Port City Colombo aims to facilitate connections to the South Asian market through investment opportunities, international business environments, world-class infrastructure, and high-quality sustainable living. Upon completion, Port City Colombo will feature five distinct precincts: the Financial District, Central Park Living, Island Living, the Marina, and the International Island. The city will additionally encompass over 6.4 million square metres of new developments in residences, healthcare, education, entertainment, hotels, restaurants, retail, and commercial complexes. In May 2021, the Parliament of Sri Lanka approved the Port City Commission Bill to establish the Colombo Port City Special Economic Zone and Economic Commission. Under this law, companies can be exempt from all taxes, personal, corporate, excise, import, and every other tax for up to forty years.
The museum is housed in a former Dutch prison, built in 1676, which is the only surviving Dutch period building within the Colombo Port area.[1] The building has been refurbished and renovated to accommodate the artifacts at cost of Rs 25 million,[2] as a result of the concept first presented by the Minister of Ports Development, Rehabilitation & Reconstruction, M. H. M. Ashraff. It was officially opened in August 2003,[2] by the Minister of Shipping, Ports Development, Eastern Development and Muslim Religious Affairs, Rauff Hakeem.[3] Various items of historical significance relating to the ports of the country, it's maritime industry and the ocean around Sri Lanka are on display. Sculptures of King Vijeya and other significant characters are also on display along with model exhibits of ships. There are also art works, and models symbolizing the systematic development of the Colombo Port and equipment used in Port operation during various times
In the heart of the busy streets of Pettah, rising proudly out of the bustling crowds of Colombo, the red and white structure of the Jami-ul-Alfar Mosque (colloquially known to locals as the Red Mosque) stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city, as well as being one of the oldest mosques in Colombo. Its clock tower and candy-cane-striped minarets, towering over its surroundings, are visible for miles around and were once used as a landmark by sailors approaching Colombo’s ports. Commissioned to be built in the early 1900s by the local Muslim community, who were in need of a central location for their daily prayers, the construction of the mosque was completed and open to devotees by 1909. The mosque was designed by Habibu Labbe Saibu Lebbe, an unknown architect of the time, in the style of Indo-Saracenic buildings. One of its key features are the “pomegranate-shaped domes”, which are said to be different to the traditional onion-shaped domes of mosques.
The Lotus Tower (Sinhala: නෙළුම් කුළුණ, romanized: Nelum Kuluna; Tamil: தாமரைக் கோபுரம், romanized: Tāmaraik Kōpuram), also known as the Colombo Lotus Tower, stands at a height of 351.5 meters (1,153 feet) in Colombo, Sri Lanka.[1][2] It has become a symbolic landmark for the country.[3] As of 2019, the tower is the tallest self-supported structure in South Asia and the second tallest overall, behind the guy-wire-supported INS Kattabomman antenna tower in India. It ranks as the 11th tallest tower in Asia and the 19th tallest tower in the world. Initially, the tower was proposed to be built in Peliyagoda, but the Government of Sri Lanka later decided to change the location.[4] The lotus-shaped structure serves various purposes, including communication and observation, as well as leisure facilities. The estimated cost of construction was approximately US$113 million.[5]
Also called Captain’s Garden Kovil, this is Colombo´s oldest Hindu Temple. The South-Indian inspired architecture of this temple, as well as the beautiful and bright paintings, and detailed artwork, especially in the ceiling, is impressive. They were building some new structures when we visited, so the temple is still expanding. Temple Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil Colombo Temple Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil Colombo The temple has a lot of statues of many different Hindu gods, but the main god of this temple is Easwaran (Shiva) and Ganesh.
Viharamahadevi Park (Sinhala: විහාරමහාදේවී උද්යානය; formerly Victoria Park, Sinhala: වික්ටෝරියා පාක්) is a public park located in Cinnamon Gardens, in Colombo, situated in front of the colonial-era Town Hall in Sri Lanka. It was built by the British colonial administration and is the oldest and largest park of Colombo. The park was originally named "Victoria Park" after Queen Victoria but was renamed after Queen Viharamahadevi, the mother of King Dutugamunu on July 18, 1958.[1]
The Town Hall of Colombo is the headquarters of the Colombo Municipal Council and the office of the Mayor of Colombo. Built in front of the Viharamahadevi Park, Colombo, Sri Lanka, it is the meeting place for the elected municipal council. In 1921 renowned Scottish town planner, Professor Patrick Geddes, recommended that the Council should construct a large central and dignified municipal building to house the council, a public reception hall, the mayor's office and a public library. The need for the Colombo Public Library was addressed by a philanthropic donation of a building by Dr. W. Arthur Silva in 1925. This building, Sirinivasa, is now the official residence of the mayor.
Gangaramaya Temple (Sinhala: ශ්රී ගංගාරාම මහාවිහාරය śrī gangārāma mahāvihāraya, Tamil: ஸ்ரீ கங்காராம மகாவிகாரம் Srī Gaṅgārāma Makāvikāram) is one of the most important temples in Colombo, Sri Lanka, being a mix of modern architecture and cultural essence. Located on the Beira Lake, it was completed in the late 19th century.
Sri Lanka have a large verity of traditional handy crafts and tradition of making handicraft is as old as it’s nation. according to Mahavansa (The great chronicle) when the prince Vijaya from India landed in Sri Lanka in the 6th century BC he met Kuveni spinning cotton. Our ancient kings looked after the craftsmen and encouraged them and it was the main reason for it's development Masks Mask is an ornamental facial decorative wear used in entertainment and dancing. Early man used masks in rituals, Dramas, Cureing of sickness. It is believed that mask provide curative benefits for physiological problems. Use of mask in Sri Lanka as old as Sinhala nation and there are three main verities and used the wood call “Diya Kanduru” ( nux vomica or Blazar) .Reason for using Diya Kanduru is for it’s lightness,Durability,no cracking,no insect attacking and easy to carve.
Ceylon tea, a type of black tea, is renowned for its bold, full, and brisk flavor, and originates from Sri Lanka, where it's a significant part of the country's culture and economy. Here's a more detailed look at Ceylon tea: Origin and Production: Ceylon tea is grown and manufactured entirely in Sri Lanka. The Sri Lanka Tea Board is the legal proprietor of the Lion Logo of Ceylon tea. Tea from Sri Lanka must conform to strict quality standards set by the Sri Lanka Tea Board and be packed in Sri Lanka to qualify as "Ceylon Tea". The tea is exclusively handpicked by expert tea pluckers and is mostly produced through orthodox and artisanal methods. Ceylon tea is the first Ozone Friendly Tea in the world and does not use Methyl-Bromide during packaging and shipping.
Sri Lanka have a large verity of traditional handy crafts and tradition of making handicraft is as old as it’s nation. according to Mahavansa (The great chronicle) when the prince Vijaya from India landed in Sri Lanka in the 6th century BC he met Kuveni spinning cotton. Our ancient kings looked after the craftsmen and encouraged them and it was the main reason for it's development Masks Mask is an ornamental facial decorative wear used in entertainment and dancing. Early man used masks in rituals, Dramas, Cureing of sickness. It is believed that mask provide curative benefits for physiological problems. Use of mask in Sri Lanka as old as Sinhala nation and there are three main verities and used the wood call “Diya Kanduru” ( nux vomica or Blazar) .Reason for using Diya Kanduru is for it’s lightness,Durability,no cracking,no insect attacking and easy to carve.
Colombo Lighthouse is operated and maintained by the Sri Lanka Ports Authority. It is located at Galbokka Point south of the Port of Colombo on the waterfront along the marine drive, in Colombo fort.
Overview Photos Reviews About Tours 0:29 0:06 View All Directions Share Save Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 00100 Map of Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse & Clock Tower Closed ⋅ Opens 9 AM Mon Lakpura Old Colombo Lighthouse and Clock Tower The 29-metre-high (95 ft) tower was the tallest structure in Colombo at that time. The original clock was commissioned for £1,200 in 1814 by the then Governor ... About . Old Colombo Lighthouse or Colombo Fort Clock Tower is a clock tower and was a lighthouse in Colombo. The lighthouse is no longer operational, but the tower remains and functions as a clock tower. It is located at the junction of Chatham Street and Janadhipathi Mawatha in Colombo fort. Wikipedia
Historic Cargills building The iconic Cargills building in the centre of Colombo Fort was originally the residence of Captain Pieter Sluysken, the former Dutch military commander of Galle. It was subsequently occupied by the first British Governor of Ceylon, Sir Frederick North, who lived there for a short time before moving to a spacious villa in Hulftsdorp. The building was acquired by Cargills in 1896, while D.S. Cargill was Chairman, Walter Hamilton the Director and William Jenkins was General Manager. Construction of the current building commenced in 1902, it was designed by Edward Skinner, built by Walker Sons and Company and completed in 1906. A foundation stone dated 1684 and a wooden statue of Minerva (Roman goddess of wisdom, arts and trade), both retrieved from the gable end of Sluysken's house, are preserved by the ground floor lift. By 1909 employed "
Galle Face Beach, also known as Galle Face Green, is a popular oceanfront promenade and park in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It's a great spot for relaxation, enjoying street food, and watching sunsets. While not a traditional beach for swimming, it offers a vibrant atmosphere with locals and tourists enjoying various activities like kite flying, people-watching, and strolling along the sea.
Independence Memorial Hall (also known as Independence Commemoration Hall) is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese-elected legislature on February 4, 1948. It is located in Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum. The monument was built at the location where the formal ceremony marking the start of self-rule, with the opening of the first parliament by Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurred at a special podium February 4, 1948.
Perfect tour to Discover Colombo. My guide, Fesmy, was really professional and prepared. In almost 4 h I've seen lots of things and I tasted the Life in colombo. Great experience!
We had a great trip with Rickas - he was so knowledgeable and friendly. We had a ten year old with us so didn’t want to spend ages at each place but he kept us moving at the perfect pace. All the sights were interesting and we loved the tea tasting and gem shop. Thanks Rickas!
Nasrin was a great guide who took time to explain not only the sights on the agenda but also others as we passed them. His English is very good and knowledge of Sri Lankan history excellent. He also helped with some of the photos.
The trip was 4hr long in scorching heat. Yassir the driver was very kind. He was helping other tourists with their pictures. The shop stops should be optional. These shops are not cheap and leave a bad taste. The guides should be given basic guide training.
It was really nice and pleasant way to see Colombo. Nasrin is very friendly and kind and gives all information one need. No secrets of Colombo for him!
Farzan give us a very enjoyable day seeing the sights around Colombo! Would highly recommend this company. There was so much too see , I don't think we could have done this on our own.
Very nice driver and informative, give me much information and helpful. Will suggest my friends to join this tour. High CP value, I got more than expect
The driver adapted the tour and experience to meet you needs. He was excellent in taking care of you throughout the tour.
The tour was very well priced for what we did and how long it took. It was good to get a look at so many things, and I am retuning for another visit to the National Museum. My driver was great, good English, and took some great photos.
Faslan showed us a great time around Colombo. He was very friendly and knowledgeable. If you want to explore a lot of Colombo in a few hours, I would recommend this tour.
Great treatment, he knows the city and the history of SriLanka very well, friendly and understanding. Great treatment, he knows the city and the history of SriLanka very well, friendly and understanding.
Had a very nice time seeing all the sites of Colombo .nasrin was the driver,very knowledgeable and took me to all the wonderful sights of Colombo.. wonderful tour and highly recommend
Overall wie had a good experience exploring Colombo by TukTuk. The driver was very nice. I would recommend it to others.
Superb Tour, Nasrin is the most knowledgeable and a talented guy who knows and understands the places where we want to go and see, I really recommend Mr Nasrin for tours
We had such a fantastic experience exploring Colombo by tuk-tuk! Our driver was friendly, knowledgeable, and made every stop feel special. Highly recommended for anyone looking for an authentic and fun city adventure!
I booked Colombo full City tour by booking.com and the tuk tuk driver is Mr. Faslan, is a wonderful guy and helpful guy also.
I had an amazing experience riding with Nasrin during my stay in Colombo. From the moment I got into his tuk tuk, I felt welcomed and at ease. Nasrin is not only a skilled and safe driver but also a genuinely kind and respectful person. His professionalism stood out right away—he was punctual, courteous, and very knowledgeable about the city. The tuk tuk was spotless and very comfortable, and Nasrin navigated the busy streets of Colombo with impressive confidence and care. At no point did I feel unsafe or stressed, even in the thick of traffic. What really made the experience special was Nasrin’s warm personality and helpful attitude—he pointed out interesting landmarks, suggested places to eat and visit, and was always happy to answer questions. If you’re visiting Colombo and want a reliable, friendly, and trustworthy tuk tuk driver, I couldn’t recommend Nasrin enough. I’ll definitely be booking with him again the next time I’m in Sri Lanka!
It was an amazing experience, he really helped us with the guided tour in Colombo city and also helped us arrange a whole tour for us in other regions of Sri Lanka as well.. really amazing person! Thanks a lot..
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Outstanding Tuk Tuk Ride with Nasrin! I had the pleasure of riding with Nasrin during my time in Colombo, and I can confidently say he’s one of the best tuk tuk drivers I’ve come across. He was polite, professional, and incredibly helpful throughout the journey. His tuk tuk was clean and well-maintained, and he drove with great care and confidence, making me feel completely safe even in Colombo’s busy traffic. Nasrin was also very friendly and easy to talk to — he shared local tips, recommended great places, and made the ride a genuinely enjoyable experience. If you’re in Colombo and need a reliable, respectful, and honest tuk tuk driver, Nasrin is your guy. I’ll definitely be contacting him again whenever I return to Sri Lanka!
Amazing place and kind full man. It's beautiful memories 😍. He was very good man and he knew each and every places in Colombo. He was very punctual and friendly
I had a wonderful time during the Colombo Tuk Tuk City Tour and Shopping Tour (all inclusive)! While the sightseeing part was great, what really stood out for me was the shopping experience. Our guide took us to various local markets, handicraft shops, tea shops, and spice shops, where we could explore authentic Sri Lankan products. What I liked the most was that we were never rushed - there was plenty of time to explore, ask questions, and enjoy the local atmosphere.
It was a very interesting and adventure trip we did, appreciate your kindness in helping us in explaning all the interesting histirical places like temples, churches and mosque,. We saw the best collection of souvenirs, Tea and Jewellery in srilanka. Thankyou Naz for being greatfull. I have no hesitation in recomendingvyou to all my friends.
I had the absolute pleasure of exploring Colombo with Nasrin as my city tour guide, and I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. He was not only knowledgeable about the rich history and culture of Colombo, but also incredibly warm, professional, and attentive to every detail. Nasrin made the tour feel personal and engaging, taking us to both the must-see landmarks and some hidden gems only a true local would know. His storytelling brought the city to life, and his recommendations for food and shopping were spot-on. If you’re visiting Colombo and want a guide who’s passionate, friendly, and deeply informed, Nasrin is the one to call. Highly recommended!
Very good driver newar He took us all over colombo We loved it. Thank you. I recommend this experience
It was a same-day reservation at short notice, but it was a smooth reservation. We had them take us to different parts of the city and enjoyed the sightseeing at the train window and entrance. In fact, many of the facilities are sightseeing through train windows, but I am glad that I was able to efficiently visit many of the sights in a limited time. I'd be lying if I didn't have any concerns about not being able to go to a jewelry store even though I wasn't interested in buying one. But the driver, faslan, explained the building, which I could see at any time while driving, cared about the photo spots, and guided me here and there. Overall, I was very satisfied if I thought of it as a four-hour private tour for about 2,000 yen, and I was glad I used it.
I didn't go to all the places that were on my plan! The guide at the place where you arrive is also varied and you are free to look around I was told there was a place for young women to buy, and I was invited. I want you to work hard.
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