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Home » Destinations » Asia » Sri Lanka

Sights of Colombo, Sri Lanka

Modified: Nov 11, 2019 · Published: Dec 20, 2011 by Mark Wiens |

Colombo, Sri Lanka
Colombo, Sri Lanka

With around 6 million inhabitants, Colombo is not even close to being one of the larger cities in Asia - yet there's no denying that the city is full of vibrant energy and always action-packed!

The streets of central Colombo are characterized by bright colorful signs, streams of rickshaws, tons of pedestrians and rowdy buses that look like they plan to hit anything in their path.

Sri Lankan Train Ride
Sri Lankan Train Ride

One of the best ways to get in and out of Colombo is by train. The railroad cuts directly through Colombo and goes along the beautiful Sri Lankan coast!

Dancing on the Streets of Colombo!
Dancing on the Streets of Colombo!

Sri Lankan's are extremely friendly people and they enjoy having a great time. I've never been to a country where so many people actually ask to have their photo taken just for fun (not because they want a tip).

Gangamaraya Buddhist Temple
Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

Theravada Buddhism is the predominant religion of Sri Lanka.

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most iconic religious places of worship in town.

Mangoes at Pettah Market
Mangoes at Pettah Market

Fruit of all kinds grows in abundance on the island of Sri Lanka. Mangoes and coconuts, in particular, are everywhere to be seen.

This fruit store at Colombo's Pettah market was stocked with a nice selection of bright yellow (almost overripe) mangoes.

In Colombo make sure to haggle for your fruit, and you'll get some great deals!

Viharamahadevi Park
Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park is the central and largest park in Colombo. It makes a fantastic place to spend a day of family time, picnicking and relaxation!

Sri Lankan Lions
Sri Lankan Lions

Just as depicted on the Sri Lankan national flag, the Sri Lankan lion is one of the famous symbols of the country. Though it became extinct many many years ago, its legend lives on.

Sri Lankan Food
Sri Lankan Food

Some of the most delicious Sri Lankan street food is available in the evenings along Colombo's coastline known as Galle Face.

Make sure to sample the rice and fish curry as well as the piping hot roti paratha flatbreads.

Galle Face, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Galle Face, Colombo, Sri Lanka

Every evening Galle Face comes alive with Colombo residents enjoying outdoor activities like flying kites, taking a walk, playing in the water or just soaking up the cool Indian Ocean breeze.

Sunset at Mt. Lavinia
Sunset at Mount Lavinia

Gorgeous sunsets over the ocean are an everyday occurrence in Colombo.

One of the best places to grab a cool drink and gawk at the beautiful view is from an area of town known as Mount Lavinia.

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About Mark Wiens

Mark was raised in central Africa before migrating back to the U.S. for university. After graduating, he decided to continue traveling the world. On Migrationology, he shares the cultural side of travel from a slow-paced local perspective that often revolves around his love for eating all forms of food. Join him on Facebook and follow him on YouTube.

Comments

  1. James Shannon says

    December 20, 2011 at 9:26 pm

    WOW! For some reason I never thought Columbo was on the coast ... the oceanfront, as well as the plate of Sri Lankan food makes me want to go ASAP...!

  2. Andi of My Beautiful Adventures says

    December 21, 2011 at 9:35 am

    Looks like an incredible place! Love the 3rd shot!!!

  3. Grace says

    December 22, 2011 at 8:38 am

    Wow, great photos! I love the ones of the food. You did a really good job capturing the spirit of the city!

  4. sham says

    June 18, 2012 at 2:58 am

    I have to agree with Andi here, the third shot itself is a landscape of Sri Lankan culture...

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