Colombo National Museum
The largest museum in Sri Lanka, housed in a grand colonial building, tracing the island's history through royal regalia, ancient bronzes, thrones and colonial-era exhibits.
The National Museum of Natural History is all about Sri Lanka's natural heritage, and it's located right near the National Museum of Colombo. It opened on September 23, 1986, and it's still the only museum in the country focused on natural history.
Inside, you'll find the royal throne of King Wimaladharma, ancient stone Buddha statues, and antique demon masks. It's the country's largest museum, holding over 100,000 items tied to Sri Lanka's history. Visitors must buy an entry ticket, with different prices for local citizens and international tourists. Also, Walk-in visitors are accepted.
The Colombo Museum, as it was originally known, was established on 1 January 1877. It was founded by Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon. The Royal Asiatic Society had pushed for a public museum soon after Gregory's appointment as governor in 1872, and after some difficulty, the legislative council gave its approval within a year. James George Smither, the Government architect of the Public Works Department, drew up the plans for a new building in the Italian architectural style. Construction wrapped up in 1876, and the museum opened its doors the following year. Source - Wikipedia
At a glance
- Entry fee: LKR 1,500+ for foreign visitors
- Opening hours: 9:00am to 5:00pm, closed some public holidays
- Time needed: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Best time: Daytime, out of the heat
Getting there
In Cinnamon Gardens (Colombo 7), near Viharamahadevi Park.
Before you go
- Visit early in your trip if you can. The context it gives makes the ruins and temples elsewhere much richer.
- Do not miss the crown and throne of the Kandyan kings, the museum's signature pieces.
- It closes on some public holidays, so check before making the trip.
- It is a cool, shaded escape from the midday heat, and Viharamahadevi Park is right next door.
Frequently asked questions
- Is the Colombo National Museum worth visiting?
- Yes, especially early in a trip. It is the largest museum in the country and pulls the whole island's history together, from ancient bronzes to the Kandyan royal regalia, which makes everything you see afterwards mean more.
- How much does it cost?
- Foreign entry is around LKR 1,500. Bring cash.
- How long do you need?
- An hour and a half to two hours to take in the main galleries at a comfortable pace.
- When is it open?
- Roughly 9am to 5pm, but it closes on some public holidays, so it is worth checking ahead.