Colombo City Temples and Markets with Local Lunch
Active
1h - 4h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Delve into the vibrant culture and rich heritage of Colombo on this comprehensive city tour. Start by visiting the revered Gangaramaya Temple, gaining insight into Sri Lanka’s spiritual traditions. Enjoy the serene atmosphere at Seema Malaka, a floating temple on Beira Lake, before exploring the historical Independence Square. Capture stunning photos at the iconic Colombo Town Hall and immerse yourself in the past at the Colombo National Museum. Stroll through the lively Pettah Markets and appreciate the multicultural charm of the Red Mosque. Savor a delicious local lunch buffet featuring traditional rice and curry.
- Discover Colombo's key cultural and historical attractions
- Enjoy traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry at a local buffet
- Explore bustling markets and iconic landmarks like the Red Mosque
This experience is led by a local guide who lives in Colombo and has visited over 90 countries, offering personal insights, cultural depth, and stories you won’t find in guidebooks
Available options
Colombo City Temples and Markets with Local Lunch
What's included
Admission fee
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Visit Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s spiritual life and traditions
2
Enjoy peaceful lake views at Seema Malaka, a floating temple on Beira Lake designed for meditation and reflection
3
Stop 3
Explore Independence Square, learning about Sri Lanka’s journey to independence in 1948 and its national identity
4
Photo stop at the iconic Colombo Town Hall, showcasing colonial-era architecture
5
Stop 5
Guided visit to the Colombo National Museum (entrance included), home to over 2,500 years of Sri Lankan history, royal regalia, and ancient artefacts
6
Walk through Colombo Fort and the bustling Pettah Markets, experiencing the heart of local trade, colour, and daily life
7
Visit the striking Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque), a landmark of Colombo’s multicultural heritage
8
Enjoy a local lunch buffet featuring traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry, with a variety of flavours and spices
9
Stop 9
End the day at Galle Face Green over the Indian Ocean while locals fly kites
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Drinks will have to be bought by the travellers
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
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Important information
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
On the roadway to the entrance to Galle Face Hotel
2 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300
About Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.
Top Attractions
Galle Face Green
A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.
Beach
1-2 hours
Free
National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.
Museum
2-3 hours
LKR 1,000 (foreigners)
Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara
An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.
Religious
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Beira Lake
A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free (boat rides may have a small fee)
Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.
Shopping
1-3 hours
Varies by shop
Must-Try Local Dishes
Rice and Curry
A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.
Main Dish
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Hoppers (Appa)
Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.
Breakfast/Dinner
Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.
Kottu Roti
A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.
Dinner/Snack
Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Lamprais
A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.
Main Dish
Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.
Popular Activities
Hiking
Water sports
Wildlife safaris
Beach activities
Spa treatments
Yoga
Temple visits
Museum tours
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.
28-32°C
82-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night
Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides
- • Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo
By train
Colombo Fort Station
By bus
Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Colombo Fort
Cinnamon Gardens
Galle Face
Pettah
Day trips
Kandy
115 km • Full day
Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.
Galle
120 km • Full day
Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.
Negombo
35 km • Half day
Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.
Festivals
Vesak • May (full moon day)
Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day)
Christmas • December 25
Pro tips
- Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
- Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
- Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
- Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
- Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
