How to Plan Your Galle One Day Tour in Kalutara

If you’re traveling to Kalutara, you won’t want to miss the chance to explore the stunning coastal city of Galle. With its vast history and charming colonial architecture, it’s an attraction-packed day trip that’s well worth making time for. To make the most of your Galle day tour, we’ve put together our top tips for planning your adventure.

Overview

A full-day Galle guided tour is a perfect opportunity to explore and learn more about the city’s rich history and cultural diversity. The tour promises a mix of natural and historical attractions, including a local turtle hatchery and a safari cruise along the river.

What’s Included

The Galle one-day tour is an all-inclusive package that covers the following:

• Local taxes
• Driver/guide
• Local guide
• Food and drinks
• Lunch
• Souvenir photos (available to purchase)

Meeting and Pickup

The Galle one-day tour starts early, with a 7:00 AM departure from your hotel in Kalutara. The package includes round-trip transfers, so you don’t need to worry about getting to the meeting point on your own.

Pickup Details

• Location Name: Your Hotel at Kalutara Area
• Return Location: Returns to the original departure point

What to Expect

The Galle one-day tour is packed with exciting sights and experiences. Here are just a few things to look forward to:

Dutch Fort

You’ll start your tour at the iconic Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood since the early 16th century. The fort is situated close to the entrance of the harbor, offering a stunning view of the ocean from its ramparts.

Local Sites of Interest

The guided tour guarantees an escape from the typical tourist track and a visit to several local sites of interest, from temples to markets. You’ll learn about the history and culture of the region as you explore off-the-beaten-track attractions that you might not have found on your own.

Unawatuna and Roomassala Jungle

You’ll make stops at the palm-fringed beaches of Unawatuna and the Roomassala Jungle, two of the most picturesque and Instagram-worthy spots in the region. Don’t forget your camera as you’ll want to capture the stunning scenery!

Turtle Hatchery

You’ll visit a local turtle hatchery, which is part of a conservation program in the region. The hatchery helps to protect endangered sea turtles and facilitates the release of turtles into the ocean.

Safari Cruise

Your tour also includes a safari cruise along the river. You’ll experience the tranquil beauty of the region from a unique perspective and spot local wildlife such as crocodiles and rare bird species.

Additional Information

Confirmation will be received at the time of booking, so be sure to double-check your booking date and time. Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, and don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellant. Book the tour here: book here.

Book Your Tour Now

The Galle one-day tour offers an insider’s overview of Galle’s coast, allowing visitors to experience the region’s history, culture, and wildlife in a single day. With an experienced guide and an all-inclusive package, it’s an excellent way to explore Galle without any hassle or stress.

Frequently Asked Questions About Kalutara

If you’re planning your visit to the charming coastal city of Kalutara, then you’re probably curious about some of the specifics of your trip. Here are some frequently asked questions to help you get started!

1. Where is Kalutara located?

Kalutara is a city located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, about 40km south of Colombo. It is situated at the mouth of the Kalu River, where it meets the Indian Ocean.

2. What is the climate like in Kalutara?

Kalutara has a tropical climate, with two distinct monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon brings rain from May to September, while the northeast monsoon brings rain from December to February. The average temperature is around 27°C throughout the year, with higher humidity during the monsoon seasons.

3. What are some popular attractions in Kalutara?

Kalutara is known for its stunning beaches, historic temples, and natural beauty. Some popular attractions include:

• Kalutara Bodhiya – a famous Buddhist temple known for its towering white stupa
• Richmond Castle – a magnificent mansion built in the 19th century by a wealthy British planter
• Kalutara Beach – a picturesque stretch of sand lined with palm trees and beachside cafés
• Kaluganga River – a scenic river with boat tours, and birdwatching opportunities
• Kalutara Tuesday Market – a bustling local market selling fresh seafood, fruits, and vegetables

4. What is the best time to visit Kalutara?

The best time to visit Kalutara is during the dry season, which runs from December to April. The weather is sunny and dry, making it perfect for outdoor activities like beachgoing, hiking, and sightseeing. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect larger crowds and higher prices.

5. What are some local dishes to try in Kalutara?

Sri Lankan cuisine is full of delicious and flavorful dishes, and Kalutara is no exception. Some must-try dishes include:

• Hoppers – a type of crispy rice flour pancake filled with egg, vegetables, and spices
• Kottu Roti – chopped roti bread stir-fried with vegetables, eggs, and your choice of meat or seafood
• Fish Ambul Thiyal – a tangy and spicy fish curry made with tamarind and dried spices
• Lamprais – a Dutch-inspired dish of rice, meat, and vegetables wrapped in a banana leaf and baked
• Watalappam – a sweet dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and spices

6. What are the best ways to get around Kalutara?

There are several ways to get around Kalutara, depending on your preferences and budget. Some options include:

• Tuk-tuks – small three-wheeled taxis that are the most common mode of transportation in Kalutara
• Buses – cheap and frequent, but can be crowded and uncomfortable
• Taxis – more expensive but more comfortable and convenient, especially for longer distances
• Rent a car or motorbike – this gives you more independence and flexibility, but be aware of the sometimes chaotic traffic

7. What are some cultural customs to be aware of in Kalutara?

Sri Lankan culture is rich and diverse, and visitors should be respectful of local customs and traditions. Some things to keep in mind include:

• Remove your shoes and cover your shoulders and knees when visiting temples and other religious sites
• Avoid public displays of affection, as this is considered inappropriate in Sri Lankan culture
• Always ask for permission before taking photos of people or their property
• Respect local customs and dress modestly in public places

8. What are some useful phrases to know in Sinhalese?

While English is widely spoken in Sri Lanka, knowing some basic phrases in Sinhalese can go a long way in building relationships with locals. Here are a few to get you started:

• Ayubowan – hello and welcome
• Bohoma Stutti – thank you very much
• Mey Ayawaththa? – what is your name?
• Poth Kala Dubbal – please speak slowly
• Suba Udesanak – good bye and have a nice day

Book Your Tour Now

Kalutara is a beautiful city with a rich cultural heritage and plenty of things to see and do. By familiarizing yourself with some of the basics before your trip, you’ll be better prepared to fully enjoy your time in this wonderful destination.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Kalutara

Kalutara is a beautiful coastal town located in the Western Province of Sri Lanka. It offers stunning beaches, historic attractions, and natural wonders. If you’re planning to visit Kalutara soon, here are some things you can do to make the most out of your trip.

1. Visit the Kalutara Bodhiya

One of the most important Buddhist sites in Kalutara, the Kalutara Bodhiya is a sacred temple that was built in the 1960s. It is located on a small hill overlooking the town and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding area. The temple’s main attraction is a huge Bo tree that’s believed to be over 2000 years old.

2. Relax on the Kalutara Beach

Kalutara Beach is a beautiful stretch of sand that is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing. It’s a great place to unwind after a day spent sightseeing. The beach is particularly popular for its calm waters, which make it perfect for swimming.

3. Explore the Richmond Castle

The Richmond Castle is a beautiful mansion that was built in the 19th century. It has been well-preserved, and visitors can explore the mansion’s beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and old-world charm. The castle’s museum also houses a unique collection of artifacts from the castle’s rich history.

4. See the Kalutara Vihara

The Kalutara Vihara is a beautiful Buddhist temple that dates back to ancient times. It is one of the most important religious sites in the country and is decorated with vibrant colors and intricate carvings. The temple also offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

5. Visit the Kande Vihara Temple

The Kande Vihara Temple is another important Buddhist temple in Kalutara. It is located on a hill and offers panoramic views of the town. The temple’s main attraction is a towering Buddha statue that’s visible from miles away.

6. Experience the Brief Garden

The Brief Garden is home to a beautiful garden that was designed by the renowned artist, Bevis Bawa. The garden is one of the most beautiful attractions in Kalutara and is known for its stunning variety of exotic plants and trees.

7. Take a Tour to the Fa Hien Caves

The Fa Hien Caves are a series of natural caves that are located in the village of Yatagampitiya, just outside Kalutara. They are named after the Chinese scholar, Faxian, who visited Sri Lanka in the 5th century. The caves offer a unique opportunity to explore the natural beauty of Sri Lanka and its rich history.

8. Visit the Kalu River

The Kalu River is a beautiful river that runs through Kalutara. Visitors can take boat rides down the river, go fishing, or simply relax on its banks.

Book Your Tour Now

Kalutara is a beautiful town that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or just relaxing on the beach, Kalutara has it all. Be sure to check out these attractions on your next trip to Sri Lanka.