Galle One-Day Tour (Dutch Colonial City)
About This Excursion
Immerse yourself in the culture and history of Southern Sri Lanka on this day trip to Galle and its surroundings. Starting with a morning pickup, you'll embark on a Bentota River Safari teeming with wildlife, visit a local turtle farm, and witness the traditional practice of stilt fishing. Discover how moonstones are sourced, experience a glass-bottom boat ride over coral reefs, and explore a spice garden showcasing Sri Lankan herbal remedies. Conclude the day inside the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, where colonial architecture meets modern boutique cafés and restaurants—an unforgettable fusion of past and present.
Highlights
Bentota River Safari
Cruise through tranquil mangrove forests, spotting local fauna and lush riverbanks
Stilt Fishing
Witness an age-old tradition unique to Sri Lanka's southern coast
UNESCO Galle Fort
Explore 17th-century Dutch fortifications and colonial-era architecture
Excursion Schedule
Discover Galle's Dutch colonial heritage, scenic river safari, and local traditions on a day trip from Sri Lanka's southwestern coast.
10:00 - 11:00 - Bentota River Safari
View on mapBentota River Safari
Board a boat for an unforgettable ride through the lush mangroves of the Bentota River. Spot crocodiles, water monitors, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
11:30 - 12:00 - Turtle Farm
View on mapTurtle Farm
Continue to a local turtle hatchery. Learn about the conservation efforts to protect different species of sea turtles before releasing hatchlings into the wild.
12:30 - 13:00 - Stilt Fishing
View on mapStilt Fishing
Witness one of Sri Lanka's most iconic cultural practices as fishermen balance on wooden stilts to catch small reef fish near the shore.
13:30 - 14:00 - Moonstone Mine
View on mapMoonstone Mine
Visit a working moonstone mine and see how this semi-precious stone is mined, graded, and polished. You can also browse the onsite shop if you wish.
14:30 - 15:00 - Glass-Bottom Boat
View on mapGlass-Bottom Boat
Experience marine life without getting wet. Observe coral reefs and tropical fish through the glass-bottomed vessel, learning about Sri Lanka's vibrant underwater ecosystems.
15:30 - 16:15 - Spice Garden
View on mapSpice Garden
Explore a local spice garden to discover aromatic herbs, exotic plants, and traditional remedies used in Ayurveda and Sri Lankan cuisine.
16:45 - 18:00 - Galle Fort Exploration
View on mapGalle Fort Exploration
Arrive at the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Fort, a 17th-century stronghold once operated by the Dutch. Wander along the ramparts, visit the lighthouse, and soak in the colonial charm.
18:00 - 19:30 - Return Journey
View on mapReturn Journey
Depart Galle and head back to your hotel, reminiscing about the day's coastal exploration and historic insights.







