Culture, History & Nature; Experience The Best Of Sri Lanka In Colombo

Sri Lanka is a land of wonders and throughout history, travellers have marvelled at the beauty of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. If you’ve visited the island before you’d know that the elements that set this country apart from others are its interesting culture, rich history and indescribable natural beauty. However, one aspect of Sri Lanka that most travellers tend to overlook is the commercial capital of Colombo. Culture, history and nature come together in this vibrant coastal city, so it should definitely be on your list of places to visit around the country. Here are some of the highlights which you should drop by.

Culture 

Gangaramaya Temple & Seema Malakaya Shrine

The temple was constructed in the 19th century and since then it has become Colombo’s most prominent Buddhist temple and is found in the heart of the city. As well as being a place of worship Gangaramaya is also a centre for learning Buddhism and even holds a small museum within its grounds. A short walk from the temple you’ll find the Seema Malakaya Shrine and Meditation Pavilion. This shrine sits on the Beira Lake and was designed by the celebrated architect Geoffrey Bawa, father of Tropical Modernism. It’s extremely beautiful during sunset. 

The Street Food

Sri Lankan food is as fantastic as the country itself. The country’s local cuisine draws tastes from all the different religious and ethnic groups that coexist in Sri Lanka. One of the most popular street food dishes is Kottu Roti; a shredded crispy roti which is then stir-fried with different vegetables and served with a curry. Another dish which you must try is Isso Vadai, a prawn and maize patty of sorts, try this from one of the vendors at Galle Face Green. 

 History

The Colombo National Museum

Founded in 1877 by the Governor of British Ceylon, the Colombo National Museum is Sri Lanka’s largest museum. The museum is sprawled across a lush green garden and is shrouded by centuries-old banyan trees. In the museum, you’ll get to see artefacts belonging to the country’s indigenous people, the Veddas, relics from the colonial era and even the skeleton of a blue whale! Despite all these interesting artefacts, the most exciting display is undoubtedly the throne and crown jewels of King Sri Vikrama Rajasingha, the last monarch of Sri Lanka. 

Independence Memorial Hall

A 10-minute walk south from the museum will take you to Independence Square- also known as Independence Memorial Hall. The hall was built on the site where Sri Lanka’s declaration of independence was signed in 1948. The architecture of the hall draws inspiration from traditional Kandyan architecture and the hall is surrounded by numerous statues of lions which represent the Sri Lankan people. 

Nature 

Attidiya Forest Wetlands 

The Attidiya Forest Wetlands are found in the suburbs of Colombo close to the country’s parliament. This marshland is a lovely green space amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. Due to its waterways and mangrove forest, the wetlands are deemed as a biodiversity hotspot and houses exotic fauna like crocodiles, fishing cats and an innumerable variety of birds.

Galle Face Beach

Galle Face Beach is situated in the heart of Colombo’s financial district near the fort area. The area is quickly developing with skyscrapers coming up at a fast rate, but the beauty of Colombo is that along with being a commercial hub it has managed to retain that laid back beach vibe. Even though you probably won’t be able to swim in Galle Face Beach, do watch the sunset from Galle Face Green with many colourful kites flying in the sky. 

You should definitely not miss visiting Colombo when you’re in Sri Lanka. If you're spending a day in Colombo, embark on Colombo Day Tour by Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka to ensure you don't miss out on the best of the city.