
Are you dreaming of a vacation filled with breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and unforgettable wildlife experiences? Highlights of Sri Lanka Tour offers all this and more. This beautiful island nation, located in the Indian Ocean, is renowned for its diverse attractions, from pristine beaches to lush rain-forests and ancient citadels. In this guide, we’ll highlight why Sri Lanka should be on your bucket list, show you how to travel around the country in a loop, exploring must-visit destinations and top activities, and conclude with essential tips on planning your Sri Lanka tour.
Why Choose our Sri Lanka Tour?
Sri Lanka, a land roughly the size of Tasmania, is often called the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean.” Its unique combination of natural beauty (recognized as one of the world’s 34 biodiversity hotspots), along with history spanning over 2,000 years and a vibrant, diverse culture, make it an ideal destination for travelers seeking connection with nature, relaxation, or cultural enrichment. Here’s why a Sri Lanka tour should be on your bucket list:
Diversity of Nature

Wildlife
Discover Sri Lanka’s rich wildlife in dry zone national parks like Minneriya, Kaudulla or Yala. Go on a safari to spot elephants, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, leopards, and over 500 species of birds, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts and bird watchers alike.
Lush Mountains
Explore the central highlands of Sri Lanka recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, featuring stunning waterfalls, dense forests, mist-covered valleys, and tea plantations. Taking the breathtaking train ride from Kandy to Ella is a perfect way to explore these mountains.


Beaches
Relax on the coconut palm-fringed golden sands of beaches around Galle, such as Unawatuna, Dalawella, Weligama, or Mirissa. Swim in the warm waters and spot gentle sea turtles, or unwind and watch golden sunsets over the horizon. Each beach offers its unique charm, whether it’s the serene waves at Dalawella, surfing at Weligama, or lively beach vibes in Mirissa.
Rich History and Heritage
Ancient Cities
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya, over 1,500 years old, and Polonnaruwa, dating back over 900 years. Marvel at the ancient statues, stupas, and temples that reflect Sri Lanka’s rich history and architectural brilliance.


Kandy
Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya, over 1,500 years old, and Polonnaruwa, dating back over 900 years. Marvel at the ancient statues, stupas, and temples that reflect Sri Lanka’s rich history and architectural brilliance.
Galle
Discover the historic coastal city of Galle, where the iconic Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century, stands as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Wander through its charming streets, explore colonial architecture, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy vibrant local markets along with stunning ocean views.

Culture

Culinary Delights
Savor Sri Lankan cuisine, featuring delicious dishes like hoppers, kottu roti, and spicy curries. With its tropical climate and being surrounded by the ocean, Sri Lanka is blessed with a variety of vegetables, fruits, and seafood. Take part in a cooking demonstration to learn traditional techniques and secrets of these flavorful dishes.
Festivals
Time your visit to coincide with one of Sri Lanka’s colorful festivals, such as the Esala Perahera in Kandy or the Galle Literary Festival.

Hospitality

Friendly Locals
Sri Lankans are known for their warmth and friendliness. Visitors often find locals eager to share stories, help with directions, and offer insights into the rich culture and history of their homeland. Hospitality is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture—a tradition that naturally extends into the country’s vibrant hospitality industry, where looking after guests is a point of pride.
Colonial Hotels & Plantation Bungalows
Colonial Hotels and Plantation Bungalows: Immerse yourself in history with a stay at a colonial-era hotel or plantation bungalow, once home to British tea planters or prominent Sri Lankan families. These beautifully preserved estates offer vintage architecture, serene gardens, and experiences like high tea on scenic verandas, evoking the elegance of Sri Lanka’s heritage-rich highlands.


5 star Resorts
Experience ultimate luxury in Sri Lanka’s five-star resorts, where thoughtful architecture blends seamlessly into lush landscapes, from oceanfront suites and infinity pools to tranquil spa sanctuaries. These resorts offer lavish buffets with local and international flavors, Ayurvedic wellness, and curated excursions, ensuring an indulgent and immersive stay amidst Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
Ayurvedic Wellness and Spa Treatments
Many hotels and resorts offer traditional Ayurvedic treatments, which are known for their holistic approach to health and well-being. Unwind with herbal massages and treatments that have been perfected over centuries.

Sample Itinerary for Highlights of Sri Lanka Tour?

Day 1-2: Arrival in Negombo
Arrive in Negombo and unwind at a beachfront hotel conveniently located near the airport, perfect for recovering from your long flight. Relax by the warm Indian Ocean and take a refreshing dip in the pool. The next day, visit the vibrant Negombo fish market, where you can choose your fresh catch and join the hotel chef for a hands-on BBQ experience. In the evening, if you’re up for it, explore the Muthurajawela Wetlands by boat, where you’ll see various birds, monkeys, crocodiles, and water monitors thriving alongside this bustling city.
Day 3-4: Cultural Triangle
After breakfast, drive to Habarana (3.5 hrs, 155 km) and check into Habarana Lodge by Cinnamon. Enjoy the warm tropical climate and cool retreat among the trees. In the evening, explore Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Marvel at ancient rock paintings and the lion paw entrance as you ascend for stunning panoramic views.
On Day 4, after an early breakfast, visit Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, known for its archaeological treasures, including the Royal Palace and Gal Vihara. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a local village. In the afternoon, embark on a safari in Minneriya National Park, a key habitat for elephants, where you can witness their remarkable presence in their natural environment.
Day 5-6: Kandy and Hill Country
After breakfast, depart for Kandy, stopping at the Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient murals and Buddha statues dating back to the 1st century BC. Continue your journey through Matale, where you’ll witness the transition from dry to wet climate, with lush vegetation and terraced paddy fields.
Upon arriving in Kandy, the hill capital, enjoy a cultural performance featuring traditional drumming and dancing, followed by a scenic poolside dinner at Mahaweli Reach Hotel.
On Day 6, visit the Temple of the Tooth, a sacred relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth within the royal palace complex. Explore Kandy’s old town, lake, and markets with your chauffeur guide, then enjoy lunch at the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 plant species. Spend the evening relaxing at the hotel.
Day 7-9: Nuwara Eliya, Ella and Yala
On Day 7, depart Kandy and board an 8:55 AM train to Nuwara Eliya, traveling through Sri Lanka’s picturesque tea country. Enjoy the scenic journey as the train winds through lush landscapes and local villages. Upon arrival, check in to the Grand Hotel, relax, and explore the town.
Day 8 begins early for those wishing to witness the sunrise from Single Tree Hill, followed by breakfast at the hotel. Then, travel to Ella to visit attractions such as Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Waterfall, and the Nine Arch Bridge, experiencing the region’s diverse landscapes. Arrive in Yala by the afternoon, where you can relax at Cinnamon Wild Yala or visit the Kataragama Temple in the evening to observe local rituals.
On Day 9, enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel before embarking on an afternoon safari in Yala National Park. Experience the park’s rich biodiversity, including Sri Lankan leopards, elephants, and sloth bears, amid the captivating wilderness of scrub forests and lagoons.
Day 10-11: Southern Coast
On Day 10, after breakfast, drive to Galle, a journey of about three hours. Optionally, stop at Kudawella to witness the impressive blowhole before continuing to your hotel, Jetwing Lighthouse. Spend a relaxing afternoon by the pool, enjoying the coastal atmosphere.
Day 11 offers a leisurely morning, waking up to the soothing sound of the ocean. After breakfast, explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and unique architecture, originally built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch. Enjoy the fortress’s ancient ramparts and lighthouse before spending another relaxing afternoon by the pool. For a tranquil experience, consider a boat safari on the Mahamodara River, where you can observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
Day 12: Departure
It’s your last day in Sri Lanka. After breakfast, we will head to Katunayake International Airport to drop you off for your departure.
Tips for Planning your Sri Lanka Tour?
Best Time to Visit:
The ideal overall time for this tour would be December to March, as this period generally offers the best weather conditions across all the locations on your itinerary. During these months, you can expect:
- Negombo: Warm and pleasant beach weather.
- Habarana: Dry conditions for exploring Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa.
- Kandy: Cooler temperatures, especially in the evenings, making it comfortable for sightseeing.
- Nuwara Eliya: Crisp, cool weather perfect for enjoying tea plantations and the scenic train ride.
- Yala: Optimal conditions for wildlife viewing, with fewer rains.
- Galle: Warm and dry weather ideal for beach relaxation and exploring the fort.
- This timing helps you avoid the monsoon seasons, ensuring a more enjoyable experience throughout the tour.

Travel Requirements:
Australians are eligible to apply online for the e-Visitor visa, which allows for a tourist visa with double entry for up to 30 days at a cost of USD 50 per person (children under 12 are free). The processing time for the Sri Lanka e-Visitor visa (ETA) is typically within 24 hours. However, it’s recommended that applicants apply at least 48 hours before their intended travel date to account for any potential delays. LINK HERE.
How to get there:
The main international airport in Sri Lanka is Bandaranaike International Airport, located in Negombo, about 35 km north of Colombo. Several flights connect major Australian cities to Sri Lanka. Sri Lankan Airlines offers direct flights to Colombo from both Sydney and Melbourne. Common transit hubs for connecting flights include Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, with additional options through Bangkok and Hong Kong.
Sydney:
- Direct Flight | 11 hrs | Sri Lankan Airlines | Departure & Return flights on every Sunday – Tuesday – Friday – Saturday
- Other Flights| 13+ hrs | Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Thai airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qatar Airways
- Value Airlines: AirAsia, Jetstar Airways, Scoot
Melbourne:
- Direct Flight | 11 hrs | Sri Lankan Airlines | Daily Departure & Return flights
- Other Flights | 13+ hrs | Qantas, Singapore Airlines, Malaysian Airlines, Thai airways, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, Qatar Airways
- Value Airlines: AirAsia, Jetstar Airways, Scoot
Brisbane:
- Flights | 14+ hrs | Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines
- Value Airlines: Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Philippines Airlines, China Eastern Airlines
Perth:
- Flights | 11+ hrs | Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines
- Value Airlines: AirAsia, Scoot, Jetstar, Virgin Australia
Adelaide:
- Flights | 13+ hrs | Singapore Airlines, Sri Lankan Airlines, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines
- Value Airlines: Jetstar, Virgin Australia, Philippines Airlines, China Eastern Airlines

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