Private Colombo Tuk-A-thon

Colombo, LK

Included

  • inclusion
    Tickets to the sites

Excluded

  • exclusion
    Food and drink

Meeting Point

Please stay by the open area tables of the Dutch Pub. Look for your host wearing a Blue shirt/ T-shirt

Meeting point

Hospital St, Colombo 00100 , Sri Lanka

End point

End Point

We wrap it up at one of the contemporary monuments in Colombo, which marks the era of post-colonial Sri Lanka, with the option of taking your own transport back to your hotel or winding down at a nearby dining precinct.

Meeting point

7 Independence Ave, Colombo 00700 , Sri Lanka

End point

Pickup

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

Pickup Location
Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo
Fairway Colombo
Galadari Hotel
Grand Oriental Hotel
Haputale Super View
Hilton Colombo
Shangri-La Colombo
The Kingsbury Hotel
The Steuart By Citrus
Zest Metropole
Please specify if your hotel is within 1km radius of the aforesaid and be at the foyer of your hotel. If your hotel is far out, please choose the ''no pick-up'' option and be at our general starting point - the Dutch pub behind the Dutch hospital precinct

What to expect

1

Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

Meet and greet at a convergence point of Colombo's colonial past and modernization. We'll begin with a 15 min walk through what used to be the old Dutch fort's hospital, now turned into a fine dining and shopping precinct with so much history preserved. Before we hop into our tuk-tuks, we'll get to see the wall street of Sri Lanka and a monumental clock tower older than Big Ben.

Duration 15 minutes
2

Presidential Secretariat

As we hop on and off of our tuk-tuks - you'll be introduced to the port-centered trades and the buildings of the British colonial past, which gave shape to Colombo as the capital. As we ride past a long street surrounded by what used to be governors' mansions, shipping offices and banks in the 1800's you'll feel like walking back in time.

Duration 25 minutes
3

Colombo Fort

Catch a glimpse of one of South Asia's busiest ports with so much history to be dredged out. Along the way, learn the story of naval travelers to Colombo and how they moved around.

Duration 15 minutes
4

Pettah

Meant to say the periphery of the colonial fort town, this is where Colombo became a key trading hub for locals and a pot-purry of ethnicities involved in the trade. A labyrinth of nooks and streets filled with bustle and colonial monuments hidden in plain sight. We might take brief strolls, as the traffic plan isn't always photo friendly. You might want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and some modest clothing (temple clothing) to get the best out of these walks.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
5
Sri Ponnambalam Vanesar Kovil

A testament to the cultural diversity of Colombo, catch a breathtaking visit to a granite-carved Hindu temple. The place has some limitations to photography indoors and observes modest clothing and no foot/headwear policies.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6
Galle Face Green

We take a break from the crowds to get some fresh coastal air at one of the oldest promenades in Colombo with Asia's oldest hotel at one end and the latest infrastructure development at another.

Duration 20 minutes
7
Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple

Your fine sample of a Buddhist monument with a Buddha's relic and an aesthetic zeal - is located in an area called ''slave islands'' with a history of colonial slavery and moat building. We recommend modest clothing.

Duration 30 minutes
Admission Admission Included
8
Viharamahadevi Park

We move further into Colombo, passing the central park and the new town hall which might seem a bit out of place. The area isn't short of both colonial and modern buildings which particularly has relevance to art/music and performances.

Duration 15 minutes
9
Independence Square

A Sri Lankan architectural ICON and a milepost in political history bring us on a flashback of the State's history and its tussles. We'll wrap up our journey here with so many memories to share and you can whine down at the close by shopping precinct or head out to your next plan for the eve.

Duration 20 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

  • Additional information
    infants
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Provided by Cham

What our experts say

  • icon
    Try local snacks at Pettah market.
  • icon
    Wear modest clothing for temple visits.
  • icon
    Galle Face Green is perfect for sunset.
  • icon
    Explore nearby cafes after the tour.
  • icon
    Bring a hat and sunglasses for comfort.

More About this Experience

Introduction

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of Colombo with the Private Colombo Tuk-A-thon. This unique tour offers an information-rich storytelling experience, combining the lesser-known backstories and deep local insights that you won't find in guidebooks. Get ready to see Colombo from a whole new perspective as you explore its colonial past and modernization.

What to expect?

During this 180 to 240-minute tour, you can anticipate a truly immersive experience. Starting at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, you'll be guided through the old fort's hospital, now transformed into a fine dining and shopping hub. As we hop on and off our tuk-tuks, you'll be introduced to the port-centered trades and buildings of Colombo's British colonial past. Delve into the fascinating history of naval travelers and discover the bustling Pettah neighborhood, a melting pot of cultures and a labyrinth of hidden colonial monuments.

Who is this for?

The Private Colombo Tuk-A-thon is for anyone seeking a unique, off-the-beaten-path adventure. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a culture lover, or a curious traveler, this tour offers something for everyone. It's an ideal choice for individuals, couples, and small groups who want to explore Colombo's rich heritage and local insights.

Why book this?

Unlike traditional guided tours, the Private Colombo Tuk-A-thon provides an authentic and immersive experience that goes beyond the surface. Our knowledgeable guides are experts in local history and will share brutally honest insights, helping you truly understand the destination as it is. You'll have the opportunity to enjoy random local experiences tailored to your preferences, be it architecture, food, or interactions with locals. Additionally, our experienced drivers ensure you navigate the bustling streets of Colombo with ease.

Good to know

Please note that modest clothing is recommended for certain locations, such as temples. We also advise bringing a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable footwear for the walking portions of the tour. At the end of the tour, you'll have the option to explore a contemporary monument in Colombo or return to your hotel.

Reviews

Travelers who have experienced the Private Colombo Tuk-A-thon have raved about the insightful storytelling and immersive nature of the tour. They highlight the knowledgeable guides who bring the history and culture of Colombo to life. Many have expressed their satisfaction with the unique perspectives gained during the tour and highly recommend it to fellow travelers. Don't miss the opportunity to discover the hidden gems and fascinating stories of Colombo with this exceptional tour experience.

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