Colombo National Museum
Colombo, Western
Founded in 1877 under British Governor William Henry Gregory, the Colombo National Museum is the largest museum in Sri Lanka and holds the country's most complete collection of its history in one place — including the regalia of the last Kandyan kings, ancient stone inscriptions, and a library of ola-leaf manuscripts. The Italian-style colonial building itself, with its wide verandas and grand staircase, is worth seeing regardless of what's inside. It's a useful stop for context before visiting sites like Kandy or the ancient cities, since many of the objects here explain what you'll see elsewhere.
Best time to visit
Weekday mornings, when the galleries are quietest and the heat outside hasn't built up yet.
Visitor tip
Allow time for the main galleries and check current opening arrangements before visiting.
Local pick
The Kandyan royal regalia room is easy to walk past quickly, but includes the actual crown and throne once used by Sri Lanka's last king.
Quick answers
Where is Colombo National Museum?
Colombo National Museum is in Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka.
When is the best time to visit Colombo National Museum?
Weekday mornings, when the galleries are quietest and the heat outside hasn't built up yet.
How far is Colombo National Museum from Colombo?
About 2 km in a straight line. Road journeys are longer, so check current travel times before you go.
What is near Colombo National Museum?
Nearby places include Arcade Independence Square (about 1 km away), Independence Memorial Hall (about 1 km away), Gangaramaya Temple (about 1 km away), Seema Malaka (about 1 km away).
Add to my itineraryNearby places
- Arcade Independence SquareColombo
- Independence Memorial HallColombo
- Gangaramaya TempleColombo
- Seema MalakaColombo
More places in Western Province
More to see around Colombo: things to do in Colombo. Planning a trip? See the top attractions in Sri Lanka, the best time to visit and how many days you need.