Colombo City & Kelaniya Temple
Duration: 8 hours
Tour Code: cmb-001
Price:
$149.00 per person
Free
Discover the charms of Colombo on this all-encompassing tour of its renowned downtown attractions and magnificent Kelaniya Temple which sits on the edge of town.
Leaving by coach from the pier, you will first proceed to Kelaniya Temple, a religious center that the Buddhists hold especially hallowed because Buddha is said to have visited here. As you explore the temple, be sure to notice the exquisite artwork depicting the history of Sri Lanka.
Continuing on, you'll begin a definitive tour of Colombo, the country's largest and perhaps most influential city. Driving past icons like the clock tower, bustling Pettah bazaar and the affluent residential district of Cinnamon Gardens, you will begin to understand the diversity of this great city on the western coast of Sri Lanka. Making your way past the University of Colombo and Independence Square, you will arrive at the esteemed National Museum for a visit. Its collection of antiques and objects d'art beautifully expresses the island's cultured side. The more than 4,000 palm leaf manuscripts housed here are of particular interest.
Following your time at the museum, you will be transferred to the elegant Cinnamon Grand hotel (or similar property), where you will dine on a sumptuous lunch of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. Afterwards, you will re-board your coach and make your way to one of Sri Lanka's lovely Hindu temples. Although Buddhism is the island's major religion, Hinduism was introduced during the reign of the Tamil kings in the second century B.C.
Time permitting, your excursion may include a shopping stop where you can seek out some signature Sri Lankan merchandise such as precious gem-studded jewelry and antiques to take home.
Please note: This tour includes approximately 2-hours of walking, plus any additional walking at the guests' discretion if the shopping stop is included. There will be some uneven surfaces and steps to negotiate. The tour is available to wheelchair guests who have a collapsible wheelchair, are able to make their own way on and off the coach and have a companion to assist them. Those with mobility concerns are cautioned to evaluate their personal level of stamina and ability. Weather appropriate clothing; sun cap; sunglasses and flat comfortable walking shoes are suggested. Proper attire is required at the religious sites and shoulders and knees must be covered. Shorts, tank tops and short skirts are not permitted. Due to the high temperature of the pavement, it is recommended guests wear thick socks. The order of the sights viewed or visited may vary.