Southern Coast Highlights from Mattala
(SKU: LK60750500) Experience two of the most unique experiences on the south coast of Sri Lanka. Visit Handunugoda virgin white tea factory, the only of its kind as well as the UNESCO world heritage site, the Galle city, and its infamous dutch fort complex.
Highlights
- Handunugoda tea factory.
- Stilt fishermen in Koggala.
- Galle fort.
Includes
- Transport throughout the tour in an air-conditioned vehicle.
- Service of an English-speaking chauffeur.
- Hotel pickup & drop-off from/to Hambantota.
- 1-Liter of bottled mineral water per person.
- All taxes & service charges.
Additional
- Food or drinks.
- Gratuities (Optional).
- Expenses of personal nature.
What to Expect
You will be picked up from your hotel in Hambantota by 0800 hrs. Ensure that you bring a packed breakfast with you if you are unable to have your meal at the hotel.
You will reach your first destination, Handunugoda tea factory by approximately 1000 hrs.
Handunugoda factory is famous for its virgin white tea, which is one of the most expensive teas in the world. The tea is plucked and made without being touched by humans, partially following an ancient Chinese tea plucking ritual. You will be guided around the factory and allowed to try and buy virgin white tea, along with many other tea types. Handunugoda is also one of the only tea factories in Sri Lanka which is close to the coast.
At 1130 hrs you will be travelling to Ahangama for a meet-up with stilt fishermen, who are one of the most iconic figures of Sri Lanka. You will be able to see them fishing and learn how they do it by speaking to one of the fishermen.
After that, you will be leaving for Galle city by approximately 1230 hrs. Once you reach Galle, you will be having lunch at a restaurant of your choice.
By approximately 1430 hrs go on a guided walk through Galle’s historic 17C dutch fort - a UNESCO world heritage site. Galle’s natural harbor has long been a hub of trade dating back to ancient times. The accidental arrival of the Portuguese Lorenzo de Almeida in 1505, when his fleet of ships steered off course following a storm at sea, changed the history of this island nation. The Portuguese were followed by the Dutch and then the British in 1796. With each occupation, Galle’s landscape changed and the cultural influences remained. Galle fort covers nearly four sq. km and is protected by 12 bastions and connecting ramparts.
Wonder the maze of narrow cobblestone paved roadways lined with colonial period buildings still in use and old merchant houses where generations of Moorish families still live. Take a walk along the sturdy ramparts looking out to sea and visit colonial period churches, the lighthouse, and museums. Along the way, stop by for a cup of Ceylon Tea or fresh king coconut. This fascinating excursion will give you a memorable glimpse into life within Galle fort – one of the best-preserved colonial Forts in Asia. After a nice two and a half hours spent experiencing its glory, you will be leaving Galle at 1630 hrs.
You will be taking two hours to return to Hambantota. Your vehicle will drop you off at your hotel at 1830 hrs completing your tour.
Additional Note
Comfortable walking shoes recommended for this tour. Drive time may change due to unpredictable road traffic. Photography stops on the way can be arranged but within locations with reasonable parking areas.
