Galle and Bentota Day Excursion From Colombo
Balapitiya, LK
Highlights
- Unforgettable river boat safari in Madu Ganga
- Closest tea plantation to the sea
- Historic and architectural Galle Fort
- Famous and beautiful Unawatuna Beach
- Knowledge on colonial history and culture
-
Duration 8-10 hours
-
Private transportation included
-
Air-conditioned vehicle
-
Bottled water provided
-
English-speaking guide
-
Wheelchair accessible
Experience the best of Galle and Bentota on this unforgettable day excursion from Colombo. Immerse yourself in the rich colonial history as you explore the Galle Fort area, with its stunning views and fascinating backstories. Learn about the modern Sri Lankan culture and its connection with the colonial era. But that's not all - embark on a thrilling boat safari on the famous Madu River, where you can marvel at the breathtaking nature and indulge in a fish spa. Visit the Handunugoda Tea Estate, known for its untouched white tea that is said to be the healthiest and most expensive in the world. And finally, unwind at the beautiful Unawatuna Beach, surrounded by golden sand and turquoise water. This day excursion promises a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.
At a Glance
-
Free cancellation
-
8 hours
-
Instant Confirmation
-
Available in English
-
Wheelchair accessible
-
Mobile voucher
-
Private Tour
-
Guided
-
Family friendly
Explore the historic Galle and Bentota on a private day excursion from Colombo, featuring stunning views and cultural insights.
Included
-
Private transportationPrivate transportation -
Bottled waterBottled water
-
In-vehicle air conditioningAir-conditioned vehicle
Excluded
-
LunchLunch
What to expect
Madu River Safari by Buddhi
The famous unforgettable river boat safari in Madu Ganga is GOALS! And yes, don’t miss the fish spa! One of the best excursions that can be done while in Sri Lanka, this Boat Ride will give you the comfort of a lifetime and is bound to keep you dazed and amazed at what Sri Lanka has to offer each and every single nature lover.
60 minutes
Admission Not Included
30 minutes from Galle Fort lies the Handunugoda Tea Estate, perhaps the closest tea plantation in the world to the sea. However, this is not the only thing that makes the Handunugoda Tea Estate special. The estate is known as the Virgin White Tea Factory – it produces a white tea completely untouched by human hands. The process of tea plucking follows an ancient Chinese Ritual where the choicest of teas were cut by virgins who never touched the tea with their bare skin and offered the resulting produce up as a tribute to the Emperor. Handunugoda mimics this tradition, although these days the ‘virgin’ concept only applies to the tea, not the tea pluckers! This white tea is rich in anti-oxidants and is said to be the healthiest tea in the world. Coincidentally it is also one of the most expensive teas in the world fetching at over 1500 USD per kilo. According to the latest testing Virgin White has an anti-oxidant content of 10.11 percent, which is said to be the highest naturally occurring content of anti-oxidants in any beverage. Marriage Freres which is perhaps one of the world’s most exclusive Tea Salons situated at Faubourg Saint Honore in Central Paris offers its exquisite client Handunugoda’s virgin White tea.
45 minutes
The Galle Fort, or Dutch Fort as it is also known, is a fortification first built by the Portugese on the Southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The initial fortifications, which were built in the late 16th century, were quite basic. However the fort underwent extensive modifications in the 17th century by the Dutch, making it one of the most important archeological, architectural and historic monuments to illutrate the European influence in South East Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries. According to a statement by UNESCO the site was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its unique exposition of an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries which is the criteterion number four for such recognition.
60 minutes
Unawatuna is one of the biggest tourist destinations in Sri Lanka and is the most “famous” beach in the country. It is a lovely banana-shaped beach of golden sand and turquoise water, surrounded by green palm trees!
60 minutes
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
-
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible -
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
-
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
-
Public transportation options are available nearby
-
Specialized infant seats are available
-
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
-
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
-
Wheelchair accessible
What our experts say
-
Try the fish spa at Madu River! -
Visit the nearby Handunugoda Tea Estate.
-
Unawatuna Beach is great for sunset views.
-
Sample local cuisine at Galle Fort area.
-
Wear comfortable shoes for walking tours.
More About this Experience
Introduction
Experience the captivating beauty and rich history of the Galle and Bentota regions on this unforgettable day excursion from Colombo. Immerse yourself in the colonial charm of the Galle Fort as you explore its intriguing backstories and gain insights into Sri Lanka's modern culture. Marvel at the stunning views and immerse yourself in the colonial history that shaped this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness the magnificent sundown (during the evening tour) over the horizon, creating a magical ambiance before you leave the fort premises.
What to expect?
Embark on an adventure filled with stunning sights and cultural discoveries. Enjoy a mesmerizing boat safari along the famous Madu River, taking in the breathtaking scenery and indulging in a soothing fish spa for a truly unique experience. Visit the Handunugoda Tea Estate, where you'll have the opportunity to taste the world's healthiest tea, known for its rich antioxidants and untouched production process. The tour also includes a visit to the iconic Galle Fort, an architectural marvel that reflects the European influence in South Asia. Finally, relax and unwind at the renowned Unawatuna Beach, where you can soak up the sun and enjoy the turquoise waters.
Who is this for?
This day excursion is perfect for both history enthusiasts and nature lovers looking to explore the best of Sri Lanka's cultural and natural wonders. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a group, this tour offers something for everyone. It caters to those seeking a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka's colonial history, as well as those simply looking to relax and enjoy the beauty of the region's beaches and landscapes. No matter your age or interests, this excursion promises to create lasting memories and provide insights into the vibrant culture and history of Galle and Bentota.
Why book this?
Uncover the hidden gems of Galle and Bentota with this carefully crafted day excursion. The tour encompasses a diverse range of experiences, from thrilling boat safaris to unwinding on picturesque beaches. Explore the Galle Fort with its fascinating architectural wonders and intriguing stories that illustrate the historical interactions between Europe and South Asia. Indulge in the finest tea at Handunugoda Tea Estate, where the untouched white tea plucking process offers a truly unique and healthy beverage. Conclude the tour at the mesmerizing Unawatuna Beach, known for its golden sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters. Book this day excursion and immerse yourself in the history, culture, and natural beauty of this enchanting region.
Good to know
Duration: 480 to 600 minutes (8 to 10 hours)
Please note that the duration of each activity varies:
- Madu River boat safari: 60 minutes
- Handunugoda Tea Estate visit: 45 minutes
- Galle Fort exploration: 60 minutes
- Unawatuna Beach relaxation: 60 minutes
Bring your sense of adventure, curiosity, and a camera to capture the unforgettable moments during this day excursion. Don't forget to bring your sunscreen, hat, and comfortable footwear. Get ready for a day filled with exploration, relaxation, and awe-inspiring sights.
Reviews
Travelers who have experienced this day excursion rave about the unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty it offers. They express their delight in discovering the hidden gems of Galle and Bentota and commend the knowledgeable guides who provided insights into the region's captivating history. Visitors are particularly amazed by the Madu River boat safari, describing it as a mesmerizing and unforgettable experience. The Handunugoda Tea Estate visit receives high praise for its exquisite tea and the fascinating story behind it. The Galle Fort exploration leaves visitors in awe of its architectural grandeur and historical significance. Finally, travelers appreciate the relaxing and picturesque ambiance of Unawatuna Beach. Overall, this day excursion is highly recommended for those seeking a well-rounded and enriching experience in Galle and Bentota.
Your all‑in‑one travel companion app
Explore expert travel guides, compare and book tours, experiences, hotels, and more—all from the palm of your hand. Download now for seamless trip planning wherever your wanderlust takes you.
This is a popular product and the date you are looking for just sold out. Next available date is
