Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, reflects all the colors and cultures that make up this island nation. Colombo is the perfect launching pad to start your Sri Lanka vacation. A brilliant tourist hub in itself, Colombo is considered as the melting pot of traditions and cultures that is awash with a myriad of incredible distractions that will captivate the tourists. Exotic natural beauty, contemporary attractions, wonderful food and an extraordinary shopping scene – there is nothing in Colombo that makes tourists book plane tickets to any vacation destination!

However, it would not be wrong to say that, more than anything else, Colombo’s splendid architecture is what captivates tourists. From old colonial wonders to the glitz and glamor of contemporary structures, Colombo is a city whose architectural splendor is perhaps second to none, enticing many to take cheap flights to Colombo.

Colombo Architecture: An Overview

Colombo has an incredibly varied architecture that spans different eras and represents different styles. The city is almost a paradise for anyone and everyone who has even the slightest interest in design and architecture. Colombo boasts a brilliant selection of colonial buildings that are influenced by Portuguese, Dutch and British styles. The city also boasts a magnificent variety of Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Indian and contemporary architectural structures. In Colombo, one can come across a historic building dating back to the 1700s, right next to a towering modern skyscraper. Take a look at the city’s various architectural gems that make flights to Colombo such a popular affair.

Dutch Museum in Colombo

Colombo Dutch Museum portrays the history of Dutch colonization in Sri Lanka. It was built in the mid-17th century and, along with five other notable buildings, served as the residence of Count August Carl Van Ranzow. It was rebuilt as a museum and opened to the public in 1982. The Dutch Museum in Colombo has a fascinating array of unique architectural elements of the Dutch colonial style. The museum exhibits furniture, pottery, coins, and weapons that demonstrate the life and culture of Dutch merchants. It is an amazing attraction for all those who book cheap air tickets on flights to Colombo.

Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque

The Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque is one of the most remarkable structures in Colombo that fascinates one and all. The beautiful mosque has red and white stripes and was built in 1909. For all those who want to sample the incredible Islamic designs and styles, a visit to Colombo’s Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque is a must.

Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam

The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam is considered the oldest Hindu temple in the city of Colombo. Featuring traditional Hindu architectural patterns and designs, this temple has shrines dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ganesh. The Sri Kailawasanathar Swami Devasthanam is a fascinating opportunity for tourists taking cheap flights to Colombo to study the vibrant and wonderful Hindu art.

Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya

Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is one of the most important Buddhist temples found in and around Colombo. Built over 2000 years ago, Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya is a fine example of the splendid Buddhist architecture that draws many to search for cheap tickets on flights to Colombo. The Buddhist temple features impressive images of the reclining and preaching Buddha along with frescoes depicting episodes from his life.

churches

Colombo is awash with so many beautiful churches that it’s really hard to choose one! St. Peter’s Church near the Grand Oriental Hotel and the Wolvendaal Church on Wolfendahl Street are some of Colombo’s many old churches that attract tourists. As well as being religious sites, these churches are a good example of colonial architecture in Colombo.