Overview
Discover the vibrant city of Colombo and the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s southwest coast with an exciting shore excursion from Colombo Port.
Designed for cruise ship passengers, this full-day tour combines cultural sightseeing, a scenic Bentota River boat safari, a visit to a turtle hatchery and an introduction to Sri Lanka’s traditional gemstone industry.
Begin your journey with a visit to Seema Malaka Temple and enjoy sightseeing around Colombo before travelling south to Bentota.
Experience the tropical surroundings of the Bentota River as you cruise through mangrove-lined waterways, looking out for birds, reptiles and other wildlife. Continue your journey with visits to a turtle hatchery and a local gem museum and factory.
With comfortable air-conditioned transportation and an itinerary planned around your cruise ship’s schedule, this excursion offers an opportunity to experience both the cultural and natural attractions of Sri Lanka in a single day.
Itinerary
-
Visit Seema Malaka Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple situated on Beira Lake in Colombo.
-
Enjoy sightseeing around Colombo and discover the city’s cultural landmarks and urban attractions.
-
Experience a scenic boat safari through the mangrove-lined waterways of the Bentota River.
-
Look out for herons, kingfishers, crocodiles and other wildlife during the river safari.
-
Enjoy a traditional fish spa experience, where available.
-
Visit a turtle hatchery and learn about efforts to protect Sri Lanka’s sea turtles.
-
Discover Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry with a visit to a gem museum and factory.
-
Enjoy comfortable air-conditioned transportation from Colombo Port and back.
Meet your transport representative at the designated pickup location at Colombo Port.
Board your comfortable, air-conditioned bus or minibus and begin your journey through Colombo.
Your excursion starts with an introduction to Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, where modern city life meets historic landmarks and cultural attractions.
Visit Seema Malaka Temple, a beautiful Buddhist temple situated on Beira Lake in the heart of Colombo.
Part of the Gangaramaya Temple complex, Seema Malaka is known for its peaceful atmosphere and distinctive setting surrounded by water.
Explore the temple’s architecture, observe its Buddhist statues and enjoy the tranquil surroundings before continuing your city tour.
Continue your journey with a sightseeing tour through Colombo.
Discover the city’s lively streets, colonial architecture, cultural landmarks and modern developments.
Experience the atmosphere of Sri Lanka’s commercial capital before travelling towards the scenic southwest coast.
Arrive in Bentota and embark on a scenic boat safari along the Bentota River.
Cruise through tropical waterways and mangrove forests while discovering the area’s rich biodiversity.
Look out for colourful kingfishers, herons, water monitors, crocodiles and other wildlife that inhabit the river environment.
Enjoy the peaceful scenery and the opportunity to observe Sri Lanka’s coastal ecosystems.
Depending on availability, you may also have the opportunity to experience a traditional fish spa and enjoy refreshing king coconut water.
Continue your tour with a visit to a turtle hatchery along Sri Lanka’s southwest coast.
Learn about the different species of sea turtles found in Sri Lankan waters and the challenges they face in their natural environment.
Discover how conservation programmes aim to protect turtle nesting sites and support sea turtle conservation.
This visit provides an opportunity to learn more about Sri Lanka’s marine biodiversity and the importance of protecting endangered wildlife.
Discover Sri Lanka’s traditional gemstone industry with a visit to a local gem museum and factory.
Learn about the island’s precious and semi-precious gemstones, including its world-famous sapphires.
Explore the processes involved in gemstone identification, cutting and polishing, and discover the craftsmanship associated with Sri Lanka’s gem industry.
Visitors may also have the opportunity to view a collection of locally sourced gemstones and jewellery.
After completing your sightseeing and nature experiences, begin your return journey to Colombo Port.
Relax in your air-conditioned vehicle as you travel back along Sri Lanka’s southwest coast.
The excursion is planned to return to Colombo Port before 6:00 PM, subject to traffic conditions and the cruise ship’s boarding schedule.
Exact timings and the final itinerary will be confirmed during the booking process.
