12 Day Sri Lanka Tour
OVERVIEW
Discover the captivating beauty and heritage of Sri Lanka with our 12-day luxury Sri Lanka tour. Start your journey in Negombo, relaxing at a beachfront resort before diving into local culture with a visit to the vibrant fish market and a custom BBQ experience. Next, head to Habarana to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, followed by an exhilarating safari in Minneriya National Park.
In Kandy, experience the sacred Temple of the Tooth, scenic lake, and Royal Botanical Gardens. Enjoy a picturesque train ride to Nuwara Eliya, the heart of tea country, before marveling at Ella's breathtaking landscapes. Spot wildlife in Yala National Park, then unwind on the southern coast in Galle, where you can explore its historic fort and relax by the ocean.
Designed for your comfort, this Sri Lanka tour offers luxurious 5-star accommodations throughout. From beachfront resorts in Negombo to elegant lodges in Habarana and Nuwara Eliya, and serene retreats in Yala and Galle, each stay guarantees a perfect blend of luxury and relaxation.
The tour includes 11 nights of accommodation, 11 breakfasts, 11 dinners, and 4 lunches, covering all activities, entrance fees, and government charges.
ITINERARY DETAILS
DAY 1 NEGOMBO
Highlight
Arrive in Sri Lanka and meet your local representative.
Transfer to your beach front hotel in Negombo.
You’re probably exhausted after the long flight. That’s why we’ve chosen a beachfront hotel near the airport. You can relax by the warm Indian ocean, surrounded by coconut trees, and take a refreshing dip in the pool. And when the evening comes, simply unwind with a drink, soaking in the tropical atmosphere.
DAY 2 NEGOMBO
Highlights
Wake up to the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. After an early breakfast, take a trip to the renowned Negombo fish market near the fishing harbor, affectionately called ‘Walla’ by the locals. Observe the fishermen as they meticulously spread their nets, hoping for that perfect catch. Just a few steps away, you’ll see fishermen working together to pull their nets ashore.
Choose your own fresh catch for lunch and have it preserved in a cold box, ready for your lunch BBQ. Later, join the hotel Chef and enjoy a hands-on experience as you prepare your own BBQ meal.
This day is designed at a relaxed pace, allowing you to unwind after your flight and rejuvenate for the journey ahead.
DAY 3 NEGOMBO | SIGIRIYA | HABARANA
Highlights
After breakfast, make your way to Habarana. On the journey from Negombo, notice the transition from bustling roads to flat terrain stretching for miles as the climate gradually warms up. Take in the captivating drive through the green paddy fields and observe how the weather becomes warmer as you enter the dry zone.
Check into your hotel.
In Habarana, you’ll experience the warm tropical weather, but nestled among the forest trees, this lodge will offer a shady, cool, and comfortable retreat, ensuring you feel refreshed.
In the evening, begin your exploration of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
” A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the ancient rock paintings and the massive lion paw entrance as you ascend the 200-meter-high rock fortress. Explore the ruins of the 1,500-year-old castle built by King Kasyapa and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. “
DAY 4 HABARANA | POLONNARUWA | MINNERIYA | HABARANA
Highlights
After an early breakfast at the hotel, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.
” The second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, known for its impressive archaeological treasures. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features the well-preserved ruins of the Royal Palace, intricately carved statues at Gal Vihara, and the sacred quadrangle with the Vatadage and Lankatilaka Temple. To fully appreciate the historical and architectural marvels, it’s best to leave early and enjoy the sites in the morning light. “
Enjoy a home cooked lunch in a local village house.
In the afternoon, safari in Minneriya national park. Depending on the season of movements of elephants, safari park would be either at Minneriya / Kaudulla or Eco Park.
” Minneriya Park is a national park in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The park is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population. The park was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in order to protect the watershed of Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area. The tank is historically important for the country as it was built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. ”
DAY 5 HABARANA | DAMBULLA | MATALE | KANDY
Highlights
After breakfast, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temples on your route to Kandy.
” This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a series of stunning cave temples adorned with intricate murals and statues of Buddha, dating back to the 1st century BC. Explore these ancient caves and marvel at the impressive frescoes and sculptures that capture the rich history and religious significance of the area. “
During your journey through Matale, you’ll gradually ascend the hills and notice the transition from dry to wet climate, with denser vegetation. Observing the change from flat to terraced paddy fields. As you near Kandy, expect bustling streets, as it’s recognized as the capital of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The mountains surrounding Kandy are adorned with buildings and houses nestled among lush greenery at the base, while their upper slopes are veiled in mist and boast pine forests and grasslands.
Welcome to Kandy! The hill capital and the venerated grounds of the last royal capital of Sri Lanka.
In the evening, enjoy the cultural performance filled with drumming and dancing.
Return to hotel and participate in a scenic poolside dinner.
DAY 6 KANDY
Highlights
After breakfast, visit the Temple of the Tooth, or Dalada Maligawa.
” A UNESCO World Heritage Site located within the royal palace complex in Kandy. This revered temple houses the sacred relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth, a symbol of Sri Lanka’s deep spiritual heritage. Explore its richly decorated interiors, witness the daily rituals performed by monks, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites. “
Next, your chauffeur guide will lead you through Kandy’s old town, lake, and markets, showing you historic spots and sharing insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Continue to the Royal Botanical Gardens for lunch.
” Located just outside Kandy, this is Sri Lanka’s largest and most impressive botanical garden, originally established in 1821. Covering 147 acres, it showcases over 4,000 species of plants, including towering palm avenues, vibrant orchids, and giant bamboo groves. The garden’s serene pathways and lush landscapes make it an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll amidst Sri Lanka’s rich flora. “
Return to hotel for a relaxing evening.
DAY 7 KANDY | NUWARAELIYA
Highlights
Leave your hotel and head to the Kandy railway station to catch a train at 8.55 am to Nuwara Eliya (seats on availability).
This journey takes you into the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country, where Ceylon Tea is produced. As the train winds through lush greenery, passing through tunnels and along mountainsides, enjoy the scenic beauty of the landscape. It’s also a wonderful way to observe local life up close, with villages and everyday scenes unfolding along the route.
On arrival, check –in for lunch at the hotel.
Relax at the hotel in the evening or go for a evening stroll around town.
DAY 8 NUWARA ELIYA | ELLA | YALA
Highlights
If you opt to leave the hotel around 6.00 am, you will be taken to witness the beautiful sunrise from Single Tree Hill.
“Situated at an altitude of 2,100 meters, this is the 7th highest mountain in Sri Lanka and can be reached with about a one-hour walk. Due to its high altitude, morning temperatures in Nuwara Eliya typically range between 2.5°C and 4.5°C, offering a cool and crisp climate.”
Before early morning departure to visit the Single Tree Hill, a piece of cake, biscuits & tea or coffee would be ready for you.
After the visit, come back to the hotel and enjoy breakfast. Those who didn’t participate in the morning excursion can join the others during breakfast around 8.15 am.
Thereafter, proceed to Ella to visit Little Adams peak, Ravana waterfall and the Nine Arch Bridge.
“Nestled between the upcountry wet zone and low country dry zone, Ella offers diverse landscapes, from lush montane forests to dry evergreen forests. Once home to the indigenous Vedda people and later part of the Kandyan Kingdom, it became a British tea plantation hub and is now a bustling tourist destination with bars and coffee shops.”
Arrive in Yala in the afternoon.
You can spend a relaxing evening by the hotel pool.
Optionally you can visit Kataragama Temple in the evening to observe observe local rituals.
“Renowned for its historical significance, the temple is dedicated to the deity Kataragama Deviyo and has been a major pilgrimage site for centuries. Travelers appreciate its cultural heritage and the opportunity to witness traditional ceremonies in a serene setting.”
DAY 9 YALA
Highlights
Spend a leisurely morning at your hotel.
Afternoon safari at Yala national park.
” Yala, spreading across 1268 sq. km of scrub forests, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, is undoubtedly one of the hottest regions of bio-diversity in the island boasting of an abundance of Sri Lankan Leopard, Elephants and Sloth Bear, often known as Sri Lanka’s Big Three! Flanked by herds of wild boar, spotted deer, jackals, peacock and crocodiles the park has a whole bundle of wilderness on offer. So, be prepared to witness the big-footed, the clawed and the spotted amidst the thick scrub forest as your safari jeep bumps away into the depths of wilderness.”
DAY 10 YALA | GALLE
Highlights
After breakfast proceed to Galle.
On your way to the excitement of beaches, you may optionally stop in Kudawella to witness the blowhole. The best period to visit is from end-April to October.
Spend a relaxing afternoon by the pool.
DAY 11 GALLE
Highlights
Wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a relaxed morning.
After breakfast, embark on a tour of Galle;
“Once Sri Lanka’s chief port and known for its hand-made lace. Explore the Galle Fort, a World Heritage Site covering 90 acres, originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663. Stroll through the fortress, taking in its ancient architecture, ramparts, and the historic lighthouse, for an educational and enjoyable experience.”
Spend a relaxing afternoon by the pool.
Optionally, you can choose to go on a boat safari on the Mahamodara River for bird watching. This serene excursion offers the chance to observe a variety of bird species in their natural habitat while enjoying the tranquil beauty of the river.
DAY 12 GALLE | AIRPORT
It’s your last day in Sri Lanka. After breakfast, we will head to Katunayake International Airport to drop you off for your departure.
Until we meet again.
PRICE & INCULSSION
7th Jan - 30th Apr 2025
$4750 /Person
Price Inclusions
- Negombo Fish market
- Fish BBQ Lunch experience
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Ancient city of Polonnaruwa
- Half day Safari at Minneriya / Kaudulla or Eco national park
- Dambulla Cave temple
- Traditional cultural show in Kandy
- Temple of the Tooth
- Royal Botanical Garden
- Lunch experience at the botanical garden
- Local Train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya
- Single Tree Hill
- Mini Adam’s Peak, Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls
- Temple of Kataragama
- Half day Safari at Yala national park
- Galle Dutch Fort
Price Exclusions
- Negombo Fish market
- Fish BBQ Lunch experience
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Ancient city of Polonnaruwa
- Half day Safari at Minneriya / Kaudulla or Eco national park
- Dambulla Cave temple
- Traditional cultural show in Kandy
- Temple of the Tooth
- Royal Botanical Garden
- Lunch experience at the botanical garden
- Local Train ride from Kandy to Nanuoya
- Single Tree Hill
- Mini Adam’s Peak, Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls
- Temple of Kataragama
- Half day Safari at Yala national park
- Galle Dutch Fort
ITINERARY SUMMARY
DAY | LOCATION | HOTELS |
---|---|---|
DAY 1 | Negombo |
Jetwing Blue – beach hotel |
DAY 2 | Negombo |
Jetwing Blue – beach hotel |
DAY 3 | Habarana |
Habarana Lodge by Cinnamon |
DAY 4 | Habarana |
Habarana Lodge by Cinnamon |
DAY 5 | Kandy |
Earl’s Regency Hotel |
DAY 6 | Kandy |
Earl’s Regency Hotel |
DAY 7 | Nuwara Eliya Train to Nuwara-Eliya – approx. 4 hrs |
The Grand Hotel |
DAY 8 | Yala |
Cinnamon Wild |
DAY 9 | Yala |
Cinnamon Wild |
DAY 10 | Galle |
Jetwing Lighthouse |
DAY 11 | Galle |
Jetwing Lighthouse |
DAY 12 | Airport |
Breakfast |