Population: 752,993
TransportationBeachesThings To DoMore...
More Topics...

Living in Colombo, Sri Lanka:
Tips for Moving and Visiting

34 local experts
Share

If you've been wondering what it's like to live in or visit Colombo, the Crowdsourced Explorer community can help. We asked 34 people living in Colombo what someone who is considering moving to or visiting there should know. Here are their pros and cons, tips, and advice:

Share
Share Tips and Advice about Colombo

34 comments on “Colombo”

If you are moving to Colombo, Sri Lanka, most important thing you want to have is lot of water to hydrate yourself. Because it’s so hot here right now! I am born and bread in Colombo and even I can’t bear the heat! Other than that it’s a cool city to live in. You have all the opportunities to earn, study and live in this country. It’s one of the safest cities in the world, especially for females. There is lot of culture and diversity in Colombo. Lots of food and partying.

Shanika Gamage, says: 2023

The heat and humidity. If someone is moving here from a colder climate, then the first thing that usually hits them is the unbearable heat. Sure, Colombo does sit right next to the ocean but it’s still hot as it gets! If you are accustomed to humid conditions, then you would find Colombo a nice city to move into. The cost of living is cheap compared to other cities in the region. Traffic is bad, but not as bad as in some major capitals around the world. The food is great, the people are welcoming and you don’t need to know the local language to get around, English works just fine.

Thoshan, says: 2020

All the basic facilities are found in our city. The housing cost is comparatively less. The quality of life is excellent here and the cost of living is also pretty low. There are local supermarkets and you will find almost everything you need in the town without having to travel a lot.

Jayoda, says: 2020

Know how to speak in English or Sinhala. Anyone can survive in my city if they are smart enough. If they have a job or any income it’d be easy to survive. They must know about transport facilities, healthcare and etc. Transport and healthcare is quite cheap here so, anyone can survive here easily.

Savidya, says: 2020

The city is very congested. Commuters experience traffic jams all over the city. It is not a pleasant place. Many people leave the city after spending a few years. Those who consider moving to the city should avoid areas near the parliament. As the land prices are too high people should buy apartments. If there are children, parents should focus on international schools.

Colombo, Sri Lanka, is a busy city at day because of traffic jams. But apart from that it’s a nice city to move to, you could have fun at the movies, you could go shopping, you can even satisfy your late night cravings cause of Uber eat and Pick me food deliveries.

Mishal, says: 2020

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka, which has a rich history and a quite conservative tradition. On the other hand, the Western influence on Colombo as a transportation and industry hub in the Indian Ocean blends with our Sri Lankan culture to create a unique experience. To experience Colombo is to know Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.

Colombo is a beautiful city, wit the Ocean around, is Capital of Sri Lanka. Colombo is famous for Hospitality, We have most famous hotel chain cultural centre, Colombo is the business hub of Sri Lanka, older days it call as pearl of the Indian ocean today Colombo is very important as port in the south Indian ocean.

Colombo is a great city with ample of facilities for residential and entertainment. It provides all necessities that are available in any other developed countries. Your kids will find high school facilities and few best universities in Colombo. There are plenty of sightseeing locations in and around Colombo.

Fathima, says: 2020

Colombo is a bustling yet beautiful city. Known as the heart of Sri Lanka, Colombo is home to multicultural, warm-hearted people and great food. It is surrounded by beautiful beaches, trees, buildings and a warm, vital climate that provides a summer feeling.

Navoda, says: 2020

Someone moving to Colombo should know there are scammers who try to exploit the situation. They should always try to travel using a known agency because there are scammers who try to charge more from people who don’t have enough knowledge about the city.

Joseph, says: 2020

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka it is quite affordable The nightlife here is great but if you are a girl you should be extra careful as there are people who are dangerous. Tap water is not safe at all therefore, I recommend you drink bottled water and the cuisine here is the best.

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka. Currently it has the highest number of population out of all the cities. The city is well developed when compared to the other cities. The city attracts people all around the world for its beauty. Colombo can be considered the city which has the highest property value estimated in Sri Lanka.

If moving to Colombo, here is a list of things that you should know. Firstly, find a good neighborhood to move to to. Having good neighbors goes a long way in the long run. Second, traffic can get really bad, so make sure to always leave an hour earlier.

Lashane, says: 2020

The environmental atmosphere is soothing. When it comes to law and order, it is easy going with no such severe restrictions. Considering the job market competition, employment is available to your satisfaction. There are plenty grocery shops and supermarkets too. Transportation functions in a reliable manner. The people are very kind and friendly and easy to get on with.

Akeesha, says: 2020

If someone were moving to Colombo, they should consider renting an apartment in Colombo five or Colombo seven areas. They’re the safest areas. Colombo has terrible traffic and noise, but if you can get used to it, there’s a lot to enjoy. It also has great food, lovely nightlife, and a small but thriving arts scene.

Colombo is the capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka by population. Colombo is consist of the harbour, the airport. In Colombo, you can find lots of beautiful places like Diavanna garden galle face etc. You can get lots of experiences by visiting Colombo city. we have good hospitality as well.

Savithri, says: 2020

Colombo is the considered to be the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. In the past ten years, the city has welcomed some of the best hot spots, such as; the One Galle Face Mall, the Colombo City Center, and the Marino Mall. In addition to the existing interests such as the variety of restaurants and hotels catering to the different taste palettes of our visitors. If you do ever visit Colombo, you will require more than a week, as there is way too much to be seen. make sure you have a really good itinerary.

Savidya, says: 2020

Colombo is the capital of Sri Lanka. It is one of the safest place to stay in South East Asia. It has all the facilities available from good educational institutes to world class hospitals. Being a small island nation with relatively less population density, the natural resources are well preserved.

Seminie, says: 2020

Someone moving to Colombo should consider the weather. In addition to having a tropical climate, the city is also by the ocean, which increases the humidity level. However, there are ocean breezes which can help counteract this stifling effect. Another key factor to be aware of is where you will be living. Areas close to commercial and entertainment hotspots will help you avoid the crush of commuting, especially during peak hours.

Loraine, says: 2020

Colombo is a highly residential city with all modern day facilities. But the cost of living in Colombo is very high compared to other major cities in Sri Lanka. Mt Lavinia beach, which is just 15 minutes from Colombo is one of the most famous beaches in South Asian region.

Naveen, says: 2020

Colombo is the commercial capital of my country, hence resulting in severe traffic congestion almost all day. It is also difficult to communicate with the locals as most people speak the native language, which isn’t to be English. Other than that, it’s a great city to live and grow up in.

Savidya, says: 2020

Colombo is one of the best developing cities in the world. There are plenty of places to visit around the city. Colombo is famous for its street food and the welcoming nature of the people.

Roshanthini, says: 2020

Colombo is a lovely place but visitors should be wary of the local tuk drivers. While tuks are a convenient and economical method of transportation, the drivers can sometimes overcharge fares, especially if they sense that the person does not know Colombo very well yet. Other than that, the city is full of interesting places to visit and there are some destinations out of the capital that folks would really enjoy.

Warnitha, says: 2020

The city is near the beach and along the beach lays the railway track. If you don’t like the sound of the train, I don’t recommend you to get a house near the beach. But if you don’t mind the sound, you can get a modern house with a spectacular view near the beach.

Sajana, says: 2020

Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is a fast-moving city of business and trade. While it’s a great place if you are aiming to earn some money, it also comes with higher living costs than the rest of the island and loads of pollution. The intense noise, the colorful people, the strange sometimes pungent aromas, and the tongue tingling tastes of street food make the city an interesting mishmash of good and bad. Be ready for people who smile brightly in your face while speaking harshly behind your back. Those who love to party would appreciate the lively nightlife of Colombo though.

Fathima, says: 2020

Colombo is a city filled with life. People are friendly and are really helpful. There are a lot of exciting places to visit and food to enjoy. People in Sri Lanka live with unity and respect all races, religions and cultures not thinking about the difference above but deep within.

Pamoda, says: 2020

Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, is a great coastal city. The people are some of the most hospitable in the world. The city is somewhat hot year-round, so it is best for those who enjoy summer-like climate. There are lots of tourist centers, including a swim on the sandy beaches.

Nalinie, says: 2020

Colombo is one of the most busiest cities in Sri Lanka. It is also a beautiful city. There are many places you can visit whenever you feel bored. Many skyscrapers are being built. Colombo City Center is one of the main attraction point. Viharamahadevi park, Nelum kuluna, Nelum pokuna are the new attraction point in Colombo.

Akeesha, says: 2020

Colombo is a vibrant city which has a varied mix of the old and the new. With ancient museums, sunny beaches, buzzing markets and rich greenery, there is never a dull day in Colombo. The city is best visited at night since it is infamous for its nightlife. The most common form of transport is the rickshaw which would be an exciting experience for tourists. Colombo is a beautiful city which everyone must visit at least once in their life.

When moving to Colombo, beware of the immense traffic. People don’t follow the road rules and they tend to make their own lanes. In the morning, traffic is hectic, so make sure to leave early before going outdoors to the shops. If you take the chance to walk, mind your steps and where you are going as the road could be dirtied by litter.

Gayanthi, says: 2020

It is the busiest city in Sri Lanka. However, it provides a range of opportunities for students, and those seeking employment, as most of the educational and business organizations are located here. It is also the financial and political capital of the country. It would be a suitable location for anyone looking for opportunities to move up in life.

The most important factor to consider moving here is the cost of living. The cost of living is higher than other cities in my country. Further one should consider climatic changes of the city. Another most important factor to consider is about the jobs available in the city.

Navoda, says: 2020

Colombo is an exotic city that fuses the old and new. It’s a city best explored at night since it’s known for its nightlife. You can gain a rare experience by traveling in a rickshaw, the most popular travel mode in Sri Lanka. Colombo is also home to sandy beaches, buzzing markets, and ancient museums.

Samadhi, says: 2020

Comments are closed.

Names of respondents may have been changed.

See other cities and towns in Western.

Share
Share