Colombo
Red Mosque
Amidst the noise stands the serene Red Mosque built in 1908 by Indian Muslims. The distinctive red and white pallet building is reminiscent of the Indian mughal architecture. It is a place of worship for nearly hundreds of Muslims everyday. By the way, don't forget to enjoy a drink from the king coconut seller around the corner and taste some of the bombay sweets in 2nd cross street.P.S. Don't get lost in the crowd.
Dutch Museum
Built in the 17th century, the Dutch Museum is a serene architecture in the bustling streets of the Pettah Market. A former official residence of Governor of Dutch Ceylon Thomas van Rhee, stands a testament for the Dutch Occupation of Sri Lanka. The archaic columns, roofs and floors of the museum would take you indefinitely to the 17th Century.
Galle Face Green
A place for family, kites and Sri Lankan street food. Located in the heart of Colombo, Galle Face Green gives you a splendid view of the sunset in the Indian Ocean. Galle Face Green is also in close proximity to some of best hotels in Sri Lanka. Have a chat with friendly Sri Lankans while biting through that delicious Isso Wade.
Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya is a temple cum museum located in the heart of Colombo. It contains statues and artifacts dating back to a 1000 years. It is a mix of modern Sri Lankan, Thai and Chinese architecture with a mix of Hindu mythological figures.
Old Colombo Lighthouse
Built during the British reign of Sri Lanka. This non-operational, neo-classical lighthouse is now a renovated clocktower near Chatham Street. The clock mechanism in the tower was originally made by the famous English clock manufacturers, Dent (who also happened to have manufactured the “Big Ben” clock mechanism) in the year 1852. Later the clock was replaced in the year 1913 by the British. You would definitely visit there if you wanted to exchange some dollars.
National Museum of Colombo
Holding some of the most important artefacts, the National Museum of Colombo is one of the largest Museums in Sri Lanka. The main museum showcases the ancient historical relics from Kandyan and Anuradhapura Kingdoms. The natural history museum within the main museum showcases taxidermy, plants and some historical engineering technologies. For $10 entrance fee (kids get a 50% discount!), it is an opportunity you shouldn’t miss.
Pettah Market
Complex cross roads, crowded and noisy! Pettah is one of the largest markets in Sri Lanka. The place is filled with electronics, textiles, stationery, fruits, garments and many more. You could get anything you want if you look in the right place. Although Pettah market is a complete chaos in the eyes of the new comers, the market is neatly divided into streets by the goods sold. You get clothes, shoes and bags in the Front street. Toys in the Prince street. Leather goods in the Front and Main Street.
Viharamahadevi Park
Viharamahadevi Park was built during the British colonial rule and named Victoria Park, later it was renamed to Viharamahadevi. The park is located close to the National Museum of Colombo and opposite the classic Colombo Town Hall building. The park features a mini zoo and children's play area.It is the ideal place to relax after your trip to the museum.
Dehiwala Zoological Garden
One of the oldest Zoos in the Asian region. It consists of nearly 300 species in 10 hectares of land. The zoo existed as a place for king’s exotic animals before the British rule. However, it was later changed into a zoo during the British rule. The zoo is filled with aquatic animals, reptiles, birds, butterflies, monkey’s and more. The place becomes alive with the Elephant dance show in the mornings and evenings. If want to see Sri Lankan elephants at your hands distance. This is the best place.
