Things To Do
in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, the administrative capital of Sri Lanka, is a city rich in history and culture. Nestled just outside of Colombo, it is known for its lush greenery, ancient temples, and vibrant community. The city serves as a hub of political activity while offering visitors a glimpse into the tranquil lifestyle of suburban Sri Lanka.
Exploring its parks, historical sites, and local markets provides a unique experience away from the bustling urban centers.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte Rajamaha Viharaya, an ancient Buddhist temple known for its stunning architecture and serene environment.
After lunch at a local restaurant, head to the nearby Kotte Archaeological Museum to learn about the rich history and artifacts of the region.
Conclude your day with a stroll in the Diyatha Uyana park, enjoying the sunset and local street food from vendors in the area.
Begin your day with a visit to the picturesque Beddagana Wetland Park, where you can explore its diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a café by the lake, followed by a boat ride to explore the waterways and observe local wildlife.
Head back to the city for dinner at a popular restaurant, and end the night with a visit to a local bar or pub to experience the nightlife.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍛Meal at a local restaurant | $3-5 |
| ☕Coffee | $1-2 |
| 🍺Local beer | $2-3 |
| 🚕Taxi fare (short distance) | $1-3 |
| 🛒Groceries (weekly) | $20-30 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural and historical experiences
- Less crowded than Colombo, providing a more relaxed atmosphere
- Access to beautiful natural parks and outdoor activities
- Limited nightlife compared to larger cities
- Some areas may lack tourist infrastructure
- Public transportation can be less frequent and less reliable
- "Ayubowan" - Hello (may you live long)
- "Bohoma istuti" - Thank you very much
- "Kohomada?" - How are you?
- "Sama weda?" - What is your name?
- "Ehema natha" - No problem
Places to Visit in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Visit one of these nice places.
Known for its beautiful landscaping and serene lake views, this park offers stunning spots for photography, especially during sunset.
The intricate architecture and historical significance of this temple make it an excellent location for capturing cultural and architectural photography.
A nature lover's paradise, this park provides opportunities to photograph diverse wildlife, including birds and various plant species.
Food in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular street food made from chopped roti mixed with vegetables, eggs, or meat, cooked on a hot plate with spices.
Must-Try!
A traditional Sri Lankan dish made of fermented rice flour and coconut milk, shaped into bowl-like pancakes, often served with spicy sambol.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A vibrant market near the Diyatha Uyana park offering a variety of local street foods and snacks, perfect for lunch or an evening snack.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
When encountering Buddhist monks, it is important to show respect, such as avoiding physical contact and dressing modestly.
Visitors must remove shoes before entering temples as a sign of respect. It's advisable to wear easy-to-remove footwear.
When giving or receiving items, use your right hand only, as the left hand is considered unclean in Sri Lankan culture.
Safety
Tipping in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Sri Lanka. A tip of around 10% is customary in restaurants if service is not included.
Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are increasingly used in larger establishments. Always carry some cash for street vendors and small shops.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Expect heavy rainfall and occasional flooding. It's advisable to carry an umbrella and plan indoor activities.
This is the best time to visit with pleasant weather and less humidity. Outdoor activities and sightseeing can be enjoyed extensively.
Temperatures can be quite high, making it important to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen while exploring.
This period features many local festivals and celebrations, providing a unique cultural experience for visitors.
Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte at Night
Hiking in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Located about 70 kilometers from Kotte, this UNESCO World Heritage site offers breathtaking hikes through lush rainforests with diverse wildlife.
Approximately 100 kilometers away, this area features multiple hiking trails varying in difficulty and providing stunning mountain views and unique flora.
Airports
How to reach Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte by plane.
Located about 35 kilometers from Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, this is the main international airport in Sri Lanka, providing connections to many global destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, the Sinhala community predominantly practices Buddhism and speaks Sinhala.
The Tamil community, while smaller in number, contributes to the cultural diversity of the city, with many members being involved in trade and education.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Cricket is the most popular sport in Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte, with many local clubs and schools participating in matches and tournaments.
Rugby is also popular, particularly among schools and universities, with several teams competing in local leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Sri Jayewardenepura Kotte.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Sri Lankan cuisine offers many vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask about ingredients used in curries as some may contain fish sauce.
Gluten-free options are limited, but rice-based dishes are widely available. Always check with the restaurant for specific gluten-free preparations.