9 Days in Colombo: A Journey of Culture and Adventure

Pamuditha Imalka

13 Dec 2023

Embark on a thrilling 9-day adventure in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and history of this vibrant city. From stunning beaches to ancient temples, this itinerary has it all. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Trip to Colombo

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Viator

Day 1Sun, Sand, and Art

$ 1

Scenic beach offering a stretch of sand, waves, lifeguards, hotels & nearby restaurants.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

Free

9 - 11 min

Directions

Artful center offering exhibits of traditional Sri Lankan string puppets, plus performances.

11:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 2Wildlife Encounters and Aviation Marvels

$19

$ 1

Large, long-running zoo with landscaped gardens & many species, plus an aquarium & butterfly garden.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

•

$13

23 - 28 min

Directions

Operational air base of the Sri Lanka Air Force with history exhibits, vintage aircraft & equipment.

11:30 AM - 1:00 PM

•

Day 3Temples, Museums, and Dutch Heritage

$ 1

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

28 - 34 min

Directions

Located within an iconic monument, this compact museum honors the heroes of Sri Lankan independence.

10:30 AM - 12:00 PM

•

Free

18 - 22 min

Directions

Former 17th-century governor's residence now a museum featuring artifacts from Dutch colonial rule.

12:30 PM - 1:30 PM

•

Day 4Artistic Delights and Serene Parks

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

Unassuming art gallery with classical paintings & contemporary pieces by local artists on display.

10:00 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

10 - 15 min

Directions

Relaxed park with jogging trails, kids' play areas, space for picnics & activities like cycling.

12:00 PM - 1:30 PM

•

Free

Day 5Parks, Parliament, and Historical Landmarks

$ 1

60-acre preserve offering footpaths & boardwalks past vibrant vegetation & wildlife.

8:00 AM - 9:00 AM

•

Free

13 - 16 min

Directions

Landscaped waterfront park with a playground, colorful fountains, aquarium & open-air food court.

9:30 AM - 11:30 AM

•

Free

27 - 33 min

Directions

Completed in 1930, this neo-Baroque structure now houses the national Presidential Secretariat.

12:00 PM - 1:00 PM

•

Day 6Spiritual Awakening and Aquatic Adventures

$ 1

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

Aquatic park with underwater tunnels, tanks & ponds, plus exotic birds & educational programs.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Day 7Glamour and Spirituality

$13

$ 1

Busy, unassuming casino with popular table games, a bar & restaurants, including a buffet.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

$13

8 - 10 min

Directions

Historic Buddhist temple with a robust collection of artifacts & statues, plus vocational training.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

Day 8Coastal Bliss and Economic History

Food stalls dot this popular waterfront destination with a long walkway, sandy beach & scenic views.

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM

•

Free

4 - 5 min

Directions

Indian Ocean beach in the heart of Colombo with a busy promenade & the popular Galle Face Green.

10:30 AM - 12:30 PM

•

Free

25 - 38 min

Directions

The Central Point - Economic History Museum

Exhibits on the economy & currency of Sri Lanka, with a collection of ancient & foreign coins.

1:00 PM - 2:30 PM

•

Free

Day 9Fun and Entertainment

Amusement park with rides, video games, bowling, a pool lounge & laser tag, plus a food court.

8:00 AM - 11:00 AM

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Budget breakdown: $58 In total

Activities & Food:$57

Transport:$2