Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple - Venerable Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera, a well-known Buddhist monk, established Gangaramaya Vihara in the late 1800s. The temple began as a modest hermitage on the shores of Beira Lake, but has since grown into the huge complex that it is today. Gangaramaya Vihara is not just a place of prayer, but also a cultural hub and educational institution. The temple complex is a beautiful combination of traditional Sri Lankan architecture and modern influences.

Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil - Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil, also known as the Kovil, is a major Hindu temple located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Its origins may be traced back to the early 20th century, when it was founded by the Sri Lankan Tamil community, notably those of South Indian origin who immigrated to Sri Lanka. The Kovil is devoted to Lord Shiva, one of Hinduism’s main deities. It is a religious and cultural site where devotees come to pray, perform rituals, and seek blessings.

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - The Red Mosque was constructed in the late 19th century and finished in 1909, during the British colonial period. It was commissioned by the local Muslim population, specifically South Indian Muslim traders who relocated to the area for commercial reasons. The mosque is known for its striking red and white striped brickwork, which gives it a distinguishing appearance and earned it the moniker “Red Mosque.” Its architectural style combines Indo-Islamic and Moorish influences, reflecting the region’s cultural richness and legacy.

Wolvendaal Church - The Dutch Church, built in 1749, is one of the earliest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka. It was constructed during the Dutch colonial period, including the architectural style and religious practices of the Dutch East India Company, which ruled the island at the time. The Wolvendaal Church is an exceptional example of Dutch colonial architecture, with a basic yet graceful design that incorporates Dutch Baroque elements.

Independence Square - The Independence Memorial Hall is a large edifice designed to celebrate Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial authority on February 4, 1948. Designed by architect Tom Neville Wynne-Jones, the monument combines traditional and modern architectural forms, with a large dome and open pavilions supported by columns. The hall hosts national ceremonies, cultural events, and general meetings, especially during Independence Day celebrations. Surrounded by beautiful gardens, the monument offers a quiet backdrop for thought and memory, representing the nation’s unity, freedom, and ambitions for the future.

Viharamahadevi Park - Viharamahadevi Park, formerly known as Victoria Park, is a popular urban park located in the heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Viharamahadevi Park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, a revered figure in Sri Lankan history. The park spans approximately 50 acres and serves as a green oasis amidst the bustling cityscape of Colombo. The park features lush greenery, manicured lawns, and vibrant flower beds, offering a serene escape for visitors seeking relaxation and recreation. It is adorned with statues, fountains, and decorative pavilions, adding to its charm and beauty.

Pettah - Pettah is a suburb of Colombo, Sri Lanka, located east of the city center fort. Pettah Market is Sri Lanka’s largest local market. It is one of Sri Lanka’s busiest commercial regions, with several wholesaler and retailer shops, buildings, commercial institutions, and other organizations located there. Pettah market is primarily separated into five crosses. Even the famous RED MOSQUE (Jami Ul Alfar mosque) is located within Pettah Market. This market would be the busiest spot from 9:00 a.m. until 6:30 p.m.

Lotus Tower - The Lotus Tower, also known as Nelum Kuluna in Sinhala, is an iconic landmark and telecommunications tower in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The Lotus Tower represents technology advancement and architectural innovation in Sri Lanka. Standing at about 350 meters (1,150 feet), it is South Asia’s highest building and the world’s 11th tallest telecommunications tower. The Lotus Tower’s design was inspired by the lotus flower, a holy symbol in Buddhist culture representing purity, enlightenment, and prosperity. The tower has a sleek, tapering shape with numerous storeys and an observation deck at the top that provides panoramic views of Colombo and its surrounds.

Old Parliament Building - Discover Sri Lanka’s political past by touring the Old Parliament building, a historical relic dating back to the colonial era.

Galle Face Green - Galle Face Green offers a charming waterfront location in the heart of Colombo and extends along the Indian Ocean for about 1.5 kilometers (0.93 miles). The verdant area is a well-liked meeting spot for residents as well as tourists, attracting people of all ages to take in the beautiful scenery and leisure pursuits. Galle Face Green originated in the 17th century during the Dutch colonial era, when it was used as a promenade for colonial inhabitants. It developed over time into a public park and leisure area that residents used for strolls in the evenings, family vacations, and picnics.

Colombo Fort Clock Tower - Clock Tower: The Clock Tower is another well-known landmark in Colombo and is located next to the Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse. In 1857, the Clock Tower was constructed as a tribute to Prince Albert, the late husband of Queen Victoria, who had died the year before.

Colombo Lighthouse - Colombo Light, sometimes called the Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse, is a historic lighthouse that was previously used by ships navigating the waters off the coast of Colombo as a beacon of safety. It was first built in the 19th century, during the British colonial era, to direct ships into Colombo’s crowded harbor.

Pettah Floating Market - In Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka, there’s a unique shopping and entertainment complex called The Floating Market. One of the busiest and oldest commercial districts of Colombo, Pettah, is home to the contemporary development known as The Floating Market, which is located along the banks of the historic Beira Lake. As a part of the government’s initiatives to boost tourism and revitalize the area, it was made public in 2014.

Ceylon Tea Supermarket - visit a tea factory, sample free tea, and discover more about Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry by going to a tea factory.