Colombo Walking Tour With Mark Forbes

Colombo Walking Tour With Mark Forbes

Colombo’s multi-ethnic Pettah district, with its chaotic markets and crowded streets, may at times seem overwhelming; however, it provides a unique an undiluted insight into the cultural diversity of the developing city. From floating markets to rooftop bars and religious buildings, Wander through the streets of one of Colombo’s busiest places, the Pettah market, a mix of market vendors selling anything from fresh vegetables, meats and seafood to jewelry, clothing and electronic goods. The numerous streets are dedicated to different trades, with one of the most notable being sea street at the end of the open market, specialized in the trading of gold and jewels and mostly administered by migrant Tamil people. With the multitude of labyrinthine side lanes it is hard to take in every angle of Pettah market. The dynamic set-up is a living organism, expanding and adapting to supply and demand.

Itinerary
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Stop At: Pettah, Colombo Sri Lanka

Take a walking tour of the Colombo’s historic Fort district and Pettah, Colombo’s hectic shopping district. Learn about the city’s colonial past and pick up some photography tips, sample some fiery street food! Taking a walking tour is one of the best things to do in Colombo city and Mark, a Colombo native, who has customized walking tours organized by his venture, Colombo City Walks, is the best person to go with. You will be picked up from your ship and drive to the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex in Fort and join Mark in a walk along the old colonial streets, away from your usual tourist spots, and seek out the colonial Dutch mansions and be a part of the history that is now commercial hub of Colombo. Spend the three hours of excitement as Mark shares his vast knowledge and takes you through the streets, alleys, shops, hotels, Churches and colonial buildings of Fort and the hustling Pettah. While on your walk you will find the oldest clock-tower in Asia, see the original colonial era emblem of the HSBC, the old chequered Cargills building, visit the New Chinese shop, snap a picture outside the Pagoda Tea Rooms and enjoy a cup of Ceylon Tea on the balcony of the Grand Oriental Hotel while taking in the sunset views of the Colombo Harbour. You end you walk at the Dutch Hospital precincts. Relax and recap your walk over iced cold beers before being chauffeured back to the port.

Duration: 4 minutes