Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Colombo

THE 10 BEST Cheap Things to Do in Colombo

Best Budget-Friendly Things to Do in Colombo

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213 results sorted by traveler favorites
  • Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, number of page views, and user location.
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Showing results 1-30 of 213

What travelers are saying

  • Bhashana Jayakody
    8 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Gangaramaya Temple, though not ancient, is an iconic modern temple in Colombo. Most of its funding comes from local residents and Sri Lankan donors worldwide. The Bodhi tree base was constructed with support from the 6th King of Bhutan, showcasing its international ties.

    The temple is popular among Colombo’s higher-income communities and is known for its museum-like interior, featuring historical artifacts, including Sri Lanka’s first Rolls-Royce car.

    Visitors should note there is an entrance fee of 500 LKR for foreigners.
    Written January 24, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Kekin2011
    Mumbai, India310 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We were here on an early Saturday morning. It was quite busy but in a good way. People were walking, exercising and sunbathing as well. Our hotel, Berjaya was right beside the beach and we had an over-bridge to reach the beach from our hotel (there was a train track under the bridge). There were a few restaurants that were literally on the beach itself.

    It's a fairly long beach. There were some watersports activities happening. I remember jet skiing. Although, we didn't do any.
    Written January 31, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Nine Arch Travel & Tours sri lanka.
    Kandy, Sri Lanka464 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Bar Crawler at Galle Face offers an exciting and vibrant way to explore Colombo’s nightlife. The tour takes you through some of the best bars and pubs in the area, offering great drink specials and a lively social atmosphere. Galle Face, with its oceanfront views, provides a perfect backdrop for an enjoyable night out. Whether you're a local or tourist, this bar crawl is a fun way to meet new people, discover hidden gems, and experience the best of Colombo's nightlife.

    Written February 5, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • LolaGo1
    Washington DC, DC6,618 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Located near the Lotus Tower, we visited this Hindu Temple next. Like any Hidu temples, we were asked to take off our shoes as soon as we entered the compound. I thought we would only take off our shoes when we enter inside the temples.

    We hurriedly took some pictures here and left. The ground is rough and hot for us to take off our shoes outside of the temples.
    Written March 7, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Sean M.
    Blantyre, Malawi533 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    We visited this museum in December 2024 as part of our visit to Colombo. The building and it's grounds are the first thing that strike you as memorable. The exhibits themselves are decent and the museum is well curated and signposted. Worth a visit.
    Written January 11, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Travel With Sam (Sampath)
    Kandawatha, Sri Lanka70 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the iconic places close to Colombo just 10Km distance and 20 minutes drive. Lord buddha have visited this place and have preached damma to the Nagas, Who lived in the kelaniya. King Maniakkitha have made a sthupa enshrining a chair made of gold and gems at the place of buddha have preached damma. The sacred bodhi tree is worshiped by the devotees during the week preaching suthra and you can see people carrying pots filled with water clockwise around the bodhi tree.
    Written December 31, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Appetitesindia
    Mumbai, India573 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    While exploring the vibrant streets of Pettah, we visited the stunning mosque we’d heard so much about. The architecture is breathtaking, showcasing intricate designs and vibrant colors. The serene atmosphere inside is perfect for offering prayers and experiencing a moment of peace amidst the bustling market. Observing the locals perform Namaz was a humbling and enriching experience. This mosque is not just a place of worship but also a testament to the rich cultural and architectural heritage of Colombo. A must-visit for anyone interested in spirituality and beautiful architecture!
    Written July 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Appetitesindia
    Mumbai, India573 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Our family visit to Pettah Market in Colombo was a fantastic experience! This bustling local market offers an incredible variety of items, from clothes, kitchenware, and shoes to jewelry, groceries, and fresh fruits. The vibrant atmosphere, friendly vendors, and the sheer diversity of products make it a must-visit destination for anyone in search of daily essentials or unique finds. Whether you’re looking for practical household items or just soaking in the local culture, Pettah Market has something for everyone. Highly recommended for an authentic Colombo shopping experience!
    Written July 27, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Mel S
    Bristol, UK236 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Nice place if you want some quiet reflection. Full of dating couples so romance in the air. Very well maintained park. Easy to park as well
    Written January 25, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Connector43684459068
    Bengaluru, India50 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    Independence Square is a historical landmark located right in the heart of Cinnamon Gardens in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is one of the popular places of heritage in Colombo and among the prime places to visit during your Sri Lanka Trip. It takes its name from the Independence Memorial Hall built there to commemorate the independence of Sri Lanka from British rule in 1948.

    The column and pillars are decorated with traditional Sri Lankan designs and statues of lions are placed around the building. In front of the memorial hall is a statue of the founding Prime Minister of Sri Lanka, Don Stephen Senanayake.
    Written January 3, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Glenda
    Mumbai, India89 contributions
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    the shrine is so beautiful and serene and we really felt so humble entering the church. we were blessed with holy water by the priest. lovely experience.
    Written November 1, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • laczkozsu
    Debrecen, Hungary2,489 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    This part is totally different than Pettah. It was the centre of Dutch and Portuguese colonialism, so we saw some colonial style buildings but also many modern luxury hotels. Today it is the seat of bankers and traders, and home to Sri Lanka's own twin towers.
    Written June 30, 2024
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • roshad21
    Colombo, Sri Lanka8 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I’m a regular at good market and enjoy my weekly visits to buy our supply of natural, healthy, organic food. My purchases include but not limited to fresh fruits & veges, juicy lemons, king coconuts, pure bee's honey, kitul jaggery & honey. My favourite stall at good market is “Soul Food” run by the ever so beautiful, warm & friendly couple Ina & Saliya! I not only get my almond milk & almond butter plus the occasional yummy desserts, which are of utmost quality and value for money, but Ina also shares some valuable health tips, motivating you to live healthier. Ina & Saliya are truly amazing!
    Written January 18, 2019
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Michael Morris
    Palma de Mallorca, Spain63 contributions
    4.0 of 5 bubbles
    I visited this temple an hour before sunset to catch the last light of day reflecting off the golden Buddha statues. The views of the city across the water are wonderful and the environment is perfect for meditation.
    Written November 19, 2021
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
  • Maria G
    1 contribution
    5.0 of 5 bubbles
    Me and my family are traveling sri lanka for 10 days, and a private driver is the best way to move around.
    Our driver Asanka is the best, since the first minute at the airport he was caring and nice. He’s always on time, drives safe and he makes sure we have enough water. When we go on hikes he always makes sure we are doing okay and he waits for the slowest person in my family. He also gives us tips to plan our day better.
    We are glad he is our driver. These days in sri lanka are incredible and unforgettable.
    Written February 4, 2025
    This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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