Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion From Colombo Port

The Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion promises a captivating exploration of Sri Lanka’s renowned gem industry. Departing from the Colombo Port, this 4-hour adventure immerses participants in the world of exquisite sapphires and other precious stones. With knowledgeable guides, convenient transportation, and flexible policies, the tour caters to both gem enthusiasts and casual travelers seeking a unique cultural experience. What secrets lie within Sri Lanka’s centuries-old gem trade, and how might this tour unlock them for curious visitors?

Key Points

• This 4-hour shore excursion departs from Colombo Port and provides an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s renowned gem and jewelry industry.
• Priced at $20 per group (up to 2 people), the tour offers live guides in Japanese and English with flexible pickup and drop-off locations.
• Highlights include the Galle Face Hotel, Gem Museum, and Viharamahadvi Park, showcasing Sri Lanka’s exceptional gemstones like blue sapphires and padparadscha sapphires.
• Accessible by luxury car with an English-speaking driver, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 70 years of age.
• With a 5-star rating based on traveler reviews, the tour provides a convenient and engaging way to discover Colombo’s gem industry.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo is a shore excursion that departs from the Colombo Port.

Priced from $20.00 per group (up to 2 people), the 4-hour tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Travelers can reserve their spot now and pay later. Live tour guides are available in Japanese and English.

Groups can also opt for a private tour option.

The tour covers major sights like the Galle Face Hotel, Gem Museum, Viharamahadvi Park, and more, providing an immersive look into Sri Lanka’s rich gem and jewelry industry.

Itinerary and Locations

Pickups for the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo can be arranged at several locations, including Mövenpick Colombo, Marino Beach Colombo, Shangri-La Colombo, Cinnamon Grand Colombo, The Kingsbury Colombo, Granbell Hotel Colombo, Galle Face Hotel, and the Passenger Terminal at the Port of Colombo.

The tour offers optional stops at the Galle Face Hotel, Gem Museum, Viharamahadvi Park, Gem Mine Pvt Ltd, Independence Square, 49 Braybrooke St, Gangaramaya Temple, Jewel Qudsi, and One Galle Face Mall.

Drop-off locations mirror the pickup points. The tour duration is 4 hours, and a live tour guide is available in Japanese and English.

Highlights of Sri Lankan Gems

Since Sri Lanka’s Gem and Jewelry industry is one of the oldest and largest export earners, it has a rich history.

Gems can be traced back 3,000 years, prized by royalty and the rich. Sri Lanka is renowned as one of the most important sources of fine sapphires globally, with approximately 75 out of 200 minerals classified as gemstones found within the country.

Notable gemstones include blue sapphires, star sapphires, star rubies, and padparadscha sapphires. The royal ring sapphire and Queen Elizabeth II’s "Trumpet Brooch", showcasing Sri Lankan gems, demonstrate the enduring significance of the island’s gemstone heritage.

Royal Connection and Notable Gemstone

Although the royal ring sapphire originates from Sri Lanka, it’s Queen Elizabeth II’s "Trumpet Brooch" that truly showcases the island’s gemstone heritage. Given as a gift by the Mayor of Colombo in 1981, the brooch features:

The "Trumpet Brooch" gifted to Queen Elizabeth II in 1981 showcases Sri Lanka’s exceptional gemstone heritage with its vibrant, faceted stones.

• A variety of vibrant, faceted stones

• Resembling a bouquet

• Worn by the Queen on various occasions

• Highlighting Sri Lanka’s reputation as a premier source of fine sapphires globally.

The brooch’s impressive display of Sri Lankan gems reinforces the country’s long-standing connection to the royal family and its status as a premier destination for exceptional gemstones.

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Transportation and Accessibility

The tour includes full-time transport by a luxury car with an English-speaking driver. This provides a comfortable and efficient way to explore the highlights of Colombo.

However, the tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or individuals over 70 years of age. This is due to the nature of the transportation and the walking required at some of the sites.

Guests should consider their mobility and fitness level before booking the tour. The transportation arrangements aim to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience for participants within the specified age and accessibility requirements.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have highly rated the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo, with an overall score of 5 out of 5 based on 1 review.

A verified GetYourGuide traveler praised the tour, highlighting:

• The knowledgeable and engaging tour guide

• The opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s rich gem and jewelry industry

• The convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off

• The reasonable tour price for the immersive experience

The tour’s mix of cultural sights, gemstone education, and shopping seems to have provided an enriching experience for this traveler.

With its positive customer feedback, the Jewel Hunt Tour appears to be a worthwhile shore excursion from Colombo Port.

Booking and Cancellation Policy

Booking the Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo is straightforward. Travelers can reserve their spot and pay nothing upfront. This "book now, pay later" option makes planning a breeze.

The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexibility ensures travelers can adjust their plans without penalty.

With conveniently located pickup and drop-off points across Colombo, the tour is accessible for cruise passengers and hotel guests alike. The private group option also caters to those seeking a more intimate experience.

Exclusive Private Group Option

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the tour offers a private group option. This allows guests to explore the gems and jewels of Colombo in a tailored, personalized setting.

The private group option features:

• Maximum group size of 2 people

• Dedicated, private transportation

• Flexibility to customize the itinerary based on interests

• Undivided attention from the live tour guide

This exclusive option caters to those who desire a more intimate, bespoke tour experience, offering the opportunity to delve deeper into Sri Lanka’s captivating gem heritage at their own pace.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Types of Payment Are Accepted for This Tour?

Payments for this tour can be made in a variety of ways. Customers can reserve their spot now and pay later, or they can pay upfront. Cancellations up to 24 hours in advance are eligible for a full refund.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Requirements for This Tour?

The tour doesn’t have any specific dietary restrictions. Travelers can inform the tour operator of any special dietary needs, and the guide will do their best to accommodate them during the stops at the various sites.

Can I Purchase Any Gems or Jewelry During the Tour?

Yes, participants can purchase gems and jewelry during the tour. The itinerary includes stops at a gem museum, gem mine, and jewelry stores where travelers can explore and purchase Sri Lankan gemstones and jewelry if desired.

Is Photography Allowed at All the Tour Locations?

Photography is generally allowed at most tour locations. However, some sites, like the Gangaramaya Temple, may have restrictions on photography. Visitors should check with their tour guide or at each location to confirm photography policies.

What Is the Group Size Limit for the Private Group Option?

The private group option allows up to 2 people. The tour is priced from $20.00 per group, regardless of group size up to the maximum of 2 participants.

The Sum Up

The Jewel Hunt Tour of Colombo Shore Excursion provides an engaging and affordable opportunity to explore Sri Lanka’s renowned gem industry. With a comprehensive itinerary, knowledgeable guides, and convenient transportation, this tour offers a memorable experience for travelers interested in the country’s exquisite gemstones and their rich history. The flexible cancellation policy and private group option further enhance the tour’s appeal, making it a versatile choice for gem enthusiasts and sightseers alike.

You can check availability for your dates here: