Colombo Port Shore Excursions Colombo City & Kalaniya Temple

Discover the enchanting blend of history, culture, and spirituality in Colombo with the Colombo Port Shore Excursion. This comprehensive tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s iconic landmarks, from the striking Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque to the serene Kelaniya Temple. Explore the vibrant essence of Sri Lanka, enjoying the rich heritage that shapes the country’s identity. Whether you’re a history buff or a cultural enthusiast, this excursion promises an unforgettable experience that will leave you eager to uncover more of Colombo’s treasures.

Key Points

• This shore excursion offers a 4-hour private group tour of Colombo, including a visit to the Kelaniya Temple, a renowned Buddhist shrine.
• The tour covers key landmarks like the Colombo Fort, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, and the Colombo Lotus Tower, providing a comprehensive cultural experience.
• Admission fees, private vehicle transport, and an English-speaking guide are included, ensuring a seamless and hassle-free experience for cruise passengers.
• The tour received a 5/5 rating based on customer feedback, highlighting the quality of the guide and the opportunity for sightseeing and shopping.
• Flexible booking with a 24-hour cancellation policy caters to the needs of cruise passengers.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This shore excursion offers a comprehensive tour of Colombo, the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka. Priced from $90 per person, the 4-hour private group tour is led by an English-speaking guide.

With convenient cruise terminal pickup and drop-off, the experience includes admission fees and transport in a private vehicle.

Highlights range from historic landmarks like the Old Lighthouse and Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque to iconic sites such as the Colombo Lotus Tower, Gangaramaya Temple, and Galle Face Green.

Flexible booking and a generous 24-hour cancellation policy provide added convenience for cruise passengers.

Itinerary Highlights

The Colombo Port Shore Excursions itinerary highlights a diverse array of cultural and historic sites across the city.

Key stops include:

• Colombo Fort Old Lighthouse & Clock Tower

• Jami Ul Alfar Mosque

• Kelaniya Temple

• Colombo Lotus Tower

Visitors will explore significant religious and historical landmarks, local markets, and scenic parks such as Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple, Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, and Manning Market.

The tour also includes a visit to the Replica of Aukana Buddha Statue and the Colombo Art Gallery, providing a well-rounded cultural experience.

Transportation and Inclusions

Full-time transport in a private vehicle is provided for the duration of the Colombo Port Shore Excursions tour. An English-speaking driver accompanies the group throughout the excursion.

Admission fees to all the included sites and attractions are covered. Food and drinks are also provided, ensuring a seamless and worry-free experience.

Passengers will be met by the guide/driver at the main exit door of the cruise terminal, making for a convenient and hassle-free start to the tour.

Passengers will be met by the guide/driver at the main exit door of the cruise terminal, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free start to the tour.

With all these inclusions, travelers can enjoy the cultural and historical highlights of Colombo without logistical concerns.

Key Stops in Colombo

The tour showcases an array of Colombo’s top attractions, beginning with the Colombo Fort and its iconic Old Lighthouse and Clock Tower.

Visitors will also explore:

• The vibrant Jami Ul Alfar Mosque, known for its striking red-and-white striped architecture.

• The serene Kelaniya Temple, a renowned Buddhist shrine with intricate carvings and murals.

• The towering Colombo Lotus Tower, offering panoramic city views.

• The ornate Sri Kailawasanatan Swami Temple, dedicated to the Hindu deity Lord Shiva.

The tour continues through the city’s bustling markets, parks, and landmarks, providing a comprehensive introduction to Colombo’s rich cultural heritage.

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Kelaniya Temple Visit

As visitors approach the Kelaniya Temple, they’ll be struck by its serene atmosphere and intricate architectural details.

A highlight of the tour, the temple is known for its impressive murals and Buddha statues. Travelers will have the chance to explore the main shrine hall and observe devotees engaged in prayer and meditation.

The temple’s history dates back over 2,500 years, making it a significant Buddhist site.

The Kelaniya Temple boasts a rich history spanning over 2,500 years, cementing its status as a prominent Buddhist site.

After the visit, guests will have time to browse the temple’s gift shop for souvenirs before continuing their journey through Colombo’s diverse cultural landmarks.

Exploring Religious and Historical Sites

After the serene visit to Kelaniya Temple, the tour continues to explore Colombo’s diverse religious and historical sites.

Stops include:

• The striking Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, known for its vibrant red-and-white striped architectural design.

• The Gangaramaya Temple, a prominent Buddhist temple featuring intricate carvings and a collection of artifacts.

• The Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Kovil, a Hindu temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, showcasing ornate sculptures and intricate architecture.

• The Colombo Lotus Tower, the tallest self-supported structure in South Asia, offering panoramic city views from the observation deck.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience into Colombo’s rich cultural heritage and religious diversity.

Shopping Opportunities

Along With the cultural and historical attractions, the Colombo Port Shore Excursions tour offers ample shopping opportunities for visitors.

Guests can browse the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, a restored colonial-era complex housing upscale shops and restaurants.

The tour also includes stops at the One Galle Face mall, a traditional gem mine, and the Gem Museum, allowing travelers to purchase high-quality Sri Lankan gems and jewelry.

Plus, the Manning Market and Pettah neighborhood provide access to local markets, where visitors can find Ceylon tea, spices, and handicrafts.

The tour caters to diverse shopping interests and budgets.

Customer Feedback

Travelers who embarked on the Colombo Port Shore Excursions tour have provided overwhelmingly positive feedback.

The tour received a 5/5 rating based on 2 reviews. The feedback highlights several key points:

• Thoroughness of the tour, covering a diverse range of historical, cultural, and scenic sites

• Quality of the tour guide, particularly their expertise at the Kelaniya Temple

• Convenience of the tour, with seamless transportation and inclusion of admission fees

• Ample opportunity for sightseeing and shopping at local markets and precincts

This feedback suggests the tour is an excellent way for cruise passengers to experience the highlights of Colombo and its surrounding cultural attractions.

Common Questions

What Is the Dress Code for Visiting the Temples?

When visiting temples, visitors should wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers the shoulders and knees. Shorts, short skirts, and tank tops are generally not appropriate. Visitors may be required to remove shoes before entering.

Are Photography and Video Recording Allowed at All Sites?

Photography and video recording are generally permitted at most sites, but visitors should respect any restrictions or guidelines set by the temples or religious sites. It’s wise to ask about the photography policy before taking pictures.

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?

Yes, the tour can be customized to fit the traveler’s interests. The tour provider allows flexibility in modifying the itinerary to focus on the sites and activities that are most appealing to the customer.

Is the Tour Suitable for Travelers With Mobility Issues?

The tour may be suitable for travelers with some mobility issues, as it includes transportation in a private vehicle and visits to sites with ramps or elevators. However, it’s best to consult the tour operator for specific accessibility details.

How Much Time Is Allocated for Shopping at Each Stop?

The tour provides free time for sightseeing and shopping at various stops, though the amount of time allocated for shopping at each location is not specified. Travelers can expect to have some flexibility to explore local markets and shops during the tour.

The Sum Up

The Colombo Port Shore Excursion offers a comprehensive tour of Colombo’s cultural and historical landmarks. Visitors can enjoy the city’s vibrant essence, explore the renowned Kelaniya Temple, and gain insights from an expert guide. With seamless transportation, admission fees, and local expertise, this excursion provides a perfect way to discover the rich heritage of Colombo.

You can check availability for your dates here: