About this experience
Galle is the most important seaport on the southern coast of Sri Lanka, which has attracted merchants and conquerors for centuries. We will head there, stopping along the way to visit a moonstone mine, take a safari through mangrove forests, swim with turtles, visit several factories, and dispel myths about the island.
What to Expect
Picturesque beaches, exotic nature, and rich historical heritage are what attract travelers to Sri Lanka. We will show you the most interesting sights of the island and tell you fascinating facts about each one.
Itinerary
08:30 - Visit to a turtle farm in Kosgoda. Sea turtles are the "old-timers" in every sense of the word. Firstly, because they live for over 100 years, and some even reach 200. And secondly, they are contemporaries of dinosaurs! You will see 4 species of turtles and learn how to distinguish between them.
09:00 - Exciting boat safari on the Madu Ganga river through mangrove forests in search of monitors and crocodiles. You will also be able to observe exotic birds and monkeys and enjoy a "fish massage" at a farm right in the middle of the river.
10:30 - Tour of the mask museum-factory in Ambalangoda. You will learn how and from what the national masks are made, and if you wish, try your hand at being a master.
11:00 - Descent into an active mine to extract moonstones in Meetheegoda.
11:30 - Visit to the Buddha statue in Peraliya. The monument was erected in 2005 in memory of those who died during the tsunami and its height corresponds to the size of the wave that took numerous lives.
11:45 - Boat ride with a glass bottom in Hikkaduwa and snorkeling in the open ocean.
12:15 - Swimming with sea turtles.
13:15 - Delicious lunch. You will try dishes of Sri Lankan and European cuisine.
14:30 - Walk through an ayurvedic garden in Galle. The guide will tell you about the oils and spices found in Sri Lanka, and you can purchase your favorite ones for home. You will also enjoy a full body massage using ayurvedic and healing oils.
15.30 - Visit to the 17th-century Dutch fort and antique museum. You will see the largest fortification built by Europeans in Asia.
16.30 - Visit to the batik factory and silk workshop. You will witness the production process and learn the intricacies of manufacturing. Optionally, try on a traditional costume - a sari.
Organizational Details
- Don't forget to bring sunscreen, a head covering, a swimsuit, a towel, and sunglasses
- I or another guide from our team will conduct the tour for you
Includes
- Transfer in a comfortable car and all transportation expenses
- Services of a Russian-speaking guide
- Lunch (buffet style)
- Entrance tickets to Galle Fort, ayurvedic garden, mask museum-factory, moonstone mining shaft, batik factory, and silk workshop
Additional Expenses
- Turtle Farm tickets - $3/person
- River safari - $15/person
- Boat ride with glass bottom and snorkeling equipment - $37/person
