Lotus Tower
South Asia’s tallest tower, with an observation deck and sweeping views over Colombo, Beira Lake and the ocean.
- Mid-range
- Experience
Gangaramaya Temple
Colombo’s most eclectic Buddhist temple, packed with treasures, plus the serene Seema Malaka pavilion on Beira Lake.
- Budget
- Experience
Pettah Market & the Red Mosque
Colombo’s busiest bazaar district, a maze of market streets around the striking red-and-white Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque.
- Budget
- Experience
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest museum, in a grand colonial building in Colombo 7, home to the throne of the Kandyan kings.
- Budget
- Experience
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Our 4 favourite things to do in Colombo
We have marked 4 things to do in Colombo, each picked by locals rather than ranked by an algorithm. You will find them around Colombo 10, Beira Lake, Colombo 2, Pettah, Colombo 11 and Colombo 7. Prices range from budget to mid-range.
Start with Lotus Tower, Gangaramaya Temple and Pettah Market & the Red Mosque, then use the filters to narrow it down by price.
Good to know
- Go early in the morning for cooler weather and fewer people.
- Sri Lankan citizens pay a much lower local rate at most sites; bring your NIC.
- Cover shoulders and knees, and remove shoes and hats, at temples.
Also in Colombo: Best hotels in Colombo · Hostels & poshtels in Colombo · Best restaurants in Colombo · Best cafés in Colombo. Or see the full Colombo guide.
Good to know
What are the best things to do in Colombo?
Our current picks include Lotus Tower, Gangaramaya Temple and Pettah Market & the Red Mosque. See all 4 on this page, picked by locals.
Are there budget things to do in Colombo?
Yes. Good-value options include Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market & the Red Mosque and National Museum of Colombo. Use the price filter on this page to see them all.
How do you choose the things to do you list in Colombo?
Every place is chosen by our team for its location, value and character. Paid placements are always labelled “Premier choice”; “Team’s pick” is never paid for.