Hafen
Colombo

Enjoy a day spent viewing the highlights of Galle.

Colombo and Galle

Formerly known as Gimhathiththa, the city that was once the main seaport of the island of Sri Lanka from where King Solomon traded in ivory, peacocks and other valuables. The modern history of Galle begins in 1505 with the arrival of a Portuguese ship, driven to its shores by a storm. The Portuguese ruled until 1640, before they surrendered to the Dutch East India Company; the British took over from the Dutch in 1796. This fortress city saw the height of its development during the 18th century colonial rule of the Dutch.

Stilt fishermen and Southern Coast

Catch a glimpse of one of Sri Lanka's iconic scenes, the stilt fishermen of the southern coast. In water about chest deep, the fishermen sit at a height of about 2 metres on a cross bar, or petta, tied to vertical poles, or stilts, that they've planted before. They're hoping to catch herrings and mackerel which are then stored in a plastic bag tied around their waist or to the pole. Stilt fishing, although now a dying tradition, has been passed from father to son for generations; some of the older fishermen recall that it started after the Second World War as a skillful and innovative way of earning their livelihood!

Folk Museum and lunch

Proceed then to visit a Folk Museum dedicated to late Martin Wickremasinghe, one of Sri Lanka's renowned writers. Holding over a thousand artefacts of Sri Lankan rural life, it is a unique store-house of knowledge on the local folk culture and folk technology dating back hundreds of years. The museum includes many sections representative of this folk culture and way of life: Buddhist religious artefacts, folk religious practices, the evolution of the Sinhala alphabet, writing utensils, fishing, pottery, and metallurgical technologies, folk dance and puppetry, a unique collection of masks, musical instruments and drums, folk games, traditional lace making, costumes and jewellery - are all showcased here.

Lunch will be served at Radisson Blu Hotel.

Galle Fort, Dutch Church and free time at leisure

Continue your tour with a stop at the Galle Fort. Enter through the old gates, explore the walled city on foot and walk on the ramparts, for a spectacular view of Galle. Declared a World Heritage Site by UNESCO, the fort was built first by the Portuguese. The Dutch during their invasion of 1640 captured the fort; hence it is also known as the Dutch Fort. The Fort is really a walled city, and after almost 400 years of existence, it is one of the best preserved examples of 17th century colonial fortifications in the world. Interestingly, the Fort withstood the Boxing Day Tsunami in 2004 which destroyed Galle town. Today, the Sri Lankan government as well as many Dutch people who still own property inside the Fort, are looking at making this one of the modern wonders of the world. Next visit the Dutch Church, an excellent model of Dutch colonial architecture, and the oldest Protestant Church still in use in Sri Lanka. Completed & consecrated in 1755, part of the floor is covered by about 20 heavily embossed and engraved gravestones, moved by the British into this church in 1853 from older locations. The organ loft has a lovely semicircular balustrade while the pulpit's enormous canopy was made of calamander wood from Malaysia. Explore at leisure the surrounding area or walk around the shops displaying an interesting variety of antiques, jewellery and handicrafts. Drive back to Colombo and return to the pier, where you will rejoin the ship.

Experience the history of tea and its unique journey from the tree to your cup during this half-day excursion to Ingiriya, located in Western Sri Lanka.

Ingiriya Tea Plantation

Depart the pier for the approximate 2-hour drive to the Ingiriya Tea Plantation .Formerly a British colony known as Ceylon, this small Indian Ocean island is famed for producing some of the finest teas in the world. Since the 1880s, Ceylon tea, the name by which it is still popularly known, has been the country's principal and most famous export; for generations, it has formed the backbone of the Sri Lankan economy, and plays a major part today in the country's fortunes. Arrive at the plantation to a special welcome with garlands made from tea leaves.

Gain firsthand knowledge on how tea is processed - beginning with the plucking from the tea bushes, to the grading of the finished product - as you tour a tea plantation and factory. For guests who would like to purchase some tea, a sales point is available within the complex.

Then, with rubber growing in the same region, you also witness a demonstration of the rubber tapping process by which the latex is extracted from the rubber tree. The rubber industry too occupies an important place in the economy of Sri Lanka and is the second most important plantation crop, as also a major foreign exchange earner.

Guided Tour & Tasting

Upon arrival, take a guided walking tour of the facility and learn about tea-grading, packaging, bagging and more. Next, witness a tea-tasting session, and see how the expert tasters and packers offer tea aficionados a truly unique tea experience. A sales outlet is available in the lobby to purchase some tea before leaving.

Experience the added privilege of enjoying a cup of pure Ceylon tea before boarding your coach for the approximately 2-hour drive back to the pier.

Savour the exquisite flavours, legendary lagoon crabs and seafood of Sri Lanka in an historical setting during this palate-pleasing, half-day excursion to the Ministry of Crab.

Colombo, Pettah Bazaar, Old Parliament, Clock Tower, Temple, Mosque, Colonial Buildings, Park

Your tour begins with a scenic, approximately one-hour sightseeing drive through Colombo. Along the way, pass by the commercial district of the city, Pettah Bazaar area, Old Parliament, century-old clock tower, a temple, mosque, and Colonial buildings. The views are more peaceful when driving past Vihara Mahadevi Park; formerly known as 'Victoria Park', it has since been renamed for a Sinhalese queen. Across the street is the imposing, neo-Classical Town Hall.

Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Ministry of Crab Restaurant

Your sightseeing drive ends at the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, one of Colombo's oldest Heritage Sites. Built by the Dutch in 1677 as a hospital, the site formerly housed the Colombo Apothecaries and served as the Colombo Fort Police Station, among other things. Today, the newly-refurbished Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex serves as a high-end shopping complex. Your dinner this evening has been arranged at the renowned Ministry of Crab restaurant, which is housed in these historical surroundings.

Seafood Dinner, Lagoon Crabs, King Prawns, Clams, Oysters

Brainchild of Chef Dharshan Munidasa, host of the former 'Culinary Journeys' TV show, and in collaboration with foodies and former Sri Lankan cricketer friends Mahela Jayawardena and Kumar Sangakkara, this highly-acclaimed restaurant is a celebration of Sri Lankan heritage and cuisine that pays homage to fresh and diverse local produce. Created as a culinary homecoming of Sri Lanka's legendary lagoon crab, the Ministry of Crab also celebrates Sri Lanka's fine seafood, from amazing king prawns found in the rivers running across the island, to fresh clams and oysters from the lagoons. Forks and knives are optional, as specialised crab utensils help pry the succulent meat from its shell, and digging in with your hands is permissible. After dinner, your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.

Experience the diverse cultural and architectural influences of Colombo during a picturesque, half-day excursion through this fascinating Sri Lankan capital and port city.

Colombo, Pettah Bazaar and Fort, Old Government Buildings, Vihara Mahadevi Park, Town Hall

Your tour begins with a scenic, approximately 75-minute drive through the commercial district of the city and Pettah Bazaar area, and past the Pettah Fort and old government buildings. The views are more peaceful as you drive past Vihara Mahadevi Park, now renamed for a Sinhalese queen. It was named Victoria Park when it was created by the British as a botanical garden for tropical species. Across the street is the imposing, Neo-classical Town Hall.

Cinnamon Gardens, University, Colonial Mansions, Independence Square, Gangaramaya Temple

A former cinnamon plantation is now the upscale residential district of Cinnamon Gardens. Here, you can also see the University and most of the embassies, located in Colonial mansions lining lovely, shaded avenues. Drive along some of these streets, and enjoy their elegance and serenity. From here, proceed for a photo stop at Independence Square, then delve deeper into the local culture during a visit to the bustling Gangaramaya Temple, the nicest and most intimate Buddhist temple in all of Colombo.

Galle Face Green and Hotel, Colombo Club, Taj Samudra, High Tea, Live Band

Next, drive along the Galle Face Green, a former haunt for members of Colombo's high society. This beautiful area is nestled in the foreground of the neo-Classical facades of the Colombo Club and Galle Face Hotel. Today, there are joggers who talk politics and business as they run, and kite-flyers trying to catch a breeze. Your last stop is at the Taj Samudra Hotel. Upon arrival, proceed for High Tea accompanied by the sounds of a live Calypso band. Leaving the hotel, your tour concludes with a short drive back to the pier.

This half-day excursion shows you the varied hues of the city, taking you slightly off the beaten track.

Colombo and Geoffrey Bawa's former residence

Depart the pier for Colombo, capital and major port of Sri Lanka and a fascinating city that links the past with the present. Its culture and art are a unique mix of relics of Portuguese, Dutch and English settlements, blended with Indian influences.

Your tour begins at house number 11, on 33rd Lane, residence of renowned architect, the Late Geoffrey Bawa. It is an architectural bricolage housing arts and artefacts from his collection. This interesting composition in a row of four houses slowly acquired over a period of time, started with the construction of a pied-à-terre in 1958. The final result is an introspective labyrinth of rooms and garden courts which together create the illusion of limitless space. While the main house evokes a feeling of a lost world of verandahs and courtyards, the new tower serves as a periscope with views across the treetops towards the sea.

Panoramic drive and lunch

Re-board the vehicle for a panoramic drive past some of the city's highlights.

Lunch today is at Gallery Café - another legacy of Geoffrey Bawa. His former office now houses the café and art gallery run by Shanth Fernando.

National Museum and city sightseeing

Delve deeper into this culture at the elegant, white, colonnaded National Museum, the largest museum in Sri Lanka. View the fascinating and sometimes scary mask collection, which has its share of demons, including Prince Maha Kola, wearing a diadem of interwoven snakes. Another gallery contains a display of outstanding Hindu and Buddhist bronzes. One group of statuettes is connected with the cult of Shiva, and includes a fine sculpture of Shiva as "lord of the dance." Some of the images are mobile - not intended to be worshipped in the most sacred places, but destined for ritual processions around the temple or through the streets of the town. The museum also houses a collection of the regalia of the last King of Kandy.

At the conclusion of the tour, drive past the Colonial heritage of Colombo - the Old Parliament and government buildings; Galle Face Green where Colombo high society once strolled, to see and be seen by those who mattered, against the backdrop of the neo-classical facades of the Colombo Club and the Galle Face Hotel. Today there are joggers who talk politics and business as they run, and there may be kite flyers trying to catch a breeze.

Learn about and observe the care, feeding and conservation of the elephants of Pinnawela during this memorable full-day tour to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.

Depart the pier for an approximate 3-hour drive to Pinnawela. A comfort stop will be made en-route.

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage was created to care for baby elephants found abandoned or orphaned. Today, approximately 80 animals are cared for, fed, studied and trained by the Sri Lankan Wildlife Authority. Once acclimated to a lifestyle in captivity, the elephants are unable to care for themselves in the wild. As a result, they grow up and reproduce in the protection of the reserve, and very small babies may be spotted amongst the ever-growing family.

Elephant Care, Bathing & Feeding

During your visit, the staff explains and demonstrates the care afforded to these magnificent animals, as well as the on-going battle for the conservation of their native habitats. If your timing is right, you can observe the staff helping the elephants take their daily bath in the nearby river. Your visit includes a relaxing lunch at the Pinnalanda River View restaurant, followed by an opportunity to watch the elephants being fed.

At the conclusion of your visit, board your coach for 30 minutes drive to Rambukana Railway Station. On arrival, board the train for the approximate 2.5-hours journey back to the Colombo Railway Station where your coach will be waiting for a short transfer back to the pier. Rest assured, this short train journey is well worth it! During the ride, take in the scenic beauty of the lush, green Sri Lankan countryside from the grandeur of your air-conditioned train car.

Learn about and observe the care, feeding and conservation of the elephants of Pinnawela during this memorable full-day tour to the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage.

Depart the pier for an approximate 3-hour drive to Pinnawela. A comfort stop will be made en-route.

Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage

The Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage was created to care for baby elephants found abandoned or orphaned. Today, approximately 80 animals are cared for, fed, studied and trained by the Sri Lankan Wildlife Authority. Once acclimated to a lifestyle in captivity, the elephants are unable to care for themselves in the wild. As a result, they grow up and reproduce in the protection of the reserve, and very small babies may be spotted amongst the ever-growing family.

Elephant Care, Bathing & Feeding

During your visit, the staff explains and demonstrates the care afforded to these magnificent animals, as well as the on-going battle for the conservation of their native habitats. If your timing is right, you can observe the staff helping the elephants take their daily bath in the nearby river. Your visit includes a relaxing lunch at the Pinnalanda River View restaurant, followed by an opportunity to watch the elephants being fed.

At the conclusion of your visit, reboard your coach for a 3-hour surface journey back to Colombo to rejoin the ship

Explore the medieval history, abundant waterways, and flora and fauna of Sri Lanka during this panoramic, full-day excursion to Galle.

Colombo, Galle, Traditional Stilt Fishermen

Your tour begins with a scenic, approximately two-hour drive to Galle. Formerly known as Gimhathiththa, Galle dates from the early-16th century, and was once the main seaport of the island of Sri Lanka, from which King Solomon traded in ivory, peacocks and other valuables. Upon arrival, catch a glimpse of one of Sri Lanka's iconic scenes, the traditional stilt fishermen of the southern coast.

Galle Fort, Old Gates, Rampart, Dutch Church, Free Time in Galle, Shopping and Exploring

Next, drive to the Galle Fort, an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enter through the old gates, explore the walled city on-foot and walk on the ramparts, which offer a spectacular view of Galle. Originally built by the Portuguese, the Galle Fort is one of the best-preserved examples of 17th-century Colonial fortifications in the world. Afterward, a visit is made to the Dutch Church. Built in 1755, the church is an excellent model of Dutch-Colonial architecture, and the oldest Protestant Church still in use in Sri Lanka. Its interior features about 20 heavily-embossed and engraved gravestones, an organ loft with a lovely semi-circular balustrade, and the pulpit's enormous canopy. Following your tour, some free time is made to explore the surrounding area, and browse the local shops offering a variety of antiques, jewellery and handicrafts.

Lunch, Madu Ganga River Cruise, Flora and Fauna, Local Lifestyles, Old Sri Lankan Temple

After lunch at the Radisson Blu Hotel, drive to the Balapitiya Boat Centre. Upon arrival, embark a small boat for a river safari cruise on the Madu Ganga River. Traverse dozens of mangrove forested islets, and an eco-reserve that is a breeding ground for many endangered species of flora and fauna. A bird-lover's paradise, this wetland features 46 species of birds, including 14 aquatic varieties. Along the way, look for water monitors, kingfishers, eagles, monkeys, and colourful butterflies. In addition, observe the traditional lifestyles of Sri Lankans, such as fishing, prawn-tapping, coir-making, cinnamon-farming, and coconut leaf-weaving. A brief stop is also made at a 200-year old Sri Lankan temple. Following your river safari, your tour concludes with an approximately two-hour drive back to the pier.

Explore the religious and cultural history of Colombo during a half-day sightseeing excursion through this historic capital and major port city.

Scenic Colombo City

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 75-minute drive through the city's commercial district and Pettah Bazaar area. Along the way, pass by the Pettah Fort, old government buildings and Victoria Park, or 'Vihara Mahadevi Park', a botanical garden for tropical species. Across the street is the imposing, Neo-classical Town Hall. A visit is made to Cinnamon Gardens, a former cinnamon plantation turned upscale residential district. Here, see the University and most of the embassies in Colonial mansions lining the lovely, shaded avenues.

National Museum

Next, a visit is made to National Museum. Upon arrival at this elegant, white, colonnaded building, view a scary and fascinating mask collection, a gallery filled with outstanding Hindu and Buddhist bronzes, a collection of the regalia of the King of Kandy and more. Some of the images are mobile to enable ritual processions around the temple or through the streets of the town. (A camera fee of USD $1.00 and a video camera fee of USD $8.50, at time of printing, is required to be paid directly to the Museum.)

Galle Face Green & Gangaramaya Temple

Leaving the museum, re-board your coach and drive to Galle Face Green. A former haunt of Colombo high society, Galle Face Green is situated in the foreground of the Neo-classical facades of the Colombo Club and the Galle Face Hotel. After a refreshment stop at a local hotel, proceed for a visit to the Gangaramaya Temple, the nicest and most intimate of Colombo's Buddhist temples.

Afterwards, commence the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Discover a unique insight into the cuisine of the 'Emerald Isle' of Sri Lanka during this interactive, full-day, S.A.L.T. Program culinary excursion with a master chef and lunch.

Colombo, Pettah Bazar, Local Market, Street Food, Fruit, Vegetables, Produce

Your S.A.L.T. Program experience begins with a short drive to the Pettah Bazar. Upon arrival, join a junior chef for a guided walking tour through this bustling local market, where a cacophony of colours, fresh produce, and spirited interactions between vendors and shoppers present wonderful photo opportunities. This introduction into the local street food, as well as the fruits, vegetables, produce, and spices utilised in Sri Lankan cooking, offer a unique insight into their nutritional and cultural benefits and importance. Whilst the ingredients are being selected for your cooking lesson, you are welcome to purchase herbs and spices at your own expense to take home with you.

Independence Square, Photo & Comfort Stop

Next, re-board your coach and drive to Independence Square, built to commemorate the new nation's independence, and promote the values of national unity and self-reliance. Completed in 1961, Independence Square served as an inspiration for other countries on the African continent seeking independence from European colonial rule. After a photo and comfort stop here, re-board your coach and continue on for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive to the Mount Lavinia Hotel.

Host Master Chef Silva

Your arrival is greeted by celebrated Sri Lankan Master Chef, Dr. Publis Silva, who has worked with the Mount Lavinia Hotel since 1956. Master Chef Silva rose up through the ranks, from working with coal in the hotel's kitchen to becoming its Head Chef 15 years later. In 2017, he was honoured with the title of 'Deshabandu', the third-highest national honour awarded in Sri Lanka, by President Maithripala Sirisena. Today, Master Chef Silva is a member of the Board of Directors of the Mount Lavinia Hotel. He has authored several books, and currently holds two Guinness World Records.

Sri Lankan Cooking & Arrack Cocktail-Making Demonstrations, Dinner

Next, Master Chef Silva shares his expertise through a lively cooking demonstration in which he showcases the preparation of typical Sri Lankan dishes, curries, and salads, with each differing in taste, aroma, colour, and flavour. To add extra fun to the experience, a Sri Lankan, arrack cocktail-making session and tasting has also been arranged for your enjoyment. Afterward, proceed for a lunch consisting of the sumptuous Sri Lankan specialities Master Chef Silva has prepared for your enjoyment. At the conclusion of your S.A.L.T. Program excursion, re-board your coach and commence the approximately one-hour drive back to the pier.

Colombo, capital and major port of Sri Lanka, is a fascinating city that links the past with the present. Its tangible history is a unique mix of relics of Portuguese, Dutch and English settlement, blended with Indian influences.

Colombo sightseeing

Depart the port, past the commercial district of the city, and through the Pettah bazaar area. The views are more peaceful when driving past Vihara Mahadevi Park, now renamed for a Sinhalese queen. It was called Victoria Park when it was created by the British as a botanical garden for tropical species. Across the street is the imposing neo-classical Town Hall.

A former cinnamon plantation is now the upscale residential district of Cinnamon Gardens, with the University and most embassies in colonial mansions lining lovely, shaded avenues. Cruise through some of these streets and enjoy their elegance and serenity.

On Galle Face Green Colombo high society once strolled, to see and be seen by those who mattered, against the backdrop of the neo-classical facades of the Colombo Club and the Galle Face Hotel. Today there are joggers who talk politics and business as they run, and there may be kite flyers trying to catch a breeze. The hotel is still there, as it has been since 1864, enjoying the oceanfront view, and still laying claim to its position as the first hotel in Asia.

Shopping Complex and High-Tea

End your drive at one of Colombo's oldest heritage site, now refurbished in to a high-end shopping complex - the Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct. You'll have some time at leisure to explore for souvenirs.

Before returning to the pier and the ship, make one last stop at the legendary Galle Face Hotel for high-tea.

Explore Colombo at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Colombo at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private car. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned car and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Colombo at your leisure during your full-day (8-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customise your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore Colombo at your leisure during your half-day (4-Hour) sightseeing tour via private van. Customize your own itinerary or choose to see an overview of the area's highlights.

Depart the pier with your English-speaking guide in an air-conditioned van and discover the city areas at your own pace. Your exclusive tour concludes back at the pier.

Explore the religious, cultural and artistic influences of Sri Lanka during this memorable, half-day visit to the Kelaniya Temple, with a shopping stop in Colombo.

Scenic Drive & Kelaniya Temple

Depart the pier for the scenic, approximately 45-minute drive into the countryside, and a visit to Kelaniya. Upon arrival, proceed for a visit to the Kelaniya Temple, an active Buddhist temple purportedly built on a site visited by the Buddha over 2,000 years ago. He is said to have preached his doctrine to a gathering of serpent kings here. Today, worshippers come to lay sprigs of lotus flowers around the great white 'dagoba', light oil lamps and sprinkle the base of the Tree of Enlightenment with purified water.

During your visit, marvel at the temple's fine drawings, lovely frescoes, fascinating, geometrically patterned ceilings, and three important images of Buddha; two seated and one reclining. Adorning the outer walls are more light-hearted works, including rows of whimsical dwarfs and elephants in bas-relief.

Shopping In Colombo

Following your visit, re-board your coach and return to Colombo for an opportunity to do some shopping. Colombo is renowned for its precious and semiprecious stones; sapphires, star rubies, topaz, garnets, citrine, and more can be found at the gems and jewellery outlet. Generally two venues are visited, a handicraft store and a jewellers.

Browse for tea, woodcarvings, brass, silverware, batiks, and souvenirs before commencing the approximately 30-minute drive back to the pier.

Entdecken Sie ein ursprüngliches Sumpfgebiet bei einer Bootstour durch die unterschiedlichen Wasserlandschaften, die den Muthurajawela-Sumpf bilden. Halten Sie die Augen auf und die Kamera bereit, während das Boot durch die Mangroven gleitet und - mit etwas Glück - Kormorane, Seidenreiher oder Bindenwarane Ihren Weg kreuzen.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Etwa 1-stündiger Bustransfer zum Muthurajawela-Sumpf
• Bootstour von gut 1,5 Stunden durch das Naturschutzgebiet

Wussten Sie schon, wie die Tuk-Tuks zu ihrem Spitznamen gekommen sind? Er stammt vom typischen Motorengeräusch der Zweitaktmotoren der beliebten Fahrzeuge. Im halboffenen Tuk-Tuk sind Sie ganz nah am Puls der Stadt und entdecken die Sehenswürdigkeiten Colombos aus einer besonderen Perspektive.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Kurzer Bustransfer in die Stadt
• Umstieg in die Tuk-Tuks (2 Personen pro Fahrzeug)
• Rundfahrt durch Colombo
• Zwischendurch kurzer Spaziergang durch den Victoria Park und Fotostopp am Unabhängigkeits Platz
• Rücktransfer zum Schiff ab Galle Face Green per Bus

Der einst florierende Handelsposten Galle ist heute UNESCO Welterbe. Im Galle Fort, das im 17. Jahrhundert von den Holländern errichtet wurde, bewundern Sie die besondere Verbindung europäischer Architektur mit asiatischer Tradition. Sinnbild für schier endlose Geduld sind die bekannten Fischer, die regungslos auf Holzstelzen auf ihre Beute lauern. Ein kurzer Halt um diese lebenden Wahrzeichen Sri Lankas auf einem Erinnerungsfoto festzuhalten darf selbstverständlich nicht fehlen.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Hin- und Rückfahrt ca. 2,5 Stunden pro Strecke
• Fotostopp bei den Stelzenfischern
• Besichtigung des Galle Fort, etwa 2 Stunden
• Zwischendurch Mittagessen in einem lokalen Restaurant

Gelegen in Sri Lankas Südwesten lockt das Ypsylon Resort nicht nur mit üppig grüner, tropischer Lage, sondern auch mit einem großen Pool und direktem Strandzugang. Genießen Sie die Vorzüge der Hotelanlage oder verbringen Sie einen entspannten Nachmittag am feinen Sandstrand.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Bustransfer ins Hotel, ca. 2 Stunden je Strecke
• Etwa 5 Stunden Freizeit im Hotel, inklusive eines leichten Snacks
• Rücktransfer per Bus

zu einer einmaligen Reise zum Löwenfelsen. Von der UNESCO seit 1982 als Welterbe geschützt, ist der Monolith, der einsam aus dem Dschungel ragt, eine der wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten Sri Lankas. Bei Ihrem Ausflug entdecken Sie nicht nur dieses Highlight, sondern sehen auch üppige grüne Wälder, Tempel mit Stupas und die einstige Hauptstadt Anuradhapura aus der Vogelperspektive.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Transfer zum Flughafen von Colombo, ca. 45 Minuten
• Etwa halbstündiger Flug mit der Chartermaschine nach Sigiriya (voraussichtlich eine Cessna 208B)
• Rund 45-minütige Fahrt zum Fuße des Sigiriya Felsens
• Aufstieg zu den Überresten des Löwentors und weiter auf das Felsplateau um die Ruinen der sagenumwobenen Festung zu erkunden, insgesamt gut 2 Stunden
• Anschließend Mittagessen in einem gehobenen Hotel
• Mit dem Charterflugzeug und dem Bus zurück zu Mein Schiff®

Machen Sie sich auf den Weg nach Balapitiya, von wo aus Sie eine aufregende Flusssafari durch die Mangroven auf dem Madu Ganga Fluss beginnen. Während der Fahrt haben Sie nicht nur die Gelegenheit die vielfältige Flora und Fauna zu bestaunen, sondern auch das Leben der Einheimischen in dieser Region kennenzulernen.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Hin- und Rückfahrt etwa 2 Stunden pro Strecke
• Insgesamt rund 2-stündige Bootsfahrt durch die Mangroven mit kurzen Stopps, z.B. am Kothduwa Tempel auf einer kleinen Insel mitten im Fluss
• Landestypisches Mittagessen
• Besuch einer Aufzuchtstation für Schildkröten, ca. 30 Minuten

Eine imposante Anlage in deren Herzstück ein Zahn Buddhas verwahrt wird. Bei Ihrem Besuch lauschen Sie den Geschichten um die heilige Reliquie. Einen spannenden Kontrast zum lebhaften Tempelbesuch bietet der bezaubernden Botanische Garten Kandys, in dem Sie durchatmen und die Natur genießen können.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Besuch des Buddha-Zahntempels in Kandy, ca. 1 Stunde
• Etwa 45-minütiger Besuch des Botanischen Gartens
• Zwischendurch Mittagessen in einem lokalen Restaurant
• Fahrt nach Kandy rund 4 Stunden je Strecke

Angeblich diente das Eingangstor zum heiligen Bezirk in Kelaniya als Vorlage für das historische Eingangstor des Hamburger Tierparks. In Sri Lanka ist der Tempel aber für seine historische Bedeutung bekannt: Den Geschichten zufolge hat Buddha selbst diesen Ort besucht und einen drohenden Krieg zwischen zwei lokalen Führern um einen juwelenbesetzten Thron verhindert.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Besuch des Kelaniya-Tempels, ca. 45 Minuten
• Rundfahrt im Bus vorbei am historischen Parlamentsgebäude, der Universität von Colombo, dem Galle Face Green und weiteren Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Etwa 45-minütiger Besuch des Nationalmuseums
• Rund 30-minütige Besichtigung eines Hindu-Tempels

Entdecken Sie zunächst die Highlights der lebendigen Stadt Colombo auf einer Panoramafahrt. Anschließend lassen Sie sich von einem verführerischen Duft in die Küche entführen. Nach einem erfrischenden Begrüßungsdrink tauchen Sie gemeinsam in einer kleinen Gruppe in die Kulinarik Sri Lankas ein und bereiten ein erstklassiges Curry zu. Dieses wird am Ende des Kurses von Ihnen, bei einem gemeinsamen Mittagessen, verkostet.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Panoramafahrt durch die Stadt, Ca. 1 Stunde
• Etwa 2,5-stündiger Kochkurs
• Anschließend gemeinsames Mittagessen in der Gruppe
• Ca. 30-minütiger Transfer zurück zum Schiff

Lassen Sie sich mitreißen von der bedeutenden Geschichte Colombos bis in die Gegenwart. Vorbei an Universitäten, Tempeln und Wolkenkratzern bis hin zum Unabhängigkeitsplatz erleben Sie die Vielfalt und Lebendigkeit der Stadt. Vom berühmten Lotus Tower aus bestaunen Sie die Stadt noch einmal aus der Vogelperspektive. Das Galle Face Hotel ist die letzte Station des Ausfluges, hier können Sie sich bei einer Mittagspause vom aufregenden Stadtleben erholen.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Etwa 30-minütige Fahrt zum Unabhängigkeitsplatz mit Aufenthalt
• Weiterfahrt mit Fotostopps zum Lotus Tower, insgesamt gut 1 Stunde
• Aufenthalt am Lotus Tower mit Aussicht über Colombo ca. 1 Stunde
• Stopp im Galle Face Hotel mit Rundgang und Mittagspause

Lange Fußwege sind nichts für Sie und ein kurzer Überblick über Colombo genügt Ihnen schon? Dann haben wir das Wichtigste kompakt für Sie zusammengefasst. Eine bequeme Panoramafahrt ermöglicht Ihnen eine Stippvisite in Sri Lankas Hauptstadt im Komfort eines klimatisierten Busses. Ein kurzer Fotostopp rundet Ihren Besuch ab.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Rundfahrt im Bus vorbei am historischen Parlamentsgebäude, der Universität von Colombo, dem Galle Face Green und weiteren Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Fotostopp am Unabhängigkeitsplatz, ca. 15 Minuten

Für individuelle Landgänge halten die örtlichen Veranstalter für Sie in vielen Häfen eine begrenzte Anzahl an Minivans und fachkundigen Reiseleitern bereit, die Sie vorab über uns reservieren können. Ob allein oder zu zweit, ob als Familie oder gemeinsam mit neu gewonnenen Freunden - starten Sie zu einer unvergesslichen Entdeckungsreise.

Informationen zum Reservierungsablauf: Sofern Sie Interesse an einem Fahrzeug mit privater englischsprachiger Reiseleitung haben, wenden Sie sich bitte an unser Serviceteam unter Landausfluege@tuicruises.com , welches das gewünschte Arrangement gerne für Sie reserviert. An Bord werden Sie seitens des Ausflugsteams kontaktiert, um die Details wie beispielsweise die gewünschte Startuhrzeit und die individuellen Programmwünsche zu besprechen. Eventuell anfallende Eintrittsgelder, Fotogebühren, Mahlzeiten, Parkgebühren sind direkt vor Ort während des Ausfluges zu bezahlen.

Die Preise gelten in Colombo wie folgt:

Ein privates Fahrzeug mit Fahrer und englischsprachigem Reiseleiter:

• 160 € für 1 - 2 Personen (halbtags)
• 220 € für 1 - 2 Personen (ganztags)
• 180 € für 1 - 6 Personen (halbtags)
• 250 € für 1 - 6 Personen (ganztags)

Bei einer kurzen Panoramafahrt mit anschließender Freizeit haben Sie die Gelegenheit einen Überblick über Sri Lankas Hauptstadt zu gewinnen. In einem traditionsreichen Hotel in Mount Lavinia können Sie danach die goldgelben Strände genießen oder am Pool entspannen.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Panoramafahrt entlang der wichtigsten Sehenswürdigkeiten, ca. 30 Minuten
• Freizeit im Viertel Pettah, knapp 1 Stunde
• Etwa 1 Stunde Weiterfahrt nach Mount Lavinia
• Aufenthalt im Mount Lavinia Beach Hotel etwa 6 Stunden, inklusive Mittagessen

Verbinden Sie eine entspannte Panoramafahrt durch Colombo mit etwas Freizeit auf eigene Faust. Mit dem Bus geht es vorbei an Colombos beliebtesten Sehenswürdigkeiten und im Anschluss haben Sie Gelegenheit, das quirlige Viertel Pettah zu erkunden.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Rundfahrt im Bus vorbei am historischen Parlamentsgebäude, der Universität von Colombo, dem Galle Face Green und weiteren Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Fotostopp am Unabhängigkeitsplatz, ca. 15 Minuten
• Etwa 1 Stunde Freizeit für eigene Erkundungen im Viertel Pettah

Zwischen dem Lärm und der Hektik einer wachsenden Großstadt haben sich die unterschiedlichsten Kolonialgebäude durch die Jahrhunderte gerettet. Gemeinsam mit kitschbunten Tempeln und Wohnvierteln fügt sich ein abwechslungsreiches Antlitz zusammen, das stets mit ein bisschen Straßenstaub bepudert ist.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Rundfahrt im Bus, insgesamt ca. 1,5 Stunden vorbei am Unabhängigkeitsplatz, dem Uhrenturm, dem historischen Parlamentsgebäude und anderen Sehenswürdigkeiten
• Besuch des Nationalmuseums, etwa 45 Minuten
• Ca. 45-minütiger Besuch des Gangarama-Tempels

Unterwegs mit Ihrem Reiseleiter durch das quirlige Colombo besuchen Sie einen beliebten buddhistischen Tempel, bevor Sie sich zu Fuß auf Erkundungstour machen. Lassen Sie das Stadtleben auf sich wirken, während Sie an Kolonialbauten, Straßenhändlern, Stadtparks und religiösen Bauwerken vorbeispazieren.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Kurzer Bustransfer ins Stadtzentrum
• Innenbesichtigung des Gangarama-Tempels, etwa 30 Minuten
• Gut 2-stündiger, geführter Rundgang durch Colombo, unter anderem vorbei am Galle Face Green und dem historischen Parlamentsgebäude

Das Blue Water Hotel befindet sich im südlich von Colombo gelegenen Wadduwa und bietet direkten Strandzugang. Ob im Meer oder im großzügigen Pool des Hotels, einem ruhigen Strandtag steht nichts im Wege.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Fahrt nach Wadduwa durch Colombo, ca. 2 Stunden inklusive kurzer Panoramafahrt
• Insgesamt etwa 4,5-stündiger Aufenthalt im Blue Water Hotel (Mittagessen eingeschlossen)

Ob lose, in Beuteln oder aromatisiert - Tee ist das bekannteste Exportprodukt der Insel. Eine Teefabrik öffnet ihre Türen für Sie und gewährt einen Einblick in den Produktionsprozess des beliebten Heißgetränks.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Panoramafahrt durch Colombo zu einer Tee- und Kautschukplantage, etwa 2 Stunden
• Besuch der Plantage und der kleinen Fabrik
• Erfrischung im Bungalow des Fabrikleiters, selbstverständlich mit einem Ceylon-Tee und einem Stück Kuchen

Die Tradition und Kultur Sri Lankas spiegelt sich in den aufwendigen Masken, anmutigen Bewegungen und leuchtenden Kostümen der Tänzer wider, die eine exklusive Show für Sie darbieten. Bevor Sie sich zur Tanzshow einfinden, entdecken Sie das lebhafte Colombo am Abend bei einem Rundgang durch Pettah, dem Basarviertel.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Erkundung des Viertels Pettah zu Fuß, gut 1 Stunde
• Kurzer Besuch des Bahnhofs Colombo Fort aus der Kolonialzeit, der ein kleines Museum beherbergt
• Fotostopp am Lotus Tower
• Etwa 30 Minuten Tanzshow mit einem Cocktail zum Anstoßen
• Abendessen mit internationalen und landestypischen Gerichten

Ein vielfältiger Ausflug, der Sie abseits der staubigen Stadt das einfache Landleben der Bewohner erkunden lässt. Erfahren Sie alles über die Aspekte des Lebens, die den Einwohnern Sri Lankas wichtig sind: Die Dorfgemeinschaft, Religion, Zimt-, Bananen-, Kautschuk- und Teeanbau und natürlich die Küche.

Der Ausflug, kurz zusammengefasst:

• Ca. 2-stündige Fahrt (je nach Verkehrslage) in einen Vorort von Colombo
• Besuch des 1700 Jahre alten buddhistischen Temples Kithsirimewan, etwa 45 Minuten
• Tuk-Tuk-Fahrt durch Millaniya, rund 15 Minuten (2 Personen pro Tuk-Tuk)
• Etwa 1-stündiger Besuch einer Agrar-Farm mit Erklärungen zum Herstellungsprozess von Zimtrinde, Naturkautschuk und Kokosnussöl
• Einfaches typisches Mittagessen auf der Farm