Colombo is fairly renowned for its ancient temples, white beaches, safari rides, lush tea plantations and historical architecture. But there is another equally exciting side to this island capital. The tropical paradise is known to come alive after the sun sets, holding within its embrace every kind of party spot imaginable, from beach parties to nightclubs and karaoke bars. If you wish to explore the wild side of Sri Lanka, Colombo is the best place to begin.
Here are five party destinations you should consider for an exciting and adventurous night.
With a decades-long reputation of being Sri Lanka’s biggest casino, Bally’s is located near the Galle Face Green. It is considered to be a staple in Colombo’s nightlife and is worth checking out even if you do not indulge in gambling. It boasts of a spacious and elegant gaming floor with more than 60 slot machines offering different games like blackjack, roulette and poker. However, it is much more than a casino. The space offers guests amenities like a restaurant, lounge, gym, spa, shopping arcade and hotel rooms. It also hosts regular events and performances featuring local and foreign artists, musicians and dancers.
The casino is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week and is quite renowned for its courtesy hospitality. Guests are regularly offered free drinks and snacks and their needs are taken care of promptly. It is a must-visit place if you wish to experience glamour, luxury and entertainment all in one destination.
Situated on the first floor of the Hotel Glendower in Nuwara Eliya, the entrance to the pub is through an old Sri Lankan-style wooden staircase. The interior is the epitome of the West meeting local culture. It is designed like an old English pub from the inside, transporting customers to a bygone European era. Ask for staff recommendations to enjoy the best drinks and sit back to take in the cosy atmosphere since most of the bar is covered in wooden furniture. The 19th Hole Pub also has regular happy hours, sometimes twice a day. It is considered to be a trendy and hip location and is ideal if you wish to spend the night partying but also want to limit socialising to just your friends.
The pub is open from 11AM-11PM every day. Entry is free.
Situated within the Casa Colombo Hotel, the ZaZa Bar blends the panoramic views of outdoor seating with the comfort of indoor seating. It is constructed of glass walls and ceilings. By day the space feels like a fusion of modern and abstract elements but as the night sets in the bar swings into action, bringing out a range of international wines, spirits, signature cocktails and heady live music. Interestingly, the bar has you covered even if you are a teetotaller, offering innovative mocktails and premium blended Ceylon Tea. With a large sports screen and entertaining gigs, this the ideal location if you wish to dance the night away amid sprinklings of conversation.
This mafia-themed and dimly lit sing-along pub caters to the interests of the younger generation. Sopranos is equipped with the latest sound technology and approximately 17,000 soundtracks! The interior is sleek and wood-furnished which gives it a cosy atmosphere. There is no formal stage to sing on so customers begin the revelries from their respective tables. It is intimate and spacious at the same time. The pub offers signature cocktails and mocktails, a wide array of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages as well as tantalising hors d’oeuvres. The place has been open since 2002 and is now an institution in Colombo. It is the best place to go to if you prefer to sing the night away, rather than dancing.
Please note that the Sopranos pub has a dress code that does not allow shorts and slippers. It is known for opening at 7PM and closes only when the last customer leaves.
Rhythm and Blues is arguably the most popular nightclub in Colombo. It hosts live performances from jazz to hip-hop. There is also an outdoor garden and pool table for those who like to take breaks while dancing. The ambience and lighting at the club are considered to be one of the best in Colombo, making it the place to visit if you are a seasoned partygoer.
The club is open from 8PM-5AM on weekdays and 8PM-12AM on weekends. Entry for women is free whereas men are charged LKR 1,000.