Getting ashore
Ships berth at the Colombo port, and taxis and tuk-tuks wait at the gate. Check your ship’s notice for the berth and any shuttle.
Watch-outs
Colombo traffic is heavy and slow. Tuk-tuk drivers quote high fares, so agree the price first or use a metered taxi. Dress modestly for temples.
Galle Face Green
Galle Face is the long seafront green, popular in the evening with food stalls and kites. It is a good place to watch the sunset.
Pettah and the markets
The Pettah market is a busy bazaar of spices, fabrics, fruit and electronics. It is best in the morning.
Temples and museums
The Gangaramaya Temple and the Colombo National Museum are close to the centre. Dress modestly and remove shoes at the temples.
Day trips
Kandy, the old royal capital with the Temple of the Tooth, is about three hours by road or train. Sigiriya and the rock fortress are a further trip.
Food & shopping
Sri Lankan food includes rice and curry, hoppers and kottu roti. Street food stalls are cheap and busy in the evening.
Money & connectivity
The currency is the rupee. Cards are accepted in larger places, and ATMs are in the city.
Accessibility & mobility
The port and the Galle Face are flat. The temples have steps and uneven floors. Tuk-tuks have high steps. Ask your operator for accessible vehicles.