Colombo is the largest city in Sri Lanka and its commercial capital. It is a melting pot of cultures, cuisines and colonial architectures. Here's a tourist visitor's guide to Colombo:
Getting around:
Colombo has a good public transport system, including buses and trains. Tuk-tuks (three-wheeled motorized vehicles) are commonly used for short trips around the city. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Uber and PickMe are also available.
Things to see and do:
- Gangaramaya Temple: This is a Buddhist temple located in the heart of Colombo. It houses a museum and a library, and is a popular attraction for both locals and tourists.
- National Museum: The museum displays artifacts dating back to prehistoric times, and has a large collection of exhibits on Sri Lankan history, art and culture.
- Galle Face Green: A popular spot for locals to relax and take a stroll along the coast. It offers great views of the Indian Ocean and is a good spot for sunset photography.
- Viharamahadevi Park: A landscaped park with a large Buddha statue, ponds and a children's play area. It's a great option for a family day out.
- Pettah Market: This is a bustling market where vendors sell everything from spices to textiles. It's a great place to delve into local life and try some street food.
Where to eat:
Colombo has a plethora of dining options, ranging from cheap street food to high-end restaurants. Some popular options include:
- Ministry of Crab: This is a seafood restaurant that's known for its crab dishes.
- The Mango Tree: This restaurant serves Sri Lankan cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
- Curry Leaf: A family restaurant that serves a variety of curries and rice dishes.
- Upali's by Nawaloka: This is a local restaurant chain that serves traditional Sri Lankan food.
Where to shop:
- Odel: A popular department store that sells clothes, accessories and souvenirs.
- Paradise Road: This is a boutique store that sells a range of home decor, clothing and jewelry.
- House of Fashions: This is a large shopping mall that sells clothes, shoes and accessories.
Where to stay:
Colombo has a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from hostels to luxury hotels. Some popular options include:
- Cinnamon Grand: A luxury hotel that's located within walking distance of many tourist attractions.
- Galle Face Hotel: A colonial-era hotel located along the coast that offers great views of the ocean.
- Colombo City Hostel: A budget-friendly hostel that's located in the heart of the city.
When to visit:
The best time to visit Colombo is from December to March, when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season runs from May to September, so it's best to avoid visiting during this time.
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