How to Spend One Day in Colombo

The commercial capital of the island and the largest city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is the vibrant point of entry to this scenic island. Although it is mostly used for an overnight stay by visitors before proceeding to other parts of the island, there are so many rewarding experiences to be uncovered in this city endowed with colonial architecture, beautiful places of worship etc. Discover some of the best things to do in Colombo in one day as most of these attractions are centrally located.

Getting into Colombo

The Bandaranaike International Airport is situated about 35 km from Colombo. Thus, getting to Colombo is very convenient by using an airport taxi or a service such as Uber, when you want to explore the city within a short time, you get to the heart of Colombo (Fort Area) in 45 minutes.

Most of the top places to visit in Sri Lanka are located in and around Colombo and some of them can be easily done on foot while some can be done using a tuk-tuk ride as navigating in the traffic is faster by tuk-tuks. This is a common practice for guests using properties by Aitken Spence Hotels.

Make sure that the tuk-tuk charge is pre-agreed if it is not a metered one.

Gangaramaya Temple

A significant temple in Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple is in the heart of the city. (Open from 6 am to 10 pm each day) This ornate temple is unique with many shrine rooms, a courtyard with a Bo-tree offering shade and serenity depicting the character and aura of a Buddhist place of worship and a museum with an eclectic mix of religious items like Buddha Statues, Hindu deities, and other religious items in addition to a collection of vintage items like stamps, swords, and watches etc.

Across from this temple is the wooden pavilion on the Beira Lake offering another serene place to wander in retrospection amidst many statues of Lord Buddha. These two temples are best witnessed at dawn or dusk.

Town Hall, Viharamahadevi Park & Museum

These three interesting attractions showcase ingA short tuk-tuk ride away from Gangaramaya temple is this graceful structure in pure white.  An outstanding building in the heart of Colombo serving the city as its Town Hall. Built in 1927, it has served the city for nearly a century. Admire this stately building before you cross the road to Viharamahadevi Park.

Viharamahadevi Park, known as Victoria Park during the British colonial era is a green oasis with well-manicured lawns and walkways amid the busy city, ideal for a stroll along on your way to the National Museum.

The National Museum is home to a large collection of historical and cultural artefacts, paintings, objects used by the Royalty, thrones, statues etc. showcasing the rich culture and heritage of the nation.

The Dutch Hospital Precinct

Another tuk-tuk ride from the National Museum will take you back to the old Dutch Hospital in Fort, the oldest preserved building of that era in Sri Lanka which is now restored and has many restaurants and boutiques welcoming locals and visitors for an array of dining experiences coupled with shopping.

Sit out in the courtyard area and admire all the old and new architecture from this precinct.

Pettah and Fort

Apart from the market in Pettah which is bustling throughout the day and into the night, view the Ul-Alfar Masjid Mosque an iconic creation completed in 1908. Its unusual red and white brickwork has remained a landmark for ships in the olden days.

President’s House and General Post Office

The President’s House is a fine large building on the former Queen’s Street. Standing with majesty surrounded by extensive gardens is a beautiful creation worth seeing.

The General Post Office is situated on the opposite side of the President’s house.