Highlights
- One of the main commercial landmarks of Colombo Fort
- Twin glass towers that rise above the old fort
- Home to many local and international companies
- Each tower has 39 floors of office space
- Opened in 1997 by President Chandrika Bandaranaike Kumaratunga
Overview
The World Trade Centre in Colombo Fort is a pair of 39-storey glass towers, linked by a lower block of shops and offices. Built by Overseas Realty (Ceylon) PLC and completed in the 1990s, the twin towers were long the tallest buildings in Sri Lanka and remain a symbol of the city's business district.
What it is
The towers are mainly office space for banks, companies and government agencies. The lower podium has shops, cafes and services. For visitors, it is mostly a landmark to see from the outside, as office floors are not open to tourists.
History
The towers were damaged in the 1997 Colombo bombing, during the civil war, and later restored. Today, newer buildings such as the Lotus Tower and towers in Port City have changed the skyline.
How long it takes
Just a few minutes as part of a Fort walk.
Getting there
The WTC is in Colombo Fort, near the Bank of Ceylon tower, the old Dutch Hospital and the harbour. Fort station is a short walk away.
Practical tips
- Security is tight; photography rules may apply near government buildings.
- The Old Dutch Hospital nearby has cafes and restaurants.
Explore with our Colombo city tour, or see things to do in Colombo and Colombo hotels.