Best Things To Do in Colombo & West Coast Sri Lanka

A truly stunning building founded by the British governor in 1876, Colombo National Museum offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s journey over two millennia of history, folklife and traditions. Witness the exhibits telling the story of ancient Sri Lanka through art, statues and carvings of the island’s historic past and of course the colonial period. 

Pettah is Colombo's oldest district, a destination full of adventure. Soak up the sounds, smells and people-watching as you head into the wonderland of markets and shops, nestled between religious buildings such as the Jami-Ul Afar Mosque or the Wolvendaal Church. It's best to get there early in the morning, when the stalls are full of their best produce, and our best advice is to go in the direction of the crowds (it's often chaotic!).

For lovers of the truly unusual, the Gangaramaya Buddhist temple is the place to go. Comprising several buildings and a temple complex packed with artefacts - some stranger than others - the complex houses a library, a museum (with sacred taxidermy!) and a large number of Buddhas. The main focus of interest is the full moon (Poya) celebrations in February. So it's the perfect time to visit, but this must-see site is perfect for year-round viewing.

Just a stone's throw from Gangaramaya, in the heart of Colombo, lies Lake Biera. Bright green, the lake is linked to the Indian Ocean by a passage of narrow canals. With a stunning Simamalaka shrine situated on an island in the middle and even a floating market along the shore, the lake is a peaceful place to stop and visit the city. Watch the national storks and pelicans stroll around the perimeter or, better still, join them on the water and hop on one of the swan-shaped paddleboats for an extra thrill!

For a combination of sun, sea and breeze, there's no more perfect place to unwind after a hectic day in and around the city. Surrounded by luxury hotels, Galle Face Green offers a variety of walking routes, delicious street food and cheap souvenirs, perfect for children. Head to the jetty to watch the waves roll in or stroll along the promenade and tantalise your taste buds with traditional Isso Wadey (prawn fritters). The strong winds make this an ideal place for kite flying between June and September, and it is here that the national kite festival is held each year. Why not stay at the nearby Galle Face Hotel and Resort, a wonderful place to stay.

After strolling through the bustling streets of the city, the Old Dutch Hospital is the ideal place for an authentic meal. Dating back to the Dutch colonial era in the early 1600s, the Old Dutch Hospital is considered to be one of the oldest buildings in the Colombo Fort area. This charming restored building is home to a host of restaurants and cafés, all serving authentic Asian dishes to delight everyone's taste buds.

It can get pretty exhausting strolling around the sights of Western Sri Lanka in the heat, so it’s no wonder that almost every local and tourist uses a tuk-tuk as a main form of transportation. Wherever you walk, drivers will stop and ask if you want a lift. Be warned they can be persistent! For a fun new way to experience city life, then we couldn’t recommend them more.

Offering a fantastic, personalised tour of the city in a 1940s Jeep, the Colombo City Jeep Tour operators will give you unobstructed 360-degree visibility, perfect for those Instagram pics. Choose timings anywhere from 3hrs to a whole day (or night!), bask in the sites of Galle Face Green, Aththidiya bird sanctuary, and 20 other tourist destinations all included in the price, with a few delicious refreshments thrown in there too for good measure.

Western Sri Lanka, along with the rest of the country, grows many spices and natural plants, which are also used for ayurvedic and medicinal purposes, promoting good health. The region offers many ayurvedic centres, presenting the best detoxing herbal teas and indulging massages, with oils of your choice used to relax your mind, body and soul, or any aches and pains. Different treatments and oils can be tailor-made to suit any needs. Why not try the local Mangalapathy Ayurvedic Clinic or Siddhalepa Spa for your next relaxation and wellness fix.

The amazing wetland parks, including Talangma Wetland in Pelawette and Beddagana Wetland Park in Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, are a wildlife lover's dream. Located 30–40 minutes from the city, these mangrove-filled lakes are filled to the brim with chirping birds and other wonderful wildlife. Raised platforms take visitors through swamps and rainforests, with jogging tracks, children's play areas and even a food centre with a bustling market selling organic and eco-friendly produce. We recommend that you don't miss the sunrise or sunset from the Beddagana floating bridge.