'''Colombo''' is the largest city and the business center of Sri Lanka.
Understand
Weather wise, the best time to visit is during the North East monsoon season, which is November to April. Despite the ongoing conflict, Sri Lanka is relatively safe if you avoid the trouble spots and common targets of insurgents.
Get in
By plane
There is air service to and from Colombo, provided by the national airline Sri Lankan Airlines. Flights are available from origins throughout Europe, United States, Southeast Asia, China, Japan, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan. Other airlines, include Qatar Airlines and Emirates. If you were to Fly Emirates, you can stop over in Colombo on your way to Singapore (e.g. Dubai - Colombo - Singapore)
Sri Lanka's only international airport, '''Bandaranaike International''', is at Katunayake, close to Negombo, on the coast north of Colombo. The journey to Colombo will take about an hour by taxi.
By train
Train service from Bandaranayeka International Airport to Colombo does not exist. However, you can take a train from Ja Ela to Colombo.
By bus
The Sri Lanka Transport Board is the nationalized bus service. Buses are the principal mode of transport in the county. If you cannot speak or understand Sinhalese, however, traveling by bus is not advised.
By boat
Indian Ocean Cruises [http://indianoceancruises.net/] operates a cruise liner to Colombo as part of its itinerary along the West Coast of India and to the uninhabited Lakshwadeep Islands.
Getting into Colombo from Katunayake airport
'''By Taxi'''
'''Local Taxi (mini van)'''
The taxi service provided by the taxi counter in the arrivals hall is one option. They provide a mini van without air conditioning, but it will be about a third cheaper than taxis provided by 'hotels'. It is worth noting that this service is primarily intended for the locals, so the counter staff may try to persuade you to go to one of the 'hotel taxi' counters outside the arrivals hall but insist that you only want a mini van.
'''Hotel Taxi'''
Most 4 or 5 star hotels have their own counter just outside the arrivals hall. You can get a taxi from one of these places. They will provide an air conditioned car. As of May 2009, the cost to Galle Face could be about Rs 2,800 (nearly 25 US$).
'''By Bus'''
This is the cheapest way to get into Colombo, but will take some effort and time. There are private, air conditioned mini buses from Katunayake airport to Colombo Fort (where the main railway station is). These buses used to stop outside the airport but as of Dec 2007, they start from the '''bus depot''' just outside the airport. You can get there by '''free shuttle''' or walk (about 10 - 15 mins). To catch a shuttle bus, come out of the airport, turn left and walk all the way to the end of the building. You will not find any signs, so be sure to ask airport personnel.
The journey into '''Colombo Fort''' could take anything between an hour and fifteen to two hours. The bus will stop at major towns en route . They also have collapsible seats along the aisle which will get used as the bus becomes busy so, try to get a seat at the front. The one opposite the door is preferable! Ask the conductor to tell you when the bus gets to the Fort station (as opposed to the Colombo bus depot). Note that some buses do not go as far as the Fort station and stop at the bus depot, which is about 5 min walk from the station. Others go via the depot to fort station and then double back to the bus depot.
Once you reach Colombo Fort, you can get a three-wheeler (tuk-tuk) to get to your destination. You will pay a little premium for catching a tuk-tuk from the bus station or outside Fort station (on the main road so there will be a choice of tuk-tuks) but it should not cost more than Rs 150 to go to hotels near Galle Face (e.g. Cinnamon Grand, Taj or Galle Face Hotel).
You can also catch a bus to Galle Face (less than Rs 10) but you will not be welcome on-board with large luggage; however, a backpack may be accepted.
Get around
Getting around by '''Tri-shaw''' ('''Three wheeler''', '''tuk-tuk''') is most convenient. These three-wheelers do not have any Meters fitted with them and so you have to always negotiate and agree on a price before you take a trip. Shorter trips can cost you anywhere from Rs. 50 (for around 2 - 3 kms) to Rs. 250 (for 8 kms). Do not settle for first rikshaw you get, they will fleece you that way. Look for at least 3 or 4 three-wheelers before you settle down).
'''Taxis''' are also a good mode of transportation. The cars often have meters starting on Rs. 40 and charge about Rs. 65 per kilometer. You seldom pay more than Rs. 200 for a trip inside Colombo. Rs. 500 will get you to Mount Lavinia. Taxis are much safer than a three-wheeler and offer you the option of air conditioning.
CFA
Colombo has recently become a major destination for Indian candidates appearing for CFA Exam. CFA exam, held by CFA Institute, USA, has not been allowed to conduct its premier examination in India in past few years. Colombo offers a cheap destination to Indian candidates as compared to Singapore or Bangkok.
The June 2008 exam was held at Hotel Galadari at Galle Road and the December 2008 exam was held at Postgraduate Institute of Management (PIM), British Council and Saraswathi Hall. Except Saraswathi Hall, all examination centers are pretty comfortable.
Indian Candidates can take Air India Express from Chennai to Colombo which offers very cheap rates (around INR 6,000 for round trip) and offers food in the flight too.
See
Museums
'''The National Museum of Colombo''' - Department of National Museums, Colombo 7. Tel: ''11'' 269-4767. Closed Fridays and all public holidays. 9AM-5PM. Also known as the Sri Lanka National Museum, it is the largest museum in Colombo. Among its exhibits, it contains regalia of the 17th century Kandyan Kings.
'''The Natural History Museum'''- Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 7. Tel: ''11'' 269-1399. Closed Fridays and all public holidays. 9AM-5PM. This museum features Sri Lanka's floral and fauna in dioramas.
'''The Dutch Period Museum'''- 95 Prince Street, Pettha, Colombo 11. Tel: ''11'' 244-8466. Closed Fridays and all public holidays. 9AM-5PM. Historical museum documenting Dutch colonial rule in Sri Lanka. Houses Dutch-inspired artifacts.
Galleries
'''The Sapumal Foundation'''- 32/4 Barnes Place, Colombo 7. Tel: ''11'' 269-5731. The Sapumal Foundation was once home to the late Harry Pieris. Visitors are able to see his studio and art materials that have been left undisturbed over the years. This gallery also contains 200 paintings that follow the development of Sri Lankan art. Special art classes are also available at the gallery.
'''The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Center'''- 18 Guilford Crescent, Colombo 7. M-Fr 9AM-1PM and 2-4PM. Tel: ''11'' 269-5794. The Art Center provides a multi-functional creative experience with exhibitions, art shows and stage events. Visitors to the Art Center area also able to purchase various antiques as well as paintings and crafts by contemporary Sri Lankan artists.
Do
'''Visit Galle Face Green Promenade''' at sundown for a spectacular view. The promenade stretches 13 acres between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean; it tends to attract children, teenagers, vendors, and families. Usually on Saturday and Sunday evenings, the land is filled with day-trippers, food vendors, and people picnicking. The Galle Face Green Promenade was reopened to the public in May of 2001.
'''Colombo Zoological Gardens'''- Colombo's zoo has a wide variety of animals, birds, and reptiles from all over the world. One of the most popular attractions to the zoo is the elephant show, which is held daily at 5:15PM. The zoo also offers elephant and pony rides. Currently, the zoo is being renovated, and plans to have an open area for the elephants.
Buy
'''Barefoot''' handicraft store, 706 Galle Road, Colombo 03. [http://www.barefootceylon.com]. Has a wide range of good quality souvenirs and handmade items: clothes, bags, and children toys, from some of the most beautifully-colored fabric you've ever seen.
'''Lakmedura''', 113 Dharmapala Road, Colombo 07 An organization run by the tour guides association. Offers mass produced products at unbelievably high prices. It is better to omit it from one's itinerary although many tour companies, operators, guides and trishaw drivers will pester you to visit it.
'''Lakpahana''' [http://www.lakpahana.com], 14 Reid Avenue, Colombo 07 A non-profit organization run by the craftsman association of Sri Lanka with assistance from the government. Offers all handicrafts and gemstone jewelery. Unique metalware, wood carvings,silver jewelery,batik ,textile products and other crafts. Only member in Sri Lanka of the World Craft Council and winner of several international awards therefore all our products come with an international guarantee.The only place where quality exceeds price.
'''Majestic City''' in Kollupitaya on Galle Road has a wide variety of clothing outlets - including a sub-branch of '''Odel''' - at very good prices, as well as various electrical goods and toy shops. It's pleasantly air-conditioned and includes a food court on the ground floor.
'''Odel''' [http://www.odel.lk/] No 5, Alexandra Place, Colombo - 7. A stylish department store, with its very own Delifrance outlet, clothing, houseware, sporting goods, books and movies, as well as Delight ? for sweet indulgences from chocolates to exotic nuts.
'''The Pettah Market''', this is the place to go for shopping for all kinds of things from fruits to clothes to electronics if you want to buy at wholesale prices. You have to bargain extensively and it is recommended that you take a local you trust along with you. Even if you don't buy anything, Pettah, or Colombo 11 is an experience in itself being a very typical, loud and crowded oriental market place full of all sorts of odds, ends and junk.
Eat
Budget
Buy a "lunch packet" from street stands practically anywhere in the city. Typically, it will be filling meal of rice and vegetables for about Rs 80.
Also available everywhere are small bakeries selling rotis (either flat or folded into triangles filled with egg, vegetable or fish), hoppers (bowl shaped pancakes made with coconut milk), and other "short eats" (bread based snacks or fried foods). Individual items are range from Rs. 10-50.
Mid-range
'''The Cricket Club Cafe''', 34 Queens Road, Colombo 03. This cafe is a must for any cricket lover. The walls are covered in autographed memorabilia and photos with sports (''usually cricket'') being screened on all the TVs scattered throughout the rooms. They serve authentic Aussie cuisine and a wide variety of drinks.
'''The Gallery Cafe''', 2 Alfred House Road, Off Alfred House Gardens, Colombo 3. Wonderful atmosphere in beautiful building - designed by famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Large food menu featuring many international dishes, decadent desserts and extensive cocktail menu.
The Lagoon. he Colombo Plaza Hotel, 77 Steuart Place / 77 Galle Road, Colombo 03. 94 11 243-7437. 2-2:30PM, 7PM-12:30am. ull meal: 4000 Rs. per person. This restaurant focuses primarily on seafood with colorful Sri Lankan flavors. The friendly, professional staff are able to create an enjoyable dining experience.
Mango Tree. 2 Dharmapala Mawatha; Colombo 03. 94 11 537-9790, 11 537-9791. nfo@themangotree.lk. 2?3PM; 7?11PM, 7 days a week. ull meal: 1000 Rs. per person. One of the finest restaurants in the city. North Indian Cuisine, full of innovative dishes. Service is occasionally slow.
'''The Palmyrah Restaurant''', 328 Galle Road, Colombo 3. Serves excellent Sri Lankan dishes as well as having an "international" menu.
Splurge
'''Nihonbashi Main Restaurant''', 11 Galle Face Terrace, Colombo 3. There are three Nihonbashi outlets in Colombo. A Sushi Bar at ODEL and a outlet at the Hilton Colombo Residence are the other two. The main restaurant is an airy and spacious restaurant with a blend of modern and tradional in design consisting of 8 private dining rooms also a dine-in wine room. Nihonbashi is owned and run by Tokyo-born Dharshan Munidasa, a self-taught chef.
'''Spoons''', Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Colombo 1. Spoons offers a 5-course meal at a reasonable price. This cozy, contemporary restaurant will provide you with a break from the local cuisines.
'''Ginza Hosen''', Colombo Hilton, Echelon Square, Colombo 1. This is one of the Japanese restaurants in Colombo. They have a sushi bar, the tatami rooms and ever teppanyaki.
'''Chesa Swiss''', 3 Deal Place, Colombo 3. Representing the best of Swiss cuisine, this restaurant has all your favorites from fresh garden snails to Chateaubriand for two to steak Cafe de Paris style! The wine list is exclusively Swiss.
'''The London Grill''', Cinnamon Grand Hotel. As the name suggests this restaurant is very British. It probably has the best ambiance of all, and the food is just great. Located at the Colombo Plaza (which used to be called the Lanka Oberoi).
'''Royal Thai''', 115 Sir Chittampalam A. Gardiner Mawatha, Colombo 02. Located at the TransAsia Hotel (Ramada), is an authentic Thai restaurant hosting the usual favorites, such as Tom Yam and Chicken Pandan leaves.
Drink
'''Thembili ??????''' (Orange Coconut juice) is the safest, since they cut it open in front of you (uncontaminated).
'''Spring water''' with SLS certification are safe to drink.
Sleep
Colombo offers many accommodation options for every budget.
Budget
Hotel Ranmuthu. 12, Galle Road. 94 11 243-3986. Hotel Ranmuthu is comprised of 54 rooms, which are available in single, doubles, or suites. The hotel is located 45 minutes away from the airport. Rooms are air-conditioned, and there is 24-hour security on the premises. The hotel also offers currency exchanges and room service.
Hotel Janaki. 43, Fife Rd, Colombo 5. This 3-star hotel offers its guests rooms with air-conditioning, cable/satellite tv, and a room safe. There is a restaurant and bar on site, with 24-hour room service.
Sapphire Hotel. 71, Galle Rd, Colombo 6. 94 11 258-3306. ttp://www.hotelsapphirelk.com. Located 5 minutes away from the ocean, Sapphire Hotel is a luxurious accommodation that offers its guests an on-site restaurant and bar. Each room includes air-conditioning, 24-hour room service, and satellite television. The hotel also has two reception halls for those wishing to host a convention or wedding reception. Reservations are required.
Hotel Sansu. 51/31, Sir Oliver Gunathilake Gardens, Colombo 05. ff of Elvitigala Mawatha. 94 11 236-8450. otel@sansu.lk. 94 11 535-4348. ww.sansu.lk/hotel.html. Hotel Sansu offers luxury that will not break your budget. The hotel is comprised of 26 rooms and self-service apartments, each of which includes cable television. It offers its guests 24-hour front desk services, as well as wake-up calls and an on-site juice bar.
Mid range
Berjaya Mount Royal Beach Hotel. 6 College, Mount Lavinia. 94 11 273-9610. ttp://www.berjaya-mountroyal.com/. erjaya@slt.lk. 94 11 273-3030. Experience the exotic charm of Sri Lanka at Berjaya Mount Royal Beach Hotel, famed for its mystical ancient cities, natural beauty, cultural diversity and historical heritage that spans over 2000 years old. Located a few miles south of Colombo, in the city of Mount Lavinia, the hotel stands as the perfect setting for both business and pleasure.
Hotel Renuka & Renuka City Hotel. 28 Galle Road, Colombo 3. 94 11 257-3598. enukaht@renukahotel.com. ttp://www.renukahotel.com. One of the more famous hotels in Colombo, these sister hotels offers their guests comfortable rooms and friendly service. Each room is equipped with flat screen televisions with local and cable channels, 24-hour room service, safety deposit lockers, and internet connections. The hotels themselves house one of the most famous restaurants in Sri Lanka, the Palmyrah, which serves authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. A favorite dish among travelers and locals alike is the Iso Thel Dala, spicy prawns sauteed with onions and tomato. The hotel also offers its guests two bars on site: the Palmyrah Bar and the Water Hole bar.
Galle Face Hotel. Galle Road, Colombo 3. 94 11 254-1010. eservations@gallefacehotel.net. ttp://www.gallefacehotel.com/html_regency/home_regency.htm. One of the most luxurious and famous hotels in Sri Lanka, the Galle Face Hotel provides its guests with rooms that include private bathrooms, air-conditioning, and televisions. Most rooms come with a view of the ocean or the Galle Face Green. The hotel also has a variety of restaurants on site to choose from, including: The 1864 and Verandah. Spa and butler services are also available for guests.
Garden Guest House. hitru@sltnet.lk. Karlsruhe Gardens, Colombo 8. 94 11 269-7919. This three-room guest house offers its visitors attached bathrooms, free internet services and laundry facilities. The staff at the guest house can also arrange island tours and airport pick-up.
Palm Village Hotel. 62, Old Colombo Road, Uswetakeiyawa (Hendala). 94 11 479-5114. vhl1@sltnet.lk. 94 11 293-0766. ttp://www.palmvillagehotel.com/. Located close to the airport, this hotel consists of 50 air-conditioned rooms with either a balcony or a terrace. A restaurant and bar are located on the hotel grounds. There is also a jewelry and souvenir shop for guests.
Splurge
Splurge
The Havelock Place Bungalow. -8, Havelock Place, Colombo 5. 94 11 258-5191. 94 11 258-4655. Colombo_fs first boutique hotel, consisting of two restored colonial homes. Tastefully decorated using antique colonial furniture. The hotel provides wireless Internet, pool, jacuzzi, restaurants.
Hotel Galadari. , Lotus Road, Colombo 1. 94 11 254-4544. nfo@galadarihotel.lk. 94 11 244-9875. ww.galadarihotel.lk. Hotel Galadari is made up of 446 rooms, including 23 suites. There are special executive level and handicap rooms available. There are a variety of dining facilities in the hotel to suit different palettes. The hotel also offers its guests spa and fitness facilities.
Ceylon Continental. 8 Janadhipathi Mawatha, Colombo 1. 94 11 242-1221. otel@ceyloncontinental.com. ww.colombocontinental.com. Ceylon Continental is equipped with 250 all with magnificent views of the city or Indian Ocean. The hotel has many restaurants and cafes on site to choose from. The guests are also offered 24-hour room service, fitness facilities, and spa services.
Cinnamon Grand Colombo. 7 Galle Road,Colombo 3. 94 11 243-7437. The luxurious Cinnamon Grand hotel in Colombo features nightly turn down services with orchids and chocolates, and spa services!
Taj Samudra. 5, Galle Face Center Road, Colombo 3. 94 11 244-6622. ww.tajhotels.com/luxury/tajsamudra_colombo/new.htm. Taj Samudra features a variety of rooms depending on your travel habits; they range from standards with views of the sea and pool to presidential suites with separate dining and dressing areas. The hotel is also equipped with a fitness center, book shop and swimming pool. There are also a variety of restaurants ranging from casual in dress to fine dining.
Stay safe
Colombo is like most other South Asian capitals. Although it is not as dangerous as one would think, tourists should be very vigilant. Many first time travelers to Colombo find themselves falling victim to scams and touts. Be on guard for anybody trying to help you by giving you unsolicited directions or travel advice. Take any advice from taxi and auto drivers with a grain of salt, especially if they tell you the place you want to go to is closed, dangerous, etc. If you are unsure, check a map. If you have been told your hotel is closed or full, give them a call. If you are a first time visitor to Sri Lanka, don't admit it as it will make you a target for the scam artists.
Once you are past the scammers, Colombo is a far more welcoming destination than other South Asian ones. Certainly single women, although not advised to explore every nook and cranny of the city on their own late at night, will not find the pestering attentions of leering men that they may do in some cities in Sri Lanka's big brother to the north. There is civil war on in full swing in the north of Sri Lanka. This will not affect your journey as this area is off limits to civilians and is hundreds of miles away from Colombo. Furthermore, there have also been some small bomb attacks on Colombo buses and trains. You are advised to use taxis or private hire cars at all times. Such attacks are noted for their avoidance of tourist spots, mainly due to the severe adverse publicity this would create. However, the country is nowhere close to descending into all out civil war affecting the whole country.
Get out
'''Mount Lavinia''' is a great place to be. The beach and the friendly people always draw visitors there and keep them for awhile. Unlike the South of the island, Mt.Lavinia is only abut 20 minutes away from the city and entertains a good deal of nightlife. Along the beach are a variety of restaurants that serve liquor (by restaurants along the beach I mean they are literally ON the beach, 50 feet away from the water and tables on the sand) have great food catered to suit every budget. The variety of the the beach spots themselves are interesting, from nice little coves for a quiet chat a and a drink to well lit, busy places with dance floors, music courtesy of a live DJ and well stocked bars. Try '''Jo Jo's''', a quiet little place where they serve pretty decent food and drink and has a nice homey feel to it.The Owner Mr Jo, Jo, (Mr Nihal) better know, is a nice person. Stay in '''Berjaya Mount Royal Beach Hotel[http://www.berjayaresorts.com/beachresort_mountroyal.htm]''' to experience its unique.
Also available is another hotel '''Mount Lavinia Hotel [http://www.mountlaviniahotel.com/]''' which is twice as expensive at Berjaya Mount Royal Beach Hotel.
'''Sigiriya''', located 100 miles northeast of Colombo, is a very important Buddhist site in Sri Lanka. The remains of the ancient fortress and city date back to 477 AD. Legend has it, King Kasyapa built it in order to protect against attacks from his brother, whom he had stolen the throne from. The only way into the city is through the giant lion's jaws. The site is also famous for its 5th century frescos. Sigiriya is approximately 2-3 hours away from Colombo, and can be reached via train, bus, or car. It is open daily from 8:30AM to 6PM.
'''Adam's Peak''' is considered a place of worship and pilgrimage by many religions. The 7,297 foot peak, also known as Sri Pada, is home to a foot imprint on a rock at its summit. Depending on the faith, the foot print has been considered that of Buddha, the god Shiva, St. Thomas, and even, Adam after he was expelled from the garden of Eden. The stairway to the top is believed to be one of the longest in the world. After reaching the top, climbers can ring the bell to mark the journey the just made. The panoramic view that one gets makes the journey well-worth the effort.
Located 75 miles outside of Colombo, '''Kandy''' is a small, tranquil town that holds the sacred tooth of Buddha, a sacred relic of the Buddhist faith. According to the legend, the tooth was stolen from the Buddha on his funeral pyre and was smuggled into Sri Lanka hidden in the hair of a princess in the 4th century. The Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Tooth, is a main attraction for pilgrimages. Each July and August, the tooth is carried in a procession. Although one cannot see the tooth, the festivities are a site to see.