Located in the western coast of Sri Lanka, Colombo is dotted with a number of tourist attractions. Historically, it was the important trading place during the time of Portuguese, the Dutch and the British rule. Now, Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, while the official capital of the island is Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte. The estimated population of Colombo is more than 647,100, which makes it the largest city of the island. Here is description about the major tourist destinations of Colombo.
Tourist attractions in Colombo
Dehiwala Zoo
Dehiwala Zoo is a zoological garden inaugurated in 1936. Apart from providing adventure to its visitors, Dehiwala Zoo is also a center of conservation, research and education.
Hindu Temples
Hindu Temples are known as Kovils in Colombo. Prominent among them are The Ganeshan, The Old Kathiresan and The New Kathiresan, The Shiva Subramania Swami temple on Slave Island and The Sri Muthumariamman temple.
Mount Lavinia
Mount Lavinia is just twelve km away from Colombo. It has been a famous tourist beach since a long time. One of other beautiful attractions of this beach is The Governor's House, built in 1805.
National Museum
An old magnificent building has been converted into the National Museum of Sri Lanka. The National Museum is preserving some invaluable manuscripts, rock sculptures from the ancient cities, bronze brassware and royal weapons of Sri Lankan kings and much more things. It has an amazing collection of about half a million books as well.
The Fort
An old Fort of the period of Portuguese and Dutch has been converted into the center of many offices of commercial activities. This Fort encompasses hotels, shops, airline offices, banks, main post office, immigration office, travel agents and restaurants.
Wolvendaal Church
Wolvendaal Church is one of the many churches found in Sri Lanka. It is Colombo's oldest Dutch church and is most-visited during Christian festivals.
