Colombo City Walk

Discover Colombo’s rich colonial and commercial heritage on this 2–3 hour guided walk, combining history, architecture and local life. Visit to Pettah Market offers an authentic glimpse into the city’s vibrant, everyday culture. The walk begins at the historic Old Dutch Hospital Precinct.

Highlights

• Explore Dutch and British-era buildings dating from the 17th century onwards
• Learn about Colombo’s commercial and cultural history from a local expert
• Experience the warm hospitality of locals and capture memorable photos
• Optional visit to Pettah Market, a bustling, non-touristic marketplace
• Stroll through the Old Dutch Hospital Precinct, a charming heritage area now filled with cafes and restaurants

Overview

Join Mark Forbes, renowned curator, researcher, and wildlife enthusiast, on an immersive journey through the heart of Colombo. This specially crafted city walk offers 2-3 hours of exploration through the capital’s vibrant streets, hidden alleyways, and bustling passageways of Fort and Pettah, revealing the city’s rich commercial and colonial heritage.

Starting from the historic Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, wander through the city’s lively neighborhoods and uncover hidden treasures and landmarks often missed by casual visitors. Marvel at Asia’s oldest clock tower, admire the colonial grandeur of the HSBC building, and delve into the fascinating history of the Grand Oriental Hotel, including insights into the budget allocated by the British Government for its construction.

The walk will be hosted by Mark or one of his colleagues, where they share blending stories of history, architecture, commerce and local life.