COLOMBO

Colombo is the international gateway to the island of Sri Lanka, and so almost all visitors arrive by air. Luxury cruise ships berth here briefly. Colombo Situated in the western province of Sri Lanka and  is the island’s capital. The name ‘Colombo’ was first introduced by the Portuguese in 1505 and is believed to be derived from the classical Sinhalese name ‘Kolon thota’ (port on the river Kelani) or ‘Kola-amba-thota’ (harbor with leafy mango trees). Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA) in Katunayake, which is the only international airport in the country. The airport is located approximately 32km to the city center. Colombo remains both the commercial and financial capital of Sri Lanka even after the administrative capital has been moved to Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, a suburb east of the city. Since Colombo’s climate is tropical, any time of the year is suitable for travel. The city of Colombo offers historical monuments, colonial architecture, festivals and events, beaches, fine dining, and shopping. With so much to see, do, and experience in Colombo.