Private Galle Day Tour from Induruwa or Bentota Hotels
Active
8h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
“Set off on an unforgettable Madu River Safari, where winding waterways take you through lush mangroves, tiny islands, and vibrant wildlife habitats. Watch for monkeys, colorful birds, and water monitors as you drift past fishing villages. A unique adventure blending nature, culture, and relaxation—don’t miss it!”
Available options
Private Galle Day Tour from Induruwa or Bentota Hotels
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Entrance fee
English Guide
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
“Visit the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Bentota, a conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. Learn about their life cycle, see baby turtles ready for release, and discover how local efforts help preserve these gentle creatures for future generations.
2
Experience the beauty of the Madu River on a scenic boat safari. Glide past mangrove forests, small islands, and traditional fishing villages, spotting birds, monkeys, and even water monitors along the way. A perfect mix of nature, wildlife, and culture
3
Moonstone Mine, Meetiyagoda (Ambalangoda)
Just a few kilometers inland from Ambalangoda lies Meetiyagoda, home to Sri Lanka’s famous moonstone mines. Visitors can see how miners carefully dig and wash the soil to uncover these shimmering blue-white gems. A tour offers a glimpse into traditional gem-mining methods, followed by the chance to watch cutting and polishing, and even shop for moonstone jewelry. It’s a unique cultural stop that blends history, craftsmanship, and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s gemstones.
4
Tsunami Photo Museum, Telwatta
Located near Ambalangoda, this small community-run museum preserves the memories of the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Through photographs, survivor stories, and recovered artifacts, it offers a moving glimpse into the tragedy and the resilience of Sri Lanka’s coastal communities.
5
“We’ll stop in Hikkaduwa for lunch, a coastal town known for its golden beaches and lively atmosphere. Enjoy fresh seafood or authentic Sri Lankan dishes served with ocean views, combining local charm with a relaxed, scenic dining experience before continuing the tour.”
6
Stop 6
“We’ll visit the iconic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 16th century. Stroll through its cobbled streets lined with colonial buildings, churches, and boutiques, while enjoying breathtaking views of the ocean and the fort’s historic ramparts.”
What's not included
Personal Expenses
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
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 Hikkaduwa
Hikkaduwa is a vibrant coastal town in Sri Lanka, renowned for its beautiful beaches, surfing spots, and vibrant nightlife. It's a popular destination for both relaxation and adventure, offering a mix of natural beauty and cultural experiences.
Top Attractions
Hikkaduwa Beach
Hikkaduwa Beach is the town's main attraction, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and excellent surfing conditions. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Hikkaduwa Coral Gardens
A protected marine area just off the coast, the Coral Gardens offer a chance to see vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life. It's a popular spot for snorkeling and diving.
Nature
2-3 hours
Moderate (snorkeling/diving tours)
Tsunami Honganji Vihara
This Buddhist temple is a memorial to the victims of the 2004 tsunami. The temple features a large statue of Buddha and offers a peaceful retreat from the bustling beach.
Historical
1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Hikkaduwa Nightlife
Hikkaduwa is known for its vibrant nightlife, with numerous bars, clubs, and beach parties. It's a great place to enjoy live music, dance, and socialize with fellow travelers.
Entertainment
Evening to late night
Moderate to Expensive
Must-Try Local Dishes
Kottu Roti
A popular Sri Lankan dish made with chopped flatbread, vegetables, and meat or seafood, stir-fried with spices.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian or with meat/seafood
Fish Ambul Thiyal
A sour fish curry made with goraka (a type of sour fruit), coconut, and spices. It's a signature dish of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Dinner
Contains fish
Woodapple Juice
A refreshing juice made from the woodapple fruit, often mixed with sugar and water. It's a popular local drink.
Drink
Vegan
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Diving
Jet-skiing
Parasailing
Beach lounging
Yoga
Spa treatments
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the best time to visit Hikkaduwa for beach activities and surfing, as the weather is dry and sunny. The town is lively with many events and festivals.
28°C to 32°C
82°F to 90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Sinhala, Tamil
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas
Currency
Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)
Time Zone
GMT+5:30
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hikkaduwa is generally safe for travelers, but it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions. Petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Use reputable tour operators and guides.
- • Negotiate prices in advance for taxis and tours.
- • Keep valuables secure and be cautious in crowded areas.
Getting there
By air
- Bandaranayake International Airport • 120 km
By train
Hikkaduwa Railway Station
By bus
Hikkaduwa Bus Stand
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Hikkaduwa. They are affordable and frequent, connecting the town to nearby areas.
Taxis
Available • Apps: PickMe
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Beachfront Area
Galle Road Area
Seenimodara
Day trips
Galle
20 km • Half day to full day
Galle is a historic port city with a rich colonial heritage. It's known for its well-preserved Dutch Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its vibrant arts and culture scene.
Unawatuna
15 km • Half day to full day
Unawatuna is a beautiful beach town near Hikkaduwa, known for its golden sands, clear waters, and vibrant nightlife. It's a great spot for swimming, snorkeling, and enjoying the local beach bars.
Bentota
30 km • Full day
Bentota is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, water sports, and luxury resorts. It's a great destination for adventure activities like jet-skiing, parasailing, and river safaris.
Festivals
Hikkaduwa Beach Festival • December (specific dates vary)
Vesak • May (specific dates vary)
Esala Perahera • July or August (specific dates vary)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic phrases in Sinhala or Tamil to enhance your interactions with locals.
- Rent a surfboard or take a lesson from local surf schools to experience Hikkaduwa's famous waves.
- Visit the Hikkaduwa Beach Festival if you're in town during December for a unique cultural experience.
- Explore nearby towns like Galle and Unawatuna for a mix of history, culture, and relaxation.
- Try local street food, but be cautious and choose stalls with high turnover and good hygiene practices.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
