Colombo’s Kollupitiya neighborhood has come a long way from housing a colonial brewery to becoming one of the city’s most important commercial areas filled with some of the best restaurants, hotels and vendors. The multi-cultural district offers a unique opportunity to experience the city’s vibes in all their authenticity.
Nuga Gama
With Nuga Gama, the Cinnamon Grand Hotel has brought a piece of authentic Sri Lankan village life to the bustling capital. Set up around a 200-year-old Banyan tree, the traditional restaurant features an open kitchen where visitors can watch the preparation of the Sri Lankan dishes, an Ambalama (a resting place for travellers) and even a farm with livestock. The carbon-neutral venue is administered by friendly staff dressed in traditional clothes who are happy to teach visitors about their local culture. Their creamy curries and spicy flavors allow you to get a taste of the country’s sumptuous cuisine within the magical environment of a traditional village setting. Nuga Gama has created an idyllic getaway right in the middle of Kolluptiya and offers a truly memorable experience.
77, Galle Road, Colombo, Colombo, Sri Lanka, +94 773997052
Kollupitiya Market
The building in which one of the city’s busiest markets is housed may not be pleasing to the eye but it is filled with numerous vendors selling a wide range of goods including fresh meats, vegetables, clothes, electronic devices and other trinkets. Those willing to spend some time exploring the different stalls can find some real gems here. Next to handicrafts and convenience shops, this place also offers a surprising range of imported food products from Europe and America to the delight of many expats. The bustling market is always filled with locals looking to do their grocery shopping or inspect the goods on offer. Make sure to bargain before completing your purchase or check the prices for similar products at other stores.
Kollupitiya Market, Dharmapala Mw, Colombo 3, Sri Lanka
Gangaramaya Temple
Located close to Kollupitiya and run by one of the country’s most revered monks, Galboda Gnanissara Thera, the Gangaramaya Temple houses a library and a museum, and it exhibits a collection of eclectic artifacts given by devotees. Its architecture features Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese elements, with the Simamalaka Shrine as one of the most noteworthy constructions in the temple. The religious site is the center of the annual February poya, one of the most lavish Vesak celebrations in the city. Numerous Buddhist scholars have visited the temple in order to practice mindfulness and establish their inner balance. The temple is involved in a variety of welfare projects, bringing aid to old people’s homes, a vocational school and an orphanage. It has an outstanding reputation for its peaceful tolerance and openness to other religions. Gangaramaya Temple offers a wonderful insight into the cultural and religious heritage of the country.
61 Sri Jinarathana Rd, Colombo 2, Sri Lanka, +94 11 2 435169
National Museum
The Colombo Museum was established in 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon. It’s the largest museum in Sri Lanka, home to a significant collection of national artifacts – most importantly the throne and the crown of the former kings of Kandy. Covering a period of 2500 years, it offers a marvelous insight into the culture as well as the colonial history of the country. The museum is divided into three sections, namely a natural science, a culture section, and a library. There’s also an additional section including intriguing botanical and zoological exhibits. Cultural artefacts have been arranged according to their age, allowing visitors to follow the development throughout the ages. The library houses a stunning collection of historical books and chronicles. If you are interested in becoming more involved in their activities, the National Museum also offers frequent lectures and seminars open to everyone.
Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Sri Lanka, +94 11 2 695366
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