How to Plan Your Colombo City Tour a Day from Negombo

If you’re planning to visit Sri Lanka, the bustling capital city Colombo is surely on your must-visit list. However, planning the trip, figuring out transportation and logistics can be a little overwhelming. That’s why we suggest booking the Colombo City Tour a Day from Negombo, which is designed to give you a full taste of the city’s best sights in 24 hours.

Overview of the Tour

The Colombo City Tour a Day takes you on a private sightseeing trip around the city, covering all the main attractions of Colombo. You’ll visit temples, mosques, museums, the Fort, Independence Square, the old colonial-style Parliament buildings, and even the harbor. You can tailor the day trip to suit your own interests with a transport-only tour, so you can explore the city on your own terms. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit local shopping precincts and handicraft workshops.

What’s Included in the Tour

You’ll have the comfort of air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour. However, keep in mind that the cost of optional activities, entrance fees, guide service fees, tips, and gratuities are not included in the package. So, make sure to bring enough cash with you to cover additional expenses.

Meeting and Pickup

The meeting point for the tour is at Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake, Sri Lanka. However, if you prefer, you can request a pickup from your accommodation by contacting the tour operator in advance.

Booking Information

You can book the Colombo City Tour a Day from Negombo tour through viator.com. The tour is offered by a third-party company, and you can book it using the following link: book the tour here. Be sure to check the tour details on the website before booking.

Itinerary

Here is a breakdown of the tour:

9:30 am – 10:00 am: Pick up from Bandaranaike International Airport or your accommodation

The tour starts in the morning, where you’ll be picked up from either the airport or your accommodation in Negombo. The exact time and location will be confirmed by the tour operator in advance.

10:00 am – 11:00 am: Visit the Gangaramaya Temple

First on the itinerary is a visit to Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important temples in Colombo. You’ll have the chance to see the beautiful architecture and decorations, as well as learn more about Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

11:15 am – 12:15 pm: Visit the Pettah Market

Next up is a visit to Pettah Market, where you can experience the hustle and bustle of local market life in Colombo. You’ll see a variety of items on sale, from fresh produce to textiles, electronics, and other commodities.

12:30 pm – 2:00 pm: Lunch and Mosque visit

After exploring the market, you’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant. The tour operator will suggest some good places to try local food. You’ll also visit a mosque in the area, which will give you a chance to learn more about Islam in Sri Lanka.

2:15 pm – 3:45 pm: Visit the Colombo National Museum and Galle Face Green

Afternoon activities include a trip to the Colombo National Museum and Galle Face Green. The museum houses a collection of artifacts related to the country’s history, including ancient art, weaponry, and religious relics. Galle Face Green is a popular green space that overlooks the Indian Ocean, where locals gather to relax and enjoy the seaside views.

4:00 pm – 5:00 pm: Visit the Old Parliament Building and Queen’s House

To wrap up the tour, you’ll visit the old colonial-style Parliament buildings and Queen’s House, a beautiful mansion built by the Dutch in the 18th century.

5:30 pm – 6:00 pm: Drop off at Bandaranaike International Airport or your accommodation

The tour will conclude with drop off at either the airport or your accommodation by 6:00 pm.

Additional Tips

Here are a few additional tips to keep in mind to make the most of your Colombo City Tour a Day:

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing since there will be a lot of walking and exploring.
• It’s better to carry cash with you since some of the small shops and stalls in the market may not accept credit cards.
• Carry a camera to capture all the beautiful sights and memories of the trip.
• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and a hat since it can get quite hot during the day.

Final Thoughts

The Colombo City Tour a Day from Negombo is a great way to explore the city’s highlights in just one day. With the comfort of a private vehicle and an itinerary covering all the top attractions, you can sit back, relax and get the most out of your Sri Lankan vacation. Book your tour today and get ready for a day filled with culture, history, and adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions About Negombo

Negombo is a popular tourist destination situated on the west coast of Sri Lanka. Its beautiful beaches, cultural heritage, and delicious seafood make it a must-visit place for travelers. Here are some FAQs about Negombo that will help you plan your trip.

1. Where is Negombo located?

Negombo is a city located on the west coast of Sri Lanka. It is about 35 kilometers from the capital city, Colombo. It is also about 10 kilometers away from the Bandaranaike International Airport, which makes it a convenient place for tourists to stay before heading out to other parts of the country.

2. What is the best time to visit Negombo?

The best time to visit Negombo is from November to April when the weather is dry and sunny. This is the peak tourist season in Sri Lanka, and the beaches are crowded during this time. However, if you want to avoid the crowds and save some money, you can visit during the off-season from May to October when the weather is rainy.

3. What are the popular tourist attractions in Negombo?

Negombo has a lot of tourist attractions that cater to all kinds of visitors. Some of the popular attractions include:

– Negombo Beach: The golden sandy beach is the main attraction of Negombo. The beach is long and wide, making it perfect for sunbathing and swimming.

– Dutch Canal: The canal was built during the Dutch colonial period in the 17th century. You can take a boat ride along the canal to see the mangroves and wildlife.

– St. Mary’s Church: The church was built by the Portuguese in 1575 and is one of the oldest churches in Sri Lanka. It has beautiful stained glass windows and elaborate paintings.

– Muthurajawela Marsh: The marsh is a rich biodiversity hotspot and is home to many species of birds, butterflies, and fish.

4. What is the food like in Negombo?

Negombo is famous for its fresh seafood, and you will find many seafood restaurants along the beach. Some of the popular seafood dishes include prawns, crabs, lobsters, and fish curries. You should also try the Sri Lankan rice and curry, which is a staple dish in the country. The rice and curry consists of rice and a variety of curries, including vegetable curries, meat curries, and dal (lentil) curry.

5. What is the nightlife like in Negombo?

Negombo does not have a very active nightlife scene, but you will find some bars and pubs along the beach. The bars stay open till late at night, and you can enjoy some drinks while listening to live music. If you are looking for a more lively nightlife, you can head to Colombo, which is about 45 minutes away from Negombo.

6. Is it safe to travel to Negombo?

Negombo is a safe place to visit, and the crime rate is low. However, like any other tourist destination, you should be careful with your belongings and avoid walking alone at night. It is always better to travel with a guide or in a group.

7. What is the currency used in Negombo?

The currency used in Negombo is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR). You can exchange foreign currency at the airport or at banks and money changers in the city. You can also withdraw money from ATMs, which are widely available in the city.

8. What is the language spoken in Negombo?

The main language spoken in Negombo is Sinhala, which is the official language of Sri Lanka. However, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.

9. What are the transportation options in Negombo?

Negombo has many transportation options, including:

– Tuk-tuks: Tuk-tuks are a popular mode of transport in Sri Lanka, and you can easily find them in Negombo. However, always negotiate the fare before getting in.

– Buses: Buses are the most affordable way to travel in Sri Lanka, and there are many buses that connect Negombo to other parts of the country.

– Trains: There is a train station in Negombo, and you can take a train to Colombo and other parts of the country. However, trains can be crowded, and it is advisable to book your tickets in advance.

Conclusion

Negombo is a beautiful city that has something to offer for everyone. Whether you are a beach lover, a foodie, or a history buff, you will find something to enjoy in Negombo. Make sure to plan your trip well in advance to make the most of your stay.