Colombo is a captivating blend of old-world charm and cosmopolitan energy that feels like a treasure waiting to be discovered. It’s rich history, colorful neighborhoods, flavourful food scene and warm, welcoming locals make it both a gateway to and an immersive experience of Sri Lankan life.
Whether it’s the adventure of discovering iconic landmarks, exploring relics of the past or the thrill of a world-class casino, Shangri-La’s curated experiences of attractions get you out of your comfort zone and into the realm of unforgettable travel memories.
Dutch Hospital Precinct
The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct is one of the attractive shopping centres in the country. The building was originally a hospital during the Dutch occupation of Sri Lanka, and is considered to be the oldest building in the historic Colombo Fort area. It was also used as a police station and an apothecary, before being finally converted for its current use in 2011.
Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is one of the important temples in Colombo, and serves as both a place of Buddhist worship and a centre of learning. The temple’s architecture is a mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese, and it welcomes visitors of all faiths.
The Red Mosque
In the heart of the busy streets of Pettah, the red and white structure of the Jami-ul-Alfar Mosque stands as one of the most popular tourist attractions of the city, as well as being one of the oldest mosques in Colombo. Its clock tower and candy-cane-striped minarets, towering over its surroundings, were once used as a landmark by sailors approaching Colombo’s ports.
National Museum
Colombo Museum, as it was originally called, was established on 1 January 1877. Its founder was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time.
Independence Memorial Hall
Independence Memorial Hall is a national monument that was built to mark the independence of Sri Lanka from British rule, with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese-elected legislature on 4 February 1948.
Royal Colombo Golf Club
The Royal Colombo Golf Club is the oldest golf club in Sri Lanka. Established in 1880, it is home to the Sri Lanka Golf Union, the governing body of Golf in Sri Lanka. It maintains ties with the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews in Scotland.
Bally’s Casino
Bally’s is a well-established casino with a reputation for respectability and hospitality. The gaming area is spread over an extensive area, with private areas for high rollers.
From a simple walk in the park to exploring dramatic natural scenery, we’ve got nature-lovers covered. Find solace in a shady spot surrounded by greenery, ride a horse at golden hour, or simply soak it all up on the sandy beach. Nature never felt so good.
Viharamahadevi Park
Colombo’s largest park was originally called Victoria Park, but renamed in the 1950s for the mother of King Dutugemunu. It is notable for its superb flowering trees, which bloom in March, April and early May.
Galle Face Green
Great for a seafront-stroll and for people watching, especially on weekend evenings, this large open park and promenade, created by the British in 1859, covers 13 acres between Galle Road and the Indian Ocean.
If your holiday isn’t complete without a little retail therapy, Shangri-La has you covered. We’ve scoured Colombo to find the best shopping experiences, from high-end boutiques to the high street, hidden gems at one-of-one shoppes, private ateliers and colonial markets.
One Galle Face Mall
Colombo’s first prestigious and largest shopping development. A premier retail, entertainment and dining paradise to unite local and global shoppers.
From the outset, the design was planned to offer a fusion of clear sight lines, ease of access and an environment rendered in high quality materials. Providing the globe’s best known and best loved names with optimal display and foot traffic opportunities ensuring that visitors are engaged and satisfied with an experience unlike anything else in Colombo.
At the rooftop, find a plethora of alfresco dining options with cuisines to suit every taste, all with spectacular views of the ocean makes this a must visit attraction with friends, colleagues or the family. For everyday dining, the high-quality themed food hall offers familiar international brands alongside the best of local flavours with something for every palate and pocket, ensuring an endless stream of activity passing through the mall.