Architecture in Colombo

Sri Lanka’s capital is a delightful contradiction of cultures, religions, history and modernity, an amalgamation which is clearly reflected in the city’s juxtaposing architecture. Towering modern structures sit side-by-side with European relics from the colonial era; winding streets of traditional houses give way to roads lined with shopping arcades and lively bars and restaurants, and striking churches, mosques and Buddhist temples are littered throughout the streets. Colombo is a fantastic location to explore the architecture in Sri Lanka, from the island’s heritage architecture to the modern-day structures.

There are many ways to explore the architecture in Colombo: go on a guided walking tour around the Fort, which boasts several historic landmarks; wend your way through Slave Island and explore the city’s vibrant backstreets; visit some of Colombo’s most iconic religious buildings; stay at Galle Face Hotel, a majestic legacy of the British colonial period that was one of the first hotels in Asia; explore the Dutch Hospital, first constructed in 1681 and which now houses several upmarket restaurants; head further afield to the ancient Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara and admire Sri Lanka’s heritage architecture, or take a tour of the capital by tuk tuk and get the full impression of the chaotic jumble of styles.