Explore during this seven-day private tour Sri Lanka high and low with this fascinating round-trip starting in the capital, Colombo, and taking an inland loop that covers all the main historic, cultural and natural attractions of this magical island. Discover a world of lush landscapes, picturesque lakeside cities, historic temples and ancient citadels and meet some of the friendliest and gentlest creatures in the animal kingdom.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Colombo: Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital is both a historic city packed with colonial architecture and a modern metropolis with soaring skyscrapers.
Dambulla: An icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the unique drawings in magnificently constructed five cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla.
Kandy: This beautiful city is home to the outstanding Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its associated palaces and gardens.
Sigiriya: The ‘Lion Rock’ rises almost 200 metres above the jungle, offerings stunning panoramic views that will amaze your eyes.
Minneriya National Park: Spanning over 8,800 hectares, the Minneriya National Park is located alongside the vast, renovated Minneriya Rainwater Reservoir.
Nuwara Eliya: Misty steep roads, twisting through lush green blankets of tea bushes in a cool climate, remind visitors that they are within the range of this renowned British colonial retreat.
Day 1: ARRIVAL COLOMBO – NEGOMBO (8 km – 30 min)
On arrival in Sri Lanka, you will be met and assisted by a representative, who will direct you to your very own chauffeur who will be guiding you throughout the tour. If you have spare time, your chauffeur-guide will introduce you to some of Negombo’s curious sites (duration 2hrs approx.) such as the Dutch churches or laze on the golden sands. Negombo was an important port during the colonial periods. In the late 17th century, the Dutch built a network of canals, over 100km in length that was used to transport cinnamon and other spices from inland plantations to the coast.
Overnight in Negombo.
Day 2: NEGOMBO – SIGIRIYA (145km – 3hrs)
After breakfast, proceed to Sigiriya. On arrival, check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.
Overnight in Sigiriya, Dambulla or Kandalama, depending on the hotel category selected.
Day 3: SIGIRIYA – SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS – MINNERIYA N. PARK – SIGIRIYA (40km – 1hr)
After breakfast at your hotel, you will proceed to visit Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country's economic and cultural uplifting. On completion enjoy an afternoon safari at Minneriya National Park. As a part of the corridor, which joins Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa parks, Minneriya offers an amazing sightseeing experience where one may see herds of elephants throughout the year. In October, you will witness the famous gathering of the wild elephants which is the largest known meeting place of wild elephants in the world. The park is also home to about 160 species of birds, 9 amphibians, 25 reptile species, 26 fish species and more than 78 butterfly species. On completion, return to the hotel.
Overnight in Sigiriya or Kandalama, depending on the hotel category selected.
Day 4: SIGIRIYA – KANDY (90km – 2hrs)
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Kandy for a city tour (duration 2hrs approx.) Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. A stroll across this small lakeside town will feature the Kandy City Centre, bundled with the latest and world-class brands, a bazaar, an arts & crafts centre, as well as a gem museum & lapidary. Drive towards Victoria Golf Course, undoubtedly one of the best golf courses in the world for a sweep blended with class and style. Or walk in colour as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Fine tube your evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music & drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka. On completion check into the hotel at Kandy.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 5: KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA – KANDY (160km – 5hrs)
After breakfast, proceed to Nuwara Eliya and enjoy a city tour. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world. A hike through the green grass and redbrick walls should present breathtaking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet. Drive through green valleys of the hill country pierced by endless waterfalls & dotted by tea puckers draped in bright-coloured saris. On completion, proceed to the hotel.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 6: KANDY – COLOMBO (120km – 3hrs)
After Breakfast, proceed to Colombo for a city tour by Tuk Tuk. Colombo is the trade capital of Sri Lanka and is a city that has undergone rapid changes. While most old buildings have been replaced by new apartments and office buildings, some parts of the city yet retain their old charm. The 100-year-old clock tower built by the British and some colonial buildings remain examples. Independence Square, Nelum Pokuna, Pettah Bazaar and BMICH are some of the main highlights of the city. Colombo also provides ample entertainment in terms of an active nightlife as well as a shopping experience you would never forget. On completion, proceed to the hotel.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 7: DEPARTURE COLOMBO (15km – 45min)
After one last breakfast at your hotel, bid farewell to Sri Lanka as you hop onto a comfortable transfer to Colombo Airport, where you will catch your flight to your following destination. We hope the memories of this trip will stay with you for a lifetime – have a safe journey!
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay. The validity of the passport must be six months from the date of departure. Please note that all clients will need to check the website and obtain a visa prior to arrival in Sri Lanka excluding citizens of Singapore and Maldives. The government has reported that all applications will be processed within 48 hours and payment can be made online by credit card. Details are available on the portal: www.eta.gov.lk.
