Behind Bars in Colombo

Exploring Colombo’s nightlife on the Behind Bars in Colombo tour promises more than just drinks—it’s a glimpse into the local culture, a chance to savor Sri Lanka’s distinctive spirit, and a fun way to connect with the city’s vibrant bar scene. This 2.5-hour experience takes you through a handful of iconic and slightly “dodgy” bars, with a friendly host leading the way, sharing stories, and making sure your glass stays topped up.

What really stands out is the opportunity to taste different types of arrack, Sri Lanka’s beloved local spirit, coupled with some thoughtfully chosen snacks at each stop. It’s an easy-going, sociable exploration that balances local flavor with a relaxed night out. One thing to keep in mind: the tour ends in the busy heritage district of Colombo Fort, so plan your evening accordingly.

This experience is perfect for those who enjoy a casual drink, love hearing lively stories behind local customs, and want to see a different side of Colombo—less touristy, more authentic. It’s especially suitable for travelers who appreciate a friendly group atmosphere, are open to trying new drinks, and don’t mind a little “dodgeyness” in their bars.

Key Points

• Authentic local experience: visit several iconic, slightly “dodgy” bars with a local guide.
• Taste of Sri Lankan spirits: try various types of arrack, the country’s signature spirit.
• Inclusive for most: suitable for most travelers, with options for beers and non-arrack drinks.
• Relaxed pace: 2.5 hours filled with stories, drinks, and snacks.
• Convenient logistics: includes transport from start to finish, but not back to your hotel.
• Small group size: maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a friendly, personalized vibe.

An In-Depth Look at the Colombo Bar Crawl

Starting Point and Set-up

The tour kicks off at Randoli RNB88 Bernard Soysa Mawatha in Colombo 5 at 6:00 pm, a location that’s easy to access via public transportation. From the moment you arrive, your host—who is typically knowledgeable and friendly—welcomes you into the fold. Expect a relaxed meet-up where the group size remains small (up to 15 people), fostering a more intimate experience compared to crowded pub crawls.

The Bars and Their Charm

Your host takes you on a route through a handful of iconic yet “dodgy” bars—a description that hints at their unpolished, authentic character. They’re not polished upscale venues but rather places where locals hang out, and where you’ll get a true taste of Colombo’s bar culture. Each bar offers a signature atmosphere; some might have quirky decor, while others are simply popular for their no-frills vibe.

Tasting Sri Lanka’s Signature Spirit: Arrack

One of the tour’s highlights is the sampling of different types of arrack. Arrack is Sri Lanka’s traditional distilled spirit, made from the sap of coconut flowers or sugarcane, giving it a unique flavor profile. Your guide shares stories and insights about this drink, which is an essential part of Sri Lankan social life and culture. According to reviews, the host—often referred to as “Brindley”—knows his spirits well and can tell engaging stories about the drink’s history and production.

However, if arrack isn’t your thing, don’t worry; you can request a local beer or another available drink. This flexibility keeps the experience accessible, whether you’re a spirits enthusiast or more of a beer lover.

Snacks and Atmosphere

At each stop, you’ll enjoy signature bar snacks handpicked by your guide. These are simple but well-chosen to complement the drinks—think traditional Sri Lankan bites that add flavor and a touch of local culinary culture. These snacks aren’t just fillers; they add a layer of authenticity and make the experience more memorable.

The Final Stop in Colombo Fort

Your night ends in Colombo Fort, the city’s historic district, at a cool pub that embodies the area’s heritage charm. This is a nice spot to wind down, perhaps reflect on the stories shared, and enjoy the lively atmosphere of the city’s old trading hub.

Transport and Practicalities

The tour includes transport from the start to the end point, which means you can focus on enjoying the evening without worrying about logistics. However, the transportation back to your hotel isn’t included, so plan your evening accordingly—maybe stay nearby or arrange your own ride. The tour begins promptly at 6:00 pm, giving you a taste of Colombo’s nightlife at a lively yet manageable pace.

Price and Value

At $75 per person, this tour offers a balanced mix of local drinks, snacks, and cultural insights. For this price, you’re getting not just drinks but an experience—stories, local flavors, and a glimpse into Colombo’s less touristy bar scene. Considering that each stop includes a drink and snack, the overall value is good, especially if you’re keen on exploring local spirits and meeting new people.

What Travelers Have Said

While the tour currently has no formal reviews, the descriptions highlight its fun, relaxed nature. The fact that the host is known for sharing great stories and guiding guests through an authentic part of Colombo adds to its appeal. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, which many travelers find more enjoyable than large, impersonal tours.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers curious about local Sri Lankan drinks and the casual bar scene. It’s perfect if you’re looking to socialize in a friendly environment and enjoy stories behind the spirits while sampling the vibe of Colombo’s more authentic pubs. It’s also a good choice for those who prefer a laid-back evening rather than a structured sightseeing tour.

However, if you’re looking for upscale venues or a more polished experience, this might not be your best fit. And if you’re traveling with children or prefer quieter venues, keep in mind that the tour is geared toward adult travelers.

Final Thoughts

Behind Bars in Colombo offers a genuine, fun introduction to the city’s nightlife and local spirits. It’s not about hitting fancy cocktail bars but about experiencing Colombo as locals do—over a few drinks, some snacks, and plenty of stories. The tour’s relaxed pace, small-group setting, and focus on authentic venues make it a memorable way to spend an evening.

This experience provides excellent value for those interested in Sri Lanka’s drinking culture or wanting a different perspective on Colombo. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or part of a small group, you’ll appreciate the friendly atmosphere and the chance to explore some of the city’s more colorful bars.

In short, if you love local spirits, enjoy a good story, and want an authentic night out, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
The tour is primarily focused on tasting local spirits and enjoying drinks at each stop. If you prefer not to drink alcohol, you can request a local beer or other non-arrack options, but the experience is designed around sampling and socializing.

Does the tour include transportation back to my hotel?
No, transportation at the end of the tour back to your hotel is not included. You should plan to arrange your own return or stay nearby the final location.

What’s the start time and where do we meet?
The tour begins at 6:00 pm at Randoli RNB88 Bernard Soysa Mawatha, Colombo 5. It’s a convenient location near public transportation.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, providing enough time to enjoy a relaxed evening without feeling rushed.

Can I join if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, the tour accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers, making it a great way to meet people and share a fun evening with others.

What if I don’t like arrack?
Just let your host know! You can opt for a local beer or another drink available at the bars, ensuring you still enjoy your evening.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not recommended for children, as it involves alcohol tasting and is geared toward adult guests.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers snacks, a drink at each bar, bottled water, and transport from the start to the end point of the tour.

To sum it up, Behind Bars in Colombo offers an engaging, authentic look at the city’s nightlife through the lens of its local spirits and bars. It’s a fantastic choice for curious travelers who want an informal, lively evening — perfect for those keen on trying something different in Sri Lanka’s capital.