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  • Restaurants

You’ve probably eaten a few mangoes and pineapples before. If you’ve been to one of the fancier worldwide supermarkets you might have even found a star-fruit. These are staple Sri Lankan exports, but the country has a whole host of fruits that are still relatively unknown. Some of these fruits grow in unlikely places, others are inedible without the right know-how; most of them are pretty special. RECOMMENDED: 📍 The best things to do in Sri Lanka

  • Cinemas
  • Multiplex
  • Kiribathgoda

A great way to spend some time with friends and family – watch a movie here! Features modern movie technology with digital sound systems and an air condiiotned hall with comfortable seating.

Medin Full Moon Poya Day
  • Things to do
  • Festivals

March 12 The Buddha had not returned to his home since leaving it on his quest for Nirvana. Repeated missives were sent by the king but the Buddha knew the time was not right. Each messenger sent joined the Buddha and took to robes. The last messenger was the minister Kaludai, who, after having himself taken the robes, urged the Buddha to revisit Kimbulwathpura, reminding him of the beauty of that kingdom during this season.  The Buddha’s visit to Kimbulwathpura was to bear much fruit. Not only did he reveal the doctrine to his family, he also managed to help his son Rahula and half-brother Nanda to attain the supreme bliss of Nirvana. 

  • Things to do
  • Festivals

Being a significant festival to the people of the Island, the Sinhala and Tamil New Year is celebrated with much pomp and fanfare. The transition of the Sun from the House of Pisces to the House of Aries marks the beginning of Aluth Avurudu (in Sinhala) and Puthandu (in Tamil) and is usually celebrated on April 14th every year. The whole island takes on a festive mood as people gear up for the upcoming celebrations by cleaning homes, shopping and making New Year sweetmeats, to begin the New Year on a joyous and positive note.

  • Art
  • Textiles

Colour, creativity and commerce abound when it comes to arts and crafts in Sri Lanka. Tradition and heritage are king, and people have been creating everything from jewellery to masks, lacquerware and ceramics here for time immemorial. While it hurts a little to bring the word ‘souvenir’ into such a proud piece of cultural heritage, sometimes two plus two equals four. These distinctive mementoes are available throughout the stores of Colombo but travel outside the capital to see the work that goes into making them. Prepare to be spellbound as deft hands weave intricate lace patterns out of nothing, or be amazed as the pottery wheels of Molagoda do their thing. 

  • Things to do
  • Festivals

Sweet meats and special dishes are an essential facet of the Sinhala and Tamil New Year. While they have come to be identified with and annual festival, some of these food items are also prepared to mark special occasions. Here are some sweet meats and other foods prepared in Buddhist and Hindu households this time around. 

  • Things to do
  • Festivals

Vesak is a celebration of the birth, enlightenment and passing away of Lord Buddha. The festival, which takes place on the full moon day in May, is one of Sri Lanka’s most visually stunning celebrations. Colombo is the epicentre of Vesak, and every year the streets are strung with hundreds of paper lanterns and lights. To really get involved you can make your own Vesak lantern, and it’s not difficult.  You will need: Either 1 packet of bendy straws OR 25 bamboo sticks cut to 25cm pieces Either 1 tea light candle and a piece of cardboard OR a lightbulb  Tissue paper of various colours Glue Scissors String or bendy wire for tying Tape Wire or fire-safe string for hanging

Traditional Sri Lankan musical instruments
  • Art

Sri Lankan folk music is rhythmic, layered and lilting. It combines the beat of the drum with the chink of tiny cymbals, and the call of the flute with the crescendo of a strong pair of lungs. This pulsing music is made by a whole host of traditional instruments, which are in turn made with local materials using traditional methods. Below we’ve featured ten of the instruments you’re less likely to encounter outside of the country, but Sri Lankan musicians also use interesting international sound-making contraptions like harmoniums and sitars.  

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels

Colombo is littered with countless hotels and selecting the best place to stay would indeed be a hard choice. From five-star to secluded boutique hotels, the choices are endless and we are here to help you narrow it down. For years, the hotels in our recommended list have been the preferred choice for both locals and tourists, owing to their reputations as ‘great’ places to spend your vacation or impress your clients. Not only famed for offering some of the best restaurants in the city, you can try an authentic Sri Lankan meal at Nuga Gama, or have a romantic dinner at Cinnamon Lakeside’s floating restaurant—8° on the Lake. If you are looking for a more laid back atmosphere, visit the colonial Mount Lavinia Hotel right by the Mount Lavinia Beach, overlooking the ocean or the Tintagel, famed for its elegant and unique decor. Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

  • Hotels
  • Boutique hotels

Looking for a little bit of affordable luxury in your life? Then only the best hotels in Sri Lanka will do. Home to endless beaches, a wealth of history, fascinating culture and some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet, there’s a reason why Sri Lanka is such a popular destination. Tucked away in alluring locations and offering guests beautiful views and exciting experiences, Sri Lanka’s best hotels are known for their standards of service and exquisite cuisine. From riverside guesthouses such as Colombo’s Villa Red to the modern penthouse at Kandy’s Theva Residency – find your home away from home in our list below and treat yourself to the best of Sri Lankan hospitality.  Recommended: the best hotels in ColomboRecommended: where to stay in KandyRecommended: the best boutique hotels and villas in Colombo Who makes the cut? While we might not stay in and review every hotel featured, we've based our list on our expert knowledge of the destination covered, editorial reviews, user reviews, hotel amenities and in-depth research to find you the best stays. This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.