Colombo National Museum Tours
Founded in 1877, the Colombo National Museum in central Colombo chronicles the history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Also called the Sri Lankan National Museum, the institution occupies a 19th-century Italianate-style building and attracts visitors eager to view its wide collection of treasures.
The Basics
Circled by lawns, the Colombo National Museum is fronted by a statue of Sir William Gregory, the museum’s founder and island governor from 1872 to 1877. Inside, visitors are greeted by one of the museum’s standouts—a large 5th-century statue of the seated Buddha. Spread over two stories, displays chart Sri Lanka’s ancient, medieval, and colonial past with everything from Bronze Age artifacts to coins, weapons, and art and include a library and natural history collections. Highlights include prehistoric cave paintings and the ornate golden throne and crown jewels of Kandy’s last kings.
Most Colombo city tours include the museum, with half-day tours giving time to view the must-sees and longer tours allowing you to explore in more depth. The museum also features on Colombo Jeep and afternoon tea tours for an added dose of fun and local culture.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get There
The museum stands on Albert Crescent in central Colombo, with its back to Viharamahadevi Park (formerly Victoria Park). The easiest way to get there is by cab or tuk-tuk—most drivers will know the way. If you’re going by bus, the nearest stop is the Glass House bus stop on Albert Crescent, just a short walk from the main entrance.
When to Get There
The Colombo National Museum is open from 9am to 5pm daily, but closed on public holidays such as full-moon days and Christmas Day. Be aware that many of the exhibition halls are shut around 30 minutes before closing time and last entry is an hour before full closure.
Get the Most from Your Colombo National Museum Visit
If your schedule is flexible, make time to enjoy the museum’s lovely café and gift shop after exploring. Also, take a stroll in the gardens to see their huge banyan trees—their shade will be welcome after touring the non-air-conditioned museum.
The Basics
Circled by lawns, the Colombo National Museum is fronted by a statue of Sir William Gregory, the museum’s founder and island governor from 1872 to 1877. Inside, visitors are greeted by one of the museum’s standouts—a large 5th-century statue of the seated Buddha. Spread over two stories, displays chart Sri Lanka’s ancient, medieval, and colonial past with everything from Bronze Age artifacts to coins, weapons, and art and include a library and natural history collections. Highlights include prehistoric cave paintings and the ornate golden throne and crown jewels of Kandy’s last kings.
Most Colombo city tours include the museum, with half-day tours giving time to view the must-sees and longer tours allowing you to explore in more depth. The museum also features on Colombo Jeep and afternoon tea tours for an added dose of fun and local culture.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Colombo National Museum is a must-visit for history fans and anyone interested in Sri Lankan culture.
- History buffs should choose a tour that provides two hours at the museum: There’s more than enough to fill the time.
- The museum has restrooms, a café, and a gift shop.
How to Get There
The museum stands on Albert Crescent in central Colombo, with its back to Viharamahadevi Park (formerly Victoria Park). The easiest way to get there is by cab or tuk-tuk—most drivers will know the way. If you’re going by bus, the nearest stop is the Glass House bus stop on Albert Crescent, just a short walk from the main entrance.
When to Get There
The Colombo National Museum is open from 9am to 5pm daily, but closed on public holidays such as full-moon days and Christmas Day. Be aware that many of the exhibition halls are shut around 30 minutes before closing time and last entry is an hour before full closure.
Get the Most from Your Colombo National Museum Visit
If your schedule is flexible, make time to enjoy the museum’s lovely café and gift shop after exploring. Also, take a stroll in the gardens to see their huge banyan trees—their shade will be welcome after touring the non-air-conditioned museum.
Address: Sir Marcus Fernando Mawatha, Colombo 00700, Sri Lanka
Admission: Varies
129 Tours and Activities to Experience Colombo National Museum
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Day TripsColombo City Tour
With this tour you can visit Colombo National Museum, Gangarama temple, Seema malaka, Independence Memorial Hall, Red Mosque and Kelaniya Raja Maha Viharaya and some other in a single day
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- 6 to 9 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$44.11
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Bus ToursColombo Shore Excursion: City Sightseeing Tour
When your cruise calls at Colombo, avoid the hassles of exploring Sri Lanka’s capital independently by booking this private tour. See all Colombo’s highlights, including the Seema Malaka Buddhist temple and Old Parliament; take photos of the Old Lighthouse Clock Tower and Independence Square; dive into Pettah’s street markets, and more—all with a guide to handle logistics and shed light on the city’s history and culture. Includes port pickup and drop-off and air-conditioned transport.
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- 3 to 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$56.00
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Bus ToursColombo City Tour with Holiday Walkers Sri Lanka
Colombo like many capital cities in developing countries is fast changing its face. The journey of your tour will be Highlights of Colombo. Explore Colombo City.
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- 3 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$70.20
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Bus ToursPrivate Colombo City Tour
Sightseeing in Colombo can be stressful if you’re using cabs or the often-crowded buses. Check out the city’s attractions in one smooth, easy trip on this private tour, with a guide to fill you in on the sights. Traveling by private air-conditioned vehicle, visit Seema Malaka, the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, and more; and tailor the duration and itinerary to suit your personal wishes. Central hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.
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- 4 to 8 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
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$21.34
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Half-day ToursHalf Day Private Custom Colombo City Tour
Explore Colombo’s sights as you wish, without having to figure out routes or public buses, on this customizable private half-day tour. Traveling by air-conditioned car with a personal driver, cherry-pick from the recommended sights and activities to do and see what you want. Explore Pettah Market, Gangarama Temple, the National Museum, and more—the choice is yours. A choice of departure times and hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$28.00
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Half-day ToursShore Excursion Colombo City Tour Highlights
Exploring Colombo independently and the risk of getting lost or delayed. Make things easy with a private shore excursion that whisks you around the sights smoothly and comfortably. Travel by private vehicle, visit top sights such as the Seema Malakaya Temple, shop for souvenirs at handicrafts emporiums and hear tales of local life from your driver that you'd miss if alone.
• Explore Colombo with ease on a private shore excursion from the cruise port or your hotel in Colombo
• Forget cabs or buses,sightseeing stress-free by private air-conditioned car
• See the sights, shop at markets, and hear about local life and history
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
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$45.00
Bus ToursHalf Day Colombo City Tour
Sightseeing in Colombo can be stressful if you’re using cabs or the often-crowded buses. Check out the city’s attractions in one smooth, easy trip on this private tour, with a guide to fill you in on the sights. Traveling by private air-conditioned vehicle, visit Seema Malaka, the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, and more; and tailor the duration and itinerary to suit your personal wishes. Central hotel pickup and drop-off are included for convenience.
... More
- 1 to 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$20.00
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Day TripsRediscover Colombo
Rediscover-Colombo is a personalized city experience through the old city of Colombo, an unforgettable experience with your host as you drive & walk through the picturesque streets of Colombo and the mayhem of Pettah. It has been over 9 years now, since Chan, the boy behind Rediscover-Colombo, started to share his experience and knowledge enabling guests to spend a day or an evening in beautiful colonial Colombo. Continuous research goes into the areas you will visit and we truly believe that we learn something new every day.
When contacting us via phone or email, you will either speak with Chan or his partner Nish as we are a company that feel personalization is key, hence we have just three others Lakshan, Ishan & Ruvini who work with us.
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- 1 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$64.00
Multi-day Tours6N/7D Kandy + Nuwaraeliya + Bentota + Colombo From CMB
Covering central & high land Top-Rated tourist sightseeing and tour activities with best things to do such as Royal Botanical Garden,sacred tooth relics temple in last capital city of Srilanka. moreover,famous down town market in Kandy including absorbing south Beach relax,Real way to experiences of Srilanka. Highland variety mountains scenic and tea plantation obviously mesmerize.Don't missed out.Book today. cheapest cost 7 days including accommodation transport.
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- 7 days
- Free Cancellation
From
$870.00
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Bus ToursExplore Colombo
Ceylon Expedicey works with industry experts and guides and chauffeurs with experience and knowledge. Personalized care and the assurance for the safety and security will be our strengths. Book with us for more fun and excitement. We assure that you will have an amazing yet a memorable experience with us.
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- 4 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$70.00
Multi-day Tours4N/5D Sigiriya + Kandy + Nuwaraeliya + Colombo From Colombo or Negombo
Covering Srilanka hill side beauty full lands caps including tea plantation,hiking,water rafting,jungle tracking ,water falls many more.As well as,few of main tourist sites such as,Sigiriya fortress,last capital city of Kandy and local experiences.
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- 5 days
- Free Cancellation
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$720.00
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Bus ToursColombo City Tour from Colombo Port
Discover the most beautiful places of Colombo and the countless sights of the largest trading center of Sri Lanka.
Within the city limits of Colombo and the administrative capital you will get to know the city better and learn more about the history, the culture and the different places and sights.
Visit the Colombo Lighthouse, the prison cell of the last Sri Lankan king, and the Lighthouse with the Clock Tower designed by Lady Ward.
See also the Galle Face Promenade, with cannons from the Second World War, the southern extension of the port of Colombo, York Street, with remains of British colonial architecture and the Slave Island.
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- 6 to 10 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$100.00
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Full-day ToursPrivate Colombo Shore Excursions From Colombo Port
The largest and busiest port in Sri Lanka as well as in South Asia. Located in Colombo city, on the southwestern shores on the Kelani River, Colombo port is an important terminal in Asia due to its strategic location in the Indian Ocean. During the 1980s, the port underwent rapid modernization with the installation of Cranes, Gantries and other modern-day terminal requirements. Currently with a capacity of 4.1 million TEUs and a dredged depth of over 15 m (49 ft), the Colombo Harbour is one of the busiest ports in the world, and ranks among the top 35 ports. It is also one of the biggest artificial harbours in the world. The Port of Colombo is home to the second tallest building in South Asia and is the center for many commercial interests. The port offers excellent services for cruise operators. The city also offers a variety of services for passengers visiting the port.
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- 8 hours
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$318.94
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Half-day ToursColombo Tuk Tuk Tour
We'll pick you up from your hotel in Colombo at 9:30 am or 3:30 pm, depending on what you've booked, to begin your tuk-tuk tour of the colorful Sri Lankan city of Colombo. Your expert guide will reveal some key facts about the island and its history, and before you know it you'll be zooming around the streets in your tuk-tuk.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
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$81.00
Bus ToursShore Excursion Colombo Port Terminal To Colombo City Tour Highlights
Go on a comfortable and in-depth exploration of Colombo from your cruise ship on this shore excursion tour. Depart from the port in an air-conditioned vehicle with a driver and learn about the history of the city. Spot many of the city’s highlights, including the National Museum,
Old Parliament, Independence Memorial Arcade, Beire Lake, and more.
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- 4 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$30.67
Price varies by group size
Half-day ToursShore Excursion Colombo Port Terminal To Colombo City Tour Highlights
Explore Colombo City with a local in an air-conditioned vehicle. During this 4-6 hour tour, learn about Sri Lanka's capital city, visiting its most popular attractions. This family friendly tour is highly recommended for first time visitors.
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- 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$31.00
Price varies by group size
Bus ToursShore Excursion Colombo Port Terminal To Colombo City Tour Highlights
When your ship docks in Colombo's port, explore the city on a full-day comprehensive tour. After convenient pickup right at the cruise port, set out for the city to see all the highlights and landmarks in just a single day. This tour is perfect for those cruise passengers short on time, and the carefully crafted itinerary makes sure you don't miss a thing. Between sightseeing and listening to guided commentary, you'll stop for an included lunch to keep you energized.
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- 4 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
- Taking safety measures
From
$44.00
Price varies by group size
Overnight ToursColombo City Tour just for 30$
1. The best guides are full of knowledge.
2. We are friendly and charismatic.
3. You can meet fascinating fellow travellers.
4. You're supporting an entrepreneur's business.
5. It's only a couple of hours of your trip.
6. Tours come with ample photo opportunities.
7. You can seek out recommendations for what to do on your own.
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- 2 days
- Free Cancellation
From
$29.87
Mountain Bike ToursColombo City Tour
Colombo is the largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka. This is the financial center of the Sri Lanka and a popular tourist destination. Colombo is located on the country’s west coast and with a population of between 800,000 and one million (estimates vary) is by far the country’s biggest city, as well as the most developed city. Colombo is a busy and vibrant place with a mixture of modern life and colonial buildings, ruins and sprawling street markets which overflow with high-piled fruit and vegetables, colourful silks and cottons, and deliciously fragrant spices. There is a lively nightlife at a number of International standard hotels, clubs, pubs and dining venues while it is limited mainly to the high end customer. During the day, Colombo’s colourful street markets, colonial-era buildings, museums and galleries, churches, mosques and temples, and the lovely Viharamahadevi Park with it beautiful trees, makes it a great place to explore.
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- 4 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$40.00
Half-day ToursColombo City Tour
Colombo is the Commercial Capital and the largest city of the country. Visiting Colombo is a major tourist attraction in Sri Lanka and we would like to show you the major highlights of Colombo City during your visit. You will see Colonial Buildings, can experience Sri Lankan culture, tradition and can experience the modern Sri Lankan life during your tour. We bring you the best personalize guiding tour of Colombo
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- 3 hours 30 minutes
- Free Cancellation
From
$58.67
Bus ToursColombo City Tour
Explore Colombo City with your private chauffeur. During this 4-hour tour, learn about Sri Lanka's capital city, visiting its most popular attractions. This family friendly tour is highly recommended for first time visitors.
... More
- 2 hours 30 minutes to 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$51.40
per group
Half-day ToursColombo City tour by Tuk-Tuk
The best way to explore the city of Colombo is by a Tuk-Tuk. This tour with the MICE team visits Gangarama temple, Hindu stone temple, independent square and Colombo museum. Colombo is a jarring mix of old and new, with high-rise office blocks and hotels overshadowing red-tiled colonial-era buildings and sprawling street markets. On its crowded streets there are places of religious background around the city. You will be able to experience the urban life with mixed cultures and mixed ethnicity in the city of Colombo.
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- 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$85.34
Bus ToursColombo City Tour
Enjoy a city like a local. All our chauffeurs are efficient and friendly. They will provide all the facilities / services you need. rather than according to your interest other hidden places are shown in addition to the main points.
We highly recommend participating at this tour on first, to have many useful hints about what to do and what to see after the tour and some precious tips that will help you to feel like a local while in Sri Lanka!
You will see Colombo through the eyes of a local, and we hope that this tour will be the highlight of your time in Colombo!
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- 4 to 6 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$45.00
per group
Bus Tours4-Hours Colombo City Tour
Colombo—once called the "garden city of the East"—has a lot to offer: resort-like beaches, colonial architecture, national history museums, and Buddhist temples. It can be a challenge to pack it in eve on one trip, but this private tour gives a great introduction to the city in about half a day, taking you to see the city’s top sights and unconventional attractions to discover how locals live.
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- 3 to 4 hours
- Free Cancellation
From
$30.00
Price varies by group size
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