Colombo in 1 Day for Friends - Port City Colombo — modern waterfront development
In Collaboration with Colombo tuk tuk journeyes. Updated on February 15, 2026.
Private 4-hour tuk‑tuk city tour of Colombo with an English-speaking tuk‑tuk driver. Visit Port City Colombo, key cultural landmarks in Pettah, Galle Face/Lotus Tower area, national parks and markets. Bottled water and listed entry fees/admissions (per activity inclusions) are included; some attractions have separate entrance fees (listed as excluded). Tour includes hotel or port pick-up within/附近
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Colombo tuk tuk journeyes, inspired by the tour Tuk Tuk city tour is very cheap in colombo( All inclusive tour). Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Port City Colombo — modern waterfront development
- Jami Ul-Alfar (Red Mosque) in Pettah
- Colombo Lotus Tower skyline views
- Gangaramaya Temple on Beira Lake
- Viharamahadevi Park & Colombo Town Hall
Itinerary
Day 1
Private 4‑hour tuk‑tuk tour. Tour starts at the confirmed pickup time (example schedule below uses a 09:00 start). The driver is your English‑speaking tuk‑tuk driver (not a lecture guide). Travel time between stops is included in each activity block.
Port City Colombo (drive & short stop)
View and short stop at the Port City Colombo development area to see the new waterfront precincts and take photos. Time includes arrival from pickup point and short walk/viewing.
Tips from local experts:
- Bring a hat and sunscreen — the seaside breeze can be deceptive.
- Keep a small bottle of water handy between stops (bottled water provided on board).
- Allow the driver to park in permitted areas; large luggage should remain at pickup/drop-off.
National Maritime Museum (short visit)
Exterior and brief interior visit to the maritime museum housed in the old Dutch prison; view exhibits relating to Sri Lanka's maritime history (entry included per activity inclusions).
Tips from local experts:
- Carry a light jacket for indoor galleries; air conditioning can be cool.
- Photography may be limited for some exhibits — ask museum staff if unsure.
- Keep valuables secure when walking between the tuk‑tuk and museum entrance.
Jami Ul-Alfar (Red Mosque), Pettah
Short photo stop and exterior visit to the historic Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (Red Mosque) in Pettah; busy market area nearby.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly and be prepared to remove shoes for any interior visits.
- Pettah streets are narrow and busy — keep personal items close and avoid large bags.
- If you plan to enter, avoid visiting during primary prayer times; follow any local instructions from mosque staff.
Lotus Tower (external viewing)
View Colombo Lotus Tower from the surrounding roads and public viewpoints. Note: tower entry fee is excluded per activity details — this stop is primarily for skyline views and photos.
Tips from local experts:
- If you plan to visit the observation deck, notify the driver in advance — entry fee is not included.
- Traffic around the tower can be heavy; allow extra time when the route passes Beira Lake.
- Keep your camera ready for skyline and Beira Lake photo opportunities from the roadside.
Sri Kailawasanathan Swami Devasthanam Kovil (Hindu Temple)
Short visit to Colombo's historic Hindu temple on Sea Street. Admire South‑Indian inspired architecture and colorful interiors.
Tips from local experts:
- Dress modestly; shoulders and knees should be covered for temple visits.
- Remove shoes before entering inner temple areas and carry a small bag for them.
- Ask your driver or temple attendant before taking photos of worshippers or inner sanctums.
Viharamahadevi Park (Victoria Park)
Walk or short stroll in Colombo's largest and oldest public park, located in front of the Town Hall; good for photos and a short rest.
Tips from local experts:
- There is shaded seating — take a short break here to rest between stops.
- Watch for local vendors selling cold drinks and snacks if you need a quick refreshment.
- Keep children nearby near water features and open lawns; the park can be busy on weekends.
Colombo Town Hall (exterior viewing)
Drive‑by and short exterior visit to the colonial‑era Colombo Town Hall located adjacent to Viharamahadevi Park.
Tips from local experts:
- The Town Hall is best viewed from the park; avoid blocking entrances when the tuk‑tuk parks.
- If you need to use public restrooms, ask the driver for the nearest approved facility.
- Be mindful of local events — access can be restricted during civic functions.
Gangaramaya Temple (Beira Lake)
Visit the important and eclectic Gangaramaya Temple complex beside Beira Lake. Note: small temple entrance fee noted as excluded in the activity details.
Tips from local experts:
- There may be a small entrance donation requested — bring small change in local currency.
- Footwear is removed before entering inner shrine areas; wear easy‑to‑remove shoes.
- The temple complex has steps in places; allow time for a slow, careful walk if needed.
Traditional jewellery / gem shop (St. Anthony's Mawatha area)
Stop at a reputable jewellery/gem showroom in the St. Anthony's Mawatha area for viewing local gems and traditional jewellery (entry/visit included).
Tips from local experts:
- Do not accept offers to move to unfamiliar addresses; stay with the group and the driver.
- If you inspect gemstones, ask for clear identification and verification from the seller.
- Keep receipts and any documents provided if you make a purchase; customs rules may apply on export.
Ceylon tea shop (short tasting & browsing)
Visit a Ceylon tea shop for sampling and browsing local tea varieties; included per activity inclusions is an entry/visit to a tea shop.
Tips from local experts:
- If you want to buy loose leaf tea, ask for packaging suitable for travel (airtight tins or sealed bags).
- Declare large quantities of tea at customs according to your country's import rules.
- Sample first — different Ceylon teas have distinct strengths; staff can recommend based on taste.
Traditional handicrafts / mask shop (Bauddhaloka Mawatha area)
Visit a traditional handicraft and mask shop to view wood masks and local crafts; time allocated for browsing and short purchases.
Tips from local experts:
- Masks and woodcrafts can be fragile — ask for careful packaging if you purchase for travel.
- If transporting on flights, check airline carry/checked baggage rules for fragile goods.
- Bargaining is common in local markets — be polite and agree prices before handing over cash.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Friends |
| Transfers | - |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 11 |
| Total Places | 11 |
| Activities Types | Attraction, Culture, Outdoor, Shopping, Meal |
