Negombo , Sri Lanka

Private day tour to Galle from Negombo

Active

10h - 12h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Enjoy a private day tour to Galle from your hotel in Negombo or Katunayake and visit the UNESCO listed world heritage site Galle Dutch Fort in southern region in Sri Lanka. Additionally visit Kosgoda sea turtle conservation project , Mask museum, Tsunami museum and enjoy a boat ride in Madu river.

Available options

Private day tour to Galle from Negombo

Pickup included

What's included

1 liter bottled water

Bottled water

Service of a chauffeur guide.

Fuel surcharge

Hotel Pick-up and drop-off by an air-conditioned vehicle.

Detailed itinerary

You will be picked up from your hotel in Negombo or Katunayake by our chauffeur guide at 06:30 a.m. and commence the day tour to Galle.

Stop 2

First you will be taken to Sea Turtle Conservation Project in Kosgoda. You will be able to see how Sea turtles are being conserved and inspect their activities. Further you will see the hatchery program which was being implemented to hatch eggs safely before release in to the sea.

Next you will be stopped at Balapitiya and proceed to Madu Ganga river boat safari. Madu Ganga river flows among marshlands which covered by mangrove forests. You will see mostly wild boars, monkeys and squirrels out of variety of animals available. As well as birds such as cormorants and kingfishers can be seen mostly among more than 100 species.

After the boat safari visit the Mask Museum at Ambalangoda.This museum gives you better knowledge about Sri Lankan traditional masks and the meaning behind them.

Your next visit will be Tsunami photo museum at Hikkaduwa. There are photos and some memories of the Tsunami victim in 2004.

Thereafter you will be directly transferred to Galle and stop at a local restaurant for Lunch. (Your expense)

Stop 6

Thereafter proceed to Galle Fort Sightseeing. It was first built by Portuguese and it again fortified by Dutch when Sri Lanka was a Colonial under them. It was built on a rocky peninsula and three sides’ area covered by sea. Just after the entrance you can see the front wall and a clock tower on top that. When you are there you can nicely see the Galle international Cricket stadium.

When move to the southernmost end you can see the Flag Rock which was used as a bastion by Portuguese. Currently it has become more attractive for tourist due to some locals leap to the water from the rock with the intention of earn some money from the foreigners.
Next you will be met the Lighthouse located in southern end of the promontory. It was built in 1938 in order to get a full view of any ships entering Galle harbor.

Thereafter you will be met the Maritime Archaeology Museum, Dutch Reformed Church and Galle National Museum.

On completion transfer back to Negombo and safely dropped at your hotel.

What's not included

Entrance fees of museums and boat ride charges.

Lunch or any other meals and drinks (available to purchase)

Video & Camera fees, Permit fees.

Expenses of personal nature such as - Tips for Guides,Drivers, Porters & waiters. -Laundry ,medical bills, telephone calls,personal travel insurance etc.

Available languages

Guide guide

JA EN

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Childe supplement will be added when sharing with parents.

A formal Dress code is required both men and women when entered in to Temples and National Museum. Your knees and shoulders must be fully covered by the dress. No shorts or sleeveless tops are allowed.

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.