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Colombo

As Sri Lanka's largest city, largest port and capital, Colombo is a frenetic hive of major activity.

Much of Colombo's history centres around its large natural harbour, which was known to most trading nations of the ancient world. It was later settled by a Moorish community in about the 8th century AD. When the Portuguese arrived in 1505, they gained control of the port - and it was from here that they were able to capture both the city of Colombo and much of the western coastline.

In later years, the city passed to the Dutch, and then the British, who made Colombo their capital and administrative centre for the whole of the island. Much of the current city's road system and largest buildings developed from the British plans. Little changed in appearance when Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948.

Having had such a long history with many varied religions and cultural influences, today Colombo is a delightful patchwork of colonial buildings set alongside decorative temples and even futuristic skyscrapers. With a lively buzz, appealing open markets and some alluring green spaces, Colombo is now one of Asia's premier destinations.

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1 result matching: Escorted Rail Tours to Colombo

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Sri Lanka, Temples and Tea
Save £200pp
4.9 stars(10 reviews)
2024OctNovDec
2025JanFebMarOctNovDec
15 days from
£3,195 pp £2,995 pp
View Details
Save £200pp
15 days from
£3,195
£2,995
per person
View Details
Tour map
  • DestinationSri Lanka
  • Starts / EndsLondon Heathrow
  • AccommodationHotel
  • TransportFlight, Coach
Map and accommodation
Our customers love our Colombo tours
Sri Lanka's Leopards and Temples
27/Mar
Cp
5 stars
“An amazing holiday well organised with Harry our Sri Lanka guide whose knowledge enhanced the whole trip.A very good tour leader in Sheila. Lovely hotels and food, great scenery and the tea picking was great fun. Highly recommended Great Rail Journeys.
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