9 Day Exploration of Sri Lanka
This 9 day tour is a meticulously planned exploration of Sri Lanka's most iconic destinations, offering a seamless blend of historical landmarks, natural beauty, wildlife encounters, and cultural richness. Each day takes you deeper into the essence of this island nation, from ancient cities to serene beaches, lush tea estates, and thrilling safaris. Whether you’re a first time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this tour offers a comprehensive experience, balancing adventure with comfort.
Upon landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your chauffeur guide. A short transfer brings you to Negombo, a coastal town known for its sandy beaches and vibrant culture.
Relaxation and ExplorationSpend the day at your leisure, recovering from your journey. Explore the bustling Negombo Fish Market, take a stroll along the beach, or enjoy the local seafood cuisine at a beachside restaurant. For those of you interested in history, a visit to St. Mary’s Church, a grand colonial era cathedral, might offer an insight into the town’s Christian heritage.After an early breakfast, set off for Dambulla, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
En route, you’ll visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a heartwarming stop where you can observe elephants being fed and bathed. This stop offers an opportunity to learn about the conservation efforts aimed at protecting Sri Lanka’s majestic elephants.
Arrival in Dambulla
Arrive in Dambulla and check into your hotel. Spend the evening unwinding or exploring the local area, which is surrounded by lush forests and ancient temples.
Dive into Sri Lanka’s rich history with visits to two UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Begin your day with an ascent of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often referred to as the "Eighth Wonder of the World." This 5th century marvel is a testament to ancient engineering and artistry. Highlights include the mirrored walls, frescoes of celestial maidens, and breathtaking views from the summit.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a well preserved relic of Sri Lanka's medieval capital. Cycling through its ruins, you’ll discover intricately carved statues, royal palaces, and serene stupas. Notable landmarks include the Gal Vihara, a group of rock cut Buddha statues considered masterpieces of ancient art.
After breakfast, head south to Kandy, stopping at several iconic sites along the way.
Dambulla Cave Temple
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a vast complex of rock cut shrines adorned with intricate murals and over 150 Buddha statues. This site offers a serene and spiritual experience amidst its ancient artistry.
Spice Garden
En route to Kandy, stop at a spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka's famous spices, such as cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg. Engage in a sensory experience as you discover their culinary and medicinal uses.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Once in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic during the evening pooja ceremony. Witness the devotion of worshippers and marvel at the ornate architecture that houses this sacred relic.
After a morning stroll through Kandy's vibrant streets, embark on a journey to the highlands of Nuwara Eliya.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Stop at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to an extensive collection of exotic plants and orchids. This serene setting offers a delightful escape from the city.
Tea Plantations
Continue to Nuwara Eliya, where you’ll visit a tea plantation and factory. Learn about the intricate process of tea production and savor a freshly brewed cup of world renowned Ceylon tea.
Arrival in Nuwara Eliya
Explore the quaint town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its colonial charm and cool climate. Highlights include Lake Gregory and the beautifully landscaped Victoria Park.
Descend from the hills to the southern plains as you journey to Yala National Park.
Ravana Falls
Stop at Ravana Falls, a picturesque waterfall with mythological significance linked to the Ramayana epic.
Yala Safari
In the afternoon, embark on a jeep safari in Yala National Park. Known for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and a variety of bird species. This thrilling experience brings you up close to Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife.
Head to the southern coast, stopping at cultural and historical landmarks along the way.
Galle Fort
Visit the UNESCO listed Galle Fort, a historic fortress built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch. Stroll through its cobblestone streets, admire colonial architecture, and enjoy stunning views of the Indian Ocean.
Arrival in Bentota
Check into a beachside resort in Bentota. Spend the evening relaxing on the golden sands or enjoying a sunset walk by the sea.
Take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a day of leisure.
Optional Activities
Engage in watersports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, or snorkeling. Alternatively, visit a nearby turtle hatchery, where you can learn about conservation efforts to protect sea turtles.
Conclude your journey with a leisurely morning in Bentota before heading to the airport. Along the way, reflect on the memories made during your exploration of Sri Lanka’s landscapes, culture, and history.
Polonnaruwa is located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province. As Sri Lanka's second capital, Polonnaruwa holds a special place in the hearts of locals and history buffs alike.
Sigiriya, also known as the “lion rock” is an ancient engineering marvel, surrounded by breathtaking views and stories of kings and ancient artistry.
Kandy, better known as the hill city, is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Known as the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a special place in the hearts of every Sri Lankan.
This temple is situated in Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. The Dambulla Golden Rock Temple is a place where history, art, and spirituality meet to create an unforgettable experience.
Talking of the island’s most iconic National Parks, Yala is one of the few. This wildlife sanctuary is located in the Southeastern part of the country and renowned for its eco diversity and is mostly known as one of the premium homes of the Lanka leopard.
We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance to cover unforeseen cancellations, medical emergencies, or other travel disruptions.
We recommend confirming your travel dates before booking to avoid additional charges or inconvenience.