Museums

Located in Colombo’s historic Pettah district, the Dutch Period Museum is housed in a beautifully restored 17th-century Dutch colonial mansion that once served as the residence of a Dutch governor. The museum offers a vivid glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past with its engaging displays of period artifacts—ranging from original furniture and ceramics to coins and weaponry. Visitors can step back in time to explore how Dutch colonialism influenced local culture, trade, and daily life during the 17th to 18th centuries.

The National Postal Museum, located at Colombo’s Postal Headquarters, showcases Sri Lanka’s evolving postal heritage. Through exhibits featuring rare stamps, antique mail equipment, and historical artifacts, it offers a captivating glimpse into the country’s communication history—from colonial-era telegraphy to modern postal operations.

The National Museum of Natural History in Colombo, established in 1986, is Sri Lanka’s sole museum dedicated solely to its natural heritage. It showcases an engaging collection of endemic flora and fauna, fossils, and geological specimens, offering visitors a unique journey through the island’s rich biodiversity and evolutionary history.

The National Art Gallery Museum in Colombo is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Housed in a historic building, the museum displays a diverse collection of traditional and contemporary artworks that capture the nation’s evolving artistic legacy.

The Currency Museum, part of the Economic History Museum of Sri Lanka, is housed in a historic Colombo building and curated by the Central Bank. It presents an engaging timeline of Sri Lanka’s monetary evolution—from ancient coinage dating back to the 3rd century BC to modern currency notes and coins. Interactive displays and informative exhibits illuminate how money has shaped and reflected the nation’s economic journey.