Search flights to Colombo

Colombo, the capital and largest city of Sri Lanka, is a bustling metropolis that blends modern urban life with rich colonial history and diverse cultural influences. As of 2023, Colombo has a population of approximately 750,000 people, making it the economic and cultural heart of the island nation.

The climate of Colombo is tropical, with warm temperatures and high humidity throughout the year. The city experiences two main monsoon seasons, from May to August and October to January, which bring significant rainfall. The best time to visit Colombo is from December to March, when the weather is relatively dry and ideal for sightseeing.

Colombo is served by Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), located about 35 kilometers north of the city center. The airport is a major hub in South Asia, offering good connectivity to various international destinations, including direct flights from Saudi Arabia. Airlines such as SriLankan Airlines, Saudia, and Qatar Airways operate regular flights to Colombo from major Saudi cities like Riyadh, Jeddah, and Dammam.

Colombo’s cuisine reflects the city’s multicultural heritage, offering a variety of flavorful dishes. Sri Lankan cuisine is known for its bold use of spices, with dishes like Rice and Curry, Kottu Roti (a type of chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables and meat), and Hoppers (a type of pancake made from fermented rice flour). For dessert, visitors should try Watalappan, a rich coconut custard pudding flavored with cardamom and jaggery.

Colombo is home to several key attractions that showcase its history and culture. The Galle Face Green, a large oceanfront park, is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and a great place to enjoy street food. The National Museum of Colombo houses a vast collection of artifacts that trace Sri Lanka’s history from ancient times to the present.

For those interested in religious and cultural sites, the Gangaramaya Temple is a must-visit, blending elements of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture. The Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, with its striking red-and-white striped facade, is another architectural gem in the heart of the city.

Outdoor activities in Colombo include a visit to the Viharamahadevi Park, the city’s largest and oldest public park, which is perfect for leisurely walks and picnics. The Pettah Market, one of the busiest and most vibrant areas of the city, offers a unique shopping experience with its maze of narrow streets filled with stalls selling everything from spices to textiles.

Saudi Arabian nationals visiting Colombo will need to apply for a visa prior to their arrival in Sri Lanka. The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system allows Saudi citizens to apply for a tourist visa online, making the process quick and convenient. It is advisable to check the latest visa requirements and travel advisories before planning your trip.