How to Plan Your Safari Day Trip to Yala & Udawalawe from Galle/Mirissa with Picnic

Looking for an adventure among nature in Sri Lanka? Join this exciting day trip from Galle/Mirissa and discover both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks in one day! You’ll have the opportunity to spot many different animal species, including leopards, elephants, water buffalo, and jackals. Our private guide will help you with everything you need and make your trip unforgettable. Here’s everything you need to know.

Highlights

• See both Yala and Udawalawe National Parks in one day
• Experience sunrise and sunset surrounded by magnificent wildlife
• Spot leopards, elephants, water buffalo, jackals, and many other animals
• Stay cool and comfortable in an air-conditioned vehicle

Itinerary

The tour starts with a pickup from your accommodation in Galle, Unawatuna, Weligama or Mirissa areas. From there, you will relax on your drive to the Yala National Park. This park is home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species, offering a magnificent range of wildlife. The “Golden Hours” of the day are sunrise and sunset, and you will enjoy the sunrise at the park. After meeting with your private guide, you’ll climb into a sturdy 4×4 vehicle and start exploring the different habitats such as light forests, scrubs, grasslands, and lagoons. Following the safari, you will be treated to a delicious picnic lunch before you begin your journey to Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. During feeding hours, you will have the chance to take a closer look at hundreds of wild elephant babies. After enjoying the Elephant Transit Home, you will be driven back to your accommodation.

Useful Information

• The tour duration is approximately 12 hours
• Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for a safari
• Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hat, camera, binoculars, and insect repellent
• Children must be accompanied by an adult
• Please inform us in advance if you have any food allergies or restrictions

Book Your Tour

If you are ready to explore the magnificent Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, book your tour here. Our private guide will help you throughout the day and provide you with all the information you need. Get ready for an unforgettable experience!

Galle City FAQs

Galle is a beautiful coastal city located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka. It is a major tourist destination in the country, known for its natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and historical landmarks. If you are planning a trip to Galle, this FAQ will surely assist you with all your questions.

1. Where is Galle located?

Galle is located in the southwestern part of Sri Lanka, approximately 116 km south of Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka. It is situated on the coastal strip of the Indian Ocean and bordered by the districts of Matara, Hambantota, and Kalutara.

2. How can I reach Galle?

Galle is easily accessible by road and rail. The nearest airport is Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo. From there, you can take a taxi or a bus to Galle. If you are traveling by train, the coastal railway line runs from Colombo to Galle, and it is a scenic train ride with beautiful views of the Indian Ocean.

3. What are the top tourist attractions in Galle?

Some of the top tourist attractions in Galle include:

• Galle Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage site and the largest remaining fortress in Asia
• Dutch Reformed Church – a beautiful colonial church
• National Maritime Museum – a museum with exhibits on Sri Lanka’s maritime history
• Rumassala – a beautiful nature reserve with a jungle, beach, and a Buddhist temple
• Japanese Peace Pagoda – a beautiful Buddhist temple with stunning views of the coastline

4. What is the best time to visit Galle?

The best time to visit Galle is between December and April, when the weather is dry and sunny. The monsoon season starts around May and lasts until September, during which heavy rainfall and strong winds can sometimes disrupt travel plans.

5. What are the accommodation options in Galle?

Galle offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels and resorts to budget-friendly guesthouses and hostels, there is something for everyone. Some of the popular accommodation options in Galle include:

• Amangalla
• Fort Bazaar
• Jetwing Lighthouse
• The Fort Printers
• Le Grand Galle by Asia Leisure

6. What are the best beaches in Galle?

Galle is known for its beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters and soft sandy shores. Some of the best beaches in Galle are:

• Unawatuna Beach
• Jungle Beach
• Dalawella Beach
• Wijaya Beach
• Koggala Beach

7. What are the popular activities to do in Galle?

There are many fun things to do in Galle. Some of the popular activities include:

• Explore the Galle Fort
• Visit the local markets
• Take a boat ride on the Madu River
• Go whale watching in Mirissa
• Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Indian Ocean

8. What is the currency in Galle?

The currency used in Galle is Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange your currency at the airport or at a bank in Galle. Most hotels and restaurants accept credit cards as well.

9. What are the local cuisines in Galle?

Galle is known for its rich and flavorful cuisine. Some of the popular local dishes are:

• Rice and curry – a mixture of vegetables, meat or fish served with rice
• Hoppers – a type of pancake made with rice flour and coconut milk
• Kottu roti – a spicy dish with shredded roti, vegetables, and meat or fish
• Seafood – a variety of fresh fish, crab, and prawns cooked in various styles

10. Is it safe to travel to Galle?

Yes, Galle is a safe destination for travelers. However, like any other tourist destination, petty theft and scams can occur. It is recommended to be aware of your surroundings and take necessary precautions to avoid any unpleasant situations. In conclusion, Galle is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. Hopefully, this FAQ has answered all your questions about Galle and will assist you in planning your trip.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Galle

Galle is a beautiful coastal town in Sri Lanka that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has a lot to offer to tourists from all over the world. If you are planning to visit Galle and wondering how to spend your time as a tourist, then you have come to the right place. In this guide, we will explore some of the best things to do and see in Galle.

1. Explore the Galle Fort

The Galle Fort is the most famous attraction in the city and a must-visit for all tourists. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch. It is one of the best-preserved colonial-era forts in Asia and has a unique blend of European and Sri Lankan architecture. You can start your tour of the fort from the Galle Lighthouse, which is located at the southern tip of the fort. From here, you can walk along the walls of the fort and explore its many alleys and streets. The fort has a vibrant atmosphere with many shops, restaurants, and cafes.

2. Visit the National Maritime Museum

The National Maritime Museum is located inside the Galle Fort and is a great place to learn about Sri Lanka’s maritime history. The museum has a collection of artifacts, including maps, ship models, and memorabilia related to maritime activities in Sri Lanka. The museum is open every day from 9 am to 5 pm.

3. Take a Stroll on the Unawatuna Beach

Unawatuna is a beautiful beach located just a few kilometers away from Galle. It has white sand, crystal clear water, and many restaurants and cafes. You can take a leisurely walk on the beach, enjoy the sunset, or even try some water sports such as snorkeling and diving.

4. Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Japanese Peace Pagoda is a unique attraction located about 5 km from the Galle Fort. It was built by the Japanese in 2004 to promote peace and harmony. The pagoda has stunning views of the Indian Ocean and is a great place to meditate and relax.

5. Explore the Jungle Beach

The Jungle Beach is a secluded and beautiful beach located in the Rumassala area, just a few kilometers from the Galle Fort. It is surrounded by lush green forests and has crystal clear water. You can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, or just relax on the beach.

6. Visit the Rumassala Temple

The Rumassala Temple is an ancient temple located in the Rumassala area. It is a popular pilgrimage site and has many interesting stories associated with it. According to legend, this is the place where Hanuman, the monkey god in the Hindu epic Ramayana, found the Sanjivani herb to save Lord Rama’s brother Lakshmana.

7. Take a Ride on the Koggala Lake

Koggala Lake is a beautiful lake located just a few kilometers away from Galle. You can take a boat ride on the lake and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding area. The lake is also home to many exotic birds and aquatic life.

8. Visit the Martin Wickramasinghe Museum

The Martin Wickramasinghe Museum is located in the Koggala area and is the former home of Martin Wickramasinghe, a famous Sri Lankan writer. The museum has a collection of artifacts related to Sri Lankan art, culture, and history. It also has a library with many rare books.

9. Try Some Sri Lankan Cuisine

Sri Lankan cuisine is a unique blend of spicy and flavorful dishes. You can try some of the local delicacies such as rice and curry, hoppers, and kottu. There are many restaurants and cafes in Galle that offer authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

10. Take a Day Trip to Kandy

Kandy is a beautiful city located about 4 hours away from Galle. It is home to the famous Temple of the Tooth and many other attractions. You can take a day trip to Kandy and explore the city’s rich history and culture.

Book Your Tour Now

Galle is a beautiful city that has something to offer to everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, or natural beauty, Galle has it all. We hope this guide has helped you plan your trip to Galle and make the most of your time as a tourist. Remember to explore the city at your own pace and enjoy the unique experiences it has to offer.