Maharagama City Guide

Food is mainly local Sri Lankan dishes like rice and curry, kottu roti, and hoppers. Few international options in town, more in Colombo. Vegetarian and vegan options are common. Late-night food is limited to a few small eateries.

Nightlife is very low key with mostly local pubs and restaurants. For more options, head to Colombo.

Coffee culture is developing with local cafes but not extensive.

Tipping is appreciated but not required. Restaurants often include 10% service charge. Tuk-tuks can be rounded up.

SIM cards are sold at the airport and provider stores. Dialog has the best coverage. Passport needed for registration. eSIM options are limited.

Main roads are fairly clean, but markets and side streets can be less tidy.

24/7 services are rare. Some minimarts and pharmacies operate late but not all night.

Big supermarkets like Keells and Cargills Food City stock basics and some international products. Fresh markets sell local produce, meat, and fish. Bargaining is normal at local markets, not in supermarkets.

Card payments work in bigger stores, but cash is needed for markets and smaller shops.

ATMs from Commercial Bank, Sampath Bank, and Bank of Ceylon are common. International withdrawal fees usually apply.

Local schools mostly teach in Sinhala or Tamil. International schools are in Colombo and use English. Admissions follow academic calendars with possible waitlists.

Maharagama has little digital nomad presence. Most activity is in Colombo.

Limited green spaces inside the town. Diyatha Uyana park nearby offers outdoor space.

Running is possible on local roads and parks. Traffic and air quality can be issues.

Several gyms are available locally.

Tennis courts available at sports clubs in Colombo, accessible from Maharagama.

Padel is not common here.

Some local yoga studios. English instructors are more common in Colombo.

Some local dojos teach karate and taekwondo, mostly traditional martial arts.

No skiing in Sri Lanka.

Limited water sports locally. Some kayaking and paddleboarding nearby in Colombo-area lakes.

No surfing nearby. Nearest spots are on the south coast, several hours away.

No diving near Maharagama. Coastal spots are a few hours away.

Private hospitals in Colombo nearby offer good care and English-speaking staff. Local clinics may have less English. Pharmacies are common with OTC meds and advice. Overall quality is average.

Tap water is not safe to drink. Use bottled water or filters.

Public playgrounds and baby supply stores exist. Kid-friendly cafes are mostly in Colombo. Nearby attractions include Bellanwila Temple and Diyatha Uyana park.

LGBTQ+ acceptance is low. Discrimination risks exist due to conservative norms.

Pet-friendly accommodations are limited. Veterinary clinics exist. Few dedicated pet parks.