Thalangama Wetland Cycling Tour from Colombo

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Thalangama Wetland Cycling Tour from Colombo

Active

3h - 4h

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Sri Lanka is home to numerous birds many of whom are endemic. The wetlands that surround Colombo from the Thalangama Lake to the Baddegana Wetland Park offer a unique opportunity to sight some well loved as well as some rarely seen birds. This tour is designed for the curious nature lover accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide.

Available options

Thalangama Wetland Cycling Tour from Colombo

Pickup included

What's included

Service of an English speaking host.

High quality helmets.

Snacks.

High Quality Bicycles in excellent condition for appropriate height.

A birding book and one or two binoculars to share.

Detailed itinerary

Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka, pulsates with energy and diversity. Its bustling streets intertwine modern skyscrapers with colonial architecture, reflecting a blend of old-world charm and contemporary allure. From the bustling markets of Pettah to the serene lakeside views of Beira Lake, Colombo offers a tapestry of experiences. The city's cultural richness is evident in its museums, galleries, and temples, while its culinary scene tantalizes with a fusion of flavors. Colombo is a dynamic hub that captivates visitors with its eclectic charm.

We will take you on bikes and on a short boat ride in the heart of the city where an unexpected wetland park will give you an opportunity to observe not only birds but also some local wild life to your heart's content.

We will ensure you are taken to the best spots for bird watching, on great quality bikes. You will be provided with binoculars and a renowned bird book to spot and identify the birds and bottled water and a scrumptious breakfast to keep you energized. All you need to bring along is your sense of adventure, a quest for knowledge and your love for birds.

What else you should know

- The cycling is easy to moderate however it gets really warm and sweaty so dress accordingly.
- Rain can greatly affect the chances of spotting birds during the monsoon season, so please check in with us before you book.
- This is a facilitation tour than an expert level tour

Distance : 20 km
Duration : 3.5-4 hrs
Elevation : 250m
Difficulty : 2/5

What's not included

Food and drinks, unless specified.

Hotel pick-up and drop-off.

Expences of personal nature.

Gratuities.

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Specialized infant seats are available

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

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