How to plan your Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans in Colombo

Are you looking for an exhilarating Colombo experience but have limited time in the city? Then look no further than the Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans. With a private guide to show you around, you can tailor your itinerary to your interests and enjoy a stress-free introduction to Sri Lanka’s capital. In this blog post, we’ll guide you through everything you need to know to plan your perfect Colombo excursion.

Overview of the Tour

The Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans is a private tour that covers the best of Colombo in just one day. You’ll get picked up and dropped off at your hotel or the port, so you don’t have to worry about finding a meeting point. The tour is ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore the city’s top attractions such as Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and Galle Face Green.

Why Choose a Private Shore Excursion?

One of the biggest advantages of a private shore excursion is that you get to explore at your own pace. You can skip the attractions that don’t interest you and spend more time in the places that do. You also have the freedom to customize your itinerary and include specific places or experiences that you’re interested in. And with a private guide, you don’t have to worry about the language barrier, as they will translate for you and ensure you don’t miss any hidden gems.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans includes all taxes, fees, and handling charges, as well as local taxes and a fuel surcharge. Excess luggage charges (where applicable) are also covered. Alcoholic drinks are available to purchase, and gratuities are not included.

How to Book the Tour

Booking the Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans is easy. Simply visit the Viator website, select your preferred date and time, and enter your details. The tour costs $95 per person, and you can pay online using a credit card. Don’t forget to mention any special requirements or requests when booking. You can also choose to head directly to the meeting point or request pickup from your hotel or the port.

What to Expect on the Tour

On the day of your tour, your private guide will meet you at the designated location, and the adventure will begin. You can expect to cover plenty of ground and see some of Colombo’s most iconic landmarks. Here are some of the places you might visit: 1. Gangaramaya Temple – A beautiful Buddhist temple with a unique blend of Sri Lankan, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. The temple houses a museum, library, and exhibition hall. 2. Independence Square – A national monument that commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British colonial rule in 1948. 3. Galle Face Green – A large stretch of ocean-facing urban park that’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or picnic. The area is also popular for kite flying and a variety of street food. 4. National Museum of Colombo – A fascinating museum that showcases Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage with an extensive collection of art, artifacts, and exhibits. 5. Pettah Market – A bustling and colorful open-air market that’s great for souvenir shopping or trying local delicacies. The tour will end with drop-off at your hotel or the port, and you’ll leave with wonderful memories and a deeper appreciation for Colombo’s culture and history.

Final Thoughts

The Sri Lanka Shore Excursion by Genuine Sri Lankans is an excellent way to explore Colombo and make the most of your limited time in the city. With a private guide to show you around, you get to see the top attractions and experience the local culture without any hassle or worries. Book the tour today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in Sri Lanka’s capital. Book the tour here.

Frequently Asked Questions About Colombo

Colombo, the bustling commercial capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka, is one of the most visited destinations in the country. With its rich colonial past, vibrant culture, and numerous attractions, Colombo has a lot to offer to the tourists. In this frequently asked questions section, we have tried to address some of the most common queries related to Colombo.

1. Where is Colombo located?

Colombo is located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, facing the Indian Ocean. It is situated about 30 kilometers south of the country’s only international airport – Bandaranaike International Airport.

2. What is the weather like in Colombo?

Colombo has a tropical climate with high humidity throughout the year. The average temperature in Colombo ranges between 25 to 32 degrees Celsius. Monsoon season affects Colombo from May to August and October to January, with heavy rainfall and thunderstorms.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in Colombo?

There are many tourist attractions in Colombo that are worth visiting, including:

• The National Museum of Colombo
• Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
• The Viharamahadevi Park
• The Beira Lake
• The Old Dutch Hospital
• The Pettah Market

4. What are the best ways to travel within Colombo?

There are several ways to travel within Colombo, including:

• Tuk-tuk
• Taxis
• Public Buses
• Trains
• Self-Drive Car

5. What are some of the best places to stay in Colombo?

Colombo offers a wide range of stay options to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the top hotels in Colombo are:

• The Kingsbury
• The Galadari Hotel
• Cinnamon Grand Hotel
• Shangri-La Colombo
• Galle Face Hotel

6. What is the cost of living in Colombo?

Colombo is an affordable city to visit with accommodation and food being relatively cheap. However, the cost of living in Colombo depends mainly on the lifestyle preference of the traveler.

7. What are the famous food items in Colombo?

Colombo is a food lover’s paradise, with an abundance of delicious and diverse cuisine. Some of the famous food items to try in Colombo include:

• Hoppers and String Hoppers – A popular Sri Lankan breakfast dish made from fermented rice batter.
• Lamprais – A Dutch-inspired dish consisting of rice gently infused with spices and served with an array of curries, boiled eggs, and meat.
• Kottu Roti – A popular street food made of chopped flatbread mixed with vegetables and cooked meat or eggs.
• Watalappan – A traditional Sri Lankan dessert made with coconut milk, jaggery, and various spices.
• Seafood – Sri Lanka has an abundance of fresh and diverse seafood options, including prawns, crabs, and fish.

8. What is the best time to visit Colombo?

The best time to visit Colombo is from December to March, when the weather is dry and pleasant. However, the city can be visited throughout the year because of its tropical climate.

9. Is Colombo a safe city for tourists?

Colombo is considered a safe city for tourists. However, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and avoid walking alone at night in unknown areas.

10. What are the customs and culture of Colombo?

The culture of Colombo is influenced by its colonial past and the dominant Sinhalese-Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka. The locals are friendly and hospitable towards visitors. Traditional clothing like sarongs, sari, and salwar kameez are commonly worn. Respect is given to elders, and Buddhist temples are visited and worshipped. In conclusion, Colombo is a city with a lot to offer to tourists. The city has something for everyone – from history and culture to food and entertainment. With proper planning and safety measures, Colombo can be an unforgettable experience for travelers.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in Colombo

Colombo, the vibrant and bustling capital city of Sri Lanka, is a melting pot of cultures and a dynamic mix of historic and modern attractions. As a tourist, there are a variety of things you can do and places you can visit in Colombo to make the most of your time here. In this guide, we’ve listed some of the best activities and attractions to help you plan your trip to Colombo.

1. Visit the National Museum

The National Museum of Colombo is one of the oldest and largest museums in Sri Lanka. It houses a diverse collection of artifacts and exhibits that showcase the rich cultural heritage and history of the island. The museum has a well-preserved section dedicated to the prehistoric period, as well as a vast collection of art, paintings, sculptures, and textiles, all of which are arranged in chronological order.

2. Explore the Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a wide-open park that runs alongside the beach in Colombo. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike to hang out, fly kites, play cricket, and enjoy a picnic. The park is open to the public throughout the day, but it’s best to visit in the evenings when it’s cooler, and vendors sell delicious street food.

3. Take a Stroll Through the Gangaramaya Temple

The Gangaramaya Temple is an iconic Buddhist temple in the heart of Colombo. The temple is famous for its eclectic mix of architecture, which combines traditional Sri Lankan, Thai, and Chinese styles. Visitors can enjoy a serene walk through the temple grounds, which are home to a museum, a library, and several shrines.

4. Go Shopping at the Pettah Market

If you’re interested in experiencing the local shopping scene, the Pettah Market is a must-visit. It’s one of the oldest and largest markets in Sri Lanka, and it’s known for its vibrant atmosphere, bustling crowds, and endless array of goods for sale. You can find everything from spices and textiles to electronics and jewelry here.

5. Explore the Viharamahadevi Park

The Viharamahadevi Park is a beautiful public park situated in the heart of Colombo. The park is named after Queen Viharamahadevi, and it features a stunning statue of the queen as its centerpiece. The park has several walking paths, ponds, and children’s play areas. It’s an excellent place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

6. Visit the Old Parliament Building

The Old Parliament Building is an iconic landmark in Colombo. It was built in the early 1930s and served as the parliament of Sri Lanka until 1983. Today, the building is open to the public as a museum and art gallery, showcasing the country’s political and cultural history.

7. Take a Boat Ride on the Beira Lake

Beira Lake is a scenic lake that’s situated in the heart of Colombo. One of the best ways to enjoy the lake’s beauty is by taking a boat ride. Several boat operators offer guided tours of the lake, which is home to several small islands, as well as a variety of birdlife.

8. Visit the Independence Memorial Hall

The Independence Memorial Hall is a significant landmark in Colombo that commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. The hall is situated on a vast, beautifully manicured lawn, which is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors.

9. Try the Local Cuisine

No trip to Colombo is complete without sampling the local cuisine. Sri Lankan food is known for its bold, spicy flavors and aromatic curries. Some must-try dishes include rice and curry, hoppers (a type of pancake), and kottu roti (a popular street food made with shredded roti, vegetables, and meat).

10. Relax at a Local Beach

Colombo is situated on the western coast of Sri Lanka and is home to several beautiful beaches. Mount Lavinia Beach is a popular choice for tourists, with its golden sands and crystal-clear waters. Galle Face Beach is also worth a visit, especially in the evenings when locals come to fly kites and socialize.

Book Your Tour Now

Colombo is a vibrant and exciting city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or food, there are plenty of activities and attractions to keep you busy. We hope this guide has given you some inspiration and ideas for your next trip to Colombo. Happy travels!