Private Colombo Half Day City Tour

Colombo, LK
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (1 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

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    Other
    Water Bottle
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    Other
    Seasonal Fruits
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    Other
    King Coconut
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    Other
    Free Wifi Onboard (Upon Request)
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    Other
    Professional & English speaking Expert Driver
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    Other
    Pickup & Drop Service by Air conditioned vehicle

Excluded

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    Other
    Food and drinks
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    Other
    Food & Beverages Other than Specified
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    Other
    Optional Activities
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    Entrance to sights

Pickup

Check if pick-up is available from your location, you will select during checkout (providers may allow other pickup locations)

Pickup Location
9 Pearls Resort
Aamanthaa Boutique Hotel
Amazinn Suites
Anarva Mount Lavinia Hotel & Spa
Apartment In Colombo
Artisan Villa
Ashan's Cozy Apartments Holiday
Atlantica Grand Hotel
Atrium
Atrium Leisure
Aubrona Hotel
Basel Holiday Homes
Battaramulla Boutique Hotel
Berjaya Hotel Colombo
Best Western Elyon Colombo
Bhakthi Yoga Sri Lanka
Blue Wild - Yala
Boswell Residencies
Capital O 358 Viveka Hotel
Ceylon City Hotel, Colombo
China International Hotel
Cinnamon Grand Colombo
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo
Cinnamon Red Colombo
City Hotel Colombo 02
City Motel
Co45Studio
Colombo Court Hotel & Spa
Colombo Tree House
Colombo Village
Confifi Marina
Crown Properties
De Colombo Boutique Hotel
Dumi's Shelter Home Stay
Earl's Red Colombo
Fairview Hotel
Fairway Colombo
Foozoo Mantra Lake Gardens
Galadari Hotel
Galle Face Hotel
Girls Hostel
Global Towers Hotel & Apartments
Golden Pier City Hotel
Granbell Hotel Colombo
Grand Oriental Hotel
Great Southern Hotel (GSH)
Green Garden
H-Hotel
Haputale Super View
Hector & Manel's Home
Heladiva Residence Colombo
Hilton Colombo
Hilton Colombo Residences
Hotel 111
Hotel 81
Hotel Eurolanka
Hotel invite
Hotel New Opera
Hotel Pabasara
Hotel Sansu
Hotel Sapphire
Iddamal Apartments
Janaki Hotel
Jeniro Villa
Jetwing Colombo Seven
Juliana Hotel - Colombo
Kreation Hotels
Lafala Hotel
Lavinia Villa
Lavonca Boutique Hotel
Le Papillon
Mandarina Colombo
Maniumpathy
Maple Tree Residencies
Marino Beach Colombo
Mayura Apartments
ME Colombo
Metro City Hotel
Mirage Hotel Colombo
Molesworth Homestay
Mount Best Hotel- Mount Lavinia
Mount Lanka Hotel & Suites
Mount Lavinia Hotel
Mount Lodge Boutique Hotel
Nh Collection Colombo
Ocean Edge Suites & Hotel
Omega Regency
Opulence Colombo
Opulent River Face Hotel
OYO 123 Hotel Bluemoon
OYO 274 Shan Hotel
OYO 276 Heavenly Heritage
OYO 440 Leo's Home Stay
OYO 449 Motel Vip
OYO 526 Sylph Residence
OYO MotelVIP
Pabasara Hotel
Paradise Road Tintagel Colombo
Pearl Grand Hotel
Pegasus Reef Hotel
Pinnacle Villa
Platinum One Suites
Prana Home
Radisson Hotel Colombo
Ramada by Wyndham Colombo
Regent Deanston Place
Regent Evergreen Park
Renuka City Hotel
Rivi Ras Hotel
Roadster Colombo
Rococo Residence
Rosmead Place by Thilanka
Royal Crown Residence Hotel
Royce Hotel
Sai Sea City Hotel (P) Ltd
Saveira Colombo
Serenity 27
Shangri-La Colombo
Sheraton Colombo Hotel
Solid Hotel Polhengoda
Sunrise Boutique
Swiss Grand Hotel
Taj Samudra, Colombo
Tarshish Villas Colombo
The Beehive Colombo
The Blue inn
The Canes Boutique Hotel
The Den 23
The Kingsbury Hotel
The Loft Colombo
The Ocean Colombo
The Reed Boutique Hotel
The Richmond House Colombo
The Roxbury
The Steuart By Citrus
Thomos Rest
Trillium Boutique City Hotel
Tropic Inn - Mount Lavinia
Udara's Colombo Residences
Unique Towers Luxury Boutique Suites
Villa Colombo 05
Villa Colombo 07
Vista Sea View Loft
Viveka Hotel Colombo
Waterfront Apartment Hotel
Wonder Hotel Colombo
Yoho Beach De Saram Place
Yoho Carlwil Place
Yoho Hotel Road
Yoho Hotel Sunhill Mount Lavinia
Yoho Ivory Inn
Yoho Red Lobster
Yoho Sarah Boutique Villa
Zest Metropole
• Operator will reconfirm your pick-up time in advance • Arrive at the hotel lobby 10 minutes before your selected pick up time

What to expect

1
Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple

Colombo is the most famous in Sri Lanka. It was built just over 120 years ago and is dedicated to Buddhism. The temple is celebrated for its lavish architecture and statues showcasing Sri Lankan, Chinese, Thai, Burmese and other artistic styles.

Duration 45 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
2

Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque

Its architecture is Indo-Saracenic, incorporating pomegranate-shaped domes. But the most extraordinary feature is that each brick is painted red or white and used in contrasting designs.(Photo Stop)

Duration 10 minutes
3
Independence Square

Independence Square is in the prestigious Cinnamon Gardens district of Colombo, Sri Lanka. It takes its name from the Independence Memorial Hall built there to commemorate the independence of Sri Lanka from British rule in 1948. Close to the Square is the Arcade, a modern shopping mall housed in former colonial government buildings.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
4

Viharamahadevi Park Bus Stop

Viharamahadevi Park or formally known as the Victoria park is the largest, oldest and most colorful park situated in the heart of Colombo. It is a perfect place to relax, for shady walks, picnics and most of all a great place to spend your time with your family.

5

Colombo Fort Railway Station

The railway line was started over a 150 years ago by the British. The old Fort region of Colombo is one of the busiest areas of the city. In 1877 the Coastal Railway Line was created and that is when the first station was opened. At the time, the Central Terminus was in a place near Maradana, The location can still be seen as it is now serving as the Sri Lanka Railway Museum.

6

Pettah

Pettah is one of the oldest districts in Colombo. It is the most ethnically mixed place in the country. Large religious buildings represent a plethora of faiths, while more earthly pursuits can be found in market stalls and shops. The crowds in Pettah can become overwhelming during the morning and afternoon rush hours.

7

St. Anthony's Church Shop

St Anthony's Church is a monument of love and devotion to St. Anthony raised by all, rich and poor, in Colombo, as well as in the whole of Ceylon. May Anthony protect this City and this Island and all his devout is and lovers therein.

8

Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil

Sri Ponnambala-waneswaram Temple is one of Sri Lanka's finest examples of Dravidian architecture. This temple in Kotahena, northeast of Pettah, is built of South Indian granite. It is dedicated to the Hindu God Shiva; while not being too old, it is still a peerless example of ancient Dravidan architecture.

9

Old Parliament Building

The new building for the Secretariat, Council Chamber, and Government offices will be completed in Colombo later this year. It will replace the current building, which was built during the British colonial era.

10
Bmich

The Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall is one of the foremost convention centres found on the island. BMICH has over 16,000 square feet of floor space. The construction of this convention center was a joint project between Sri Lankan and Chinese workers.

Duration 15 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included
11

Nelum Pokuna Art Street

Sri Lankans purchase art to adorn their homes, hotels, offices, and as gifts. Nelum Pokuna street artisans have contributed their might to this endeavour. For tourists to take home, a painting depicting a local theme is the best memento.

12

Colombo Galbokka Lighthouse

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The Lighthouse is one of the few lighthouses of the colonial era still operational to this date. The d in the lighthouse was commissioned so that worker in that area of Colombo can be more punctual since personal watches could not be afforded by everyone back in the day.

Duration 15 minutes
13
Khan Clock Tower

The tower was built in the early 20th century by a Parsi (hailed from Bombay) family of the name Khan. The four-story tall tower remains there to this day on a landscaped roundabout. Water fountain that's attached to it has long stopped working, but clock tower continues to function.

14

Temple Of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil

The temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil is one of the most beautiful and lovely attraction places of Sri Lanka. There are many beautiful and elegant paintings of God and Goddess. Also there are an beautiful carvings of an astrology chart. The inner roof of this temple is decorated with magnificent paintings. It is said that the temple of Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil is the most ancient Hindu temples in Colombo.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Not Included

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

  • Additional information
    Deposit trash in designated receptacles
  • Additional information
    If pick-up and drop-off locations are outside Colombo city, additional charges may apply.
  • Additional information
    Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
  • Additional information
    Littering & smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle.
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Additional information
    Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Additional information
    Pickup will be commenced prior to start the tour time; you must contact us to verify your exact pickup time.
  • Additional information
    Please observe proper dress code when visiting the temples as a form of respect. The basic rule is to wear clothing that covers the shoulders, and knees (Participants are advised dress appropriately for this activity (long pants, long-sleeved shirt or scarf to cover shoulders, and closed shoes)
  • Additional information
    Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue
  • Additional information
    Subject to favourable weather conditions. If cancelled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date.
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    The exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • Additional information
    What to Bring - Sunscreen, Caps or hats, , Camera, Sunglasses
Provided by Otn World

What our experts say

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    Don't miss the Gangaramaya Temple!
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    Stop by the Arcade for unique souvenirs.
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    Dress respectfully for temple visits.
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    Bring a hat; it can get sunny!
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    Take your time at Independence Square.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Step into the vibrant city of Colombo and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage and captivating sights. Discover the bustling streets, ancient temples, and colonial architecture that bring this city to life. Sri Lanka's bustling capital, Colombo, is a melting pot of diverse cultures and a treasure trove of historical landmarks. With its fascinating blend of old-world charm and modern attractions, this Private Colombo Half Day City Tour promises an unforgettable experience.

What to expect?

During this half-day tour, you can anticipate a whirlwind exploration of Colombo's most iconic landmarks. From the opulent Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple with its intricate statues to the striking Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque with its distinct red and white brickwork, each stop will leave you mesmerized. Take a leisurely stroll through Viharamahadevi Park, the oldest and largest park in Colombo, and bask in the tranquility amidst lush greenery. Experience the bustling energy of Pettah, one of the oldest districts in the city, where vibrant markets and diverse religious buildings coexist harmoniously.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for curious travelers of all ages who seek to uncover the vibrant history and cultural heritage of Colombo. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architectural admirer, or simply someone who loves exploring new cities, this tour offers a captivating experience for everyone. From families seeking an educational adventure to solo travelers yearning for local insights, this tour caters to a wide range of interests and preferences. Embrace the spirit of wanderlust and uncover the hidden gems of Colombo on this exciting journey.

Why book this?

Booking this Private Colombo Half Day City Tour allows you to delve into the heart and soul of Sri Lanka's capital city. Uncover the best-kept secrets and hidden gems of Colombo with the guidance of an experienced local expert. Gain a deeper understanding of the rich cultural tapestry that makes this city so unique. Marvel at the architectural wonders and dive into the fascinating history behind each landmark. With a flexible duration of 180 to 240 minutes, this tour ensures you have ample time to fully immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of Colombo.

Good to know

Embark on this tour with comfortable footwear as you explore Colombo on foot, uncovering each attraction at a leisurely pace. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting the temples and mosques to show appreciation for the local religious customs. Stay hydrated throughout the tour, especially during warmer months, and bring along your camera to capture the remarkable sights. Your knowledgeable guide will be on hand to share interesting insights and answer any questions you may have, ensuring an enriching experience. Sit back, relax, and let the charm of Colombo capture your heart during this unforgettable half-day city tour.

Reviews

Reviews for this Private Colombo Half Day City Tour consistently praise the knowledgeable guides who brought the city's history and culture to life. Travelers appreciate the well-planned itinerary, allowing them to cover the must-see attractions within a limited time frame. Many express their delight in discovering the hidden gems of Colombo, places that might have been easily overlooked without the guidance of the tour. Visitors also commend the professionalism and friendly nature of the guides, who made the experience even more enjoyable. Overall, those who have embarked on this tour have been thoroughly satisfied and highly recommend it for anyone seeking an immersive and informative experience in Colombo.

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