The capital city of Sri Lanka, Colombo, is amongst the most famous towns and industrial centers in Sri Lanka that has a long history as an important port serving the ancient east-west trade routes. Born out of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences owing to the colonial rule here long ago, this city has now turned into a posh and modern hub with sky-high buildings, leisure facilities, high-end restaurants, hotels and resorts, entertainment options, and an amazing nightlife. However, even amidst the urban chaos and modernization, it has managed to retain its charm as an essential part of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage by means of the number of monuments in Colombo that still stand intact here! In fact, this very heritage is greatly reflected in the architecture of this city, where you’ll see ancient structures and shrines blending in the same location as the unconventional colonial buildings and high-rise shopping malls.
The city has a rather imposing set of monuments that make heads turn and draw tourists here no matter what brought them into the city in the first place. Some of the most notable and visit-worthy monuments standing in this city in strategic and beautiful locations include the Colombo Fort, Colombo City Hall, Independence Square, and Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya. We have provided some information about all of these right here so that you can plan your trip to these points in Sri Lanka accordingly.
4 Marvelous Monuments In Colombo
Do not miss out on the experience of exploring and marveling at these beautiful monuments located in the capital city of Colombo in Sri Lanka. Each of these are unique in their own ways and will offer you an in-depth knowledge into the interesting history of this island nation.
1. Colombo Fort
The Colombo Fort is basically the central business district of Colombo in Sri Lanka that boasts of some stunning British style structures and new neighbourhoods. As history goes, Colombo Fort once served as the city’s main fort and also a walled city with administrative and military buildings, cinnamon storehouses and gardens, mills, residential buildings and more. The street is bustling with noisy vendors selling traditional items and witnesses a lot of tourist interest owing to its history and vicinity to the beautiful ocean. Some unique time-worn cafés and restaurants here offer delicious local delicacies and will transfer you to the Dutch era.
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2. Explore Old City Hall
Built in 1865 on Main Street, this architectural marvel is a British era municipal building. This vintage building is a major attraction amongst the history lovers as they can sense the historical traces of 1800s culture of Colombo city. The neoclassical architectural style of the Old City Hall is a sight to behold.
The tourists can witness the age-worn trucks, vintage radio, age old typewriters and other municipal equipment by visiting the museum situated at the ground floor of this historical landmark. While cherishing the beauty of the artefacts treasured in this building, don’t forget to admire the architectural structures adorned with some fine wax figures.
Visiting the architectural building in May can be a great experience for history buffs as they’ll be able to explore and cherish the long history in extreme peace and solace.
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3. Independence Square, Colombo
This is a landmark sight in a city known for its natural beauty, cleanliness and historical significance. The lush green surroundings offer quality relaxation to the tourists. You will see hundreds of locals jogging, cycling and exercising in the morning hours. It is an apt place to spend a few hours in the evening refreshing, enjoying some street food and shopping at the small shops in the area. The place is well maintained and thus makes an ideal picnic spot within the city.
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4. Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya
This holy shrine located in Boralesgamuwa is a stunning marvel amidst this exotic land full of temples. Famous for its bewitching environs, the magnificent temple of Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya is among the most highly regarded monuments in Colombo other than being one of the most sacred places to visit in Sri Lanka that teaches you a lot about its rich history, heritage, and culture. It is the home of the notable and immensely sacred Bodhi-tree which is believed to have been there since 3rd century B.C.E. and acts as an important part of the 32 saplings that grew out of the holy Bodhi-tree located in Anuradhapura. This massive and beautiful temple is frequented by thousands of travelers from around the world owing to its unending charm and splendid architecture.
Location: Dehiwala Road, Boralesgamuwa, Colombo
Timings: Open on all days of the week
Entry fee: Nil
So, which of these fabulous monuments in Colombo will you put down in your itinerary for your Sri Lanka vacation? We would suggest you visit all of them to get to know intriguing facts about the history and culture of Sri Lanka and what shaped it into the paradise that it is today. Take a trip to Sri Lanka and explore the hidden natural as well as architectural marvels of this island nation with your loved ones at once!
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