Kalutara’s tours pack real value for travelers looking to experience Sri Lanka’s highlights. The standout options begin with the efficient Colombo City Tour – perfect for seeing the magnificent Gangaramaya Temple and urban heritage sites in just one day. For nature lovers, I’m especially fond of the Galle One Day Tour, combining a peaceful river safari with jungle exploration. The Yala Safari Private Day Tour ranks as my top wildlife pick, offering prime chances to photograph leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. The well-organized Galle Day Tour cleverly combines cultural stops, wildlife viewing at a turtle hatchery, and a fascinating peek into tea production. Let’s explore the best tour choices in detail.
Key Points
- Galle One Day Tour from Kalutara features a visit to the UNESCO-listed Dutch Fort, safari cruise, and Unawatuna beaches.
- Turtle Hatchery, Boat Safari, and Galle Tour from Kalutara provides an educational experience with a river safari and guided tour of Galle Fort.
- Galle Day Tour with River Safari and Tea Plantation offers a comprehensive private tour with transportation, activities, and meals included.
- Cultural Heritage Tour from Kalutara immerses visitors in Sri Lanka’s cultural legacy, focusing on ancient ruins and terraced gardens.
- Yala Safari Private Day Tour from Kalutara provides an opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, and diverse birdlife in a private 4WD safari.
Full Day Guided Tour to Ella
For those seeking a comprehensive introduction to the picturesque town of Ella, the Full Day Guided Tour offers an immersive experience. This highly-rated tour, boasting a 100% recommendation from travelers, takes guests on a journey through Ella’s stunning landscapes and cultural highlights.
Departing early from Colombo or Negombo, the tour includes a delightful breakfast with a view, followed by a scenic train ride to Ella, with stops at a tea plantation, waterfalls, and an elephant sanctuary. Travelers will also have the opportunity to marvel at the iconic Nine Arch Bridge and climb Little Adam’s Peak for breathtaking vistas.
The itinerary concludes with a visit to the Ravana Pool Club, providing a chance to relax before the return journey. Praised for its well-planned schedules and knowledgeable guides, this private tour ensures a personalized and memorable experience for all participants.
Read our full review: Full Day Guided Tour to Ella Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kalutara: Colombo City Tour
Travelers based in Kalutara can embark on a captivating Colombo City Tour, exploring the diverse cultural and historical landmarks of Sri Lanka’s bustling capital. Priced from €96 per person, this 5-hour excursion offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the flexibility to reserve now and pay later.
The tour’s highlights include the iconic Colombo Fort Lighthouse and Clock Tower, the serene Gangaramaya Temple, and the expansive National Museum, providing insights into the city’s colonial past and local culture.
Visitors will also enjoy a break at the picturesque Viharamahadevi Park and a photo stop at the iconic Galle Face Green. Throughout the journey, the English-speaking chauffeur/guide will share fascinating stories and context, ensuring a truly immersive experience.
Included in the tour are pickup and drop-off, air-conditioned transportation, entrance fees, and a complimentary bottle of mineral water per person.
Travelers are advised to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and their passports or IDs, as the tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users.
Read our full review: From Kalutara: Colombo City Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Galle One Day Tour
Setting out on a Galle One Day Tour from Kalutara provides travelers with a comprehensive sightseeing experience. The guided tour takes visitors to the Dutch Fort, a renowned UNESCO World Heritage Site, and includes a safari cruise and a visit to the Unawatuna beaches.
Plus, the tour showcases the Roomassala Jungle and a local turtle hatchery.
The tour package includes round-trip hotel transfers, a professional guide, and lunch. Travelers can also purchase souvenir photos as a memento of their journey.
The tour departs from Kalutara in the morning and returns to the original departure point, making it a convenient option for those staying in the area.
With a rating of 4.9 out of 5 from 7 positive reviews, this Galle One Day Tour is a must-consider activity for those looking to explore the rich cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
The tour’s private nature ensures a personalized experience for each group.
Read our full review: Galle One Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Kalutara: Turtle Hatchery Visit, Boat Safari, and Galle Tour
Combining southern Sri Lanka’s natural wonders and cultural heritage, this day trip from Kalutara offers an immersive experience.
Kicking off around 8:30 am, you’ll head to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn about the region’s five endangered sea turtle species. Get up close and personal as you see, touch, and feed the baby turtles.
Next, embark on a 1-hour boat safari along the Madu River in Balapitiya, where you’ll explore the mangroves and spot crocodiles, capping it off with a fish massage.
After free time for lunch, you’ll arrive in Galle by 3 pm for a guided tour of the historic fort and landmarks.
This comprehensive tour includes round-trip transportation, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide. Priced from €86.40 per person, it’s an excellent value for this full-day adventure.
Just remember to bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and your sense of wonder.
Read our full review: Kalutara: Turtle Hatchery Visit, Boat Safari, and Galle Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Galle Day Tour
The Galle Day Tour offers an immersive exploration of the historic Galle Fort and Old Town, both UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Travelers will discover the area’s rich cultural heritage, from the fascinating mangroves along the Bentota River to the heartbreaking stories at the Community Tsunami Museum.
The tour also includes a visit to the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project, where you’ll get to see baby sea turtles up close.
The half-day private tour starts at $81.17 per person and includes round-trip transportation from Kalutara, Bentota, and other nearby cities.
The air-conditioned vehicle and all taxes and fees are covered, and breakfast is provided.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly, and infants can sit on laps.
With an overall 5-star rating based on 9 reviews, this tour is an excellent way to discover the highlights of Galle in a single day.
Read our full review: Galle Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kalutara: Lunuganga Estate, Turtles and Madu River Tour
While exploring the enchanting landscapes surrounding Kalutara, travelers can embark on a captivating tour that showcases the area’s diverse natural and cultural wonders. The “From Kalutara: Lunuganga Estate, Turtles and Madu River Tour” offers a unique opportunity to take in the region’s rich heritage.
The tour begins with a visit to the Lunuganga Estate, the former country house of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. Visitors can wander through the estate’s lush gardens, admiring the intricate design and breathtaking vistas.
Next, the tour takes guests to a turtle hatchery, where they can witness the fascinating process of turtle conservation and potentially see baby turtles hatching.
The highlight of the tour is a journey along the serene Madu River, where travelers can observe the vibrant ecosystem and local way of life. Boat rides through the mangrove-lined waterways offer a chance to spot diverse wildlife, including migratory birds and the iconic water monitor lizards.
This immersive experience provides a deeper understanding of the region’s natural treasures and the importance of their preservation.
Read our full review: From Kalutara: Lunuganga Estate, Turtles and Madu River Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Galle Day Tour With River Safari, Tea Plantation & Sea Turtle
Embarking on the Galle Day Tour with River Safari, Tea Plantation & Sea Turtle, travelers can enjoy the diverse cultural and natural wonders of the region.
This private tour offers a flexible itinerary, allowing guests to explore at their own pace. The tour includes all private transportation, with pickup and drop-off from various locations in the area.
Travelers will enjoy a Bentota River Safari, as well as visits to a tea plantation and a sea turtle hatchery, all while indulging in a provided lunch and refreshments.
The tour is priced from $135 per person, with the final cost varying based on group size. With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour is an excellent way to discover the highlights of Galle and the surrounding region.
Operated by Bentota Travel Mart, the tour is easily booked and comes with free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the start.
Read our full review: Galle Day Tour With River Safari, Tea Plantation & Sea Turtle Review
Book now: Check availability
From Kalutara: Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour
Travelers seeking to explore two of Sri Lanka’s most iconic archaeological wonders can embark on the Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour from Kalutara.
The full-day guided tour costs $140 per person and lasts 16 hours, with pickup included within a 5km radius of Kalutara. After a 4-4.5 hour drive, visitors will tour the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, admiring its ancient Buddha images and frescoes.
They’ll then enjoy lunch before heading to the 5th-century Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where they’ll climb to the top for stunning views of the ancient ruins and terraced gardens.
The tour includes an English-speaking guide, air-conditioned transportation, and all entrance fees. Travelers should bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and their passport or ID.
While not suitable for pregnant women or wheelchair users, this tour offers an immersive experience exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Read our full review: From Kalutara: Sigiriya Rock and Dambulla Cave Full-Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Yala Safari Private Day Tour Kaluthara/Beruwala/Bentota/Kosgoda/Ahungalla
For travelers seeking an immersive wildlife experience in Sri Lanka, the Yala Safari Private Day Tour from Kaluthara, Beruwala, Bentota, Kosgoda, or Ahungalla offers a convenient and personalized adventure.
With a 5.0-star rating on Viator and Tripadvisor, this half-day 4WD safari promises sightings of leopards, elephants, crocodiles, deer, and diverse birdlife. Accompanied by a driver-tracker, the private tour ensures optimal wildlife viewing.
Guests can choose a morning or afternoon safari, with private air-conditioned transport, entrance fees, meals, and gratuities included. The tour conveniently departs from several coastal towns, though a minimum of 2 participants is required.
While not suitable for those with medical conditions, the experience is stroller-accessible and offers free cancellation.
Complementing the abundant wildlife, the tour covers all logistics, allowing travelers to fully enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural wonders for a day.
Read our full review: Yala Safari Private Day Tour Kaluthara/Beruwala/Bentota/Kosgoda/Ahungalla Review
Book now: Check availability
Udawalawa National Park Day Tour
The Udawalawa National Park Day Tour offers a captivating escape from the coastal towns, inviting visitors to witness the majesty of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. Priced from $298.99 per person, this private tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry to the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home, a private safari jeep, and a fully insured air-conditioned vehicle.
Though not wheelchair accessible and not recommended for those with certain medical conditions, the tour requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
With a 4.4 rating based on 5 reviews, the experience promises an unforgettable journey through the park, where travelers can observe elephants, crocodiles, and a diverse array of birds in their natural habitat.
Confirming pickup details prior to the tour, the operator provides a convenient and flexible experience. Guests can take advantage of the reserve-now-pay-later option, and enjoy the exclusivity of a private tour for their group only.
Read our full review: Udawalawa National Park Day Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
1 Day Tour to Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park
Though offering a choice between Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park, this day tour provides an immersive wildlife experience in either renowned Sri Lankan reserve. Priced from $85 per person, the private tour includes round-trip transportation, park admission, a safari Jeep, and all meals.
Travelers can expect a full day of exploration, with the itinerary covering breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Complimentary amenities like water bottles and 4G internet access add convenience.
However, the experience may not suit everyone, as it’s not wheelchair-accessible and requires a moderate fitness level. With only three reviews, the tour boasts an impressive 4.7/5 rating, though none are 5-stars.
Read our full review: 1 Day Tour to Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park Review
Book now: Check availability
Galle Day Tour via Hikkaduwa Beach
Embarking on the Galle Day Tour via Hikkaduwa Beach, travelers can enjoy the captivating coastal scenery of Sri Lanka.
This private tour, limited to a maximum of 4 participants, offers a comprehensive exploration of the region. Priced from $74.75 per person, the tour includes transportation, entrance fees, and a delightful lunch.
Visitors will discover the Aluthgama Temple and embark on a Bentota River Safari, providing a glimpse into the local culture and natural wonders.
With an impressive 5.0 overall rating from 3 reviews, this tour is a popular choice among travelers.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions, most travelers can participate.
Booking is straightforward, with confirmation received upon reservation and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience. This flexible option allows travelers to plan their Sri Lankan adventure with ease.
Read our full review: Galle Day Tour via Hikkaduwa Beach Review
Book now: Check availability
Sum Up
Kalutara offers a variety of tours that allow visitors to explore the nearby attractions. From day trips to Ella, Colombo, and Galle to safaris in Yala and Udawalawe National Parks, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re interested in wildlife, history, or simply soaking up the local culture, Kalutara has a lot to offer.