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Located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a lively and bustling city that serves as the commercial capital of the country. While Colombo showcases a seamless blend of modernity and tradition, exploring beyond its borders reveals a plethora of historical and cultural marvels. By venturing outside of Colombo, travellers can uncover the diverse history and cultural richness that defines Sri Lanka. From the holy city of Kandy to the old-world charm of Galle, each destination offers a unique insight into Sri Lanka's enchanting tapestry. Whether you're a history buff, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, the neighbouring cities to Colombo promise an unforgettable journey through the heart and soul of this beautiful island nation.
Discover the essential cities to visit on your inaugural journey to Sri Lanka, returning with a journal filled with heritage and culture, and a bag laden with memorable souvenirs.
Kandy, often referred to as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka and 144 km from Colombo, has a long history dating back to the 14th century. It was the last capital of the ancient kings' era and played an essential role in preserving the sacred tooth relic of Buddha, making it a significant religious centre. Kandy offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's royal past, vibrant cultural traditions, and the chance to witness religious ceremonies at the Temple of the Tooth. The city's scenic beauty and welcoming locals make it a must-visit destination.
Temple of the Tooth
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in Kandy, Sri Lanka. It houses the Buddha's tooth relic and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. During puja, tourists and devotees can visit the room where the tooth is kept, but they do not see the tooth. The temple's golden roof is a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture and a spiritual sanctuary.
Timings: 5:30 am to 8 pm
Ticket Prices: INR 1000 per person
Address: Sri Dalada Veediya, Kandy 20000 Sri Lanka
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanic Gardens in Sri Lanka is one of the oldest botanical gardens in Asia, showcasing a vast collection of exotic plants. Established by the British in the 19th century, these gardens play a crucial role in education, research, and conservation. They attract over 2 million visitors annually and 5 percent of the nation's school children. Recent initiatives include establishing new botanic gardens to conserve Dry Zone and Wet Zone plants, marking the first local botanic garden development in 130 years. The overarching vision is to be the premier botanic garden in the tropics, emphasising education, conservation, and admiration of plant resources.
Timings: 7:30 am to 5 pm
Ticket Prices: INR 1500
Address: P.O. Box 14, Peradeniya, Sri Lanka, 20400
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress built in the 5th century that served as a royal palace. Located 173 km from Colombo, the site is famous for its intricate frescoes, water gardens, and the iconic lion's paw entrance. Sigiriya is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. Climbing to the summit provides a unique perspective on ancient Sri Lankan civilisation, while the surrounding landscape is a paradise for photographers. This site is a must-visit destination for history enthusiasts and adventure seekers, owing to its cultural significance.
Sigiriya Rock
Sigiriya Rock, also known as Sinhagiri, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Sri Lanka. It is a 200-metre-high rock column formed by lava from an extinct volcano. The rock features the ruins of an ancient stronghold that was built in the late 5th century CE. The site comprises a citadel, palaces, gardens, moats, the Mirror Wall, and frescoes. From the top of the rock, you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a marvel of ancient engineering and a must-visit tourist attraction in Sri Lanka.
Timings: 6:30 am to 5:30 pm
Ticket Prices: INR 100 for local adults and INR 500 for foreign adults
Address: Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Museum
Sigiriya Museum in Sri Lanka, established in 2009 with funding from the Japanese International Cooperation Agency, showcases exhibits from various periods of history, including prehistoric times and the reign of King Kashyapa. The museum displays artefacts, sculptures, jewellery, a human skeleton, a diorama of the site, photographs, informative videos, and models of the fortress. It offers a unique experience with its brick tunnel entrance and corridors that mimic the experience of climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Timings: 5 am to 5 pm
Ticket Prices: INR 100
Address: Sigiriya Thalikotta Sigiriya Thalikotta, Sigiriya, Central Province, Sigiriya 21120 Sri Lanka
Negombo, known for its centuries-old fishing industry and just 37 km from Colombo, has a diverse history influenced by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. The city has earned the nickname "Little Rome" because of its numerous Catholic churches. Negombo offers a laid-back atmosphere, a blend of cultures, and an opportunity to experience the authentic coastal life of Sri Lanka. The city's historic churches and vibrant markets make it a unique destination for those seeking a relaxed cultural experience.
St. Mary's Church
St. Mary's Church in Negombo is a famous Roman Catholic church that is 140 years old. It is one of the largest cathedrals in the country, with cream-yellow walls, black and white marble details, and a pink neoclassical exterior. The church is adorned with many drawings and carvings. The staff is professional, and the church is well-maintained, making it an ideal place for Catholics to pray and feel connected to God.
Timings: 5:30 am to 8 pm
Address: Main Street, Negombo, Sri Lanka
Negombo Fish Market
Negombo is a fishing community where fishermen start work as early as 4 am. The Negombo Lagoon is a shrimp, crabs, and lobster source, while the Indian Ocean provides fresh fish. The day's catch is sun-dried on the beach, and dried fish is salted and sold across the island. The wet market offers a variety of fresh seafood, including tuna, mackerel, squid, sardines, and sharks. Some Muslim fishermen operate on Sundays. Local restaurants get the best fish before it reaches the market.
Unawatuna is a beautiful coastal town located south of Sri Lanka, just 123 km from Colombo. The area has a rich history steeped in ancient legends and folklore, and it is believed to be part of the mythical Ramayana, making it a place of cultural and historical significance. Unawatuna is a tropical paradise, perfect for those who love beaches and water-based activities. The relaxed atmosphere and the historical and cultural sites make it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. Unawatuna's coral-rich waters also offer excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving, adding an adventurous touch to your coastal retreat.
Unawatuna Beach
Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka's most renowned attractions, captivating locals and tourists with its enduring beauty. This beach is banana-shaped and decorated with golden sand, glistening waters, and verdant palm trees, providing an idyllic setting for quality family time. Sunbeds are readily available, inviting visitors to relax, sip on drinks and enjoy the tranquillity. Beyond its scenic charm, Unawatuna's beach is vibrant with local culture, attracting Sri Lankan families for refreshing ocean swims on hot summer afternoons. The lively atmosphere extends to trendy restaurants and small kiosks offering diverse products and delectable food options. A walk on the west side reveals the famous Japanese Peace Pagoda Statue, adding cultural depth to the beach experience. Unwind at the famous Unawatuna beach, relishing its beauty and savouring a cold, refreshing cocktail for a truly rejuvenating experience.
The Galle Dutch Fort, also known as the Ramparts of Galle, is an important historic site in the Bay of Galle on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. Only 13 mins from Unawatuna town, the Galle Fort is a must-visit. The Portuguese initially constructed the fort in 1588, which the Dutch later reinforced from 1649 onwards. It is the largest fortress in Asia built by any European colonial power that still stands today. Many consider the fort's design a unique blend of Sri Lankan and Dutch architectural styles. Furthermore, the fort houses a museum that showcases various relics from the Dutch era, including ceramics, jewellery, garments, furniture, beeralu weavings, and a well.
Timings: Open 24 hours
Address: Galle 80000, Sri Lanka
