10 Best Places to Visit in Colombo in January 2024
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Best Places to visit in Colombo in January 

1. Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple
2. Pettah Floating Market
3. Dutch Period Museum
4. Wolvendaal Church
5. Old Parliament Building
6. Gangaramaya Temple
7. Galle Face Green
8. Viharamahadevi Park
9. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
10. Mount Lavinia Beach 

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s lively capital, is a city where history and modernity collide in the most fascinating ways. With a population of over 5.6 million, Colombo is the economic and cultural heart of the island. Colombo in January enjoys warm, dry weather with daytime temperatures averaging around 30°C, making it perfect for exploring its diverse attractions without the interruption of rain.

Stroll along Galle Face Green at sunset, where you can enjoy local street food and the cooling ocean breeze. January also marks the beginning of cultural festivities, such as the Colombo Street Food Festival, where you can savour authentic Sri Lankan dishes. The city’s spiritual side is reflected in landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple and the Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil. Sri Lanka tour packages often include these highlights, ensuring you capture the essence of this dynamic city during your visit.

Here are some of the best places to visit in Colombo

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01

Why visit Colombo In January?

Colombo in January offers an ideal mix of warm weather, cultural events, and diverse attractions. With temperatures around 30°C, it is the perfect time for outdoor activities and exploring the city’s rich heritage. The dry season ensures minimal rainfall, allowing uninterrupted sightseeing. January also marks the start of cultural festivities, where you can experience local traditions, music, and food.

Visit landmarks like Galle Face Green and Gangaramaya Temple, and do not miss the Colombo Street Food Festival for a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Colombo in January promises a vibrant and memorable experience.

Also Explore & Book: Srilanka Tour Package For Couple

Essential Information

02

What to Pack for Colombo in January?

For your trip to Colombo in January, pack light, breathable clothing like cotton shirts and shorts, as the weather is warm and humid. A good sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses are essential for protection against the strong sun. Do not forget your essential gadgets, including a mobile phone, charger, and power bank.

Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and your travel documents, like passports and visas, safely. It is wise to keep cash to a minimum and stay aware of pickpockets. A light jacket might be useful for cooler evenings near the coast.

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03

Colombo Weather In January

Colombo in January offers warm and comfortable weather, perfect for exploring the city. Expect daytime temperatures to reach around 30°C, with nights cooling to about 21°C. The humidity is low, and rainfall is minimal, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

With around eight hours of sunshine daily, you will have plenty of time to visit Colombo’s attractions. Remember to pack sunscreen and light clothing to stay cool. Colombo weather in January is ideal for a relaxed and enjoyable visit.

Also Read: 
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Places to visit in Colombo in January

04

Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple

The Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple is one of the most significant places to visit in Colombo in January. As the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Colombo, it stands as a vibrant testament to the city’s rich cultural and spiritual history. The temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ganesha, is adorned with intricately painted sculptures that capture the eye.

January is an ideal time to explore the temple's grounds, as the weather is comfortable for wandering through the sacred spaces. You can experience the serene atmosphere, filled with the sounds of chanting and ringing bells, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustling city.

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05

Pettah Floating Market

The Pettah Floating Market is a must-see destination in Colombo, offering a unique blend of shopping and cultural experiences. Located on Beira Lake, this vibrant market is a popular spot among locals and tourists alike. Here, you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to handcrafted goods and clothing. The market’s design reflects a traditional floating market, creating a picturesque setting that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll.

You can enjoy local street food while soaking in the lively atmosphere of the market. The Pettah Floating Market also emphasises sustainability, showcasing eco-friendly products and supporting local artisans.

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06

Dutch Period Museum

The Dutch Period Museum is one of the top places to visit in Colombo in January, especially for history enthusiasts. Housed in a well-preserved Dutch colonial mansion, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. The museum showcases an impressive collection of artefacts from the 17th and 18th centuries, including furniture, ceramics, and art that highlight the Dutch influence on the island.

Walking through the museum’s exhibits, you will learn about the architectural styles, trade practices, and cultural exchanges that shaped this period.

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07

Wolvendaal Church

Wolvendaal Church, one of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka, is a significant landmark in Colombo. Built by the Dutch in the 18th century, the church is a fine example of colonial architecture, with its simple yet elegant design. January is a great time to visit Wolvendaal Church, as the weather is mild, allowing you to appreciate its peaceful atmosphere.

 The interior of the church is beautifully preserved, featuring intricately carved wooden pews, stained glass windows, and a majestic altar. Surrounding the church is a cemetery where many notable figures from Sri Lanka’s colonial past are buried, adding a layer of historical significance to your visit.

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08

Old Parliament Building

The Old Parliament Building is an architectural gem and one of the most iconic places to visit in Colombo in January. Situated along the city’s waterfront, this neoclassical structure served as the seat of Sri Lanka’s Parliament until 1983. Its grand design, featuring imposing columns and detailed stonework, reflects the colonial history of the country.

Although it no longer hosts parliamentary sessions, the Old Parliament Building remains a symbol of Sri Lanka’s political heritage. You can take guided tours to learn about the building’s historical significance and its role in shaping the nation’s governance.

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Gangaramaya Temple is not only one of the most beautiful but also one of the most iconic Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka. It is more than a century since this temple was constructed; however even today, the temple doesn’t stop to surprise tourists and devotees. The pathways and doors that lead into the main sanctum sanctorum contain intricately carved sculptures that are simply breath-taking.

Highlights: The ceilings and walls contain pictures and miniature paintings that explain stories from Buddhism religion. In the main sanctorum, a huge Buddha statue exudes a brilliant sense of calmness in the devotees. Built in a mix of various architectural styles including India, Burmese, Thai and Chinese, this temple also houses a museum.



Location: The temple is located right on the Jinaratana Road in the heart of Colombo city.

Timings: The temple is open from 5.30AM to 10PM.

Price: Entry fee is LKR200 per adult.
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Galle face green, a mesmerizing destination with a magnificent coast, it is one of the most admired grounds in the world. Found in Colombo, the Galle face green park is spread across an enormous area of more than 12 acres.

Running alongside the picturesque costs, the park is celebrated among various tourists as an extraordinary spot to relish upon a number of activities including gazing at the mesmerizing sunset, enjoying delicious street food, picnics, taking a tour of the ancient Galle Fort, kite flying, volleyball, and many more adventures.

The origin story of this enigmatic urban park goes way back to the 18th century. It was Sir Henry Ward, Governor of the British Ceylon who had first proposed the notion of constructing this park. The park is now a go to spot for tens of hundreds of localities and international tourists for various recreational activities.

From delicious delicacies of Srilanka to multitudes of beach adventures, visitors are found here having a time of their lives. What makes the place even more special is it's fun ambiance that allows even the little ones to open their wings and fly.

In other words, it doesn't matter if you are a sports fanatic looking to indulge in some thrills or a food fanatic craving for some flavorful munchies, you will find everything here at the Galle face green. Additionally,  some of the most prominent events including hosting the largest artificial Christmas Tree in the world during Christmas are held on this ground. 

All in all, a fun place to delight upon the beautiful landscape, indulge in some adventures with friends and family and savoring a few delicious street foods, Galle face green can quite simply be your next weekend destination.
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In Colombo’s heart, Viharamahadevi Park is home to a spectacular display of green space and recreational environment. The locals as well as tourists, are attracted to the park for its clean, bright and cheerful ambience. Whether you are out with your friends and family or with your spouse, Viharamahadevi Park is a perfect leisure space for you.

People are often found basking under the sun, enjoying picnics and appreciating the light breeze. The Park boasts of a well maintained and alluring landscape. Every corner of the park is perfect for photographs. Spring season, showers the garden with colourful, fragrant blossoms.

Your eyes will find pleasure in the tall palms canopying the walkways, soft green grass spread across the area and beautiful fountains conspiring with the sun to create charming rainbows. Sri Lanka’s Buddhist faith is marked by the presence of a huge gold-toned, brass, Buddha statue, facing the Colombo Town Hall, which is surrounded by fountains and lotus ponds.

The Cenotaph War Memorial is set up in the park premises to honour the martyrs of WWI and WWII. A popular spot among tourists is the lake where visitors can have a boat ride and experience the wobbly suspension bridge. If children accompany you, take them to the play area for a fun time or give them a pony ride of the park.

The park’s mini aquarium has a display of local fish, turtles and lobsters. Several food stalls selling cotton candy, ice cream and local snacks are set up all across the park. At night, the park presents a dreamy aura with lit up pathways, fountains and buildings. Viharamahadevi Park is a central location for several city events like Vesak Poya, Navam Perahera etc. During this time the city gathers for a celebration here.
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Also known as the Kelaniya Temple, Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is a Buddhist temple which is situated seven miles from Colombo. This temple is well known for its magnificent sculptor’s art. Kelaniya Temple was built on the bank Kelaniya River which is believed to be one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka.

This temple was built in the era prior to the chronologically recorded history of Sir Lanka (since 543 B.C). The ancient temple was destroyed by a lot of invaders but was reconstructed again.

Highlights: The best feature of the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara is its amazing architecture which has grabbed the attention of lot of tourist around the world. There is a vaulted grill that opens upto the lower patio of the temple yard. The lower patios lead four sets of flights in four directions to the Upper patio where you can see the image of Hose, Dagaba and the Bo Tree (Peepal tree) with other buildings.

Location: The temple is located at Kelaniya, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Price: The entry is free of cost.
Read more
Mount Lavinia is a heritage hotel, which was predominantly a huge place during 1806. There are various ocean view rooms up for taking here, provided you book early. During special festivals and peak tourist seasons, the heritage hotel offers great deals for the benefit of tourists.



Location:
 With a spending view of the Laccadive Sea, Mount Lavinia offers luxurious services and facilities for its guests. It is located in close vicinity to the National Zoological Gardens. 

Highlights: Sunset deals, wedding packages, national holiday deals, offers on cards of certain banks etc. are some of the promotional offers advertised by Mount Lavinia throughout the year.

Timings: The hotel is open all through the year. It also has a children’s park, where children are treated to a variety of outdoor sports till 4PM.

Price: 
Approximate price starts from 1000 LKR
Read more

People Also Ask About Colombo

  1. Is January a good time to visit Colombo?

    Yes, January is an excellent time to visit Colombo. The weather in Colombo in January is warm and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. With minimal rainfall and pleasant temperatures, you can comfortably explore the city's attractions and enjoy its vibrant culture during this month.
  2. Do Indians need a visa for Sri Lanka?

    Yes, Indian citizens need a visa to visit Sri Lanka, but there is a special provision in place for tourists. From May 2024 onwards, Indian tourists can enter Sri Lanka visa-free under a pilot project. However, they must still obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online before arrival. The ETA allows for a stay of up to 30 days with double entry.
  3. Is Colombo expensive to visit?

    No, Colombo is not overly expensive to visit. While some attractions and accommodations can be pricey, there are plenty of affordable options. The city offers many free things to do, such as exploring temples, strolling through markets, and visiting public parks, making it possible to enjoy Colombo on a budget.
  4. What are the best things to do in Colombo?

    The best things to do in Colombo include visiting the historic Gangaramaya Temple, exploring the vibrant Pettah Market, and strolling along Galle Face Green at sunset. You can also tour the National Museum, relax at Viharamahadevi Park, and experience the local cuisine at street food stalls and restaurants.
  5. How many days are enough for Colombo?

    Three to four days are enough to explore Colombo. This timeframe allows you to visit key attractions like Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market, and the National Museum, as well as enjoy the city's vibrant food scene. It also gives you time to relax at Galle Face Green and explore local markets.
  6. What are the best day and night tour packages you can book with Thrillophilia?

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