The Sri Lankan Cabinet has approved a proposal to develop a 7.4-kilometer stretch of Marine Drive from Kollupitiya Railway Station to Dehiwala, under the theme “Marine Nights, Awakening Colombo.” The announcement was made by Cabinet Spokesman and Minister Nalinda Jayatissa during the weekly Cabinet decisions briefing.
The proposal, submitted by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Foreign Employment, and Tourism, aims to transform this coastal stretch into a vibrant hub for both locals and tourists. A key focus will be on a 400-metre segment from the end of Galle Face to S. Thomas’ Preparatory School, which is expected to serve as a highlight of the project.
Minister Nalinda Jayatissa stated that the initiative is designed to stimulate the local economy, boost tourism, and enhance the visitor experience in Colombo, particularly through the promotion of expanded night-time tourism activities. He added that collaboration with local hoteliers and businesses will be actively pursued to ensure the success and sustainability of the project.
Similar night-focused tourism zones have been successfully developed in other parts of South Asia. For instance, Fort Road Food Street in Lahore combines traditional cuisine with vibrant night-time ambiance near a heritage setting, while Thamel in Kathmandu is known for its nightlife, restaurants, and pedestrian-friendly atmosphere. In India, areas like Church Street in Bengaluru and Mumbai’s Marine Drive offer a mix of dining, leisure, and cultural activity well into the night. Do Darya in Karachi, meanwhile, provides a coastal dining experience with restaurants operating late into the evening.
As Sri Lanka continues to gain recognition as a premier global tourist destination, initiatives like this are poised to add significant value to the country’s tourism landscape, further strengthening its appeal and contributing to its long-term development goals in the sector.
More News Related to Tourism
- Ceylon Tea and Tourism: A Timeless Partnership in Sri Lanka
- Agro Harvest Cultivation Pvt Ltd wins award for innovative agro-tourism concept
- Four-lane motorway from Deveta to Galle to boost tourism and businesses
