Colombo Street Food Tour With A Local Guide

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Colombo Street Food Tour With A Local Guide

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About this experience

Immerse yourself in the vibrant tapestry of Colombo's street food culture with this culinary odyssey, commencing at the historic Fort Railway Station, where your guide awaits. Quench your thirst with a refreshing King Coconut near the Dutch Museum, then delve into Pettah's bustling market for a taste of traditional milk tea. Spice up your palate with pickled fruit and cassava chips in the vibrant vicinity of the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque.
Indulge in the savory delights of samosas at Kayman's Gate before exploring exotic fruits at the Old Town Hall market. Your journey continues with a feast of Sri Lankan specialties such as Lamprais or Kottu near All Saints Church, followed by a sampling of diverse banana varieties near the New Kathiresan Temple. Conclude this gastronomic adventure on a sweet note with winter melon candy near the Wolvendaal Church, savoring the diverse flavors that define Colombo's culinary landscape.

Available options

3 Hours Private Food Tour

Duration: 3 hours

3 Hours Small Group Food Tour

Duration: 3 hours

What's included

Food & Drinks Tastings

In-person Spanish, English, French, Italian speaking Guide

Detailed itinerary

Begin your exploration at the Dutch Museum, which showcases the colonial history of Sri Lanka under Dutch rule. Discover artifacts, exhibits, and artifacts that offer insight into the country's rich cultural heritage.

Explore the bustling district of Pettah, known for its vibrant markets, colorful streets, and diverse cultural influences. Wander through narrow alleys and bustling streets as you soak in the sights, sounds, and smells of this vibrant neighborhood.

Visit the iconic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, also known as the Red Mosque, renowned for its striking red and white striped exterior. Learn about the mosque's history, architecture, and cultural significance as you admire its impressive facade.

Discover Kayman's Gate, a historic Dutch bell tower located in the heart of Colombo. Marvel at its architectural beauty and learn about its role in the city's colonial past as you explore the surrounding area.

Conclude your tour at the Old Town Hall, a beautiful colonial-era building that serves as a symbol of Colombo's architectural heritage. Admire its elegant design and learn about its history as you take in the surrounding sights of the city.

What's not included

Tips (Optional)

Transportations

Available languages

Guide guide

EN IT FR ES

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Recommended for everyone

Meeting point

Your guide will be waiting for you at the main entrance of Colombo YMCA wearing a black hat.

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Sinhala, Tamil
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable tour operators and guides
• Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air

Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo

By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy

115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle

120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo

35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat