Gently gliding through the mangroves of the Bentota Ganga, surrounded by lush greenery, exotic bird calls and, with a bit of luck, water monitors resting along the riverbanks – a relaxing escape after a short city tour through vibrant Colombo.
This excursion combines nature, culture and relaxing time by the sea into a varied shore experience along Sri Lanka’s beautiful southwest coast.
At the impressive Kande Vihara Temple, you will gain insights into Sri Lankan Buddhism and the country’s unique religious diversity. Between prayer halls, incense and everyday temple life, authentic impressions of local culture unfold naturally.
Itinerary & Timing
All times are approximate and may vary slightly depending on traffic, weather conditions and your ship’s layover schedule.
07:30 AM – Pick-up directly at your ship in the Port of Colombo by your English/German-speaking SriLanka-Explorer tour guide
08:00–09:00 AM – Drive through the awakening city of Colombo with first impressions of the capital before continuing along the west coast towards Bentota
10:30 AM – Visit to the Kande Vihara Temple with insights into Buddhism and daily religious life in Sri Lanka
11:30 AM – Boat safari through the mangroves of the Bentota Ganga Discover tropical birds, water monitors and the fascinating nature along the river
12:30 PM – Visit to a sea turtle conservation project
01:30 PM – Traditional Sri Lankan lunch by the beach including 1 soft drink
02:30 PM – Free time at the beach & opportunity for a swim in the Indian Ocean (depending on your ship’s layover time)
04:00 PM – Relaxed drive back towards Colombo
Approx. 06:00 PM – Return to your ship at the port
Well Taken Care Of Along the Way
Traditional Sri Lankan lunch by the beach including 1 soft drink as well as drinking water during the tour.
Included Services
Pick-up directly at your ship in Colombo
English speaking SriLanka-Explorer tour guide
Transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
Short Colombo city tour
Visit to the Kande Vihara Temple
Boat safari through the mangroves of the Bentota River
Visit to a sea turtle conservation project
Traditional Sri Lankan lunch including 1 soft drink
1 bottle of water during the excursion
Beach time & optional swimming in the ocean (depending on your ship’s layover time)
Guaranteed punctual return to your ship
No minimum number of participants
Maximum 20 participants
Prices
€ 65 per adult
€ 35 per child (4–11 years)
€ 0 for children 0–3 years (without own seat in the vehicle)
Important Information
For the visit to the Kande Vihara Temple, shoes must be removed and shoulders and knees should be covered (for example with a scarf or shawl).
Access to the temple includes some stairs, however the climb is considered moderate and generally easily manageable.
Feel free to bring your swimwear and a towel. Depending on your ship’s layover time, there may be an opportunity for a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean.
For all excursions, we recommend bringing sun protection, mosquito repellent, any necessary medication and/or glasses, and of course your camera — many wonderful photo opportunities await you throughout the day.
Please note that a transit visa may be required for your shore excursion. Detailed information should have been provided by your cruise line.
