Sri Lanka In Style Hidden History City Walk

Sri Lanka In Style's Hidden History City Walk is the best way to make sense of Colombo's old core on a first visit. The walk is led by a local history enthusiast from the Dutch-Burgher community who speaks all three of the island's languages, and if he is unavailable it is led by his wife or one of his collaborators. It covers Fort and Pettah, two of the city's oldest districts, in a single morning.

The route starts and ends at the Old Dutch Hospital in Fort, a building recorded in 1681 that now houses restaurants and shops. The first stage is a loop through Fort that includes a stop at the currency museum and passes landmarks such as the Central Bank of Sri Lanka, the Old Post Office and the Cargills Building. There is a pause for tea with a view over the harbour before the second stage heads into Pettah.

Pettah is the highlight for many people. The walk threads through the markets, with stops for street snacks, sellers of Bombay sweets and a chance to try falooda. Pettah's name itself comes from the Tamil for a suburb outside a fort, and the district's other landmarks, such as the Red Mosque and the Dutch-era Wolvendaal Church, are close to the market streets if you want to return later.

The walk lasts about two and a half hours, from 9am to 11.30am, and is rated easy. The operator provides a guide, water, snacks and a vehicle. It is not suitable for small children, but a child-focused version can be arranged. Wear cool, light clothing and a cap, and bring a camera. The walk is never scheduled on a poya day, and Sunday is not ideal because the markets are closed, so plan for Monday to Saturday.

Booking goes through Sri Lanka In Style by phone or WhatsApp. Because the walk ends at the Old Dutch Hospital, it is easy to stay on for lunch at Ministry of Crab, which opens at noon, or to walk down to Galle Face Green. The walk is a good first-morning activity, giving you the background to enjoy the rest of the city.