Colombo city tour, from a British colony to a modern port city

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

• 1

  You’ll be guided to visit the iconic Colombo Lotus Tower, Sri Lanka’s tallest structure and a modern landmark of the city. The tower’s striking lotus-shaped design can be admired from the outside, and tickets can be purchased on-site if you wish to go inside. With the ticket, you can visit the 360° observation deck for stunning panoramic views of Colombo and the Indian Ocean, and enjoy a short immersive movie about the history of Colombo at the Pixel Bloom Studio. Photos can be taken to capture this unique experience. There is an entrance ticket of USD 20 per person.

  45 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 2

  You will be escorted to visit the colorful Sri Kaileswaram Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Colombo. Inside, beautifully detailed statues, intricate paintings, and traditional Dravidian-style architecture can be admired. Hindu culture and rituals can be observed, offering insight into the island’s spiritual traditions. Photos can be taken respectfully while exploring the temple surroundings. There is an entrance ticket of USD 5 per adult.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket not included
• 3
  Independence Memorial Hall

  You will be taken to visit the Independence Memorial Hall, a national monument built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. The grand stone pavilion, surrounded by lion statues and tranquil gardens, can be explored while its historical significance is explained. Nearby, the beautifully restored Independence Arcade buildings can be admired for their colonial architecture and modern charm, with shops and cafés adding to the relaxed atmosphere. There is no entrance fee, and photos can be freely taken to capture the surroundings.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 4
  Galle Face Green

  You will be taken to visit the historic Galle Face Hotel, including its museum, where its heritage and history can be explored. Galle Face Green can be passed through for photos or enjoyed with an optional stroll along the seafront. Photos can be taken at both locations to capture the scenic and historic surroundings.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 5
  Colombo Fort

  You will be taken to drive along the colonial streets of Colombo, passing the historic Clock Tower and other colonial-era buildings such as the Dutch hospital and the Old parliament building in the Fort area. Iconic landmarks, including the harbor and port city, can be observed along the route, and photos can be snapped from the car to capture the city’s colonial architecture and surroundings.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 6
  Pettah

  You will be taken on a 20-minute walk through the bustling streets of Pettah Flea Market. Colorful stalls and street food carts can be passed along the way, offering a glimpse of local commerce and flavors. The walk ends at the Red Mosque, which can be visited to observe its architecture and surroundings. Photos can be taken throughout the walk to capture the lively market atmosphere.

  20 minutes • Admission ticket free
• 7
  Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple

  You’ll be guided to visit the famous Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo. As you walk through the temple complex, beautifully crafted statues, shrines, and museum displays can be admired. The significance of what you observe will be explained, making the visit both spiritual and educational. Photos can be taken respectfully to capture the temple’s rich artistry and serene atmosphere. There is an entrance ticket of USD 5 per adult.

  30 minutes • Admission ticket not included

Additional info

• Wheelchair accessible
• Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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