Highlights
- One of the oldest and largest parks in Colombo
- Updated in 2013 with a small aquarium, play area and bridge
- Local artists show and sell their work along the railings
- Paintings by young artists line a stretch of the roadside
Overview
Viharamahadevi Park is the largest and one of the oldest public parks in Colombo, in the Cinnamon Gardens area opposite the white-domed Town Hall. It was laid out in the British period on land given by the philanthropist Charles Henry de Soysa and was first called Victoria Park, after Queen Victoria. During the Second World War, the British army used it as a base. It reopened to the public after the war and was later renamed after Queen Viharamahadevi, mother of King Dutugemunu.
What you see
- The Buddha statue: a large golden seated Buddha near the Town Hall end.
- Gardens and trees: shady paths under big rain trees, flowering trees and lawns, popular with families and joggers.
- Fountains and ponds, a children's play area and seating.
- Birds and fruit bats: large colonies of fruit bats hang in the trees by day.
Street art
Walls along roads near the park and elsewhere in Colombo have been painted with murals since the 2010s, often showing Sri Lankan landscapes, wildlife, history and daily life. They make an easy walk with the park. Some fade or change over time.
How long it takes
About one hour.
When to go
Early morning or late afternoon, when it is cooler and the park is lively. The park is busy on weekends and holidays.
Getting there
The park is in Cinnamon Gardens (Colombo 7), a short tuk-tuk ride from Kollupitiya or Fort. The National Museum and National Art Gallery are next to it.
Practical tips
- Bring water and a hat for midday walks.
- Watch your step under the bat trees.
Also nearby: Nelum Pokuna and Beira Lake. See things to do in Colombo and Colombo hotels.
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