Colombo Trip Overview
Discover the historic UNESCO-listed Dutch fort and the charming architecture of Galle with our all inclusive day tour with an English speaking driver to guide you along the way. With its beautiful collection of Dutch colonial buildings and rocky coastline, Galle exudes charm and sophistication as well as a unique cultural identity, shaped by centuries of different influences. The main fort area is the centrepiece of this city and has a number of quaint boutiques and cafes lining the beautiful, palm-fringed streets. Engage in a stunning safari experience in Madu river through the lush mangroves and many species of animals around you. Hotel pick up and drop off included.
• Visit a mask museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s culture
• Discover the UNESCO Fort in Galle
• Experience an unforgettable boat safari in Madu river
Additional Info
Duration: 11 to 12 hours
Starts: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Trip Category: Cultural & Theme Tours >> Cultural Tours
Explore Colombo Promoted Experiences
What to Expect When Visiting Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka
Discover the historic UNESCO-listed Dutch fort and the charming architecture of Galle with our all inclusive day tour with an English speaking driver to guide you along the way. With its beautiful collection of Dutch colonial buildings and rocky coastline, Galle exudes charm and sophistication as well as a unique cultural identity, shaped by centuries of different influences. The main fort area is the centrepiece of this city and has a number of quaint boutiques and cafes lining the beautiful, palm-fringed streets. Engage in a stunning safari experience in Madu river through the lush mangroves and many species of animals around you. Hotel pick up and drop off included.
• Visit a mask museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s culture
• Discover the UNESCO Fort in Galle
• Experience an unforgettable boat safari in Madu river
Itinerary
This is a typical itinerary for this product
Stop At: Madu River, Nilwala River Safari, Bridge View, Custom Road, Balapitiya , Sri Lanka 941906362 Call And Contact, Balapitiya 80550 Sri Lanka
Madu River is located in the south of Sri Lanka near Galle. The water of the river is dotted with small islands and the banks are all covered with lush mangrove forests that are home to dozens of incredible animal species. Enjoy hundreds of vibrant tropical birds and a few crocodiles if you’re lucky enough. You will also observe some authentic prawn hunting and the peeling of a real cinnamon tree. While enjoying the safari, you can visit a beautiful temple on the “koth Duwa” island which has a spectacular statue of Buddha standing.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Ariyapala Mask Museum, 426 Main Street, Ambalangoda 80300 Sri Lanka
The Ariyapala Mask Museum in Ambalangoda is an excellent way of learning and understanding mask making that is unique to Sri Lanka. The art of Sri Lankan Masks was existing from time immemorial. Mask carving is a local tradition in the southern coastal region in Sri Lanka. Ambalangoda is well known for traditional masks carvings and masks dancing. The museum has a workshop and library which is specifically designed to introduce the richness of the mask tradition of Ambalangoda.
Duration: 30 minutes
Stop At: Galle Fort, Church Street, Galle 80000 Sri Lanka
The Dutch Fort in Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. Take an exciting walk through this heritage site that boasts of a colourful history. Observe the many sites such as the Old Gate with the British Coat-of-Arms inscribed on it, the Old Dutch Hospital, the ramparts that run around the fortress with its excellent view of the ocean, the clock tower built in 1882, the light house built in 1939,the many bastions – each made for a specific purpose, Dutch colonial style houses with gables and verandahs, the Dutch Reformed Church built in 1640, the New Oriental Hotel, originally built in 1694, the National Maritime Museum and more.
Duration: 2 hours
Stop At: Stilt Fishermen Sri Lanka, Koggala Sri Lanka
Ritipanna is the Sinhalese term for stilt fishing, which is a traditional method for fishing practiced by most fishermen along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. This art is popularly seen in areas such as Ahangama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa and Thalarambe. A narrow pole is tied to a stick that is anchored on the sea bed. Fisher folk climb onto this stick and settle on the pole for a few hours in an effort to catch some fish. Fishermen found on stilts are those who do not have access to sophisticated equipment for fishing. These men can make a living simply with the help of two wooden poles to make a stilt. One pole is nailed onto the sea bed and the other is placed like a cross bar and acts as a plank for the fishermen to sit on. Each stilt can accommodate only one fisherman. For catching fish, they create a rod made of Kithul, and a small plastic bag is tied around their waist to hold the fish that they catch. With one hand they hold onto the stilt and with the other they hold the rod that catches fish. The tradition of stilt fishing will always be practiced by those who cannot afford to invest in modern fishing equipment’s.
Duration: 40 minutes
