How to Plan Your Galle Fort Madu River and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Private Day Tour in Colombo

Are you itching to explore the cobbled streets, UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, and other nearby highlights without worrying about transportation? Then the Galle Fort Madu River and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Private Day Tour is perfect for you. This full-day tour offers you the opportunity to visit the breathtaking Madu River wetlands and Kosgoda’s turtle sanctuary while being chauffeured around in a private air-conditioned vehicle. Here’s how to plan your tour.

Step 1: Booking

Book your Galle Fort Madu River and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Private Day Tour through Viator’s website. The tours are offered on a private basis, so your driver-guide will be able to customize your itinerary and make stops at any places of interest along the way. The tour includes hotel or Colombo airport pickup and drop-off, bottled water, and a private air-conditioned vehicle. Food and drinks, as well as gratuities, are not included.

Step 2: Meeting Point and Pickup

Your driver-guide will pick you up from your hotel in Colombo or Negombo in the morning or meet you directly at the designated meeting point. After the pickup, you’ll hop into a private air-conditioned vehicle, and embark on an adventure to explore Galle Fort and its surrounding areas.

Step 3: Explore Galle Fort

Your first stop is the cobbled streets of Galle Fort, a UNESCO-listed heritage site. It’s a walled city built in 1588 by Portuguese colonizers – exploring the fort is a delightful way to spend a few hours. The fort is alive with people, and you can experience Sri Lanka’s colonial architecture, shop for souvenirs, or sip on a cup of coffee in one of the many cafes dotting the area.

Step 4: Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda

Next, you’ll visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a conservation project that helps protect five species of endangered sea turtles. You’ll learn about the incubation and release process, see newborn turtles, and even have the opportunity to hold one if you’re lucky. It’s a great place to take pictures and learn about Sri Lanka’s turtle conservation efforts.

Step 5: Scenic Wetlands around Madu River

After Kosgoda, you’ll be driven to the breathtaking Madu River wetlands. The river is home to mangrove forests, small islands, and rare species of birds, fish, and amphibians, making it one of the most biodiverse regions in Sri Lanka. During the tour, you can visit a nearby Buddhist temple, see a cinnamon-manufacturing operation, or explore one of the many islets around the area.

Step 6: Drop-Off at Colombo Airport or Hotel

After exploring the area, your private driver-guide will drive you back to your hotel in Colombo or Negombo, or to Colombo Airport for your departure flight. This is where your tour will end.

Book Your Tour Now

The Galle Fort Madu River and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery Private Day Tour is a fantastic way to spend a day out of Colombo. With your own private driver-guide, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary, and explore the sights at your leisure. Remember to book the tour through Viator’s website and make arrangements to meet your driver-guide at the designated pickup point. Get ready to embark on a Sri Lankan adventure that you will never forget! Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colombo

Colombo is the commercial capital city of Sri Lanka, located on the west coast of the island nation. It is a bustling metropolis with a rich history, cultural diversity, and innumerable attractions. In this post, we are going to answer some common questions that tourists usually ask about Colombo.

1. What is the best time to visit Colombo?

The best time to visit Colombo is between December and March when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, note that this is the peak season, and accommodations and tours are more expensive.

2. What is the currency used in Colombo?

The currency used in Colombo is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange foreign currencies at banks, authorized money changers, or currency exchange booths.

3. Do I need a visa to visit Colombo?

Yes, you need a visa to enter Sri Lanka, including Colombo. You can apply for an ETA online, which is a short-term visa that allows you to stay up to 30 days. If you are planning to stay longer, you can apply for a long-term visa at the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in your country.

4. How do I travel around Colombo?

The easiest and most convenient way to travel around Colombo is by taxi or tuk-tuk. You can also use public transportation such as buses or trains, but they are often crowded and not very reliable. Alternatively, you can rent a car or a motorbike, but note that traffic can be chaotic and driving is on the left side of the road.

5. What are the must-see attractions in Colombo?

Colombo has many attractions that cater to all interests, including historical landmarks, museums, art galleries, parks, temples, and shopping centers. Some of the most popular attractions are:

• The National Museum of Colombo
• The Gangaramaya Temple
• The Viharamahadevi Park
• The Independence Memorial Hall
• The Galle Face Green
• The Pettah Market
• The Mount Lavinia Beach

6. Where can I shop in Colombo?

Colombo is a shopper’s paradise with a wide range of merchandise ranging from clothing, jewelry, handicrafts, and souvenirs to electronic gadgets and luxury items. Some of the most popular shopping destinations are:

• The Odel Shopping Mall
• The Majestic City Shopping Complex
• The Liberty Plaza Shopping Center
• The House of Fashion Mall
• The Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

7. What are some of the best restaurants in Colombo?

Colombo is famous for its gourmet cuisine, which reflects a diverse range of influences, including Indian, Chinese, Malay, and European. Some of the best restaurants are:

• The Ministry of Crab
• The Nihonbashi Honten
• The Gallery Cafe
• The Curry Leaf Restaurant
• The Green Cabin

8. What is the nightlife like in Colombo?

Colombo has a vibrant and energetic nightlife, with a variety of bars, clubs, and pubs catering to all tastes and styles. Some of the best places to enjoy the nightlife are:

• The Zanzi Bar
• The Floor by O!
• The Ballys Casino
• The Rhythm and Blues Pub
• The ON14 Rooftop Bar and Lounge

9. What is the dress code in Colombo?

Colombo is a cosmopolitan city with a blend of modern and traditional cultures. While there is no specific dress code, it is advisable to dress modestly and conservatively, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Women should cover their shoulders and avoid wearing short skirts or shorts.

10. Is Colombo a safe city for tourists?

Colombo is generally a safe city to visit, but tourists should take precautions to avoid any potential risks. Keep an eye on your valuables, avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas, and be wary of touts and scams. It is also advisable to take a registered taxi or a tuk-tuk and avoid traveling in unmarked vehicles.

Book Your Tour Now

Colombo is an exciting and vibrant city that offers a rich cultural, historical, and culinary experience. By following the tips and guidelines mentioned above, you can make the most of your visit to Colombo and enjoy all that the city has to offer.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo

Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that offers tourists a lot to see and do. From its colonial heritage to its modern shopping malls, there is something for everyone in Colombo. In this guide, we will take a look at how to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo.

1. Visit the Old City Hall

The Old City Hall is a magnificent example of British colonial architecture and is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Sri Lanka. The building was completed in 1929 and served as the city’s administrative center until 1978. Today, it houses the Colombo Municipal Council and is open to visitors.

2. Walk along Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a promenade that is located along the coast of the Indian Ocean. It is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax and take in the sea breeze. The green stretches for about 5 hectares and is a great place for picnics or an evening stroll.

3. Explore the National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is home to some of Sri Lanka’s finest collections of art and artifacts. The museum was established in 1877 and has a vast collection of exhibits that range from ancient relics to modern art. It is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history and culture of Sri Lanka.

4. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is one of the most important temples in Colombo and is known for its stunning architecture and peaceful atmosphere. The temple houses a museum that displays a vast collection of religious artifacts, including Buddha statues and paintings.

5. Shop at the Pettah Market

The Pettah Market is the largest and busiest market in Colombo and is a great place to find bargains on a variety of goods. From fabrics to jewelry to street food, there is something for everyone at the Pettah Market.

6. Take a stroll through Independence Square

Independence Square is a park that was built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial rule. The park is home to several monuments and statues, including a statue of Sri Lanka’s first prime minister, D.S. Senanayake.

7. Visit the Viharamahadevi Park

The Viharamahadevi Park is a public park that is located in the heart of Colombo. The park has several attractions, including a children’s play area, a water fountain, and a giant Buddha statue.

8. Enjoy the nightlife

Colombo has a vibrant nightlife scene, with many bars and nightclubs that stay open until the early hours of the morning. From live music to karaoke to dance clubs, there is something for everyone in Colombo’s nightlife scene.

9. Take a trip to the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple

The Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple is one of the most popular temples in Colombo, and is known for its elaborate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. It is a great place to learn more about Sri Lanka’s Buddhist culture and heritage.

10. Explore the Colombo Dutch Museum

The Colombo Dutch Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in the history of Sri Lanka under Dutch colonial rule. The museum has a large collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the influence of Dutch culture on Sri Lanka. In conclusion, Colombo offers tourists a lot to see and do, from its colonial heritage to its modern shopping malls. By following the tips in this guide, you can make the most of your time as a tourist in Colombo and create memories that will last a lifetime.