Sure, some travelers like to stick to a routine. A planned schedule is great, as it ensures that travelers can experience all that a country has to offer in a concise and timely manner. However we also believe that an increasing number of tourists wish to experience Sri Lanka on their own terms, possibly veering off the usual run-of-the-mill sightseeing. So where does one venture off to in search of a memorable adventure? We’re going to try and help visitors out by suggesting a few activities that might help kick start this journey. Let’s start with our Capital – Colombo.
1. Fort Bazaar (Pettah) – An explosion of vibrant colours and sounds and top on the list, this bazaar is a must whilst in Colombo. The open air market is the best example of Sri Lanka’s multicultural influences. Amidst the crowded streets you will find an eclectic array of fruit sellers, toy shops, small eateries, a Hindu Kovil, a Mosque and even large stores selling household appliances. All this existing in harmony on the very same street! A walk down the buzzing streets of Pettah will expose any traveler to the authentic sights and sounds of Colombo, an experience that is sure to excite you to the core!
2. Sunset at Mount Lavinia Beach - Whilst we realise that Mount Lavinia is situated on the outskirts of Colombo, it’s definitely worth a trip (approximately 30 minutes drive). The sandy stretch of beach is dotted with tiny beach shacks serving up some quality seafood dishes, which do not bore a whole in your pocket. Sunsets at Mount Lavinia are most dazzling! On a clear evening, the skies are set ablaze with glorious hues of pink and mauve. For those looking for a bit of romance, we suggest heading over to the famous Mount Lavinia Hotel and enjoy a cold drink whilst watching the sunset on The Terrace.
3. Eat your heart out – Sri Lankan cuisine consists of flavourful, aromatic dishes. The city of Colombo is packed with a huge variety of culinary offerings, heavily influenced by invaders from the West and India. Try out traditional rice and curry, the staple diet for a majority of Sri Lankans. There’s Lamprais, a delicious rice dish served in a banana leaf influenced by the Dutch. Also don’t miss out on other traditional specialties such as String Hoppers (a stringy noodle made out of wheat flour), Hoppers (a crispy bowl shaped pancake), Roti (flat bread) and Thosai (a savory pancake) and Biriyani (an aromatic rice dish). Bon Appetit!
4. A stroll down Galle Face Green – This is a long stretch of lawn that faces the sea. It was once the location of a Dutch Fort that was built to keep watch of the Colombo Port, however it now serves as a popular place for a late evening rendezvous or a day out with the kids. The stretch of lawn is strewn with small food carts that sell snacks throughout the day, as well as many street vendors selling bits and bobs for the kids to play with. Sunsets on Galle Face Green are also very beautiful. Don’t miss out!
5. Gangaramaya Temple – There are a large number of temples in this predominantly Buddhist country. However this temple seems to stand out amongst others, as it is rather unique. Sitting on the banks of the Beira Lake in Colombo, the temple houses a library, a museum, a meditation centre and an exotic mix of gifts from all parts of the world. Even the design of the temple is unique, drawing inspiration from Thai, Indian and Chinese architecture. Today the temple serves as a place of worship for Buddhists but also acts as a vocational centre and an orphanage. Gangaramaya is the focus of the Navam Perahera, a colourful procession that occurs annually on the full moon (Poya) day of February.
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