Colombo city tour

COLOMBO JUST IN 8 HOURS
Home Experiences Hidden history city walking tour and rest of the places by a van

Colombo is Sri Lanka’s multifaceted commercial capital; a city with an intriguing mix of history, colonial buildings, ruins, modern developments and a vibrant yet chaotic nature that often confuses first-time visitors. The Fort area of the city is often overlooked by modern-day travelers, but having once been the initial landing place for colonial powers it has a long and colourful history. For many years the secrets of bygone eras stood locked in time within the Fort area as it was partially cordoned off during the rule of the last government. At the start of 2015 these forgotten parts of the Fort area were opened up and some of Colombo’s oldest buildings were once again revealed. This walk lets you explore Colombo’s most historical area, the Fort, before introducing you to one of its most notoriously misunderstood districts, Pettah, with a host who knows the city like the back of his hand.



Pickup from the airport, hotel or pre-established meeting point.

Gangarama Temple - One of the most important temples of Colombo, an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture.

National Museum - Established on 1st January 1877, by Sir William Henry Gregory, it boasts of being the largest museum in the country.

Old Parliament Building - Housing the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka, this Neo-Baroque-style building has held Colombo's legislature for 53 years.

Independence Memorial Arcade & Independence Square - A national monument, it houses the Independence Memorial Museum.

Shopping at Odel Shopping Complex - Shopping at Laksala state-owned Handicrafts Emporium - an authentic place to pick up some popular Sri Lankan handicrafts and products.

Beire Lake - located in the centre of the city, the lake has many intricate canals which have aided in transporting good waterway.

Time for an authentic traditional Sri Lankan lunch.

After lunch walk through main fruit and vegetable market of Colombo, experience local life.

This walk begins in Colombo’s Fort area at the old Dutch Hospital, which is the first of many beautifully restored colonial buildings that you will see on the walk. Your host is a local history buff and he will begin by giving you a quick introduction to the area before you begin the walk. The walk places focus on photography, architecture and history in two stages; stage one covers the Fort while stage two covers the Pettah markets. You’ll start by taking a big loop through the entire Fort area, stopping to visit the currency museum, passing several notable landmarks such as the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the Old Post Office, and the historical Cargills Building. Your host has a story about each building and his energy and passion for the city are infectious – you’ll be drawn into the experience. Once you’ve finished in the Fort, you’ll stop for tea with a spectacular view overlooking the harbour and then you’ll head towards the bustling Pettah markets to try street snacks, chat with the local ‘bombay sweet’ sellers, and perhaps even try drinking a ‘falludah’. Water will be provided if required along the way. The walk ends back where you started at the Old Dutch Hospital.


Lighthouse and clock tower - built on 25 February 1857, the tower was designed by Emily Elizabeth Ward, wife of Governor Sir Henry George Ward. At 29-metre-high (95 ft) it was the tallest building at that time.

Colombo Harbor - largest and the busiest port of Sri Lanka, it serves as an important terminal in Asia.

Visit Grand Orient Hotel, which has a stunning view of a Colombo harbour.

Visit busy bazaar of Colombo.



We provide a guide, water, snacks and vehicle.
Suitable for children
Not for small children, but a walk tailored to suit the interests of children can be organized
What to wear or bring along:Cool, light clothing and a cap
Important to know:The walk is never scheduled on a poya day. Sunday is not the best day, as the markets are closed.
Making the most of it:
Remember to bring your camera!