Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion

The Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. This captivating full-day experience takes visitors from the bustling capital of Colombo to the charming coastal town of Galle, where they’ll witness the remarkable stilt fishing tradition and uncover the architectural gems that have earned the city a UNESCO World Heritage designation. With a delectable buffet lunch and guided tours, this excursion promises an unforgettable blend of sights, sounds, and flavors. For those seeking to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s dynamic past and vibrant present, this shore excursion is not to be missed.

Key Points

• A full-day excursion from Colombo to Galle, showcasing the city’s architectural heritage with Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences.
• Opportunity to witness the unique stilt fishing tradition in Weligama, providing insight into the local culture.
• Includes a guided tour of Galle’s UNESCO-listed old town, as well as a buffet lunch featuring regional flavors.
• Convenient port pickup and drop-off, with transportation and fuel surcharge included in the tour package.
• Designed to be wheelchair and stroller accessible, catering to diverse traveler needs.

Tour Overview

This full-day excursion takes travelers from Colombo to the historic port city of Galle.

Along the way, guests will visit the stilt fishermen of Weligama, a unique local tradition.

Once in Galle, the guided tour explores the city’s captivating architecture, reflecting its Portuguese and Dutch colonial heritage.

Visitors can wander through the cobblestone streets, admiring the well-preserved buildings.

The tour includes a delicious buffet lunch, providing an opportunity to savor the flavors of the region.

With convenient port pickup and drop-off, as well as accessibility features, this excursion offers an immersive and hassle-free experience for travelers to discover the charms of Galle.

Inclusions

The tour includes several essential amenities to enhance the experience. Travelers will receive bottled water to stay hydrated throughout the day. A delicious buffet lunch is provided, allowing participants to savor local cuisine.

Plus, the tour includes:

• Port pickup and drop-off for convenient transportation
• Fuel surcharge and landing/facility fees
• The option to purchase alcoholic drinks during the tour

These inclusions ensure a seamless and enjoyable shore excursion, catering to the needs and preferences of your.

The tour’s comprehensive package allows participants to focus on exploring the captivating sights and cultural experiences of Galle and Colombo.

Pickup Information

Participants will be picked up from the Colombo Port.

They’ll need to meet the representative near the Gangway with a name sign. It’s important not to leave the meeting area or take the shuttle bus. This is to ensure the tour starts on time and everyone is accounted for.

The pickup process is straightforward, and the staff will be there to guide participants through it.

With the meeting point clearly specified, travelers can have peace of mind knowing they’ll be taken care of from the start of the excursion.

Accessibility and Additional Info

The tour is wheelchair accessible and stroller accessible, with infant seats available for those who need them. Most travelers can participate in this excursion.

Here are a few key details about the accessibility and additional information:

• The tour is wheelchair accessible, so guests using mobility aids can join.
• Strollers are also welcomed on the tour for families with young children.
• Infant seats are provided for those who require them during the excursion.

This private tour is designed for your group only, ensuring a personalized experience.

The tour includes pickup and drop-off at the Colombo Port, along with a guided tour, buffet lunch, and more.

Pricing and Cancellation

Pricing for the Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion starts at $160.00 per person, with the exact cost varying based on the size of the group.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience, providing flexibility for travelers. Confirmation of the booking is received at the time of booking, subject to availability if booked within one day of the tour.

This ensures that customers can plan their trip with confidence, knowing their reservation is secure. Whether traveling solo or in a group, the pricing and cancellation policy make this shore excursion an attractive option for those seeking to explore the sights of Galle and Colombo.

Stilt Fishermen at Weligama

One of the highlights of the Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion is the opportunity to witness the unique practice of stilt fishing in Weligama.

Centuries-old, this traditional fishing technique involves balancing on long wooden poles planted in the shallow waters, allowing the fishermen to cast their lines from an elevated position.

Visitors can observe:

• Fishermen expertly maneuvering on the stilts to catch the day’s catch
• The picturesque scene of brightly colored fishing boats and stilts dotting the coastline
• The fascinating history and cultural significance of this age-old practice that has been passed down through generations.

This intimate encounter with Weligama’s stilt fishermen provides a truly authentic and memorable experience for shore excursion participants.

Exploring Galle’s Architecture

After exploring the unique stilt fishing tradition in Weligama, the Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion participants move on to discover the rich architectural heritage of the historic city of Galle.

The walking tour through Galle’s UNESCO-listed old town reveals a captivating blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial influences. Visitors marvel at the well-preserved 17th-century ramparts, the iconic lighthouse, and the iconic Dutch Reformed Church.

The tour also includes stops at the National Maritime Museum and the Galle Fort, allowing participants to delve deeper into the region’s history and culture.

With knowledgeable guides providing insightful commentary, the architectural exploration offers a fascinating glimpse into Galle’s storied past.

Guided Tour and Buffet Lunch

The guided tour and buffet lunch are the centerpieces of the Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion. During the guided tour, visitors will explore Galle’s rich architectural heritage, including its Portuguese and Dutch influences.

The buffet lunch features a delectable spread of local and international cuisines, providing a taste of Sri Lankan culinary delights.

Some key highlights of the guided tour and buffet lunch include:

• Immersion in Galle’s captivating history and culture
• Opportunity to savor the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine
• Comfortable and hassle-free experience with transportation and port pickup/drop-off

This comprehensive excursion allows visitors to make the most of their time in Galle, blending history, architecture, and gastronomy for an unforgettable shore experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Galle?

The best time to visit Galle is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is sunny and mild, making it ideal for exploring the city’s historic sites and beaches.

Can I Extend the Tour to Include Other Nearby Attractions?

Guests can customize the tour to include additional nearby attractions, such as the Galle Dutch Fort, Unawatuna Beach, or Koggala Lake, for an additional cost. However, the standard tour focuses on the key sights in Galle.

Are There Any Restrictions on Photography During the Tour?

The tour allows for photography throughout, though visitors should be respectful and avoid disrupting activities. There are no known restrictions, though guides may provide guidance to ensure a positive experience for all participants.

Are Vegetarian or Other Dietary Options Available for the Lunch?

The tour includes a buffet lunch, and the provider notes that vegetarian options are available. Travelers with other dietary requirements should contact the provider in advance to ensure their needs can be accommodated.

What Is the Maximum Group Size for This Private Tour?

This private tour has no set maximum group size. The pricing and availability vary based on the total number of participants. Travelers can book the tour for their own private group of any size.

Recap

The Galle and Colombo Shore Excursion offers a captivating cultural experience, blending the unique stilt fishing tradition in Weligama with a guided tour of Galle’s historic UNESCO-listed architecture. Travelers can enjoy the Portuguese and Dutch influences while enjoying a delicious buffet lunch, making for an unforgettable day exploring the rich heritage and local flavors of the region.