Description

Colombo is the business and commercial center and the new capital is Sri Jayawardhanapura Kotte, only a few miles away. Colombo was only a small seaport, which came into prominence in the 16th Century with the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505 and the development of it as a major Harbor took place during the British period. Colombo became the capital of Sri Lanka in 1815 after Kandyan Kingdom was ceded to the British. The remains of the buildings during the period of the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule are found in every area of the city. None of the Portuguese & Dutch fortifications are found today but some of their buildings and churches could be seen in the Fort & Pettah areas.  

Modern Colombo is now known for shopping and vibrant nightlife of the country. Some of the go to places in Colombo nowadays are Lotus Tower, Viharamahadevi Park, National Museum of Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple, Bere Lake, Colombo City Center, Independent Square, Red Mosque, Parliament, and Clock Tower.

Also some of the latest addition to Colombo are the One Galle Face shopping mall and the port city.