As the plane descended over the shimmering waters of the Indian Ocean, I felt a flutter of excitement. It was April 2010, and after an idyllic escape in the Maldives, my partner and I decided to extend our adventure with a two-night detour in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Little did I know that this coastal city, steeped in over 2,000 years of history as a key trading hub along ancient East-West sea routes, would weave its way into my heart with its blend of old-world charm, modern vibrancy, and warm hospitality.
Arrival at Taj Samudra: A Luxurious Welcome
Our journey began with a warm embrace from the Taj Samudra Hotel, a five-star oasis perched along Colombo’s coastline. As we stepped into the grand lobby, the scent of jasmine and the soft hum of traditional Sri Lankan music greeted us. The hotel’s sprawling grounds, kissed by the salty breeze of the Indian Ocean, felt like a sanctuary.
Our room offered a breathtaking view of the ocean, its waves glinting under the tropical sun. The Taj Samudra wasn’t just a place to stay—it was an experience. From the indulgent spa to the sparkling pool, every detail was designed for comfort. That first evening, we dined at one of the hotel’s restaurants, savouring a fragrant curry that set the tone for the culinary delights to come. I knew then that Colombo was going to be special.
Day One: Sunset Strolls and Street Food at Galle Face Green
Our first full day in Colombo dawned bright and warm, the kind of day that begs you to step outside and explore. We made our way to Galle Face Green, a sprawling oceanfront park that’s as much a gathering place for locals as it is a magnet for visitors. The promenade buzzed with life—children flying kites, couples strolling hand in hand, and vendors calling out their wares.
From Galle Face Green, we wandered toward the historic Fort area, a district that whispers tales of Colombo’s colonial past. The Fort, once a stronghold of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, is now a bustling hub of government buildings and colonial architecture.
I was struck by the sight of an ancient cannon, its weathered surface facing the Indian Ocean, standing as a silent sentinel of history.
Nearby, the Presidential Secretariat Building, a grand relic of British colonial rule, caught my eye. Built in 1930 to house the Legislative Council of Ceylon, it exudes an air of grandeur that belies its age. Its cream-colored facade and stately columns made me feel like I was stepping back in time, yet the hum of modern Colombo—scooters zipping by and vendors hawking their goods—kept me firmly in the present.
Day Two: Temples, Tributes, and Bustling Markets
The second day brought a brief spell of rain, but it did little to dampen our spirits. We set out to explore Colombo’s cultural heart, starting with the iconic Gangaramaya Temple. Tucked amid the city’s bustle, this Buddhist temple is a serene masterpiece, blending Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles.
As we stepped inside, the air grew still, filled with the faint scent of incense. The temple complex was a treasure trove—a museum packed with relics, a library brimming with ancient texts, and a golden Buddha statue that seemed to radiate calm. The highlight, though, was stumbling upon a group of monks bathing a sacred elephant in a nearby lake. The gentle giant splashed playfully in the water, and I stood transfixed, feeling a profound sense of peace wash over me. The temple’s intricate wooden carvings and vibrant murals were a feast for the eyes, each telling a story of faith and tradition.
Next, we made our way to the Independence Memorial Hall, a monument that stands as a proud testament to Sri Lanka’s journey to self-rule.
Built on the very spot where the nation’s first parliament was opened in 1948, the hall is adorned with 60 stone lions, each representing a Sinhalese king in the style of Kandy’s rich cultural heritage.
At the head of the monument stands a statue of Rt. Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake, Sri Lanka’s first prime minister, is revered as the “Father of the Nation.” Standing there, surrounded by the quiet dignity of the memorial, I felt a deep respect for the resilience of a nation that had carved its own path after centuries of colonial rule.
No visit to Colombo would be complete without diving into the chaotic, colourful world of Pettah Market. As we stepped into its labyrinthine alleys, my senses were overwhelmed by a kaleidoscope of sights, sounds, and smells. Stalls overflowed with everything from vibrant spices to glittering jewellery, and vendors called out in a melodic cadence, inviting us to explore their wares. I haggled for a small bag of saffron, its rich aroma a promise of future culinary experiments. The market was a microcosm of Colombo itself—vibrant, diverse, and brimming with life.
A Farewell Feast and Lasting Memories
As our final evening in Colombo approached, we returned to the Taj Samudra, reluctant to let the adventure end. The hotel’s seafood restaurant beckoned, and we indulged in a feast of fresh prawns, crab, and fish, each dish bursting with the flavours of the ocean. As we dined, the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the Indian Ocean. It was the perfect end to a whirlwind weekend.
Reflecting on our time in Colombo, I was struck by the city’s ability to balance tradition and modernity. From the sacred serenity of Gangaramaya Temple to the lively chaos of Pettah Market, from the historic echoes of the Fort to the laid-back charm of Galle Face Green, Colombo is a city that tells a thousand stories.
It’s a place where history lingers in every corner, yet the pulse of contemporary life beats strong. Our two nights in the city were far too short, but they left me with memories I’ll carry forever—and a longing to return to this coastal gem that so effortlessly stole my heart.
For anyone seeking a weekend getaway that blends culture, history, and natural beauty, Colombo is a destination that delivers in spades. Whether you’re savouring spicy street food, exploring ancient temples, or simply soaking in the ocean breeze, this city promises an experience that lingers long after you’ve left its shores.
