Coastal Ride to Galle from Balapitiya
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Coastal Ride to Galle from Balapitiya

Active
9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

this one-day tour takes you on a coastal ride of wild adventure and sublime relaxation. Explore the mangrove depths of Madu River. Get that perfect tan on the white sands of Unawatuna. Enjoy walking over cobblestones steeped in history as you view the old city of Galle. See Moonstones Mines in Metiyagoda. Create an unforgettable and wonderful experience on your vacation.

Available options

Coastal Ride to Galle from Balapitiya

Pickup included

What's included

Transport by private air-conditioned vehicle.
Water bottle (per-person).
1-boat safari through Madu river.
Hotel pickup and drop-off from Balapitiya.
Service of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.

Detailed itinerary

1

Balapitiya, nestled along Sri Lanka's southern coast, captivates with its pristine beaches, lush greenery, and tranquil atmosphere. Renowned for its vibrant fishing community and scenic boat rides through mangrove forests along the Madu River, Balapitiya offers a serene escape amidst nature's splendor.

2

Go on a wonderful boat ride down the Madu River with its flourishing ecosystem. Pass through the secretive passages created by the mangroves. See the basking crocodiles and water monitors. Visit one of the small islands with its cinnamon harvesting natives. Enjoy the restorative qualities of the famous fish massage. Observe the waterbirds in their natural habitats.

3

Hear more about the difficulties faced by the miners. Grab the opportunity to purchase some marvellous pieces; though you will need to haggle to get a reasonable price. This tour shows you the traditions of one of the oldest trades in Sri Lankan history - gem mining.

4

Hikkaduwa Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Framed by palm trees swaying in the tropical breeze, the beach offers a picturesque setting for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for snorkeling and diving, revealing a colorful underwater world teeming with marine life and coral reefs. Along the shore, visitors can find bustling beachfront cafes, bars, and markets, creating a lively and welcoming ambiance for travelers from around the globe.

5

The Sea Turtle Hatchery Centre in Mahamodara, Sri Lanka, is a vital sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles. Nestled along the picturesque coast, it serves as a haven for these magnificent creatures, protecting their eggs and nurturing hatchlings until they are ready for release into the ocean. Through education and outreach programs, the center raises awareness about the importance of sea turtle preservation, offering visitors a unique opportunity to witness these ancient marine beings up close.

6

Discover the city of Galle, where the Portuguese and Dutch made their headquarters, and its secrets. Visit the Galle Fort which is one of the best preserved fortifications in Asia. View the Maritime Museum, Galle National Museum and the lighthouse. Walk through the cobblestoned streets with their Dutch names as you learn more about their histories.

What's not included

Entrance tickets.
Food and drinks.
Expenses of personal nature.
Gratuities (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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 5-70
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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