Discover Colombo’s compelling contrasts
Busy and vibrant, Sri Lanka’s ocean city of Colombo is the commercial capital of the country and a popular stop on the tourist trail. Our Colombo holidays will show you the best of this bustling destination, with its compelling mix of modern life, landmark colonial architecture, monuments and ruins.
Due to its large natural harbour and strategic position along the east-west sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders as far back as 2,000 years ago. Nowadays, the city buzzes with a population of nearly 650,000. The name Colombo was first introduced by the Portuguese in 1505 and is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhalese name Kolon thota, meaning ‘port on the river Kelani’. Some locals say the city’s name is derived from the name Kola-amba-thota which means ‘harbour with leafy mango trees’ and this legacy is evident today in the verdant Viharamahadevi Park and the Galle Face Green, ribbons of green space running through the city.
Sri Lanka’s busy capital has a lot to offer including a huge variety of restaurants, entertainment and attractions. And we should know, we’ve done them all. Whether you want to take a trip to its majestic fort, visit the National Museum or tour the Gangaramaya Temple with its eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese architecture; on a Colombo holiday with us you’ll get to the heart of this wonderful city.