Posted on Wednesday, 25 Febraury 2026
As part of the practical training component of the Tourism and Cultural Resource Management Degree Program, the Department organised a Colombo City Heritage Tour to enhance students’ field-based learning experience. The tour was conducted using a double-decker sightseeing bus provided by Ebert Silva Holidays and was guided by a professional National Tourist Guide Lecturer.
The field visit offered students valuable exposure to Colombo’s historical, cultural, religious, and architectural heritage while strengthening their understanding of tour-guiding techniques and itinerary planning in an urban tourism context. The main objectives of the tour were to provide practical exposure to tour guiding and interpretation techniques, understand the planning and implementation of a city tour itinerary, identify and analyse Colombo’s cultural, historical, and religious attractions, develop observation and communication skills in heritage tourism, and connect theoretical knowledge with real-world tourism experiences.
The tour began at the Colombo Lighthouse area in Colombo Fort, an important maritime landmark symbolising Sri Lanka’s longstanding relationship with navigation and coastal trade. Although not open to internal visits, the lighthouse area offers an excellent view of the harbour and reflects Colombo’s historical importance as a strategic port city since ancient times.
The second stop was the Colombo Maritime Museum, located in the old Dutch Prison building near the harbour. The museum highlights Sri Lanka’s maritime history, shipwreck archaeology, ancient navigation systems, and the development of Colombo as a major trading hub. Exhibits such as anchors, cannons, navigation instruments, and historical maps provide strong archaeological evidence of past maritime activity and colonial naval influence.
The third destination was the Dutch Hospital in Colombo Fort, one of the oldest surviving colonial buildings in the city. Originally built during the Dutch colonial period as a medical facility for soldiers and traders, it later served administrative purposes under the British. Today, it stands as a preserved heritage site showcasing Dutch colonial architecture, with thick coral stone walls, large verandas, and open courtyards, now functioning as a commercial and leisure precinct.
The fourth stop was the Sri Ponnambalawaneswaram Hindu Temple in Kotahena, one of the most significant Hindu temples in Colombo. Built entirely of granite stone, this Dravidian-style temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva and reflects the strong cultural and religious presence of the Tamil Hindu community in Sri Lanka. Its intricate stone carvings, rituals, and festivals, such as Maha Shivaratri, highlight its religious and cultural importance.
The fifth destination was St. Michael’s and All Angels Church in Kotahena, a historic Anglican church established during the British colonial period. The church reflects Gothic architectural influences, with pointed arches, stained-glass windows, and detailed wooden craftsmanship. It continues to serve the local Christian community and represents Colombo’s colonial religious heritage.
The sixth stop was St. Lucia’s Cathedral in Kotahena, the main Roman Catholic cathedral in Sri Lanka and the seat of the Archbishop of Colombo. Originally established in the 18th century and later rebuilt in the early 20th century, the cathedral features grand European-style architecture with large columns, statues of saints, and a prominent dome. It remains one of the most important religious and architectural landmarks in the country.
The seventh destination was the Old Town Hall in Pettah, a colonial-era Neo-Gothic building constructed between 1865 and 1873. It served as the first headquarters of the Colombo Municipal Council and represents the beginning of organised urban governance in Colombo. Today, it functions as a museum displaying historical artefacts related to municipal administration and early urban development.
The eighth stop was the Sri Kaileswaram Hindu Temple, also known as Captain’s Garden Temple, located near the Lotus Tower. It is one of the oldest Hindu temples in Colombo, established by South Indian traders over 200 years ago. The temple showcases traditional Dravidian architecture, with a decorated gopuram and intricate sculptures, and remains an active centre of Hindu worship and cultural practice.
The ninth destination was Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most famous Buddhist temples, located near Beira Lake. Established in the 19th century, it combines Sri Lankan, Thai, Chinese, and Indian architectural styles. The temple functions not only as a place of worship but also as a museum, educational centre, and social service institution, making it a key cultural attraction in Colombo.
The tenth stop was Isipathanaramaya Temple in Thimbirigasyaya, built in 1916 in memory of Captain Henry Pedris. The temple holds significant historical significance linked to Sri Lanka’s colonial resistance. It is also known for its artistic value, especially the murals painted by Maligawage Sarlis, which depict scenes from the life of the Buddha in a distinctive style blending traditional and modern influences.
The final destination was Independence Square in Colombo 07, a national monument commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. The Independence Memorial Hall reflects Kandyan architectural influence with stone pillars, carvings, and lion statues. The site symbolises national identity and self-governance and also features the statue of D. S. Senanayake, the first Prime Minister of independent Sri Lanka.
Throughout the tour, students observed professional tour-guiding techniques, including heritage interpretation, storytelling, time management, and visitor engagement. The guide effectively connected each site with its historical, cultural, and religious context, making the experience both educational and engaging.
The Colombo City Heritage Tour provided an enriching academic experience by combining classroom knowledge with practical field exposure. The selected destinations reflected Colombo’s diverse heritage, including maritime history, colonial architecture, religious diversity, and national identity. This field visit significantly enhanced students’ understanding of tour guiding and itinerary planning while contributing to their professional development in the tourism industry.
