8 Days Colombo Itinerary: Best Places to Visit in Colombo

Day 1 | Morning

Colombo National Museum

Opening Hours: Open from 8:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 60 LKR

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-2 Hours

Location: 854 Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 00700

The Colombo National Museum is a two-storey grand white building and the oldest museum in Sri Lanka. It was built in 1877 and a new building was built in 1980. Taking a walk here can give you a good understanding of Sri Lanka's culture and history, and it is a stop in Sri Lanka. The collections worth recommending in the museum are as follows: 1. There is a stone stele discovered in 1912 in the Zheng He Stele Museum, known as "Zheng He Stele", which was built by Zheng He, the eunuch of the Three Treasures of the Ming Dynasty, when he went to the West. The top is engraved with a relief sculpture of two dragons playing with a pearl and inscriptions in Chinese, Arabic and Tamil, mainly recording the purpose of Zheng He's visit to Sri Lanka. 2. There is also a Lion Throne shipped from Kandy in the Lion Throne Pavilion. The "Great History" records that Vijaya established the Sinhalese state and was the descendant of the lion (Siha), which is also the origin of the name Sihala for the Sinhalese. The Buddhist pilgrim (Fa-Hien) from China lived in Sri Lanka for two years around 411-413, and he called the country the "Lion Country" (Sinhala). Therefore, many artifacts related to lions can be seen in the ancient monuments of Sri Lanka. 3. There are more than 4,000 Bayeux books that record the ancient scriptures and Buddhist teachings of Sri Lanka in the Bayeux Library. The Bayeux book is a book carved from the leaves of the Bedoro tree in ancient times. It records the deeds, thoughts and scriptures of the saints. Later, people bound the words inscribed on the Bedoro leaves into a book. 4. Buddha statue and monk shoes When you walk into this premier cultural institution in Sri Lanka, a 9th century stone Buddha greets you with a mysterious smile. Among the precious cultural relics collected in the museum, there are many statues of Sakyamuni in stone and bronze, as well as many statues of Shiva in Hinduism. A pair of 9th century bronze monk shoes can also be seen. 5. There is also a magnificent crown worn by King Wimaladharma in 1693 in the Crown Pavilion. During the king's reign, he unsuccessfully attempted to regain control of the port and end the Dutch East India Company's trading franchise.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: It is very beautiful and the guides are well informed, patient and kind. It is definitely a must in Colombo.

Day 1 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Colombo National Museum, Dehiwala Zoological Garden next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Dehiwala Zoological Garden

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 1000 LKR

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-5 Hours

Location: 120 Galvihara Rd, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia,

Colombo Zoo, also known as Dehiwela Zoo (Dehiwela Zoo), located in the South City of Colombo, is the national zoo and larger zoo in Sri Lanka. It has more than 3,000 animals and 350 species from all over the world, mostly tropical animals , The garden is shady with trees and flowers blooming. 1. Abundant species There are aquariums, bird areas, reptile halls, butterfly gardens, elephant areas, etc. in the zoo. The big difference between this place and the domestic zoo is that no matter what kind of animals are rich, for example, there are 110 kinds of birds, more than 1,000. There are more than 30 species of butterflies and hundreds of them. 2. Butterfly Garden For those who love butterflies, there is a special butterfly garden here. Through the glass doors and windows, you can see the scene of the garden with shrubs and flowers. Colorful butterflies are flying among thousands of flowers, or stay in the flowers In between, it is very beautiful and unforgettable. 3. Abundant performance activities There are elephant and seal performance venues open at fixed times in the zoo. Elephant performances start at 16:30 every day, and seal performances start at 16:00 every day. In addition, tourists can also ride on elephants (which are not available in other zoos) or on horseback to see orangutans, African lions, Indian tigers, peacocks and other birds and animals and aquatic animals. The time for this activity is weekend 14: 30-16:00.

Day 1 | Evening

After visiting the glorious Dehiwala Zoological Garden, Hotel MaRadha Colombo nearby is the best place to stay.

Hotel MaRadha Colombo

The Hotel MaRadha Colombo is an ideal spot for travelers wanting to discover the city. The Hotel MaRadha Colombo is an ideal choice for travelers who want to take in the sights and sounds of Colombo.

With Bambalapitiya Railway Station just 3km away and Bandaranaike International Airport only 39km away, transportation is very convenient. Guests will find Reiki Haven, Number 11 and Amazing Sri Lanka just a short distance from the hotel.

In their spare time, guests can explore the hotel's surroundings. For those driving themselves, parking is provided on site.

According to our trusted guests, the facilities at this hotel are first-rate.

Day 2 | Morning

Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple

Opening Hours: Open from 9:00am-5:00pm

Ticket Price: 200 LKR

Recommended Length of Stay: 3-3 Hours

Location: Thimbirigasyaya Rd, Colombo 00500, Sri Lanka

Asoka Ramaya Temple is a famous Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. It is located in the South City of Colombo City. The temple is resplendent and has various statues of Buddha Sakyamuni in different postures. The Buddha statue is tall and lifelike, with vermilion and emerald green, and the color is gorgeous, which has the typical beauty of Indian art. The monastery was built to commemorate the Maurya King Ashoka (also translated as King Asoka) of India who sent his son Mahenda to Sri Lanka to promote Buddhism. Inside the temple are the footprints of Sakyamuni, covered with a glass cover, with patterns on them. In addition, the exquisite Buddhist murals reproduce the development history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, which is fascinating. There is a Bodhi tree at the back of the temple, reminiscent of the Buddha's enlightenment under the Bodhi tree in India. There are not only Buddhist pagodas in the temple, but also a variety of old-fashioned cars and old-fashioned printers on display.

Day 2 | Afternoon

Beira Lake nearby is the top choice before you leave Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple and hit the road.

Beira Lake

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: 300 LKR

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: 02 Colombo, Colombo 01200, Sri Lanka

Bella Lake is located in the northwest corner of Vihama Hardvi Park and has about 65 hectares. It is the heart of the city of Colombo. Cormorants, egrets and other birds are circling on the lake. The trees around the lake cast a strong shade. This is a popular leisure area for locals in Colombo. Tourists can go boating to visit Beira Lake. 1. Lake Bella, the island in the center of the lake, is cut into two parts by a small island, and there is a park called "Children's Park" on this small island. There are many young men and women in love on the island in the heart of the lake. 2. Water Temple There is a beautiful wooden pavilion in Bella Lake called "Water Temple", which can be accessed through a wooden passage. The Water Temple was originally a place where monks from Gamgaramaya were ordained and assembled, and now it is a meditation and meditation center.

Day 2 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Uga Residence is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Uga Residence

Offering an outdoor swimming pool, Residence by Uga Escapes is located just 900 metres from the famous Sri Lanka National Museum. Free WiFi access is available. Each air-conditioned room here will provide you with a flat-screen satellite TV, seating area with sofa and minibar. There is also a coffee machine and work desk. Featuring a shower, private bathroom comes with a hairdryer and bidet. You can enjoy city view from the room. At Residence by Uga Escapes you will find a 24-hour front desk and a garden. Other facilities offered at the property include meeting facilities, luggage storage and an ironing service. The property offers free parking. The hotel is located just 1.2 km from American Embassy and 2.4 km from the popular Khan Clock Tower. The Bandaranaike International Airport is 29 km away. The guests can enjoy their meals at the in-house restaurant and refreshing alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages at the bar. Room service is available.

Day 3 | Morning

Dutch Museum

Ticket Price: 500 LKR

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: CPP Building, Prince Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a country that has established a museum to commemorate the Dutch colonial past on its soil, and this museum, not far from the railway station, is housed in a two-story red-tiled-roofed building. It is one of the better preserved Dutch colonial buildings in Colombo. The exhibits are mainly Dutch colonial furniture and other artifacts. 1. The text and exhibits in the exhibition hall mainly include military, economic, daily life, religion and education. Those cultural relics (stone carvings, stone pillars, pottery, porcelain, textiles, etc.) that have lasted for thousands of years are actually presented in front of us without any shell protection, and can be reached at your fingertips. Among the more interesting exhibits are the city badges of all major cities in the Dutch colonial period. The badges of each city are very distinctive. When visiting other cities, tourists will see these city badges. Friends who like history can pay attention. 2. History It was originally the official residence of the Dutch governor in the 17th century and has been used as a Catholic seminary, military hospital and post office. Later it was a lovely garden, and the open-air garden inside the building is very elegant. The museum tells a lot about the history of the Dutch East India Company in Sri Lanka.

Day 3 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Independence Square & Independence Memorial Hall.

Independence Square & Independence Memorial Hall

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: 7 Independence Ave, Colombo 00700

Located on the east side of the University of Colombo, the square is an iconic cultural square and the place where Sri Lanka's independence ceremony on February 4, 1948 was held. Looking around here, the White House is faintly visible in the distance. Many young people rest and read here, which is a good place to find a comfortable and quiet place. 1. "Kandy Culture" Visit the Memorial Hall, you will see elephants, lions and patterns describing the history of Sri Lanka's Buddhism carved on the pillars. There are also 60 stone lions symbolizing the Sinhalese around the memorial hall. Each lion represents a king, reflecting the style of Kandy culture. 2. The Independence Hall in the center of the Independence Hall Square is built to imitate the hall where pilgrims were received during the Kandy Dynasty. The green lawn around the square reflects the Independence Memorial Hall, surrounded by stone lions, and there is a statue of D.S Senyonayake on the back of the Memorial Hall. 3. Shopping There is also a shopping center called Arcade. There are many brand stores in the European-style building. It is quite cost-effective when the products are discounted.

Day 3 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Independence Square & Independence Memorial Hall? The Kingsbury Colombo is one of your top choices.

The Kingsbury Colombo

Boasting spectacular views of the Indian Ocean, The Kingsbury offers elegant accommodation in the heart of Colombo. Guests can leisurely soak in the infinity pool overlooking the ocean, and make use of the 24-hour butler service.
Centrally located in Colombo, The Kingsbury Hotel is a short distance from popular attractions like the World Trade Centre and the Colombo Harbour. Bandaranaike International Airport is about 28 km away.
Elegantly designed yet spacious rooms offer oversized windows with breathtaking views of the ocean. Bright and airy, they are fitted with cable TV, a minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. Each room has an en suite marble bathroom offering Bulgari bathroom amenities.
To relax, guests can visit the hotel’s spa or work out at the well-equipped gymnasium.
Guests can dine at the hotel's multi cuisine restaurant which offers Western, Chinese, Japanese and South East Asian dishes. A seafood restaurant features an outdoor seating deck and a selection of fine wines. Light snacks, a variety of drinks and beach views are available at the Sky Lounge.

Day 4 | Morning

Bandaranaike Memorial International Convention Hall

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-2 Hours

Location: BMICH Office, Bauddhaloka Mawatha, Colombo 00700

The Bandaranaike International Conference Building is located in the heart of Colombo's Beta District. The building is a project assisted by the Chinese government in Sri Lanka free of charge. Since its completion 30 years ago, it has played an important role in the social life of Sri Lanka. The internal facilities of the entire building are relatively complete, with a 16,000-square-foot conference hall, 400 telephone lines and a newly built library showing its momentum. The building adopts an octagonal plane, with 48 snow-white marble pillars forming a veranda, large overhanging eaves, and a latticed exterior wall. It is light and cheerful, full of tropical architectural style and local characteristics. It has been put into use for more than 30 years. play an important role. In 1964, China decided to build an international conference building for Sri Lanka free of charge. Completed in May 1973, completed and put into use for more than 30 years, it has played an important role in the social life of Sri Lanka. Its status is equivalent to the Great Hall of the People in China. It is known as "a symbol of Sri Lanka-China friendship and a pearl of Sri Lanka" . In contrast, the Chinese Embassy in Sri Lanka has an obvious political status. The two buildings complement each other, symbolizing the close unity of the Chinese and Sri Lankan people.

Day 4 | Afternoon

Galle Face Green nearby is the top choice before you leave Bandaranaike Memorial International Convention Hall and hit the road.

Galle Face Green

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka

Galle Face Green Plaza is a scenic promenade in the heart of Colombo's financial and business district, stretching for half a kilometer along the coast of the Indian Ocean, a great place to watch the sunset. The surrounding business atmosphere is strong and the activities are rich. 1. Seaside scenery When you walk on this seaside avenue with the sea breeze and the sound of the waves, one side is the Indian Ocean seascape, and the other side is the modern city scenery of Colombo. In the evening, it is still a place to enjoy the sunset view. There is a slender beach under the seawall. Although it is not too clean, it is also a good place to play in the water. There is a viewing platform in the middle of the square, where you can get close contact with the sea. 2. There is a flag lowering ceremony at 6 o'clock every night in the surrounding activity square, which is very spectacular and worth seeing. In addition, there is a night market near the beach at night. You will see many barbecue stalls. Grilled fish is very surprising. All kinds of traditional Lankan food will also gather here. In addition, due to its close proximity to the Presidential Palace, the Independence Day military parade has also been held here in recent years. 3. The history of the square During the Dutch rule, it was used as a breakwater and a fortress. In 1859, the then Governor of British Ceylon opened this green space for a racecourse and golf course. Today, Galle Face Green has become a popular local leisure spot, where you can often see locals jogging, walking, kite flying, and even couples who are in love.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: the galle hotel is the best hotel to stay in this area,this is the best area in whole colombo...

Day 4 | Evening

If you want to explore other popular attractions later, Shangri-La Colombo is a suitable place for you to stay and refresh.

Shangri-La Colombo

Hotel locates in Colombo, with a beautiful view and convenient transportation. It would be a nice choice for family and friends.

Day 5 | Morning

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Opening Hours: Travelers can visit the mosque except Muslim prayer times (closed on Friday).

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: 2nd Cross Street, Colombo 01100, Sri Lanka

The Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, is located near the Beta Market. 1. The striking red mosque was built in 1908 and is one of the landmarks of Colombo. It's a red and white brick building that stands out in the bustling Beta district. It is said that in the early 20th century, many sailors to Sri Lanka used it to identify whether it was the port of Colombo. 2. Features of mosques As a Buddhist country, most of Sri Lankan residents believe in Buddhism. Among the more than 2,000 mosques in the country, the red mosque can be said to be a very distinctive one. Different from the fresh and elegant white, blue and other light-colored mosques in other places, the red mosque adopts red and white, which has obvious Indian architectural color and influence.

Day 5 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Colombo Muncipal Council next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Colombo Muncipal Council

Opening Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30-16:15, closed on Saturday and Sunday.

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: Dr, CWW Kannangara Mawatha, Colombo 00700

"The City Hall was built by the British and is a neoclassical English-style building. It has two floors in total and is currently the office of Colombo's civil servants, with pictures of great men hanging inside.

Day 5 | Evening

For convenient access to more popular attractions, Cinnamon Grand Colombo is the best places.

Cinnamon Grand Colombo

Cinnamon Grand Colombo is conveniently located in the popular Colombo Galle face Green area. Featuring a complete list of amenities, guests will find their stay at the property a comfortable one. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at the Cinnamon Grand Colombo. Guestrooms are designed to provide an optimal level of comfort with welcoming decor and some offering convenient amenities like closet, towels, carpeting, television LCD/plasma screen, sofa. Take a break from a long day and make use of hot tub, fitness center, sauna, outdoor pool, spa. Discover all Colombo has to offer by making Cinnamon Grand Colombo your base.

Day 6 | Morning

Gangaramaya Temple

Opening Hours: Open from 6:00am-10:00pm

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-3 Hours

Location: 61 Sri Jinarathana Rd, Colombo 00200, Sri Lanka

The Gangarama Temple has a history of more than 120 years. It is a collection of finely crafted buildings that incorporate the architectural features of Sri Lanka, Thailand, India and China. The entrance of the temple is quite shocking. There are two statues of Guan Gong playing with a big knife, and there is a live baby elephant next to it. 1. Rich collections The Buddha statues in the temple bring together Buddha statues from various countries in Asia. The interior space of the temple is not large. Several rooms are connected together, and various collections are displayed. There are hundreds of large and small Buddha statues. There are thousands of Buddha statues with different expressions and strange postures. In fact, before 760 AD, Sri Lanka maintained frequent trade exchanges with the Mediterranean region and China, and also sent envoys to China during the Tang Dynasty. There is a museum in the main hall, which houses several tall Buddha statues and several huge ivory, as well as Arhat relics, jewelry, coins of various countries, old-fashioned radios, watches, pure gold instruments and ivory instruments, as well as some from Japan. , Buddha statues in Thailand and other places, the Buddha statues are beautifully carved, and it is shocking to be in them. 2. Precious collections It is said that among all the collections, the most precious thing is a tuft of hair from the Buddha, which is usually locked in a safe and not seen by ordinary people.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: great experience

Day 6 | Afternoon

Now we come to another great highlight in the city: Viharamahadevi Park.

Viharamahadevi Park

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-1 Hours

Location: Colombo, Sri Lanka

To the east of the park is Colombo City Hall, to the south is the Art Gallery, and not far from the north is the Gangarama Temple. It has a beautiful environment with palm trees, big trees and green spaces, and it is a good place for locals to take a walk and exercise. 1. Beautiful environment Vihama Devi Park is a large-scale park in Colombo. The park has patches of green space, towering trees and other tropical plants, fountains, sculptures and other decorations, as well as a golden Buddha statue. Walking in this park, you can not only enjoy the fresh and elegant natural environment, but also often see local residents cycling, chatting, picnicking and even taking wedding photos here. This popular spot for locals in Colombo is not only a place to fall in love, but also a good place for family picnics on weekends. 2. The origin of the name The park was built by the British, and the park was rebuilt in 1951. Later, in honor of the mother of King Dutugemunu, the hero who regained the motherland, it was changed to its current name.

Reviews from Real Guests:

Trip.com User: very enjoyable during the daytime, not very crowded during the weekdays

Trip.com User: Its a most beautifull and peacefull place to roming :)

Day 6 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Viharamahadevi Park? Galle Face Hotel is one of your top choices.

Galle Face Hotel

Originating in 1864, Galle Face Hotel has stood proudly on the shoreline of Colombo for more than 150 years. Over the centuries, this magnificent heritage hotel has remained unchanged in her grandeur, today a national icon that represents both both Sri Lanka's colonial past and its independent present. A full refurbishment in 2015 saw Galle Face Hotel restored to full splendour, offering superlatively modern amenities coupled with timeless service.

Day 7 | Morning

Parliament of Sri Lanka

Opening Hours: Open from 9:30am-3:30pm

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Parliament Approach Rd, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, Sri Lanka

The Parliament Building, also known as the New Parliament Building, is located on an island surrounded by water in the new planning area of Colombo City, 16 kilometers east of Colombo. The surrounding water is clear and green, all kinds of flowers bloom brightly, and the scenery is beautiful.

Day 7 | Afternoon

Having the chance to enjoy the charming Parliament of Sri Lanka, Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre next to it is another great place that you will never want to miss!

Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: Nelum Pokuna Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka

This new and palatial theatre is located in the south of Vila Maha Devi Park and was built with Chinese aid. The appearance seems to have Chinese characteristics, but in fact its design is inspired by the shape of the lotus pond in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which is a new symbol of friendship between China and Sri Lanka. Officially opened on December 15, 2011, the main theater has 1,288 seats, and others include a library, an open theater, and a training center. The main theater is equipped with a lifting stage and a modern sound system. It is a relatively advanced theater in South Asia. Large-scale performances are often staged here, and the lighting is very beautiful at night.

Day 7 | Evening

Looking for a bed nearby after finishing your journey at Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre? Hilton Colombo Residence is one of your top choices.

Hilton Colombo Residence

Located in the heart of Colombo city, Hilton Colombo Residence offers rooms and suites with panoramic views of the city, harbour or Indian Ocean. Boasting an outdoor pool, it also has a fitness centre and tennis court.Spacious suites at Hilton Colombo Residence feature comfortable lounge areas with flat-screen TVs and DVD players. Modern amenities include a washing machine and ironing facilities.Enjoy private sessions with gym instructors or relax at the sauna and hot tub. Interesting day trips around Colombo are easily arranged at the tour desk. The accommodation also provides spacious meeting and banquet venues.All-day dining and buffet spreads including International cuisine are available at at Verandah Bistro & Bar. Light refreshments are offered at at the Bar & Lounge. It also offers 24-hour in-room dining service.Located within the Central Business District, Hilton Colombo Residence is a 30-minute drive from Bandaranaike International Airport.

Day 8 | Morning

Old & New Kathiresan Kovil

Ticket Price: Free

Recommended Length of Stay: 2-2 Hours

Location: 11 Sea St, Colombo 01300

The new and old Hindu temples are adjacent to each other, located in the middle of the sea street, and built for the god of war Murugan, the son of Shiva. The entrance of the temple is decorated with a large number of Hindu god statues, which are exquisite in shape. Among them, there are six blue dragons supporting the lintel above the middle entrance. There is also an elephant temple next to these two Hindu temples. After understanding the basic teachings of Hinduism, visiting this Hindu temple will be more rewarding.

Day 8 | Afternoon

When time permits after visiting Old & New Kathiresan Kovil, don’t forget pay a visit to Gangarama Seema Malakaya.

Gangarama Seema Malakaya

Opening Hours: Open 24 hours

Recommended Length of Stay: 1-2 Hours

Location: WV83+QR3, Sir James Pieris Mawatha, Colombo

The Water Temple is in the middle of Beira Lake. It is a beautiful wooden pavilion that can be accessed through a wooden passage. 1. Designer Geoffrey Bawa (Geoffrey Bawa) Water Temple was designed by the famous architect Geoffrey Bawa in the 20th century. Jeffrey Bawa's design career began in 1957 and ended in 2003. The buildings he designed at different stages of his design career were greatly influenced by the Sri Lankan economy, and his design concepts contributed greatly to "regional modernism". 2. Beira Lake Beira Lake is located in the northwest corner of Vihama Ha Devi Park. It is the heart of Colombo. There are cormorants, egrets and other birds circling on the lake. A favorite recreation area for locals.

* All reviews in the blog are machine-translated.