Experience a blend of cultural sightseeing and shopping bonanza in Colombo. Explore iconic landmarks like Gangarama Temple and Independence Square, while getting guidance on the best shops and deals for souvenirs.
Experience a blend of cultural sightseeing and shopping bonanza in Colombo. Explore iconic landmarks like Gangarama Temple and Independence Square, while getting guidance on the best shops and deals for souvenirs.
- Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple - Gangaramaya is among the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo, established by the renowned scholar monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera in the late 19th century. Following the Venerable Sri Sumangala, his chief disciple Devundara Sri Jinaratana Nayake Thera took over the temple’s administration. He laid…
- Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple - Gangaramaya is among the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo, established by the renowned scholar monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera in the late 19th century. Following the Venerable Sri Sumangala, his chief disciple Devundara Sri Jinaratana Nayake Thera took over the temple’s administration. He laid the groundwork to transform the small temple into an internationally recognized institution. The next chief incumbent was Ven. Devundara Vacissara Thera, the mentor of Ven. Galboda Gnanissara, who contributed to making Gangaramaya what it is today: more than just a temple, but a place of worship, a center for learning, and a cultural hub.
- Arcade Independence Square - Independence Memorial Hall, also known as Independence Commemoration Hall, is a national monument in Sri Lanka built to commemorate the country’s independence from British rule, with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese elected legislature on February 4, 1948. It is situated in Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum. The monument was constructed at the site where the formal ceremony marking the start of self-rule, with the opening of the first parliament by HRH Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester, took place on February 4, 1948. At the head of the monument stands the statue of the first prime minister of the country, Rt. Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake, “The Father of the Nation.” Most of the annual National Independence Day celebrations have been held here.
- Colombo National Museum - Initially known as the Colombo Museum, it was established on January 1, 1877. Its founder was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time. The Royal Asiatic Society (CB) played a crucial role in bringing to Gregory’s attention the need for a public museum upon his appointment as Governor in 1872. With considerable effort, the approval of the legislative council was obtained within a year. The number of branch museums has now expanded to nine, and additionally, a school science program and a mobile museum service are also operational.
- Traditional Gem Mine - Did you know Sri Lanka is renowned for its rich gems? Here is the chance to shop for captivating gems and jewelry at affordable prices, approved by the Gem Bureau of Sri Lanka (No hidden business, 100% satisfaction guaranteed).
- Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque - The construction of the Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque began in 1908 and was completed in 1909. The mosque was commissioned by the local Indian Muslim community in Pettah to fulfill their requirement for five-times-daily prayers and Jummah on Fridays. The mosque’s designer and builder was Habibu Labbe Saibu Labbe, an unqualified architect, who based his design on details and images of Indo-Saracenic structures provided by South Indian traders who commissioned him. It is a hybrid architectural style, combining elements from native Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture with Gothic revival and Neo-classical styles. Originally, it had the capacity for 1,500 worshippers, although at the time only about 500 attended prayers. It is a distinctive red and white candy-striped two-story building with a clock tower, reminiscent of the Jamek Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (constructed in 1910).
- Laksala - Laksala (Sri Lanka Handicrafts Board) is the only state-owned gift and souvenir boutique offering the widest range of Sri Lankan handicrafts, tea, gems, and other products at reasonable prices, conveniently located at island-wide stopovers. Pioneers since 1964, the handicrafts emporium is linked to more than 10,000 leading master craftsmen and entrepreneurs who operate in their own rural and cottage industries across the island. Experience the captivating blend of meticulously handcrafted creations, specially sorted and packed tea and spices, and a special collection of traditionally mined and cut gems, along with a vast array of patiently handmade jewelry.
- Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil - Easily accessible, just behind the Fort Railway Station, you will find the Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil, or simply the “Hindu Temple.” This is the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Colombo, dedicated to the Gods Shiva and Ganesh. A visit is a must and is included in most Colombo tours. Its monumental towers, elaborately decorated with hundreds of colorful ornaments, will delight your eyes and create lasting memories. Enjoy!

- Minimum 2 people per booking
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport by private vehicle
- Driver/Guide
- Minimum 2 people per booking
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Transport by private vehicle
- Driver/Guide
- Food and drinks
- Entry/Admission fee
- Food and drinks
- Entry/Admission fee
Experience the perfect blend of sightseeing and shopping in Colombo with this tour, accompanied by a private guide. By booking a private tour, you will receive personalized attention, and your guide will customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Highlights of the tour include Gangarama Temple, Galle Face Green, Independence Square, and more. While…
Experience the perfect blend of sightseeing and shopping in Colombo with this tour, accompanied by a private guide. By booking a private tour, you will receive personalized attention, and your guide will customize the itinerary to suit your interests. Highlights of the tour include Gangarama Temple, Galle Face Green, Independence Square, and more. While shopping for souvenirs, benefit from expert guidance on the best shops and deals.
- A minimum of 3 people per booking is required
- A dress code is perfect
- This is a private tour
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.