ColomboSri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s capitalColombo offers views over the Laccadive Sea, historic architecture and amazingstreet food. There are museums, zoos and art galleries to explore and beaches ashort drive from the city centre.

If you want to get to knowthe heart of the city and its people, a visit to the markets is a must. Hereyou can try Kottu Roti, a local specialty made by stir-frying strips of rotibread with vegetables and meat. Wash it all down with a coconut juice.

Families shouldn’tmiss the elephant show at the National Zoological Gardens. There are alsomonkeys, hippos, Sri Lankan leopards and fishing cats to see here. Head to thezoo’s aquarium to admire an underwater wonderland, and spend some time in thetranquil Butterfly Garden.

Explore Colombo’slayered history with a tour of its architectural gems. Dutch colonial buildingslike the 18th-century Wolvendaal Church, with its carved wooden pews, stand incontrast to Buddhist temples. Visit Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, which hasgolden Buddha statues and paintings.

Join the locals whocome to relax at the Galle Face promenade, a green park close to the city andright on the water. Enjoy a picnic and take in sunsets over the Laccadive Sea.Stay for the night markets, where you can sample local delicacies such as salt-and chilli-covered mango.The weather intropical Colombo is mostly warm and sunny, except during monsoon season from Aprilto June and October to December, when there are regular bouts of heavy rain. Come outside these months to rent acar and visit the beautiful palm tree-lined beaches on the west coast of SriLanka north and south of the city.