Meilleure Période pour Visiter
December to March
Devise
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Langue
Sinhala, Tamil, English
Fuseau Horaire
IST (UTC+5:30)
Discover Colombo
Colombo isn't just a gateway to Sri Lanka—it's a living museum of the Indian Ocean's spice trade history, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture jostles for space with gleaming new skyscrapers funded by China's Belt and Road Initiative. You can spend a morning bargaining for saris in the chaotic lanes of Pettah Market, then sip single-origin Ceylon tea in a restored 19th-century warehouse at the Colombo Tea Auction, watching the world's largest tea trading floor in action.
What truly defines Colombo is its layered spirituality—you'll find Buddhist monks collecting alms at dawn along Gangaramaya Temple's serene Beira Lake, Hindu devotees offering coconuts at the colorful Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil, and the call to prayer echoing from the historic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque's candy-striped minaret, all within walking distance. The city's soul is best experienced at sunset on Galle Face Green, where families fly kites, couples stroll the seawall, and street vendors sell isso wade (spicy lentil fritters with shrimp) as the Indian Ocean crashes against the shore.
Why Visit Colombo?
Architectural Time Capsule: Witness Colombo's colonial past through landmarks like the Old Parliament Building, the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct (now upscale dining), and the grand Cinnamon Gardens mansions, contrasted with modern marvels like the Lotus Tower and Port City Colombo's emerging skyline.
Unparalleled Street Food Culture: From hoppers (bowl-shaped coconut milk pancakes) with lunu miris sambol for breakfast at a roadside kade to fiery kottu roti chopped on a griddle at night, Colombo's affordable street food offers an authentic taste of Sri Lanka's multicultural culinary heritage.
Living Religious Harmony: Experience remarkable interfaith coexistence by visiting sacred sites like the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple (with its eclectic museum), the stunningly ornate Old Kathiresan Hindu Kovil, and the Wolvendaal Dutch Reformed Church, all within close proximity.
Thriving Arts and Design Scene: Discover contemporary Sri Lankan creativity at the Saskia Fernando Gallery in Colombo 7, browse for handmade batik and ceramics at Paradise Road, and catch traditional Kandyan dance performances at the Nelum Pokuna Mahinda Rajapaksa Theatre.
Gateway to Ceylon Tea Culture: Dive deep into the world's finest tea at the Ceylon Tea Museum, participate in a professional tasting at Mlesna Tea Centre, and shop for exclusive single-estate varieties at flagship stores like Dilmah and Basilur.
Vibrant Market Experiences: Get lost in the sensory overload of Pettah Market's labyrinthine lanes selling everything from spices to electronics, then contrast it with the orderly, air-conditioned luxury of the Colombo City Centre or One Galle Face Mall.
Colombo est Connue Pour
Prêt à explorer Colombo?
Colombo Neighborhoods
Colombo Fort & Pettah
The historic and commercial heart of the city, where colonial-era government buildings and modern banks coexist with the frenetic, crowded energy of Pettah's bazaars. This is where Colombo's trading soul is most palpable.
Highlights:
Best for:
Cinnamon Gardens (Colombo 7)
An upscale, leafy residential area named for the former cinnamon plantations, now home to embassies, museums, and grand mansions. It's Colombo's most elegant and tranquil neighborhood.
Highlights:
Best for:
Galle Face Green & Marine Drive
The city's oceanfront promenade and entertainment strip. Galle Face Green is a vast urban lawn for recreation, while Marine Drive (Galle Road) is a bustling coastal thoroughfare lined with hotels and restaurants.
Highlights:
Best for:
Bambalapitiya & Wellawatte
Vibrant, densely populated residential and commercial districts with a strong local vibe. Known for excellent mid-range eateries, bakeries, fabric shops, and a stretch of beach popular with locals.
Highlights:
Best for:
Principales Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Download the 'PickMe' or 'Uber' app for hassle-free, metered rides. Auto-rickshaws (tuk-tuks) hailed on the street often don't use meters, so negotiate firmly or use the app to get a fair price.
- •For the best hoppers (appa), head to a local 'hoppers kade' in the late afternoon or early evening. Street-side spots in Bambalapitiya or Wellawatte often have the freshest, crispiest ones.
- •Carry small denomination Sri Lankan Rupee notes (LKR 20, 50, 100, 500). Many small shops, tuk-tuks, and street vendors struggle to provide change for LKR 5000 notes.
- •Visit the Gangaramaya Temple during the morning puja (offering) for a serene experience, and be sure to explore its bizarre and fascinating museum filled with donor gifts from around the world.
- •When shopping in Pettah Market, start your bargaining at about 50% of the initial asking price and be prepared to walk away. A smile and polite demeanor go much further than aggression.
- •Avoid drinking tap water. Always buy sealed bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. Even in good hotels, use bottled water for brushing teeth.
- •Take a late afternoon stroll along the Galle Face Green seawall to join locals flying kites, then grab a spicy isso wade (shrimp fritter) or a fresh king coconut (thambili) from a street vendor.
- •Dress modestly when visiting temples and mosques. Shoulders and knees should be covered. You'll often need to remove shoes and hats before entering temple grounds.
- •For a unique cultural experience, visit the Colombo Dutch Museum on a weekday—it's rarely crowded and offers a quiet look at the Dutch colonial period in a beautifully restored building.
- •If you need reliable, high-speed Wi-Fi, head to cafes in areas like Colombo 7 (Cinnamon Gardens) or the food courts of major malls like One Galle Face or Colombo City Centre.
Colombo Food Scene
Colombo's food is a direct reflection of its history as a spice port, blending Sinhalese, Tamil, Malay, Dutch, and Portuguese influences. The result is a cuisine bursting with complex flavors, from fiery curries to sweet hoppers, best experienced through both street stalls and 'rice and curry' buffets.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Local Kades
- • Kottu at Hotel de Pilawoos (Bambalapitiya)
- • Hoppers at Palmyrah Restaurant (multiple locations)
- • Isso Wade (shrimp fritters) at Galle Face Green stalls
Look for stalls with a high turnover and locals lining up. Don't be afraid to point at what others are eating if you're unsure.
Traditional Rice & Curry
- • Nuga Gama (Cinnamon Gardens) for a village-style buffet
- • Upali's (Colombo 6) for an extensive selection
- • Green Cabin (Bambalapitiya) for a classic local experience
Lunchtime (12-2 PM) is peak time for the freshest and widest variety of curries at these buffet-style restaurants.
Seafood
- • Fresh crab at The Lagoon (Cinnamon Grand Hotel)
- • Grilled prawns at Ministry of Crab (Dutch Hospital)
- • Local fish curry at a seaside eatery on Marine Drive
For the best value, head to the smaller, local restaurants along Galle Road in Dehiwala or Mount Lavinia, just south of the center.
Cafes & Bakeries
- • Tea and pastries at the Gallery Cafe (Paradise Road)
- • Sri Lankan short eats at Perera & Sons (ubiquitous chain)
- • Woodapple juice and cake at Barefoot Garden Cafe
Sri Lankan 'short eats'—savory pastries like fish patties, rolls, and cutlets—are perfect for a cheap, filling snack on the go.
Populaire Auprès
Best Time to Visit Colombo
Spring
March to April is hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 31°C. This period includes the Sinhalese and Tamil New Year (mid-April), bringing festive celebrations but also significant domestic travel.
Pros:
- + Experience vibrant Avurudu (New Year) festivities and games
- + Generally less international tourist crowds
- + Long, sunny days
Cons:
- - Intense heat and humidity
- - Potential for brief but heavy thunderstorms
- - Some shops/businesses close for the New Year holidays
Summer
May through August sees the onset of the southwest monsoon (Yala season). Expect high humidity, temperatures around 30-31°C, and frequent, heavy rainfall, particularly in the afternoons and evenings.
Pros:
- + Lush, green landscapes in the city
- + Lower hotel rates and fewer tourists
- + Cooler temperatures during rain showers
Cons:
- - Daily rainfall can disrupt outdoor plans
- - High humidity
- - Rough seas along the city's western coast
Autumn
September to November is an inter-monsoonal period with unpredictable weather. It can be very wet, with a risk of thunderstorms and occasional cyclonic activity in the Bay of Bengal.
Pros:
- + The lowest tourist season, offering great deals
- + Cultural events like Vesak (May) sometimes fall in this period
- + Vibrant post-rain skies
Cons:
- - Most unpredictable weather, with risk of flooding
- - Highest rainfall averages of the year
- - Some outdoor attractions may be less enjoyable
Winter
December to February is the peak tourist season. The northeast monsoon brings drier, sunny weather to the west coast. Temperatures are pleasant, averaging 28-30°C with lower humidity and cool evenings.
Pros:
- + Ideal weather for sightseeing and beach time
- + Clear skies and minimal rainfall
- + All festivals and attractions are fully operational
Cons:
- - Highest prices for flights and accommodation
- - Crowds at major tourist sites
- - Need to book everything well in advance
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Day Trips from Colombo
Galle
2 hours by train or car
A beautifully preserved UNESCO-listed Dutch fort city on the southwest coast. Wander the ramparts, explore boutique shops and cafes within the fort's walls, and visit the iconic lighthouse.
Negombo
1 hour by car or bus
A historic fishing town north of Colombo with a strong Catholic heritage and a relaxed beach vibe. Famous for its lagoon, seafood, and the intricate lace-making industry.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
2.5 hours by car
One of the world's largest captive elephant herds, this conservation center allows visitors to observe elephants being bottle-fed and bathing in the Ma Oya river.
Colombo Budget Guide
Colombo can be very affordable for budget travelers, with significant costs coming from upscale dining and international hotels. Street food and local transport are exceptionally cheap.
Budget
$25-40 for budget travelers (hostels, street food, public transport)
per day
Mid-Range
$70-120 for mid-range (3-star hotels, mix of local and nicer restaurants, occasional taxis)
per day
Luxury
$200+ for luxury (5-star hotels, fine dining, private drivers, guided tours)
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Eat at local 'rice and curry' buffets or street kades for meals under $3.
- •Use the PickMe app for metered tuk-tuk fares instead of negotiating on the street.
- •Stay in guesthouses in areas like Bambalapitiya or Dehiwala for better value than central hotels.
- •Buy a local SIM card (Dialog or Mobitel) for cheap data to use ride-hailing and maps.
- •Many museums and parks have very low entrance fees for foreigners (often under $5).
Colombo Hidden Gems
Seema Malaka (Temple on Beira Lake)
A serene Buddhist temple designed by Geoffrey Bawa, seemingly floating on the waters of Beira Lake, connected by pontoon walkways.
Far quieter than the nearby Gangaramaya Temple, it offers a moment of profound peace right in the city center, with beautiful reflections and architecture.
Colombo City Library
A beautiful old colonial-era public library in a grand building near Viharamahadevi Park, with a tranquil reading room.
A step back in time, it's a functioning piece of civic history rarely visited by tourists, offering a glimpse into local intellectual life.
Wolvendaal Church
One of the oldest Protestant churches still in use in Sri Lanka, built by the Dutch in 1749.
Its austere, atmospheric interior, complete with ancient tombstones on the floor, provides a powerful and uncrowded connection to the Dutch colonial era.
Good Market Colombo
A weekly (Saturday) pop-up market focused on organic produce, ethical crafts, and sustainable living, held at different locations.
It connects you with Colombo's conscious, eco-friendly community and offers unique handicrafts and snacks you won't find in tourist shops.
Kayman's Gate & the Old Town
A historic gate and the remnants of the original Portuguese fortifications, tucked away in the bustling Pettah district.
This overlooked spot is a tangible piece of Colombo's 16th-century origins, hidden in plain sight amidst the market chaos.
Colombo Culture & Customs
Colombo's culture is a polite, reserved, and family-oriented blend of Sinhalese Buddhist, Tamil Hindu, Muslim, and Christian influences. Respect for elders, religious devotion, and a love for cricket are universal. While modern and cosmopolitan on the surface, traditional values run deep.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always use your right hand for giving, receiving, and eating. The left hand is considered unclean.
- •Remove shoes and hats before entering any temple, mosque, or someone's home. Dress modestly at religious sites.
- •Avoid touching anyone on the head, even children, as the head is considered sacred.
- •Public displays of affection between couples are frowned upon, especially outside tourist areas.
- •When visiting a local's home, it's customary to bring a small gift, like fruit or sweets.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Colombo
Is Colombo safe for tourists?
Colombo is generally safe for tourists. Petty theft like pickpocketing can occur in crowded areas like Pettah Market, so keep valuables secure. Use common sense at night, stick to well-lit areas, and use registered taxis or ride-hailing apps for transportation after dark.
Do I need a visa to visit Sri Lanka?
Most nationalities require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourism. This is easily obtained online before travel. Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity from your date of entry. Always check the official Sri Lankan ETA website for the latest requirements.
What is the local currency and can I use credit cards?
The currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, larger restaurants, and malls. However, for street food, local markets, tuk-tuks, and smaller shops, you will need cash. ATMs are plentiful in the city.
What's the best way to get around Colombo?
For short distances in the city center, walking is possible. For longer trips, use the PickMe or Uber app for metered tuk-tuks and taxis. Buses are very cheap but can be crowded and confusing for first-timers. Private car hire with a driver is a comfortable option for day trips.
Is English widely spoken in Colombo?
Yes, English is widely spoken in Colombo, especially in tourist areas, hotels, restaurants, and by shopkeepers. It's much less common in remote rural areas, but within the city, you will have no problem communicating.
What should I wear in Colombo?
Light, breathable cotton or linen clothing is essential due to the heat and humidity. Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites (cover shoulders and knees). Pack a light rain jacket or umbrella, particularly if visiting during the monsoon seasons.
Can I drink the tap water in Colombo?
No, it is not recommended to drink tap water in Colombo. Always drink sealed bottled water, which is inexpensive and widely available. Use bottled water for brushing your teeth as well. In restaurants, bottled or filtered water is typically served.
What is the tipping etiquette in Colombo?
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for good service. In restaurants, a 10% service charge is often added to the bill. If not, leaving 5-10% in cash is customary. For hotel porters, LKR 100-200 per bag is standard. Small change is fine for taxi and tuk-tuk drivers.
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