
The tallest skyscraper of Sri Lanka- Colombo Lotus tower is also known as “Nelum Kuluna” in Sinhala. Colombo lotus tower is one of the most famous tourist sites in the town of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Standing at a height of 356 meters this tower is the tallest tower in South Asia, 11th tallest tower in Asia and 19th tallest tower in the world. It has become one of the major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka and popular among tourists.
If you plan on visiting the country then this tower is a must-visit. It basically serves as a transmission tower for tv and radio. Besides being a transmission and communicating tower it also serves various leisure activities. There are banquet halls, shopping malls, hotels with suites, restaurants, museums, auditoriums and much more for the tourist to explore in the tower. There is a revolving restaurant at the top which provides a scenic view of the city. It completes one rotation every 90 minutes. This tower is one of the biggest highlights of Colombo and due to its enormous length, it can be seen from as far as 10kms from the main site. Approximately 50 television and radio broadcasters can be accommodated in the tower, along with 20 telecommunication providers.
Lotus tower can attract more than thousands of tourists every day. It is open 24 hours and 365 days of the year for the tourists. On special festivals such as Pongal, Diwali, Eid, Christmas and many more the interiors of the tower are decorated accordingly. This tower is surely a gem in the busy city of Colombo and must not be missed if you are planning to tour this beautiful city.

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.

Housed in a two-storied building, the museum has a big, well-maintained, lush green lawn right in front that is shaded by mighty banyan trees, which adds to the beauty of the place. As you enter the museum, you shall also find a fourth-century Buddha smiling at you in the lobby. Going forward, you will be mesmerized to find the collections in the museum.
The galleries are as old as 1877, and you shall find all sorts of ancient art, carvings, and statues from Sri Lanka’s past along with a collection of antique demon masks. You can also find guns, swords, and other things from the colonial times. If you love art, you are totally in for a treat as the gallery also has in display 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka.
On display are the royal throne made for King Wimaladharmasuriya II in 1693, the 9th-century bronze Bodhisattva Sandals, and much more. And that is not all. There are agricultural displays and many more things that are sure to grab your attention and leave a mark in your memories.
Colombo Fort

Colombo Fort is the cultural, financial and economic hub of the city and is home to many important buildings and offices. It is the supreme business district of Srilanka and is home to the Stock Exchange building and the World Trade Centre, which is the tallest building in the country.
The area is a very dynamic area as it not only facilitates trade and business in its lanes but also has some of the finest food stalls, tourist places, casinos and bars. Colombo Fort also has the popular Galle Face Green Promenade which is sea-facing ground built-in 1859.
It is one of the finest and most popular places in the city. In the yesteryears, the area was home to the biggest palace in Sri Lanka which was demolished and repaired from the Dutch-era to the Portuguese-era. Till date, the remains of the palace are in existence like the Bastin Dan Briel, Battenburg Batteries, etc. Colombo Fort is also home to the official residence of the President of Sri Lanka and other important Ministers.
The fort area also has the Consulate of Spain, Seychelles, Latvia, Denmark and Lithuania. Colombo Fort is the ultimate place to enjoy the original vibe of the Island nation and embrace the rich culture of the country through its food and various other things and activities.

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.
Dehiwala Zoo

The place is a flourishing landscape that is housing over 2,500 splendid animals, birds, butterflies, reptiles, amphibians and much more. The distinct species does not limit to the ones found in Sri Lanka but there are animals from various other countries too. Not only the fauna, but the tropical flora of the zoo is also renowned for its diversity among its visitors.
The visitors can experience the variety of the species kept in the zoo along with close interaction with the various harmless birds and mammals. They also get to witness the lifecycle of various animals and insects along with the breeding and symbolic patterns of butterflies and fish. Also, the two of the most popular activities of the zoo, elephant dance & show and the other being the night safari is a must-to-do.
The soothing green flora and dense wood patches in the zoo make it even more appealing to the tourists. Also, one can unwind themselves in the butterfly garden where they could witness the colorful myriad of butterflies fluttering over their heads. You must take help from the zoo map in order to not miss any part of the sprawling zoo.
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.
Beira Lake

Offering spectacular views, high rising buildings stand crystal clear on the horizon to give the lake a dimension. Everything in and around the lake sums up to become a eye-candy masterpiece of Colombo. It offers a full package of fool-proof fun which can cover the areas of adventure, pilgrimage, picnic, boat ride and ample serene time with yourself.
It is a place which welcomes people of every age with a warm heart. Children can come here in the excitement of having a family picnic whereas teens can get jolly with the thought of capturing a number of pictures. Adults can also enjoy some alone time during the famous boat ride, however the alderlies will not miss the nearby Budhha temple.
Don’t worry! Now there are no crocodiles but several other species of flora and fauna. You can easily spot egrets, storks, cormorants, pelicans, monitor lizards, and a variety of fish in and around the lake. Along with that there are several places inside the lake premises which you would be interested in visiting.
Also, the lake is surrounded with various important attractions of Colombo which are must to be explored by tourists from foreign places and locals alike. You can visit the lake anytime between 07:00 am to 06:00 pm and cover all the places in its proximity.

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.

This hatchery in Galle has outer walls covered with themed murals portraying vibrantly coloured turtles. Inside, you will find a series of turtle preservation tanks. Every tank is accompanied with a precautionary sign board for visitors. The tourists visiting the hatchery are regularly guided through a live demonstration of depicting the entire life-cycle of sea turtles and their conservation period. The place functions as daycare for all those newborn sea turtles who opened their eyes here for the very first time. The hatchery homes to several small water tanks for protecting these newly born sea turtles.
Gradually, five different varieties of Sea Turtles are found here at the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Sri Lanka – Olive Ridley, Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, and Leatherhead Turtle. All the injured sea turtles are protected within a separate tank, which is specially reserved for their protection. Every member working here at the Galle Sea Turtle Hatchery is trained with the basics of helping all the sea turtles who are in thorough need of medical assistance or all those who are pregnant.
Seema Malaka

Standing tall along the banks of Beira Lake, Seema Malaka forms a part of the southern region of the Colombo City of Sri Lanka. It lies in conjunction with the Gangaramaya Temple, which is the main shrine there. Residing on three man-made podiums, Seema Malaka Temple stands unrivaled in both its location and architecture. The architectural allure of this temple is highly inspired from the ancient forest monasteries Ritigala and Anuradhapura. The building of the temple is built in the Kandyan style and is characterized by its hanging blue tiled roofs. There is a pontoon boardwalk that links the premises of the Seema Malaka temple with its mainland. The outer boundary wall of this shrine is adorned by numerous Buddha statues representing different sitting postures.
There are three raised platforms which divide the temple and are connected with the walkways. The four-sided blue roof on the central platform of this temple is quite evident. On the very next platform, you have a statue of the Treasury of Truth which has got its own significance. This platform at the Seema Malaka temple is actually a treasure of ancient Buddhist texts, which is usually stored in locked conditions and is accessible only to the monks.
There are beautiful wooden panels embracing the décor of the central building of this shrine - where people reach out for meditation. In case you have any queries, you may approach the caretakers there. The outer area surrounding this room features several Buddha statues. If you keenly observe them – some of them have their hands placed on their lap, while others are portrayed yogic postures.
At the next platform, you have a Bodhi tree in the central portion, which is all over flanked with several Buddha statues. On special occasions, you can mark the presence of numerous Locals here to venerate the Bodhi tree. Apart from all these, the four corners of the Seema Malaka temple, you also have shrines which are entirely dedicated to the Gods of Hindu religions – Ganesha and Shiva.

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

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Location: The place is located at Prince Street in the city
Highlights: The museum contains two floors and it houses around 3000 personal collections of Dutch rulers who reigned over the place. This place was converted into a public museum during 1977, thanks to the able support rendered by the Government of Netherlands.
Timings: The museum is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from Tuesday to Saturday.
Mgm Colombo

Replete with the usual casino and other table games, MGM Colombo is quite a famous gaming joint in the city. It is smaller than Bally’s or Bellagio; however, it is quite famous among its guests for the services and hospitality that it offers. While the regular players occupy the ground floor, the first floor is taken by players looking for privacy.
Highlights: There is a dedicated floor for VIPs here as well. Music bands and cultural dance performances from international artists are performed every day at this joint.
Location: In the remote outskirts of Colombo.
Special features: The cuisine is a mix of Asian and international in order to cater to the taste buds of foreign nationals who come here in plenty. Some of the table games that are highly popular here are Roulette, Baccarat, Poker, Mini Flush and Texas Hold’em. The minimum stakes at this casino are highly affordable.
Timings: Open 24/7.

Highlights: It is probably the first casino in the city to have floors dedicated to particular section of players. There are 4 floors, out of which one is exclusively dedicated to important personalities, one for groups travellers, one for private parties and one in the ground floor for regular card and roulette sessions.
Location: It got its name from its location, the Marine Drive in Colombo.
Special features: Casino Marina provides a splendid view of the Indian Ocean and has been routed as the biggest entertainment gaming spot in Colombo. It is a paradise for gaming enthusiasts as they are treated to unlimited and high-quality complementary food and drinks during all times of the day at their tables.
Timings: Open 24/7.

Highlights: There are totally 16 table games (6 baccarat, 6 black jack and 4 roulette tables) at this place.
Location: Galle Face Terrace.
Special features: The casino witnesses a healthy mix of local and foreign tourists. The choice of games that this casino houses and the customer service of the place is highly lauded by people who come here regularly. Entry is free into the Ritz Club Casino. During the evening hours, this place is occupied by a diverse mix of people who engage in their regular banter with complementary food and beverages. It is one of those of places that provide you the much-needed rejuvenation after a hard day’s work at office. The ambience of the club goes up several notches higher, thanks to its highly courteous staff.
Timings: 24/7

Highlights: Biggest casino in Colombo.
Location: Right at the back of Colombo Fort station.
Special features: Bally’s treats its guests with complementary drinks and snacks. Its restaurant section provides international breakfast, lunch and dinner options. Members can choose from various packages (Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Diamond and Infinity) as per their budget constraints. In these packages, the minimum checking amount starts from $4000 and the maximum goes up to $100,000. Members can also get themselves rejuvenated at the spa at Bally’s. All members who opt for these packages get complementary air transfers, food, five-star hotel accommodation and free local commute from Bally’s to their hotels.
Timings: Bally’s is open 24/7 on all days except Poya (Full Moon day).

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

Highlights: One of the major highlights of this casino is that it is mostly visited by foreign tourists. There are hardly any natives found here. However, the hotel-cum-casino, upholds strong Sri Lankan values when it comes to the attire of its staff and management of table behaviour.
Location: Galle Road.
Special features: People enjoy this chilled-out yet professionally strict place as they know that they can enjoy their game in peace here. Due to its large number of international visitors, the hotel manages to churn quite a large variety of tasty, international cuisine. Today, the Continental Club is known as much for its food as much as it is known for its casinos.
Timings: Open 24/7.

Highlights: Bellagio is owned by the same group that owns Bally’s and MGM casinos. The only difference is that that Bellagio caters to middle-class visitors. It has been named as the leading nightlife gaming joint in Colombo by its guests. Some of the table games offered are Asia Poker, Roulette, Slot, Black Jack, Baccarat and Three Card Poker.
Location: Located on the shopper’s paradise of Duplicate Road.
Special features: During important festivals, many events and promotions take place here. These events witness performances from global artists that keep their members enthralled. Silver, Gold and Platinum membership cards are available at Bellagio for guests. Members are eligible for free airport transfers, accommodations in 4 star hotels and unlimited food and beverages from partner restaurants and hotels.
Timings: Open 24/7.

Highlights: Although, it’s quite ironic to its name but a visit to the Tsunami hotel is a must which serves some of the best rice and curries. If you are a nature lover you can also check out the nearby Kumana National Park which will be equally exciting.
Getting There: The easiest way to reach the Arugam Bay is to take a can from the airport.

Highlights: You can get to the lighthouse after 5PM to enjoy the best view of sunset. This place is considered to be the best when it comes to viewing sunset. If you are a person who wants to have a quiet little time to yourself, this is the apt place for you.
Location: In close vicinity to the famous sea face of Colombo, the Galle Face Green.
Timings: The place is open all through the year.
Price: Entry is free of cost here.

Highlights: A large number of water monitors, butterflies, insects and other birds tend to catch your attention as you walk through the muddy paths of the sanctuary. The biodiversity of this place is highly commendable, as you cannot help but feel awe-struck at the diverse species of birds here. As the place is replete with mosquitoes, you need to be fully covered while visiting the park.
Location: The sanctuary is located at Boralesgamuwa in Colombo.
Timings: The sanctuary is open all through the day; however early mornings and evenings are best to visit migratory birds.
Best Season to Visit: You must visit this place during the months between December and January, as this is the peak season for migratory birds to seek protection here.
Price: Entry to the place is free of cost.

Location: The hall can be found on Main Street in Colombo amidst various famous tourist spots.
Highlights: There are a few attendants working in the hall, who will gladly take you around the building, provided you tip them a reasonable amount of money. The hall is literally a treasure island that contains old government equipment, transport machinery and other council chambers that were present during the earlier times.
Timings: The place is open from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM ll days of the week except Sundays.

Highlights: When you come here, you ought to visit the Independence Memorial Museum as well, which honours the people who fought for Sri Lankan Independence. Currently, this hall is the venue where Independence Day celebrations and other national events are being held. Prior to the construction of the Sri Lankan Parliament, this memorial Hall served as the ceremonial assembly as well. This place currently caters to the needs of fitness enthusiasts as the open spaces here are used for jogging, cycling, public gym, aerobic sessions and other relevant activities.
Location: The hall is located in Cinnamon Gardens and was formerly known as Torrington Square.
Timings: This hall is open all through the year.
Price: Entry into the hall is free of cost.

Highlights: Games like Roulette, Baccarat, Black Jack, Rummy, Caribbean Stud Poker and Casino War are the hot favourites here.
Location: Carlwill Palace.
Special features: The restaurant and bar at this place is highly regarded by guests coming here, simply because of the quality of food and drinks that are available at this joint. If you are a person looking to party, have fun and spend quality time with friends, Stardust Colombo is a place where you have to be. Its location is situated so strategically that it can be reached from any corner of Colombo easily. Guests are taken care of with high respect by the casino staff and their privacy is a well-guarded affair here. This is probably one of the main reasons for the presence of a large number of international guests here.
Timings: It is open on all the days of the week from 7PM to 1AM.