Weird & Unusual Attractions in Colombo, Western, Sri Lanka
1. Galle Face Jellyfish Park
A unique park where you can find and learn about various species of jellyfish in their tanks.
- Rare Species: Offers a chance to see some rare and exotic jellyfish species.
- Interactive Experience: Allows visitors to interact with the jellyfish under careful supervision.
- Educational: Provides educational material about the life cycle, habits, and conservation of jellyfish.
2. Lunugamvehera Pond House
An eco-friendly boutique hotel built on stilts over a wildlife-rich pond.
- Unique Accommodation: Provides a unique accommodation experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's wilderness.
- Wildlife Observation: Allows guests to observe wildlife up close without disturbing their natural habitat.
- Sustainable Tourism: Dedicated to promoting sustainable tourism practices and minimizing environmental impact.
3. Red House Colombo
A historic building that once served as the British Resident's Office, now a vibrant art gallery and event space.
- Historic Landmark: Showcases Colombo's rich colonial history through its architecture.
- Art Gallery: Hosts a diverse range of art exhibitions and cultural events.
- Community Hub: Serves as a gathering place for local artists, performers, and the creative community.
4. The Dutch Period Museum
A museum dedicated to preserving and showcasing artifacts from the Dutch colonial era.
- Colonial History: Offers a deep dive into the Dutch colonial period in Sri Lanka.
- Authentic Artifacts: Features an extensive collection of artifacts, documents, and paintings from the era.
- Interactive Experience: Provides interactive exhibits to engage visitors in a fun and educational way.
5. Gangaramaya Temple
A Buddhist temple known for its mix of traditional and modern architecture.
- Architectural Mix: Blends traditional Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles.
- Cultural Hub: Serves as a center for cultural exchange and learning.
- Social Projects: Supports various social initiatives including an orphanage, library, and university.
6. Barefoot Garden Restaurant
A restaurant built on stilts over a lagoon, offering a unique dining experience.
- Unusual Setting: Offers diners a one-of-a-kind dining experience over the water.
- Local Cuisine: Serves delicious Sri Lankan dishes made with fresh, local ingredients.
- Sustainable Practices: Emphasizes sustainable practices and minimizing environmental impact.
7. Slave Island Colombo
A historical area that was once a hub for slave trading during the Dutch colonial era.
- Dark History: Offers insights into a dark chapter of Colombo's history.
- Architectural Gems: Features beautifully preserved colonial-era buildings.
- Modern Transformation: Today, it's a bustling residential and commercial area with modern infrastructure.
8. Independence Square Colombo
A large public square designed to commemorate Sri Lanka's independence from British rule.
- Historic Monument: Serves as a symbol of Sri Lanka's independence and national pride.
- Architectural Marvel: Designed by the famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa.
- Event Venue: Hosts various national events, concerts, and exhibitions throughout the year.
9. The Blue Mosque Colombo
A beautiful mosque known for its unique blue color.
- Blue Architecture: Stand out with its stunning blue minarets and domes.
- Peaceful Atmosphere: Offers a tranquil space for reflection and meditation.
- Architectural Blend: A harmonious blend of Sri Lankan, Arabic, and Moorish architectural styles.
10. The Colombo City Cemetery
An old cemetery that serves as a historic landmark.
- Historical Graves: Contains graves of many important figures from Sri Lanka's history.
- Architectural Interest: Features unique tombstones and mausoleums that showcase various architectural styles.
- Green Space: Provides a peaceful green space in the heart of Colombo.
11. The Ministry of Crab Colombo
A restaurant famous for serving some of the best crabs in Sri Lanka.
- Delicious Seafood: Serves mouthwatering crab dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.
- Celebrity Chefs: Run by acclaimed chefs Dharshan Munidasa and Darshan Dohenwaduge.
- Unique Ambiance: Features a rustic, coastal-inspired decor with a touch of luxury.
12. The National Museum of Colombo
Sri Lanka's largest museum showcasing the country's rich history and culture.
- Cultural Richness: Features a vast collection of artifacts dating back thousands of years.
- Educational Experience: Offers visitors an enriching educational experience.
- Architectural Beauty: Housed in a beautiful colonial-era building.
13. The Independence Memorial Hall
A monument dedicated to Sri Lanka's independence struggle.
- Historical Significance: A symbol of Sri Lanka's independence and freedom.
- Architectural Wonder: Designed by the famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa.
- Tourist Attraction: A popular tourist destination and a must-visit in Colombo.
14. The Gangabewela Zoological Garden
An unusual zoo located inside a city park, featuring a variety of local and exotic animals.
- City Zoo: A unique zoo experience within a bustling city.
- Wide Variety: Features a wide variety of animals including lions, elephants, and reptiles.
- Conservation Efforts: Dedicated to the conservation and protection of endangered species.
15. St. Lucia's Cathedral Colombo
The largest place of Christian worship in Sri Lanka with a unique architectural style.
- Large Scale: Can accommodate over 2,000 people at a time.
- Architectural Mix: Features a mix of Gothic and colonial architectural styles.
- Historic Landmark: Serves as an important symbol of Christianity in Sri Lanka.