Amid the Indian Ocean, off the coast of India, Sri Lanka is an intriguing island worth the effort to get to, given it has so many charms. The nation’s economic wheels fell off in 202 and tourists opted to look elsewhere for safe stays. However, Sri Lanka appears to be navigating smoother waters of late and is back in the tourism fold.
Its capital, Colombo, is a port city with a rich colonial heritage and a potpourri of races, religions and cultures. It is also a city of contrast that encapsulates the country. If you are lucky to have landed here, you may want to consider these things to do during your stay:
A city tour: Catch the open deck double-decker bus and enjoy Colombo city for what it offers.
Round of golf: If you are getting golf withdrawal symptoms, then The Royal Colombo Golf Club awaits with its immaculately manicured greens. The club has been an oasis for golfers for around 130 years.
Take it to ‘art’: Colombo lacks art treasures and modern galleries. You can pop into the Colombo National Museum for examples of ancient paintings, sculptures and sketches dating back to the 4th century BC. For contemporary art, you can dip into its arts scene.
Dehiwala Zoological Garden: One of the hidden gems is the landscaped 30 acres of the Zoological Gardens. Here, you can enjoy a rich collection of animals, birds, reptiles and fishes that live harmoniously.
Head for a temple: Among the many temples you can visit on the island, the Gangarama Vihara is probably the best, as it is one of the most revered by locals. Admire the decorative brass work, stone carvings, and other Buddhist art.
Indulge: Colombo, for all its faults, like any modern city, has many significant upsides. You can shop at the best shopping malls with latest trends, sit and enjoy some of the best cuisine in Asia, view the Indian Ocean, or check out the fantastic nightlife from clubs to casinos. Or hit the beach in the suburbs.
Whatever your choice or passion, Colombo remains a largely underrated city to enjoy.
Andy Probert is an independent journalist based in Turkey. He writes about travel, aviation, new tech and business. His work has appeared on the BBC, in The Daily Telegraph, Hurriyet Daily News and other newspapers worldwide.
