07.00: Embark on a captivating journey with a pick-up from your hotel, as you head towards the charming city of Galle.
09.00: Visit the historic Galle Dutch Fort, an architectural marvel built by the Portuguese in 1588 on Sri Lanka's southwest coast. With its 14 bastions, the fortress is an exquisite blend of European architectural styles and South Asian traditions. It stands as the best-preserved and most exceptional example of a fortified city built by Europeans in Asia. Recognizing its significance, Unesco designated the Galle Dutch Fort as a World Heritage Site in 1988. As you explore, you'll come across fascinating landmarks like the tower and lighthouse on the Utrecht bastion, built to commemorate Queen Victoria's diamond jubilee in 1883, and the Baroque-style Protestant church erected in 1775 CE.
12.00: Proceed to Balapitiya
14.00: indulge in a mesmerising River Safari at Madu Ganga, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka's Southern Province. The Madu Ganga River Boat Safari takes you through the serene beauty of the Balapitiya area and the pristine 915-hectare coastal wetland environment, where the river meets the Indian Ocean. During the boat journey, you'll witness kraal fishing structures and fishermen in rowing boats, as well as the graceful flight of pond herons and blue kingfishers, among other wetland birds. Explore a cinnamon island, pay your respects at Temple Island, and experience fish treatment during this enchanting boat excursion.
16.00: Visit the Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda, where you can witness the conservation efforts for these majestic creatures. Learn about their life cycle and how the hatchery works to protect and release them back into the ocean.
16.30: your eventful day concludes as you proceed back to the hotel where you were picked-up, cherishing the memories of the Galle Dutch Fort, scenic river safari, the turtle hatchery visit, and the enchanting experiences in Balapitiya and Kosgoda.