Top places to visit

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 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.

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.

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 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 is famous for displaying Sri Lanka's flora and fauna in dioramas.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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!