Why 2020 Is The Year To Visit Colombo? One Day Trip Around Colombo and Mini Guide to Culture in Sri Lanka

17 BEST PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR

Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Sri Lanka has been popular around the world not only for the dynamic cultural and historical offerings, but also, for the natural resources, infrastructure, and ability to accommodate relatively a large high number of tourists. Colombo is the commercial hub of Sri Lanka and Bentota beach is the most attractive beach holiday destination in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the Colombo Bentota package tour is on the bucket list of most foreign travellers as it allows them to witness the vibrant city life of Colombo and enjoy the pristine beaches on the western and south coasts in one trip.

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17 BEST PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR

Sri Lanka has been popular around the world not only for the dynamic cultural and historical offerings, but also, for the natural resources, infrastructure, and ability to accommodate relatively a large high number of tourists. Colombo is the commercial hub of Sri Lanka and Bentota beach is the most attractive beach holiday destination in Sri Lanka. Therefore, the Colombo Bentota package tour is on the bucket list of most foreign travellers as it allows them to witness the vibrant city life of Colombo and enjoy the pristine beaches on the western and south coasts in one trip.

17 PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR
Colombo lotus tower, the tallest building in southern Asia

WHAT IS THE IMPORTANCE OF THE COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR?

Colombo and Bentota tour is a short program (5 day Sri Lanka tour itinerary), however, it does not lack interesting activities and places to visit. These 5 days Sri Lanka tour allows travellers to explore 2 of the most important tourist attractions on the island, Colombo and Bentota.

This is a perfect opportunity to see the vibrant city of Colombo while exploring the pristine, isolated and calm beaches towards the latter part of the trip. This tour package includes a sightseeing tour of Colombo, a sightseeing tour of Bentota and leisure on a beach resort. During the Colombo sightseeing tour, the guests are visiting many historical monuments, museums, and temples and do some shopping.

The last 3 days of the Sri Lanka trip include many interesting places in southern Sri Lanka. Tour to Galle fortress, Hikkaduwa beach, Unawatuna beach, and sea turtle conservation centre is included in this Sri Lanka land tour package. The traveller will take part in a whale-watching boat trip from their hotel in Bentota.

colombo sightseeing tour
Colombo beach

COLOMBO

The south Asian tropical island, Sri Lanka (about Sri Lanka) has a fascinating blend of natural and man-made holiday attractions. The island’s economic hub, Colombo (Colombo city tour) has an interesting mix of colonial splendour and modern bustling city life.

Recently the city authorities have embarked on an ambitious program of upgrading Colombo into the so-called “the garden city of Asia” or a city with a substantial green cover. The city of Colombo had been recognized as a Ramsar wetland city due to its extensive wetland cover that crisscrosses its borders.

A large improvement in the forest cover of Colombo can be witnessed in Colombo today and the city is consisting of parks, walking trails and playgrounds with an extensive green canopy. And the capital of the island, Sri Jayewardenepura boasted to be a calm, quiet and beautiful green city. Here are the top five tourist places near Colombo.

Colombo, a vibrant city offers many possibilities for travellers. The city harbours a large number of interesting places, therefore visiting Colombo is on the bucket list of most foreign travellers. Colombo is also the business bub of Sri Lanka and the bustling city harbours the most important offices for various business, trade and tourism activities.

Colombo is a cultural melting pot, where many religious and ethnic groups rub their shoulder with each other. Colombo is modern, but it is still a place to discover Sri Lanka’s heritage and culture.    

Colombo is most popular among travellers as a city with a rich colonial heritage and modern development. There is a large number of cultural and historical tourist places near Colombo and most travellers visit them. But, virtually none of the travellers who visit Sri Lanka for holiday are aware of the natural tourist places near Colombo. One question most travellers ask us is, are there any natural tourist places in Colombo? The answer is “YES”. Following are the top four tourist places near Colombo.

  • Beddegana Wetland Park
  • Diyasaru Wetland
  • Kolonnawa Wetland
  • Talangama Tank
  • Viharamadevi park
light house colombo
Colombo Lighthouse

HOW TO EXPLORE COLOMBO

Racing through Colombo on your foot is a part of the Colombo city tour. Because some of the secret corners of Colombo cannot be accessed you your vehicle. Perhaps there is a well-developed road network, that you like to explore but is it tightly packed with sellers and shoppers? E.g. Pettah open market, don’t think of racing through the packed streets during the day. It will be an endless journey and you will make a snaillike journey.

Top 10 places to see in Colombo

1. Gangaramaya Temple: A Spiritual Haven

Nestled in the heart of Colombo, Gangaramaya Temple is a must-visit for its unique blend of modern architecture and cultural significance. This Buddhist temple isn’t just a place of worship; it’s also a center of learning and a museum of artifacts.

Why visit:

  • Admire the eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architecture
  • Explore the vast collection of Buddha statues and religious artifacts
  • Experience the serene Seema Malaka meditation center on Beira Lake

Learn more about Gangaramaya Temple

2. Galle Face Green: Colombo’s Iconic Seafront

Stretching along the coastline of Colombo, Galle Face Green is a popular urban park and promenade. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in the local atmosphere.

What to do:

  • Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade
  • Enjoy street food from local vendors
  • Watch a breathtaking sunset over the Indian Ocean
  • Try your hand at flying a kite, a popular local pastime

3. National Museum of Colombo: A Journey Through Time

Step back in time at the National Museum of Colombo, the largest museum in Sri Lanka. Housed in a stunning colonial-era building, it showcases the rich cultural heritage of the country.

Highlights:

  • Ancient artifacts from Sri Lanka’s royal cities
  • The throne and crown jewels of the Kandyan monarchs
  • Exhibits on colonial history and independence

Discover more about the National Museum

4. Pettah Market: A Shopper’s Paradise

For a taste of local life, head to Pettah Market. This bustling bazaar is a maze of streets, each dedicated to different goods.

Tips for visitors:

  • Bargain with a smile – it’s expected!
  • Try local fruits like mangosteen or rambutan
  • Visit early morning to avoid the midday heat

5. Beira Lake: An Urban Oasis

In the center of Colombo lies Beira Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by important landmarks. It’s a great place to escape the city’s hustle and bustle.

Things to do:

  • Take a boat ride on the lake
  • Visit the floating temple, Seema Malaka
  • Enjoy a picnic in the surrounding park

6. Independence Memorial Hall: A Tribute to Freedom

This national monument commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule. The impressive structure is inspired by the Celebration Hall of Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.

Why it’s special:

  • Stunning colonial architecture
  • Beautiful park surroundings perfect for a stroll
  • Houses the Independence Memorial Museum

7. Viharamahadevi Park: Colombo’s Green Lung

Formerly known as Victoria Park, this is the oldest and largest park in Colombo. It’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike.

Attractions within the park:

  • Golden Buddha statue
  • Children’s play area and mini zoo
  • Fountains and well-manicured gardens

8. Colombo Fort: Where History Meets Modernity

The Fort area is the financial district of Colombo, but it’s also steeped in history. Here, you’ll find a mix of colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers.

Don’t miss:

  • Old Colombo Lighthouse
  • Cargills Main Store, a beautiful example of British colonial architecture
  • The Old Parliament Building

9. Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara: A Sacred Buddhist Site

Just outside Colombo, this ancient temple is believed to have been hallowed by Buddha himself during his third visit to Sri Lanka.

What to see:

  • Beautiful murals depicting important events in Buddha’s life
  • The Bodhi tree, said to be a sapling from the sacred Bo tree in Anuradhapura
  • The annual Duruthu Perahera festival in January

10. Mount Lavinia Beach: Sun, Sand, and Sea

End your Colombo tour with a relaxing day at Mount Lavinia Beach. It’s one of the closest beaches to the city center and a favorite among locals and tourists.

Activities:

  • Swimming and sunbathing
  • Trying out water sports
  • Enjoying fresh seafood at beachside restaurants

You will be doing a walking tour through the beautiful city and busy areas such as Pettah on your foot. Afterwards, hop in a tuk-tuk and drive a few kilometres to the car park, where your luxury car awaits you. The rest of the Colombo city tour is a hop-on and hop-off gliding through the city.

Places to visit in Hikkaduwa and 4 other beautiful places to visit in Sri Lanka
Pristine beaches on the west coast

BENTOTA

Sri Lanka is a popular beach holiday destination and beaches on the island can be used for year-round beach holidays but depending on the time of the year you travel, it could be either the south-west coast, West coast or East best suited for your holiday.

Beach lovers particularly flock to Bentota beach and other Sri Lanka beach resorts on the west and southern coast seeking sun, sea and sand during the winter season in the northern hemisphere. Beaches on the east coast such as Nilaveli, and Passikudah come to the fore as a destination for beach holidays, from April to November, when it has a dry climate with fewer rainy days.

The light blue, translucent, warm salty waters of the Indian Ocean are the essence of Bentota beach holidays, on the west coast. Bentota beach is a strip of land surrounded by crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean and the less salty water of the Bentota River.

The Bentota beach of Sri Lanka is simply stunning, and fabulous restaurants with delicious sea food are plenty. Along with exploring the beaches, which is one of the best things to do in Bentota, there are so many other things to do in Bentota like rainforest exploration, visiting wildlife reserves, visiting cultural and historical sites, boating.. and so much more.

Today Bentota beach attracts a large number of foreign tourists and is capable of serving any type of budget. Bentota beach shows a noteworthy contrast as a beach holiday destination against Hikkaduwa and Unawatuna. Simply because Bentota beach is popular as a luxury beach holiday destination and most hotels in Bentota serves a rich clientele.

Mirissa beach sri lanka
Bentota beach

WHERE IS BENTOTA

Bentota beach, located on Sri Lanka’s west coast is a heaven for nature lovers, where they can experience rich bio-diversity, coral reefs, dolphins, whales, turtles, mangroves, iguanas, and an immense array of tropical bird species. Bentota beach had spurred a huge development in the past and it had become a full-blown beach holiday destination in the country.

WHAT ARE THE PLACES TO SEE IN BENTOTA?

11. Bentota Beach: The Crown Jewel

Bentota Beach is the main attraction of the town, known for its golden sands and clear waters.

Why you’ll love it:

  • Perfect for sunbathing and swimming
  • Variety of water sports available
  • Spectacular sunsets

12. Bentota River: A Nature Lover’s Delight

The Bentota River offers a different perspective of the area’s natural beauty.

Things to do:

  • Take a boat safari to spot wildlife
  • Visit a turtle hatchery
  • Try water skiing or jet skiing

13. Brief Garden: A Hidden Gem

Created by Bevis Bawa, the older brother of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, Brief Garden is a stunning example of tropical landscaping.

What makes it special:

  • Lush, meticulously maintained gardens
  • Interesting sculptures and artwork
  • The former country home of Bevis Bawa, now a museum

Learn more about Brief Garden

14. Lunuganga Estate: Geoffrey Bawa’s Country Home

The country home of Sri Lanka’s most famous architect, Geoffrey Bawa, is now open to the public. It’s a testament to his genius in blending architecture with nature.

Highlights:

  • Beautiful gardens and landscaping
  • Innovative architectural features
  • Guided tours available

15. Kande Vihara Temple: Spiritual Serenity

This Buddhist temple, situated on a hilltop, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.

What to expect:

  • Giant Buddha statue
  • Beautiful murals and paintings
  • Peaceful atmosphere for meditation

16. Bentota Turtle Hatchery: Conservation in Action

Learn about sea turtle conservation efforts and even help release baby turtles into the ocean at one of Bentota’s turtle hatcheries.

Why it’s important:

  • Educates visitors about sea turtle conservation
  • Opportunity to see different species of sea turtles
  • Chance to participate in turtle releases (seasonal)

17. Cinnamon Island: A Spice Lover’s Paradise

Take a boat trip to Cinnamon Island and learn about the spice that put Sri Lanka on the map centuries ago.

What you’ll experience:

  • See how cinnamon is harvested and processed
  • Learn about other local spices
  • Purchase authentic Sri Lankan spices

18. Bentota Lake: Watersports Central

For adrenaline junkies, Bentota Lake is the place to be. It’s a hub for various water sports activities.

Popular activities:

  • Wakeboarding
  • Banana boat rides
  • Jet skiing

19. Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project: Eco-Tourism at Its Best

Another great place to learn about sea turtle conservation and contribute to this important cause.

What they do:

  • Protect sea turtle nests
  • Rear weak hatchlings
  • Conduct awareness programs

Visit their website for more information

20. Richmond Castle: A Window to Colonial History

This early 20th-century mansion showcases a unique blend of Indian and British architecture.

Why visit:

  • Learn about Sri Lanka’s colonial history
  • Admire the intricate architecture and decor
  • Explore the beautiful surrounding gardens

Yoga and Meditation Centre

Sri Lankan people embrace being healthy and fit and meditation and yoga are two activities at the top of to-do activities. A large number of Ayurveda spas and Ayurveda hotels established on the beaches of Bentota offer a wide range of Ayurveda packages involved with Massage, Meditation and Yoga as well as the sauna. Well-trained instructors and Ayurveda practitioners combination of spa centres, meditation centres and Ayurveda therapy centres offer a wide range of interesting packages to complement a solid practice.

The Ayurveda centre, located hugging the pristine beaches, is just a walking distance from the main road. The Ayurveda centre offers a wide range of therapeutic packages for short vacationers as well as for resident guests. The rates are very competitive, and their rates are mostly below the average rate but offer superior service. Wake up early, take a flow class, then enjoy the rest of your day exploring the city.

HOW TO BOOK COLOMB BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR?

There are many options to book Colombo and Bentota package tours. The tour package can be booked via online booking portals. I have seen many similar kinds of tour packages online.

The tour package can be booked via local tour operators, which is the most reliable way of booking a tour to Sri Lanka. When you book the tour directly with the local tour operators, you are able to get the best price for the Sri Lanka tour package, because you can eliminate the high commission (25%) charged by the booking portals.

Places To Visit In Sri Lanka In 7 Days

HOW LONG COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR LASTS?

The Colombo Bentota package tour offered by Seerendipity tour lasts 5 days (4 nights), however, this is a private tour and it can be tailored to specific requirements. This Sri Lanka package tour allows you to explore Colombo and Bentota at your leisure. The tour includes many interesting places and it is necessary to have plenty of time to explore them in detail.

The same tour is available in short versions E.g. the guests can explore Colombo and Bentota on 2 days trip. The same tour package is also available as 3 days and 4 days tour packages.

WHAT TIME THE COLOMBO BENTOTA TOUR STARTS?

This Sri Lanka day outing starts from Colombo at 08.00 AM and the tour starts from the Colombo city hotel or the airport. However, the pick-time and location are flexible as it is a private tour. E.g. if you land early morning at the airport of Colombo we can arrange the pick up from the airport in early morning. However, the guest is not able to check in at the hotel until noon. 

The tour package has a perfect balance of city life and leisure. The guests are able to do shopping, and casinos and same time visit interesting places in one of the most popular cities in Asia. Towards the end of the trip, the travellers are able to enjoy the sun, sea and sand in one of the best beach resorts in Asia, Bentota.

madu river
Madu River estuary

WHAT ARE THE ACTIVITIES INCLUDED IN THE COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE?

  1. Colombo City tour
  2. Beach hopping
  3. Whale watching
  4. Boating
  5. Visiting historical monuments
  6. Visiting museums
  7. Walking tours
  8. Walking tour Galle fort
  9. Visiting Kande vihara temple

COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR ITINERARY

DAY 1 OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR AIRPOT-COLOMBO

Meet and greet by Seeredndipity tours representative at the airport and drive to the hotel in Colombo, Check-in the hotel and leisure. Later in the day you are able to explore the city on your own or have leisure at the hotel. The tour includes 2 nights in Colombo.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel in Colombo

Turtle Beach Sri Lanka
Green turtles

DAY 2 OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR COLOMBO CITY TOUR

After a leisurely and healthy breakfast at the hotel, leave for the Colombo sightseeing tour. The Colombo city tour includes visiting historical monuments, cultural sites, centuries-old colonial constructions and exploring the modern city life of Colombo.

A walking tour along the Bazar of Fort followed by visits to Vihara Mahadevi park, independent memorial hall, Old Parliament Building, Old Colombo Dutch Hospital and Lighthouse. Also, visit local shopping markets and gardens. Return back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Overnight stay will be at the hotel in Colombo

17 PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR
Mirissa harbour

DAY 3 OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR COLOMBO-BENTOTA:

After leisurely breakfast leave for the hotel in Bentota. The transfer to the beach hotel takes place along the picturesque coastal belt. There are a few steps to make before arriving at the beach hotel.

Bentota is a heaven for beach holiday lovers. The palm-fringed beaches and torque waters of the Indian Ocean are perfect for saltwater activities such as swimming, diving, snorkelling and various other water sports.  

VISITING SEA TURTLE CONSERVATION CENTERS

The first stop will be at the sea turtle conservation centre on Kosgoda beach. You will reach the Kosgoda sea turtle conservation centre after about 2 hours journey from Colombo. Sea turtle conservation is under the purview of volunteers coming from all around the world. There are few sea turtle conservation centres along the west coast beaches and they have launched various conservation projects to increase the populations of endangered sea turtles.

VISITING THE MADU RIVER ESTUARY

Boating in Madu estuary is a popular activity among travellers and it allows them to see mangroves, visit the cinnamon island, spot crocodiles, water monitors and many avian fauna species. During the boat trip, you will be exploring 2 mangrove lagoons and visiting Kothduwa island, which is one of the 64 islands in the estuary and has a historical temple.

Check in the hotels and leisure

COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR

DAY 4 OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR BENTOTA-GALLE-MIRISSA:

Early morning leave for Mirissa. The journey from the hotel starts at 04.00 AM and the journey takes around 2 hours 30 minutes. The beautiful beaches are one of the most striking features of Mirissa town, just south of the little town are the beautiful beaches with snow-white sandy beaches.

This tropical beach is a gem for green palms and peaceful retreats. Mirissa is not only popular for beach holidays but is also regarded as one of the prime spots in the tourism industry of Sri Lanka for whale and dolphin sightseeing.

Your whale-watching boat set sail at around 06.45 AM.

On your arrival, you will meet our reparative and will board the whale-watching boat after the completion of formalities. you will be served a delectable breakfast in your yacht/boat. After breakfast at around 06.45 set sail for the whale-watching boat trip.

This is a perfect opportunity to spot many species of whales in the vast Indian Ocean. You will also be able to witness many species of dolphins comprising of different colours and sizes.

The whale-watching boat tour lasts between 2 -4 hours. During the boat trip, you will be able to witness Blue whales, sperm whales, sea turtles and dolphins.

After the whale watching tour return to the hotel in Bentota. En route walking tour of Galle fort and stop at a mask museum.

VISITING MASK MUSEUM

Mask museum is located in Ambalangoda town, which is the most popular on the island for wood carving, mask carving, traditional dancing and puppetry. Mask carving is a traditional industry in Ambalangoda and it is being practised in the region for many thousands of years. Ambalangoda mask museum has a large collection of masks and some of them are dating back many thousands of years.

Check in the hotels and leisure

Visiting galle on a day trip from Colombo
Visiting Galle fort on Colombo Bentota package tour

DAY 5 OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR BENTOTA-COLOMBO

DAY 5 BENTOTA-COLOMBO: You have the freedom to stay in the beach resort until 12.00 PM. There will be no important activities planned for today’s program, except for the departure transfer. If you need to leave for the airport to catch the morning flight, we arrange your departure transfer as per your flight details.  

WHAT INCLUDES IN THE COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR?

EXCLUSIONS OF COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR

  • Flight tickets.
  • Personal expenses such as laundry, telephone calls, tips, porter-age etc.
  • Additional sightseeing or extra usage of vehicle, other than mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Early check-in & Late check-out.
  • Travel Insurance.
  • Meals are not mentioned in the itinerary.
  • Any other feature which is not mentioned in the “Cost includes” column.

WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR WITH SEERENDIPITY

Serendipity Tour is an entirely locally owned travel company with a head office in Colombo. The highly experienced local staff is a key strength of Serendipity Tours, and they can plan your dream holiday to Sri Lanka.

The best price guaranteed for your Sri Lanka trip

When you book a tour with Serendipity Tours, you directly book the tour with the local company, which means there are no middlemen and therefore you can guarantee the best price. Simply get in touch with us and let us know when you travel and what you like to see.

Plan your best Sri Lanka trip with-expert

Our staff makes a personalised program for you, which you can change until you find the best Sri Lanka trip package for you. Visit www.sirilaktours.com to browse our existing tour packages, which you can customise to meet all your expectations. Write to us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, tel. 0094-77-440977, WhatsApp 0094-77-4440977.

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One thought on “17 BEST PLACES TO SEE IN COLOMBO BENTOTA PACKAGE TOUR”

  1. Wonderful article on places to visit on a trip to Bentota from Colombo. We did this when we were in Colombo on a cruise ship. We booked the day trip from Colombo to Bentota with a local tour operatos and he did a great job. It was a wonderful one day tour and we stopped at many interesting places including madu estuary, sea turtle conservation project and Buddhist temple.

    Reply

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