South Coast Highlights Tour from Colombo

Colombo , Sri Lanka

South Coast Highlights Tour from Colombo

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(3 reviews)

11h

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

An independent day trip to Galle from Colombo means a long train, bus, or cab ride, and the problem of getting around once there. Make the most of UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and the round-trip journey on this private day trip. Travel by private vehicle, delve into the colonial-era fort as your guide shares its history, and tour a tea factory on route. hotel pickup and drop-off are included.

Available options

South Coast Highlights Tour from Colombo

Pickup included

What's included

Transport throughout the tour with an air-conditioned vehicle.

Hotel Pick & Drop from Colombo Hotels, Mt. Lavinia Hotels.

Service of an English-Speaking Chauffeur Guide.

1 Liter of Bottled Mineral Water Per Person.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up at your hotel in Colombo at 0700 hrs. Ensure that you bring a packed breakfast with you if you are unable to have your meal at the hotel. You will reach your first destination, Handunugoda Tea Factory by approximately 0930 hrs. (Travel Time 1 ½ to 2 hrs) Handunugoda Factory is famous for its Virgin White Tea, which is one of the most expensive teas in the world. The tea is plucked and made without being touched by humans, partially following an ancient Chinese tea plucking ritual. You will be guided around the factory and given an opportunity to try and buy Virgin White Tea, along with many other tea types. Handunugoda is also one of the only tea factories in Sri Lanka which is close to the coast.

Stop 2

Galle’s natural harbour has long been a hub of trade dating back to ancient times.The accidental arrival of the Portuguese Lorenzo de Almeida in 1505,when his fleet of ships steered off course following a storm at sea,changed the history of this island nation.The Portuguese were followed by the Dutch and then the British in 1796.With each occupation,Galle’s landscape changed and the cultural influences remained.Galle Fort covers nearly four sq. km's and is protected by 12 bastions and connecting ramparts. Wander the maze of narrow cobblestone paved roadways lined with colonial period buildings still in use and old merchant houses where generations of Moorish families still live.Take a walk along the sturdy ramparts looking out to sea and visit colonial period churches,the lighthouse,and museums.Along the way, stop by for a cup of Ceylon Tea or fresh king coconut.

What's not included

Food and Beverages.

Expenses of Personal Nature.

Entrance fees (if any)

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0

3 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We picks you up from your Hotel in Colombo

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