Classic Sri Lanka

Tour Summary

  • 15 Days

Inclusions

Accommodation

  • 11 Nights in 4-5 Star Hotels

Transport

  • Transfers in comfortable airconditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide

Activities

  • Meet & greet on arrival at the airport
  • Sightseeing, activities & entrance as mentioned in the itinerary

Extras

  • Get a personalised photobook of your holiday at the end of your trip 

Itinerary

Day 1

Transfer from Airport to Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranayake International Airport and be met at the airport by our representative, who will transfer you to the Hotel in Negombo (standard check-in time 1400hrs). Enjoy the evening at the hotel.

Situated close to the Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo is a coastal city and fishing port in Sri Lanka’s Western Province. It’s known for its beautiful beaches and lagoon, offering a range of water sports and other activities. Negombo is also famous for its seafood. Try the fresh and delicious seafood dishes at one of its many restaurants. The city has a rich colonial history, and visitors can explore the Dutch Fort and other historical sites. Negombo is an ideal destination for those looking for a relaxing beach vacation or a convenient stopover before exploring the rest of Sri Lanka.

Dinner & Overnight at Negombo Hotel.

Day 2

Transfer from Negombo to Anuradhapura

In the morning, visit the bustling coastal Negombo Fish Market, famous for its fresh seafood, especially a wide variety of fish and prawns caught locally. Every morning, fishermen from the surrounding villages bring their catches to sell. Witness the lively atmosphere, the bargaining between buyers and sellers, and even the cleaning and preparation of fish for cooking. It’s a must-visit destination for those who love seafood and experiencing the local culture.

Afterwards, check out for the drive to Anuradhapura (Distance 200 km – Duration 4hrs). At Anuradhapura, check in to the Hotel.

Anuradhapura is an ancient city in the central north of Sri Lanka, known for its rich cultural and historical significance. It was the first capital of Sri Lanka and is considered one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world. The city is home to several well-preserved ancient structures, including massive stupas, ancient temples, and royal palaces. Visit Sri Maha Bodhiya, the oldest recorded tree in the world, and the Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, a massive dome-shaped monument that is considered one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines in Sri Lanka. Visitors can also explore the Jetavanarama Stupa, Abhayagiri Monastery, and Isurumuniya rock temple.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Anuradhapura.

Day 03

Sightseeing in Anuradhapura

Embark on a serene morning journey of Anuradhapura’s essential wonders. Discover the ancient city's rich history, marvel at the timeless architecture, and soak up the cultural tapestry that makes this destination extra special, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Anuradhapura

Day 04

Transfer from Anuradhapura to Jaffna

Check out after breakfast and proceed to Jaffna (Distance 200 km – Duration 4hrs). Check in upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

Jaffna is on Sri Lanka’s north coast. It’s known for its rich cultural heritage, traditional Tamil cuisine, and historic landmarks. Jaffna was once the capital of the Tamil Kingdom and has a long and fascinating history that visitors can explore. The city is home to several ancient Hindu temples, including the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a significant pilgrimage site for Tamil Hindus. Visitors can also explore the Jaffna Fort, a historic fort from the colonial era, and the Jaffna Library, once one of the largest libraries in Asia before it was destroyed in a fire. Jaffna is also known for its delicious cuisine. Be sure to try the crab curry, prawn vadai, and Jaffna-style dosai.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Jaffna.

Day 05

Sightseeing in Jaffna

Learn more about Jaffna’s vibrant cultural tapestry on today’s guided Jaffna City Tour, which includes the majestic Nallur Kovil. Immerse yourself in the city’s iconic landmarks, rich history and architectural beauty. Discover the spiritual essence of Nallur Kovil, a revered Hindu temple known for its intricate design and religious significance. This journey is a delightful blend of unforgettable history, culture, and spirituality.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Jaffna.

Day 06

Transfer from Jaffna to Trincomalee

Check out after breakfast and head to Trincomalee (Distance 250 km – Duration 4hrs 15min). Check in upon arrival and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure.

The coastal north-east city of Trincomalee is known for its beautiful beaches, pristine waters, and historic landmarks. The city has a rich cultural and religious heritage, with several ancient Hindu temples and Buddhist shrines, including the Koneswaran Temple, one of the most sacred Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. Trincomalee is also home to the world-famous Pigeon Island National Park, which offers excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Fort Fredrick, a historic colonial fort, and the hot springs of Kanniyai.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Trincomalee.

Day 07

Trinco City

Trinco City and Kinnia Water Springs Tour. Today, explore the enchanting wonders of Trinco City on a captivating tour that includes stopping at breathtaking Kinnia Water Springs, where crystal-clear waters flow amid stunning scenic surroundings, creating a tranquil oasis. Discover the perfect blend of cultural exploration and Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Trincomalee.

Day 08

Transfer to Sigiriya (via Polonnaruwa)

Check out after breakfast and proceed to Sigiriya (Distance 250 km – Duration 4hrs 15min).

En route visit Polonnaruwa Ancient Site, a remarkable UNESCO World Heritage Site in the North Central Province. From the 11th to the 13th century, Polonnaruwa was the medieval capital. The site boasts well-preserved royal palaces, temples, and other significant structures that showcase that era's architectural brilliance and artistic mastery. Exploring Polonnaruwa allows visitors to delve into the country's rich history and witness the grandeur of an ancient civilisation.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Sigiriya.

Day 9

Sightseeing in Sigiriya

After breakfast, climb Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress in the central Matale District. Also known as the ‘Lion Rock’, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Dating back to the 5th century, the fortress was built by King Kashyapa, who wanted to create a grand palace atop the towering rock. The sheer audacity of constructing a palace at such a height is awe-inspiring. The rock rises approximately 200 metres above the surrounding landscape, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the countryside.

In the afternoon, join a Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park, finishing the day with a refreshing gin & tonic and marvelling at nature’s wonders.

Minneriya National Park is a stunning wildlife reserve that spans over 8,800 hectares and is home to various animals, including elephants, leopards, deer, monkeys, and over 160 species of birds. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty as you venture through the park's diverse landscapes and encounter a myriad of wildlife species.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Sigiriya.

Day 10

Transfer to Kandy

Check out after breakfast and head to Kandy (Distance 115 km – Duration 2hrs 30 min).

En route, visit Dambulla Cave Temple & Spice Garden.

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a remarkable Buddhist religious site and one of the country's most renowned and well-preserved cave temple complexes. The temple consists of a series of five caves that have been transformed into stunning rock-cut sanctuaries adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues. They house over 150 statues of Buddha, including a 14-metre-long reclining Buddha statue, which is over 2,000 years old, as well as numerous ancient frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist mythology. Dating back to the 1st century BC, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the rich Buddhist heritage and artistic achievements of ancient Sri Lanka. Visitors can explore their interiors and breathtaking vistas of the surrounding countryside.

Dinner & Overnight at Kandy Hotel.

Day 11

Sightseeing in Kandy

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend the morning at your leisure.

Visit the Temple of the Tooth in the evening, followed by a night walk around Kandy.

The Temple of the Tooth was built in the 15th century and is famous for enshrining the tooth relic of Sakyamuni, a national treasure of Sri Lanka. The monastery, with a hall and upper and lower floors, is surrounded by a moat, and is guarded by corner towers, reflecting the typical style of Sinhalese national architecture. There is also a World Buddhism Museum in the temple, which shows the spread and development of Buddhism.

The guided Kandy Night Walk is especially enchanting after sunset. Led by your knowledgeable guide, it blends cultural exploration and relaxation while you meander through illuminated streets, discovering vibrant street life, local handicrafts, souvenirs, and mouthwatering cuisine. Unwind at the Royal Bar, reflecting on the night walk while enjoying a refreshing beverage.

Dinner and overnight at Kandy Hotel.

Day 12

Transfer to Nuwara Eliya by Train

Check out after breakfast and proceed to the Kandy train station for your trip to Nuwara Eliya by train (Distance 95 km – Duration 3hrs).

The train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya is a breathtakingly scenic experience through the heart of Sri Lanka. It passes emerald tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming hillside villages. The relaxed, slow-paced train ride crosses the famous Nine Arch Bridge and allows you to soak up the picturesque landscapes in comfort.

Afterwards, stroll through a tea village and experience South Indian-style food prepared by a Tamil family, followed by a tea factory tour and tea tasting.

Nuwara Eliya is a city in the Central Province hill country. Its name means ‘city on the plain (table land)’ or ‘city of light’. The city is the administrative capital of Nuwara Eliya District. At an altitude of 1,868 m, it has a temperate climate and picturesque surroundings and is one of the most important locations for tea production in Sri Lanka. The city is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka.

Dinner & Overnight at Hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 13

Transfer to Ella

Check out after breakfast and head to Ella (Distance 80 km – Duration 1hr 45min).

En route, stop at Little Adam’s Peak & Ravana Falls.

Ella is a popular hiking spot known for its stunning panoramic views, lush valleys and tea plantations. Despite its name, the hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak is relatively easy and suitable for all fitness levels, making it a favoured destination for travellers seeking breathtaking vistas without an arduous trek. Watching the sunrise or sunset from the top of the Peak is a memorable experience, attracting visitors from far and wide.

Gushing Ravana Waterfall is breathtaking as it cascades over massive boulders. Named after the legendary character Ravana from the ancient Indian epic Ramayana, the waterfall is nestled amongst a tropical rainforest environment, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.

Dinner & Overnight at Ella Hotel.

Day 14

Transfer from Ella to Colombo

Check out after breakfast for our drive to Colombo (Distance 320 km – Duration 5hrs).

En route, commence a sightseeing tour of Colombo.

Colombo is the commercial capital and largest city of Sri Lanka on the island's west coast. The city has a rich history and a vibrant culture, with a mix of modern buildings and colonial-era architecture. Visitors to Colombo can explore the bustling streets, markets, and temples and enjoy the city's parks and waterfront areas. The city's top attractions include the National Museum of Colombo, the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, and the Vihara Mahadevi Park. Colombo is also known for its delicious food, with a wide variety of local and international cuisine in its restaurants and street food stalls. Colombo is a fascinating and vibrant city that offers visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and modernity.

Check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Dinner & Overnight at your Colombo Hotel.

Day 15

Departure transfer

Proceed to the airport in time to connect with your departure flight (Distance 50 km – Duration 1hr)

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