Navigate the streets of Colombo by tuk tuk Zip through the busy streets and markets of the Colombo Fort and Pettah Bazaar Explore the religious side of Colombo with visits to the Dutch reformed church, Red Mosque, and Buddhist and Hindu temples Visit Independence Square, the CBD, Colombo Town Hall, and other important city places Experience the contrast of the beautiful tree-lined streets of Colombo 7 and the slum-like surroundings of Pettah.
Are you ready for a real-life video game? Because that’s what it feels like to navigate Colombo by tuk tuk! Head down narrow streets, past monuments, and into some of the city’s most significant spots, exploring the way locals get around — by tuk tuk! You won’t see this side of Colombo on your own! Your Colombo tour kicks off with a brief walk through the heart of the city’s CBD and its old colonial buildings. After a quick history lesson from your local guide, it’ll be time to hop in a tuk tuk and hit the road! Also known as a rickshaw, tuk tuks are commonplace throughout Asia, including Sri Lanka. In our opinion, it’s one of the best ways to see a lot of Colombo in a little bit of time… and all from a local perspective!
Our first stop will be the Colombo harbor; during the route we’ll swing past the President’s House, the Fort Clock Tower and the Colombo Lighthouse. From there, we’ll pass through Chatham Street, which keeps adding new restaurants, pubs, and bars to its scene. This section of Colombo is particularly fascinating given that it was closed to the public for more than 30 years due to civil war and security considerations. We’ll stop briefly in front of the former passenger terminal gate in the Colombo harbor, before moving on to the heart of the trading district in Colombo — the busy streets of Pettah.
Hop off the tuk tuk and spend 20–30 minutes exploring the busy streets of Pettah, from the Red Mosque to the market stalls. Meander around, sampling local food and drinks, or shopping in the colourful shops of the market. If you’re unsure where to start, your local guide will happily point you in the right direction. Back into the tuk tuks and back to the streets! Navigating the narrow streets of Pettah has been likened to a video game; it’s non-stop dodging people, buses, lorries, bullock carts, bikes, other tuk tuks… even dogs!
Meeting/pick-up point: The Water Fountain, Level 01, World Trade Center (located in front of the Dutch hospital, next to Colombo Hilton Hotel).
Drop-off location: World Trade Center.
Duration:3.5 hours.
Start/opening time: At 8:30am.
End/closing time: At 12pm.
Languages: English.