THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Colombo - 2024 (with Photos) - Tripadvisor
Things to Do in Colombo

Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka - Colombo Attractions

Things to Do in Colombo


Book these experiences for a close-up look at Colombo.

From quick jaunts to full-day outings.

Top Attractions in Colombo

These rankings are informed by traveler reviews—we consider the quality, quantity, recency, consistency of reviews, and the number of page views over time.

Serene cultural site by a lake, showcasing Buddhist history through statues, antiquities, and a museum, enveloped by a peaceful atmosphere.
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Vibrant seafront area with an array of street food and recreational activities. Enjoy picturesque views, evening kite-flying, and a lively local scene.
This attraction description was created by AI, using information and phrases commonly found in reviews users submitted to Tripadvisor. Tripadvisor did not create and is not responsible for this description. Please read full traveler reviews for more details and information. If you believe something in this AI-generated description is inaccurate, please share your feedback.

Explore Sri Lanka's past through artifacts, from the royal throne to textiles. Features cultural insights and a traditional cuisine outlet.
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Historic complex in the fort district with a mix of dining and shopping amid colonial architecture, known for its relaxed ambiance and local cuisine.
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*Likely to sell out: Based on Viator’s booking data and information from the provider from the past 30 days, it seems likely this experience will sell out through Viator, a Tripadvisor company.

What travelers are saying

  • Roslyn138
    Wrexham, UK1,114 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We arrived by cruise ship on the last leg of our trip and decided on a 3 hour taxi trip around the city €30 .
    The first stop was Gangaramaya Temple . It was a large complex which is the oldest temple in Colombo , an eclectic mix of Thai , Indian as well as Chinese structures. There is an admission cost but it’s only £2 - keep the ticket as you will use it for the temple by the lake .
    There is the temple as well as museum- with artefacts from the country’s past . As you would expect numerous Buddha statues - even the smallest in a glass box that you need a magnifying glass to see.
    We then visited the temple by lake Beira which was breathtaking and serene. Our only mistake was not to book a guide to explain the various parts of the temple .
    Written May 11, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kekin2011
    Mumbai, India301 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were here on an early Saturday morning. It was quite busy but in a good way. People were walking, exercising and sunbathing as well. Our hotel, Berjaya was right beside the beach and we had an over-bridge to reach the beach from our hotel (there was a train track under the bridge). There were a few restaurants that were literally on the beach itself.

    It's a fairly long beach. There were some watersports activities happening. I remember jet skiing. Although, we didn't do any.
    Written January 31, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LolaGo1
    Washington DC, DC6,628 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    During our tuktuk tour, we briefly stopped here to take some pictures. It was quite hot, like 90 degrees when we visited, so just a brief visit here. Will try visit again late in the pm to enjoy its views and ambience.
    Written March 7, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • oldiesontherun
    Norfolk229 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    A trip to this museum was part of a complimentary tour from our hotel. There was lots to see there but there were lots of staircases.
    Written January 30, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Nilushen
    Colombo, Sri Lanka814 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    The temple is praised for its elaborate architecture, including a stunning main entrance and intricate carvings. Some reviewers mention its significance as a Buddhist pilgrimage site, believed to have been visited by the Buddha himself. Many visitors find the temple serene and calming, a great place for prayer and reflection. The large reclining Buddha statue is a popular attraction, along with the dagoba (stupa) and the sacred bo tree. There's also a museum on the premises. As with any religious site in Sri Lanka, it's respectful to cover your shoulders and knees. Maintain silence while devotees are praying, and be mindful of your actions while exploring the temple grounds. If you want to avoid crowds, consider going on a weekday or earlier in the day. Be aware that some ceremonies might limit access to certain areas. Overall, Kelaniya Temple seems to be a popular destination for both pilgrims and tourists, offering a beautiful space for cultural immersion and spiritual reflection.
    Written April 23, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • S P
    3 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice shops, bars and restaurants are there. But I felt that all are formal rather than live and buzzing happy go lucky atmosphere is missing.
    Written March 3, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Maximilian
    Hong Kong, China1,711 contributions