Sri Lanka 8-Day Tour

Embark on an 8-day journey through the highlights of Sri Lanka, where you will explore historical towns with European influences, scenic landscapes, lush tea plantations, ancient ruins, and the sacred Buddha’s tooth. This adventure offers a deep dive into the rich culture of Sri Lanka!

Tour Overview

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Negombo

Your tour begins with a warm welcome at the Colombo airport, the bustling heart of Sri Lanka. From there, you will travel 12 kilometers (7.4 miles) north to Negombo, a charming fishing village. Enjoy dinner and a restful overnight stay.

Day 2: Negombo – Dambulla – Habarana

After a hearty breakfast at the hotel in Negombo, we set out toward the Dambulla Cave Temple.

Arriving at this UNESCO World Heritage Site, we will marvel at the extensive cave system located 150 meters (492 feet) above sea level, which served as a refuge for King Walagama during his 14-year exile. Prepare to be captivated by the breathtaking interior!

In the evening, we will reach Habarana, where we will enjoy dinner and settle in for the night.

Day 3: Habarana – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya – Return to Habarana

Following breakfast, we will depart Habarana for Polonnaruwa. As we stroll through its ancient ponds and admire the fortified complex of Parakrama Samudra, we will explore the ruins of Sri Lanka's second capital from the 11th and 12th centuries, encapsulating the medieval grandeur of the nation!

Our next highlight is Sigiriya, where we will ascend the iconic Lion's Rock. Be sure not to miss the enchanting frescoes of the Golden Maidens, followed by a visit to the Mirror Wall and the Royal Gardens, regarded as one of Asia’s earliest landscape gardens.

We will return to Habarana for dinner and a well-deserved rest.

Day 4: Habarana – Matale – Kandy

After breakfast, we bid farewell to Habarana and travel to Matale. Here, we will immerse ourselves in the local tradition of spice cultivation, enjoying a walk through the spice garden where we will gain insights into the various herbs and spices used in Sri Lankan cuisine.

Next, we will visit Kandy, a city closely associated with the Buddha. At the historic Temple of the Tooth, the octagonal pavilion houses a revered relic. Experience the rich sounds of Kandyan trumpets and drums as we participate in a moment of spiritual reflection, offering a glimpse into Sri Lankan culture.

In the afternoon, we will reach our accommodation in Kandy, enjoy dinner, and retire for the night.

Day 5: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, we will embark on a scenic trip to Nuwara Eliya, where you can stroll through the breathtaking tea plantations majestically set against mountainous backdrops at an altitude of 1,900 meters (6,233 feet).

The afternoon will be free for you to explore the town center or visit a local tea factory—renowned for producing some of the world’s finest tea!

Finally, you will check into your hotel in Nuwara Eliya for dinner and relaxation.

Day 6: Nuwara Eliya – Yala

Breakfast will be served at the hotel, after which we will depart for Yala National Park. Indulge in a thrilling safari where you will see an array of wildlife including 100 species of birds, deer herds, and even leopards. Journeying through dense jungle, brackish lagoons, and rocky terrain, you might also discover quaint bungalows nestled within nature.

After an unforgettable day, we will return to our lodge in Yala for dinner and rest.

Day 7: Yala – Galle – Kalutara

Following an invigorating breakfast in Yala, we will head toward Galle. Here, we will uncover the impressive fortress that spans 63 hectares (155 acres) while exploring the rich tapestry of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences present in the old town.

Eventually, we will arrive in Kalutara for dinner and our final night’s accommodation.

Day 8: Kalutara – Departure from Colombo Airport

After breakfast at the hotel in Kalutara, we will make our way back to Colombo for your departure from the airport, marking the conclusion of our shared adventure.

Important Considerations

Please note that during September or October, Yala National Park is closed. Consequently, on day 7, we will visit Lunugamvehera National Park, located near Yala.

Accommodation Details

This tour includes 7 nights of accommodations with breakfast at various hotels, categorized as follows: Category A for 4-star hotels and Category B for 3-star hotels:

• Negombo (1 night): Mt. Lavinia Hotel or a similar option available in both categories.
• Habarana (2 nights): category A (Occidental Paradise, Sigiriya Village or similar) and category B (Sungreen Resorts & Spa, Tropical Life Resorts & Spa or similar).
• Kandy (1 night): category A (Cinnamon Citadel, Earl's Regent or similar) and category B (Swiss Residency, Oak Ray Regency or similar).
• Nuwara Eliya (1 night): category A (Araliya Red, Lyndon Grove or similar) and category B (Rippon Grand or similar).
• Yala (1 night): category A (EKHO Safari, Chaarya Resorts & Spa or similar) and category B (Elephant Reach, Oakray Wild or similar).
• Kalutara (1 night): category A (Cinnamon Bey, Tangerine Beach Hotel or similar) and category B (The Palms, Earl's Reef or similar).

Pricing Information

A minimum of two participants is required for this tour. If you register alone and no other participants join for the same dates, you will have two options: either pay an additional fee for a private tour or select an alternative date at no extra charge.

For booking arrangements involving odd-numbered groups, where both double and single rooms are required (incurring a supplementary charge), the reservations must be submitted in two parts. Initially, book the double occupancy, followed by the single. Be sure to note in the comments section that all travelers are traveling together.

Furthermore, an additional night's accommodation must be purchased for those arriving early.

Flight Arrangements

It’s crucial to arrive at the airport prior to 11:30 am on the first day of the tour. Late arrivals will incur an additional transfer fee of 65 USD per person.