The tuk-tuk is a symbol of urban South and Southeast Asia. It is compact, convenient and cheap. Hopping in and out of these open-sided vehicles is a piece of cake. Darting through bustling streets, no other mode of transport can do what the tuk-tuk does. Ubiquitous in Sri Lanka, you do not want to miss this cultural experience. Sightseeing in Colombo in a tuk-tuk is an authentic way to discover this dynamic city. So, shall we go on a tuk-tuk safari?
Where does it take you?
Pettah
Pettah is the Bazaar town of Colombo. It even has a floating market. Its labyrinths of streets are buzzing with trade. Open-air bazaars, markets and quirky shops sell clothes, jewellery, spices, electronic goods and fresh produce. Put your haggling skills to the test and get a bargain. Pettah is a melting pot of Sri Lanka’s multi-ethnicity. You will find a lot of Indian imports, from sarees to religious iconography.
The Floating Market on Beira Lake is not just for satisfying your shopping cravings but also for satisfying food cravings. From hot samosas to fiery kottus, sample the best Sri Lankan food here.
The Wolvendaal Church is one of the oldest protestant churches and best-preserved buildings from the Dutch colonial era in Sri Lanka. Built in 1749, the shape of the church resembles a Greek cross. The interior still has the original Dutch furniture and pipe organ. Its graveyard is the resting place of many Dutch colonials.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque is an iconic landmark, even sailors spotted from their ships as they reached Colombo. Built in 1909 by the Muslim community, its ornate red and white brick layout stands out. You can visit the mosque during visiting hours.
Galle Face Green
This seaside promenade was once the grounds for Dutch canons to get a clear line of fire. During the British occupation, it became a picturesque seaside promenade. There was horse racing, cricket, rugby and golf here.
Evenings here come alive with crowds flocking together, kite-flying and sounds and aromas of street food. Street food vendors offer an eclectic selection that includes crabs, prawns, vade, cotton candy and fruit. You can end your tuk-tuk safari on a high note by going to high tea at the Galle Face Hotel in the vicinity, a landmark colonial building.
Gangaramaya Temple
Situated near Beira Lake, it is one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo, known for its blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian and Chinese architecture. Its Seema Malaka, designed by the island’s most illustrious architect, Geoffrey Bawa, is a centrepiece attraction.
Independence Memorial Hall
Built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948, it is the centre of national day celebrations. Borrowing its architectural style from a traditional Kandyan Audience Hall, it contains motifs and symbols carved into its walls and pillars. The Hall stands at the site where Sri Lanka’s first parliament opened. There is a museum housed in its basement. The nearby Arcade Independence Square is an upmarket shopping complex built using repurposed buildings. It is an excellent place to shop and dine.
Colombo National Museum
Visit Sri Lanka’s National Museum, a grand neo-Baroque colonial building housing some of the most important artefacts of the island. These include the regalia of Kandyan monarchs, ancient Buddhist sculpture and 19th Century English paintings of Sri Lanka. Its Banyan tree-shaded grounds are pleasant to walk in. A Laksala outlet on the grounds offers a variety of authentic traditional handcrafts and products.
Old Dutch Hospital
It is one of the oldest buildings in Colombo and the oldest in the Colombo Fort area. It is a fine example of 17th-century Dutch colonial architecture. The two courtyards and long open verandahs keep it naturally ventilated and cooled. The hospital used to treat officers and staff serving under the Dutch East India Company. Today, this beautifully restored heritage building is a shopping and dining precinct. Among its famous occupants are the Ministry of Crab and the T-Lounge by Dilmah.
Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil
It is the oldest and largest Hindu temple in Colombo. Dedicated to Gods Shiva and Ganesh, the temple is a fine example of Dravidian architecture. Its elaborately carved pillars & door, ceiling murals and colourful statues are impressive. The gopuram, adorned with sculptures of Hindu deities, is 80 feet tall.
Viharamahadevi Park
It is Colombo’s largest park and comes to bloom with flowers in March, April and early May. Built by the colonial British and named after their regent, Victoria, it was renamed after a queen consort of ancient Sri Lanka. There’s an artificial lake, a mini zoo and a children’s play area. There are comfy benches to sit on and enjoy the landscaped views.
Colombo Lotus Tower (Nelum Kuluna)
A symbol of modern Sri Lanka, the 356-meter (1,168-foot) tower is the island’s tallest skyscraper. It has a base resembling the lotus petals and gradually transitions into the stem, culminating in a bulbous pinnacle and representing the bud. Its observation deck offers views all around the city against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean. It has a revolving restaurant, leisure & entertainment area and banquet hall.
Stop and shop
Colombo is a dynamic city that blends the old with the new and modest with the grand. The tuk-tuk is the most convenient vehicle to hop off when you see something interesting to buy, eat or drink. Weaving in and out of Colombo’s many roads, you are in for many pleasant surprises and quirky sights.
Tuk-tuk safaris with Blue Lanka Tours
The tuk-tuk is a refreshing way to explore the cities of Sri Lanka. It is a cultural experience that reflects authentic local life. You get to see up close, interact more meaningfully and stay versatile on bustling streets.
Whether you are booking a tuk-tuk safari or renting a tuk-tuk to do it by yourself, we recommend it. Blue Lanka Tours custom designs holiday travel that brings meaning to you. We craft experiences that responsibly transcend the touristy. Explore our day tours and diverse ways to explore the great cities of this island.