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Activity Colombo, Sri Lanka

Galle Day Trip from Kalutara - Temples, River Safari & Dutch Fort

9–10 hours Free cancellation Private tour
Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Galle Day Trip from Kalutara - Temples, River Safari & Dutch Fort

About this activity

Discover the coastal treasures of southern Sri Lanka on a full-day trip from Kalutara, designed for those seeking cultural and scenic experiences. Visit the tranquil Kande Viharaya Temple, home to the tallest seated Buddha statue in South Asia, and engage in conservation efforts at the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project. Glide through lush mangroves on a serene river safari, relax at Hikkaduwa Beach, and pay your respects at the poignant Tsunami Memorial. Conclude your day wandering the cobblestone streets of the Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in colonial history.

  • Private, air-conditioned vehicle with professional driver-guide
  • Visit significant sites including temples, a turtle hatchery, and a memorial
  • Scenic boat ride through mangroves with wildlife spotting opportunities
  • Ideal for travelers looking for a comprehensive cultural experience
Day Trips Full-day Tours Bus Tours Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Cultural Tours City Tours Car Tours

At a glance

Duration
9–10 hours
Confirmation
Instant confirmation
Ticket
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group
Your group only
People per booking
1–3
Guide
English
Operated by
Kalutara to Galle One Day Tour

Ages: Adults (18–70 years)

What is included

Included

  • Included: Private transportation
  • Included: Bottled water
  • Included: English speaking professional driver
  • Included: In-vehicle air conditioning: Air-conditioned vehicle
  • Included: Surcharges on fuel: Fuel surcharge
  • Included: Parking Fees

Not included

  • Not included: Meals
  • Not included: Dinner
  • Not included: Breakfast
  • Not included: Snacks
  • Not included: Alcoholic Beverages
  • Not included: Entrance fees for Madu River Safari is not included and must be paid directly at the site.
  • Not included: Entrance fees for Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project is not included and must be paid directly at the site.

Itinerary

  1. Stop 1

    30 min

    Visit one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist temples, home to the tallest seated Buddha statue in South Asia. Walk through the peaceful temple grounds, admire the ancient murals, and learn about the temple’s spiritual significance from your driver-guide.

  2. Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project

    one hour Admission not included

    Visit one of Sri Lanka’s most impactful wildlife conservation centers, where you can learn about sea turtle species, observe hatchlings, and understand the rescue and release process. A meaningful stop for wildlife lovers and families alike.

  3. Stop 3

    1 h 30 min Admission not included

    Enjoy a scenic boat safari through the lush mangroves of the Madu River. Spot wildlife like water monitors and birds, glide past cinnamon plantations, and even stop at small islands with temples or fish therapy. A relaxing yet adventurous ride through nature.

  4. Hikkaduwa Beach

    30 min Admission not included

    Relax on the golden sands of Hikkaduwa Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular coastal destinations. Take a swim, enjoy fresh seafood, or explore the coral reefs just offshore. It’s the perfect beach break before continuing your journey to Galle.

  5. Tsunami Memorial

    30 min Admission not included

    Visit the Tsunami Memorial Statue, a powerful tribute to the thousands of lives lost in the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami. Located near Peraliya, this peaceful stop offers time for reflection and remembrance amid your journey along Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

  6. Galle Dutch Fort

    1 h 30 min

    Explore the historic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its preserved colonial architecture, charming streets, and panoramic ocean views. Stroll through the fort’s ramparts, lighthouse, old churches, and boutique shops while learning about its Portuguese and Dutch legacy.

Meeting point and pickup

The operator picks every participant up from their accommodation or the points below.

Pickup points

  • Anantara Kalutara Resort
  • Hiru Om
  • Turyaa Kalutara by Aitken Spence Hotels
  • Avani Kalutara Resort
  • Hibiscus Beach Hotel
  • Tangerine Beach Hotel
  • Citrus Waskaduwa
  • Jetwing Saman Villas, A Luxury Reserve
  • Royal Palms Beach Hotel
  • Ocean of Life Ayurvedic Resort
  • Cinnamon Bey Beruwala
  • EKHO Surf

and 5 more pickup points

Pickup will be provided from hotels and guesthouses in Kalutara and nearby areas. Please be ready at the entrance or reception at 8:00 AM. Our driver will contact you via WhatsApp or phone the evening before to confirm pickup time and location.

Cancellation

Free cancellation

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

If you cancel You get back
At least one day before 100%
Less than a day before 0%
  • The operator may cancel if the weather does not allow it; you then get another date or your money back.

Good to know

  • Specialized infant seats are available

  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Activities, prices and reviews are from Viator. Booking and payment happen on Viator; Vacantier may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.

Galle Day Trip from Kalutara - Temples, River Safari & Dutch Fort

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