Colombo: UNESCO Galle Fort with Scenic Coastal Train Ride
ID: GYG1103123-1693872
Category:
Country: Sri Lanka
Duration:
10:00 hours
Description
Experience a scenic train ride along the coast and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort on a guided tour. Enjoy free time to shop and dine in Galle and Boat Cruise in Madu River returning to Colombo.
Begin your day with a convenient pickup from your hotel in Colombo. Head to the Colombo Fort Railway Station and board the train for a breathtaking journey south.
For approximately 2-3 hours, watch as the urban landscape of Colombo gives way to picturesque vistas of vibrant fishing villages, lush palm groves, and endless stretches of golden sand. The most iconic moment is when the track runs mere feet from the Indian Ocean, creating the unforgettable illusion of gliding directly over the water.
Disembark at Galle Railway Station, where your guide will be waiting for you(You can get down from any station along the route and guide will start from there). Begin your walking tour of the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This living fortification, built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, is a maze of quiet cobblestone streets lined with colonial-era buildings, chic cafes, and quirky boutiques.
Your guide will lead you to key landmarks including the iconic Galle Lighthouse, the historic Dutch Reformed Church, and the ancient ramparts. Walk along the massive sun-baked walls for spectacular views of the ocean, the fort, and local cricket matches playing on the grounds below.
After the guided portion, enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. Find a souvenir, enjoy a fresh lime juice at a café, or simply soak in the unique atmosphere.
On your way can have a Private Boat River Safari in Madu River Balapitiya which is optional.
To ensure a relaxed return, travel back to Colombo in comfort in a private, air-conditioned vehicle, with drop-off directly at your hotel.
Highlights
- Feel the sea breeze as you ride a scenic train along the coast
- Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and Boat cruise in Madu River
- Enjoy free time to shop, dine, and explore Galle at your own pace
- Capture stunning ocean views from the fort’s ancient ramparts
- Travel in comfort with a private vehicle transfer back to Colombo
Guiding languages
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Train schedules are subject to change by Sri Lanka Railways.
The scenic portion of the train ride is best experienced from the right-hand side of the train (when facing forward).
If you want can get down from any Train Station while traveling to Colombo to Galle.
Madu River boat cruise is Optional.
If you have any request please feel free to contact us.
INCLUDED
- Hotel pickup and drop-off in Colombo
- Pre-booked 2nd Class train tickets from Colombo Fort to Galle
- Services of a professional English-speaking Chauffeur guide
- A comprehensive walking tour of Galle Fort
- Return transfer from Galle to Colombo via private, air-conditioned vehicle
- Entrance fees to Galle fort
- Bottled Water
- WiFi
- Parking and Tolls
- All government taxes and service charges
NOT INCLUDED
- Food and drinks (lunch, snacks, beverages)
- Madu River Boat Fees
- Personal Expenses
- Gratuities (optional)
When should I book?
To guarantee availability book as soon as possible. Early booking is worth consideration especially if you planning the trip during high season like public holidays or weekends.
Cancellations
This excursion you can cancel with no cost up to 24 hours before the start of the trip. If you cancel it after 24 hours or not show up on the excursion you will still be charged the full price of the activity. Being late on pick-up or departure will be considered as not showing up.