When traveling to Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, you have three route options. Let’s explore them:
- Expressway: A swift and efficient choice.
- Colombo-Puttalam Road: A scenic route that winds through the coastal area, passing by the fisheries harbor and the picturesque Negombo lagoon.
- Coastal Road: This road runs alongside the Dutch Hamilton Canal, eventually leading to Colombo Fort.
For a one-day tour, tourists can explore several notable sites in Colombo:
- Independent Square
- Colombo Museum
- Nelum Pokuna (Lotus Pond Hall)
- Galle Face
- Colombo Fort
As you enter the city from Colombo Fort, you’ll encounter charming remnants of the British era, including the elegant Cargills Building. Its architectural beauty stands as a testament to history.
The Muslim Mosque stands as a captivating beauty, a site not to be missed. Within Colombo Fort, you’ll find the Presidential Palace, an emblem of authority. But it’s the centuries-old hospital, built by the Dutch, that draws both foreigners and locals. Its blend of restaurants and shopping arcades creates a unique allure. Nearby, the Central Bank Building adds to the historical tapestry.
Venturing straight ahead, you’ll encounter:
- The Old Parliament Building
- Several prestigious five-star hotels
Galle Face, right in front of the old Parliament, emerges as the city’s most popular leisure spot. Crowds gather here in the evenings, seeking solace by the sea. Around Galle Face, a constellation of five-star hotels awaits.
Continuing toward Galle, you’ll encounter:
- Temple Trees, now the residential palace of Sri Lanka’s Prime Minister
- Vihara Maha Devi Park, a serene oasis
- The delightful Children’s Park
Historically, Colombo stands as the fourth capital of Sri Lanka, following Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy. And for an unforgettable experience, indulge in a shopping spree at Odel, Kriskat, Liberty Plaza, Romato, and Laksala.
As your Colombo tour concludes, the expressway leads you back to Negombo, where the sunset over the lagoon paints a lovely farewell.
