Back to Excursions
Verified GuideOne DayGalle, Bentota River, South Coast

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.

One Day
1

09:30 - 10:00 - Hotel Pickup

View on map

Hotel Pickup

Depart at 9:30 AM from your hotel in Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Unawatuna, Weligama, or Tangalle. Enjoy a scenic drive along the southern coast.

2

10:00 - 11:00 - Bentota River Safari

View on map

Bentota 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.

3

11:30 - 12:00 - Turtle Farm

View on map

Turtle 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.

4

12:30 - 13:00 - Stilt Fishing

View on map

Stilt 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.

5

13:30 - 14:00 - Moonstone Mine

View on map

Moonstone 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.

6

14:30 - 15:00 - Glass-Bottom Boat

View on map

Glass-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.

7

15:30 - 16:15 - Spice Garden

View on map

Spice Garden

Explore a local spice garden to discover aromatic herbs, exotic plants, and traditional remedies used in Ayurveda and Sri Lankan cuisine.

8

16:45 - 18:00 - Galle Fort Exploration

View on map

Galle 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.

9

18:00 - 19:30 - Return Journey

View on map

Return Journey

Depart Galle and head back to your hotel, reminiscing about the day's coastal exploration and historic insights.

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
Leaflet © OpenStreetMap contributors

Itinerary Stops

+4 more stops
Chat with a Travel Expert