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BEST PLACES FOR SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TOURS (2024)

Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)
sri lanka 13 days itinerary, Places to visit in Sri Lanka, Sri Lanak one day tours, Sri Lanka Tour Holidays

Got just one day to explore the Pearl of the Indian Ocean? No worries! While we’d love for you to stay longer (trust us, you’ll want to), we’ve got you covered with this action-packed guide to the best places for Sri Lanka one day tours, experiencing the best of Sri Lanka in just 24 hours. Buckle up, because we’re about to take you on a whirlwind tour of this tropical paradise!

The number of places to visit on one-day trips in Sri Lanka is endless. However, we have filtered some of the best one day trip places in Sri Lanka. These one day trip places in Sri Lanka were filtered considering their historical, natural, and cultural importance as well as their distance from Colombo. We have chosen the below-mentioned 5 Sri Lanka day trips to visit 5 important tourist attractions in Sri Lanka within one day. A large number of local operators, such as Serendipity Tours, organize day trips to these places from Colombo and most west coast tourist resorts.

Table of Contents

WHY VISIT SRI LANKA, EVEN FOR JUST A SAY?

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk about why Sri Lanka is worth your precious time:

  1. Diverse Landscapes: From beaches to mountains, you’ll see it all (well, a taste of it) in a day.
  2. Rich Culture: Ancient temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant local life await.
  3. Incredible Food: Your taste buds are in for a treat!
  4. Warm Hospitality: Sri Lankans are known for their friendliness.
  5. Compact size: At just 65,610 km², Sri Lanka is small enough to explore multiple sites in a day.
  6. Transportation: Well-connected roads and efficient public transport make getting around a breeze.

WHAT ARE THE TOP 5 PLACES FOR SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TOURS?

1. NEGOMBO
2. DOWN TOWN COLOMBO
3. KANDY
4. WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK
5. GALLE

SRI LANKA ONE DAY TOURS

The tropical island of Sri Lanka is diverse and full of adventure with its multi-cultural and multi-religious society. Why not take a few Sri Lanka day trips from Colombo or your resort and explore some interesting places on the island? From the palm-fringed, sandy beaches on the southwest coast to the enchanting landscapes in Sri Lanka’s hill country, the rugged terrain in Yala National Park, and the thousands of year-old ancient temples in the cultural triangle, this tropical nation offers something for everyone. Walk in the Sinharaja rain forest, cycle through the cobbled stone alleys of Galle Fort, explore the fascinating underwater world in Hikkaduwa Marine Sanctuary, or see the giant blue whales on a whale-watching tour. Here is a list of one-day trip places and one-day trips in Sri Lanka to experience the best Sri Lanka has to offer.

WHY SRI LANKA IS PERFECT FOR DAY TRIPS?

Before we jump into the specific locations, let’s talk about why Sri Lanka is ideal for day trips:

Affordable Sri Lanka one-day tours from Seerendipity Tours. Click www.seerendipitytours one-day trips for more information and many other one-day programs from Sri Lanka.

TOP 5 PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA WITHIN ONE DAY

There are a large number of places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day, but after considering their historical, natural, and cultural importance as well as the time it takes to reach them from Colombo, we have chosen the below-mentioned places for Sri Lanka day trips. This article is written under the heading “Top 10 places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day.”

Serendipity Tours receives a large number of emails with questions like “What are the best one-day trips in Sri Lanka?“, “Can we book a Sri Lanka day tour with you?” and “Can you give us more information on Sri Lanka day tours?“. We thought now was the time to formulate this post because the inquiries for the Sri Lanka one-day tours are, in fact, on an upward trend now. We hope to discuss in this article popular one-day trips in Sri Lanka and places to travel in Sri Lanka within one day. We hope this article will give you a solid start on planning your Sri Lanka day trip.

The recent upgrade to the Sri Lankan infrastructure, especially the expansion of the Sri Lanka highways, has enabled people to curtail their travel time to many faraway destinations, like Yala National Park, Kataragama Temple, Udawalawe National Park and Sigiriya Rock.

1. NEGOMBO: 37 KM FROM COLOMBO.

2. DOWN TOWN COLOMBO.

3. UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK: 257 KM FROM COLOMBO.

4. BENTOTA: 80 KM FROM COLOMBO.

5. KITULGALA: 99 KM FROM COLOMBO.

6. SINHARAJA RAIN FOREST: 145 KM FROM COLOMBO.

7. WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK: 166 KM FROM COLOMBO.

  1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, 175 km from Colombo, is 3 hours and 30 minutes drive from Colombo.

HOW CAN I BOOK ONE DAY TRIPS IN SRI LANKA?

You can reach us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

Affordable Sri Lanka one-day tours from Serendipity Tours. Click www.seerendipitytours one-day trips for more information and many other one-day programs from Sri Lanka.

WHAT TO CONSIDER WHEN PLANING ONE DAY TRIPS IN SRI LANKA?

When planning one-day tours from Colombo, it’s crucial to consider several factors to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience. By carefully considering the below factors, you can plan a well-rounded, enjoyable, and stress-free day trip from Colombo, making the most of your time in Sri Lanka. Here’s a detailed description of the key points to keep in mind:

  1. Distance and travel time: Colombo’s central location allows for many day trip options, but it’s important to choose destinations within a reasonable distance. Aim for places within a 3-4 hour drive to allow enough time for exploration. Sri Lankan roads can be congested, especially in urban areas, so factor in extra time for traffic delays, particularly when departing from and returning to Colombo.
  2. Transportation options: The choice of transportation can significantly impact your experience. A private car with a driver offers the most flexibility and comfort, allowing you to customize your itinerary. Public transportation, while more economical, may limit your flexibility and take longer. Organized tour packages can be a good middle ground, offering convenience and local expertise.
  3. Start time: An early start is crucial for day trips. This allows you to beat the traffic and arrive at your destination when attractions are less crowded. For some locations, like Sigiriya, consider sunrise tours for a unique experience and to avoid the midday heat.
  4. Weather and season: Sri Lanka’s weather can vary significantly by region and season. Check weather forecasts for your specific destination and be aware of monsoon patterns. The southwest monsoon affects the west and south coasts and hill country from May to September, while the northeast monsoon affects the north and east from December to February.
  5. Attraction opening hours: Verify the operating hours of the sites you plan to visit. Some attractions may have different hours during holidays or off-peak seasons. Also, note that some sites may close earlier than expected, especially in more remote areas.
  6. Clothing and equipment: Dress appropriately, especially for religious sites where modest attire is required. Bring sun protection, including hats and sunscreen, as well as insect repellent. Comfortable walking shoes are essential for many attractions.
  7. Meals and snacks: Plan your meal stops, especially if visiting remote areas where dining options may be limited. Carrying snacks and water is always a good idea to stay energized and hydrated throughout the day.
  8. Entrance fees and tickets: Research entrance fees in advance and check if pre-booking is required for popular attractions. Carry sufficient cash, as card payments may not be accepted at all locations.
  9. Local customs and etiquette: Familiarize yourself with basic cultural norms to show respect for local customs. This includes appropriate behavior at religious sites and understanding local gestures and customs.
  10. Return time: Plan your return journey to avoid late-night driving. Be aware that Colombo’s evening traffic can be heavy, so allow extra time for your return trip.
  11. Flexibility: Build some flexibility into your schedule to accommodate unexpected delays or spontaneous stops. This can often lead to some of the most memorable experiences of your trip.
  12. Group size: Consider the size and composition of your group when planning activities. Ensure that the itinerary is suitable for all members, considering factors like physical capabilities and interests.
  13. Combination of activities: Balance your day with a mix of activities to avoid exhaustion. Combine sightseeing with periods of relaxation or lighter activities.
  14. Local guide: A knowledgeable local guide can greatly enhance your experience, providing historical context, cultural insights, and navigating local customs.
  15. Emergency contacts: Keep a list of important contact numbers, including your hotel, tour operator, and emergency services. Having this information readily available can be crucial in unexpected situations.

1. ONE-DAY TRIPS IN SRI LANKA: BENTOTA WITH A CROCODILE SAFARI

Bentota is a popular beach resort in Sri Lanka. Bentota a part of most Sri Lanka multi-day tour packages, for example the Sri Lanka 14 days tour, Sri Lanka 10 days tour and the Sri Lanka 8 days tour.

This Sri Lanka one day tour package includes the Bentota River, Bentota Beach, the sea turtle conservation project, the ancient temple and a few other tourist attractions, where crocodile sightings are frequent, along with many other animals like monkeys, lizards, and snakes. You will be exposed to the untamed wilderness as you float through the mangrove lagoons, which are one of the biggest and last remaining mangrove habitats in Sri Lanka. A visit to spice gardens, a sea turtle conservation project, and Bentota Beach are also included in the trip.

Important: A boat tour is a very popular activity in Sri Lanka, and there are three main places where you can start the boat tour. The most popular is the Madu River safari; the second most popular is the Bentota River safari starting from Aluthgama Bridge; and the third boat safari starts from Kaluwamodara Bridge. By far the best safari is the one that starts at Kaluwamodara Bridge, especially if you wish to see crocodiles during the boat safari.

2. ONE DAY TRIPS IN SRI LANKA: WHALE WATCHING TRIP

Sri Lanka has become a whale-watching hot spot in the world, with guaranteed whale sightings on the trip. This one-day trip starts early (at 5:00 AM) from Colombo and other beach resorts, as you have to report to the Mirissa harbor by 6:00 AM. You will board the wide whale-watching boat from Mirissa harbor, and on a 2-4 hour trip, you will get to have a closer look at the blue whales. This one-day trip from Colombo also includes Galle Fort, sea turtle conservation, and Hikkaduwa Beach.

3. SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TOUR TO UDAWALAWE-SAFARI

This is one of the most popular wildlife tours on the island and allows you to have a closer look at the elephants. Udalawawe is popular for elephants, and there is a large concentration of wild elephants here. The elephant population is on the rise in Udawalawe as the elephant transit camp, which is a project to protect orphan elephants on the island, releases a large number of rehabilitated elephants into the jungle every year.

4. SRI LANKA DAY TOUR: SINHARAJA RAIN FOREST

Sinharaja is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and has the largest tract of primeval rain forest in the country. The forest covers 490 square kilometers. The Sinharaja rain forest is a super-diversity hot spot with a large concentration of fauna and flora. This Sri Lanka one-day trip includes all ground transportation, a nature guide to help you during the jungle trek, and all entrance fees.

5. SRI LANKA DAY TOUR: SIGIRIYA AND DAMBULLA

Sigiriya tour packages from Colombo are very popular among travelers in Sri Lanka. There is a high demand for one-day trips in Sri Lanka, mainly to the cultural triangle, and the Sigiriya one-day tour is one of the very popular trips among the travelers. Even though it is a one-day tour, this activity is packed with many interesting activities. The travelers are not only able to visit Sigiriya Rock on this Sri Lanka one-day tour but also many other places like Dambulla cave temple, Pidurangala temple, Ibbankatuwa ancient site, and Minneriya for safari. His Sri Lanka one-day trip to Sigiriya starts early in the morning from Colombo, at around 5:00 AM, due to the distance to cover on the journey.

You can reach us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking on the above-mentioned day tour.

SRI LANKA ONE DAY TOUR COLOMBO AND KANDY

While it’s challenging to experience the full breadth of Sri Lanka in just one day, you can still get a taste of its rich culture and natural beauty on this Sri Lanka one day tour.

On this Sri Lanka one day trip it is very important to start the trip early in the morning. Start in Colombo with a visit to the bustling Pettah Market, followed by a quick stop at the historic Gangaramaya Temple. Then, head to the iconic Independence Square for a glimpse of colonial architecture.

Next, drive to Kandy (about 3 hours), the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing a sacred tooth of Buddha. Take a stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake.

If time permits, make a brief stop at a spice garden en route to witness the diversity of Sri Lanka’s spices and learn about Ayurvedic medicine.

On the way back to Colombo, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to see rescued elephants up close.

End your day with a sunset walk along Galle Face Green in Colombo, enjoying the ocean breeze and perhaps sampling some local street food.

This itinerary offers a mix of cultural, natural, and urban experiences, giving you a snapshot of Sri Lanka’s diversity. However, it’s a very packed day and you’ll spend considerable time traveling. For a more relaxed experience, it’s recommended to spend several days exploring the island.

WHAT TIME SHOULD I START MY SRI LANKA DAY TRIP?

The starting time of your one-day trips in Sri Lanka is one of the essential facts for the success of your journey. This is very important if you stay in a hotel in Colombo. According to our estimate, tourists who undertake one-day trips in Sri Lanka have only about 4-5 hours to explore the tourist sites. The rest of the day is filled with travel, meals, etc.

Most one-day trips in Sri Lanka take 8–10 hours. Since the time available is only about 8–10 hours to see the tourist attractions and to drive up and down, the one-day trips in Sri Lanka are planned in such a way that time spent on traveling is minimized to its lowest ebb, thereby allowing tourists to explore the sites without a rush. Most one-day trips in Sri Lanka start early in the morning (around 5:00 a.m.) from Colombo.

If you stay in Colombo, you have to pass the borders of the city before the traffic builds up. It would take around 30 minutes for you to cross the borders of Colombo early in the morning from most hotels in Colombo. But, if you start your trip at around 7 a.m. from your hotel, you will be stuck in traffic, and it will take as many as 2 hours for you to escape from Colombo, thereby losing a lot of time.

Even outside of major cities like Colombo, it is easy to drive in the early hours due to the absence of a lot of vehicles and people on the road. On the other hand, it is very comfortable for the passengers due to the smooth drive.

Yet, now that we have highways in Sri Lanka allowing us to drive up to 100km per hour, the starting time of a few one-day tours has changed. The starting times of the popular Sri Lanka day trips from Colombo are listed below.

WE SUGGEST YOU TO START YOUR ONE DAY TRIP IN SRI LANKA AS INDICATED BELOW

The above-mentioned pick-up times are valid for trips organized with a private taxi and with an experienced tourist driver or guide (who knows the roads well for the tourist attractions). The starting time of the whale-watching trip can’t be delayed as the boat sets sail in Mirissa on time. It is highly advised not to delay the Sigiriya-Dambulla day trip so that the passengers can climb the Sigiriya rock and Dambulla temple in the early morning and avoid the scorching midday heat.

STARTING TIME OF THE DAY TRIP FROM THE BEACH HOTEL

The starting time of the day trip from beach resorts is usually the same as the starting time from Colombo. However, depending on the location of your resort, either on the west coast or the southern coast, the starting time may vary; e.g., the Galle day trip from Colombo starts at 06.30 AM, while the Galle day trip from Bentota starts at 07.30 AM. The passengers need to consult the local tour operator to know the exact pickup time from their resort.

Kitulgala one-day tour includes Whitewater rafting (2 hours) and a rain forest trek in the rain forest of Kitulgala. The tour includes entire ground transportation from Colombo or the beach hotel, all entrance and activity fees, a live guide and all taxes.

WHAT ARE THE TOP 5 PLACES FOR ONE-DAY ADVENTURE TRIPS IN SRI LANKA?

HOW TO BOOK ONE DAY SRI LANKA ADVENTURE TOURS?

You can reach us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or by phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

1. A ONE-DAY ADVENTURE TRIP FROM SRI LANKA TO KITULGALA

Kitulgala is better known as the adventure playground of Sri Lanka. Kitulgala attracts the most adventure enthusiasts on the island. The remote adventure holiday spot with a rocky outcrop provides all the ingredients for many adrenaline-pumping activities such as water rafting, canoeing, mountain climbing, waterfall abseiling, and many other activities.

To allow foreign and local travelers alike to enjoy this unique destination, a day trip from Colombo to the west coast hotels of Sri Lanka has been launched by Serendipity Tours. This one-day trip includes many interesting features, such as 2 hours of trekking in the rain forest with bird watching, 2 hours of whitewater rafting, canoeing, and trekking through the remote village, accompanied by a delicious local lunch.

Kitulgala is one of the best places for a one-day adventure trip from Colombo. It takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes to reach Kitulgala from Colombo. This jungle-rich countryside is located in the western province of Sri Lanka, which means that it can be conveniently reached from the most popular beach holiday destinations on the western and southern coasts of Sri Lanka.

Kitulgala is also very close to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya, making it easy to reach destinations in Sri Lanka’s upcountry. So if you are also looking for a one-day adventure trip from Colombo, you should seriously think of Kitulgala for your one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka.

IF YOU NEED MORE INFORMATION ON THIS ADVENTURE TRIP, PLEASE READ MY ARTICLE UNDER THE TITLE “KITULGALA BOAT RAFTING AND ADVENTURE“.

2. A ONE-DAY ADVENTURE TRIP FROM SRI LANKA TO NUWARA ELIYA

Nuwara Eliya is the most popular mountain resort on the island and is an ideal venue for a one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka. Nestled up in the hills, 1800 meters above sea level, Nuwara Eliya has a large collection of places for thrilling adventures.

Whether you are staying in Kandy or in a beach resort in the deep south of Sri Lanka, you can easily reach Nuwara Eliya thanks to the well-developed road network. Hiking, trekking, mountain climbing, boating, horseback riding, waterfall abseiling, and golfing are some of the popular activities here.

3. A ONE-DAY ADVENTURE TRIP FROM COLOMBO TO ELLA

Ella, better known as a mountain backpacker’s paradise, is one of the most popular mountain resorts on the island. Ella is still a laid-back village and harbors many mountains, valleys, tea plantations, waterfalls, and patches of forest.

Mountain climbing, water rafting, waterfall abseiling, trekking, and hiking are the most popular activities in Ella. Ella can be used as a place for a one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka from most parts of the island.

4. A ONE-DAY ADVENTURE TRIP FROM COLOMBO TO ADAM’S PEAK

Adam’s Peak is one of the most popular places on the islands for a one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka. A large number of travelers undertake the one-day adventure trip to Adam’s Peak from Colombo, west coast beach resorts, south coast beach resorts, and Kandy.

The Adams Peak hike, part slog and part trek in the high altitude, the journey to this holy mountain—the 3rd tallest free-standing mountain of Sri Lanka—lures thousands of trekkers every year. Beginning amid lush green foliage on Sri Lanka’s heavily cultivated lower slopes, the hike continues up through dense, dripping rain forests to cloud forests and crosses fascinating landscapes with perennial waterways, large boulders, and small eateries that serve the hikers.

The final stage (about 100 meters) is the steepest part of the climb; however, properly laid stairs make it easy to conquer the mountain. The climb starts around midnight, culminating with sunrise views from the summit over the plains far below. The cold, wet conditions and high altitude of the mountain may make it a difficult trek and a serious undertaking.

Hiking at Adam’s Peak is a highly seasonal one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka. The best time for this one-day adventure trip is from November to April.

5. A ONE-DAY TRIP IN SRI LANKA FROM COLOMBO TO BENTOTA

If you are interested in water sports, mainly saltwater-based activities such as surfing, boating, sea fishing, windsurfing, diving, snorkeling, boating, and other water sports, you better head on to the west and south coasts of Sri Lanka.

There are hundreds of places on the south and west coasts that are ideal for a one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka. Scuba diving, snorkeling, surfing, paragliding, canoeing, and rafting are some of the popular activities here.

HOW TO BOOK ONE DAY TOUR TO BENTOTA FROM COLOMBO?

You can reach us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

SRI LANKA DAY TOUR TO YALA NATIONAL PARK AND UDAWALAWE NATIONAL PARK

Exploring the rich wildlife of Sri Lanka is one of the most thrilling adventures for travelers. Sri Lanka day tours from Colombo to Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park are very popular among wildlife enthusiasts. Both day tours start in Colombo early in the morning and return to Colombo on the same day.

With the completion of the southern motorway, it has become easy to drive to most tourist attractions in southern Sri Lanka, including Yala National Park and Udawalawe National Park.

If you need more information on a one-day trip to Udawalawe National Park and Yala National Park, please click the below links.

Udawalawe safari one-day tour, this private tour starts from Colombo and other tourist hotels on the west coast. The tour includes an all-inclusive Udawalawe safari, entire ground transportation, a live guide, all entrance fees, and taxes.

Even though Sri Lanka is not a top-notch destination for wildlife holidays, this tropical island offers an opportunity to spot a large number of wild animals, such as leopards, elephants, bears, and crocodiles. Among a little more than a dozen wildlife reserves, only a few are being used for Sri Lanka safaris. Yala National Park, Wilpattu National Park, Udawalawe National Park, Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, and Eco-Park are the most popular Sri Lanka safaris. However, due to travel time from Colombo, we suggest the below national parks for your Sri Lanka day tour.

SRI LANKA A DAY TOUR TO THE WEST COAST OF SRI LANKA

Sri Lanka’s west coast is popular for holidays, and the beaches of Bentota and Hikkaduwa are beach vacation hot spots in the island. However, Sri Lanka’s west coast offers a lot more than pristine, sandy, palm-fringed beaches. There are many dozens of important tourist attractions on the west coast, such as temples, historical monuments, forts, lakes, museums, mangrove forests, marine sanctuaries, etc. The Bentota one-day tour and the Galle one-day tour are the two most popular Sri Lanka day trips to explore the West Coast.

BENTOTA ONE-DAY TOUR

GALLE ONE DAY TOUR

DURATION OF THE DAY TRIP TO BENTOTA

Bentota Beach, which lies 100 kilometers south of Colombo, is the most popular beach on the west coast. Therefore, this Sri Lanka day trip to Bentota from Colombo is on the bucket list of most visitors to Colombo. Usually, the tour starts around 7:00 a.m. from Colombo and ends around 5:00 p.m. in the afternoon.

Serendipity Tours organizes regular day tours to Bentota from Colombo. This Sri Lanka one-day tour includes the below-mentioned places:

HOW DO WE VISIT TOP 10 ONE DAY TRIP PLACES ON SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TRIPS?

You can reach us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

With only one day at your disposal, you can not do much on the island; you can barely scratch the surface. Don’t try to add too many things to your road trip because you have to calculate the time to be spent on travel. You can easily overlook the time required for travel due to the interesting attractions that you encounter on the trip. After all, you need considerable time to study the places you visit.

In this article, we are not only discussing 10 places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day but also the important attractions in each place, giving you the full picture of these 10 Sri Lanka day trips.

You can easily explore all ten of these places on one-day tours from Colombo, from the airport, or from the most popular beach resorts such as Bentota, Kalutara, and Negombo. So you can consider adding a few of the Sri Lanka day tours listed below to your holiday package when you plan your next short holiday in Sri Lanka.

ESCAPE FROM THE ROUTINE LIFE WITH ONE OF THESE ONE-DAY TRIPS

After days of hard and routine work, you might have gotten a short break from the office, and a short sightseeing tour is the need of the hour. An excursion of one or two days is the best option for you.

PLAN YOUR SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TRIP WITH EXPERT

If it is well planned, you will be able to see some of the very beautiful places in Sri Lanka within this short period. At the same time, make use of it to get away from tension and stress or daily routine office work; all these places have plenty of activities to keep you busy. So planning is a critical factor for the success of your one-day trip. That’s why you should get the assistance of experienced travel staff at Serendipity Tours.

There are many places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day. Choosing the best places to explore based on what you like most can be a relaxing time on the beach, adrenaline-pumping activities like water rafting, or watching giant blue whales.

Perhaps you are in Sri Lanka on an official visit and would like to experience some interesting things. Or you are in transit, waiting for your flight to the next destination, and looking for a Sri Lanka tour operator such as Serendipity Tours to book a short trip from Colombo.

Whatever your requirements, it is good to have a short tour. Great idea, right? Having time constraints due to office work, scheduled meetings, or scheduled flights, a short tour from Colombo seems to be the ideal option and, of course, well deserved too.

If there are constraints on the availability of time, plan for a short gateway to the nearest yet most interesting place from Colombo. With a tour of one or two days, you will be able to explore some interesting places nearby, take part in interesting activities, experience Sri Lanka shopping, indulge in a refreshing Ayurveda course, gorge on some delicious Sri Lankan fresh seafood, relax on the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka, etc.

We discuss only 10 one-day trip places in Sri Lanka, but there are many other places that you can visit on a day trip from Colombo or from the west coast beach resorts. Each place caters to travelers with different tastes. For instance, if you book the Kitulgala one-day adventure tour, which is the best one-day adventure trip in Sri Lanka and offers you many possibilities with regards to adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, mountain climbing, and waterfall abseiling, if you head on to Udawalawe or Yala, you can do a jeep safari. So consider what each destination offers before you finalize the place for your Sri Lanka one-day tour.

Choose the best vehicle for your one-day tour in Sri Lanka from a wide range of vehicles such as sedans, SUVs, mini-coach, micros, etc. We provide all kinds of vehicles at affordable rates.

CHOOSING THE BEST WAY TO TRAVEL DURING YOUR SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TRIP

Pay special attention to transport and find the best way to get around on your Sri Lanka day tour. Stick to private transport with a local driver because transport can suck up your time and totally mess up your day tour.

Taxi or private transport is the best way of getting around Sri Lanka; it is safe, and most importantly, it saves time, but the acute shortcoming of the taxi is the cost that it involves.

You have to reduce the time spent traveling since you have only limited time for the tour. You can use transport modes such as trains and public buses, but they might not be the best options for you. Though they are very affordable, they take a lot of time to travel between cities and are always behind schedule, so you might end up having no time for sightseeing.

So, pack your bag and make it all ready to treat yourself and enjoy life at its best during the brief vacation. Serendipity Tours offers many day trips from Colombo, and with those tours, you can explore most of these places chosen by the author as places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day.

Sinharaja rainforest’s day tour starts from Colombo and other major tourist hotels on the West Coast. The travellers will be able to trek through the virgin rainforest of Sinharaja and encounter thousands of tropical trees, plants, veins, and orchids. Sinharaja harbours many hundred bird species too. You will get a guided walking tour of the forest with our nature guide, who explains to you the unique environment of the forest. The trip includes entire ground transportation, all entrance fees, a live guide, and taxes.

PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA WITHIN ONE DAY FROM COLOMBO

There are a large number of places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day when you start your day trips from Colombo. The below-mentioned day trips from Colombo offer some thrilling options. Plan your day trips from Colombo to the picturesque mountains with tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya and Kandy or the idyllic beach resorts on the west and southern coasts to unwind, seek out activities, and receive divine blessings.

1. NEGOMBO IS TOP ON THE LIST OF PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA WITHIN ONE DAY.

This 7 days beach holiday package is based on a 4-star beach resort on the west coast of Sri Lanka. The beach holiday package includes arriva1/departure transfers on a luxury vehicle, daily breakfast, and dinner as well as all government taxes.

The distance to cover this one-day tour from Colombo is 40 km. 
Time spent on the trip from Colombo: 1 hour (10 minutes from the airport).

The Negombo day trip is one of the easiest one-day trips in Sri Lanka; perhaps it is the most convenient day trip from Colombo and the airport. Negombo, the beach city of Sri Lanka near the Colombo international airport, is one of the most sought-after beach holiday destinations in Sri Lanka.

Negombo is one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in one day due to its proximity to Colombo. It is just a 10-minute drive from the airport and about a 1-hour drive from Colombo; this close proximity makes it one of the best places for a day trip from Colombo, even if you stay only a few hours on the island.

The beaches of Negombo attract travelers of all ages. The beautiful, pristine beaches, affordable accommodations, restaurants, pubs, cafes, shopping, and recreation activities are the main attributes that make Negombo a favorite.

NEGOMBO FISH MARKET

The fish market is one of the must-visit attractions in Negombo. Negombo is very rich in many varieties of fish, and fishing is the major livelihood of most people here. Try to hit the fish market in the early hours to finalize the best experience. Behind the fish market, adjoining the sea, is flat land reserved for fish drying. A large amount of fish is scattered over the vast land and left to dry under the scorching heat of the sun.

NEGOMBO TEXTILE MARKET

The textile market is another must-visit attraction in Negombo. A large number of shops are lined up along the main road, and they are full of clothes, handicrafts, food items, etc.

ST.MARY’S CHURCH NEGOMBO

Among a large number of places to visit, this Catholic church is a must-visit in Negombo. Built in 1886, the large crucifix in the church is the most important object in the church.

MUTHURAJAWELA WETLAND

Negombo is located near the beach; hence, it is popular as a beach holiday destination, but Negombo is also a place to explore the rich wildlife of Sri Lanka due to its proximity to the Muthurajawela wetland. The wetland harbors a large number of aquatic bird species, animals such as crocodiles, and many flora species. Muthurajawela is most popular as a destination for bird watching.

NEGOMBO BEACH, LEWIS ROAD

Negombo is one of the best places for beach holidays on the west coast. The shallow water and palm-fringed beaches with snow-white sand are heaven for beach holiday lovers.

SOME OTHER IMPORTANT PLACES TO VISIT ON THE SRI LANKA DAY TOUR TO NEGOMBO

Negombo Lagoon, Dutch Canal, Dutch Fortress, Fish market

The prices of the Negombo one-day tour are without entrance fees, boat hire charges, or meals. Single supplement: US$ 10.

  1. Negombo city tour from Negombo beach: Price: US$ 40 per person
  2. City tour of Negombo from Colombo: Price: US$ 60 P.
  3. One-day Negombo tour from Kalutara: price US$ 80 P.P.
  4. Negombo day tour from Bentota: Price: US$ 95 P.P.
  5. Day tour of Negombo from Hikkaduwa/Galle: Price: US$ 120 P.P.

RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON NEGOMBO ONE DAY TOUR

You can contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

2. PLACES TO VISIT IN SRI LANKA WITHIN ONE DAY: DOWNTOWN COLOMBO

Colombo city center is also one of the best places to visit in Sri Lanka in one day. The city offers a large number of places to visit and many activities to keep you busy during the day and night.

Colombo is the commercial hub of Sri Lanka and the busiest city in the country. This economic hub on the island has a fascinating blend of new and old. You can see high-rise modern skyscrapers next to historical buildings dating back to the first half of the 18th century. Colombo City is one of the best places for an unforgettable shopping experience.

Distance from Colombo International Airport: 35 km 
Time required on this one-day tour from the international airport to Colombo city: 1 hour

WHAT ARE THE 10 PLACES TO VISIT ON THE COLOMBO CITY TOUR?

PETTAH BAZAAR COLOMBO

The bazaar area of Pettah is one of the must-visit places in Colombo if you fancy shopping in Sri Lanka. The colorful market is full of imported and local products. The diversity of products is great, as is the price. Virtually everything is available on the island. Clothing, leather products, gems and jewelers, tea, and Ayurveda—you name it—can be bought in Pettah.

WOLVENDAAL CHURCH COLOMBO

The Dutch colonial administration of Sri Lanka constructed Wolvendaal Church in the 1600s. The church is built at the highest point in Colombo. The church is one of the oldest churches on the island.

GANGARAMA TEMPLE, COLOMBO

Majestically standing on the bank of Beira Lake, this magnificent temple is one of the oldest Buddhist institutions in the city. It has a very calm and serene atmosphere, identical to a religious place, though the temple is located in the busiest city in the country. The pompous temple differs in many ways from other Buddhist temples in the country. Don’t forget to visit the museum of the Gangarama temple, which has a large number of objects of high value.

Buddhist temples are sacred places, and visitors need to have a proper dress code so that they can uphold the sacredness of the religious site. If you are foreign to Sri Lanka and wondering what the Sri Lanka temple dress code and temple rules are, check out this article: “13 Rules You Should Break When Visiting Sri Lanka Buddhist Temples AND Sri Lanka Temple Dress Code.“.

VIHARAMAHADEVI PARK, COLOMBO

The park is a green oasis and provides shelter for thousands of visitors to Colombo. A large tract of land with huge trees and plants helps you forget the hustle and bustle of Colombo. This is a place to have a peaceful time in Colombo. The well-laid park has running tracks, play areas, waterfalls, a cafeteria, and hundreds of bunks in the shade.

INDEPENDENT MEMORIAL HALL

The remembrance of Sri Lanka’s independence These are the places where the first independent parliament of Sri Lanka was summoned. The building is built according to typical Sri Lankan architecture.

GALLE FACE GREEN COLOMBO

Galle Face Beach is the major beach in the city, with a huge open area. As the name suggests, it is a huge area covered with grass, though it is a beach bordering the ocean. Galle’s Face is a popular place to perform various sports and have family gatherings.

5 OTHER PLACES TO VISIT ON A COLOMBO CITY TOUR

The price of the Colombo one-day tour does not include entrance fees or meals. Single supplement: US$ 40

  1. Colombo city tour from Colombo/Negombo: US$ 40 P.P.
  2. Colombo day tour from Kalutara/Bentota: US$ 60 p.p.
  3. Colombo day tour from Hikkaduwa/Galle: US$ 80 P.P.

RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON COLOMBO ONE DAY TOUR

You can contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

3. VISITING KANDY ON A SRI LANKA DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO

Kandy one day tour is one of the most popular trips in Sri Lanka, especially among foreign travelers. Kandy is also one of the best places to visit on a Sri Lanka day tour. Kandy differs in many ways from all other places that are identified as places to visit in Sri Lanka within one day, mainly due to its location in the mountains.

Kandy lies 500 meters above sea level and has a cool climate. Kandy is among the few places in the mountains that can be explored on a day tour from Colombo and beach resorts. This one-day trip from Colombo will not be a relaxing trip; it is full of activities.

CAN I BOOK KANDY ONE-DAY TOUR FROM COLOMBO?

Kandy one day trip can be booked from Colombo as well as 400+ other beach resorts on the west and south coast.

KANDY ONE DAY TOUR IN A NUTSHELL

WHAT TO SEE ON THE KANDY ONE DAY TOUR?

Kandy is one of the most picturesque gateways to Colombo. Kandy is a cultural and historical city with a colonial touch—essentially British influence. Kandy is the home of the most venerated Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka and a Mecca for Sri Lankan Buddhists.

SRI LANKA DAY TOURS TO KANDY FROM COLOMBO: WHAT ARE THE PLACES TO VISIT?

TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH RELIC

The tooth relic temple is the most sacred Buddhist temple on the island, and the left eye tooth of Buddha is supposed to be residing there. The temple has a rich historical past and stands beside Kandy Lake.

ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDEN

The biggest botanical garden in Sri Lanka dates back to the Kandyan kingdom. Today it is a research center, botanical garden, herbarium, and picnic place.

SRI LANKA DAY TOURS TO KANDY FROM COLOMBO: VISITING A TEA FACTORY

Tea is one of the major export goods in Sri Lanka; perhaps you don’t know that the world-renowned Ceylon tea is produced here. Sri Lanka is the home of Ceylon tea, and the best Ceylon tea comes from the upcountry of Sri Lanka. The well-maintained tea garden is very attractive and photogenic.

SRI LANKA DAY TOURS TO KANDY FROM COLOMBO: VISITING ELEPHANT PARK

Most day trips from Colombo to Kandy include the Pinnawala elephant orphanage. Pinnawala is one of the places included in most road trips in Sri Lanka, too. Here, you can see the largest herd of tamed elephants in the world. The number of animals in the herd now exceeds 80.

A FEW OTHER IMPORTANT PLACES TO VISIT ON SRI LANKA DAY TOURS TO KANDY FROM COLOMBO

The prices of the Kandy one-day tour do not include entrance fees and meals. Single supplement: US$ 40

  1. Negombo one-day tour from Colombo: US$ 80 P.P.
  2. Negombo one-day tour from Kalutara/Bentota: US$ 100 per person
  3. One-day Negombo tour from Hikkaduwa/Galle: US$ 120 per person

RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON KANDY ONE DAY TOUR

You can contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

Udawalawe one wildlife tour can be booked from Colombo hotels and 400+ other beach resorts on the west coast of Sri Lanka

4. SRI LANKA DAY TOUR: VISITING WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK

The distance to cover from Colombo is 166 km. 
Time taken on the tour from Colombo: 3 hours

IMPORTANT FACTS ABOUT WILPATTU

Area: 317 sq km 
Annual Average Temperature: 27.7°C Annual Rainfall: 1000mm 
The Best Time of the Year To Visit: October to May 
visiting hours: 6:00 a.m.–6:00 p.m.

The Wilpattu National Park Day Tour is one of the most interesting one-day trips in Sri Lanka. This is the only national park that I chose as one of the places to visit in Sri Lanka in one day. You need to do 2-day trips from Colombo in order to explore most other popular national parks on the island, such as Yala.

THE VILLUS, WHICH IS UNIQUE TO WILPATTU

Located at the northwest corner of the island, Wilpattu National Park is one of the least explored wildlife reserves on the island. It was closed to visitors for many decades due to the civil war in northern Sri Lanka.

One of the important characteristics of the park that differs from most other national parks in Sri Lanka is the existence of willus (natural lakes). These are shallow water holes with a sandy soil rim that store water during the shower. They provide valuable services as the main water storage in the park for all kinds of creatures.

FAUNA OF WILPATTU

Fauna: 31 species of animals can be seen here, such as leopards, sloth bears, elephants, sambhur, wild buffalo, mongooses, spotted deer, crocodiles, and monkeys.

FLORA OF WILPATTU

Flora: many types of vegetation are to be found here, including littoral trees and plants such as salt grass, scrubs, and dry zone forest trees such as Weera, Palu, Milla, satin, Wewarna, and ebony.

AVIAN FAUNA SPECIES OF WILPATTU

Birds: A large number of avian fauna species have been identified in Wilpattu National Park. There are many endemic birds among them. Sri Lankan jungle fowl (Gallus lafayetii), little cormorants, the painted stork, the open bill, terns, and gulls, along with many species of owls, kites, buzzards, and eagles, are very common here.

Some of the wetland birds, such as cattle egret (Bubulcus ibis), black-headed ibis (Threskiornis malanocephalus), spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia), pintail (Anas acuta), whistling teal (Dendrocygna javanica), garganey (Anas querquedula), purple heron (Ardea purpurea), and large white egret, can also be seen here.

Reptiles and Amphibians: Gunther’s Cat Skink, Deccan Ground Gecko, Malabar Pit Viper, Humayun’s Wrinkled Frog, Beddome’s Lacerta, Bombay Bush Frog, etc.

A FEW OTHER PLACES TO VISIT ON A SRI LANKA DAY TOUR TO WILPATTU FROM COLOMBO

The prices of the one-day tour to Wilpattu National Park Safari do not usually include entrance fees, Jeep hires, or meals; however, you can book the same-day tour with the inclusion of entrance, Jeep hire, and all other expenses. This Sri Lanka one-day tour to visit Wilpattu National Park can be booked mainly in the below-mentioned variations. The cost of the tour differs depending on the starting location.

  1. One-day tour of Wilpattu from Colombo or Negombo
  2. Wilpattu day tour from Kalutara/Bentota
  3. Wilpattu one-day tour from Hikkaduwa/Galle

RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON WILPATTU ONE DAY TOUR

You can contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

5. SRI LANKA DAY TOURS TO GALLE FROM COLOMBO

Distance from Colombo: 118km 
Time required to travel from Colombo: 3 hours

GALLE

Just a little over 100 kilometers south of Colombo, Galle is the capital of southern Sri Lanka, with its pristine beaches and hopping nightlife. Galle has a dose of history as well. Over the course of many millennia, many traders from Persia, Greece, Mesopotamia, China, India, and the Arab world visited the ancient seaport of Galle, which was a stop on the ancient sea trade route. Today, Galle is a popular tourist attraction with hundreds of kilometers of pristine beaches, forts, temples, patches of forest, rivers, lakes, and water sports centers.

ONE-DAY GALLE CITY TOUR FROM COLOMBO

Galle’s one-day tour is one of the most popular day trips from Colombo. Galle is the capital of southern Sri Lanka and is located near the southern border of the country. Galle is an important place of interest among travelers due to the Galle Fort and other natural attractions. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 15th century and later expanded by the Dutch administration in Sri Lanka (1656–1796).

Today, Galle Fort is a UNESCO world heritage site, and it is a huge city with a large number of buildings and palaces built after old Dutch architecture. Today, most of these old houses and palaces are converted into hotels, guest houses, rest houses, shops, museums, and galleries.

You can wander around the Fort for many hours while exploring the museums, galleries, souvenir shops, textile shops, cafes, restaurants, churches, and temples. Galle Fort is a well-planned, protective city with a huge wall and hundreds of buildings with a sea view.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT PLACES TO VISIT ON THE SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TRIP TO GALLE?

VISITING THE MARITIME MUSEUM ON A GALLE DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO

The Dutch East India Company’s storage facility houses the Galle maritime museum, which is a part of Galle Fort. A large number of artifacts have been displayed here.

GALLE DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO: VISITING THE MARTIN WICKRAMASINGHE MUSEUM

The Martin Wickramasinghe Museum is a folk museum that showcases the life patterns of the people of Galle. There are a large number of exhibits discovered in southern Sri Lanka, all of which are closely connected to the day-to-day lives of common people.

GALLE DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO: VISITING MADU RIVER ESTUARY

Madu River is a Ramsar wetland and an important ecological asset of the island. The Madu River provides shelter to endangered mangroves, and a large extent of mangrove forest can be found along the river bank. A large number of aquatic bird species, as well as many types of animal species such as water monitors, crocodiles, and monkeys, can also be spotted here.

GALLE DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO: EXPLORING HIKKADUWA BEACH

Hikkaduwa is one of the most popular beach resorts on the west coast. Hikkaduwa is most popular for its coral reefs and the fascinated underwater world off the shore. Glass-bottom boating is a popular activity among the visitors here, which enables them to see large coral reefs with many fish species in the shallow water.

GALLE DAY TRIP FROM COLOMBO: VISITING MASK MUSEUM

The Galle trip from Colombo is one of the most popular one-day trips in Sri Lanka, and visiting moonstone mines is an interesting activity included in the Galle tour. Moonstone is a semi-precious stone with a grade of 4. This milky-colored semi-precious stone can be found only in Ambalangoda, near Hikkaduwa. A large number of people in Hikkaduwa make precious jewelry with moonstones, and jewelry making has become a leading cottage industry in the area. Many small shops sell gems and jewelers in Ambalangoda. Some of the jewelry is fastened with moonstones, and some of it is studded with other precious stones such as sapphires, blue sapphires, amethyst, aquamarine, etc.

A FEW OTHER PLACES TO EXPLORE ON SRI LANKA DAY TRIPS FROM COLOMBO TO GALLE

This one-day trip can be booked with Serendipity, and the package includes all ground transportation, an English-speaking guide, and entrance fees. A Galle one-day tour can be booked from many other places on the west coast. However, this Sri Lanka day trip is exclusive to a private tour group.

The tour can be booked at beach resorts, and the price varies depending on the hotel you are staying at. If you need more information on this one-day trip, please write to us at admin@seerendipitytpours.com.

  1. Sri Lanka: One-day tour of Galle from Colombo or Negombo
  2. Sri Lanka Galle one-day tour from Kalutara/Bentota
  3. Galle one-day tour from Hikkaduwa

RESERVATIONS AND MORE INFORMATION ON GALLE ONE DAY TOUR

You can contact us at admin@seerendipitytours.com, WhatsApp at 0094 77-440977, or phone at 0094 77-4440977 for more information and booking.

A ONE-DAY TRIP TO THE CULTURAL TRIANGLE: IS IT POSSIBLE?

A one-day trip to the cultural triangle is possible from Colombo; however, the travelers need to start the trip at around 05.00 from Colombo. This is mainly due to the distance to cover from Colombo to the north-central province. Even with the very early morning starts, you will not be able to visit all major cultural and historical sites within a day; you will be able to see a few chosen sites. On a one-day trip to the cultural triangle, you can visit the Sigiriya rock fortress and Dambulla golden temple, Polonnaruwa historical city, or Anuradhapura ancient city. As an experienced tour operator, we strongly recommend you allocate time and money for at least a 2-day cultural triangle tour; thereby, you will be able to visit a few important sites and have plenty of time to explore them.

If you are looking for a one-day Sri Lanka tour similar to what we have published above, please don’t hesitate to contact us; we can help you plan the best Sri Lanka tour package for you.

SUSTAINABLE TOURISM IN SRI LANKA

As you explore this beautiful island, remember to practice responsible tourism:

MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR SRI LANKA DAY TRIP

Whether you choose to explore ancient ruins, spot wildlife, or immerse yourself in colonial history, Sri Lanka offers unforgettable experiences that can be enjoyed even in just one day. By choosing one of these destinations and planning carefully, you can have a rich, fulfilling experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.

Remember, while it’s possible to see a lot in one day, Sri Lanka deserves more time if you can spare it. Each of these destinations could easily fill several days of exploration. But if one day is all you have, make it count with one of these incredible locations!

WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK YOUR SRI LANKA ONE-DAY TRIP WITH SERENDIPITY?

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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