What to do with Children in Tow
Travelling with kids is no easy task. You need to keep them occupied yet safe. Here are the best places to visit with kids in tow, in Colombo.
Sri Lanka
Colombo
Colombo is the commercial and financial capital of Sri Lanka, and is located in the Western Province, along the coast. The temperature on average is 27C and can go up to 31C in April-May-June.
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A CLOSER LOOK
Top places to visit
The oldest Hindu temple in Colombo
Sri Kailasanathar Swami Devasthanam with shrines dedicated to Shiva and Ganesh, is the oldest Hindu temple in Colombo. Located behind the Fort Railway Station, this Kovil (Hindu Temple) is devoted to the war god Skanda. It is the starting point for the annual Hindu Vel Festival. Vel is a procession where Vel (trident) chariot is dragged by devotees to the kovils on Galle Rd in Bambalapitiya.
Gangaramaya Temple
Built in the 19th century, with decorations of stone carvings, brass work and paintings, the Gangaramaya Temple also houses a library and a museum. It is run by monks and is located next to Beira Lake.
Galle Face Green Promenade
Located by the Indian Ocean and along Galle Road, this green grassy area set on 13 acres is where people come to rest and enjoy the beautiful sunset. During the war it was heavily guarded, but now the public are able to walk freely. National and Independence Day events are held here with great gusto and during the kite season, the sky is dotted with colourful kites flying in the sea breeze.
The Sapumal Foundation
The Sapumal Foundation houses the studio and art materials of the late Harry Pieris who was one of Sri Lanka’s renowned artists. Paintings of other local artists are also on display here.
The Natural History Museum
The Natural History Museum is famous for displaying Sri Lanka's flora and fauna in dioramas.
The National Museum of Colombo
Housed in a 19th century building, this museum displays an interesting collection of manuscripts, antique furniture, sculptures, carvings, china, demon masks and ancient royal regalia. The museum is closed on Fridays and on all public holidays.
The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Center
Stage dramas, painting and photography exhibitions, pottery or some type of workshop or musical can be found going on at the art center. It’s a favourite amongst Colomboites. Open: Monday-Friday 9AM-1PM and 2-4PM. No 18 Guilford Crescent, Colombo 07, Phone: 0094112 695794.
The Dutch Period Museum
This museum, housed in a colonial building dating back to the 18th century, showcases material and artefacts from the Dutch colonial rule, such as wood and ivory furniture, documents from the era, maps and photographs of the Dutch in Sri Lanka, and even crockery.
The Mount Lavinia Beach
Just 20 minutes away from the city center, Mount Lavinia has perhaps the most beautiful stretch of beach in Colombo. The sunset can be quite a sight!
Muslim travel planner
Full guidePlan a Muslim-friendly trip in Colombo
THE LOCAL TABLE
Halal restaurants in Colombo
Chesa Swiss
Swiss food at its best - fondue, spatzli, raclette and more. One of the most exciting gastronomic addresses in Colombo, Chesa Swiss offers its guests pleasant service, a warm ambience and of course great dishes.
Curry Leaf
Situated at the Hilton, this restaurant offers traditional Sri Lankan Cuisine (Buffet), where guests can choose from a wide selection of seafood. The dining area with its thatched roof is intricately decorated allowing guests to soak in the warm glow of the lamps and lanterns. Alternatively, diners can also tuck into their meal by the lotus pond outside.
Emperor's Wok
Szechuan cuisine anyone? Located at the Hilton, the Emperor’s Wok allow guests to dig into mouth-watering dishes such as the Dim-Sum, Peking duck, and crispy chicken – Hong Kong style. Visited mainly by those in the upper echelons of Sri Lankan society, this restaurant provides the best in Chinese food delights.
Ginza Hohsen
Overlooking the Hilton’s landscaped gardens, this restaurant does not fail where food is concerned. Tickle your taste buds with a great range of Japanese cuisine from Sushi and Sashimi to Tempura and Shabu. Guests are also recommended to try the Oden counter and Teppanyaki corner.
Il Ponte
Located at the Hilton and overlooking the pool, this restaurant is as Italian as it can get. Enjoy pizzas baked in wood fired ovens, home-made pasta and grilled delicacies all in a light and informal setting.
Nihonbashi
Another one of Colombo’s Japanese gastronomic addresses, Nihonbashi offers guests great food and pleasant service in sleek and comfortable surroundings. From sushi, sashimi to tempura, they have it all!
Royal Thai
Located at the TransAsia hotel, this charming restaurant offers an unparalleled dining experience for Thai food lovers. Amidst a sleek and intimate setting, guests can choose from 60 mouth-watering dishes. Overall Royal Thai has a great atmosphere, great service and of course great food! Type: Thai Restaurant
Sakura
Diners can enjoy Japanese food on low tables, in real Japanese style.
Spices
Tucked away at the Hilton, Spices offers a range of Sri Lankan, Indian and Western specialities. Floor-to-ceiling windows allow guests to enjoy their meal with a view of the fountains and waterfalls outside.
Spoons
Sleek white and blue setting, mouth-watering dishes and soft music in the background-that’s Spoons for you!
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Where to stay in Colombo
Tintagel
Situated in the leafy suburbs of Colombo 7 (Cinnamon Gardens), and away from the hustle and bustle of the city, Tintagel spells sophistication, beauty, and timeless elegance. Formerly a white stately home belonging to three political personalities, Tintagel has now been converted to include 10 impeccably furnished suites, with all the modern amenities, including wireless internet access, spa and even a ‘fashion designer and tailor-on-call’. With Shanth Fernando as the creative brains behind the luxurious décor, Tintagel is truly in a class of its own.
The Havelock Place Bungalow
The tranquillity and serenity of The Havelock Place Bungalow, is hard to beat. Once an old colonial house, the place has now been restored as a beautiful boutique hotel, with rooms retaining the vestiges of a bygone era. Claimed to be the very first boutique hotel in Colombo, HPB also offers the latest in technology with wireless internet access and other comforts such as a pool and Jacuzzi. The restaurant is another impressive addition – the menu is a la carte, and guests can dine indoors or outside in the beautiful gardens. Havelock Place Bungalow is located in Havelock town, a mostly residential area dotted with few commercial companies.
Hotel Galadari
In addition to being a luxury hotel, Galadari also enjoys the privileged position of being in the heart of Colombo’s business district. Its dining facilities are impressive, with its restaurants serving an eclectic mix of local and international cuisine, all of it halal! Overlooking the Indian Ocean, all 450 rooms are delicately styled offering all the modern amenities. Other facilities in the hotel include a health club, pool, tennis court and a launderette. A place where executives meet, and tourists lull by the pool, this hotel meets international standards in service and quality of experience.
Taj Samudra
The Taj Samudra offers the best of the city and the sea. Located in the central hub of Colombo, this luxury hotel offers a range of rooms and restaurants. Standard rooms have views of the sea or the pool while the Presidential suites come with their own dining and dressing rooms. Other facilities in the hotel include a fitness center, a book shop and a swimming pool. Located near Galle Face Green, this swanky hotel offers you elegance, luxury and pure comfort.
Ceylon Continental
One thing guests can truly enjoy at the Continental are stunning views of the Indian Ocean! All rooms are equipped with modern amenities, with the hotel also offering facilities such as a gym, spa, excellent restaurants and 24 hour room service. This hotel is also a stone’s throw away from some of the more popular shops and restaurants of Colombo. Elegance, luxury and comfort – Continental offers it all.
Cinnamon Grand Colombo
The Cinnamon Grand in Colombo is a classy, stylish hotel, with a range of rooms, restaurants and business meeting facilities. Boasting elegant décor and gleaming rooms, guests can enjoy the exquisite comforts the hotel has to offer and delve straight into luxury. Located in the central hub of Colombo, the Cinnamon Grand is popular with tourists and business executives alike.
Berjaya Mount Royal Beach Hotel
This moderately priced hotel is without much hullabaloo, but caters to all your needs and is a stone’s throw away from the beach. All 95 rooms come with IDD telephone and voice-mail facilities, mini fridge and satellite TV. Guests can ask for rooms overlooking the pool or the sea.
Galle Face Hotel
Steeped in history, this colonial hotel has rooms overlooking the Galle Face Green on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other. With former guests including Princess Alexandra of Denmark, Yuri Gagarin and former British Prime Minister Edward Heath, this hotel stands grand, offering luxury at its best with warm welcoming rooms and services expected of a star class hotel.
Garden Guest House
This guest house offers a warm, homely feeling, with friendly staff and comfortable rooms equipped with internet. GGH is Located in a residential area, just outside the busy town of Colombo. Hotel management arrange tours of the country if you ask.
Hotel Renuka & Renuka City Hotel
Comfortable, yet modern, this hotel comes with some of the basic amenities required for a pleasant stay. Rooms are equipped with satellite TV, a safe and mini-fridge. Other services in this hotel include a free morning newspaper, wake-up-call as well as 24-Hour Room Service. Individual attention is guaranteed to all guests.
History and today in Colombo
Sri Lanka Tourist Entry
Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration operates the official Electronic Travel Authorization portal. Tourist ETA rules, passport-nationality eligibility, fee exemptions and the permitted stay are set out there.
Colombo Residents
The people are a mix of all races – Sinhala, Tamil, Muslim and Bergher (Dutch and British descendants), all co-exisitng in peace and harmony. Lifestyles may vary from the rich and the famous to those living in shanties. But one thing that is common amongst all is their welcoming and friendly nature. Ask anyone who’s been to Colombo and they’ll tell you that!
Annual Temperature
January - Max:: 30 ˚C Min: 23 ˚C; February - Max:: 31 ˚C Min: 24 ˚C; March - Max:: 32 ˚C Min: 25 ˚C
Fast Facts
-Location: South Asia: -Dialling code: +94; -Emergency numbers:: Police: 01124333333 Fire: 01124222222 Ambulance: 0112691111 Tourist Information Helpdesk: 0112421052 Airport Enquiry: 0112252861; -Population: 20,238,000: -Languages: Sinhala, Tamil, English -Time zone: GMT +5:30 -Average January temperatures: 26.5 ˚C -Average July temperatures: 27 ˚C -Annual rainfall: 2540mm to 5080mm in the South West, less than 1250mm in the North West and South East.
Public Holidays
1 Jan - New Year's Day.
When to go
Considering rainfall and temperature, the best time to visit Sri Lanka is from November to April.
Currency and Exchange Rates
The currency used in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lanka rupee (LKR). The Central Bank of Sri Lanka issues the country’s banknotes and coins.
Colombo History
Originally known as "Kolon Thota" (port on the river Kelani), it is said that Colombo also got its name via "Kola Amba Thota" which means 'harbor with leafy mango trees' in Sinhala. Colombo at one point was a seaport used by Arab, Moor, Chinese and Persian ships due to its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes and is believed to have been used by traders even 2000 years ago. The conquest of Colombo by the Portuguese was achieved in 1505, but it ended in 1656 when the Dutch invaded and captured the city. With the British exploring and extending its international boundaries, Colombo fell to British hands in 1796 and was made the capital in 1815. Colombo remained the capital following its independence in 1948. However in 1978, Colombo was declared the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, when the administrative and state functions were transferred to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte.
Colombo Today
Colombo is the commercial and financial capital of Sri Lanka, and is located in the Western Province, along the coast. The temperature on average is 27C and can go up to 31C in April-May-June.
Sri Lanka Tourist Entry
Sri Lanka’s Department of Immigration and Emigration operates the official Electronic Travel Authorization portal. Tourist ETA rules, passport-nationality eligibility, fee exemptions and the permitted stay are set out there.
Useful information
Shopping
Crescat Boulevard
This up-market shopping mall is one of the classiest in Colombo. The few shops located inside offer a range of high-end clothes, jewellery, footwear, cosmetics and more. The food court which is located in the basement, invites shoppers to a sumptuous meal in a warm and friendly environment.
Adidas – Exclusive
Everyone’s favourite sports brand is now in Sri Lanka providing quality sportswear and products for the discerning sports enthusiast, and those who swear by Adidas. No 78, Havelock Road, Colombo 05
Barefoot handicraft store
This traditionally laid out store sells some of the finest Sri Lankan souvenirs and handmade items. Chief designer Barbara Samsoni’s designs come to life, bringing shades of delight into the lives of those who buy her products. Cushions, bedspreads, table linen and even lamp shades are made from hand-loomed fabrics, which can be found in bright and varying colours.
Eco Gallery
Environmentalists need not despair when coming to Sri Lanka. They now have a solution to their shopping means: Eco Gallery. This private company creates a whole line of handbags, bed linen, cushion covers, etc. all from eco-friendly materials. Their hand-woven fabrics are a must see!
Leather Collection
Ever loved the feel of soft leather brushing against your skin? Well this store will make sure you will never lose that feel again. Real leather is crafted into handbags, purses and more delights that you simply cannot say no to. Well worth a visit!
Odel Unlimited
Rub shoulders with the glamorous at Odel! This classy place offers branded clothing, jewellery, music CDs, children’s toys, perfumery and souvenirs. Branches of Odel can also be found at the Trans Asia Hotel, Majestic City, and on Galle Road.
Paradise Road
Paradise Road prides itself in being able to offer a variety of arts and crafts, pottery, porcelain, antiques, replicas, glass, statues, scented candles etc., all at one place. A must stop for every tourist, as there’s bound to be something you can buy to take back home.
Premadasa
Sri Lanka’s best dealers in fine gems and jewellery, with many years of experience in the industry and sales worldwide, Premadasa offers an extensive range of stones and designs for any buyer.
The Cricket Shop
A cricket fanatic’s paradise, you can get all the right cricketing gear at this place all at unbeatable prices. Just ask the friendly staff to point you in the right direction.
Titan Store
Titan International brand watches for gents, ladies and children. This stylishly laid out store offers an array of authentic watches. No 64, Liberty Plaza, Colombo 03
Signature sights in Colombo
Colombo Zoological Gardens
Visitors get to see a variety of animals, including a large collection of birds, reptile and fish. The highlight of most people’s trip to the zoo is quite possibly the elephant show, which is held daily at 5:15PM. Elephant and pony rides are available too!
Festivals and events in Colombo
National Day (Independence)
Independence day in Sri Lanka is celebrated with parades, dances and national games.
Sinhala Hindu New Year
The Hindu New year is celebrated with traditional food, clothing, coconut games and pillow fights.
Vesak
Vesak commemorates the birth, death and enlightenment of Buddha. Colourful lanterns are made and hung around town. Parades and other religious activities also take place.
Esala Perahera
This is a Buddhist festival. People dress up in elegant costumes, fire and Kandyan dancers entertain the public and richly decorated elephants make their way down the streets.
Vel
The ceremonial chariot of Skanda, the God of War, is hauled between two temples. Hindu processions also take place on the streets.
Colombo tours and experiences
Colombo and Kandy 02 Nights Tour
1 person USD 130.00 Duration of 3 days Website: http://www.travel-library.com/tours/asia/sriˍlanka/colombo/colomboˍ&ˍkandyˍ02ˍntsˍtour.html
Colombo City Tour 1
Duration: 1 day(s) Pickup info: Colombo Hotel Covers- Cinnamon Gardens and the Pettah, Hindu temple, Dutch Church dating back to 1749, the historic Devatagaha Mosque, and the Gangarama Temple. 1 person USD 57.00 2 people USD 46.00 3-6 people USD 39.00 Website: http://www.colombo-travel.com/ColomboˍCityˍTourˍ
Colombo City Tour 2
Duration: 3 Hours Price: From USD 15 Meeting Point: Will be indicated on voucher Covers: Commercial area of ‘Fort’, Pettah, Jumi Ul Alfar Jummah Masjid, Wolfendhal Dutch Church, Hulfsdorp Law Courts, Cinnamon Gardens, and on to the Independence Square, Bandaranayake Memorial International Conference Hall and National Museum. Website: http://www.city-discovery.com/colombo/tour.php?id=301
Colombo masjids and Muslim travel
Abu Salih Thakkiya
251, Mohideen Masjid Road Colombo - 10
Al - Zaviathul Fasiya
59, Bankshall Street Colombo- 11
Al Khairath Jummah Mosque
132/319, Demelwatte, Grandpass Road Colombo - 14
Al Masjidhul Dheeniya
Kalyani Gangrama Mawatha Mattakuliya
Muhiyaddeen Jumma Masjid
Muhiyaddeen Jumma Masjid
Jumma Mosque
Jumma Mosque
Transportation
Train
You can use the train to get to a few districts along Galled Road, such as Bambalapitiya, Kollupitiya, Wellawatta, Dehiwela and Mount Lavinia. The train is an ideal option for those wishing to avoid the traffic and city smog. Easy to read timetables have been put up at all stations and travellers really don’t have to wait for too long to hop onto a train. A train ride is much more enjoyable than being on a crowded bus for instance, but like the rest of the public transport system in Sri Lanka, the carriages could do with a little bit more cleaning. Train fares are also cheaper than the other modes of transportation.
Tri-Shaw
To go about town, i.e. short distances, it is best to hire a Tri-shaw, also called tuk-tuks. These three wheelers with canvas roofs are owned privately, mostly by the drivers themselves. Short trips can cost as little as Rs 60 and longer trips can cost you as much as Rs 350. Always negotiate and agree on a price with the driver before you begin your journey. Stop about 2-3 tri-shaws before you settle on one, so that you can get an idea of the cost of your trip, because some drivers may hike up the price when they learn you are not a local. Flag down a tri-shaw going in the direction of your destination as they would prove cheaper than those at a designated tri-shaw stand. Metered tri-shaw (with ‘ Meter Taxi’ sign in front) may be even cheaper if you are lucky to come across one. Keep your belongings close to you and make sure you don’t leave anything behind when you leave.
Car for hire
You can hire a private vehicle – car or van – on a daily, weekly or monthly basis and with or without a driver.
Driving Tips
The roads in Colombo are quite decent but there are only a few highways so speeds are usually limited to 50kmph within the city boundaries. Local drivers are known to change lanes abruptly, often without signalling so it is best to stay extra alert at all times. Pedestrians in Colombo are famous for walking on the edge of the road (or in the middle if the road is narrower) and never seem to use the pre-designated pedestrian crossings. Again, best to be alert to avoid knocking down people. You may come across cattle, stray dogs, and even elephants, on the roads. This is where your patience as a driver is sorely tested –i.e. when an elephant crosses a road. Besides that, driving in Colombo should be a manageable affair.
From the airport
Intercity Bus operates from the airport and leaves for Colombo every 30 minutes. An Airport Taxi Service can be contacted at the counter at the arrival lobby or on 0094 112 252861 Ext: 3097
Taxi
Taxis are expensive, yet most would say they are safer than a three-wheeler. You can ask for a driver who understands your language/English. Almost all these taxis come with comfortable seats and air conditioning. Here are some of the cab companies in Colombo:
Health and Safety
What to do when you get there?
Water used for drinking or brushing teeth should be boiled first or sterilized. Drink bottled water or mineral water, usually available at most hotels and supermarkets. Make sure unpasteurised milk is boiled before consumption. Any fruit you decide to eat should be peeled first and meat and fish should be well cooked. Safety Sri Lanka is generally safe to walk about and travel, nevertheless it is best to remain vigilant at all times. Here are a few pointers on how to avoid being scammed or robbed:
What you need?
* Pack medications in clearly labeled containers. Double dose of regular medicine, each kept in separate bags in case one bag is lost. * Letter from your physician on your medical conditions and medications, with generic names, signed and dated. * If you are taking syringes or needles, have your physician’s letter about their medical need. * If you have a heart condition: you need to keep a copy of your ECG taken prior to travel. * Doctor’s prescriptions
