Colombo - An urban gem surrounded by beaches and picturesque tea plantations

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital city, is a place where you can explore historical buildings and modern architecture, roam trendy galleries, and shop at some of the best markets in the continent. But more than an urban gem, Colombo offers a gateway to Sri Lanka’s star attractions. From the city you could take a short flight to reach the incredible Yala National Park, with the highest concentration of leopards in the world. Or take a scenic rail journey through lush tea plantations to the World Heritage city of Kandy, or along the country’s coastline to Galle, where you could visit the Dutch Fort. Colombo is also surrounded by incredible beaches, like Arugam Bay, a popular surfing spot, and beaches where you could spot whales, and go on diving adventures around spectacular islands. Last but not least, from Colombo you could head straight for the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the country’s most visited attraction. Brightsun Travel has exclusive holidays to Colombo, placing you in the perfect spot to explore all that Sri Lanka has to offer.

But don’t be too hasty to leave the city of Colombo. With so much on offer you will want to spend a few days in the city. You could start at the soon to be opened Lotus Tower building, which, after its opening in 2018, will be the tallest building in South Asia. Or, head to the Pettah market and experience a melting pot of cultures in Sri Lanka, with mosques and temples lining the streets. For museums and galleries, look no further than the National Museum and the Barefoot gallery, where you can catch a live jazz performance at the weekend. Or escape the city in the lovely Galle Face Green or Viharamahadevi Park, and enjoy a game of cricket, or simply stroll beautiful landscaped gardens. At night, head to the Old Dutch Hospital, a 17th century building that’s full of bars and clubs. Or, watch the sun go down from the 5 star Cinnamon Grand, cocktail in hand. Whatever you are looking for from a holiday to Sri Lanka, Colombo is a fantastic place to start, and Brightsun Travel has year round cheap holidays to Colombo that cover the country’s highlights.