Once again, I had a big chunk of airmiles burning a hole in my virtual pocket, and it was time to explore the most efficient way to use British Airways’ generosity to my own advantage. I had a hankering to explore South Asia. Unfortunately, I was banned from India and had no desire to see Pakistan again. However, I could get to Sri Lanka for very little actual investment, leaving me some extra cash to spend on accommodations and excursions. So I booked myself a flight to the Sri Lankan capital of Colombo for June 2012, and a suite at the Hilton from which to explore the city and other parts of the country.
Arrived to a torrential downpour! What’s worse is that no-one told me that Sri Lankan drivers are the World’s MOST dangerous. Very scary trip from the airport to central Colombo.
The Hilton, Colombo
The view from my hotel room in Colombo, Sri Lanka. You can see Galle Face Green Promenade on the right hand side.Hotel gardens
Exploring Colombo
Presidential Secretariat, ColomboPresidential Secretariat, ColomboMobile Pizza Hut in Colombo. Now why can’t we have these at home???Sri Lankan Tuk-TukParliament Building This is the Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil. The main Hindu Temple in Colombo. I was urged to go inside but didn’t want to crash the wedding taking place when I arrived!The intricately carved Temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam KovilMain Street, Colombo, Sri Lanka.Got a very warm welcome at this Masjid in Pettah, Colombo. I just love the idea of visiting and praying in as many different Mosques as possible. Dutch Reform Church in Colombo. It’s the oldest church on the island and everything inside is 200+ years old. Was a bit uncomfortable as the caretaker showed me around and everywhere you go you are walking on the graves of the Dutch settlers who built it.Dutch Reform Church in ColomboDutch Reform Church in ColomboThe main Catholic Church in Colombo, Sri Lanka.Shaykh Usman Walliyullah Shrine and Mosque. Prayed here too, but it felt more like a business than a place of worship. Not comfortable!Shaykh Usman Walliyullah Shrine and MosqueShaykh Usman Walliyullah Shrine and MosqueThe main Baptist Church in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It’s just a stone’s throw from the local Mosque.Last night in Colombo. Watching the sunset.
Independence Square
Independence Square, dedicated to “Father of the Nation” Don Stephen Senanayake, the first Prime Minister of Ceylon.Independence Square, ColomboIndependence Memorial MuseumIndependence Memorial MuseumIndependence Memorial Museum, Colombo
Victoria Park
Entrance to Victoria Park, ColomboParliament Building in Colombo as seen from Victoria Park.
Gangaramaya Temple
The Gangaramaya Temple is the main Buddhist temple in central Colombo, and sits next to the beautiful Beira Lake. Built in the 19th century, no expense was spared by the wealthy shipping merchant who established it. I’m ashamed to admit I forgot to take my shoes off before I went inside to explore. No-one pointed out my faux pas, and I felt really bad afterwards that I’d inadvertently disrespected the people and the place!
Entrance to the main Buddhist Temple in Colombo – The Gangaramaya.Inside the main Buddhist Temple in Colombo, and I could have sworn I’ve seen this guy somewhere before. Isn’t he the Akuma character from Street Fighter IV???
Think I’m kidding? Google it!Beira Lake, ColomboBeira Lake, ColomboBeira Lake, ColomboBeira Lake, ColomboBeira Lake, Colombo
The National Museum of Colombo
The National Museum of Colombo.OMG!! Boooooobies!!Inside The National Museum of Colombo.Exploring the agricultural roots of Ceylon.Exploring the agricultural roots of Ceylon.Inside The National Museum of Colombo – yes that’s a dinosaur.
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