Discovering Colombo: A Journey Through Sri Lanka’s Capital

There’s something enchanting about stepping off a plane into a place that feels both calm and intriguing. For many travelers, this experience begins with the soft welcome of a salty sea breeze, the gentle rustling of leaves, and the quiet confidence of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s capital. Here, there’s no rush, no fanfare—just an invitation to slow down and explore.

Colombo is a city reinventing itself, where laid-back island life meets luxury in a way that is both refreshing and captivating. Although my stay was brief—just two days in Sri Lanka’s largest city—I promised myself to make the most of every moment.

First Stop: City of Dreams

As we drove along the coast, Colombo slowly unfolded before us. The Indian Ocean stretched endlessly beside us, and the Lotus Tower stood tall in the distance. Suddenly, the City of Dreams (COD) emerged—bold, massive, and unlike any other property in the city.

Inaugurated in August 2025, COD is South Asia’s first integrated resort, combining a hotel, casino, convention center, shops, restaurants, and entertainment facilities. It’s a place where staying, shopping, dining, and playing blend into one seamless experience.

Luxury Without the Pretension

Our home for the stay was Cinnamon Life, part of the integrated resort. This hotel perfectly balances style with a relaxed vibe, ideal for vacationers. While the adjacent Nuwa caters to those seeking quiet luxury, Cinnamon Life feels designed for those who appreciate modern design infused with vibrant colors.

Upon arrival, we were greeted with a hot towel and a refreshing lime drink. Our room featured floor-to-ceiling windows offering stunning views of Colombo’s skyline and the Indian Ocean, with the twin towers nearby adding character to the scene. Naturally, I couldn’t resist capturing the view for my mandatory Instagram room tour video.

Exploring the hotel further, we found lobbies alive with art installations and large canvases. Over 500 local artisans contributed to the resort’s design, giving it a distinctly Sri Lankan narrative. One installation, a puzzle-like sculpture, beautifully captured the country’s ongoing blend of tradition and change.

Food That Tells a Story

No trip is complete without sampling local cuisine, and Colombo did not disappoint. At Quizine, one of the 17 restaurants and bars within COD, we indulged in a buffet that was part local, part global. We savored Sri Lankan staples like Kuraakan roti (finger millet rotis) and Pol roti (traditional coconut roti), alongside seafood, meats, and fusion dishes.

Even at 7 PM on a Friday, Colombo’s roads moved slowly—no blaring horns, no mad rush. Just an easy, measured pace that felt like a luxury in itself. Later, we made a pitstop at Flux, the rooftop cocktail lounge. With a drink in hand, I embraced the tourist experience, taking in spectacular views of the sea and the distant city. It was refreshing to unwind without the pressure of rushing back anywhere.

The next day, we enjoyed lunch at Indiya, where I sought a taste of home. As a curious journalist, I wanted to explore options for Indian travelers beyond Sri Lanka’s local fare. Spoiler alert: I was not disappointed. The nachni kebab, a finger millet patty with yogurt cheese, mint, and tomatoes, stole the show, while the Jodhpuri mirchi provided the perfect spicy companion to round off our quintessential Indian meal.

A Bit of Retail Therapy and Local Vibes

While COD is a world unto itself, we ventured out to experience life in Colombo. Our first stop was the Gangaramaya Temple, one of the city’s most visited temples. Afterward, I sought souvenirs for family and friends, making the Pettah floating market a perfect stop for spices and local snacks.

Our last stop was the Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil, one of the city’s oldest and most revered Hindu temples. By the end of this whirlwind tour, we were exhausted but exhilarated. Yet, as soon as I returned to the hotel, the resort’s shopping area beckoned.

‘The Shoppe,’ a compact but well-curated shopping area, featured authentic Sri Lankan tea, local jewelry, apparel, and beauty products—perfect for a second round of shopping. A restricted casino door hinted at another layer of the resort’s luxury world, inviting those curious enough to try their luck.

On our second day, we took a leisurely stroll to One Galle Face Mall, just 15 minutes away from COD. The absence of crowds and the gentle pace reminded us that Colombo operates on its own relaxed clock. Most shops closed by 7:30 PM, prompting thoughts about the kind of work-life balance I aspire to achieve.

The Slow Luxury of Colombo

Sri Lanka has long been a favorite getaway for Indians seeking a mix of luxury, history, and culture. In fact, visa applications to the island surged nearly sevenfold in 2025 compared to the previous year, thanks to easier e-visas that facilitate spontaneous trips.

With City of Dreams offering a world of luxury, dining, entertainment, and leisure all under one roof, Colombo is poised to attract even more travelers looking for that perfect blend of comfort and discovery.

In just two days, I discovered a city that invites you to slow down, savor each moment, and embrace the beauty of life at a different pace.