Colombo, Sri Lanka

• Stay closer to Galle Green Face if you are staying in Colombo. Other option is a beach resort in Negombo which is an hour away.
• The Fort area which has the old market and railway station, is one of the busiest places in Colombo and also host the famous restaurants. Do visit.
• There are a number of sea facing rooftop restaurants and bar that are a great pastime to spend and evening with friends. Also visit the Laksala shops that are government run souvenir shops.

We returned to Colombo from Sigiriya on a warm afternoon. The drive was pleasant and our hotel was in the middle of the busiest district of Colombo. Hence it was in no time that we were on the road moving towards the famous Gangaramaya Temple. It was one of the three places we had finalized to visit on our short stay in Sri Lankan capital.

Gangaramaya Temple 2

Gangaramaya Temple is sort of a collection of buddhist temples. There are two separate structures, one pretty massive and maze-like, other one spread at the side of Beira lake. There is a nominal entry fee for foreigners. Inside you will find a maze with artwork inspired from India, China and Thailand. There are elaborate artwork and statues in the front temple itself which sets tone for the rest of the tour.

Gangaramaya Temple 1

The second structure beside Beira lake is under more pliant environment and pleasantly located. There is even a section where transparent floor allows you to peek at the lake. Beautiful golden buddhas adorn the exterior and life-size buddha statue at the centre inside asks you to revere. The place is walking distance from the main building.

Pettah Market, Colombo

Our next stop was Pettah Market, a dense market near the main railway station of Colombo. It was crawling with all kind of people and we enjoyed the India-like scene before settling at a pure vegetarian restaurant near the Red Masjid. This place was amazing. We were missing the authentic south India food which we got here. Filled and satiated we moved to the crown jewel of Colombo - the Galle Green Face.

Galle Sea Face, Colombo

Galle Green Face is a stretch of beach with perfect view of sunset, a teeming joyful crowd and stalls of all kinds. The length allows different kind of activities. We mostly walked as the sun set. Our hotel was stone throw from here and we walked back to take some rest. Later in the night we went to a sports bar located at 14th floor. The view from here is stunning with long street views on both sides, a shimmering sea at front. A train passed by below and then we realised there is a railway track along the shore in Colombo.

ON14, Colombo

Next day we started late for the airport. We were leaving Sri Lanka after a pretty tour of comprehensive peripheral and central provinces. Thanks to rich buddhist culture and prosperity, my image of this island nation has completed changed. You still need a car for transport but thanks to excellent roads and friendly people, you will hardly struggle to find your way.