Colombo is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city, and for most visitors it’s the first and last stop of a trip. Its mix of colonial architecture, modern towers, markets and a long seafront promenade make it worth a day or two either side of your tour.
A short history
Colombo has been a port and trading post for over a thousand years, visited by Arab, Chinese and later European traders drawn by the island’s spices. The Portuguese, Dutch and British each held the city in turn, and when the British made it their colonial capital in 1815 Colombo grew into the administrative and commercial hub it remains today. Sri Lanka’s official administrative capital later moved to nearby Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, but Colombo stayed the country’s economic centre, and that layered history is still visible in its mix of colonial buildings, mosques, temples, churches and modern skyscrapers.
Getting there
Colombo is home to Bandaranaike International Airport, so almost every Sri Lanka trip starts and ends here. The city itself is roughly 30 minutes to an hour from the airport depending on traffic, and about three to four hours by road from Kandy or Sigiriya.
Things to do in Colombo
- Walk along the Galle Face Green seafront promenade at sunset.
- Visit the Gangaramaya Temple and the nearby Seema Malaka temple on Beira Lake.
- Explore the Pettah markets for spices, fabrics and street life.
- See the National Museum and the colonial buildings of the Fort area.
- Try Sri Lankan food in the city’s restaurants and street stalls.
When to visit Colombo
Colombo can be visited year-round. It is hot and humid, so plan outdoor sights for the morning or late afternoon.
Colombo FAQ
How many days do I need in Colombo?
A day or two is enough for the main sights. Most visitors pair it with their arrival or departure day.
Is Colombo the capital of Sri Lanka?
Colombo is the commercial capital. The official administrative capital is Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, close to Colombo.
Most of our tours begin or end in Colombo with a private driver, or send us your dates and we will build a route around it. For more on visiting, see the Sri Lanka Tourism board.
Before you go: our Sri Lanka travel instructions cover arriving at the airport and money and payments.
Colombo is not on our standard itineraries, but we can add it to a longer trip. Good starting points are the 7 day Sri Lanka tour, 10 day Sri Lanka tour and 14 day Sri Lanka itinerary. Travelling alone? Read about solo travel in Sri Lanka. Planning your dates? See the best time to visit Sri Lanka guide, or send us your dates and we will plan it with you.
