From Colombo: Virgin White Tea and Galle City Tour

Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka, serves as the starting point for an immersive journey through the country’s rich cultural heritage. The "Virgin White Tea and Galle City Tour" promises an unforgettable experience, blending the enchanting flavors of a unique tea varietal with the captivating history of a UNESCO-listed fort. What lies in store for those who embark on this full-day excursion from Colombo? The answers await those eager to uncover the stories hidden within the island’s captivating landscapes.

Key Points

• Full-day tour from Colombo that includes a visit to the Handunugoda Tea Factory, known for its Virgin White Tea, and a guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.
• Tour lasts 11 hours with free cancellation and no upfront payment required for reservations.
• Transportation provided via air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide, and each participant receives 1 liter of bottled mineral water.
• Travelers are responsible for meal expenses during the tour, and pets are not allowed.
• Tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews, with praise for value for money, friendly guides, and enjoyable experiences at the tea estate and Galle.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour, titled "Virgin White Tea and Galle City Tour," offers a savings of up to 5%, with prices ranging from $115.20 to $109.44 per person.

The full-day excursion lasts 11 hours and includes free cancellation with a 24-hour notice for a full refund. Travelers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment.

The tour’s itinerary features visits to the Handunugoda Tea Factory, known for its renowned Virgin White Tea, and a guided exploration of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.

Transportation, an English-speaking guide, and bottled water are provided, though meals are at the traveler’s own expense.

Itinerary and Highlights

As per the itinerary, the tour begins with pickup from the traveler’s Colombo hotel at 8:00 AM.

The first stop is the Handunugoda Tea Factory, renowned for its Virgin White Tea, one of the world’s most expensive teas.

At 12:30 PM, the group departs for Galle, where they can enjoy lunch at a restaurant of their choice.

The tour then includes a guided visit to the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, exploring its colonial architecture and cobblestone streets, churches, lighthouse, and museums.

The tour concludes with the return to Colombo by 7:00 PM.

Transportation and Inclusions

According to the tour overview, an air-conditioned vehicle is provided for transportation throughout the tour.

An English-speaking chauffeur guide accompanies the group. Each person receives 1 liter of bottled mineral water.

Hotel pickup and drop-off are included. All taxes and service charges are covered in the tour price.

The tour doesn’t include meals like breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

What to Bring and Important Notes

Participants are advised to bring their passport or ID, comfortable shoes, sunglasses, a sun hat, and sunscreen for the tour.

Meals during the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner, aren’t included in the tour price. Travelers should plan to cover these expenses on their own.

It’s important to note that pets aren’t allowed on the tour.

With these simple preparations, participants can fully enjoy the rich cultural experience of visiting the Handunugoda Tea Factory and exploring the historic Galle Fort.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

Travelers have rated the Virgin White Tea and Galle City Tour highly, with an overall score of 4.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews.

The tour’s English-speaking chauffeur guide received a 4.5/5 rating, while the transportation earned a perfect 5/5.

Reviewers praised the tour’s value for money, with a 4.5/5 rating. Highlights noted in the feedback included the friendly and helpful guides, the flexibility to customize the itinerary, and the enjoyable experiences at the tea estate and historic Galle.

This high customer satisfaction indicates the tour delivers an engaging and memorable exploration of Sri Lanka’s tea culture and colonial heritage.

Discovering Virgin White Tea at Handunugoda

At the Handunugoda Tea Factory, visitors embark on an immersive journey to discover the coveted Virgin White Tea.

One of the world’s most expensive teas, Virgin White Tea is plucked entirely by hand, without any human touch. Guests witness the meticulous process, from delicate leaf selection to careful preservation, ensuring the tea’s purity and unique flavor profile.

The factory’s expert guides share insights into the history and production methods that make Virgin White Tea a true rarity.

This exclusive experience offers a glimpse into the artistry and craftsmanship behind one of Sri Lanka’s most prized exports.

Exploring the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle Fort

After departing the tea factory, the tour makes its way to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that covers an impressive four square kilometers.

This coastal fort, protected by 12 bastions, showcases well-preserved colonial architecture. Visitors can explore the fort’s cobblestone streets, historic churches, the iconic lighthouse, and museums during the guided tour.

The tour provides an opportunity to take in Galle’s rich cultural heritage and admire the blend of European and South Asian influences.

Getting to Colombo and Back

The tour includes hotel pickup from Colombo at 8:00 AM and drop-off by 7:00 PM, providing a convenient and hassle-free experience for participants.

An air-conditioned vehicle transports guests throughout the day, ensuring a comfortable journey. The English-speaking chauffeur guide accompanies the group, offering informative commentary and assistance as needed.

Participants receive a 1-liter bottle of mineral water per person, staying hydrated during the excursion.

With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, the tour offers flexibility and convenience for travelers.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Preferences?

The tour can be customized to fit your preferences. The operator offers flexibility in the itinerary, allowing you to tailor the experience to your interests and needs within the 11-hour tour duration.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration or Add Extra Activities?

Yes, the tour allows for customization. Customers can extend the duration or add extra activities at an additional cost. The tour operator is flexible in accommodating special requests to personalize the experience.

What Safety Precautions Are in Place for the Tour?

The tour provides several safety precautions, including an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking guide, and complimentary bottled water. Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes and sun protection. Pets are not allowed on the tour for safety reasons.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drink During the Tour?

According to the tour information, guests are permitted to bring their own food and drink during the tour. However, meals not included in the tour price, such as breakfast, lunch, or dinner, are at the traveler’s own expense.

Are There Any Discounts or Packages Available for Group Bookings?

Yes, the tour operator offers group discounts. Groups of 4 or more can save up to 5% on the standard per-person rate. Guests can inquire about group pricing when booking the tour.

The Sum Up

The "Virgin White Tea and Galle City Tour" from Colombo offers a captivating blend of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and unique tea production. Visitors can explore the renowned Handunugoda Tea Factory, learn about Virgin White Tea, and discover the colonial charm of Galle Fort, all while enjoying comfortable transportation and an informative English-speaking guide. This full-day excursion provides an immersive experience showcasing the best of Sri Lanka’s history and traditions.

You can check availability for your dates here: