Bentota City Tour and Galle from Balapitiya
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Bentota City Tour and Galle from Balapitiya

Active
10h
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 takes you to the most memorable places you've ever seen! Visit the strange and yet beautiful Lunuganga estate, quench your thirst for adventure with a river safari in the Madu Ganga. You will also visit a World Heritage site, a Dutch Fort in Galle which is considered one of the most well-preserved forts in all of Asia. You'll never run out of things to see!

Available options

Bentota City Tour and Galle from Balapitiya

Pickup included

What's included

Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.
Water bottle (per-person).
Service of an English-speaking chauffer guide.
Hotel pickup and drop off from Balapitiya.

Detailed itinerary

1

Balapitiya, nestled along Sri Lanka's southwestern coast, enchants visitors with its serene beaches, lush mangrove forests, and vibrant fishing communities. Known for its scenic boat rides along the Madu River, it offers a glimpse into the island's rich biodiversity and traditional way of life, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

2

The first item in your itinerary will be Bawa’s estate in Lunuganga Sir Geoffrey Bawa, the much renowned lawyer turned architect, made the estate his country home from 1947 till his death in 1998. During his sojourn there he used the place as his experiment lab and made many architectural and interior additions. While visiting the estate you will get to see the beautifully designed gardens that are now open to the public. Some of the buildings of the estate are also now a country house hotel. The tour of the estate approximately takes two hours.

3

Balapitiya is a little southern town lying in marshy wetlands. The area is a high bio diversity zone that relies on the lagoon created by Madu River as it flows into the Indian Ocean. Your safari will take you on a ride down the river. You will get to see the dense mangrove forest that grows along the marshy banks of the river and the forms of wildlife that call the roots home. Your guide will also take you some of the larger free standing islands on Madu River. On one such island you will find an old Buddhist monastery. Cinnamon harvesting is the main employment of the people of this area.

4

Meetiyagoda, located in southern Sri Lanka, is renowned for its unique moonstone mines. These shimmering semi-precious stones, known for their iridescent sheen, are mined here amidst lush greenery. Visitors can witness the traditional methods of extraction and purchase exquisite moonstone jewelry, making it a gem enthusiast's paradise.

5

Galle, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a picturesque city steeped in history and culture. Renowned for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort stands as a testament to its rich past. The city's vibrant streets are adorned with charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes, offering a delightful blend of modernity and tradition. Nestled against the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, Galle boasts stunning beaches and tranquil seaside promenades, perfect for leisurely strolls and sunset views. With its captivating ambiance and historical significance, Galle captivates visitors with its timeless allure.

What's not included

Entrance tickets. (Lunuganga Estate, Madu River Boat Safari)
Food and drinks.
Gratuities (optional).

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby
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 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 5-80
1
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 8
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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