Colombo: City Tour on a Private Car- Full Day & Half Day

Exploring the vibrant city of Colombo has never been easier. Travelers can now discover its iconic attractions on a private car tour, available in both full-day and half-day options. With personalized itineraries and flexible schedules, this tour promises an immersive experience. From the serene Gangaramaya Temple to the bustling Independence Square, the tour showcases Colombo’s rich cultural heritage and modern charm. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this guided journey is sure to captivate your senses and leave you yearning for more.

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Key Points

Full-day and half-day private car tour options are available, with pricing starting at $73.69 per group (up to 3 people).
The tour includes visits to popular attractions like Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Independence Square, and the National Museum of Colombo.
Pickup from hotels or specified addresses is included, with an additional charge for pickups over 5 km from the city limits and a $30 fee for airport pickups.
The tour provides comfortable and safe transportation with friendly guides, and water bottles and umbrellas are available for guest comfort.
The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users, and an extra $3 is charged for additional hours beyond the typical 6-hour duration.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Colombo City Tour offers a private car tour through the city, with both full-day and half-day options available.

Priced from $73.69 per group (up to 3 people), the tour typically starts at 9:00 am and lasts for 6 hours.

Customers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, or the reserve now & pay later option.

The tour is customizable, allowing visitors to choose from a curated list of attractions or request specific locations.

Comfortable transportation and friendly guides are provided, ensuring a pleasant sightseeing experience.

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Itinerary Highlights

While the tour is customizable, allowing visitors to visit specific places or choose from a curated list of locations, the itinerary highlights some popular attractions.

These include the serene Gangaramaya Temple, the verdant Viharamahadevi Park, the striking Nelum Pokuna Theatre, the historic Independence Square, and the expansive National Museum of Colombo.

For those seeking a glimpse of the city’s modern side, the tour also includes a stop at the iconic Colombo Lotus Tower.

Guests may also opt for additional activities like coffee tasting and lunch to enhance their Colombo experience.

Transportation and Services

Pickup from your hotel or specified address is included in the Colombo City Tour. An additional charge applies for pickups over 5 km from the city limits, and airport pickups incur a $30 fee payable in cash.

Comfortable, safe transportation is provided with friendly guides. Water bottles and umbrellas are available for your comfort during the tour.

The tour accommodates a maximum of 3 participants, with an extra $3 charged for additional hours. However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users.

Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya Temple is a renowned Buddhist temple in Colombo, known for its unique architectural blend of Sri Lankan, Chinese, Indian, and South-East Asian styles.

The temple’s complex features a main shrine, a library, a museum, and several intricately carved statues. Visitors can explore the temple’s tranquil gardens and witness the daily rituals and ceremonies performed by the resident monks.

The temple complex features a main shrine, library, museum, and intricately carved statues. Visitors can explore the tranquil gardens and witness daily rituals.

The temple’s highlight is the Simamalaka Meditation Hall, a stunning structure built on a small island in a lake.

The temple offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, inviting visitors to enjoy Sri Lankan Buddhist culture.

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Viharamahadevi Park and Nelum Pokuna Theatre

After exploring the serene Gangaramaya Temple, the Colombo city tour continues to the lush Viharamahadevi Park and the stately Nelum Pokuna Theatre.

Viharamahadevi Park offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city, with its verdant lawns, shady trees, and tranquil ponds. Visitors can stroll through the park, admiring the ornamental fountains and statues.

Next, the tour stops at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre, an impressive cultural landmark built in the shape of a lotus blossom. Tourists can marvel at the intricate architectural details and learn about the venue’s role in Colombo’s vibrant performing arts scene.

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Independence Square and National Museum of Colombo

The next stop on the Colombo city tour is the historic Independence Square.

Visitors can wander through this serene urban park, which commemorates Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule in 1948. The striking Independence Memorial Hall stands as the centerpiece, its grand architecture reflecting the nation’s pride.

Nearby, the National Museum of Colombo offers a comprehensive look into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Explore its vast collection of ancient artifacts, traditional artwork, and historical exhibits.

The museum’s knowledgeable guides provide insightful commentary, offering a deeper understanding of the country’s captivating past.

Colombo Lotus Tower and Optional Activities

Next, the tour makes its way to the Colombo Lotus Tower, an iconic landmark that dominates the city’s skyline. Rising 350 meters high, the tower offers panoramic views of Colombo from its observation deck.

Visitors can also enjoy:

A coffee tasting experience to sample the finest local brews
A leisurely lunch at one of the nearby restaurants, showcasing Sri Lankan cuisine
Stops at additional attractions, such as the Pettah Market or the Dutch Hospital, to explore Colombo’s vibrant culture and architecture
An optional visit to the Pearl Bay Water Park, a world-class facility for family fun

Additional Attractions in Colombo

Beyond the main attractions, the Colombo city tour also offers opportunities to explore diverse locations throughout the city.

Visitors can explore the bustling Pettah Market, where they’ll find a vibrant mix of spices, electronics, and local culture.

The Red Mosque, with its striking architecture, serves as a cultural symbol.

Galle Face, an urban park, provides scenic seaside views.

The colonial Dutch Hospital now houses luxury shopping and dining options.

The futuristic Port City and the serene Diyatha Uyana Park with its scenic tracks offer additional leisure options.

There’s something for every traveler in Colombo.

Common Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for the City Tour?

The cancellation policy allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This provides flexibility for customers to change their plans without penalty.

Can the Itinerary Be Customized Further Beyond the Highlights?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized further beyond the highlights. The tour is flexible, allowing customers to visit specific places of their choice or select from the curated locations based on their interests.

Is It Possible to Request Additional Stops During the Tour?

Yes, the tour is highly customizable. Travelers can request additional stops beyond the highlighted attractions, allowing them to personalize their Colombo city tour experience according to their interests and preferences.

Do the Guides Provide Recommendations for Local Cuisine or Shopping?

The guides can provide recommendations for local dining and shopping options during the tour. They are knowledgeable about the city and can offer suggestions to enhance the customer’s experience.

Are Child Seats or Booster Seats Available for Family Groups?

Child seats and booster seats are not mentioned in the tour details. However, the tour can accommodate families, so it’s best to inquire with the tour provider about availability of child safety equipment prior to booking.

The Sum Up

Discover the vibrant sights of Colombo with a private car tour. Explore iconic landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, and Independence Square. The tour offers flexible itineraries, comfortable transportation, and the convenience of hotel pickups, all starting at $73.69 for up to three people. Enjoy Sri Lankan culture, savor local cuisine, and customize your journey for an unforgettable experience in this captivating city.