And as the tourists keep pouring in, there's a scramble for great accommodation that's central to all the major shopping centers, eateries and entertainment venues. So here's a list of the top picks in five star hotels:


The Cinnamon Grand Colombo – Situated along the Galle road with a rear entrance that faces the picturesque Beira lake, this hotel is a favorite among the locals and tourists alike. While Cinnamon Grand is one of the business hotels in Colombo, it is a lovely place to stay while on holiday as well. With great service, comfortable rooms and adjacent to the Crescat Boulevard Shopping Mall, the hotel is quite popular. The restaurants at Cinnamon Grand are also excellent: Noodles is a super Japanese restaurant where it's quite difficult to get into at the last minute, so reservations are a necessity. The Taprobane is also recommended for an out-of-this-world buffet from Sri Lankan rice and curry, Indian, International dishes and an array of yummy desserts and drinks. And a must-try is the Indian restaurant Chutneys for some authentic and tasty dishes.


The Hilton, Colombo – Luxurious and classy, the Hilton will not disappoint. The ambiance is elegant, and the carpeted lobby is homely and serene and looks out over a pond where swans and ducks paddle along gracefully. The hotel is also home to some sought-after restaurants. Spices is the main restaurant and serves lovely international buffets with a range of dishes from around the world. As Hilton Colombo is currently under renovation, you can expect an exquisite upgrade to a more regal and a luxurious property in the near future. The rooms too, are spacious and everything you would want from an opulent hotel.


The Taj Samudra, Colombo – Located facing the beautiful Galle Face Green and the Indian Ocean, The Taj Samudra was recently revamped and is a unique venue for relaxing stays and great events. Tastefully-decorated light and airy rooms provide the best accommodation, while the dining options are spectacular. The newly refurbished Golden Dragon Chinese Restaurant has received some rave reviews, while Navaratne is the Indian restaurant loved by many. There's also the Steak and Grill House for some great dishes meant to please. The hotel is also replete with a super gym, pool, tennis courts and more.


The Kingsbury – One of the more recent five-star hotels, the opulent interiors and seaside views are just gorgeous. Soft-colored décor characterize the rooms and offer every luxury required. A beautiful pool overlooking the Indian Ocean and within sights of the Colombo Port, make for a relaxing swim. The Senses Spa is wonderful for rejuvenation treatments and the Galle Face Green is also within walking distance for a tranquil walk. Try the favorite restaurants at The Kingsbury- The Harbour Court is the place for sumptuous buffets while Yue Chuan serves some great Chinese dishes.


The Galadari Hotel – This hotel has been tried and tested. Known for its lovely High Teas and homely coffee shop, the Galadari Hotel is also situated between The Kingsbury and The Hilton, Colombo, in the hustle and bustle of the city. This is a popular business traveler hotel as it is comfortable and relatively less crowded.


The Galle Face Hotel –The newly refurbished hotel is situated right next to the sea on the Galle road and is just beautiful due to the preservation of the colonial era architecture which has been combined with modernity. Comfortable, full of character and homely, the hotel is frequented by many foreign guests as well as the locals who love the views offered and the sumptuous food and drink that can be enjoyed in a great ambiance.


Await! The Hyatt Regency, Colombo and the Shangri-la luxury hotels will also be opening their doors soon. Here's to some great five-star luxury in Colombo!