Colombo to Galle Day Tour

Dutch Hospital - Shopping Precinct, Hospital Street, Colombo, Sri Lanka
Duration

1 Day

Tour Type

Group Tour

Group Size

Any group size

Languages

English

Experience the Best of Sri Lanka: Colombo to Galle Day Tour

Are you ready to embark on an unforgettable journey from the bustling city of Colombo to the historic town of Galle? Our Colombo to Galle day tour promises an adventure-packed day, starting from the iconic Dutch Hospital in Colombo 01 at 07:00 a.m. Prepare to be mesmerized as we take you on a captivating exploration of some of Sri Lanka’s most fascinating attractions.

This is our group departure: it is booked for groups of 5 or more guests, and the group meets our team at the Dutch Hospital in Colombo 01 at 07:00 a.m. Groups of more than 10 guests are joined by a national guide, as listed under Included. Travelling as a couple or a small family and prefer your own vehicle? See our private Galle day tour from Colombo.

Our first stop takes us to witness the enchanting spectacle of stilt fishermen in Weligama. Watch in awe as these skilled fishermen balance precariously on wooden stilts, casting their lines into the turquoise waters, creating a scene straight out of a postcard.

Next, we’ll head to the breathtaking Jungle Beach, where pristine sands meet crystal-clear waters. Dive into the refreshing waves or simply bask in the sun while soaking in the tranquil ambiance of this hidden gem.

As we head back west along the coast, we arrive at the majestic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and charm. Explore the cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings, vibrant shops, and quaint cafes, and immerse yourself in the rich cultural tapestry of this ancient fortress.

No visit to Galle is complete without a visit to the Gem Museum, where you can marvel at exquisite gems and learn about Sri Lanka’s rich gemstone heritage. Afterward, enjoy a delectable lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring the flavors of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine while taking in panoramic views of the ocean.

Our tour continues with a visit to the Tsunami Museum, a poignant reminder of the devastating impact of the 2004 tsunami on the region. Gain insight into the resilience of the Sri Lankan people as you learn about their recovery efforts and the importance of disaster preparedness.

Next, we’ll explore a Spice Herbal Garden, where you can discover the secrets of traditional Sri Lankan Ayurveda and learn about the medicinal properties of various spices and herbs.

After that we stop at the mask factory in Ambalangoda, where you can see how traditional Sri Lankan masks are carved and painted.

Our last stop is the Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda, where you can witness conservation efforts to protect endangered sea turtle species. Get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures and contribute to their preservation efforts.

As the day draws to a close, we’ll make our way back to Colombo, bidding farewell to the scenic landscapes and unforgettable memories of our Colombo to Galle day tour.

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience the best of Sri Lanka in a single day. Book your Colombo to Galle day tour now and embark on a journey of discovery and adventure unlike any other!

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Highlights

  • Stilt Fishermen in Weligama: Witness the mesmerizing spectacle of fishermen balancing on wooden stilts as they cast their lines into the azure waters.
  • Jungle Beach: Escape to the pristine shores of Jungle Beach, where you can soak up the sun or take a refreshing dip in the crystal-clear waters.
  • Galle Fort: Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander through its cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings and charming cafes.
  • Gem Museum: Discover the beauty of Sri Lanka's gemstone heritage at the Gem Museum, featuring exquisite gems and fascinating insights into the country's gem trade.
  • Lunch at a Beachfront Restaurant: Indulge in a delicious lunch at a beachfront restaurant, savoring authentic Sri Lankan cuisine while enjoying panoramic ocean views.
  • Tsunami Museum: Gain insight into the impact of the 2004 tsunami at the Tsunami Museum, honoring the resilience of the Sri Lankan people and their recovery efforts.
  • Spice Herbal Garden: Explore a Spice Herbal Garden and learn about traditional Sri Lankan Ayurveda, discovering the medicinal properties of spices and herbs.
  • Mask Factory in Ambalangoda: See how traditional Sri Lankan masks are carved and painted.
  • Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda: See sea turtles at the Kosgoda hatchery, which works to protect them.
  • Experience the best of Sri Lanka's culture, history, and natural beauty on our Colombo to Galle day tour. Book now for an unforgettable adventure!

Pickup from Dutch Hospital in Colombo 01 at 07:00 a.m. proceed to Weligama
Pickup from Dutch Hospital in Colombo 01 at 07:00 a.m. proceed to Weligama

The group meets at the Dutch Hospital in Colombo 01 at 07:00 a.m. and drives to Weligama on the south coast. Here local fishermen balance on wooden stilts planted in the seabed and fish with a rod and a simple line, in about waist-high water. The skill is passed down through families, and many fishermen now also pose for photographs with visitors.

Jungle Beach
Jungle Beach

Jungle Beach is a small, quiet beach near Unawatuna, reached by a short walk through the jungle. The water is clear and good for swimming and snorkeling, and snorkeling gear can be rented. There are beach chairs, umbrellas and a small café, and it is usually less crowded than the bigger beaches nearby.

Galle Fort
Galle Fort

Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site on the southern coast. The Portuguese built it in the late 16th century, the Dutch strengthened it in the 17th century, and the British later changed parts of it. Inside the ramparts you can walk the narrow streets, see the lighthouse, the Dutch Reformed Church and the Dutch Hospital complex, and visit boutique shops and cafés.

Gem Museum
Gem Museum

Sri Lanka has mined and traded gems for over 2,500 years, and the blue sapphire is the best known. At the gem museum you can see raw and polished stones and learn how they are mined, cut and polished. The ring Princess Diana wore, later worn by Catherine, Princess of Wales, has a Sri Lankan blue sapphire as its center stone.

Lunch
Lunch

Lunch is at a beach restaurant in Hikkaduwa, on the southwest coast. Typical dishes are fresh seafood and Sri Lankan rice and curry. Drinks are not included, and you can buy them at the restaurant.

Tsunami Museum
Tsunami Museum

The Tsunami Photo Museum in Telwatta shows photographs and belongings from the 2004 tsunami, including remains of the Queen of the Sea train. It also tells the stories of survivors and explains how tsunamis happen and why early warnings matter. The museum is run with the help of local residents and volunteers.

Spice Herbal Garden
Spice Herbal Garden

The spice and herbal garden in Meetiyagoda grows cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg and black pepper, along with herbs such as aloe vera, neem, turmeric and gotu kola. Guides explain how each plant is used in Sri Lankan cooking and in Ayurvedic medicine. There is usually a shop selling spices and herbal products.

Mask Factory
Mask Factory

Ambalangoda is known for its traditional masks, made for the Kolam, Sanni and Raksha dances and rituals. At the mask factory you can see how a mask is carved from light wood, then smoothed and painted. Masks and other handicrafts are for sale.

Turtle Hatchery
Turtle Hatchery

The Victor Hasselblad Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda works to protect sea turtles. Staff collect eggs from the beach, keep them safe until they hatch, and release the hatchlings into the sea. Injured turtles are looked after until they can return to the wild. Guides explain the life cycle of sea turtles, and visitors can often see newly hatched turtles.

Back to Colombo
Back to Colombo

  • A/C Comfortable Vehicle with English speaking Chauffeur
  • Above 10 Pax National Guide
  • Entrance Tickets mentioned in the Itinerary
  • Lunch
  • Drinking water
  • Drinks, Donations and Tips

English

Group Tour

Tour's Location

Dutch Hospital - Shopping Precinct, Hospital Street, Colombo, Sri Lanka

How much does the Colombo to Galle Day Tour cost?

$85 per adult, for 5 or more people. Included: A/C Comfortable Vehicle with English speaking Chauffeur; Above 10 Pax National Guide; Entrance Tickets mentioned in the Itinerary; Lunch; Drinking water. Not included: Drinks, Donations and Tips.

What are the main places included in the Galle Day Tour?

The tour includes the stilt fishermen in Weligama, Jungle Beach, Galle Fort, a gem museum, lunch at a beach restaurant in Hikkaduwa, the Tsunami Photo Museum, a spice garden in Meetiyagoda, the mask factory in Ambalangoda and the turtle hatchery in Kosgoda.

Is this tour suitable for large groups?

Yes, the Galle Day Tour is perfect for groups. We arrange comfortable vans, minibuses, or coaches depending on the group size, ensuring everyone can travel together and enjoy the experience.

How long does the Galle Day Tour take?

The Galle Day Tour from Colombo takes around 10–12 hours, with all the stops in the itinerary.

Do you provide a guide for the group tour?

Yes, we provide professional guides for group tours. We can arrange a National Guide in the language you request, ensuring clear explanations and a better travel experience while exploring places like Galle Fort and other attractions in Galle.

What should we bring for the Galle Day Tour?

We recommend bringing comfortable clothing, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat, and a camera to capture the beautiful coastal scenery and historic sites.

from $85.00

Why book with us?

  • Safe Travel

    Safe Travel

    Safe & Professional Chauffeur Service in Sri Lanka

  • 4.8 on Tripadvisor

    4.8 on Tripadvisor

    From 332 reviews

  • Secure Payment

    Secure Payment

    40% deposit 36 hours before, the rest on the day. Online card payment coming soon

  • Family Business Since 1980

    Family Business Since 1980

    Running private tours in Sri Lanka since 2006

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