Colombo Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Travel Planning & First Impressions
Is Colombo worth visiting?
Answer: Travelers have mixed opinions. Many say 1-2 days is enough for sightseeing, focusing on it for shopping, food, and initial acclimatization. Some recommend skipping it entirely for other parts of Sri Lanka.
How many days are enough for Colombo?
Answer: Most travelers suggest 1-3 days is plenty for a first-time visitor.
What’s the best time to visit Colombo?
Answer: While not explicitly stated in most threads, general Sri Lanka travel advice (and implied in some comments about heat) suggests avoiding peak monsoon seasons. However, Colombo can be visited year-round.
Is Colombo a good base for exploring other parts of Sri Lanka?
Answer: Yes, it’s a major transport hub, making it convenient for onward travel by train or car to places like Galle, Kandy, or Sigiriya.
What are the overall vibes of Colombo?
Answer: It’s a bustling, rapidly developing city with a mix of old charm and new infrastructure. It can be crowded and congested.
Things to See & Do
What are the must-see attractions in Colombo?
Answer: Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market, Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque), National Museum, Independence Square.
Is Gangaramaya Temple worth the entrance fee?
Answer: Some travelers feel it’s overpriced for tourists, noting locals rarely pay. It has some unique features like old cars.
What’s good about Galle Face Green?
Answer: It’s a popular oceanfront promenade for relaxation, local food stalls, and sunset views.
Should I visit Pettah Market?
Answer: Yes, it’s a vibrant, chaotic, and authentic local market experience. Be prepared for crowds.
What’s there to do in Colombo beyond major sights?
Answer: Explore local cafes, art galleries, shopping malls (Colombo City Centre, One Galle Face), and consider a cooking class.
Are there any good museums in Colombo?
Answer: The National Museum is frequently mentioned. The Museum of Natural History is also an option.
Is the Lotus Tower worth visiting?
Answer: Mentioned as a potential attraction, but not a universal must-do.
Are there any nice parks or green spaces?
Answer: Viharamahadevi Park is a prominent one, and Baddegana Wetland Park is also mentioned.
What about Geoffrey Bawa’s architecture?
Answer: Bawa residencies are recommended for architecture enthusiasts.
Any unique experiences in Colombo?
Answer: Floating market (though some say it was better pre-COVID), escape rooms, karting at Port City.
Are there any animal attractions?
Answer: Dehiwala Zoo is an option.
What about couple-friendly places for a few hours?
Answer: Various cafes, restaurants with good ambiance, and some hotels offer day-use packages.
Things to do on a rainy day in Colombo?
Answer: Shopping malls (Colombo City Centre, One Galle Face), museums, art galleries, cooking classes.
Are there any good places for solo activities?
Answer: Exploring markets, visiting museums, trying new restaurants, joining a cooking class.
Is there anything unique to purchase in Colombo?
Answer: Gemstones (with caution), local crafts, tea, and clothes from local boutiques.
Food & Drink
What are the must-try local dishes in Colombo?
Answer: Kottu (especially cheese kottu), rice and curry, hoppers (especially egg hoppers and “bithara appa”), pol sambol, seeni sambol.
Where can I find the best Kottu in Colombo?
Answer: Plaza Kolpity (though some say quality has declined), and various street food stalls.
Any recommendations for authentic Sri Lankan food?
Answer: Upali’s by Nawaloka, Ceylon Curry Club, Thuna Paha (Waters Edge), Palmyrah Restaurant.
Where to go for good Indian food in Colombo?
Answer: Shanmugas (for Dosa/veg), Dwaraka, Thalis, Peshawri at ITC (unique dishes).
Best places for seafood in Colombo?
Answer: Ministry of Crab is highly recommended for crab and prawns.
Any good pizza places?
Answer: Vitos Pizza (Arcade Independence Square), Aqua Pizza (Park Street), Giovanni’s.
Where can I find good Chinese food?
Answer: Chinese Drago Cafe (Hot Butter Cuttlefish), 88 Chinese Restaurant (Shrimp Fried Rice, Hot Butter Cuttlefish, Prawn Balls).
Recommendations for desserts?
Answer: Crepe Runner, Chocoholics, Jagro’s (Jagro mess).
Are there good buffets in Colombo?
Answer: Cinnamon Grand (Breakfast Buffet), Plates (dinner buffet), Jetwing Colombo 7 (breakfast).
What about street food?
Answer: Aluthkade Street Food (BBQ Chicken), be cautious and check for hygiene.
Are there good coffee shops or cafes?
Answer: Cafe on the 5th, Commons, Coffee Colombo (Marine Drive).
Any vegetarian-friendly restaurants?
Answer: Ranbath Organic (vegetarian restaurant), Shanmugas (dosas/veg).
What’s “waw malu” (tank fish)?
Answer: Fish caught from rivers (not the sea), often fried and highly recommended for its taste.
Is it safe to eat at roadside stalls?
Answer: Locals advise caution and to be extra careful.
What’s the tipping culture like in Colombo?
Answer: Close to non-existent, but tips (LKR 50-100 or 5-10%) are appreciated for good service, especially if a service charge isn’t included.
Accommodation
What are some good 5-star hotels in Colombo?
Answer: Shangri-La Colombo, Hilton Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside, Taj Samudra.
Do 5-star hotels in Colombo have private beaches?
Answer: Generally no, most city hotels don’t have private beach access. You’d need to look outside Colombo (e.g., Bentota, Negombo).
Are there budget-friendly accommodation options in Colombo?
Answer: Airbnb offers various options for different budgets. Hostels are available for solo travelers.
Any recommendations for hotels near the airport?
Answer: Negombo is a popular beach town near the airport with many hotels (e.g., Jetwing Hotels).
How to find good hotels for couples with a day-use option?
Answer: Some hotels offer day packages. Morven was mentioned as having a 10K LKR day-use room offer. Google Hotels can filter by facilities and budget.
Transportation
What’s the best way to get around Colombo?
Answer: Ride-hailing apps like PickMe and Uber are highly recommended for short distances and are generally safer and more reliable than unmetered tuk-tuks.
Are tuk-tuks safe in Colombo?
Answer: Generally safe, but agree on a price beforehand or insist on using the meter to avoid overcharging. It’s often better to use PickMe or Uber for tuk-tuks to ensure a fair price.
Is it advisable to rent a car and drive myself?
Answer: Not recommended unless you have experience driving in chaotic conditions like Sri Lanka’s. Bus drivers can be aggressive.
Should I hire a driver for my trip?
Answer: Yes, hiring a driver for longer trips or your entire stay is a popular and recommended option for safety and flexibility. Many companies offer this service.
How much does a hired driver typically cost?
Answer: Around $44 USD/day (2017 prices), plus potential extra fees for driver accommodation if the hotel doesn’t provide it.
What about public transport within Colombo?
Answer: Buses are available but can be very crowded and inefficient for tourists, especially during rush hours.
Are long-distance taxis available?
Answer: Yes, taxis are available for long distances. Hotels can often arrange them, or companies like Kangaroo Cabs.
How reliable are Kangaroo Cabs?
Answer: Highly recommended by locals for airport pickups/drops and general reliability.
Are ride-hailing apps available outside Colombo?
Answer: PickMe operates outside Colombo, but may be more pricey or face resistance from local taxi mafias in some tourist areas (e.g., Dambulla, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Galle, Southern coast).
What’s the deal with bus travel in Sri Lanka?
Answer: Very cheap, but crowded. Highway buses have limited seats, regular buses can be packed. Drivers are known for driving aggressively.
Any tips for using buses?
Answer: Get in if you see an empty seat or it’s not too crowded. Always have small change.
Safety & Scams
Is Colombo safe for tourists?
Answer: Generally safe if you’re cautious and aware. Most incidents are related to scams or petty crime, not violent crime.
What are common scams to watch out for?
Answer:
“Friendly locals” offering to be tour guides then demanding tips.
Tuk-tuk drivers taking longer routes or overcharging (insist on meter or use apps).
Drivers taking you to shops where they get commissions.
People asking for money for fake charities (schools, orphanages).
Fake or overpriced gemstone/jewelry sales.
How can I avoid tuk-tuk scams?
Answer: Use PickMe or Uber. If not available, insist on the meter before getting in. If they refuse, find another tuk-tuk.
Is it safe for solo female travelers in Colombo?
Answer: Generally safe, but heightened caution is advised. Some travelers reported unwanted male attention. Avoid going out alone at night and be wary of lone drivers. Dress modestly.
Should I disclose I’m a solo female traveler?
Answer: Some advise acting like you have family/boyfriend/husband also traveling but are currently alone.
Are there any areas to avoid at night?
Answer: Less touristy or remote areas can be poorly lit; plan travel during the day.
What about drug-related issues?
Answer: Stay away from drugs, and you should be fine, as many local safety issues are related to the drug trade.
Is it safe to drink alcohol alone?
Answer: Some advise against drinking alcohol alone unless with trusted company.
Is there a “taxi mafia” in some areas?
Answer: Yes, in some tourist areas outside Colombo (Dambulla, Anuradhapura, Kandy, Galle, Southern coast), ride-hailing apps may face resistance from local taxi drivers. Be mindful of this when booking app taxis.
Budget & Money
How much should I budget per day in Colombo/Sri Lanka?
Answer: For a duo, around $60 USD/day for decent lodging, good food, and tuk-tuk rides. For solo travelers, some managed around 10,000 LKR ($30-35 USD) per day excluding accommodation, eating out and using public transport. Mid-range budgets could be $50-100 USD/day.
Is Sri Lanka cheap for tourists after devaluation?
Answer: Yes, generally very cheap against the dollar.
Should I carry cash or use cards?
Answer: Most medium to high-end places accept cards/QR payments, but it’s good to carry cash as not all places do. ATMs are widely available.
Are cigarettes expensive in Sri Lanka?
Answer: Yes, reportedly about 4x the price. Smokers might consider bringing their own.
Are there budget-friendly hotels for short stays?
Answer: Yes, around 10,000-15,000 LKR for day-use hotels for couples.
Connectivity & Communication
What’s the best mobile network provider for tourists?
Answer: Dialog has the best coverage, but Mobitel is also recommended for better data deals and reception.
Should I get a local SIM card?
Answer: Yes, it’s recommended for connectivity and using ride-hailing apps.
Is Wi-Fi widely available?
Answer: Most accommodations, especially mid-range and high-end, should have decent Wi-Fi.
Is English widely spoken?
Answer: You can get by with English, especially in tourist areas.
Are there any local phrases I should know?
Answer: “Vanakkam” (hello) and “Nandri” (thank you) in Tamil can earn you brownie points.
Culture & Etiquette
How should I dress when visiting religious sites?
Answer: Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees. Some recommend dressing in all white when visiting temples.
What’s the local attitude towards tourists?
Answer: Generally nice, locals appreciate consideration. However, be sensible and aware of potential scams.
Any specific cultural customs to be aware of?
Answer: Embrace the diversity, try local cuisine, and be respectful of local customs.
Nightlife
What’s the nightlife like in Colombo?
Answer: Mixed opinions. Some say it’s “dead” after 10:30 pm/12 am compared to other cities, while others mention specific clubs and bars.
Any popular nightclubs or bars in Colombo?
Answer: Octopussy, Liv (small but lively), Love Bar, Industri, Kava, CocoBar, Park Street Mews (good spot).
Is it easy for a group of guys to get into clubs?
Answer: Mentioned as a potential concern in some threads, but no concrete answers on strict policies.
What’s the general vibe of Colombo clubs?
Answer: Some describe it as “rich kids trying to impress themselves.”
Are there late-night food options?
Answer: Street food can be available late, depending on the area.
Health & Wellness
What should I do about the weather?
Answer: Weather can be unpredictable, take necessary precautions (e.g., staying hydrated, sun protection, rain gear).
Are there any specific health concerns for travelers?
Answer: Not explicitly detailed, but general travel advice applies (e.g., food hygiene, insect repellent).
Other Specific Questions
How long does it take to get from Colombo airport to Sigiriya by taxi?
Answer: Around 3 hours by taxi. Public transport is longer (around 5 hours with changes).
Is it possible to explore Colombo during an 8-hour layover?
Answer: It’s tight but possible to see a few key sights if you’re efficient with transport (e.g., taxi to Fort Area, Galle Face Green).
What’s the best beach near Colombo?
Answer: Negombo is a beach town about an hour from Colombo and close to the airport.
Are there any good places to visit with friends in Colombo?
Answer: Colombo City Centre (bowling, arcade, cinema), One Galle Face (cinema, shopping), Port City (karting, ATV, horse riding), escape rooms.
Where can I find local events in Colombo?
Answer: Keep an eye on events at the BMICH or Nelum Pokuna.
Is it worth visiting Negombo before Colombo?
Answer: Yes, it’s close to the airport and offers a different vibe with beach access.
Any recommendations for a local food tour?
Answer: Consider exploring Pettah Market or specific restaurants mentioned for authentic experiences.
What are the best hotels for good views in Colombo?
Answer: Not specifically mentioned by name, but look for hotels along the marine drive or higher floors in central areas.
Where can I find an authentic Sri Lankan cooking class?
Answer: Some travelers mention doing cooking classes, though specific providers aren’t often named.
What’s the cost of living for a single person in Colombo?
Answer: Varied, but can be managed on a budget with careful spending.
Is Colombo very different from the rest of Sri Lanka?
Answer: Yes, Colombo is more developed and urbanized compared to other parts of the country.
Are there any good places for sunset views?
Answer: Galle Face Green is a popular spot.
Can I find places with outdoor seating for dining?
Answer: Yes, many restaurants and cafes offer outdoor seating.
Where can I find good “hot butter cuttlefish”?
Answer: Chinese Drago Cafe is highly recommended for this dish.
Are there good places for fine dining in Colombo?
Answer: Hotels like Cinnamon Grand, Shangri-La, and Hilton offer upscale dining options.
What about local bakeries for breakfast?
Answer: Many local bakeries offer breakfast items, though prices might be European-style for non-local options.
Is it easy to meet locals or other travelers?
Answer: Hostels are good for meeting other travelers. Engaging with locals in markets or through shared activities can lead to connections.
What kind of souvenirs should I look for?
Answer: Tea, spices, local handicrafts, textiles.
How reliable is Google Maps in Colombo?
Answer: Widely used and generally reliable for getting around. Download offline maps for areas with potentially poor reception.
Is Colombo generally seen as a holiday destination or a transit city? * Answer: Often considered more of a transit city or a place for a short stopover rather than a primary holiday destination, especially by those who prefer nature and cultural sites elsewhere in Sri Lanka.