Joanna James
Colombo is one of the most vibrant of Asian cities. The best part is you can enjoy all modern comforts and still explore colonial splendours, experience the hodge podge of busy Asian streets, savour the local culture and have a fabulous holiday. Here are the best things to do in Colombo.
Geoffrey Bawa is an iconic name in Sri Lanka, the late talented architect has left his mark on several unique and beguiling complexes across the island. Renowned locally and internationally the artist's home in Colombo is not to be missed. The most prominent exhibit of his work; house Number 11 is located on Bagathale Road in Colombo and is an ode to the master architect's talent. Go there to be awed and to enjoy the cool interiors which have the power to make you feel relaxed no matter how hot and dusty the streets of Colombo seem. Visit the website at www.geoffreybawa.com to learn more. The place is a short commute from the best hotels in Colombo, which means you can hail a tuk-tuk from your city hotel and get there in a few minutes. Popular places like Mandarina Colombo are close to most top attractions in Colombo.
If you want an authentic experience of Sri Lanka's markets do visit the Pettah Market. This too is an easy commute from your Colombo city hotel and you will either love it or hate it. Either way experiencing the place is a must. This market is a real slice of Colombo's alternate dimension, so to say, because it is a far cry from the posh malls surrounding your hotel. Pettah Market is a riot of sellers and commuters all on busy schedules. Go there to watch the bargaining, and get pushed around by the jostling crowds, to see the variety of local fruits and vegetables for sale, to watch the beetle sellers expertly wrap up a concoction of beetle leaves, tobacco leaves and chunam. And most of all to see how old-fashioned trade takes place in Sri Lanka. This is not a market to shop for souvenirs, instead, it is an experience you will want to add to your holiday. As always visit the place with care, be aware of your personal belongings and trust no strangers. Simply savour the adventure.
Built in 1917 the vintage charms of the Fort Railway Station are impressive. A very busy precinct the station is a hub for catching trains to all parts of the island. The best in cheap travel, trains ply daily from the Fort Railway Station. Visit the place earlier than the time your train leaves if you want to explore the complex and its historical charms.
The Jami Ul Alfar mosque was built in 1909 and certainly lives up to its name. You can get a good glimpse of the mosque from Second Cross Street in Pettah as it sits within the same area as the Pettah Market. While the topic of whether women are allowed inside the mosque is being debated you can enjoy the exterior view of the exotic building just as well.
The oldest Dutch church on the island, Wolvendaal was constructed in 1757, the typical Dutch style architecture is impressive yet simple. A testament to the island divers and rich history this church stands a few minutes from the Red Mosque and is also neighbours with the Hindu Kathiresan Kovil which you can visit as a part of your tour to discover the diverse cultures of Sri Lanka.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
