How to Explore Colombo’s City Tour Highlights with a Private Shore Excursion

Exploring Colombo’s iconic landmarks and hidden gems can be overwhelming, especially if you’re on a tight schedule or have limited time. However, with a private shore excursion, you can make the most of your trip and see Colombo’s city tour highlights comfortably and conveniently. In this guide, we’ll show you how to plan and enjoy a private shore excursion in Colombo and experience the best of Sri Lanka’s bustling capital city.

Overview of the Tour

The Shore Excursion Colombo City Tour Highlights is a private tour that allows you to explore Colombo at your own pace and interests. You’ll be picked up from the port and transferred to an air-conditioned vehicle for a comfortable and hassle-free ride. Your private chauffeur and guide will take you on a comprehensive itinerary that includes Colombo’s must-see landmarks and attractions. The tour highlights include:

National Museum

The National Museum is the largest museum in Sri Lanka, showcasing the country’s rich cultural and historical heritage. You’ll explore the museum’s galleries and exhibitions that display ancient artifacts, art, and weaponry. You’ll also learn about Sri Lanka’s colonial past and its struggle for independence.

Gangarama

The Gangarama is a Buddhist temple complex that features a vast collection of artifacts, carvings, and statues. You’ll marvel at the temple’s intricate architecture and serene ambiance as you stroll through its gardens and temple halls.

Seema Malakaya

The Seema Malakaya is a unique Buddhist temple located in the middle of Beira Lake. You’ll take a boat ride to the temple, where you can admire its peaceful surroundings and stunning views of the city.

Beira Lake

Beira Lake is Colombo’s largest lake, surrounded by lush greenery and cityscapes. You’ll take a relaxing walk around the lake and enjoy its peaceful ambiance and picturesque views.

Jamiul Alfar Mosque

The Jamiul Alfar Mosque is an iconic landmark known for its striking red-and-white candy-striped facade. You’ll learn about Islam’s role in Sri Lanka’s history and culture and admire the mosque’s unique architecture.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Shore Excursion Colombo City Tour Highlights is a comprehensive and customizable private tour that includes:

Port Pickup and Drop-Off

You’ll be picked up and dropped off at the port, ensuring a stress-free and convenient start and end to your tour.

English-Speaking Chauffeur

Your private chauffeur will be fluent in English, ensuring clear communication and personalized attention throughout your tour.

Air-Conditioned Vehicle

You’ll travel in a comfortable and air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring ultimate comfort and relaxation throughout your tour.

Bottled Water

You’ll receive bottled water to stay hydrated and refreshed during your tour.

How to Book the Tour

You can book the Shore Excursion Colombo City Tour Highlights on Viator’s website. The tour is available every day and can be customized to suit your interests and preferences. Simply select your desired date and time, the number of travelers, and book your tour here.

Tips for a Memorable Private Shore Excursion in Colombo

To make the most of your private shore excursion in Colombo, you should consider these tips:

Customize Your Itinerary

The tour is completely customizable, so make sure to let your guide know about your interests and preferences. They’ll be happy to adjust the itinerary accordingly and ensure you have the best experience.

Wear Comfortable Shoes and Clothing

Colombo’s weather can be hot and humid, so make sure to wear comfortable shoes and clothing that are appropriate for the weather and the tour’s activities.

Bring Your Camera

Colombo is a city full of picturesque landscapes, unique architecture, and colorful street scenes. You’ll want to capture these moments, so make sure to bring your camera or smartphone and take plenty of photos.

Respect Local Customs and Culture

Sri Lanka is a conservative and religious country, so make sure to dress appropriately and respect local customs and culture while on the tour.

The Bottom Line

The Shore Excursion Colombo City Tour Highlights is a comprehensive, customizable, and convenient way to explore Colombo’s city tour highlights. You’ll skip the crowds and the hassle and get personalized attention and comfort throughout the tour. Book your tour today and experience the best of Sri Lanka’s capital city.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colombo

Are you planning a trip to the beautiful and bustling city of Colombo? Do you have questions about what to see, where to stay, and what to eat? Look no further! Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Colombo:

1. What is Colombo?

Colombo is the largest city and commercial capital of Sri Lanka. It is located on the southwest coast of the country and has a population of over 750,000 people.

2. What are some of the must-see attractions in Colombo?

There are many things to see and do in Colombo, but here are some of the top attractions:

• The National Museum of Colombo
• The Gangaramaya Temple
• The Viharamahadevi Park
• The Pettah Market
• The Old Dutch Hospital
• The Galle Face Green

3. What is the best time of year to visit Colombo?

The best time to visit Colombo is between December and March when the weather is dry and sunny. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and bigger crowds. If you prefer fewer crowds and lower prices, consider visiting between April and June or September and November.

4. What are the best places to stay in Colombo?

Colombo has many great hotels and accommodations. Here are some of the top-rated options:

Hotel Name	Location	Price Range
Galle Face Hotel	Galle Face Green	$150-$500 per night
Hilton Colombo	Fort District	$120-$400 per night
Taj Samudra	Galle Face Green	$100-$300 per night
Shangri-La Colombo	Galle Face Green	$200-$500 per night

5. What is the food like in Colombo?

Colombo has a rich and diverse culinary scene, influenced by Indian, Malay, Portuguese, and Dutch cuisine. Some of the must-try dishes include:

• Hoppers – a traditional Sri Lankan breakfast food made with fermented rice flour and coconut milk.
• Kottu Roti – a popular street food made with shredded roti bread, vegetables, and meat.
• Lamprais – a Dutch-influenced dish made with rice, meat, and condiments all wrapped in a banana leaf.
• Ceylon Tea – Sri Lanka is known for its world-famous tea, so be sure to try some while you’re in Colombo!

6. Is Colombo a safe city for tourists?

Colombo is generally a safe city for tourists, but like any big city, there are certain precautions you should take. It is recommended to avoid walking alone at night and to be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas.

7. What is the currency in Sri Lanka?

The currency in Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

8. Do I need a visa to visit Colombo?

Yes, most visitors to Sri Lanka will need a visa to enter the country. However, some nationalities are eligible for visa-free travel. Be sure to check the Sri Lankan embassy website for the most up-to-date visa requirements before your trip.

9. What language do they speak in Colombo?

The official languages of Sri Lanka are Sinhalese and Tamil, but English is widely spoken in Colombo and other tourist areas.

10. How do I get around Colombo?

There are several transportation options in Colombo, including taxi, tuk-tuk, and public transportation. The bus system is extensive and affordable, but can be confusing for first-time visitors. Taxis and tuk-tuks are widely available, but be sure to negotiate the price before getting in.

Book Your Tour Now

With its rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious food, Colombo is a must-see destination for any traveler to Sri Lanka. By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well-prepared for a fun and memorable trip. Happy travels!

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colombo

Decorated with a mix of modern architecture, historic landmarks, vibrant culture, and luscious vegetation, Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka. Colombo is not only the commercial hub of Sri Lanka but also a city filled with history and culture. Here are some fantastic ways to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo.

1. Visit the National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is a perfect place to learn about the history and culture of Sri Lanka. It is the largest museum on the island and houses a vast collection of exhibits, including paintings, sculptures, and other artifacts, some of which date back over 2,500 years. The museum’s galleries represent the country’s ancient kingdoms, colonial periods, and contemporary art.

2. Explore Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a popular waterfront park in the heart of Colombo. It’s an ideal place for an evening stroll, a picnic, or a romantic sunset. Galle Face Green is also popular for kite flying, cricket, and food vendors. You can try a variety of Sri Lankan street foods, including the famous kottu roti (a snack made from shredded roti, vegetables, and meat).

3. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is a fascinating Buddhist temple complex in the heart of Colombo. It’s a great place to soak up the culture and learn about Buddhism. The complex houses a museum, library, and various shrines, including a life-size Buddha statue in the main temple.

4. Take a Safari at Yala National Park

Yala National Park is a two-hour drive from Colombo and is home to various wildlife species, including leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species. A Yala National Park Safari is a must-do activity for wildlife enthusiasts. You can choose to go on a half-day safari or a full-day safari.

5. Visit the Pettah Market

Pettah Market is one of the busiest markets in Colombo, and it’s an ideal place to buy souvenirs, clothes, and jewelry. You can enjoy exploring the market’s narrow streets, and you may also stumble upon some hidden street food gems.

6. Shopping at Arcade Independence Square

Arcade Independence Square is a modern shopping complex located in a historic building in Colombo. The arcade is home to an array of designer stores, cafes, and restaurants. The architecture and design of the building are fascinating, and the building has a unique history.

7. Experience Colombo Nightlife

Colombo’s nightlife scene is vibrant and varied. There are many bars, clubs, and pubs to choose from, and the atmosphere is lively and fun. Many places offer live music and entertainment, and you can enjoy dancing the night away.

8. Walk Along Colombo’s Waterfront

Colombo’s waterfront is one of the city’s standout features. A stroll along the waterfront is an excellent way to take in the city’s beauty and watch the sunset. You can also enjoy some of the excellent seafood restaurants along the waterfront.

9. Visit the Viharamahadevi Park

Viharamahadevi Park is a tranquil and peaceful park in the heart of Colombo. The park has several walking paths, lakes, and gardens. There are also several monuments and statues located throughout the park.

10. Go on a City Tour

Going on a city tour is an excellent way to see all the main attractions in Colombo. There are many city tour operators in Colombo, and you can choose between guided tours or self-guided tours. Some of the highlights of a city tour include visiting the Independence Square, the Beira Lake, and the Parliament.

Book Your Tour Now

Colombo is a diverse and exciting city filled with numerous attractions and activities to do. Whether you’re interested in culture, history, or just enjoying the scenery, there is something for everyone in Colombo. Use this guide to plan out your itinerary and make the most of your time in this beautiful city.