Budget Colombo City Tour
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Budget Colombo City Tour

Active
(2 reviews)
6h - 7h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Colombo is Sri Lanka’s vibrant commercial capital and a key gateway for travelers exploring the island. With a history spanning over 2,000 years, the city grew as an important trading port used by Arab, Chinese, and Indian merchants before coming under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. These influences have shaped Colombo into a city rich in heritage, culture, and architectural charm.
Today, Colombo offers visitors a perfect blend of old and new. Modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial-era buildings, bustling markets, and sacred religious sites. Travelers can enjoy scenic ocean views at Galle Face Green, explore cultural landmarks such as Gangaramaya Temple and the National Museum, or experience the lively atmosphere of Pettah’s markets. With its diverse dining options, shopping districts, and coastal charm, Colombo is an ideal starting point for any Sri Lankan journey.

Available options

Luxury Colombo City Tour

luxury SUV<br/>Pickup included

Budget Colombo City Tour

What's included

Private transportation
Bottled water
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guide

Detailed itinerary

1

Old Parliament Building, Colombo is a historic colonial-era landmark located near Galle Face Green. Built in the 1930s during British rule, it features impressive neoclassical architecture with grand columns and elegant stonework. Once the seat of Sri Lanka’s Parliament, the building now houses key government offices and remains an important symbol of the country’s political history. Its scenic seaside location makes it a notable stop during Colombo city tours.

2
Stop 2

Galle Face Green is a popular oceanfront promenade in the heart of Colombo, stretching along the Indian Ocean. It’s a favorite spot for evening walks, kite flying, and street food, offering stunning sunset views and a lively local atmosphere. This historic open space is perfect for relaxing by the sea and experiencing everyday life in Colombo.

3

**Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil** is one of Colombo’s oldest and most important Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva. Known for its colorful Dravidian-style architecture and intricate carvings, the temple is a vibrant center of worship and cultural heritage. Located near the Old Parliament area, it reflects the deep-rooted Hindu traditions within Colombo’s diverse religious landscape.

4
Stop 4

**Gangaramaya Temple** is one of Colombo’s most important Buddhist temples, blending religious devotion with cultural heritage. Located near Beira Lake, it features a unique mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles, along with a fascinating collection of statues and artifacts. The temple is a peaceful spiritual center and a key highlight of any Colombo city tour.

5

**Viharamahadevi Park** is the largest and oldest public park in Colombo, offering a peaceful green escape in the city center. Known for its wide lawns, shady trees, and the large Buddha statue at the entrance, the park is popular for relaxing walks, family time, and nature breaks during Colombo city tours.

6
Stop 6

**Independence Square, Colombo** is a national landmark built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. Featuring elegant stone pillars and traditional Kandyan-style architecture, it stands as a symbol of freedom and national pride. The surrounding gardens and open spaces make it a popular spot for walks, photography, and city tours.

7
Stop 7

**The National Museum of Sri Lanka**, located in Colombo, is the country’s largest and oldest museum. It houses a rich collection of artifacts, including ancient royal regalia, sculptures, manuscripts, and historical objects that showcase Sri Lanka’s cultural and archaeological heritage. The museum offers a fascinating insight into the island’s history and traditions.

Entry Ticket not included. Clients will have to pay $10 at the gate for Entry

8

**BMICH (Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall)** is a prominent landmark in Colombo and one of Sri Lanka’s main venues for international conferences, exhibitions, and cultural events. Gifted by the People’s Republic of China in the 1970s, it features impressive architecture and spacious grounds, symbolizing Sri Lanka’s global connections and diplomatic history.

9

**Colombo Race Course** is a historic landmark that was once a British-era horse racing track and has now been transformed into a modern recreational and commercial complex. Located near Independence Square, it features restaurants, open green spaces, and event venues, making it a popular spot for leisure, dining, and city exploration in Colombo.

10

**Colombo Lotus Tower** is Sri Lanka’s tallest structure and a striking modern landmark in the heart of Colombo. Shaped like a lotus flower, it serves as a telecommunications tower and observation point, offering panoramic views of the city and coastline. The tower symbolizes modern development and has become a key highlight of Colombo city tours, especially in the evening.

Entry Ticket not included. Clients will have to pay $20 at the gate for Entry

What's not included

National Museum - 10 USD , LOTUS TOWER - 20 USD

Available languages

Guide guide
HI DE RU CMN JA EN IT FR TA ES
Audio guide
RU

Reviews breakdown

Tripadvisor 5.0
2 reviews
5★
2
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0

Important information

Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

We will meet you at the arrival hall, where your assigned driver/ guide will be waiting with a sign displaying the lead traveler’s name.

About Colombo

Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital, is a vibrant blend of modern life and colonial charm. With its diverse culture, rich history, and tropical beauty, the city offers everything from historic sites and religious landmarks to lively markets and beautiful beaches.

Top Attractions

Galle Face Green

A scenic promenade along the Indian Ocean, popular for kite flying, evening strolls, and street food.

Beach 1-2 hours Free

National Museum of Colombo

Sri Lanka's largest museum, showcasing the country's rich history and cultural heritage.

Museum 2-3 hours LKR 1,000 (foreigners)

Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara

An ancient Buddhist temple with significant historical and religious importance.

Religious 1-2 hours Free (donations welcome)

Beira Lake

A scenic lake in the heart of Colombo, offering boat rides and beautiful views.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (boat rides may have a small fee)

Colombo Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct

A historic building transformed into a vibrant shopping and dining destination.

Shopping 1-3 hours Varies by shop

Must-Try Local Dishes

Rice and Curry

A traditional Sri Lankan meal consisting of rice served with a variety of curries made from vegetables, meat, or fish.

Main Dish Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Hoppers (Appa)

Bowl-shaped pancakes made from fermented rice flour and coconut milk, often served with an egg in the center.

Breakfast/Dinner Vegetarian, can be made vegan without egg.

Kottu Roti

A popular street food made from chopped roti (flatbread) cooked with vegetables, meat, or fish, and spices.

Dinner/Snack Vegetarian and non-vegetarian options available, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Lamprais

A Dutch-influenced dish consisting of rice, meat, and vegetables cooked in banana leaves.

Main Dish Non-vegetarian, may contain allergens like nuts and seafood.

Popular Activities

Hiking Water sports Wildlife safaris Beach activities Spa treatments Yoga Temple visits Museum tours

Best Time to Visit

December to March

This period offers the best weather for visiting, with warm temperatures and less rainfall, making it ideal for exploring the city and its attractions.

28-32°C 82-90°F

Practical Information

Language

  • Official: Sinhala, Tamil
  • Widely spoken: English
  • English: Widely spoken in tourist areas and by younger generations

Currency

Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR)

Time Zone

GMT+5:30

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution in crowded areas and at night

Colombo is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime and scams can occur, especially in crowded areas and tourist hotspots. Be cautious of pickpocketing, bag snatching, and overcharging by taxis and vendors.

Important Precautions:
  • • Use reputable tour operators and guides
  • • Agree on fares before using taxis or tuk-tuks
  • • Keep valuables secure and out of sight

Getting there

By air
  • Bandaranaike International Airport • 35 km south of Colombo
By train

Colombo Fort Station

By bus

Bastion Street Bus Terminal, Colombo Central Bus Stand

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around, but they can be crowded and slow.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, PickMe

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Colombo Fort Cinnamon Gardens Galle Face Pettah

Day trips

Kandy
115 km • Full day

Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings' era, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its rich history, cultural landmarks, and scenic beauty.

Galle
120 km • Full day

Galle is a historic coastal city known for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort, beautiful beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

Negombo
35 km • Half day

Negombo is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches, historic sites, and vibrant fishing industry.

Festivals

Vesak • May (full moon day) Esala Perahera • July or August (full moon day) Christmas • December 25

Pro tips

  • Use app-based taxi services like Uber or PickMe for reliable and transparent pricing
  • Carry small denominations of cash for markets and street vendors, as change may be limited
  • Bargain politely when shopping at markets and with street vendors, as prices are often negotiable
  • Try local street food for an authentic and affordable culinary experience, but be cautious of food hygiene and choose busy stalls with high turnover
  • Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat
Get Price per person

Price varies by option

Adults
Age 18-50
1
Childs
Age 3-12
0
Infants
Age 1-2
0
Booking requirements:
  • Min travelers: 1
  • Max travelers: 4
  • Adult required for booking
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation

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