National Museum of Colombo
Western Province
About National Museum of Colombo
The National Museum of Colombo is the island's attic, and a magnificent one: a gleaming white Italianate palace opened in 1877 by Governor William Gregory, set in banyan-shaded grounds in Cinnamon Gardens. Its galleries walk the whole national story - prehistoric Balangoda man, Anuradhapura bronzes (including the celebrated seated Tara), medieval stone inscriptions, ola-leaf manuscripts, demon masks, and colonial-era ivories. The emotional centrepiece sits in the throne room: the gilded lion throne and jewelled crown of the last kings of Kandy, surrendered to the British in 1815 and returned from Windsor decades later - regalia that still carries the weight of a lost kingdom. Give it two unhurried hours with the ceiling fans turning; the museum pairs naturally with Viharamahadevi Park's flame trees next door and Independence Square ten minutes' walk away.
Top Activities
- ✓The Kandyan throne and crown
- ✓Ancient bronzes and stone sculpture
- ✓Mask and manuscript galleries
- ✓Museum grounds and giant banyans
- ✓Combine with Viharamahadevi Park
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips
Weekday mornings dodge the school groups.
Photography rules vary by gallery - check at the entrance.
Budget two hours; the throne room alone deserves fifteen minutes.
Quick Info
Best Time
Year-round; weekday mornings
Weather
Interior visit - perfect for Colombo's hot or rainy hours.
Estimated Daily Budget
6.9105°N, 79.8611°E
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