Location: Colombo
Top Things to do in Colombo
10 Nature & Parks in Colombo That You Shouldn't Miss
Colombo is the gateway to Sri Lanka for most travelers—but don’t be tempted to simply pass through this diverse and interesting city. Take a train ride along the coast to Mount Lavinia, a popular beach, or explore the Talangama Wetland, which several TripAdvisor travelers say is the perfect place to take a break from the bustling streets of the city.
Restaurants in Colombo
1. Kelani River
2. Mount Lavinia Beach
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,509 reviews
Mount Lavinia Beach is located just out of the Colombo city. This beach strip has a lot to offer for the locals as well as the tourists visiting Colombo. Along the beach there are many nice restaurants pubs as well as relaxing areas. As a tourist who is visiting Colombo, Mount Lavinia Beach is a must visit. The weekends could be crowded with locals though, during the week it is relaxing and peaceful. If you would relax at a pool overlooking the ocean or the sunset, The Mount Lavinia Hotel terrace is recommended. You can use the Mount Lavinia Hotel pool for an affordable fee.
Reviewed By Geridog1 - Shanghai, China
Right on our door step. Beaches run for miles. Clean and beautiful sand. People pulling in nets, fishing boats pulled up on shore, restaurants every now and then.
3. Talangama Wetland
4. Galle Face Green
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1,995 reviews
Reviewed By sammyweera - Kandy, Sri Lanka
We enjoyed the evening stroll and watched the sun set beautiful. Nice place to hang out. Just take a seat and enjoy the place. And don’t miss to eat “Wade”.
5. Viharamahadevi Park
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 704 reviews
Reviewed By seevalid - Colombo, Sri Lanka
I have been visiting the colourful Vihara Mahadevi park for over 50 years, then as a youngster and now as a retiree going there for a morning walk and relaxation. I have seen its evolution and the renovations since 1962. It continues to be an oasis in the centre of Colombo city and measures approximately 1000 ha. The walking path along the perimeter is approximately 2 km in length. The park had been originally named after Queen Victoria with her statue adorning the northern entrance facing the colonial style Colombo Town (City) Hall. A large beautiful picturesque Buddha statue has since replaced the Victoria statue. The original Victoria statue now lies at the entrance to Laksala opposite the Southern park entrance. The park was later renamed after the famous historical Lankan queen – Vihara Mahadevi whose statue lies adjacent to one of the prominent walking paths. Buddha statue is a popular photographic location. This oasis in the city is well maintained with its well-manicured green gardens, trees large and small, flowers and flower beds, fountains and many walking paths. In the centre is a little pond where ducks with colourful bills swim around with their natural grace. On the western side of the park is the children’s section with a play-train and a large colourful playhouse with swings, staircases and slides. Kids and adults too can enjoy a snack from the many kiosks that line the path near the playhouse. One can hire a bicycle that you can ride along the specified cycling path. There are many comfortable benches too - often occupied by young dreamy romantic couples. Many people come to the park in the mornings and evenings for a walk. Near the pond are some exercise machines for aerobic exercising. Many families visit here to relax, picnic and spend the day with the family. Bridal groups too come here often early in the mornings for a photographic session. At the south western corner are a war memorial for those who lost their lives during the second world war and the Colombo Public Library. There are adequate public toilets within the park. Parking is available on the roads bounding the park. I was prompted to write this article today (08/02/2020) as I found as many as 26 domesticated elephants at the southern section of the park. They had been brought to Colombo to take part in the colourful annual festival at the nearby Gangarama Buddhist temple. They were being fed with coconut leaves and mahouts were bathing them at a concrete lined pond. Many people had come to witness this spectacle of elephants in the city!
6. Wellawatte Beach
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
The city of Colombo isn't known for great beaches. Still, if you're aching to feel some sand between your toes, you may wanna head to Wellawatte Beach, which is easily reachable by train. Take a leisurely stroll, enjoy the views & watch the fisherman at work.
7. Beira Lake
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 201 reviews
Reviewed By Vachintha - Colombo, Sri Lanka
Beira Lake is one of the most prominent landmarks in Colombo. It's located right at the center of the city and a perfect place that combines beauty and relaxation within the city limits. It is said that the lake used to be much bigger over a century ago, however as of present day, it has been scaled down to about 150 acres as a result of the rapid commercialization. According to the records, the lake has been created by Portuguese to protect their base during 1500s and then evolved to be a landmark during the British ruling and on. As of late, it became famous for a number of recreational activities, such as rowing and yachting. In conclusion, it could be said as a decent place for en evening walk or to relax within the city limits.
8. National Zoological Gardens of Sri Lanka
Overall Ratings
3.0 based on 507 reviews
This zoo features animals from across Asia, as well as a nightly elephant circus.
9. Crow Island Beach Park
10. Gangaramaya Park
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