Old Town Hall Building and Museum

This is a hidden gem that any history buff would truly appreciate. Piyal The caretaker was super friendly and very knowledgeable. He took us around and explained about the history of the building and about the artefacts inside the building. Definitely worth a visit.

Would never have known this place existed if it weren’t for the guide.

Visited in Jan 2024. Great place to experience a little bit of history. I went through a tour site so I think my entrance fees was already paid. A beautiful, old place to visit and experience the colonial era artefacts, architecture, etc. Great vibe. A great meeting took place here in 1906, you can read up about it here. You should also visit the New Town Hall to compare both places if you have the time, not sure if visitors are allowed there. Signed my name on the visitors book here & gave a boring lecture to an empty class 😂

Very old building. Busy environment and there is a very clean public toilet behind this building.

The Old Town Hall building is a historic landmark located in Pettah, Colombo, Sri Lanka. Built in 1873, the building served as the city's first town hall and was an important hub of civic activity during the colonial era. The building is a fine example of British colonial architecture and features a distinctive clock tower and a large central hall. The exterior of the building is adorned with intricate carvings and decorative elements, while the interior is decorated with ornate plasterwork and features a grand staircase and large chandeliers. Today, the Old Town Hall building serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the history and heritage of Colombo and Sri Lanka. The museum features a range of exhibits, including photographs, paintings, and artifacts that offer a glimpse into the city's past and its cultural traditions. Visitors to the Old Town Hall building can also take guided tours of the historic landmark, which provide insights into the building's architectural and historical significance. The tours include visits to the central hall, the clock tower, and other notable features of the building, as well as information about the various events and civic activities that took place there in the past. In addition to its cultural and historical significance, the Old Town Hall building is also a popular destination for photography enthusiasts and travelers looking to experience the charm and beauty of Colombo's colonial-era architecture. Its location in the bustling Pettah market district also makes it a convenient stop for visitors looking to explore the city's vibrant street life and local culture.

I was lucky to see this hidden place in Colombo. The building was used as the municipal headquarters for over 50 years, until 1924. There is much to see at the Old Town Hall; some quite interesting and unique, some not so much, and some downright strange. Whatever the case may be, this monument is definitely worth having a visit while in Colombo. Make sure to visit the adjoining museum. It has a number of different artifacts; including ancient machinery, old metal street signs mounted on an equally old wooden post, antique boilers and timers, old light holders, an old mobile library vehicle, and a a giant lightbulb that lit the entire square outside the Old Town Hall.

The Colombo Old Town Hall Building, built in 1873 by the British, is an architectural gem that offers a glimpse into the city’s colonial past. It was originally serving as the municipal headquarters, this building now houses a small but fascinating museum. If you’re a history or archaeology enthusiast, this place is a must-visit. The exhibits provide a deep dive into the region’s rich heritage, showcasing artifacts and historical details that make you appreciate the city’s evolution. Whether you’re into architecture, history, or just want to explore something off the beaten path, this spot is definitely worth a visit!

This is a Ancient building like gothic-type Dutch building at the end of Main Street in Pettah approx to the "Gaspaha" Junction. Inside of its a creepy look museum and life-size dummy s sitting around a wooden table in different postures. There is no entrance fee and you just walk inside and ask somebody near the main staircase if you can check out the building.

Merita un giorno intero di visita

I was shocked see this quite place surrounded by busy vicinity. Good for history lovers see many ancient monuments. Gas powered large street lights, mayor’s red dress, ash colored mobile library, gas engine truck, massive gal-roller used in road construction, spearheaded road signs, septic waste removal cart, & many more. Salute to Colombo Town Council efforts for prevention. Now part of building converted to a fire station(brigade) having some modern fire engines parked at the entrance. Have a look 👦

Visited mid August 2025 Price was free, I am sure donations would be welcome We were walking aimlessly around Petta area observing and enjoying the hustle and bustle of the area (worth a visit in itself) and came across this hidden gem of a place quite by accident. I won't repeat some of the eloquently written comments describing the Old Town Hall perfectly - please do road them. For me I was able to transpose to the colonial time and understand how the Portuguese, Dutch, and the British evolved Colombo of today. Whilst a little tender loving care is need - conservation and repair of the building and may be better tables description - I wouldn't want it changed. Staff were informative and friendly and take pride in their work. This hidden gem is a place to spend some time visitig

Old Town Hall & reception hall and Museum is a beautiful historic place in Pettah. The Old Town Hall was built by the British in Neo-Gothic style. It was used until 1924 and still looks amazing. A great spot for history lovers. The building is full of charm and stories from the past. Definitely worth a visit.

Určitě stojí za to zajít dovnitř.

Très vieille bâtisse qui sert de caserne de pompiers.

Todella kaunis täynnä ihania pieniä putiikkeja.

Visited this recent to show kids this historic building and the museum housed within it. The large hall inside the main building is today divided into small cubicle like shops selling retail and wholesale stuff. The left side building houses a interesting museum with a collection of very old vehicles and machinery. Learned later theres more museum artifacts for viewing in the top floor of the building. Sadly didnt know when I visited. Sad to see this wonderful building in a dilapidated state. Like others reviews say, this could be converted into something significant for tourism while preserving its history and importance. Even just a coat of paint will give this building a majestic look. There's no indication outside to the public of what this building is or a advisment that indicates there's a museum with free access within it. Even in its present neclected state, its well worth a visit for its history, architecture and museum artifacts.

We just walked past this building.

Old Town Hall Building is one of another old building which has great architect design.

Historical place.. good to visit

Don't just walk by this building, there is a small old museum inside and upstairs. Worth checking out, very run-down but extremely charming.