3 hour cooking experience

A 3-Hour Culinary Journey into Sri Lanka’s Flavors in Colombo

If you’re craving an authentic taste of Sri Lankan cuisine and want to learn how to recreate it yourself, this 3-hour cooking experience in Colombo might just be your ticket. Led by the warm and enthusiastic Chef Mohara Dole, this class offers a hands-on dive into the island’s traditional dishes—from hearty curries to vibrant sambols—all set in a friendly, personal setting. For $120 per person, you gain not just a meal, but a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s culinary culture.

What we love about this experience is how it combines culinary education with cultural insight. First, you get to make a variety of curries, including flavorsome options with lufah, eggplant, lotus root, seafood, and more—each with their own unique spices and techniques. Second, the provision of recipes at the end means you can bring a piece of Sri Lanka home with you, recreating these dishes whenever you like. One possible consideration? Since the tour is about 3 hours, it’s a solid commitment for a single afternoon, but the payoff is well worth it if you love cooking and authentic flavors. This experience best suits those who enjoy interactive learning, culture, and delicious, homemade food—especially food lovers eager to understand what makes Sri Lankan cuisine so special.

Key Points

• Authentic recipes: Learn to cook and take home recipes for traditional Sri Lankan curries, rice, and sambols.
• Personal insight: Chef Mohara shares her knowledge and cultural perspective, adding depth to your culinary skills.
• Hands-on experience: Join the chef at the stove and actively participate in preparing the dishes.
• All ingredients provided: No need to worry about shopping or sourcing—everything is included.
• Family-friendly and private: Only your group participates, creating an intimate and tailored experience.
• Excellent reviews: Consistently high ratings reflect genuine satisfaction from past participants.

Exploring Colombo’s 3-Hour Cooking Class in Detail

Location and Meeting Point

The tour begins at 49 Park Ln, Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte, a central hub easily reachable by public transportation. The simplicity of the meeting point is a plus, especially for travelers unfamiliar with Colombo’s layout. The class runs Monday through Sunday, from 10:30AM to 2:00PM, giving plenty of flexibility for planning your day. You are assured of a private experience, meaning only your group will participate, allowing for personalized attention and interaction with Chef Mohara.

Duration and Structure

Spanning approximately 3 hours, this experience is designed to be a cultural and culinary adventure. It balances demonstration with active participation, so you’re not just watching—you’re doing. We found that the time flies, thanks to the warm atmosphere and the engaging style of Chef Mohara. The class ends at the same spot where it begins, so no additional transportation is needed.

What You’ll Learn

During the session, you will explore a variety of dishes, including different types of curries—like those with loofah, eggplant, lotus root, chicken, seafood, and beetroot—and the varieties of rice such as basmati, red raw rice, and samba rice. Chef Mohara also introduces sambols, which are vibrant, spicy condiments essential to Sri Lankan cuisine.

The focus is on technique and flavor, with Chef Mohara sharing her personal tips along the way. As one delighted participant put it, she “graciously welcomed us into her home and cooking studio” and made the entire process “infectious with her enthusiasm.” You’ll be actively involved in every step—chopping, stirring, and seasoning—getting a true hands-on feel for Sri Lankan cooking.

The Meal and Recipes

Once the dishes are prepared, everyone sits down together for a shared meal. The experience isn’t just about cooking; it’s about savoring the fruits of your labor and gaining insights into the island’s culinary traditions. You’ll receive recipes so you can recreate your favorite dishes back home, an especially valuable takeaway for those who love to cook or want to impress friends with authentic Sri Lankan flavors.

What’s Included

• All ingredients needed for the dishes
• Bottled water and soda
• A chance to ask questions and learn in a relaxed environment

Not Included

• Alcoholic beverages are not part of the package, but you might find local options to complement your meal after the class.

Authenticity and Cultural Connection

This isn’t just a cooking class; it’s a cultural insight into Sri Lanka’s food traditions. Chef Mohara shares her personal experiences and stories, providing context that elevates the process from mere cooking to a cultural celebration. As one reviewer noted, her “enthusiasm for sharing her knowledge and tips was infectious”—a testament to the genuine warmth you’ll experience.

What the Reviews Say

The consistent 5-star ratings reflect how much participants enjoy this class. Kate W. described it as a “hands-on experience” that was both informative and fun, emphasizing the delicious dishes they prepared. She also appreciated the personal touch, feeling welcomed into Mohara’s home and being able to re-create the dishes later.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Since the tour operates daily, planning ahead is wise—most bookings are made about 54 days in advance.
• Arrive a bit early to settle in and get comfortable with the setting.
• If you’re traveling as a group or with family, this private tour offers a cozy, tailored experience.
• Remember, alcoholic beverages are not included, so bring your own if you’d like to enjoy a local beer or wine afterward.
• The class is suitable for all skill levels, from complete beginners to seasoned home chefs.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This class is perfect for foodies who enjoy interactive learning and want a taste of Sri Lanka’s culinary soul. It’s equally suited for travelers eager to go beyond sightseeing and connect through cooking. If you love delicious food, authentic experiences, and personalized attention, this is a memorable way to spend part of your Colombo trip.

The Sum Up

In essence, this 3-hour cooking experience offers more than just a meal. It’s a chance to learn, taste, and understand Sri Lanka through its food. The personal attention from Chef Mohara and the focus on traditional dishes make it stand out among culinary tours. Whether you’re a dedicated home cook or simply curious about Sri Lankan flavors, you’ll walk away with new skills, recipes, and a deeper appreciation for the island’s vibrant food scene.

For those who want the authentic touch and personal connection, this class is an excellent choice. It’s a value-packed experience that combines cultural insight with hands-on fun—a memorable addition to any Colombo itinerary.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. The class is designed to be accessible, offering step-by-step guidance regardless of your cooking experience.

What dishes will I learn to make?
You’ll focus on traditional Sri Lankan curries, rice varieties, and sambols, with specific ingredients like loofah, eggplant, lotus root, seafood, and beetroot.

Are ingredients included?
Yes, all necessary ingredients are provided, so you don’t need to worry about shopping or sourcing.

Can I get the recipes to take home?
Yes, participants receive recipe cards to recreate the dishes back home.

What is the group size?
Since it’s a private tour, only your group participates, ensuring a personalized experience.

Is there an age limit?
The information doesn’t specify, but generally, such classes are suitable for adults and older children comfortable with cooking.

How long does the class last?
About 3 hours, from start to finish.

What’s the best time to book?
Booking about 1-2 months in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Are drinks included?
Bottled water and soda are included, but alcoholic beverages are not.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothes suitable for kitchen activities.

This Sri Lankan cooking class isn’t just about making food—it’s about making memories, understanding a culture through its flavors, and walking away with skills you can use for years. For anyone with a passion for authentic cuisine, this experience is a tasty, enriching chapter of your Colombo adventure.