Galle Day Tour From Kalutara / Wadduwa (All Inclusive)
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Galle Day Tour From Kalutara / Wadduwa (All Inclusive)

Active
8h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Galle day tour mainly covers Galle Dutch fort, Madhu river and turtles conservation centre in Balapitiya.

Galle is a city on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is famous for the Galle Dutch Fort plus breathtaking beaches along its coastline. Galle Dutch Fort is one of the most visited tourist attractions in Sri Lanka.

Madu River is located in the south of Sri Lanka near Galle. The water of the river is dotted with small islands and the banks are all covered with lush mangrove forests that are home to dozens of incredible animal species.

South coast is also important nesting grounds for sea turtles. A number of sea turtle conservation centres operate along the beach to ensure the safety of sea turtle nests. Altogether, five sea turtles nest in Sri Lankan beaches.

Available options

Pick up from Kalutara/ Wadduwa

Pick up and drop off will be provided from most closely located hotels in Kalutara or Wadduwa.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

All Government Taxes.
Cost of Madu River Boat Safari.
500ml mineral water bottle per person during the tour.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Air conditioned vehicle with English speaking driver.
Hotel pick up and drop off to most closely located hotels in Kalutara or Wadduwa.
Entrance fees to Galle Fort and Turtle Hatchery.

Detailed itinerary

1
Stop 1

The Galle Dutch Fort is a seventeenth-century colonial fort in Sri Lanka. It stands on a rocky promontory facing the Indian Ocean. Rocky shores and an imposing landside rampart defend it on all four directions. It was the Portuguese who chose Galle as a permanent trading post in 1588. Following the siege of Galle (1640), the Dutch ousted them from Southern Sri Lanka. Then the Dutch extensively fortified the fort until 1729. Its present form was mainly conceived under Dutch company rule and hence the name Galle Dutch fort. In its heyday, the fortification also served as the island’s southern commandment of the Dutch East India trading company (VOC). Its sister cities were Colombo, Trincomalee, and Jaffna. The fort defended the main VOC trading port in Sri Lanka. In 1796, it was peacefully handed over to the British who maintained a military presence until 1948.

Many of Galle fort’s European inhabitants left it, following the 1972 constitution, which completed the transitional phase of Sri Lanka into a republic. Thereon, the structure became dilapidated until renovations started after the 2004 tsunami followed by the end of the war in 2009. Today, the Galle Dutch Fort is the most well preserved colonial fort in South Asia. Most of its main features are miraculously preserved. A rare Portuguese fortalice and thirteen Dutch bastions dot the original ramparts, each with a different story belonging to a different time. Its exotic blend of European and Asian architecture attracts many local and foreign visitors. Artists, photographers, writers, and architects own many restored colonial buildings inside the fort. Trendy cafes, boutique shops, and hotels add a unique character to the atmosphere of the fort’s colonial streets. However, the real energy of Galle fort comes from its active colonial court complexes, government offices, public schools, trading companies, and beautiful churches, harking back to a thriving European colony.

2

The water of the river is dotted with small islands and the banks are all covered with lush mangrove forests that are home to dozens of incredible animal species. Enjoy hundreds of vibrant tropical birds and a few crocodiles if you’re lucky enough.

3
Stop 3

Here, you will learn about how these people protect sea turtle eggs and increase hatching rates. Start from protecting the mother turtle during the nesting process and when she is finished laying the eggs and safely back in the ocean, then relocate the eggs from the beach to there hatchery. When the baby sea turtles hatch and then return them to their natural habitat quickly.

What's not included

Gratuities.
Anything not mentioned in inclusions.

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Please be ready at the hotel lobby 15 minutes before the pick up time.
Please come with a comfortable attire for the tour.

Meeting point

Pick up and drop off will be provided from most closely located hotels in Kalutara or Wadduwa.

About Kalutara

Kalutara is a picturesque coastal city in Sri Lanka known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and lush greenery. It offers a blend of cultural heritage and natural beauty, making it a popular destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and exploration.

Top Attractions

Richmond Castle

A historic mansion built in the early 20th century, showcasing colonial architecture and lush gardens.

Historical 1-2 hours Moderate

Kalutara Bodhiya

A sacred Bo tree believed to be a sapling from the original Bodhi tree in India where Buddha attained enlightenment.

Religious 30 minutes to 1 hour Free

Kalutara Beach

A beautiful beach with golden sand, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Beach Half-day to full day Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked on a hot griddle.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or with meat

Hoppers

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with eggs, sambal, or curry.

Breakfast Vegetarian

String Hoppers

Noodle-like strings made from rice flour, served with curries and sambal.

Lunch Vegetarian

Popular Activities

Surfing Snorkeling Beach lounging Spa treatments Visiting temples Exploring historic sites Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

January to April

This period offers the best weather with minimal rainfall and warm temperatures, ideal for beach activities and sightseeing.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Kalutara is generally safe for travelers, but standard precautions should be taken to avoid petty theft and scams.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable taxi services.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help.
  • • Keep valuables secure.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranayake International Airport • 60 km
By train

Kalutara Railway Station

By bus

Kalutara Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Kalutara. They connect major attractions and neighborhoods.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Kalutara Town Beach Road

Day trips

Aluthgama
15 km • Half day

A nearby town known for its historic sites and beautiful landscapes.

Beruwala
20 km • Full day

A coastal town with beautiful beaches and water sports activities.

Festivals

Kalutara Bodhiya Festival • February

Pro tips

  • Visit Richmond Castle early in the morning to avoid crowds.
  • Try local street food for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Use local buses for an affordable and scenic way to get around.
  • Carry a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated and reduce plastic waste.
  • Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interaction with locals.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 12-99
1
Childs
Age 5-11
0
Infants
Age 0-4
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 9
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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