Sri Lanka Tour Package 13 Days
Tour Summary
Embark on a mesmerizing journey through Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage. Begin in Galle, a coastal gem known for its UNESCO-protected Dutch Fort, where you’ll explore centuries-old landmarks and stroll along the fort walls with views of the Indian Ocean. Experience a unique Cinnamon and Toddy Experience and visit the Handunugoda Tea Estate, home to the rare “virgin white tea.”
Next, visit the Buduruwagala Temple, featuring ancient statues of Buddha and Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, before traveling to the picturesque village of Ella, surrounded by lush landscapes and waterfalls. Discover the Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural marvel from the British colonial era, before heading to Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In Kandy, enjoy a Cultural Dance Show and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, home to the revered relic of Buddha.
Explore the Tree Temple Loop, discovering the ancient craftsmanship and Buddhist heritage of Sri Lanka, and take a tuk-tuk ride to explore Kandy’s city center. Continue to Dambulla, where you’ll visit the renowned Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, famous for its ancient Buddhist statues and murals.
Discover the historic Polonnaruwa Ruins and take a jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, where you can witness the famous gathering of elephants. Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before visiting the mystical Ritigala Monastery and the sacred city of Anuradhapura, home to the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest recorded tree in the world.
Visit the Mihintale Rock Temple, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and explore Yapahuwa Rock Fortress en route to Colombo, the vibrant capital city. Conclude your cultural journey with a walking tour of Colombo, where you’ll discover historic sites, bustling markets, and colonial-era landmarks.
This tour offers an immersive experience into Sri Lanka's spellbinding cultural legacy, from ancient ruins to sacred temples, all set against the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
DAY 1
Destination: Galle Fort
Upon arrival in Sri Lanka you will be met and assisted by your very own Chauffeur. Then transfer to your hotel in Galle, an undeniably charming city on the south coast of Sri Lanka. At the centre of the city is the world famous and UNESCO protected Dutch Fort, around which a modern city has sprung into life providing the visitor with an interesting experience between new and old. Check in to the hotel set within Unesco-protected Galle Fort, a centuries-old fortified enclave.
Once you check in at your hotel relax and recover from any jet lag.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Galle Fort
DAY 2
Destination: Cinnamon & Toddy Experience
Today after breakfast visit a local home garden with a planter to witness the sophisticated art of cinnamon peeling and taste a rare Sri Lankan delicacy. Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer of true cinnamon, and the south of Sri Lanka produces most of the islands harvest. Visit a local cinnamon estate with the planter to know more about the spice, how it’s grown, harvested, and peeled. Although the careful art of peeling cinnamon requires some practice, the planter would teach his techniques to follow and learn. End this part of the experience with a cup of cinnamon infused tea.
The planter would then introduce you to diverse local vegetables, fruits, and flowers of his home garden. He would also showcase native uses of some plants such as making natural shampoo and toothbrushes!
After a short walk, we reach the Kithul grove where the planter will climb to the top of the tree to pick the sap that has been collecting for a few hours. This sweet delicacy is a rare treat to many locals as the availability Kithul toddy can be very limited. Taste this unprocessed plant-based drink with some local snacks sourced from the plantation.
Destination: Handungoda Tea Factory
Thereafter proceed to the Handunugoda Estate, the only tea estate situated in the coastal belt of Sri Lanka to explore a lesser-known tea plantation and factory. Hadunugoda is specializing in the artisanal manufacturing of ‘virgin white tea’ (a tea completely untouched by hand and follows an ancient Chinese tea making Ritual) and is one of the handful of estates in Sri Lanka exporting high-quality luxury teas to global markets. You will be taken to a guided tea plantation visit followed by a tea appreciation program. On completion return to the hotel.
Destination: Galle Fort Walk
Later in the afternoon explore the Galle Fort. 300 year old Dutch atmosphere is still very much alive around the fort and amidst its many historical buildings not invaded by the skyscrapers. The earliest European administrative centre of Sri Lanka was the major port and the largest city until the British shifted the port to Colombo. The City of Galle had been the European administrative centre over 4 centuries. Meander your way past some of the fort’s best known landmarks but look out also for some lesser known gems. A walk along the fort walls from the lighthouse allows you wonderful views out into the Indian Ocean, of the city behind it and into the famous Galle Cricket Ground, one of the most attractive of all international cricket venues.
Optional Activities: Explore Galle Fort in a classic car / Cycle through a local village Experience local art & craft / Enjoy a cookery class
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Galle Fort
DAY 3
Destination: Buduruwagala Temple
After breakfast check out from the hotel and leave for Ella. En route visit Buduruwagala, an ancient buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. The complex consists of seven statues and belongs to the Mahayana school of thought. The statues date back to the 10th century. The gigantic Buddha statue still bears traces of its original stuccoed robe and a long streak of orange suggests it was once brightly painted. The central of the three figures to the Buddha's right is thought to be the Buddhist mythological figure-the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara. To the left of this white painted figure is a female figure in the thrice-bent posture, which is thought to be his consort-Tara.
Destination: Ella
On completion proceed to Ella is a little village surrounded by high mountains and breathtaking vistas in the central hills of the country. It is Famous for the Ella Gap. It is also a base for plenty of trekking expeditions to the surrounding countryside and offers plenty of beautiful scenery and waterfalls.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Ella
DAY 4
Destination: Nine Arches Bridge
Today after breakfast check out from the hotel and explore the Nine Arches Bridge. It is one of the best examples of British railway constructions when Ceylon was a colony of the British Empire. The surrounding area has seen a steady increase of tourism due to the bridge's architectural ingenuity and the profuse greenery in the nearby hillsides.
Destination: Kandy
On completion proceed to Kandy, the bustling hill country capital is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for the Temple and the Kandy Lake built in 1807 which is an attractive centerpiece to the town. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Destination: Cultural Dance & Temple of the Tooth
In the evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display.
Thereafter visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, the most sacred temple in the whole of Sri Lanka. It is the prime monument, the supreme edifice not only of the Sinhalese Buddhist populace of Sri Lanka but also of the Buddhists all over the world. It is within this magnificent temple that the sacred Tooth relic of Buddha (Danta Dhatu), the palladium of the Sinhalese nation & Buddhist faith is enshrined. This important shrine boasts intricate carvings and beautiful Sri Lankan art. During the ‘puja’ throngs of pilgrims visit the temple to line up to glimpse the golden casket said to hold the sacred relic and to make offerings of flowers.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting The Temple of the Tooth Relic, with shoulders and knees covered.)
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kandy
DAY 5
Destination: Tree Temple Loop
After breakfast get into a tuk-tuk and discover the ancient architecture and artwork of Sri Lanka’s last royal region that’s known for its dedication to the arts. Possibly Gampola’s most legendary attraction, the Embekke, Lankatilaka and Galadeniya are a short distance from each other and sometimes referred to as the ‘three-temple loop’. The temples serve as a living testimony to Sri Lanka’s Buddhist heritage, history and exceptional craftsmanship. These three temples and shrines evidence the relationship between Hinduism and Buddhism in Sri Lankan heritage, revealing how each influences the other. Each temple holds a considerable amount of historical information of the ancient kingdom’s era, carved mostly in stone.
On completion return to the hotel.
Destination: Kandy City Tour
Later in the afternoon explore the city of Kandy. Stroll along the famous Kandy Lake, built in 1807 and forms an attractive center-piece for the town. Return to the city center, a stroll along the famous shopping streets and to points of interest such as the central market, local church, garrison cemetery, clock tower and the historic railway station. Additionally, you can visit a Gem Museum, a traditional hand carved wood factory and a Batik Studio.
Optional Activities: Explore the city with a local guide or in a Tuk-tuk / Enjoy a local food tour in Kandy
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kandy
DAY 6
Destination: Dambulla
Today after breakfast checkout from the hotel and leave for Dambulla, a small village and a central location in Cultural Triangle. The central plains area boasts ruined temples and ancient cities combined with national parks and glistening reservoirs.
Destination: Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
On arrival explore the famous Golden Rock cave temple; date back to the 1st Century BC which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, a vast isolated rock mass with its five caverns is the largest best preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings (covering an area of 2,100 sq. meters) are of particular importance as are the 157 statues including a 47 foot long statue of the recumbent Buddha. This amazing complex was first used as a refuge by an ancient king who upon regaining his throne, commissioned magnificent images to be carved from the rock. Later kings made further improvements and the caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha painted upon the walls of which the largest is a colossal figure spanning 15 meters. The hike up to the caves is short but steep. At the top you can explore the caves and enjoy spectacular far-reaching views over the surrounding countryside.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting Dambulla temple, with shoulders and knees covered. It is a steep uphill walk to the temple approx. 15-40 mins depending on route taken and on your fitness. Have an extra pair of socks to wear to prevent from the ground heat since you have to walk barefoot.)
On completion check in to the hotel.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Dambulla
DAY 7
Destination: Polonnaruwa Ruins
Today after breakfast leave for the second ancient capital Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage and a well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls, graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 AD to reunite the country once more under a local leader. Over the following three centuries Polonnaruwa became a thriving commercial and religious centre, reaching its zenith under King Parakramabahu I in the 12th Century.
Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Start with a visit to the Polonnaruwa Museum where you can learn about the site in more detail, before heading out to the ‘Gal Vihara’ which consists of statues of the recumbent, standing and seated Buddha have been cut from a single granite wall and rank among the true masterpieces of Sri Lankan Art. Other stops include Nissanka Latha Mandapaya which boasts well-preserved stone columns, the impressive Lankathilaka Temple and the ruined stone walls of the Royal Palace.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting Polonnaruwa ruins, with shoulders and knees covered. Have an extra pair of socks to wear to prevent from the ground heat since you have to walk barefoot.)
Optional Activities: You can explore the ruins by cycle
Destination: Minneriya National Park
Later in the afternoon leave for Minneriya for a Jeep Safari. Minneriya National Park is about 8889 hectares in extent and is an ideal eco-tourism location in Sri Lanka. It is home to Sri Lanka’s favorites such as spotted deer, Sambar and wild Asian elephants, particularly numerous in August and September when they migrate along a corridor from neighboring parks to feed on the fresh grass on the lake bed - an annual event known as "The Gathering".
(Please be prepared for some rough and dusty road. National park can be crowded especially over weekends and festivals. Depending on the movement of the elephants you may visit the nearby Kaudulla National Park or Eco Park instead.)
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Dambulla
DAY 8
Destination: Sigiriya Rock
Early this morning, set off for Sigiriya, also known as the ‘Lion Rock’, one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. This 5th Century "Fortress in the Sky" is a UNESCO World Heritage built by King Kassapa which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The spectacular pillar of rock rise 200 meters from the scrub jungle and the base of the rock is ringed by a moat and rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens. The majestic Lion’s Paw picturesquely guards the stairway of the palace on the summit.
You might like to start with a visit to the Sigiriya Museum to learn more about the site before wandering through the vast landscaped gardens to the base of the rock. The climb to the top is steep with many steps and there are some sections where the path or staircase is very narrow with steep drops protected by fences. You will pass the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall before arriving at the massive stone lion’s paws. The old stairway to the top led through the mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of the massive proportions of the head. The summit, covering an area of 1.6 hectares, was originally completely covered by buildings, but only remains of the royal citadel can be seen today.
(We do not recommend this for those without a head for heights or the less mobile. The hike up and down again will take 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your fitness.)
On completion return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Dambulla
DAY 9
Destination: Ritigala Monastery
After breakfast check out from the hotel and leave for the Ritigala Monastry, a range of mountains which is near to Anuradhapura. Ritigala was the royal medicinal forest for the ancient cities in the area and was also the site of an important Buddhist monastic community. Today the visible remains are those of the monastic congregation which practiced meditation in total austerity, preferring the wild environment of the forests to the busy towns. This mystical place is incredibly beautiful and with shady forests filled with streams, pools and sculptural granite boulders and ancient elegant stone pathways, which wind through the forest to the ruins of the various meditation platforms. A short climb off the foot of the mountain takes you to the ruins that are scattered over an area of about 120 acres and has no stupas, no image houses or temples. There are many monastic ruins of stones, terrace ways, circular terraces, a stone bridge, and remains of a giant stone banked pond built across a water stream.
Destination: Anuradhapura
On completion proceed to Anuradhapura, founded in the 04th century B.C a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. It was the most extensive and significant of the Sri Lankan royal capitals, but its extent of its history since its collapse, make it more difficult to understand than younger, shorter-lived Polonnaruwa. Check in to the hotel on arrival.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Anuradhapura
DAY 10
Destination: Mihintale Rock Temple
Today after an early breakfast proceed to Mihintale. Visit the ancient remains of Mihintale, a sacred place which is regarded as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The rock is dotted with shrines and rock dwellings. A grand stairway of 1840 steps made of granite slabs, 5 meters wide leads to the summit with its splendid views of the surrounding countryside.
Destination: Anuradhapura Scared City
Afterwards explore the sacred ancient city of Anuradhapura. It has the largest number of ancient monuments of the great Sinhala civilization which flourished in this region and many ancient monuments still stand tall, and have become a fascinating place for site seeing. You will see some of the most famous as well as the tallest Stupa Ruwanwelisaya and the Ruins of ancient royal palaces. Another amazing site would be the ‘Sri Maha Bodhi’ or the sacred Bo tree which is over 2200 years old grown from a branch of the very tree under which “The Buddha” attained enlightenment – the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting Anuradhapura ruins, with shoulders and knees covered. Have an extra pair of socks to wear to prevent from the ground heat since you have to walk barefoot.)
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Anuradhapura
DAY 11
Destination: Yapahuwa Rock Fortress
Today after breakfast check out from the hotel and leave for Colombo. En route you will stop to visit Yapahuwa, which was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. The citadel was a palace and military strong hold against foreign invaders and was built around a huge granite rock rising abruptly almost a hundred meters above the surrounding lowlands.
En route visit Yapahuwa which was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. The citadel was a palace and military strong hold against foreign invaders and was built around a huge granite rock rising abruptly almost a hundred meters above the surrounding lowlands. Many traces of ancient battle defenses can still be seen, while an ornamental stairway, is its biggest showpiece. This staircase is a long one with around 100 steps. On top of the rock are the remains of a stupa, a Bodhi tree enclosure, and a rock shelter/cave used by Buddhist monks, indicating that earlier this site was used as a Buddhist monastery, like many boulders and hills in the area. There are several caves at the base of the rock. In one of them there is a shrine with Buddha images. One cave has a Brahmi script inscription. At the southern base of the rock there is a fortification with two moats and ramparts. In this enclosure there are the remains of a number of buildings including a Buddhist shrine.
Destination: Colombo
On completion continue to Colombo, the commercial and city center known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. On arrival check in to the hotel.Overnight Stay: Hotel in Colombo
DAY 12
Destination: Colombo
Today you will be met at your hotel and taken on a walking tour of Colombo with a charismatic local resident. See the Old Dutch hospital, now a shopping and restaurant complex. Take a walk around the vibrant markets and bazaars of Pettah, still as bustling as it would have been in the late 19th Century and pass the Red Mosque, one of the oldest on the island. Drive on past the old St John’s Fish Market, now a gold souk, to Wolvendaal Church, the country’s oldest Protestant church and the burial ground for the elite Dutch. Continue past the old parliament, where you will see many statues of former presidents and prime ministers of Sri Lanka, to Galle Face Green, a long stretch of lawn facing the sea. Drive past the Town hall, Cinnamon Gardens to proceed to Independence Square, the location where Sri Lanka proclaimed its independence from British rule in 1948. Visit the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Make the last stop of the day at Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo. Explore the architecture and paintings of this religious site before cross the street to Bera Lake, is a lake in the center of the city of Colombo.
Overnight Stay: Hotel in Colombo
DAY 13
Destination: Airport
Now that you are at the end of your journey with us, your chauffeur will comfortably take you to the international airport in time for your departure flight.
End of the Tour
Cost of the Tour – Sri Lanka
Using the Hotels mentioned below.
City |
Hotel |
Room Category |
Meal Plan |
Night |
Galle Fort |
Yara Galle |
Deluxe |
BB |
02 |
Ella |
Morning Dew |
Deluxe |
BB |
01 |
Kandy |
Hotel Thilanka |
Deluxe |
BB |
02 |
Dambulla |
Sigiriana Resort |
Deluxe |
BB |
03 |
Anuradhapura |
Lake Forest |
Deluxe |
BB |
02 |
Colombo |
Colombo Court Hotel |
Deluxe |
BB |
02 |
Validity Period |
Based on 02 Pax travelling |
01.11.2024 – 19.12.202411.01.2025 – 30.04.2025 |
US $ 2140/- per person sharing a double room X 2 |
The rates given herein include currently applicable service charges & government taxes. Without prior notice it is possible that there could be further levies, fuel surcharges, changes in the government tax structure or any new supplements introduce by hotels in which situation the rates given herein will be subject to change. This will also be applicable to all supplements mention herein.
Please note the above is only a quote and we have not blocked any accommodation so far. Once you give us a go ahead with the booking we will initiate reservation and advise you of the status accordingly.
Above rates include
- Meet and assist on arrival & assist on departure
- Accommodation on bed and breakfast basis at the mentioned hotels or hotels with similar standards.
- Transportation using an A/C car with an English speaking chauffeur guide as per the itinerary
- Porterage at the airport and at all hotels.
- Entrance fees at visiting sites as per the given itinerary.
- Applicable jeep hires
Not included
- Visa processing
- International or domestic airfares
- Lunches & Dinners not mentioned above
- Alcoholic and nonalcoholic beverages at all hotels & Mini-bars in hotel rooms
- Gratuities
- Any other special supplement introduce by the government or hotel due to various reasons ex: cricket etc…
- Items of personal nature such as, laundry, telephone calls, tipping etc.
Cancellation Policy
- If cancelled within 45 days = 25% cancellation charges will apply
- If cancelled within 30 days = 50% cancellation charges will apply
- If cancelled within 21 days = 75% cancellation charges will apply
- If cancelled within 14 days = 100% cancellation charges will apply
