Colombo Sightseeing & Shopping
Description
Spend the full day enjoying personalized attention while your sightseeing, shop, and eat a Sri Lankan lunch.Experience the beauty of City life with us. Stops can include Independence Square, Galle Face Green, and the Gangaramaya Temple before spending some free time shopping for souvenirs. Exploring Colombo independently and the risk of getting lost or delayed. Make things easy with a private shore excursion that whisks you around the sights smoothly and comfortably. Travel by private vehicle, visit top sights such as the Seema Malakaya Temple,shop for souvenirs at handicrafts emporiums and hear tales of local life from your driver that you'd miss if alone. • Explore Colombo with ease on a private shore excursion from the cruise port or your hotel in Colombo • Forget cabs or buses,sightseeing stress-free by private air-conditioned car • See the sights, shop at markets, and hear about local life and history
Tour Options
Itinerary
Gangaramaya is one of the oldest Buddhist temples in Colombo, started by the famous scholar monk Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera in the late 19th Century. After the Venerable Sri Sumangala, his chief pupil Devundera Sri Jinaratana Nayake Thera took on the administration of the temple. It was he who laid the foundation to convert the little temple to an institute of international reckoning. The next chief incumbent was the Ven. Devundara Keerthi Sri Sumangala Jinaratana Vacissara Thera, the teacher of the Ven. Galboda Gnanissara, who worked to make the Gangaramaya what it is today: much more than a temple in the conventional term, but a place of worship, a seat of learning and a cultural centre.
The Neo-Baroque-style building was built during the British colonial era to house the Legislative Council of Ceylon, and was an idea of Sir Henry McCallum. This was subsequently included in a proposal made by a committee to construct the new building for the Secretariat, Council Chamber and Government offices on reclaimed land at the northern end of Galle Face, which was approved by the Government in 1920.
Galle Face is a 5 ha (12 acres) ocean-side urban park, which stretches for 500 m (1,600 ft) along the coast, in the heart of Colombo, the financial and business capital of Sri Lanka. The promenade was initially laid out in 1859 by Governor Sir Henry George Ward, although the original Galle Face Green extended over a much larger area than is seen today. The Galle Face Green was initially used for horse racing and as a golf course, but was also used for cricket, polo, football, tennis and rugby.
Independence Memorial Hall (also Independence Commemoration Hall) is a national monument in Sri Lanka built for commemoration of the independence of Sri Lanka from the British rule with the restoration of full governing responsibility to a Ceylonese-elected legislature on February 4, 1948. It is located in Independence Square (formerly Torrington Square) in the Cinnamon Gardens, Colombo. It also houses the Independence Memorial Museum. The monument was built at the location where the formal ceremony marking the start of self-rule, with the opening of the first parliament by the HRH Prince Henry, Duke of Gloucester occurred at a special podium February 4, 1948. Located at the head of the monument is the statue of the first prime minister of the country Rt. Hon. Don Stephen Senanayake "The Father of the Nation". Most of the annual National Independence Day celebrations have been held here. Apart from a monument it served as the ceremonial assembly hall for the Senate of Ceylon and the House of Representatives of Ceylon until the parliament was moved to the new parliament complex. Currently it is the venue for religious events and annual national day celebrations.
The Colombo Museum as it was called at the beginning was established on 1st January 1877. It founder was Sir William Henry Gregory, the British Governor of Ceylon (Sri Lanka) at the time. The Royal Asiatic Society (CB) was instrumental in bringing to the notice of Gregory on his appointment as Governor in 1872 the need for a public museum with much difficulty the approval of the legislative council was obtained within a year. The Architect of the Public Works Department, J.G. Smither was able to prepare the plans for new structure on Italian architectural style. The construction was completed in 1876 and the Museum commenced it functions in the following year. The Authorities of the museum took various steps to display the cultural and natural heritage of the country for this purpose. With the development of the museum to international level, it earned the status of a national museum during the period of Dr. P. E. P. Deraniyagala. He was able to open up branch museums in Jaffna, Kandy and Ratnapura and a full - fledged Department of National Museums was established in 1942 under the act No. 31. The extension of the number of branch museums has now increased to nine and in addition a school science programme and a mobile museum service are also in operation.
Shop at ease at laksala for all the handicrafts and hand made srilankan products
Do you know Srilanka is famous for rich gems? Here is the opportunity to shop your heart captured Gems and Jewelleries for cheap rates which are approved by the Gem Bureau of Srilanka (No hidden bussiness 100% Satisfied)
Construction of the Jami-Ul-Alfar Mosque commenced in 1908 and the building was completed in 1909. The mosque was commissioned by the local Indian Muslim community, based in Pettah, to fulfill their required five-times-daily prayer and Jummah on Fridays. The mosque's designer and builder was Habibu Labbe Saibu Labbe (an unqualified architect), and was based on details/images of Indo-Saracenic structures provided by South Indian traders, who commissioned him. It is a hybrid style of architecture, that draws elements from native Indo-Islamic and Indian architecture, and combines it with the Gothic revival and Neo-classical styles. Originally it had the capacity for 1,500 worshippers although at the time only around 500 were attending prayers. It is a distinctive red and white candy-striped two-storey building, with a clock tower, and is reminiscent of the Jamek Mosque in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia (constructed in 1910). Before other landmarks were built, some claim that the Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque was recognized as the landmark of Colombo by sailors approaching the port. In 1975 the mosque, with the assistance of the Haji Omar Trust,purchased a number of the adjoining properties and commenced building an expansion to the mosque to increase its capacity to 10,000.
Highlights
What's included
Pickup Locations & Times
All Hotels in Colombo Colombo Cruise Port
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
- A dress code is required to enter places of worship and selected museums. No shorts or sleeveless tops allowed. Knees and shoulders MUST be covered for both men and women. You may risk refused entry if you fail to comply with these dress requirements
- A maximum of 15 people per booking
Reviews(15)
picture is beautiful but the street where it is main street very busy not to do with small children there are cars and a lot of tuk tuks driven and motorcycles you have to be very careful not to get hit
Thank you for sharing your feedback. We’re glad to hear you found the photo beautiful. You’re absolutely right that the main street can be very busy, with cars, tuk-tuks, and motorbikes, and we understand that this may be challenging, especially when traveling with small children. We always advise guests to be extra cautious in such areas and are happy to suggest quieter spots or alternative locations that are more suitable for families. We truly appreciate your comments, as they help future travelers plan better In the meantime you should also know that you are traveling with a safe and secure approved travel agency where your safety is our first place and all through these busy streets our exceptional drivers who drove you have never failed to take you safely and make sure you explore things We wish to meet and serve you soon again in future with a better experience
Had a wonderful time in Colombo, thanks to Mr. Feroze. He is a wonderful guide and driver. The car was good and comfortable, he speaks good English and has a wonderful knowledge of the city. He was very helpful and cooperative as he took me places not included in the tour. 5 stat service
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
The Kingfisher One-Day Colombo City Tour is an excellent option for anyone looking to explore the essence of Colombo. It was well-organized and insightful tour, perfect for exploring the city, covering key attractions. It combines convenience, insightful storytelling, and a well-rounded itinerary, making it ideal for first-time visitors.
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
We recently had the pleasure of exploring Colombo with Kingfisher Tours Srilanka.We just loved their service and professionalism.It was an unforgettable trip to Srilanka which was guided by them.Highly Recommended
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
Ferose, our driver, showed us around in Colombo on a 4 hour tour. Good to explain and tell and he also tookbus eat local sri Lanka food
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
We rented a van for 6 people and had a wonderful day! Our guide Khan was so delightful! He was kind, polite, helpful, and knowledgeable . He took us to all the sites we wanted to see, and was with us every step of the way to help us or answer any questions we may have. The driver was great too and always made sure the motor and a/c were on when we got back into the van. Khan's wife had just had a baby 12 hours before our tour, and he shared a photo of his beautiful baby girl with us. It was a truly memorable day.
We booked a van for 6 people and toured the sites and did some shopping as well. Our guide Khan was wonderful! He was charming, polite, friendly, and knowledgeable. He took us everywhere we wanted to go and stayed with us wherever we went to assist or answer any questions. The driver was great too. Whenever we came back to the van, he had already started it up so the a/c was flowing for our comfort. Khan's wife had just had a baby 12 hours earlier and he shared with us a photo of his beautiful little baby girl. He was a delight ,as was our entire day.
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
Really enjoyed our tour with Ferose who was an excellent guide. Saw a lot of Colombo in 3-4 hours and found it fascinating. A real mix of old and new.
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
2 Sisters, cruise ship delayed by hours and nothing stopped our guide Answer from meeting us as arranged, with a beaming smile and welcome, and an air-conditioned mini van for the 2 of us.. no crammed in taxis or tuktuks for us We set off for a slightly modified tour due to the ships changes, on a fun, laughter packed sightseeing afternoon. The sights were fab, assistance thoughtful and the best he could. Sometimes the language barrier got in the way but when I adjusted my fast Australian speech things were much better. We would recommend Kingfisher tours to any solo, group, family or couple.. Thanks
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
As I’m travelling solo and doing only a 20hrs connection in Sri Lanka, I had no time to waste, so I booked a guide from Kingfisher tours and they sent Ferose Masse to look after me. Ferose was extremely friendly and helpful, no words can describe how much he helped me throughout the entire day! First off, he picked me up at the airport 2 hrs prior the time we had arranged because my flight arrived early, drove me to a breakfast place, and as I had forgotten to take cash out, he lended me cash to spend during the day. From the breakky shop we went on to the Spice Garden experience, which is very nice, I learned a lot about what plants, herbs and natural medicine can do, after the quick tour around the plants we headed to the Elephant activity point, were I was able, for the first time ever, to see, wash, take photos etc of an elephant, what a magical moment!! Then we had lunch, which was provided by the company, the restaurant was very nice and lunch was plenty of options, all with extremely large portions! For last but no least, he drove me to Sigiriyu rock fortress, where I was able to experience one of the most amazing places I’ve ever seen! After spending the entire day driving me around (lots and lots of driving), telling me about the culture, food, being very nice and friendly, Ferose dropped me off at the airport. I highly recommend Kingfisher tours, not only the driver spoke english, but the car was nice and tidy, I will definitely come back. They made the most of my day here! Thank you, Ferose!
Dear Sir/Madam, Greetings from Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka! It was a great pleasure having had the opportunity to be of service to you in your visit to Sri Lanka. We are truly glad that you had a wonderful tour with Kingfisher Tours Team. The best part of any journey is hearing that our guests had an amazing time with us! There's no greater testament to our passion and dedication to this goal than anything. As a Travel agency and tour Operating Company, Kingfisher Tours Sri Lanka is committed to provide the best product to our each client. As a professional and a reputed tour company, we always concern and give the priority to needs of our all customers along with the maximum satisfaction. We do not think twice to go for an extra mile to give maximum service to our clients. Thank you very much for the review posted on TripAdvisor and share your travel experience with us. It would be great having you back with us for another tour to give you another memorable experience. We are looking forward to seeing you again and bring you another great memory of rest of Sri Lanka.
