Last Photo From Sri Lanka

Spent 8 days in Colombo, Sri Lanka, and it's not your typical city break. The streets are a maze of color and chaos, with tuk-tuks zipping past aromatic street food stalls. All in all, Colombo's a wild mix of old meets new, and I'm here for it!

Overcast Day in Colombo

On an overcast day in Colombo, the gray sky loomed over the city streets and buildings. The weather drove people indoors, and for me, the only option was a comforting bubble bath to counter the day's gloom.

Sri Lankan Chicken Kottu Roti is a popular street food made from chopped flatbread, chicken, spices, and vegetables. The distinct sound of its preparation draws many to street vendors. It's a flavorful dish representative of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Hikkaduwa, Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa, with its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life, promises the allure of a tropical paradise for travelers. Ideally, this coastal town is a sun-soaked haven for those looking to relax by the shores and explore its famous coral reefs. However, my dreams of basking under the sun were thwarted by relentless rain. Just a day into my planned retreat, the downpour has convinced me to cut my stay short and make my way back to Colombo. Mother Nature can be unpredictable…

While traveling, one always hopes for the best but prepares for the unexpected. Ironically, I had braced myself for the possibility of food poisoning during my trip, acknowledging the culinary adventures I was diving into. Yet, when it struck, it still caught me off-guard. The allure of local delicacies came with a price, and while I had somewhat anticipated this setback, enduring it is an entirely different story. It's a reminder that even with the best precautions, travel can sometimes throw you a curveball.

More from Colombo

In the heart of Colombo, amidst its urban sprawl, stands a testament to the city's rich tapestry of faiths: a vibrant Hindu Temple. With its intricately carved deities and ornate gopurams, the temple resonates with age-old traditions, drawing both devotees and admirers alike. However, like many hidden treasures of the city, its grandeur is often whispered among locals. Once, a chatty tuk-tuk driver shared, as we cruised the city's lanes, that while modern attractions might catch the eye of tourists, it's places like this temple that truly capture the spirit and essence of Colombo. Though it might not be on every visitor's list, those who venture here find themselves ensnared in its mystical aura, taking with them memories of a city that seamlessly weaves the ancient with the modern.

The Lotus Tower, piercing the Colombo skyline, is a modern marvel that encapsulates Sri Lanka's ambitions and architectural prowess. Dominating the urban panorama, its blooming lotus-inspired design is a testament to the country's cultural heritage and progressive vision. However, a local tuk-tuk driver once quipped, as we drove by, that the allure of its towering heights comes with a rather hefty price tag of $20 – a fee deemed steep by many visitors. As a result, countless tourists, including myself, often find themselves admiring and capturing its grandeur from the ground, making it a celebrated landmark viewed more from the outside than from its panoramic pinnacle.

Sunset in Colombo

Navigating the world's many corners, I've come to deeply value the preciousness of time and the golden opportunities I have to traverse this vast globe. Travel, for me, isn't just about the destinations—it's about soaking up moments, understanding cultures, and being truly present. While the allure of a wild night out might have faded and the allure of a drink has taken a back seat—chalk it up to age, wisdom, or just a hearty "been there, done that" sentiment—I still find myself drawn to the pulsating energy of a city. There's an inexplicable magic in being amidst the bustling streets, vibrant markets, and local hotspots, becoming a part of its rhythm, even if just for a fleeting moment. The world is vast, time is fleeting, but the memories and experiences? They're eternal.

Sri Lanka National Museum & Rooftop Pool

Ready for a trip down the vibrant corridors of Sri Lanka's history? The Sri Lanka National Museum, nestled in the heart of Colombo, is the ultimate treasure trove! Established in 1877, it's the largest museum in the country and lets you embark on a captivating journey spanning centuries. Housed in a colonial-era building with sprawling lawns, the museum showcases everything from ancient art and sculptures to relics of the Kandyan kingdom. Walking through its halls, you're instantly teleported to epochs gone by, giving you a front-row seat to the tapestry of Sri Lankan heritage. Whether you're a history buff or just a curious soul, this museum is a must-visit, offering a rich mosaic of stories waiting to be discovered. 🏛🇱🇰

And yes, I got extremely sunburned after about an hour of lying in the sun and swimming. Regretting that choice today, but the “base burn” is out of the way — let the tan begin.

Colombo, Sri Lanka!

Colombo, Sri Lanka: General Information & Fun Facts

Capital City: Colombo is the commercial capital and the largest city in Sri Lanka. While it's not the administrative capital (that honor goes to Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte), Colombo is the hub for business, culture, and urban life in the island nation. If cities had personalities, Colombo would be that friend who’s been to every party but also has deep philosophical chats with you at 3 a.m.

Colonial Influence: Throughout its history, Colombo has seen influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonists, all of which have left their mark. This colonial heritage is evident in the city's architecture and layout. It's like Europe had a party, and Colombo kept all the souvenirs.

Galle Face Green: This is a 5-hectare ocean-side urban park, which stretches for half a kilometer along the coast. It's a popular destination for tourists and locals alike, who come here to enjoy the ocean views, fly kites, or just relax.

Multi-Cultural: Colombo is a melting pot of various cultures, religions, and ethnicities. Here, you'll find temples, mosques, churches, and kovils standing in close proximity to each other, showcasing the nation's rich cultural tapestry.

Port of Colombo: Recognized as one of the busiest ports in South Asia, the Port of Colombo serves as a significant hub for maritime trade routes.

Street Food: Colombo is known for its vibrant street food culture. Visitors can indulge in a variety of dishes, from the spicy "kottu roti" to the sweet "isso vadey" (prawn fritters).

Tuk-Tuks: These colorful three-wheeled vehicles are a common sight in Colombo. They are a convenient way to navigate through the city's bustling streets, though it's advisable to agree on a fare before starting a ride. They are literally everywhere.

Gangaramaya Temple:

Gangaramaya Temple is one of Colombo's most iconic and revered Buddhist temples. Located near the Beira Lake, the temple complex is a fusion of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. Established in the late 19th century by the famous scholar monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera, the temple has evolved over the years into a place of worship, meditation, and learning. Beyond its spiritual significance, Gangaramaya also houses a museum displaying a vast collection of artifacts, ranging from religious relics to vintage cars. The temple's annual Perahera festival, with its parade of lavishly decorated elephants and traditional dancers, draws thousands of devotees and tourists, making it a must-visit during the festival season.