Embark on a captivating one-day journey from Hikkaduwa to explore the vibrant heart of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital. This exclusive tour package, priced at $190 for two persons, includes entrance fees to all listed attractions and comfortable, air-conditioned transfers. The tour starts at 8:00 AM from Hikkaduwa and concludes with a return by 6:00 PM, offering a perfect blend of cultural, historical, and modern experiences. Please note that the price may vary based on the number of persons and starting location.
Duration: 10 hours (8:00 AM to 6:00 PM)
Price: $190 for 2 persons (includes entrance fees and air-conditioned transfers)
Starting Point: Hikkaduwa
Group Size: Customizable (price adjusts with group size)
Note: Dress conservatively for religious sites (shoulders and knees covered). Photography is allowed at most locations, but confirm specific rules at each site.
Begin your day with a comfortable, air-conditioned transfer from Hikkaduwa to Colombo, approximately a 2-hour drive (110 km).
Start your Colombo adventure at Independence Square, a historic landmark commemorating Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948. Explore the monument and surrounding gardens, soaking in the serene ambiance. (30-minute stop)
Visit the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, a cultural hub by Beira Lake, known for its eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. Explore the temple, museum, and sacred Bodhi tree. (45-minute stop)
Experience the vibrant Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam, Colombo’s oldest Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva and Ganesha, adorned with intricate carvings. (30-minute stop)
Enjoy a local meal at a recommended restaurant in Colombo (not included in the package price). Your guide can suggest authentic Sri Lankan dining options.
Marvel at the striking red-and-white-striped Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque in Pettah, a masterpiece of Indo-Islamic architecture. Note that entry is subject to prayer times; photography is permitted from the exterior if closed. (30-minute stop)
Ascend the tallest tower in South Asia, the Colombo Lotus Tower, for panoramic city views from the observation deck. Enjoy the modern architecture and vibrant surroundings. (45-minute stop)
Indulge in retail therapy at a premier shopping center like Odel at Dutch Hospital or Arcade Independence Square. Browse for souvenirs, clothing, teas, and local crafts. (1-hour stop)
Depart Colombo for a comfortable 2-hour drive back to Hikkaduwa, arriving by 6:00 PM with unforgettable memories of the day.
The tour begins and ends in Hikkaduwa, a coastal town 110 km south of Colombo, known for its beaches and vibrant vibe. The itinerary covers key attractions in Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, including: