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Views & landmarks

Altair

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Altair

Altair

Altair is a skyscraper complex situated on the shores of Beira Lake in Colombo. It is the second-tallest building in Sri Lanka and is characterized by an inclined east tower that contributes to the city's skyline. Travelers visit this landmark architecture of this scale to observe the structural design and the surrounding urban landscape.

Getting There

The complex is located within the central business district of Colombo. From the city center, it is accessible via a short taxi or ride-sharing trip, typically taking 5 to 15 minutes depending on local traffic conditions.

Time Requirement

Depending on whether you are viewing the architecture from the exterior or visiting the interior facilities, allow 1 to 2 hours for a visit.

When to Visit

Late afternoon and early evening are recommended to see the building against the sunset and the city lights. Like most major landmarks in the capital, the surrounding area can become crowded during peak commuting hours.

Nearby Attractions

Due to its location on Beira Lake, the site can be combined with several nearby points of interest:

  • Seema Malaka (0.2km): A Buddhist temple located on the lake.
  • Gangaramaya Temple (0.4km): A prominent temple known for its eclectic collection.
  • St Michael and All Angels Church, Polwatte (0.7km): A historic church in the Polwatte area.
  • Grand Hyatt Colombo (0.8km): A major hotel and commercial hub.

Updated September 8, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors

Tickets & tours

Admission prices and opening hours change often, so we don't list them here. Check what's on sale and at what price below — booking ahead can cut the queue at some places.

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Stays near Altair

Sorted by distance, walkable ones first. Distances are straight-line.

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Altair Nearby stays

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Itineraries including this place

2 nights, 3 days

Colombo 3-Day Itinerary (2 Nights)

A 3-day route through Colombo grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

3 nights, 4 days

Colombo 4-Day Itinerary (3 Nights)

A 4-day route through Colombo grouped by daily travel distance for optimal sightseeing.

Good to visit alongside

Seema Malaka

Temples & religious sites

Seema Malaka

A Buddhist temple built on Beira Lake, used more as a space for meditation and quiet reflection than for worship. It's connected to Gangaramaya Temple, making the two easy to visit together.

0.2 km away
Gangaramaya Temple

Temples & religious sites

Gangaramaya Temple

A temple on the shore of Beira Lake in Colombo, completed in the late 19th century. It blends modern architecture with traditional culture and is regarded as one of the city's leading temples.

0.4 km away
St Michael and All Angels Church, Polwatte

Temples & religious sites

St Michael and All Angels Church, Polwatte

An Anglican church in the Kollupitiya area of Colombo. It's a pleasant spot for a quiet look around and a feel for the local atmosphere.

0.7 km away
Viharamahadevi Park

Parks & gardens

Viharamahadevi Park

A public park in the heart of Colombo, located next to the National Museum. It's a pleasant spot for a relaxing stroll.

0.9 km away
Lotus Tower

Views & landmarks

Lotus Tower

A landmark tower symbolizing Colombo, Sri Lanka. At 351 meters, it's the tallest self-supporting structure in South Asia and a visible reference point from almost anywhere in the city.

1.0 km away
Postal museum, Colombo

Museums & galleries

Postal museum, Colombo

Sri Lanka's postal museum, located inside Colombo's General Post Office. Visitors can browse postal artifacts and archives with a long history.

1.1 km away