THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
- 10 Days -
Climb Sigiriya Rock, explore Dambulla caves and Polonnaruwa ruins, visit cultural Kandy, and tour Nuwara Eliya’s tea plantations.
Sri Lanka’s incredible diversity offers enough to captivate even the most seasoned traveler for weeks. However, for those with limited time, this itinerary covers the essential highlights.
From Buddhist cities and ancient fortresses to fragrant spice gardens and sacred temples, you’ll experience the rich history and vibrant culture of the island. The lush, tropical landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for your journey. With a cycle ride, historic city visits, and temple explorations, this is an immersive itinerary—busy yet balanced—with time to relax and soak up the tropical sun.
THE BEST OF SRI LANKA
DURATION
10 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
Ascend the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress for stunning panoramic views.
Uncover the wonders of Dambulla’s cave temple and the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa.
Stroll through the scenic lakeside town of Kandy, rich in culture and history.
Experience the lush greenery and tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya.
The Best of Sri Lanka
International flight to Colombo.
Upon arrival in Colombo, you’ll be warmly greeted by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Wattala, a peaceful coastal suburb. The rest of the day is yours to relax, enjoy the hotel’s amenities, or explore the local area at your own pace.
After breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive (approximately four hours) through coconut palms, paddy fields, and banana plantations to reach Sigiriya, where we check into our hotel for the next few nights.
In the afternoon, we take on the Sigiriya rock fortress, also known as Lion Rock. This impressive 5th-century fortress, built as a refuge from invaders, rises 655ft (200m) above the plains. From the base, where water gardens and a moat surround the site, we climb a series of steep steps and gangways, passing rock portraits of native maidens holding flowers and temple offerings. At the summit, we find the remains of the King’s Summer Palace, offering panoramic views that stretch for miles.
After the descent, relax and cool off by the hotel pool as the day winds down.
This morning, we transfer to Polonnaruwa, the 10th-century capital of Sri Lanka. On arrival, we explore the ancient city by bicycle, cycling past well-preserved temples, palaces, dagobas, and stunning Buddhist sculptures that reflect the height of Sinhalese civilization.
After a traditional village lunch, we head to Minneriya National Park for an afternoon 4x4 safari. The park is renowned for its elephant population, especially during the “Gathering” (July–September), when large herds congregate around the reservoir — a truly unforgettable wildlife experience.
Today begins with a short drive to Dambulla to explore its iconic Cave Temple, home to ancient Buddhist murals and over 150 statues dating back to the 1st century BCE.
We then continue to Hiriwadunna village for an immersive rural experience — riding a hand-tractor, trying traditional fishing, and walking through scenic paddy fields. Afterward, we return to the hotel for a relaxing afternoon at leisure.
Today, we journey into the hills to the charming town of Kandy. En route, we make a stop at a spice garden near Matale, where we’ll discover the various spices and herbs grown in the region. It’s also a great opportunity to purchase fresh spices, massage oils, and Ayurvedic medicines.
Once we arrive in Kandy, a picturesque lakeside town, you’ll have some free time to unwind. After the more active days in Sigiriya, take the afternoon to relax at the hotel or leisurely stroll into the town. You can explore the local market stalls, enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake, or simply soak in the tranquil atmosphere of Kandy.
This morning, we explore Kandy and visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, renowned for its orchid collection and over 4,000 plant species spread across 147 acres beside the Mahaweli River.
In the afternoon, we visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, home to Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist relic. We then take in panoramic views from a hilltop Buddha statue and visit a gem museum. In the evening, enjoy an optional cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dance and fire walking.
This morning, we embark on a scenic three-hour train ride through the misty tea hills, heading towards Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England." Located at 6,128ft (1,868m) above sea level, this charming town was once a favoured cool retreat for the British.
Upon arrival, we visit a tea plantation and factory, where we’ll learn about the fascinating process of turning raw green leaves into the iconic "Ceylon Tea." We’ll also have the opportunity to savor a cup of pure, freshly brewed tea.
After the visit, there’s time to explore Nuwara Eliya itself. The town is renowned for its Colonial-era bungalows and Tudor-style hotels, set against a backdrop of lush green hillsides and a tranquil lake, offering a picturesque setting to unwind and take in the beauty of the area.
After breakfast, we head to Kitulgala, a lush riverside town known for its natural beauty and the Kelani River. We visit the historic Kitulgala bridge, made famous as a filming location for the 1957 film The Bridge on the River Kwai.
Adventurers may choose to enjoy an optional white-water rafting experience, available for an additional fee, with routes ranging from gentle rides to Grade III rapids—depending on water conditions and group size. In the late afternoon, we continue to Colombo and check into our hotel for the night.
After breakfast, the trip comes to a close. Safe travels!
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!
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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
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