One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

If you’re on a Galle trip and only have 8 hours to travel,. thus, This traditional Sri Lankan excursion to the south shore is perfect for you. The day excursion to Galle from Colombo includes the most important tourist attractions, such as Galle Fort, the Madu Estuary, Hikkaduwa, and the Kande Vihara Temple.

Cost of a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

The one-day excursion to Galle from Colombo costs US$ 59 per person. If you book the Galle trip for a single person, there is one more charge, however, it is feasible. The price includes all admission fees, ground transportation (including arrival and departure transfers), and a licensed tour guide.

Two-day trip trip to Galle from Colombo

Another popular tourist excursion in Sri Lanka is a two-day trip to Galle. It is one of the most exciting activities in Sri Lanka, offering a fascinating blend of tourist attractions and activities if you can devote two days to the trip. This two-day trip to the south coast includes visits at Galle, the Galle Fort, the Spice Garden, the Moonstone Mines, the Mask Museum, the Buddhist Temple, as well as excursions to the mangrove lagoon, a whale watching cruise, and a sea turtle conservation project. At the end of Day 1, you will have the opportunity to relax during the tour’s overnight stay at a beach resort on the south coast.

Three-day tours from Colombo to Galle via the south coast

The three-day trip to southern Sri Lanka is definitely worth it because it allows you to visit the region’s most important natural, tropical, and cultural sites. The trip includes two overnight stays, as well as beach time. This three-day tour includes visits to the Galle Fort, the Spice and Herbal Garden, the Mask Museum, the Sea Turtle Conservation Project, and activities such as the Yalla Safari and the Mirissa Whale-Watching Cruise.

Can the one-day trip to Galle from Colombo be arranged through the hotel?

The 400+ beach resorts along the west coast, as well as the Galle one-day trip, Galle two-day tour, and southern Sri Lanka tour, can be all booked from Colombo. If you plan the Galle excursion from a beach resort like Negombo, the price may increase somewhat due to the additional transportation charges.

A two-day tour from Colombo to Galle with Mirissa

This 2-day trip to Southern Sri Lanka includes a number of notable tourist destinations, such as the Galle Fort, the Mask Museum, the Moonstone Mines, the Sea Turtle Conservation Center, Hikkaduwa Beach, and Mirissa Beach. Thus, the package includes an all-inclusive whale-watching tour off Mirissa. also schedule includes transfers for arrival and departure and two meals per day.

Taking a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

The city of Galle is easily accessible by train and road. Every day, multiple trains go between Colombo and Galle, several of which are fast trains. Bus travelling is also a probable with frequent departures from the fort’s main bus stop, most main cities including Kandy and Colombo nevertheless, provide air service to Galle; it is more expensive than other modes of transportation.

Demand for a trip to Galle from Colombo

A one-day excursion to Galle is a popular activity in Sri Lanka among both local and foreign tourists. This one-day excursion is especially tempting to foreign travelers in transit because it is a short drive from Colombo to the international airport. Similarly, it attracts many cruise ship tourists who anchored on the island. thus, Tourists must travel around 100 kilometres from Colombo; so, while the Galle one-day trip is billed as a day tour, it can also be completed as a half-day excursion.

What is the best route for a one-day trip to Galle from Colombo?

If you elect to go by road for your one-day excursion, you have two options: the Galle-Colombo major road and on the A1 highway. Traveling on the highway can reduce travel time by about 50%. However, taking the highway may make it impossible to visit the sights on the itinerary. If you plan on visiting Galle Fort and a few other beaches in the Galle area, use the A1 highway both ways.

We recommend taking the A2 main route because it allows quick access to many of the program’s major tourist locations, including as the Herbal Garden/Spice Garden, Mask Museum, Kande Vihara Temple, Sea Turtle Watching at the Conservation Center, etc. According to our experience, you must use the Colombo-Galle A2 route at least from Colombo to Galle, or on the return trip.

Galle can be reached more quickly by taking the southern highway, which takes around an hour. However, there will be no pauses along the way, so you will only be able to visit the tourist attractions in Galle City and not the districts between Galle and Colombo.

If you want to visit the destinations included in our Galle one-day travel itinerary, take the Galle-Colombo major road, which runs parallel to the west coast beach. As you continue along the journey, you will come across a few significant cities, and the road is in fantastic condition. The Galle-Colombo major road is easily accessible from all of the key places on this route. Our guide will frequently make stops along the way to visit interesting locations.

The schedule for a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

The time stated above may vary depending on circumstances such as traffic congestion, the amount of time required for sightseeing, and so on. This day excursion from Colombo to Sri Lanka departs at 6:00 a.m.

07:00 AM: Hotel pick-up in Colombo for a sightseeing tour of Galle.

09:00 AM: Stop at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center

09:40 AM: Madu River boat tour and mangrove forest exploration

11:45 AM: Visit the Mask Museum in Ambalangoda

12:10 PM: Moonstone Mines and Workshop

1:00 PM: Lunch in Hikkaduwa and beach excursion.

2:30 PM: One-hour self-guided walking tour of Galle Fort.

04:00 PM: Depart the Fort

05.30 PM: Back at the Colombo hotel.

The private Galle one-day tour brings you to the most popular tourist spots between Colombo and Galle, departing from Colombo or west coast beach hotels. thus, This trip includes visits to the spice garden, mask museum, Madu River Estuary, Hikkaduwa Beach, Bentota Beach, and Galle Fort.

Click here for additional information on the Galle one-day tour: Galle City Tour, Fortress, Madu River Estuary, Sri Lanka.

Two-day travel to Galle from Bentota

The Galle Day Tour departs from around 140 beach resorts along the western coast. Travelers starting their Galle trip from Kalutara, Bentota, or another beach resort on the west coast should adhere to the timeline below.

8:00 AM for a hotel pickup and Galle sightseeing tour.

09:00 AM: stop at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Center

09:40 AM: Madu River boat tour and mangrove forest exploration

11:45 AM: Exploration of the Mask Museum in Ambalangoda

12:10 PM: Moonstone Mines and Workshop at 12:10

1:00 PM: Lunch in Hikkaduwa and beach excursion.

2:30 PM: One-hour self-guided walking tour of Galle Fort.

04:00 PM: Depart the Fort

5:00 PM: Back at the Colombo hotel.

What are the main destinations on a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo?

Turtle Conservation Project
Beach at Kosgoda
Herbal Garden
Madu River Estuary (boat tour)
Island of Cinnamon
Beach in Hikkaduwa
Mining for Moonstones and Gem Lapidary
Fort Galle
(City Tour of Galle)
Mask Gallery

Useful connections

What to See on a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

The Galle one-day tour is a breathtaking journey via all of Sri Lanka’s west coast beaches in the Galle city tour thus, we’ll take you to one of the most beautiful areas on the island where you’ll have plenty of opportunities to see the region’s pristine palm-lined beaches, picturesque countryside, Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, wildlife, and mangrove forests in a short period of time, the tour’s many key tourist locations on the west coast, as well as other day-trip destinations in Galle, will become public.

Day outings in Galle

This is a comprehensive list of Galle tourist attractions. If you wish to see all of the above destinations, please contact Seerendipity Tours at seerendipitytours@gmail.com. Depending on the amount of time available, the trip to Galle from Colombo could be a one-day tour, a two-day excursion, or a three-day Sri Lanka vacation package.

Fort Dutch in Galle
Center for Weaving Lace
Sea turtle conservation initiative
Hikkaduwa marine preserve.
Safari at Madu River.
Maritime Museum of Galle
The Galle Dutch Reformed Church
The Martin Wickramasinghe Foundation is in charge of managing a folk museum.
Tea plantation at Handungoda.
Beach Jungle, Unawatuna
Galle’s Underwater Museum
Rainforest near Hiyare Reservoir
Beach Devata
Fishing for Anhangama Stilts

Before traveling to Galle from Colombo, you may be wondering what the city’s best day trip options are. After all, that is why you found this article. The best way to explore southern Sri Lanka is on a Galle sightseeing tour, which includes the colonial city that proudly sits on Sri Lanka’s southwest border. The Galle tour also includes visits to temples, museums, mangrove forests, beaches, handicraft studios, and other interesting day-trip sites in Galle.

The large city of Galle in southern Sri Lanka is easily accessible by bus or train. Visitors staying on Sri Lanka’s west coast can travel to the city of Galle in only one hour. Although there are good public transit choices, booking a cab will let you to make the most of your Galle sightseeing tour. Hiring a qualified driver or guide simplifies the process of saving time and finding the the attraction as well.

A few Sri Lanka travel packages to visit Galle

Transportation for a day trip to Galle from Colombo

On your Galle city tour, you will drive in a private car reserved exclusively for your group, thus, ensuring complete privacy. All of our air-conditioned, contemporary vehicles are driven by knowledgeable guides

What is included in the one-day excursion to Galle from Colombo?

All ground transportation is included, Thus, all admission fees and taxes as specified in the tour schedule. The lunch break will include a trip at Hikkaduwa in the island’s seafood mecca. Guests may make purchases of their choice here, but they are responsible for completing the necessary payments.

Galle City Tour

The Galle city tour is a brief program designed for individuals with limited time to explore the island. The Galle city tour is a personalized package that includes all of the major southern Sri Lankan tourist attractions. The itinerary also includes stops at historical sites like the Galle Fort and beautiful beaches like Hikkaduwa and Bentota.

Madu River Safari with One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

If you wish to go on a day trip to Galle from Colombo or other west coast resorts in Sri Lanka, a Madu river boat tour is the ideal option. The Madu River safari and the Galle excursion can be combined, and local tour operators handle all parts of the boat tour, so you don’t have to bother about transportation.

This area was designated a Ramsar Wetland in 2003 because of its ecological value. It is Sri Lanka’s second-largest wetland and was designated as such due to its importance as a wetland habitat. The marsh covers about 915 hectares and is divided into 23 islands of varying sizes, each with a population of nearly 300. The Coast Conservation Department currently oversees the River Sanctuary as a Special Area Managed (SAM) and Tourist Development Area. The ‘Madu Ganga’ is a river that passes through Balapitiya.

Galle has eight day trip options, including a boat tour on the Madu estuary. On a boat journey to the island’s most major Ramsar wetland (the Madu River estuary), visitors can witness the rich flora and fauna of Sri Lankan riverine forest. For most travelers, seeing how cinnamon peelers use traditional tools when visiting Cinnamon Island is a truly remarkable experience as there is a good chance of seeing a variety of animals and birds during the boat journey, thus, you may see crocodiles, water monitors, monkeys, and a variety of bird species.

Enjoy wonderful seafood during a one-day trip to Galle from Colombo

Each one-day tour to Galle begins in Colombo and includes a stop in Hikkaduwa, one of eight destinations that can be visited in a single day. Hikkaduwa is a few kilometers before Galle as we go from Colombo to the capital of southern Sri Lanka.

There are numerous wonderful places to visit along the 118-kilometer route. This blog article focuses on eight one-day vacation sites in Galle; these locations will be visited frequently. Hikkaduwa provides an excellent opportunity to indulge in a feast of fresh seafood and other delicacies. If the time permits, exploring corals could be added to the list of activities.

A one-day drive from Galle through southern Sri Lanka takes roughly eight hours. The voyage begins daily at 7:30 a.m. in Colombo. The price also includes transportation to the airport. The duration of each stop, which is roughly eight hours, Thus, this sought the overall length of the trip. This is a hop-on, hop-off tour that incorporates a variety of activities such as beach hopping, historical sites, wildlife viewing, and so on.

Visiting Bentota beach during a Galle day Tour from Colombo

Bentota Beach is one of Galle’s most popular day trip locations. Bentota Beach is the island’s most popular beach vacation location. Bentota Beach Resort’s unique location contributes significantly to its appeal as a beach vacation resort. The island containing the Bentota Resort is connected to the mainland at its southernmost point. The majority of Bentota consists of a narrow strip of land that runs north-south.

Bentota Beach Resort is located in a unique position surrounded by both the sea and a river, unlike the majority of other beaches on the islands. Bentota is an island bordered by the Bentota River on one side and the Indian Ocean on the other. On this small plot of land, various hotels have been built to give visitors with a peaceful vacation atmosphere. Seerendipity Tours allows you to book a hotel in Bentota at a very reasonable price online.

The top 17 attractions in Colombo and Bentota
Safari at the Bentota River
The top ten destinations in Bentota to see in a day
Whale Watching Bentota: The Blue Whale Highway of Sri Lanka
Both from Colombo and Bentota to Galle.
Day Trip From Bentota To Galle
Bentota Ayurveda Sri Lanka

Visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Project on a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

Turtle conservation facilities are a popular tourist site in Galle. These measures were launched to conserve the turtle population, which is on the point of extinction, and it has been discovered that they are extremely effective in restoring the turtle population. These conservation centres are located throughout Sri Lanka’s western and southern shores, where turtles come ashore to lay their eggs. Sri Lanka’s beaches, notably Rekawa, Bentota, Weligama, and Negombo, are home to five different species of sea turtles. Turtles can be observed anywhere from Rekawa Beach on the south coast to Negombo in the northwest of Sri Lanka.

The turtle makes a hole in the beach, lays her eggs inside, and then covers them with sand so that the sun’s heat can nurture them. However, many locals of the coastal region dig in the sand to locate the sea turtle’s hidden eggs; some eat them, while others sell them.

The kids are now put into the sea at night, giving them a better chance of survival, and the eggs are now purchased by conservation organizations and grown organically in enclosed places where birds cannot pick them up.

Visiting the spice garden on a one-day trip to Galle from Colombo

Bentota boasts a spice garden where spices and herbs are produced. The spices of Sri Lanka drew early maritime traders who traveled long distances to purchase this valuable cargo, and Sri Lankan cuisine and medicine are vital contribution to the country’s economy.

Visit the Buddhist temple during a one-day trip to Galle from Colombo

Kalutara, a well-known Buddhist city 45 kilometers south of Colombo, is a popular pilgrimage destination because of the Gangatilaka Buddhist temple. Kalutara has a rich history back to the second century BC. According to historical documents, Kalutara is one of the 32 areas specified by Rev. Mahinda to King Devanampiyatissa as needing to be developed in order to plant one of the 32 saplings of the venerated Sri Maha Bodhi tree (Bo tree, ficus religiosa) in Anuradhapura. The King granted the tree his patronage.

According to the Sinhala Maha Bodhi Wansa (chronicle), the historical Kalutara Bodhi remained intact till the Portuguese captured the Maritime Provinces in 1505 AD. This sacred site was converted into a Portuguese fort in the 16th century. The Bodhi (Bo tree) is said to have been unharmed, despite the fact that people did not venerate it.

Wickrama Pandya, a Pandyan dating king, planted the Bo tree there in 1042 A.D., and the Kalutara temple quickly acquired renown. The Bo tree is still standing on the bottom terrace. Every day, a large number of Buddhist devotees gather around the Bo tree to honor the renowned tree. Kalutara Temple, a respected Buddhist temple, demands visitors to follow its rules and regulations, including its dress code.

The current top terrace, also known as the UDA Maluwa district, was originally used as a camp by the Portuguese, then the Dutch, and finally by the British. It operated as an office and the home of the government agent throughout the British era, which began in the late nineteenth century.

Visit Hikkaduwa Beach on a one-day tour to Galle from Colombo

Hikkaduwa is a renowned beach holiday destination along Sri Lanka’s west coast. Diving, snorkeling, boating, and surfing are just a few of the exciting activities offered in Hikkaduwa, which is known as one of the best places for water sports in the Sri Lanka’s biggest travel season, which spans from November to April, a large number of travelers visit for recreational purposes. Tourists planning a day trip to Galle from Colombo may make a brief stop here to take a glass-bottom boat tour and see unique fish species in the Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary.

Galle Harbour

Galle Harbour, one of Sri Lanka’s major seaports, was a significant stop along the Silk Road. A group of Portuguese sailors who had become shipwrecked in a storm inadvertently landed in Galle Harbor. On board the ship were Lorenzo De Almeida and a large number of other sailors came to the agreement of the Sri Lankan king as they constructed a small defense. Later, the British and Dutch administrations used the same harbour for imports and exports.

What is Galle Fort?

The fort, known as Galle, is located on the western side of Galle City and overlooks the Indian Ocean. It is located between Galle City and the ocean. The Galle Fort was built in the 15th century when the Portuguese arrived. The Portuguese built a fort at Galle’s port and took control of the surrounding waters. After taking possession of Galle Fort from the Portuguese authority in 1505, the East India Company established one of its import and export offices there, thereby controlling the spice trade in southern Asia for the following 150 years.

Galle Fort History

The Dutch East Indian Company handled the fort’s building and development after the Portuguese handed it over in 1505. The fort is now in great shape and has been classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Fort was one of Southern Asia’s most well-known medieval urban centers.

The fort is Galle’s most popular tourist destination. Most tourists enjoy walking through the cobblestoned, crowded streets and overhanging galleries. This also indicates a journey back in time and a bygone era.

A tall granite wall separates the Dutch-designed Fort from the outside world. The Portuguese laid the groundwork for the Fort in the early fifteenth century. However, the Dutch East India Company expanded the fort and transformed it into a significant metropolis. It was consequently chosen as the administrative center of southern Sri Lanka.

importance of Galle Fort

One of the most important places to see on this voyage is the Galle Fort, which may be the trip’s most crucial high point. For many decades, the Galle Fort has been an essential and crucial part of Galle. Galle Fort is a popular tourist site along the entire southern coastline. The original Portuguese-built structures of Galle Fort are no longer visible. Dutch constructions largely took the place of Portuguese buildings.

Authenticities of Galle Fort

Galle Fort is now regarded as a component of Sri Lankan history and is designated as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. The Fort is comprised of 15th-century Dutch-style palaces as well as various smaller structures such as galleries, stores, and museums.

The Fort is a vibrant part of Galle City’s cultural tradition. There are numerous tourist attractions surrounding Galle Fort, including a fish market, seafood restaurants, village bazaars, museums, galleries, and shops. Numerous stores offer both traditional and innovative crafts.

Over the last few centuries, The Fort has evolved into a confined metropolis with many diverse cultures and religions. The Sri Lankan government is considering designating this one of the world’s modern wonders, together with numerous Dutch people who still own some of the fort’s residences.

A UNESCO site for the Galle Fort

The fort’s unique legacy as “an urban ensemble,” which exhibits the interaction of European architectural with South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th century, has resulted in its designation as cultural heritage (UNESCO World Heritage Site) under criterion IV.

The Galle Fort, also known as the Dutch Fort, withstood the 2004 tsunami, which wiped out much of the city and killed thousands. The Fort’s high-rise defensive wall helped to mitigate the impact of the massive waves, which severely damaged the coastline area. Since then, it has been repaired

Travelers frequently have an hour or so of spare time to tour the Historic District. A leisurely stroll through the maze-like cobblestone, tiny streets, which are lined with shops, cafés, galleries, museums, churches, and hotels, is the best way to view the city.

The tiny lanes that wind around the fort are lined with old Dutch-style dwellings; the bulk of these homes have been converted into elegant boutique hotels and are now occupied by international tourists.

What are the six finest spots to see in Galle Fort?

Reformed Dutch Church
Seaport Museum
Fort Rampart in Galle
The Dutch jail features a clock tower.
Lighthouse
Gallery and Retail

Lace Weaving Tradition

The art of lace weaving is a colonial legacy of Galle women, and lace is a local fabric. A well designed blouse could take up to six months to produce. This is a locally specialized method of producing clothing that has been passed down through generations. A vast selection of wooden masks, carvings, animal sculptures, and other objects are available for purchase. Visit one of the fort’s textile boutiques to find something modern with a Sri Lankan twist; they all carry current fashion trends.

Visit Unawatuna Beach during a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

Unawatuna Beach is located just south of Galle, Sri Lanka’s largest city, and 125 km from Colombo, the country’s capital. Unawatuna Bay in southern Sri Lanka is one of the world’s best beaches, offering safe swimming throughout the year. The bay’s reputation as a safe swimming spot is primarily due to a coral reef that prevents the underwater current from accessing the bay.

This beach is ideal for people who want to enjoy the serenity of the sea and dive deep into the azure waters. Other popular beach activities include surfing, diving, swimming, and snorkeling. A snorkeling base may be found within its reach on an accessible, generally well-preserved coral reef.

Hikkaduwa Day Trip with Galle

Hikkaduwa is a popular tourist destination in southern Sri Lanka. It is located 98 kilometres south of Colombo, and the town’s gorgeous beaches add to its allure. It is the spot where you may get a glimpse of the fascinating underwater environment and the species that live at incomprehensible ocean depths.

Hikkaduwa is a famous beach holiday resort as well as a great place to dive and surf on the island. A glass-bottom boat rental allows you to see the spectacular corals without getting wet at the Hikkaduwa marine sanctuary, which is only a few meters from the beach and home to many unique aquatic creatures.

Visiting the Maritime Museum during a trip to Galle from Colombo

Galle, a city in southern Sri Lanka, houses Asia’s finest marine museum. The museum is housed in the colonial city’s Dutch storage facilities, built in 1676. The modern museum, which opened in 2008, is housed in four large rooms of the 40,000-square-foot Dutch storeroom.

The museum houses a substantial collection of important archeological relics. High-value objects were discovered on the seafloor off the coast of Galle. Sri Lanka was a popular port of call in the area, and the island’s waters are riddled with shipwrecks.

One of the museum’s most notable exhibits is a diorama of former Hambantota residents. They are considered to have existed approximately 7,000 years ago. A multilingual stone inscription in Chinese, Tamil, and Persian is another valuable artifact. It is claimed to have been written in China 600 years ago and brought to the island later.

It also exhibits the nation’s fishing skills, equipment, and boats. The things on display include ship ropes, antique canons, porcelain objects, smoking pipes, maps, and shipwrecks. The model of the ship Avondster (evening star), which sank in Galle’s harbour, is a valuable piece of museum property. Visitors to the museum can examine a facsimile of the ship as well as artifacts discovered on it. The ship sank in 1659 A.D..

As part of the endeavor to preserve the Galle World Heritage Site, the Central Cultural Fund of Sri Lanka established the Galle Maritime Museum. The museum depicts the religious and cultural aspects of the people of southern Sri Lanka. It depicts how Sri Lankan culture, trade, language, and customs have blended with those of other countries.

Functions of the Maritime Museum

The museum’s aim includes educating the public about the sea’s fragile marine ecology. It showcases a diverse range of marine life, including as fish, corals, seagrass, and algae. The causes of coastal erosion and marine pollution are evident, as are the precautions that must be taken to mitigate the damage.

Visitors interested in seeing how historical relics are preserved can visit the archeological museum’s laboratory. It provides a unique opportunity to have real expertise conserving things in a lab. The items have historical significance dating back to 8000 B.C. up until the current millenium.

Visiting the Dutch Reformed Church on a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

The Dutch Reformed Church, nestled within the Galle Fort and dating back over two centuries, is a popular tourist destination in Galle, Sri Lanka. The Dutch Reformed Church, with its unique architecture and rich history, is a must-see among the city’s historical attractions.

This old church is proudly owned by the Fort of Galle, Sri Lanka, which is located on a strip of land that has been dipped into the Indian Ocean on one side. The fort, which boasts a commanding view of the entire city, is located at the highest point.

The church is located near to the Galle Maritime Museum at the fort’s southernmost tip. It offers stunning views of the Indian Ocean and Galle’s ancient harbour. On Sundays, some families who practice this faith go to church to hear the weekly sermon. They give homage in front of the precious, almost 200-year-old spiritual artifacts that hang on the wall. The Dutch East Indian Company built the chapel. This is one of the nation’s oldest active Protestant churches.

The church’s history stretches back to Dutch colonization. The Wolvendaal church is another place of worship in Colombo that practices the same religion. These are two of the island’s oldest churches.

The Dutch Reformed Church is built in the manner of traditional Dutch architecture. During the Dutch era in Sri Lanka, the church attracted a large number of believers for many years. However, the number of believers in the faith has declined dramatically since the Dutch colonial control over the island ended. Only a few families still practice this faith today.

The Dutch Reformed Church in Galle Fort is a renowned tourist destination. UNESCO has declared the Galle Fort, one of the city’s most historic sites, as a World Heritage Site. While the Church receives very few local visits these days, it welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. There are probably larger churches in the city than the Dutch Reformed Church, which is not particularly vast inside. The gravestones of former Dutch East India Company personnel are one of the church’s most notable features. A significant chunk of the floor is built on hundreds of gravestones.

With its old-style building and antique furnishings, the church exudes a retro vibe. Chairs and other furniture are made from valuable hardwoods such as ebony. The majority of the woodwork and furniture date from the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. The church’s furniture collection is a unique and valuable treasure.

The church is a protected archeological site on the island, managed by the archaeological department. The Dutch Reformed Church of Galle is among the country’s oldest Protestant churches. The church has many feet-thick walls and is built in the conventional Doric architecture of the time, shaped like a Greek cross. The transepts include a central dome and brick barrel arches for roofs.

Visiting Martin Wikramasinghe Museum on a one-day trip to Galle from Colombo

The Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum is a must-see in Galle since it is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist spots and allows tourists to learn about the city’s rich history. You may see typical archaic agriculture, fishing, and hunting practices, as well as many other cottage industries. The museum displays a huge collection of “Thirikkala” bullock carts, which were once the principal source of transportation in southern Sri Lanka.

Drive to the Handungoda Tea Factory with Galle Day Tours

Handungoda Tea Farm is a great day trip destination in Galle for tea aficionados. Ask your tour operators to put the Handungoda tea factory on the itinerary, as it is commonly overlooked in most Galle day trips.

On your day trip from Galle, the Handungoda Tea Factory offers an excellent opportunity to explore a tea factory and plantation. In contrast to the norm, visitors from beach hotels in Galle and the southern coast may now watch how Sri Lankan tea is made thanks to the Handugoda tea factory. Normally, witnessing a tea factory requires a trip to the countryside.

In addition to tea, the Handgugoda Tea Plantation produces several other key commercial agricultural goods, such as coconut, cinnamon, and rubber. Visitors can also visit a tea museum, which displays equipment used on the island when Sri Lanka’s tea business initially began. Some of these technologies date back over a century.

The 40-minute drive from Galle to the Handungoda tea factory is especially interesting because it takes you through beautiful scenery and countryside that is filled with trees and plants.

You can discover more about the various types of tea, such as BOPF, BOP, and OP, by visiting the Handungoda tea factory as part of your Galle Day Tours. Only a few tea manufacturers produce “Saphire Oolong Tea,” a highly unusual tea variety, at the Handungoda tea factory.

Day tour to Galle from Colombo with beach

All-day cruises from Galle include visits to the beautiful beaches along the south coast. Sri Lanka’s southern and western coasts are home to a plethora of stunning beaches. Day outings from Galle include visits to beaches at Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Galle, and Unawatuna. These beaches are among the best in Sri Lanka for beach holidays since they are very clean and suitable for them. Every year, tourists flock to these beaches, especially between November and April, when the northwest monsoon is at its peak.

Jungle Beach Tour

Unawatuna is located near to Forest Beach, a peaceful beach. There aren’t many people here because it’s a very unpopular day trip destination in Galle. This is an excellent location for getting away from the crowds. It is a portion of Unawatuna Beach’s “jungle beach.” One of Galle’s most secluded beaches for sun and sea baths is this palm-lined beach.

Although rainforest beaches are not included in Galle day tours, it is recommended that you visit if you have the time. The best beaches for swimming and tanning are those with shallow seas and clear visibility. Jungle Beach is located about 3 km off the main road, in steep terrain. To reach the beaches, you must first descend a very steep mountain.

Visit a Japanese Peace Pagoda

On a nearby hill, there is a Japanese peace pagoda that is part of the jungle beach. The majority of people who join Galle day trips choose to explore the rainforest beach on their own, as well as this coastal temple with a spectacular sea view. Even though it is not as historically significant as the majority of the island’s Buddhist temples. It has a wholly unique style that is closely tied to Mahayana Buddhism. The temple provides a one-of-a-kind experience for both locals and visitors from other places. The resident Japanese priest at the temple is overjoyed to meet you and take you around.

Exploring the underwater museum in Galle

The Underwater Museum of Galle, located approximately 15 meters underwater, is the most recent addition to Galle’s list of attractions. Contrary to what the name suggests, it is not a museum, but rather a collection of sculptures immersed in the ocean. The exhibitions, which are spanking new and built using modern materials such as cement, have no historical or cultural importance. To enter the underwater museum, visitors must wear a diving suit.

The concept of an underwater museum has existed in many forms for a long time, such as Baiae in Italy, which houses several rare artifacts of extraordinary historical and aesthetic significance. However, Galle houses the island’s first museum of this kind.

The Sri Lanka Navy was in charge of overseeing the entire underwater museum project. It is intended to serve two purposes: first, as a tourist attraction, and second, to help build an ecosystem that is beneficial to coral and fish species.

Exploring Hiyare Forest Reserve on a Trip to Galle from Colombo

The Hiyare jungle is one of the most gorgeous rainforest places in Sri Lanka’s southern region. However, Hiyare has long been a secluded and underutilized off-the-beaten-path tourism resort in Sri Lanka. The rainforest is around 18 kilometers (or a half-hour drive) from Galle, the southern province’s principal city.

Galle is a popular tourist destination in Sri Lanka because of the numerous tourist attractions in and around the city, as listed above. Despite the Hiyare rainforest’s biological significance, few people travel the few kilometers to see it. The Kottawa rainforest reserve reaches into the Hiyare forest. Scientifically, the rainforest surrounds the Hiyare reservoir, a man-made lake that was originally built to supply water to Galle City.

The rain forest and reservoir are easily accessible from the most popular destinations, including Galle Fort, the south coast beach, the west coast beach, and Colombo, thanks to the well-connectedness of nearby towns. Hiyare Rain Forest is home to a diverse range of plants and fauna, some of which are endemic to the island. However, Hiyare Rain Forest is most renowned as one of the best places for bird watching.

Visiting Devata Beach during a one-day journey to Galle from Colombo

The Dutch government built the Galle Fort, which is one of the best-preserved medieval towns in the world. The Dutch and British governments have both periodically upgraded the Galle Fort since its construction in 1505. In addition to the Galle Fort, Galle is well-known for having some of the best beaches for seaside vacations. The lovely palm-lined beaches of Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, and Devata are all close to Galle. For surfers and divers, the bulk of these beaches offer some of the best sites on the island. The Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary is a popular snorkeling destination. Devata Beach, located south of Galle, is not particularly well-known for diving or snorkeling. However, it also has an abundance of coral reefs, an incredible variety of exotic fish species, and sea turtles, which are the most visible features just a few meters from the beach.

Devata Beach is located immediately south of Galle Fort, a well-known and picturesque city near Sri Lanka’s south coast. Devata Beach is sometimes overlooked on Galle day trips due to the short travel time. It is much more difficult to visit Devita Beach because Galle day trips from Colombo require a lot of travel. However, if you start your Galle Day excursions from West Coat Beach Resort, you may have time to visit Devata Beach and enjoy the beautiful beaches.

Ahangama Stitt Fishing with a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

Galle day trips provide a rare opportunity to witness stilt fishing, one of the oddest fishing techniques in the world. Stilt fishing, also known as Ritipanna in the local language, is a unique style of fishing found only in Sri Lanka. The fisherman on Sri Lanka’s south coast invented this age-old, traditional method of fishing. Many beaches, including Ahangama, Weligama, Narigama, Koggala, Welipenna, Kathaluwa, and Thalarambe, are easily accessible during the gale and are well-known for this type of fishing. This method of fishing involves connecting a small pole to a stick that is fastened to the ocean floor. People who fish spend several hours seated on the pole with this stick, hoping to catch some fish. To take advantage of this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness stilt fishermen, schedule your holiday to Galle around them.

Why Book a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo with Seerendipity Tours?

Seerendipity Tour, headquartered in Colombo, is a 100% locally owned travel company. One of Seerendipity Tours’ main benefits is its highly skilled local crew, which can plan your perfect trip to Sri Lanka.

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When you use our service to book a tour, there are no intermediaries involved, so you can be confident you’re receiving the best rate available. Simply contact us and let us know about your travel plans and favorite spots.

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Our team produces a personalized program specifically for you, which you can alter until you discover the best offer. You can also look through our pre-made tour packages for inspiration; all of our trip packages are adjustable and can be tailored to meet all of your requirements. Contact us by email at admin@seerendipitytours.com or phone at 0094-77-440977 or 0094-77-4440977.

Table of Contents

Exploring the west coast beaches during a day trip to Galle from Colombo.

Demand for a One-Day Trip to Galle from Colombo

Why does Galle appear so frequently on trip itineraries?