Colombo City Tour And Private Guided
Highlights
- Explore Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
- Visit Independence Square and its history
- Immerse yourself in Colombo National Museum
- Experience the beauty of Kathiresan Kovil
- Discover the contemporary One Galle Face complex
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Duration 9-10 hours
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Private transportation included
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Air-conditioned vehicle
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Bottled water provided
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Wheelchair accessible
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Expert English guide
Experience the vibrant city of Colombo like never before with the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided. Immerse yourself in the rich culture and fascinating history as you explore iconic landmarks such as Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Independence Square, Colombo National Museum, and the Kathiresan Kovil. Marvel at the stunning architecture, intricate sculptures, and beautiful landscapes that make Colombo truly unforgettable. Indulge in some retail therapy at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Hospital Street. As you journey through the city, you'll also catch glimpses of the Old Parliament Building and the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, both architectural wonders that showcase the uniqueness of Colombo. And for a breathtaking view of the city, take a trip to the top of the Lotus Tower, the tallest tower in South Asia. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to explore the heart of Colombo with our expert guides. Book your Colombo City Tour now and embark on an unforgettable adventure.
At a Glance
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Free cancellation
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9 hours
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Instant Confirmation
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Available in English
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Wheelchair accessible
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Mobile voucher
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Private Tour
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Guided
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Family friendly
Featured Reviews
Explore Colombo's vibrant culture on a private guided city tour, visiting historic temples, lush gardens, and bustling shopping precincts for a memorable experience.
Included
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Private transportationPrivate transportation
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Bottled waterBottled water
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In-vehicle air conditioningAir-conditioned vehicle
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Parking feesParking Fees
Excluded
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OtherPersonal expenses
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LunchLunch
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OtherEntrance ticket
Pickup
Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)
What to expect
Gangaramaya is a Buddhist temple with a fusion of modern architecture and a touch of culture. Being a popular landmark of the city, this complex is built on a lake and consists of a temple, a conference hall for Buddhist monks and a vocational training institute.
Independence Memorial Hall in Sri Lanka is mostly popular as a recreational venue for joggers, strolling couples, students from the nearby university and families looking for a refreshing reprieve from the urban environment of Colombo. Independence Memorial Hall is located in the Independence Square at Colombo 7. This place is known as Torrington Square in early days. This Hall was built for the commemoration of the independence from British in 1948. The hall was built at the location where the formal ceremony marking the start of self-rule, with the opening of the first parliament by the HRH Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurring at a special podium February 4, 1948. This Hall is based on the architecture of the Audience Hall( Magul Maduwa) located in Kandy. The column and pillers are decorated with traditional Sri Lankan designs and statues of lions are placed around the building.
The Colombo Museum as it was called at the beginning was established on 1st January 1877. It founder was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time. The Royal Asiatic Society (CB) was instrumental in bringing to the notice of Gregory on his appointment as Governor in 1872 the need for a public museum with much difficulty the approval of the legislative council was obtained within a year. The Architect of the Public Works Department, J.G. Smither was able to prepare the plans for new structure on Italian architectural style. The construction was completed in 1876 and the Museum commenced it functions in the following year.
The Kathiresan kovil or Puthiya (new) Kathiresan kovil is a beautiful one easily recognizable from Galle Road in Bambalapitiya -the temple is dedicated to the war God Skanda or Murugan.Kovils are typically vertical structures heavily adorned with images from Hindu mythology. On the corners of the roof of the Kathiresan kovil you'll find Bhairava the Frightful, a fierce manifestation of Shiva.The men selling garlands at the front gate told us that the temple is likely more than a hundred years old.The kovil has both old and new sections, some parts in bright colours and some in gold paint - it's all very grand and superfluous, but the craftsmanship of the artist behind the sculpted figures is amazing. At the back of the premises to the left are the Kathiresan Hall and further in Manikka Pillaiyar Kalai Rangam, halls where weddings are often carried out.If you go round the back of the temple, you'll also find some cages of love birds and cockatoos and even a pretty peahen.
One Galle Face is a mixed-use complex of buildings currently being built near the Galle Face Green in Colombo, Sri Lanka. It is also Sri Lanka's first internationally and developed and managed mixed use project and was officially opened on 8 November 2019
Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct
Hospital Street where we are located becomes a cozy street every night with lots of activities from Cultural Shows, Jazz Nights, Jam Session Nights, Karaoke Nights, Ladies Nights, Street Food Festival Nights and we have bands playing outside
Travelling past Colombo’s Galle Face Green towards the area known as Fort, a cityscape looms. In the background, silvery skyscrapers and cream-colored buildings dominate. You will notice a building close to the sea whose dimensions are in complete contrast, being several hundred meters long and only three storey’s high. This Neo-Baroque-style building was built during the British colonial era to house the Legislative Council of Ceylon. It was built on an idea of Sir Henry McCallum, which led to a proposal made by a committee to construct the new building for the Secretariat, Council Chamber and Government offices on reclaimed land at the northern end of Galle Face’ were accepted by the Government in 1920. The chief architect of the Public Works Department, A. Woodson was responsible for the design of the building with his initial estimate of Rs 400,000 for the scheme being later revised Rs 450,000, taking into account the extra expenses involved.
Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque
Colombo Red Mosque, also known as Jami Ul-Alfar Masjid, is literally an architectural wonder for the world that would stun you with its unusual color patterns and unconventional yet amazing design. Located in Pettah district, this oldest mosque towers over the buildings and streets in the neighborhood with its tall minarets and had been once a reliable landmark for the sailors coming towards Colombo port. Here both men and women are granted access, but you have to be clad in decent clothes and cover your head and respect the customs. The unconventional red tone has won the name,' red mosque', for this beauty
Colombo Lotus Tower
The Lotus Tower also referred to as Colombo Lotus Tower, is a tower of 350 m (1,150 ft), located in Colombo, Sri Lanka. Sinhala Name is ' Nelum Kuluna " You can go to the top here and use the elevator. This is the tallest tower in South Asia. When you go to the top, you can see the very impressive city of Colombo.
The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.
Additional Information
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Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
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Public transportation options are available nearby
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Specialized infant seats are available
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Suitable for all physical fitness levels
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Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
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Don't miss the sunset at Galle Face Green.
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Try local street food at the Dutch Hospital.
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Visit Independence Square for a scenic stroll.
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Bring a hat; Colombo can be very sunny.
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Consider visiting the Lotus Tower for views.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Indulge in a mesmerizing journey through the vibrant city of Colombo with the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience! This unique tour offers a fascinating exploration of Sri Lanka's commercial capital, where vibrant colors, rich culture, and a bustling atmosphere await your arrival. Immerse yourself in the energy and charm of this city as you uncover its hidden gems, historical landmarks, and modern marvels.What to expect?
Embark on a 540 to 600 minute adventure that will immerse you in the essence of Colombo. Visit the renowned Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple, a magnificent fusion of modern architecture and cultural heritage. Marvel at its serene atmosphere and learn about Buddhism's profound influence on Sri Lankan society. Delve into the city's history and witness the grandeur of the Independence Square, a significant landmark symbolizing the country's freedom from British colonization. Continue your journey with a visit to the Colombo National Museum, where you can delve into the rich tapestry of Sri Lanka's history and heritage. Admire the impressive collection of artifacts and gain a deeper understanding of the nation's cultural roots. Explore the iconic Kathiresan Kovil and be captivated by its intricate sculptures and vibrant colors. Conclude your adventure at One Galle Face, a modern complex that harmoniously blends luxury, entertainment, and retail experiences.Who is this for?
The Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience is perfect for anyone seeking a comprehensive exploration of this vibrant city. It caters to those who have an interest in history, culture, and architecture, as well as those looking for a memorable adventure in an urban setting. Regardless of age or background, this tour welcomes individuals, couples, families, and groups who are eager to discover the heart and soul of Colombo.Why book this?
Uncover the allure of Colombo like never before with this exclusive tour. By booking the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience, you gain access to an insider's perspective of the city. Let our knowledgeable guides lead you through a carefully curated itinerary, ensuring you witness the highlights and hidden treasures along the way. Immerse yourself in the local culture, explore historical sites, and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this bustling metropolis. With our expert guidance, you can make the most of your time in Colombo and create memories that will last a lifetime.Good to know
Before embarking on the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience, it's important to note that the total duration of the tour is between 540 to 600 minutes. This allows ample time to explore each attraction thoroughly and soak in the city's vibrant atmosphere. Wear comfortable shoes and clothing to ensure you can navigate the city with ease. Bring a camera to capture the captivating sights and moments throughout your journey. Remember to stay hydrated and carry necessary essentials such as sunscreen and a hat, especially during the warmer months. Our guides are friendly and knowledgeable, ready to assist you and provide valuable insights into the city's history and culture.Reviews
Travelers who have embarked on the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience have raved about its immersive nature and comprehensive exploration of the city. They have praised the expert guidance provided by the knowledgeable guides, who have added a wealth of information and local anecdotes to their journey. Visitors have been captivated by the impressive architecture, cultural significance, and historical heritage of the attractions they visited during the tour. Overall, they have expressed high levels of satisfaction with the experience, grateful for the opportunity to uncover the many layers of Colombo's identity. Plan your own adventure today and discover why the Colombo City Tour and Private Guided experience is a must for any traveler.
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