SRI LANKA: FROM TEMPLES TO TEA & TIGERS
- 9 Days -
Discover ancient temples, tea plantations, and vibrant cities, paired with thrilling safaris and elephant encounters. A perfect blend of culture, nature, and adventure.
Our tour offers a chance to explore the stunning interior of Sri Lanka, including the wonders of Dambulla, Sigiriya Rock, and the colonial cities of Kandy and Galle. Visit ancient temples from past civilizations, marvel at the beautiful botanical gardens in Peradeniya, meet the elephants at the Pinnawala Orphanage, and embark on a thrilling safari through Yala National Park.
SRI LANKA: FROM TEMPLES TO TEA & TIGERS
DURATION
9 Days
START CITY
Colombo
END CITY
Colombo
TOUR TYPE
Private, Group, Theme tours
LANGUAGE
English, Italian, German ...
FITNESS LEVEL
Moderate
IDEAL SEASON
All year round
IDEAL SIZE
02, 04, 06, 08 ...
MEAL PLAN
Based on personal choices
ACCOMODATION
3 to 5 Star hotels, Boutique
TRANSPORTATION
Private vehicle on disposal
SUPPORT
24 x 7
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE TOUR
Explore the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Marvel at the incredible Dambulla Rock Temple.
Discover the Buddhist relics at the Temple of the Tooth.
Watch elephants being bathed and fed at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.
Wander through the beautiful botanical gardens of Peradeniya.
Sri Lanka: From Temples to Tea & Tigers
Board your scheduled overnight flight to Colombo International Airport.
Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your local guide and transferred to Dambulla, a journey of approximately 4 hours. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.
In the morning, depart to explore the breathtaking Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 5th century AD. Also known as ‘Lion Rock,’ this citadel stands 200 meters above the jungle, offering exceptional beauty and historical significance. After lunch, continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once the royal capital of the Sinhalese kingdom and over 1000 years old. Strategically located to defend against attacks from the southeast and boasting fewer mosquitoes, Polonnaruwa is home to the impressive ruins of the Royal Palace and the magnificent Gal Vihara, renowned for its beautifully carved Buddha statues. Please note: photography is prohibited in certain areas of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and these will be clearly signposted.
After breakfast, visit the Dambulla Rock Temple, where you’ll explore impressive caves adorned with over 2,000 square meters of painted walls and ceilings, once gilded by an ancient king to mark his place of worship. Then, travel to Kandy, stopping en route at a spice garden for a tour and lunch. After checking in at your hotel, head to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic in the afternoon. This sacred site houses Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist relic and is one of the holiest shrines in the Buddhist world. In the evening, unwind while watching a vibrant cultural show, featuring traditional dances and ornate costumes. After the show and dinner, check in to your hotel for the night.
Today, you’ll visit the stunning botanical gardens in Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 species of trees, plants, orchids, and creepers. Next, enjoy a memorable trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975 to care for abandoned and injured elephants. Get up close to these majestic creatures as you watch them being fed, bathed, and trained by the wildlife authorities. In the evening, embark on a city tour of Kandy, exploring the bustling bazaar, arts and crafts center, and gem museum. Kandy, the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, withstood Dutch and Portuguese attacks for over three centuries before finally falling to the British in 1815.
This morning, depart Kandy and immerse yourself in the divine scent of Ceylon tea as you tour a sprawling tea plantation. Afterward, enjoy a brief walking tour of Nuwara Eliya, nestled amidst idyllic mountains that offer stunning views of nearby valleys, meadows, and peaks. Known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka, this tranquil district is famous for its misty hillsides and vibrant tea pickers dressed in colorful saris. After taking in the picturesque surroundings, continue on to your hotel near Yala, where you'll check in for a peaceful stay.
Enjoy the morning at leisure before heading out for an exciting jeep safari through the magnificent Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park, set against a stunning oceanfront backdrop. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, wild boars, buffaloes, bears, deer, and crocodiles, as well as numerous migratory and indigenous bird species. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard during your safari adventure!
After breakfast, head to Galle, once the chief port of Ceylon and the heart of the Dutch colonial era in the 17th century. On your city tour, explore the impressive Galle Fort and its surrounding historic buildings, which showcase the rich Dutch heritage that once dominated the country. Following the tour, travel north to Colombo for your final night, where you'll check in and relax before the end of your journey.
Transfer to the airport for your flight home.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- English-speaking driver as guide or separate tour guide as applicable.
- Private transfers as specified in the itinerary.
- Entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary.
- Meal plan according to mutual agreement, Full board in houseboat
- Local expert team assistance.
The Cost Excludes
- Travel & health insurance.
- Visa application charges.
- Camera fees.
- Beverages other than drinking water and any personal expenses.
- Ayurveda body massage charges
Express contact
If you’re interested, be sure to ask us about the optional extensions available for this itinerary!
Discover other Sri Lanka tours
Why should you holiday with us?
- Experienced local experts always at your support
- Best Price Guarantee
- Tailor-made experiences based on travelers’ preferences, interests, and budgets.
- Exclusive & Offbeat Destinations
CONTACT US
for more information on this tour
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