CMB · 6.94° N · 79.85° E · Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka's seaside capital and the start of most island tours, with nonstop flights from London.
Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka and where most visits begin. Walk the seafront at Galle Face Green, explore the markets of Pettah and visit the Gangaramaya Temple by Beira Lake.
From Colombo the island opens up: the old Dutch fort at Galle and the beaches of the south coast, the hill country around Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, and the ancient cities of the north.
Entry rules depend on your passport and the reason for your trip, and they change. Check Sri Lanka's entry requirements before you book, and apply for any visa or travel authorisation only through official government websites.
See TravelHealthPro's Sri Lanka page and book a travel health appointment well before your trip. Colombo is hot all year, so drink plenty of water and use sun protection. Drink bottled water rather than tap water, take care with food, and use insect repellent against mosquito bites.
The currency is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). Keep some smaller notes for markets, three wheelers and small shops, tell your bank before you travel and check your card's fees for use abroad.
General information only, not legal or medical advice. Rules change, so check the official source before you travel.
Checked on 14 October 2026
Colombo is warm all year, with highs of about 30 to 32°C. January to March is the driest time. The heaviest rain falls in the monsoon seasons, from April to June and from September to November, with October the wettest month.
Three wheelers, also known as trishaws, are a mainstay of transport in Colombo and across Sri Lanka, and are handy for short trips around the city.
Dress modestly at temples and other religious sites. Never pose for a photo beside or in front of a statue or mural, and turn off your flash, because it can harm old paintings.
It depends on your passport and the purpose of your trip, so check Sri Lanka's entry requirements before you book. Apply for any visa or travel authorisation only through official government websites.
Checked on 14 October 2026
Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) serves Colombo. It is at Katunayake, about 32 kilometres north of the city.
January to March is usually the best time to visit Colombo, as it is the driest part of the year. The city is warm all year, but the monsoon seasons bring heavy rain from April to June and from September to November.
