Airport Layover Colombo day tour, the city of dreams
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Airport Layover Colombo day tour, the city of dreams

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(1 reviews)
4h
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 tour is led by a highly knowledgeable guide, trained in customer service and fluent in English, ensuring clear explanations and a smooth experience throughout. Every stop is carefully planned to maximize sightseeing while keeping the tour relaxed and enjoyable. From historic temples and colonial streets to iconic landmarks and cultural sites, you will experience Colombo in a seamless, informative, and memorable way, with opportunities for photos at every highlight.

Available options

Extend 1 hour

Duration: 1 hour: This rate is to extend the tour duration by one hour. <br/>Extended hours<br/>Pickup included

Airport Layover Colombo half day Tour with guiding

Pickup included

Extend 2 hours

Duration: 2 hours<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation
Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

1

You’ll be guided to visit the iconic Colombo Lotus Tower, Sri Lanka’s tallest structure and a modern landmark of the city. The tower’s striking lotus-shaped design can be admired from the outside, and tickets can be purchased on-site if you wish to go inside (USD 20 per adult). With the ticket, you can visit the 360° observation deck for stunning panoramic views of Colombo and the Indian Ocean, and enjoy a short immersive movie about the history of Colombo at the Pixel Bloom Studio. Photos can be taken to capture this unique experience.

2

You will be escorted to visit the colorful Sri Kaileswaram Temple, one of the oldest Hindu temples in Colombo. Inside, detailed statues, intricate paintings, and traditional Dravidian-style architecture can be observed. Hindu culture and rituals can be witnessed, providing insight into the island’s spiritual traditions. Photos can be taken respectfully while exploring the temple surroundings with a small ticket.

3
Stop 3

You will be taken to visit the famous Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist sites. Beautiful statues, shrines, and museum displays can be admired as the significance of each is explained. Photos can be taken respectfully to capture the temple’s artistic details and spiritual atmosphere. A small entrance ticket has to be purchased the travelers to enter the temple.

4

You will be taken to visit the Independence Memorial Hall, a national monument built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. The grand stone pavilion, surrounded by lion statues and peaceful gardens, can be explored while learning about its historical significance. There is no entrance fee, and photos can be freely taken of the monument and its surroundings.

5

You will be taken to drive along the colonial streets of Colombo, passing historic colonial structures such as the Colombo Clock Tower, Dutch Hospital and the Old Parliament. Iconic buildings and locations including the, the Port City, the Sambodhi Stupa, and the Lighthouse can be observed along the route. Photos can be snapped from the car along the route.

6
Stop 6

A guided visit to visit Galle Face Green and the historic Galle Face Hotel. The hotel can be explored, including its museum, where the heritage and history of this iconic establishment can be learned. A walk along the seafront of Galle Face Green is optional. Photos can be taken at both locations to capture the scenic and historic surroundings.

7

You will be taken on a 20-minute walk through the bustling streets of Pettah Flea Market. Colorful stalls and street food carts can be passed along the way, offering a glimpse of local commerce and flavors. The walk ends at the Red Mosque, which can be visited to observe its architecture and surroundings. Photos can be taken throughout the walk to capture the lively market atmosphere.

What's not included

Lotus tower, Gangaramaya Temple, Sri Kaileswaram temple entrance fees are not included

Available languages

Guide guide
EN

Reviews breakdown

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Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

About Negombo

Negombo is a vibrant coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its beautiful beaches, historic Dutch-era architecture, and the bustling fish market. Often called 'Little Rome' due to its significant Catholic population and churches, it offers a mix of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and lively local life.

Top Attractions

Negombo Beach

Negombo Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand along the Indian Ocean, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. The beach is lined with palm trees and offers stunning sunsets.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Negombo Fish Market

The Negombo Fish Market is one of the largest and most vibrant fish markets in Sri Lanka. It's a bustling hub where fishermen sell their daily catch, and visitors can enjoy fresh seafood.

Market 1-2 hours Free (Food purchases extra)

St. Mary's Church

St. Mary's Church is a historic Catholic church in Negombo, known for its beautiful architecture and religious significance. It's a popular pilgrimage site and a key landmark in the city.

Religious 30-60 minutes Free

Dutch Canal

The Dutch Canal is a historic waterway built by the Dutch during their colonial period. It's a scenic spot for a leisurely walk or boat ride, offering glimpses of local life and nature.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Boat rides extra)

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage

Anguruwankanda Forest Hermitage is a peaceful retreat nestled in a lush forest. It's a great place for meditation, hiking, and experiencing the serenity of nature.

Nature Half day Free (Donations welcome)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kottu Roti

A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped roti flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, cooked with spices and served with gravy.

Dinner Can be made vegetarian or vegan.

Seafood Curry

A flavorful curry made with fresh seafood, coconut milk, and a blend of spices, served with rice.

Dinner Contains seafood and coconut.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast Vegetarian (unless with egg).

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice cooked in meat stock, wrapped in a banana leaf with meat, sambol, and a hard-boiled egg.

Lunch/Dinner Contains meat and fish.

Popular Activities

Water sports Boat safaris Hiking Beach lounging Spa treatments Yoga Visiting temples and churches Exploring local markets

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season with sunny days and minimal rain, making it ideal for beach activities, sightseeing, and outdoor adventures. The city is bustling with tourists during this period.

26-30°C 79-86°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

Negombo is generally a safe destination for travelers. However, standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable taxi services or app-based taxis.
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
  • • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help or services.

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km (22 miles)
By train

Negombo Railway Station

By bus

Negombo Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around Negombo. They connect the city center with beaches, markets, and other attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: PickMe, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Negombo City Center Negombo Beach Lunuwila

Day trips

Colombo
35 km (22 miles) • Half day to full day

Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka, offering a mix of modern and colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and cultural attractions.

Kelani River Safari
40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A scenic boat safari along the Kelani River, offering opportunities to spot wildlife and enjoy the natural beauty of the river and its surroundings.

Muthurajawela Marsh
20 km (12 miles) • Half day

A unique wetland ecosystem located near Negombo, offering opportunities for birdwatching, boat rides, and nature walks.

Festivals

Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies by year) Christmas Celebrations • December 25

Pro tips

  • Visit the Negombo Fish Market early in the morning to see the fresh catch and experience the bustling atmosphere.
  • Take a boat ride along the Dutch Canal to enjoy the scenic views and learn about its history.
  • Try local seafood dishes, particularly grilled fish and prawn curry, for an authentic culinary experience.
  • Explore the historic St. Mary's Church and learn about its significance to the local Catholic community.
  • Relax on Negombo Beach and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.
From $25 per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 8-55
1
Childs
Age 0-7
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 14
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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