How to Plan Your Galle One Day Tour from Kalutara
If you’re staying in Kalutara and looking for a great day trip, the Galle One Day Tour is a top choice. This tour provides an in-depth introduction to the stunning colonial-built coastal city of Galle on this attraction-packed one-day tour. With highlights including the iconic Dutch Fort, a safari cruise along the river, and stops in the palm-fringed beaches of Unawatuna and Roomassala Jungle, this tour offers a mix of natural and historical attractions. In addition, you’ll have access to a local tour guide who can fill you in on the rich history of each of these locations. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you plan your Galle One Day Tour from Kalutara:Step 1: Book Your Tour
First, you’ll need to book your tour in advance. You can book online through Viator, which offers a hassle-free experience. The tour costs $52 per person, and you’ll need to make your payment via credit card. The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, entrance fees, and lunch, so there are no hidden costs to worry about. Book the tour here.Step 2: Plan Your Day
The tour will start early in the morning at 7:00 AM, so make sure to set your alarm clock to avoid being late. You’ll be picked up from your hotel in Kalutara, so don’t worry about transportation. Once you get on the tour bus, you can sit back and relax while listening to your tour guide’s introduction to the tour and the places you’ll visit.Step 3: Visit the Local Turtle Hatchery
Your first stop will be at a local turtle hatchery. Here, you’ll learn about the conservation efforts of the hatchery and get a chance to see baby turtles up close. You’ll also have the opportunity to release them back into the ocean, which is a special experience you won’t forget.Step 4: Experience the Roomassala Jungle
Next, you’ll drive to the Roomassala Jungle, which is home to a diverse range of flora and fauna. You’ll have the opportunity to take a guided walk through the jungle, learning about the diverse plant and animal life found here. Remember to bring comfortable shoes and insect repellent!Step 5: Enjoy a Safari Cruise on the Madu River
After exploring the jungle, you’ll take a boat safari along the Madu River. This will give you a chance to see exotic birds, mangroves, and other wildlife up close. You’ll also get a glimpse of local fisherman and their fishing techniques.Step 6: Relax at the Unawatuna Beach
After the safari cruise, you’ll head to the Unawatuna Beach, which is known for its palm-fringed beauty. Here, you can relax on the beach, swim in the ocean, or take a stroll along the sandy shore. Be sure to bring a change of clothes, and don’t forget your sunscreen!Step 7: Explore the Iconic Dutch Fort
Your final stop will be at the Galle Dutch Fort, which was built during the 17th century by the Dutch colonialists. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the ramparts, lighthouse, and other historical monuments. You’ll also have the chance to visit local shops and boutiques if you’re interested in souvenir shopping.Step 8: Return to Kalutara
After exploring the fort, you’ll head back to your bus for the return trip to your hotel in Kalutara. You’ll arrive back in the late afternoon or early evening (depending on traffic), which gives you plenty of time to rest and relax after a fun-filled day.Book Your Tour Now
Overall, the Galle One Day Tour is a fantastic way to explore the beautiful coastal city of Galle. With its mix of natural and historical attractions, this tour offers something for everyone. And with Viator handling the logistics, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the tour without worrying about a thing. So don’t wait – book your Galle One Day Tour from Kalutara today!
Frequently Asked Questions About Kalutara
Are you planning a visit to Kalutara, Sri Lanka? To help you make the most out of your trip, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about Kalutara. From the best time to visit to must-visit attractions, here’s everything you need to know.1. What is Kalutara?
Kalutara is a coastal town located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It lies about 40 kilometers south of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. The Kalutara district is also home to several other towns and villages, including Wadduwa, Beruwala, and Aluthgama.2. When is the best time to visit Kalutara?
The best time to visit Kalutara is during the months of December to March when the weather is dry and pleasant. The average temperature during this time is around 27°C. However, if you’re looking to enjoy the beach activities, then the months of April to September are ideal as the sea is calmer and the weather is warm.3. What are the must-visit attractions in Kalutara?
Kalutara is home to several beautiful attractions, including:a. Kalutara Bodhiya
Kalutara Bodhiya is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. The site is home to a 2,500-year-old Bodhi tree, which is said to have grown from a branch of the original Bodhi tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.b. Richmond Castle
Richmond Castle is a beautifully restored mansion built during the colonial period. This beautiful mansion is filled with intricate details and designed in a mix of Sri Lankan and European architecture.c. Kalutara Beach
Kalutara Beach is a beautiful and serene beach in Sri Lanka, with crystal clear waters and golden sand. It boasts of a calm and peaceful atmosphere which makes it perfect for relaxing and unwinding.d. Brief Garden
Brief Garden is a beautifully maintained garden that was once the home of Bevis Bawa, a well-known Sri Lankan artist. The garden is designed in a tropical style, with several ponds, sculptures, and hidden paths that lead to secret gardens.e. Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple
Asokaramaya Buddhist Temple is another must-visit site in Kalutara. The temple is famous for its beautiful murals, sculptures, and the large Buddha statue, which is said to be the second-tallest Buddha statue in Sri Lanka.4. What is the local cuisine in Kalutara?
Kalutara, like many places in Sri Lanka, is famous for its delicious cuisine. Some of the local dishes that you must try when in Kalutara include:- Kottu Roti – shredded roti stir-fried with vegetables, meat, and spices.
- Hoppers – a type of pancake made from rice flour and coconut milk.
- String Hoppers – thin noodles made from rice flour.
- Rice and Curry – the most common Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with several curries and sides.
- Lamprais – a dish of rice, meat, and spices wrapped in banana leaves and steamed.
5. What activities are there to do in Kalutara?
Kalutara offers a wide range of activities for tourists to enjoy. Some of the activities that you can indulge in include:- Beach activities such as swimming, surfing, and snorkeling.
- Visit the local markets and shops to shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts.
- Take a boat ride and explore the beautiful mangrove forests.
- Visit local temples and learn about the unique Sri Lankan culture and traditions.
- Explore the beautiful countryside and discover hidden gems such as waterfalls and hiking trails.
6. How can I get to Kalutara?
Kalutara is easily accessible by road and train. If you’re traveling from Colombo, it takes approximately 1 hour to reach Kalutara by car. Alternatively, you can take the train from Colombo to Kalutara, which takes approximately 2 hours. There are also several bus routes that connect Kalutara to other cities and towns in Sri Lanka.
How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Kalutara
Are you looking for a relaxing and authentic Sri Lankan holiday experience? Then Kalutara might be the perfect destination for you. Located on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka, Kalutara offers a diverse range of activities, from visiting historic temples to enjoying beautiful beaches. In this guide, we’ll list the top things to do in Kalutara and give you some tips on how to get the most out of your trip.1. Visit the Kalutara Temple
One of the most popular tourist destinations in Kalutara is the Kalutara Temple, also known as the Gangatilaka Vihara. This beautiful Buddhist temple sits on a narrow strip of land between the Kalu Ganga River and the Indian Ocean. It’s a must-visit destination to admire the beautiful paintings and carvings, and to learn about the history of Sri Lankan Buddhism. You can take a tuk-tuk or taxi to reach the temple from the city center, and the entrance fee is around $2 USD.2. Go to the Beach
Kalutara has a beautiful coastline with numerous beaches to choose from. If you’re looking for a quiet and secluded beach, head to Waskaduwa beach. It’s a beautiful golden sand beach with a few restaurants and bars nearby. If you prefer a more lively atmosphere, head to the famous Bentota beach. It’s one of the busiest beaches in Sri Lanka with lots of water sports activities, restaurants, and bars.3. Visit the Richmond Castle
The Richmond Castle is a Victorian-style mansion built by a wealthy landowner during the British colonial era. The castle has magnificent architecture and beautiful gardens, which make it a popular tourist destination. It’s located about 5 km from the Kalutara city center, and the entrance fee is around $4 USD.4. Take a Boat Tour
One of the most popular activities in Kalutara is taking a boat tour on the Kalu Ganga River. You can catch a boat from the Kalutara Bridge or arrange a tour with one of the local guides. The boat tour will take you through the mangrove forests, and you’ll get a chance to spot some unique bird species, monkeys, and crocodiles.5. Shop at the Local Market
Kalutara has a bustling local market where you can buy fresh fruits, veggies, spices, and handcrafted souvenirs. It’s an excellent opportunity to experience the local culture and try some fresh Sri Lankan delicacies.6. Visit the Brief Garden
Brief Garden is a unique and beautiful garden located about 10 km from Kalutara. It’s a beautiful place to relax and admire the stunning landscape and sculptures created by Bevis Bawa, the brother of the famous Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. The garden is open to the public, and the entrance fee is around $4 USD.7. Take a Day Trip to Colombo
If you’re looking for more adventure, take a day trip to the bustling capital city of Colombo, located about 55 km north of Kalutara. You can easily catch a train or hire a taxi to reach the city, where you can explore the colonial architecture, shop at the local markets, and indulge in some Sri Lankan street food.Book Your Tour Now
Kalutara is a beautiful place to experience the authentic Sri Lankan culture, relax on the stunning beaches, and visit the historic monuments. In summary, these are the top things to do as a tourist in Kalutara:- Visit the Kalutara Temple
- Go to the Beach
- Visit the Richmond Castle
- Take a Boat Tour
- Shop at the Local Market
- Visit the Brief Garden
- Take a Day Trip to Colombo
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