Elephant walking in front of the historic Queens Hotel in Kandy town.

Explore Sri Lanka - 18 Days 17 Nights

Overview

Embark on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka's stunning landscapes and rich cultural heritage. Begin your adventure in Negombo, a charming coastal town with beautiful beaches and a vibrant local fish market. Explore the historical wonders of Sigiriya, home to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the endearing Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Discover the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, with its fascinating ruins and temples.

Immerse yourself in the cultural charm of Kandy, visit the revered Temple of the Tooth, and indulge in a shopping spree at Kandy City Center. Experience the enchanting beauty of the Hill Country in Nuwara Eliya, known for its tea trails, waterfalls, and breathtaking nature. Marvel at the panoramic vistas from Little Adam's Peak and encounter exotic wildlife at Yala National Park.

Unwind on the pristine beaches of Mirissa, enjoy thrilling water activities, and witness majestic whales. Explore the historic city of Galle, stroll through the Galle Fort, and visit a turtle hatchery. Finally, let yourself be engulfed in the vibrant city life of Colombo, with its fascinating museums, parks, and delectable cuisine. Depart with unforgettable memories of this remarkable journey.

DayLocationActivities
1NegomboArrival, relax on beach, visit fish market
2Negombo → Pinnawala → SigiriyaPinnawala elephant orphanage, Sigiriya Rock Fortress
3Sigiriya → PolonnaruwaExplore Polonnaruwa's ancient ruins and temples
4Sigiriya → Dambulla → KandyDambulla Cave Temple, Matale Spice Garden
5-6KandyTemple of the Tooth, Kandy Lake
7-9Kandy → Nuwara EliyaTea trails, waterfalls, nature walks
10Nuwara Eliya → EllaVisit Little Adam's Peak
11Ella → YalaYala National Park wildlife safari
12-15Yala → MirissaBeach activities, whale watching
16Mirissa → GalleGalle Fort, turtle hatchery, city tour
17Mirissa → ColomboMuseums, Galle Face Green
18Colombo → AirportDeparture

Exploration Blueprint

Day 01 - Arrival to Sri Lanka - Negombo

Arrival to Sri Lanka and Transfer to Negombo

As we welcome you to this wonderful paradise, your guide will escort you to your hotel in Negombo.

The town of Negombo, with its modest beach, stands in pride for its many major attractions. The city, with Dutch and Portuguese influence, has made a great impact on the modern city. As major attractions, the city presents the golden sandy beach experience, letting you relax at peace. Walk through the famous local fish market, which resembles the city’s many popular restaurants. The sumptuous local lobsters, crabs, prawns, and shrimp dishes would only make your stay longer. The multicultural society in the city has paved the way for the encouragement and preservation of diversified religious beliefs and attractive places such as Angurukaramulla Temple and St. Mary’s Church.

Other Attractions:

  • The Dutch Canal
  • Dutch Fort
  • Scuba Diving and Snorkeling
  • Muthurajawela Marsh

Spend overnight at your hotel preparing for an exciting tomorrow.

Overnight: Hotel in Negombo
Meals included: Breakfast

Colorful fishing boat on Negombo Beach at sunset, with golden sand and serene ocean views.
Colorful fishing boat on Negombo Beach at sunset, with golden sand and serene ocean views.

Day 02 - Negombo - Pinnawala - Sigiriya

Visit Pinnawala & Sigiriya

After breakfast, depart from Negombo to Sigiriya via Pinnawala.

As you enter Pinnawala, feel for the lonely orphan elephants who are impatiently seeking your attention. While at Pinnawala, you will be given the opportunity to observe these orphan elephants' daily routines and care for them. Bottle-feed them, play with them, and bathe them at the river. As you enjoy these momentous experiences, don’t forget to capture these moments and keep them attached to your life.

Young elephant at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage interacting with visitors in a fenced enclosure.
Young elephant at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage interacting with visitors in a fenced enclosure.

Next, you will proceed to Sigiriya, where the imaginary land lies. Sigiriya, which is a pictorial site, was once an ancient kingdom ruled by King Kashyapa, who transformed the Sigiriya rock into a gorgeous palace. The king, who murdered his own father, fled to Sigiriya palace with guilt. He built his imaginary palace and converted it into a masterpiece, which attracts plenty of tourists every year. The rock fortress includes frescoes, sculptures, archaeological sites, gardens, and ruins at present. The site is a UNESCO world heritage site.

Enjoy an elephant-back ride in the afternoon.

Spend the night at a Hotel in Sigiriya.

Overnight: Hotel in Sigiriya
Meals included: Breakfast

Majestic Sigiriya Rock with ancient ruins and lush greenery under a clear blue sky.
Majestic Sigiriya Rock with ancient ruins and lush greenery under a clear blue sky.

Day 03 - Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa

Visit Polonnaruwa

Enjoy your breakfast and proceed to the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. It’s impossible for anyone to skip being excited and thrilled, having ancient tales to narrate with ruins as proof.

Polonnaruwa is a major historical site with plenty of interesting places to visit. As an ancient kingdom, it bears witness to several civilizations, which let you witness the ruins of a garden city where a triple wall bound palaces and sanctuaries. Some attractions commonly seen in Polonnaruwa include monuments and sculptures, ruins of palaces, wall paintings belonging to the 13th century illustrating a Jataka story, and popular temples such as Lankatilaka, Gal Vihara, Rankot Vihara, and Vatadage. Parakrama Samudraya is another major attraction to the city. Minneriya National Park lets its visitors gather worldly knowledge about the wildlife of Sri Lanka.

Other Attractions:

  • Potgul Vehera
  • Massive Statue of King Parakramabahu
  • Nelum Pokuna
  • Gal Pota
  • Shiva Temple
  • Thuparamaya

Rest and relax back at your hotel in Sigiriya after a tiresome yet enthusiastic day outing at Polonnaruwa.

Overnight: Hotel in Sigiriya
Meals included: Breakfast

Ancient Polonnaruwa Vatadage with intricate stone architecture and central stupa amidst lush greenery.
Ancient Polonnaruwa Vatadage with intricate stone architecture and central stupa amidst lush greenery.

Day 04 - Sigiriya - Dambulla - Matale - Kandy

Visit Dambulla Cave Temple and Spice Gardens

Pack up and prepare to depart to the Royal City of Sri Lanka. Enjoy a scenic road trip to Kandy, passing breathtaking views throughout.

Your first stop at Dambulla Cave Temple will give you an amazing opportunity to witness the insight of the rock temple. These caves were home to King Valagamba for 12 years when he hid from enemies. As a token of gratitude, he converted the caves into remarkable Buddhist temples, which include monuments and seventy-three images of Lord Buddha. The five caves are named “Cave of Gods”, “Cave of Great Kings”, “Cave of Great New Temple”, “Cave of Western Temple”, and “Cave of New Temple”. It has been noticed that many monks over the decades have been meditating in and around these caves.

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple with white structures under a rock overhang.
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple with white structures under a rock overhang.

Next, visit the Spice Garden in Matale and capture the endemic Spices our farmers grow. With a history of quality spice exports, the spice garden in Matale is a true representation of our preserved traditions. Walk around and notice Spices such as black pepper, ginger, red chillies, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, and vanilla as major spice plantations.

Traditional Moulin à huile at Matale Herbal and Spice Garden amidst lush greenery.
Traditional Moulin à huile at Matale Herbal and Spice Garden amidst lush greenery.

Call it a day with all the exciting experiences gathered and spend the night at Kandy, the Royal City, preparing for another cheerful day tomorrow.

Overnight: Hotel in Kandy
Meals included: Breakfast


Day 05 and 06 - Kandy City Tour

Kandy City Tour

Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka, was once the Royal Kingdom and serves as a vital city for all Sri Lankans. Traditions, rituals, and customs are celebrated annually, culminating in the famous “Kandy Procession,” a tribute and encouragement for future generations.

The Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, is a sacred temple that houses the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Enjoy cultural shows in the city, shop for top brands at Kandy City Center, and take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake. Don’t forget to pick up some souvenirs to remember your memorable tour to Kandy.

The royal beauty of Kandy, with its enchanting and breathtaking places of interest, will transport you to a magical paradise.

Spend a peaceful night at your hotel in Kandy and enjoy the city’s tranquility.

Overnight: Hotel in Kandy
Meals included: Breakfast

Elephant walking in front of the historic Queens Hotel in Kandy town.
Elephant walking in front of the historic Queens Hotel in Kandy town.

Day 07 to Day 09 - Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Hill Country Wonder

Enjoy breakfast and embark on a journey to Sri Lanka's most exciting tourist destination—Nuwara Eliya. Known for its endless charm and beauty, Nuwara Eliya offers captivating landscapes like never before. Take a leisurely walk through this magical city while enjoying the best-ripened strawberries.

While in Nuwara Eliya, visit various attractions that will keep you energized, relaxed, and entertained. These include tea trails and tea factories, tall waterfalls, nature walks, cycling, hiking, golf, horse and pony riding, canoeing, boat rides, and visits to fresh vegetable and strawberry farms. Explore the unbelievable nature and enjoy panoramic views that will steal your heart.

Spend the nights nestled in the cool breeze, feeling content and at peace.

Overnight: Hotel in Nuwara Eliya
Meals included: Breakfast

Boat tour with a houseboat and speedboat on the water in Nuwara Eliya’s green landscapes.
Boat tour with a houseboat and speedboat on the water in Nuwara Eliya’s green landscapes.

Day 10 - Nuwara Eliya to Ella

Visit Little Adam's Peak

After breakfast, head to the famous "Miracle Island," also known as Little Adam's Peak. This spot is a popular destination for tourists and is renowned as one of the major attractions in the area. With its breathtaking scenic beauty, the mountain range stands proud. The magical 'Ella Gap' is what makes Little Adam’s Peak so intriguing. The biodiverse mountain range spreads over 10 acres, offering an unforgettable experience.

Enjoy your day and spend the night at your hotel in Ella.

Overnight: Hotel in Ella
Meals included: Breakfast

Little Adam's Peak with lush greenery and a winding path surrounded by rolling hills under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.
Little Adam's Peak with lush greenery and a winding path surrounded by rolling hills under a clear blue sky with scattered clouds.

Day 11 - Ella to Yala National Park

Visit Yala National Park

Start your day with a thrilling adventure after breakfast at the hotel. Your next stop will be the Yala National Park, the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. This is your chance to experience amazing wildlife, including various mammals, birds, reptiles, trees, and flora. The park is famous for its high density of Leopards and the rich diversity of mammal species, with up to forty-four different types.

Some of the animals you can spot include Wild Elephants, Sloth Bears, Wild Water Buffalo, Hornbills, Jungle Fowl, Wood Pigeons, Black-Headed Ibis, Pelicans, and many more.

Let the soothing sounds of nature enhance your experience.

Enjoy your night at your hotel in Yala.

Overnight: Hotel in Yala
Meals included: Breakfast

Yala National Park scene with two deer facing each other in shallow water amidst lush greenery.
Yala National Park scene with two deer facing each other in shallow water amidst lush greenery.

Day 12 to Day 15 - Yala to Mirissa

Beach Fun in Mirissa

The next stop on your tour is Mirissa, famous for its clean beaches and golden sunsets. Enjoy an amazing four days filled with beach activities like volleyball, swimming, diving, scuba diving, boat riding, jet skiing, and deep-sea fishing.

Whale watching is one of the top attractions in Mirissa Beach, offering a unique experience.

Spend the nights relaxing at your hotel in Mirissa.

Overnight: Hotel in Mirissa
Meals included: Breakfast

Aerial view of Mirissa Beach with turquoise waters, sandy shores, and a small bay under a partly cloudy sunset sky.
Aerial view of Mirissa Beach with turquoise waters, sandy shores, and a small bay under a partly cloudy sunset sky.

Day 16 - Mirissa to Galle

Galle City Tour

You will be taken to Galle, a must-visit destination in any Sri Lankan tour. Known as a trade spot in the ancient past, Galle offers a blend of salty winds, exotic scenery, and the remarkable scent of spices.

Major attractions in Galle include:

  • National Museum
  • Galle Lighthouse
  • Galle Fort with boutique shops
  • Spice Garden
  • Numerous beach fun activities

One of the unique experiences here is the turtle hatchery, a major attraction in the area.

Spend the night at your hotel in Mirissa.

Overnight: Hotel in Mirissa
Meals included: Breakfast

Galle Dutch Fort with historic lighthouse, palm trees, and a coastal pathway with visitors under a partly cloudy sky.
Galle Dutch Fort with historic lighthouse, palm trees, and a coastal pathway with visitors under a partly cloudy sky.

Day 17 - Mirissa to Colombo

Colombo City Tour

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before heading out for an exciting city tour in Colombo.

Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is not only a commercial hub but also a lively, well-maintained city with plenty of entertaining activities and places to visit.

Some major attractions include:

  • Colombo Dutch Museum
  • Colombo Harbour
  • Arts Gallery
  • Parks and Galle Face Green
  • Popular temples, churches, and kovils
  • The National Zoo
  • Shopping complexes
  • Delicious local foods

The city tour promises to be fascinating from start to finish.

Spend the night at your hotel in Colombo.

Overnight: Hotel in Colombo
Meals included: Breakfast

Stunning Colombo city skyline at night with the illuminated Lotus Tower and modern skyscrapers.
Stunning Colombo city skyline at night with the illuminated Lotus Tower and modern skyscrapers.

Day 18 - Colombo to Airport

Departure

It's time to bid goodbye and head home. After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport with hopes of seeing you again soon.

Meals included: Breakfast


Package Inclusions

  • Accommodation at 3-Star, 4-Star, or 5-Star Hotels
  • Food and Site visiting tickets
  • Breakfast
  • Transport in an Air-Conditioned Private Car / Van
    Accompanying English Speaking Chauffeur Guide Throughout the Tour

  • Return Airport Transfer
  • Unlimited Travel Distance
  • All Applicable Taxes

Package Exclusions

  • Visa Fees and Requirements
  • Domestic Transfers and Flights Not Stated in the Deal Offer
  • Travel Insurances
  • Tips, Portage or Any Expense of Personal Nature
  • Camera and Video Permits to Certain Sites