Dutch Footprints Cycling Tour from Colombo

Colombo , Sri Lanka

Dutch Footprints Cycling Tour from Colombo

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About this experience

This tour allows you to view the remains of the Dutch who invaded Sri Lanka as you cycle along the Western coast of Sri Lanka from Colombo to Negombo. Enjoy the Dutch Colonial architecture that pervades the capital, Colombo. Bike along the busy port and through the market of Pettah where thousands of wholesale and retail transactions take place every day. Pedal along the Dutch Canal as you feast your eyes on the colourful birds that make their home in the Muthurajawela Sanctuary. Enjoy a boat safari in the Muthurajawela Lagoon. Cycle through a fishing village to Negombo and see the differences in architecture and culture.

Available options

Dutch Footprints Cycling Tour

LK77010200: Ride your way to Negombo by a cycle.<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Cycling Guide

Bottled water

Back up vehicle

Cycle and Helmets

Boat Ride in Negombo Lagoon.

Detailed itinerary

Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka, entwines colonial charm with modern vitality. Its bustling streets offer a mosaic of cultures, from historic landmarks like the Old Dutch Hospital to contemporary marvels like the Lotus Tower. Colombo's diverse cuisine, bustling markets, and picturesque waterfront create an unforgettable urban experience.

You will be picked up from your hotel and will be brought to the Mattakukuliya Bridge. You will be starting your cycling tour at 0800 hrs at the Bridge. The route will be 60km long and will take approximately 5 hours. You will be provided with the bicycle and necessary equipment such as helmets. You will also have a cycling guide and a backup vehicle which will be able to respond to any emergencies, in case they occur. The cycling route will have regular rest stops with refreshments such as water and energy bars.

You will ride through the countryside along the Dutch Canal and the Western Coastal Belt in Sri Lanka. While you pass through, you will experience the fishermen lifestyle prevailing in Sri Lanka and might also witness the varying fishing techniques used as well as hear the fishing related folk songs as well.

On route, you will visit the Dickowita Fishery Harbour and also a Salt Fishing Village in Negombo.

Afterwards, you will enjoy a Negombo Lagoon Boat Trip and explore the crab and prawn catching methods employed in the lagoon.

Your tour will be completed at 1500 hrs at the Negombo Fishing Village. At the end of your tour, you will be dropped off back at your hotel in Colombo. The cycling route is a soft stretch running through approximately 45km.

What's not included

Food and drinks.

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Public transportation options are available nearby

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

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