Planned by Yasara,
local expert for Sri Lanka
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Starting at USD 1345 per adult / 8 days
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Experience the best of Sri Lanka, from ancient wonders like Sigiriya and Dambulla to thrilling safaris in Yala and Minneriya. Enjoy scenic train rides, cultural shows, village safaris, stilt fishing, and a serene Madu River cruise before exploring vibrant Colombo.

This itinerary is just a starting point as all services are 100% customizable to suit your travel wants and needs. Looking for different hotels, other experiences or an alternative route? Get in touch with Yasara today to receive your personalized quote. Just enter your details and receive a quote based on your preferences.

Overview

Negombo 1 night
Dambulla 2 nights
Kandy 1 night
Nuwara Eliya 1 night
Yala 1 night
Bentota 1 night

Detailed Itinerary

DAY 1-2

Negombo

DAY 1

Leisure at the Hotel

After arriving at the airport, proceed to Negombo, a charming coastal town known for its serene beaches and lively atmosphere. Check in and unwind at the hotel, allowing yourself to relax and recover from your journey. Enjoy the tranquil surroundings, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or simply soak in the tropical ambiance as you prepare for the exciting adventures ahead in Sri Lanka.

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Accommodation: Goldi Sands Hotel

DAY 2-4

Dambulla

DAY 2

Dambulla Cave Temple

Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Featuring impressive mural paintings and 157 statues, including a massive Buddha monument, it's a sacred pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of the place dates back to the first century BCE, when King Valagambahu took refuge here. Today, it's worth visiting not only for the cave temple but also for the beautiful view over the countryside.

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Hiriwadunna Village Safari

Hiriwaduna Village Safari offers an immersive cultural experience in the rural heartland of Sri Lanka. Located near Sigiriya, this safari allows visitors to witness the traditional way of life in a village setting. Visitors can explore paddy fields, lush greenery, and serene lakes while interacting with friendly locals. The safari includes activities such as bullock cart rides, boat rides, and traditional cooking demonstrations. It provides a unique opportunity to learn about local customs, traditions, and farming practices. Hiriwaduna Village Safari is a delightful journey that showcases the authentic rural lifestyle of Sri Lanka.

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Accommodation: Amaya Lake Hotel

DAY 3

Polonnaruwa City Tour

Engage in a city sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals and part of the famous Cultural Triangle. See the impressive and intricately designed Gal Vihara Temple Complex, which features three colossal granite Buddha statues. Next, explore Parakrama Samudra, a 2,500-hectare reservoir constructed under King Parakramabahu’s reign in the 12th century. Overall, the city is divided into a new and old town, both of which can be easily explored on foot

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Minneriya National Park Safari

Minneriya National Park, a vast preserve of forest and grasslands. Locate between Habarana & Polonnaruwa, the park is home to elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and langur monkeys. At its heart is the extraordinary Minneriya Tank reservoir. Created by the Anuradhapura civilization over 1800 years ago, its peaceful shores are the perfect place to observe herds of elephants and flocks of storks.

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Accommodation: Amaya Lake Hotel

DAY 4-5

Kandy

Kandy Travel guide

DAY 4

Sigiriya Rock fortress

the Sigiriya Rock fortress. The rocky monolith rises high out of the lush jungle and is home to the remains of an ancient fortress built in the late 5th century CE. The name translates to “Lion Rock,” a reference to the way visitors traditionally began their final ascent to the top of the monument, passing through the open jaws and throat of a lion. Today, the only remains of this lion figure today are the gigantic paws sculpted into the side of the rock.

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Temple of the tooth

The Temple of the Tooth, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a revered Buddhist temple located in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. The temple houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred pilgrimage sites for Buddhists around the world. The temple's architecture is a mix of ancient and modern styles, with intricate carvings, paintings, and sculptures depicting Buddhist art and culture. Visitors can witness the temple's daily rituals, including the lighting of oil lamps and the chanting of religious hymns. The Temple of the Tooth is a must-visit destination for those seeking to experience the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Sri Lanka.

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Cultural Show

Cultural Show is a vibrant and colorful display of traditional Sri Lankan dance and music that takes place in the city of Kandy. The show features talented dancers and musicians performing various cultural art forms, including fire-dancing, drumming, and acrobatics. The performances are a fusion of different Sri Lankan cultures, representing the rich heritage of the island. Visitors can experience the vibrant energy of the show while learning about the traditions and customs of Sri Lanka. The Kandy Cultural Show is a must-see attraction for those interested in the cultural arts and is an excellent way to experience the rich heritage of Sri Lanka.

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Accommodation: Amaya Hills

DAY 5-6

Nuwara Eliya

DAY 5

Scenic Train Ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya

One of the world's most gorgeous rail journeys may be found in the heart of Sri Lanka. The 3-hour train ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya passes through lush tea estates, and unending mountain views. Remarkably, it's also one of the best travel experiences in Sri Lanka. The colonial British built the railway in 1864 to transport tea from the hills to the capital city, but it has since become a very affordable way to explore the beautiful scenery. The train excursion is now a must-do on any trip to Sri Lanka.

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Tea Plantation & Tea Factory

NuwaraEliya is famous for its high-quality tea, which is grown in the surroundinghills and is an integral part of the city's culture and economy. The teaplantations in Nuwara Eliya are situated at an altitude of over 6,000 feet andbenefit from the cool climate and fertile soil, resulting in tea with adistinct flavor and aroma. Visitors can take tours of the tea factories andplantations to learn about the tea-making process, from picking the leaves tothe final product. The tours typically include tea-tasting sessions, allowingvisitors to sample the various types of tea produced in the region. The teaproduction in Nuwara Eliya is not only a significant industry but also a way oflife, with many families involved in the cultivation and production of tea forgenerations

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Accommodation: Yara Nuwara Eliya Hotel

DAY 6-7

Yala

DAY 6

Yala National Park Safari

Jeep Safari at Yala is considered to be the world’s highest leopard-density National Park. Located in the southeast region of the country, Yala is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. It is home to a wide variety of wildlife that you’ll have the chance to see on a Jeep safari. Leopards are the stars here, but the park is also home to the large herds of elephants, spotted deer, sambar, wild boar, wild buffaloes, sloth bear, jackal, and mongoose. The birds are also fantastic, and many species such as Rosy Starlings, Paradise Flycatchers, Crested Hawk Eagles, Blue-tailed Bee-Eaters, and Common Loras inhabit the area.

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Accommodation: EKHO Safari

DAY 7-8

Bentota

DAY 7

Visit Stilt Fisherman

Stilt fishing is a traditional method of fishing used by the people living in the southern coastal areas of Sri Lanka. The practice involves fishermen sitting on a vertical pole, locally known as a "Petta, "which is planted into the shallow waters of the sea. They balance themselves on the Petta, holding a fishing rod with one hand and using the other hand to catch the fish. This unique fishing technique has become a popular attraction for tourists visiting Sri Lanka, who are interested in learning about the traditional way of life of the Sri Lankan coastal communities. Stilt fishing is also a picturesque scene and offers an opportunity for photography

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Galle Fort & City Tour

Galle, a UNESCO-listed heritage city, is a stunning blend of colonial charm and coastal beauty. The iconic Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, boasts cobbled streets, historic buildings, and breathtaking ocean views. Within the fort’s walls, you’ll find quaint cafés, boutique shops, museums, and centuries-old churches, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich colonial past. Beyond the fort, Galle City is a lively mix of culture, bustling markets, and golden beaches, making it a must-visit destination for history lovers and travelers alike.

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Accommodation: EKHO Surf Hotel

DAY 8

Madhu River Boat Safari

Balapitiya Madu River Boat Safari is a scenic boat tour that takes visitors through the tranquil waters of the Madu River, located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. The boat safari offers a unique opportunity to explore the lush mangrove forests, and observe the diverse wildlife, such as crocodiles, monkeys, and various bird species that call this region home. Visitors can also visit the small islands located within the Madu River, where they can explore the temples, cinnamon plantations, and traditional handicraft workshops. The Balapitiya Madu River Boat Safari is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and those looking to experience the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

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Colombo City Tour & Shopping

Colombo, drive through the city taking you to the busy commercial areas as well as the tree lined residential, Cinnamon Gardens, Visit Fort, the former British administrative Centre and military garrison, Lotus Tower, Sea Street – the Goldsmiths quarters in the heart of Pettah, the Bazaar area, where is also a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, and the Dutch Church of Wolfe dhal dating back to 1749. Colombo Shopping Tour: Take a fascinating journey in the capital of the isle paradise. This commercial and administrative hub of the country proves to be a blend of cultural texture, religions, and socioeconomic classes. Visit bargain markets, Independence Square, Odel Shopping Mall, Colombo City Center, One Galle Face, Shopping at Laksala state owned Handicraft’s emporium.

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End in Colombo

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