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The Atlas Obscura Guide To Colombo

8 Cool, Hidden, and Unusual Things to Do in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Updated October 5, 2018

Unusual Attractions in Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid (Red Mosque)

This mesmerizing architectural wonder will take your breath away with its unusual color patterns.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Pettah Floating Market

Pettah's beautiful floating market was once a stinky canal in a sketchy industrial area.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Borella Kanatte General Cemetery

This Sri Lankan cemetery is the final resting place of sci-fi legend Sir Arthur C. Clarke.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Planetarium

The first and only planetarium in Sri Lanka.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Isipathanaramaya Temple

This peaceful sanctuary is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Sambodhi Chaithya

This space rocket-like Buddhist stupa sits atop two giant arches and can be seen from out at sea.

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Gangaramaya Vihara Temple

Why is there a vintage Rolls Royce in this Buddhist temple?

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Kayman’s Gate Bell Tower

A neglected bell tower in modern Colombo is a symbol of the city's colonial past.

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