Colombo
Best time to be there
During our winter months, when the humidity is lower and the temperature more comfortable for sightseeing and exploration. However, the monsoon season of May to September should not be discounted for travel as the whole of Sri Lanka is bursting into lush greenery due to the rainfall showing you a side of this island not everyone sees.
Fly to
Colombo (Sri Lankan Airlines daily)
flying time
10 hours non-stop
time difference
GMT +6 hours
Visas
Required for British Nationals from 1st January 2012.
Health Requirements
Yellow fever if arriving from endemic area
Itineraries
Classic Sri Lanka
The island of Sri Lanka is shaped like an enormous teardrop falling from the southern tip of India, separated by a series of stepping-stone coral islets. Read more ...
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Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka and with a population of 647,100, it is the largest city in this country. Located on the west coast of the island, it is adjacent to the administrative capital, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. Colombo is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life, colonial buildings and ruins. Being the former administrative capital of Sri Lanka, it is home to the majority of the country's corporate offices and offers a huge variety of restaurants and entertainment. Famous landmarks include the Galle Face Green, the Viharamahadevi Park, as well as the National Museum.
The name "Colombo", first introduced by the Portuguese in 1505, is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhalese name Kolon thota, meaning "port on the river Kelani". It has also been suggested that the name may be derived from the Sinhalese name Kola-amba-thota which means "Harbour with leafy mango trees".
Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However it was only made the capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815 and its status as capital was retained when the nation became independent in 1948.
Suggested Colombo Accommodation
The Wallawwa
Conveniently located just 15 minutes from Colombo airport, the Wallawwa at Ja Ela is the ideal property to start or finish your Sri Lankan journey.
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Guest Testimonial
We very much appreciated the champagne to celebrate A&K's anniversary. Our guide Omar & driver Basil were both absolutely excellent throughout. Many thanks for making our trip to Jordan so enjoyable and for all the hard work that ensured our holiday ran so smoothly! 
- LJ, London
World Travel Awards
World Travel Awards
World's Leading Luxury Tour Operator 2011
A&K Philanthropy
Kiwi Encounter
Offers the opportunity to sponsor the hatching and raising of kiwi chicks and tour the facility that is helping to increase the numbers of this beloved and endangered icon.
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