Madu Ganga River Cruise & Galle Fort
-
port
Galle, Sri Lanka
-
activityLevel
Moderate Activity
-
excursionType
All
-
wheelchairAccessible
No
-
startingAtPrice
$209
-
minimumAge
Information Not Currently Available
-
duration
Approximately 7¾ Hours
-
mealsIncluded
Meals included
Old Town of Galle and its Fortifications
"Founded in the 16th century by the Portuguese, Galle reached the height of its development in the 18th century, before the arrival of the British. It is the best example of a fortified city built by Europeans in South and South-East Asia, showing the interaction between European architectural styles and South Asian traditions."
Embark on a 90-minute journey to Balapitiya, where an exciting river safari awaits you.
Cruise in a small boat on the Madu Ganga River, revealing another facet of splendid Sri Lanka. Your journey takes you through dozens of mangrove-forested islets and an eco-reserve considered to be a breeding ground for many endangered species of plants and animals.
An ornithologist’s paradise, this wetland has approximately 46 species of birds, including fourteen aquatic varieties. Watch out for water monitors, kingfishers, eagles, monkeys and colorful butterflies. Stop along the way on an island to watch rural Sri Lankans going about their daily activities -- coir making, cinnamon farming, coconut-leaf weaving.
Stop to visit a 200-year-old Sri Lankan temple -- a chance to contemplate eastern religion.
After lunch at the Radisson Blu hotel, visit Galle Fort. Enter through the old gates and drive around or walk on the ramparts, to take in the spectacular view of Galle.This is one of the best-preserved examples of 17th century colonial fortifications in the world.
The Dutch Church offers an excellent example of colonial architecture and is the oldest Protestant church still in use in Sri Lanka. Completed and consecrated in 1755, it features a floor covered by 20 heavily embossed and engraved gravestones, moved by the British into this church in 1853 from other locations.
During your free time, explore the surrounding area or browse the shops displaying an interesting variety of antiques, jewelry and handicrafts.
Return to the pier and rejoin the ship.
Please note: You must remove your shoes at one or more location(s). Modest attire is required; knees, shoulders and midriffs must be covered; shorts and short skirts are not allowed. Shoes and hats must be removed before you enter the temple(s). Bring along a pair of thick socks to protect your feet from the hot pavement. Serving alcohol is prohibited in Sri Lanka on full moon days and certain religious holidays - alcohol will not be served in case of operation on those days.