Colombo History

Colombo History

Highlights & Features

  • Walk the streets with a local advocate of the often overlooked city
  • Mingle with local life on Pettah’s streets, passing buildings steeped in history
  • Witness the changing face of Colombo from the past, present and to its future
  • Includes: Guide and water
  • Times: 8:30am and 4:00pm for 2 hours
  • Children: Welcome
  • Wear/bring: Light clothes & walking shoes
The Full Experience

Traverse the varied streets of a city rooted in trading, a colonial past and around every corner buildings from another era remain hidden between renovations.

Begin nearby colourful produce behind the old town hall where your local host will set the scene for your journey ahead.  Hear of the colonial powers and Arab traders who visited “the pearl of the Indian Ocean” and put this lesser known city on the map from the 14th century onward. Much of Colombo’s architecture is an intriguing memento of the past, whether this be a Mosque or old Dutch Bell Tower out of sight along vendor-lined streets or the renovated statement buildings in a recently re-opened part of town.   Glimpse the future of Colombo as you arrive at the Dutch Hospital, surrounded by high rise buildings, new hotels and café culture.

Hosted by Raconteur

Born and bred in Colombo, your host began developing his walk in the city to share his passion for developing authentic and soulful experiences after working for a jungle eco resort in Yala. With a passion for giving back to the community and travel, when not curating experiences for visitors he volunteers at the National Institute of Mental Health conducting art therapy, or hops on his motorbike to a secluded spot to camp and read.

Inquire About This experience

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