Galle Private Day Trip from Colombo/ Negambo / Bentota
Active
8h - 9h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Your Tour will cover the highlights of Sri Lanka’s south coast on this day trip from Colombo, Negombo. Walk along the ramparts and cobblestone pathways that crisscross the Dutch Fort of Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Visit a mask factory in the coastal town of Ambalangoda and take a memorable boat safari ride on the Madu River of Balapitiya with Fish Therapy, finishing at a turtle hatchery. You’ll learn about Sri Lankan culture and nature from a knowledgeable guide along the way.
Available options
Pick up from Negambo Hotels
from Negambo<br/>Pickup included
Pick up from Benthota Hotels
from Benthota: Full day tour to southern of SriLanka from Mount Lavinia.Visit Galle Dutch Fort, Ambalangoda Mask factory,Turtle Hatchery<br/>Pickup included
Pick up from Colombo Hotels
from colombo<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Pick up from Negambo,Colombo,Mount lavinia,Benthota,Kalutara Hotels
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
You will be picked up from your hotel in Negombo, Colombo, Mount Lavinia, Kalutara, Bentota, Beruwela,Aluthgama or Galle and then transfer to visit Dutch Fort of Galle. The fort is a historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument, which even after more than 423 years maintains a polished appearance, thanks to extensive reconstruction work done by Archaeological Department of Sri Lanka.
2
Later on you will visit Balapitiya and have lunch at Gangabada Asiriya Restaurant. After lunch, you can discover the unique beauty of Maduganga River on a boat trip. A relatively unspoiled lagoon, the Maduganga estuary is a 915-hectare complex coastal wetland ecosystem that opens to the Indian Ocean.
3
Late afternoon, you will visit a Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda. Here, these almost-extinct turtles are breed and cared for. extinct form Sri Lanka. Visitors can see the new born turtles and even be a part of the process of releasing them in the sea.
4
Stilt fishing is a traditional and ancient method fervently practiced along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This technique is especially popular in areas such as Koggala, Weligama, Dikwella, Galle, and Tangalle, to name a few. In the local Sinhala language, stilt fishing is referred to as 'Ritipanna.' The exact origins of stilt fishing are unknown, but many believe it was introduced by traders who were seen arriving from the sea with mesh bags full of fish. Consequently, this ancestral practice has been handed down through generations.
What's not included
Lunch
Gratuities
Entrance tickets
Boat Safari cost
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Tripadvisor
5.0
20 reviews
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Important information
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
