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10 Days in Colombo: A Journey of Culture and Adventure

Vasitharan Thiyakeswaran

Vasitharan Thiyakeswaran

26 Dec 2023

Embark on a 10-day adventure in Colombo, where ancient marvels meet modern wonders. Immerse yourself in the vibrant culture, explore breathtaking temples, stroll through picturesque parks, and indulge in thrilling entertainment. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Day 1Serene Gardens and Nature's Delight
+

$0

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

25 - 30 min

~

Directions

Diyatha Uyana
Landscaped waterfront park with a playground, colorful fountains, aquarium & open-air food court.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
11 - 14 min

~

Directions

Diyasaru Park
60-acre preserve offering footpaths & boardwalks past vibrant vegetation & wildlife.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
Day 2Spiritual Awakening and Aquatic Fun
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$7

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

30 - 36 min

~

Directions

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
Sacred, historic temple said to be visited by the Buddha with paintings by a renowned artist.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
13 - 16 min

~

Directions

Water World Kelaniya
Aquatic park with underwater tunnels, tanks & ponds, plus exotic birds & educational programs.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
$6
Day 3Artistic Wonders and Creative Inspiration
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$0

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$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

12 - 15 min

~

Directions

Lionel Wendt Art Centre
Cultural venue featuring a theater for drama & musicals, an art exhibition area & a basic cafeteria.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
Free
8 - 12 min

~

Directions

National Art Gallery
Unassuming art gallery with classical paintings & contemporary pieces by local artists on display.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Free
Day 4Temples, Parks, and a Glimpse into History
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$7

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

8 - 10 min

~

Directions

Gangaramaya Temple
Historic Buddhist temple with a robust collection of artifacts & statues, plus vocational training.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
14 - 21 min

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Directions

Viharamahadevi Park
Relaxed park with jogging trails, kids' play areas, space for picnics & activities like cycling.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
17 - 21 min

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Directions

Dutch Museum
Former 17th-century governor's residence now a museum featuring artifacts from Dutch colonial rule.
12:30 PM - 1:30 PM
$6
Day 5Glamour, History, and Architectural Splendor
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$19

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

10 - 12 min

~

Directions

Bellagio Colombo
Busy, unassuming casino with popular table games, a bar & restaurants, including a buffet.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
$13
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Old Parliament Building
Completed in 1930, this neo-Baroque structure now houses the national Presidential Secretariat.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
$6
Day 6Fun-filled Entertainment and Traditional Art
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$7

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

13 - 16 min

~

Directions

Excel World Entertainment Park
Amusement park with rides, video games, bowling, a pool lounge & laser tag, plus a food court.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$6
25 - 30 min

~

Directions

Traditional Puppet Art Museum
Artful center offering exhibits of traditional Sri Lankan string puppets, plus performances.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free
Day 7Sun, Sand, and Relaxation at Mount Lavinia Beach
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$0

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$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

28 - 34 min

~

Directions

Mount Lavinia Beach
Scenic beach offering a stretch of sand, waves, lifeguards, hotels & nearby restaurants.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
Free
Day 8Wildlife Encounters and Air Force History
+

$19

·

$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

24 - 29 min

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Directions

Dehiwala Zoological Garden
Large, long-running zoo with landscaped gardens & many species, plus an aquarium & butterfly garden.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
$13
23 - 28 min

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Directions

Sri Lanka Air Force Museum
Operational air base of the Sri Lanka Air Force with history exhibits, vintage aircraft & equipment.
11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
$6
Day 9Sacred Temples and Floating Market Delights
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$0

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$ 1

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

31 - 38 min

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Directions

Bellanwila Raja Maha Viharaya
Iconic temple with a bodhi tree grown from one of the 32 saplings from the sacred Anuradhapura tree.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
33 - 40 min

~

Directions

Pettah Floating Market
Food, clothing, electronics & other goods sold from 90+ stalls, including some on built on boats.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Free
Day 10Beachside Bliss and Stunning Sunset Views
+

$0

Shangri-La Colombo

Depart from your stay 🏨

16 - 23 min

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Directions

Galle Face Beach
Indian Ocean beach in the heart of Colombo with a busy promenade & the popular Galle Face Green.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Free
4 - 5 min

~

Directions

Galle Face Green
Food stalls dot this popular waterfront destination with a long walkway, sandy beach & scenic views.
10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Free

Budget breakdown: $60 In total

Activities & Food:$57
Transport:$4