Enjoy your holiday in Colombo by trying out some exhilarating water activities. Water sports in Colombo are a great way to have a good time, clear your mind, and relax. As an island, Sri Lanka offers clear emeralds that are ideal for a range of water sports. You'll see a wide range of marine life and be able to cross a number of them off your list. This place offers it all, from huge blue whales to nudibranchs, making it overall perfect for new experiences.
You may participate in a variety of sports such as river rafting, snorkeling, scuba diving and much more as water activities in Colombo offer you a whole new scene of adrenaline driven fun. The waves are typically not too challenging for these activities, and there are several locations along the east and south coasts that are suitable for beginners and intermediates as well.
May it be river rafting in Kitulgala, kayaking with your pals in Kalu Ganga, or diving deep into the emerald water during scuba diving, each and every activity is performed under the supervision of experts, so your safety would be the top most priority. So without that fear in mind, make sure to make the most of the Indian Ocean's exotic seas by challenging your inner self.
- 2H
- Colombo
- 2H
- Colombo
- 12H
- Colombo
- 2D
- Colombo
Colombo Top Attractions
Places To Visit In Colombo
The largest museum in Sri Lanka, the National Museum of Colombo was established in January 1877 by Sir William Henry Gregory, the then British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka). Currently maintained by the Department of National Museum of the central government, the museum is home to a lot of important collections, including the crown and throne of the Kandyan monarchs.Housed in a two-storied building, the museum has a big, well-maintained, lush green lawn right in front that is shaded by mighty banyan trees, which adds to the beauty of the place. As you enter the museum, you shall also find a fourth-century Buddha smiling at you in the lobby. Going forward, you will be mesmerized to find the collections in the museum.The galleries are as old as 1877, and you shall find all sorts of ancient art, carvings, and statues from Sri Lanka’s past along with a collection of antique demon masks. You can also find guns, swords, and other things from the colonial times. If you love art, you are totally in for a treat as the gallery also has in display 19th-century reproductions of English paintings of Sri Lanka.On display are the royal throne made for King Wimaladharmasuriya II in 1693, the 9th-century bronze Bodhisattva Sandals, and much more. And that is not all. There are agricultural displays and many more things that are sure to grab your attention and leave a mark in your memories.
The tallest skyscraper of Sri Lanka- Colombo Lotus tower is also known as “Nelum Kuluna” in Sinhala. Colombo lotus tower is one of the most famous tourist sites in the town of Colombo, Sri Lanka. Standing at a height of 356 meters this tower is the tallest tower in South Asia, 11th tallest tower in Asia and 19th tallest tower in the world. It has become one of the major tourist attractions in Sri Lanka and popular among tourists. If you plan on visiting the country then this tower is a must-visit. It basically serves as a transmission tower for tv and radio. Besides being a transmission and communicating tower it also serves various leisure activities. There are banquet halls, shopping malls, hotels with suites, restaurants, museums, auditoriums and much more for the tourist to explore in the tower. There is a revolving restaurant at the top which provides a scenic view of the city. It completes one rotation every 90 minutes. This tower is one of the biggest highlights of Colombo and due to its enormous length, it can be seen from as far as 10kms from the main site. Approximately 50 television and radio broadcasters can be accommodated in the tower, along with 20 telecommunication providers. Lotus tower can attract more than thousands of tourists every day. It is open 24 hours and 365 days of the year for the tourists. On special festivals such as Pongal, Diwali, Eid, Christmas and many more the interiors of the tower are decorated accordingly. This tower is surely a gem in the busy city of Colombo and must not be missed if you are planning to tour this beautiful city.
Galle face green, a mesmerizing destination with a magnificent coast, it is one of the most admired grounds in the world. Found in Colombo, the Galle face green park is spread across an enormous area of more than 12 acres. Running alongside the picturesque costs, the park is celebrated among various tourists as an extraordinary spot to relish upon a number of activities including gazing at the mesmerizing sunset, enjoying delicious street food, picnics, taking a tour of the ancient Galle Fort, kite flying, volleyball, and many more adventures. The origin story of this enigmatic urban park goes way back to the 18th century. It was Sir Henry Ward, Governor of the British Ceylon who had first proposed the notion of constructing this park. The park is now a go to spot for tens of hundreds of localities and international tourists for various recreational activities. From delicious delicacies of Srilanka to multitudes of beach adventures, visitors are found here having a time of their lives. What makes the place even more special is it's fun ambiance that allows even the little ones to open their wings and fly. In other words, it doesn't matter if you are a sports fanatic looking to indulge in some thrills or a food fanatic craving for some flavorful munchies, you will find everything here at the Galle face green. Additionally, some of the most prominent events including hosting the largest artificial Christmas Tree in the world during Christmas are held on this ground. All in all, a fun place to delight upon the beautiful landscape, indulge in some adventures with friends and family and savoring a few delicious street foods, Galle face green can quite simply be your next weekend destination.
Popular Water Sports Destinations
People Also Ask About Water Sports in Colombo
-
What are the best water sports to do in Colombo?
1. Scuba Diving: For enthusiasts, Scuba Diving is the best equipped water sport in Colombo. Sri Lanka's marine life is equally diverse, ranging from wrecks to coral reefs submerged in underwater caves and offshore places. There are a variety of aquatic creatures to see underwater, as well as seasonal sightings of blue whales.
Scuba diving is influenced by the monsoon season, with most dive sites available from May to September on the east coast and October to April on the west coast. Scuba diving ranges from relatively rare dives along the shore to small boats transporting divers to various dive locations for a 10 or 45 minute voyage. While diving, most dive sites provide a view of the ocean paradise.
Location: Wave Seafood and Grill Restaurant, De Alwis Pl, Dehiwala-Mount Lavinia, Sri Lanka
Timing: 7:00 AM - 4:00 PM
2. White Water Rafting: White Water Rafting is one of the formidable and diligent water sports in Colombo. This sport does need physical strength rather demands an ample level of physical fitness with a strong spirit. This sport is performed in the White-waters as well as in turbulent water resources.
The main reason for this sport known to be an adventurous sport is because of the turbulent stream of water. White Water Rafting at Kitulgala gives you a chance to enjoy an adrenaline filled and enthralling experience for both first time rafters and also for experts too.
Location: Ginigathena road Yatiberiya kitulgala, Kitulgala 71720, Sri Lanka
Timing: 7:30 AM - 9:30 PM
3. Snorkeling: In Colombo, snorkelling is the best type of water sport. Sri Lanka is famed for its marine ecosystem, making it the best and most exotic snorkelling destination for discovering undiscovered marine species. On the west coast, November to April is the best period to go snorkelling, whereas on the east coast, April to September is the best time.
Snorkeling exposes you to a completely different underwater world, from magnificent coral reefs to submerged shipwrecks. Snorkeling allows you to swim and snorkel with whales, several turtle types, and other marine animals.
Location: 40 Windsor Ave, Colombo 10350, Sri Lanka
Timing: 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM
4. Surfing: In Colombo, surfing is a popular water sport that will splash you with thrilling waves. There are two distinct surfing areas in Sri Lanka. The two provinces are the Southern Province and the Eastern Province. Between November and April, you can find ideal surfing conditions in Southern Province.
The major surfing season in Eastern Province runs from May to September. The south coast has a diverse assortment of waves to choose from. Small, calm beaches, hollow reefs, and barreling waves await all types of surfers in Colombo.
Location: No: 8 Ascot Ave, Colombo 00500, Sri Lanka
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
5. Kayaking: One of the most popular and specialist water sports in Colombo is kayaking expeditions through huge mangrove and jungle waterways. The tributaries and man-made reservoirs provide an unrivalled opportunity to go by boat or kayak along these water bodies. The primary problem of these watersports is the varied degrees of difficulty.
Changing from smooth and still water kayaking in the Kalaiya, in the country's north west, to the white-water fast turbulence of the Kelani river in Kitulgala. You will be exploring Kalu river and facing the rapids while also experiencing the Mangrove forest on your trek across the extensive river system.
Location: 151/1B Dudley Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 00800, Sri Lanka
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
6. Deep sea Fishing: Deep sea fishing is one of Colombo's most interesting and enjoyable aquatic activities. Sri Lanka is a major source of seafood and a popular inland destination for deep sea fishing. Catching a variety of fish in a quiet river might be a relaxing morning deep sea fishing in Colombo.
Going out on a larger boat with a mission will undoubtedly provide excitement and competitiveness in the pursuit of large and distinctive marine species. Anyone who like fishing is welcome to participate in this water sport. Small freshwater fish can be caught onshore, while larger fish must be caught by sailing deep into the sea.
Location: 54 Palliyawatta Rd, Wattala, Sri Lanka
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
7. Kitesurfing: In Colombo, kitesurfing is a unique water sport that is akin to surfing. Kitesurfing is usually done during two windy seasons. The major kitesurfing season spans from mid-May until late-September. The finest kitesurfing season is from December through mid-February/early-March.
Kalpitiya is a small village with a shallow water lagoon that is recognised as a kitesurfer's paradise. Kitesurfing is very popular here. People go from all over the world to participate in this thrilling water activity.
Location: 323 Union Pl, Colombo 01000, Sri Lanka
Timing: 9:00 AM - 9:30 PM
8. Jet Skiing: Jet skiing is an exhilarating water sport that may be enjoyed with vigour and enthusiasm. This water sport begins from Bolgoda Lake and ends in the vast expanse of the unmarked southern lake. Within the ride, you will witness an amazing wildy landscape while having a fantastic time.
While riding through Bolgoda Lake, you will see many different types of fish, amphibians, reptiles, including the salt-water crocodile, and many lovely kinds of renowned birds chirping and flying over the lake and trees.
Location: Jetwing Lagoon Resort, Pamunugama Rd, Negombo 11504, Sri Lanka
Timing: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
9. Canoeing: Canoeing is one of Colombo's most popular water pastimes. Colombo is home to a diverse range of birds and butterflies, as well as a beautiful scenic scenery with rivers, lakes, and mangrove forests, ideal for canoeing.
In Sri Lanka, canoeing begins at a watersports camp 15 minutes from Negombo Beach. The best paddling is done on a dead arm of the Ging Oya River, which is an excellent resource for exploring the area on your own with a canoe.
Location: 151/1B Dudley Senanayake Mawatha, Colombo 00800, Sri Lanka
Timing: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM -
Which are the best beaches for watersports in Colombo?
1. Dutch Bay/Kalpitiya Beaches: It's a deserted beach north of Negombo with beautiful biodiversity and undeveloped beaches. In the winter, it's ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and whale viewing. In the summer, it's a popular kite-surfing site.
2. Unawatuna/Weligama Beaches: This beautiful beach is located on Galle's southern shore and has a large expanse of land. Although it is now a renowned party beach, its coral reef still offers a variety of water sports such as snorkelling and scuba diving.
3. Nilaveli Beaches: On the Eastern Coast, Naveli Beach is near Uppuveli Beach, close to Trincomalee. This beach features white sand beaches and shallow water, allowing visitors to swim all day. A few minutes away is Pigeon Island, which boasts the best scuba diving facilities.
4. Bentota Beach: Bentota is a well-known west coast beach with a diverse market and lodging options. It is Sri Lanka's most popular water sports destination. This location offers boat tours and is ideal for kayaking and jet skiing. -
What is the best time for scuba diving in Colombo?
The best time for scuba diving in Colombo is from the summer season of May till July. This time offers humid climate and warm days, without occasional rain showers which are perfect for scuba diving sessions.
-
What is the approx price for Kayaking in Colombo?
The average price of kayaking is from Rs 1000 to Rs 2000 depending on the package the travellers choose. Prices can vary depending on the location, and difficulty levels.
-
Is there any age limit for rafting in Colombo?
The age limit in Colombo is 8 years. Below 8 years old are strictly prohibited from participating in this extreme sport. Children should be under strict vigilance of parents or supervisors.
-
What to wear for watersports in Colombo?
Wetsuits are the best things to wear for water sports. Go for clothing that allows maximum body movement which are required during the water sport. Waterproof shoes and towels are other essentials needed during the activities.
-
What are the important things to keep in mind while going for rafting in Colombo?
- Go for a license and certification as a rafting trainer. Rafting can be an extreme sport and therefore utmost security is required.
- Make sure your equipment is working properly. Lifejackets and head gears should be worn at all costs.
- Stick to the instructions - This extreme sport requires both physical and mental focus and any deviation can be hazardous. Visitors need to ensure maximum safety and thus sticking to the instructions of the guide is essential.
- Wear proper clothing - Wetsuits are the most preferable choice as they allow maximum movement. Carry waterproof shoes and towels for a more comfortable ride.
- Beginners can take a lesson before going for more difficult tasks. -
Is there any age limit for scuba diving in Colombo?
The minimum age limit for scuba diving is 8 years old and above. Kids require parental supervision at all times. Physical and mental wellbeing are required at all times. All instructions should be followed at all times before engaging in this extreme water sport.
-
What is the average cost for jet skiing in Colombo?
Jet skiing in Colombo starts at 3000 rupees per person. There are a number of packages available some also offer trainer supervision.