Sri Lanka Island Highlights - 10 Days

On arrival at Colombo Airport, our representative will meet and welcome you before accompanying you to your hotel. Once checked in, you can settle into your room and enjoy the remainder of the day at your own pace. Overnight in Colombo.

We set off early from Colombo and travel to the Dambulla Rock Temple, a remarkable pilgrimage site with a history spanning over 2,000 years. Carved deep into the mountain, this UNESCO World Heritage Site features five caves adorned with intricate murals and more than 150 statues depicting the Buddha, deities, and Sri Lankan kings. Our journey continues to Polonnaruwa, where we explore the ancient Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya’s impressive rock-cut Buddhas, the Audience Hall, and the distinctive Lotus Bath. We also visit the statue of King Parakramabahu, the vast Parakrama Samudraya reservoir built by the king, the Shiva Temple, Lankathilake, Watadage, Galpotha, Kiri Vehera, and the remains of a former Temple of the Tooth Relic. After a full day of discovery, we transfer to Habarana for an overnight stay.

After breakfast, we set off to explore the remarkable Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Rising nearly 200 metres above the surrounding rainforest, this fifth-century citadel was built by King Kashyapa and is known as Lion Rock. The climb takes us through the lion’s ‘belly’ and up to the summit, where we can take in panoramic views and see the remains of this once-mighty stronghold. After descending, we continue our journey to Kandy. In the afternoon, we take a guided city tour, including a visit to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. In the evening, we experience a cultural show before settling in for the night in Kandy.

We begin the day with a visit to a tea plantation and factory, where you can observe the journey of Sri Lanka’s renowned tea – from the careful plucking of leaves through to grading, selection and the final drying process. This experience concludes with a tasting of authentic Ceylon tea at the factory. Afterwards, we continue to Ella and check in to your hotel for the evening. Overnight in Ella.

After breakfast, we set out to discover Ella’s highlights. Take in the impressive Ella Gap, where you can enjoy panoramic views across lush valleys and distant mountains. We also visit the renowned Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic railway viaduct surrounded by verdant tea plantations and forest. Afterwards, return to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight in Ella.

After breakfast, we drive to Tissamaharama and check in to the hotel. In the afternoon, we set out on a safari in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife reserve. The park is known for its diverse habitats and rich wildlife, including elephants, leopards and a variety of bird species. After the safari, we return to the hotel, where you have the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight in Tissamaharama or Yala.

We begin the day early with a packed breakfast and set out for a morning safari in Yala National Park, offering another opportunity to observe the park’s diverse wildlife in their natural habitat. After the safari, we continue our journey to Galle. In the afternoon, we explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved ramparts and bastions dating back over three centuries. As we walk along the fort’s walls and through its grid-patterned streets, you’ll notice the blend of Dutch colonial architecture and South Asian influences. Highlights include the Old Gate with the British coat of arms, the Zwart Bastion—the oldest in the fort—and the lighthouse near Point Utrecht Bastion. You may wish to visit the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex for local souvenirs or simply enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of this living fort, which remains home to administrative offices, churches, and a thriving local community. After our exploration, we return to the hotel for the evening. Overnight in Galle.

After breakfast, we check out and travel to the Bentota or Wadduwa area. On arrival, we check in to the hotel, and you have the remainder of the day to spend at your leisure. This is a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy the coastal surroundings. Overnight in Bentota or Wadduwa.

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then spend the day at your leisure. You can relax on the beach or make the most of the hotel’s facilities. Overnight in Bentota or Wadduwa.

After breakfast, we will arrange your transfer to Colombo Airport in time for your departure flight.