Table of Contents
Galle and Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo
Are you looking for a great way to experience two of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful cities in just one day? Consider combining a day of sightseeing in the city of Galle with a tour of Bentota, just 10 km or so down the coast from Colombo. It’s an amazing way to combine two of the most stunning destinations in Sri Lanka. Whether you opt for a self-guided day tour of Galle and Bentota or choose to arrange a guide, you can enjoy memorable sights, sounds and experiences in both cities.
Galle
Galle is a port city located on the south coast of Sri Lanka, where Arabic, Indian and Dutch influences have made their mark over the centuries. It is best known for its old fort built by the Dutch and its picturesque 16th Century Galle Fort which, together with its surrounding fortifications, is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage area.
Exploring Galle is a rewarding experience, with numerous sights and attractions on offer. You can take a leisurely stroll along its cobblestone streets, marvel at its majestic buildings or tour its imposing Galle Fort, seeing all its beauty up close. From the lighthouse to the National Maritime Museum and the Dutch Historical Museum, there are several interesting sites to explore in Galle. You can also take a break from sightseeing to sample some of its delicious seafood dishes or visit some of its lively markets and traditional shops.
Bentota
Just 10 km down the coast from Colombo lies Bentota, a picturesque fishing village rich in Indian, Arabic and Sinhala heritage. It is well known for its beautiful beach lined with coconut palms, wide range of water-sports activities and location at the mouth of the Bentara River.
The area is a great place to visit if you’re looking to relax on the beach or indulge in some adventurous activities. There are plenty of water sports on offer ranging from jet-skiing and water-skiing to windsurfing, sailing and fishing. For those who prefer to stay on land, Bentota offers yoga classes on the beach, gentle bird watching tours and hiking in nearby tropical forests.
For visitors wishing to explore the cultural heritage of Bentota, there are multiple attractions to choose from. A boat ride along the Bentara River will take you through some of the most spectacular scenery in Sri Lanka and introduces you to local life at riverside villages where fishermen still ply their trade. You can also explore Bentota’s rich history by visiting Galapata Temple or Rajagala Temple, both excellent examples of ancient Sinhalese architecture.
Benefits of Galle & Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo
A Galle and Bentota day tour from Colombo gives you an amazing opportunity to explore two diverse cities located in close proximity. It offers an exciting way to experience to Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage at the same time. Depending on your desired pace and interests, a guided tour or independent exploration can be arranged at whatever time is convenient for you.
Other advantages include having access to reliable transportation throughout the entire day – useful if you’re not familiar with public transportation – as well as having an experienced guide on board who can provide helpful insight about each destination. You’ll also have access to basic amenities such as air-conditioned vehicles and reputable tour operators – ensuring that you have a stress-free day from start to finish.
If you really want to make your day complete then why not treat yourself to an unforgettable sunset cruise from Bentota back to Colombo? This is a special treat that really rounds off a fantastic day of sightseeing.
Where To Book A Galle & Bentota Day-Tour From Colombo?
One reliable tour operator that offers excellent service at affordable prices is GetYourGuide. Their comprehensive day tours feature convenient transport services, knowledgeable tour guides, authentic local experiences and all the must-see points of interest in Galle and Bentota. Plus, they offer a convenient online booking system that guarantees you get exactly what you need with no hassle. So if you’re looking for the perfect day tour from Colombo then why not get the perfect Day-Tour with GetYourGuide now?
An Insider’s Guide to Galle and Bentota Day-Tour from Colombo
Traveling to Galle and Bentota from Colombo is a must-do day tour when visiting Sri Lanka. These two cities offer a unique blend of history, culture, and breathtaking sceneries. As an insider’s guide, I’ll take you through some of the lesser-known spots, delicious cuisine, local customs, and fascinating stories that make this tour a memorable one.
Local Attractions
While famous sites such as the Galle Fort or Bentota Beach are undeniably beautiful, there are some hidden gems that are often overlooked. For instance, the Handunugoda Tea Estate is an excellent place to learn about the tea-making process. Not only can you appreciate the lush greenery and scenic view, but you can also taste an array of distinctive teas.
Additionally, there’s a unique snake farm located in Bentota, where one can see and interact with a variety of snakes like cobras, vipers, and pythons, making it an unforgettable experience. The Brief Garden is another attraction worth a visit, a beautifully landscaped garden that was once the home of Sri Lanka’s famed architect, Bevis Bawa.
Dining Spots
Sri Lankan cuisine has a reputation for being spicy and flavorsome, and the seafood here is to die for. For authentic Sri Lankan food, look no further than Lucky Fort Restaurant in Galle, where you can savor curry served in traditional clay pots, side dishes like hoppers and rotis, and seafood fresh from the ocean.
Craving something sweet? Stop by Hettiyage’s Ice Cream Parlor, which is a local favorite and serves mouth-watering ice cream made from fresh tropical fruits. If you’re in Bentota, don’t miss out on dining at the Golden Grill Seafood Restaurant, which serves an array of delicious seafood dishes and a stunning seaview.
Cultural Experiences
Sri Lankans have a rich heritage and year-round festivals that showcase this. While on your Galle and Bentota Day Tour, you may experience one of the many colorful festivals that Sri Lankans celebrate throughout the year. For instance, the Kandy Esala Perahera parades elephants bedecked in ornate costumes along streets, accompanied by drummers and dancers, representing Buddha’s tooth relic.
In Galle, you can witness the Muslim festival of Eid al-Fitr, marking the end of Ramadan, which is a magnificent sight to behold. It’s a great way to experience the city’s culture through its customs and traditions.
Local History
The southwestern coast of Sri Lanka has witnessed a turbulent past, from the colonial influence of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British to the devastating 2004 tsunami. Despite this, Galle and Bentota remain havens for history and culture enthusiasts.
The Ariyapala Mask Museum in Ambalangoda, which exhibits traditional masks that have played significant roles in ancient Sri Lankan rituals and ceremonies, is a must-visit when in the area. The Tsunami Photo Museum in Telwatta, which documents the events of the 2004 disaster and the rebuilding process, is another sobering yet educational site worth visiting.
Off-the-beaten-path suggestions
If you’re looking for a unique way to enjoy an adventure, a Madu River Boat Safari is a good option. It’s ideal for spotting wildlife, mangroves, and fascinating landscape views.
For an extraordinary experience, take a hot air balloon ride over Bentota’s stunning landscape and savor the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean or even go whale watching. These are fantastic activities that provide breathtaking moments and will make your trip unforgettable.
In conclusion, on your Galle and Bentota Day Tour from Colombo, take the time to explore the lesser-known parts of these two amazing cities and to experience the rich cultural heritage and beauty the towns have to offer. Hopefully, my insider’s guide has given you some inspiration for your trip. Don’t forget to share your experiences with family and friends, spreading the word about the wonders of Galle and Bentota.
