Classic Sri Lanka Tour With Beach Vacation (Small Group Tour)

Itinerary

• Day 1: Arrival, Colombo - Negombo

  Welcome to Sri Lanka, the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean"! As you touch down at the Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, take a taxi or our optional private transfer to the hotel in the seaside town of Negombo, about 20 minutes away.

  Before enjoying dinner, you may have some leisure time to recover from jet lag or explore its sandy beach.

  Optional: Private transfer from the airport to the hotel

  Accommodation: Camelot Beach Resort or similar (4-star)

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  • Colombo

• Day 2: Negombo - Sigiriya

  Start the tour today by exploring the Negombo Fish Market. Situated near the Negombo Lagoon, the market features an array of fresh seafood, including tuna, prawns, and crabs. It serves as a hub for local fishermen and traders, offering a lively atmosphere where visitors can experience the traditional fishing culture of Sri Lanka.

  Continue your journey to Sigiriya by road (approx. 3.5 hours). On arrival, you will visit the Hiriwaduna Village, which offers an authentic and immersive rural experience. Here, you can enjoy activities such as a bullock cart ride through paddy fields, a visit to a local village's home, and a boat trip on the serene lake for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.

  Accommodation: Camelia Resort & Spa or similar (4-star)

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  • Sigiriya

• Day 3: Sigiriya

  This morning is highlighted by the UNESCO-listed Lion Rock. While climbing up to the ruined citadel on the top of a 200-meter-high massive rock, you will see a series of colorful frescoes. When getting on the top, you will be overwhelmed by the ruined frame of the 5th-century royal palace and the panoramic views of the sprawling jungles.

  In the afternoon, you will visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site perched atop a 160-meter-high rock. Dating back to the 1st century BC, the temple complex consists of five main caves adorned with exquisite murals and over 150 statues of the Buddha, Hindu deities, and historical figures.

  Accommodation: Camelia Resort & Spa or similar (4-star)

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  • Sigiriya

• Day 4: Sigiriya - Kandy

  Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, and then you will head for Sri Lanka's old capital - Kandy. En route, stop at a spice garden to learn a wide range of spices and, if you like, enjoy a 15-minute Ayurveda Massage for free.

  After arriving in Kandy, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, or Sri Dalada Maligawa, a venerated Buddhist sanctuary housing the revered relic of Buddha's tooth. The temple is renowned for its elaborate architecture, intricate wood carvings, and the vibrant daily ceremonies held in honor of the relic.

  Round off the day with a vivid traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance. A great combination of dynamic movements, elaborate costumes, music, drumming, and fire acts showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Kandyan Kingdom (1591-1765).

  Accommodation: Hotel Topaz or similar (4-star)

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  • Kandy

• Day 5: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya (Train Ride)

  After breakfast and check-out, embark on a 4-hour slow-paced train journey (subject to availability) from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, considered one of the most beautiful in the world. An ever-changing landscape of misty mountains, cascading waterfalls, and lush tea plantations unfolds outside your window. Upon arrival at Nanu Oya Railway Station, you will be greeted and transferred to your hotel for check-in and relaxation.

  This afternoon goes with a visit to a tea plantation and factory, where you can discover the secrets behind the world-famous Ceylon Tea. Learn about the tea-making process, try your hands at tea picking, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea. Closing out the day, enjoy a leisurely walk around Gregory Lake, an expansive artificial lake built in 1873, surrounded by rolling hills and lush greenery.

  Accommodation: Araliya Green Hills or similar (4-star)

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  • Nuwara Eliya

• Day 6: Nuwara Eliya - Yala

  This morning, depart on a scenic 3.5-hour drive towards Yala. Along the way, enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Ella, a charming town known for its stunning landscapes, lush tea plantations, and picturesque hiking trails.

  Upon arriving in Yala, settle into your hotel and refresh before heading out on an exciting evening jeep safari in Yala National Park. You might spot a wide range of wildlife, such as elephants, sambar deer, and macaques, as well as various birds. The park is famed for its leopard sightings, so be sure to have your camera ready.

  Accommodation: Elephant Reach Hotel or similar (4-star)

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  • Yala

• Day 7: Yala - Galle - Down South Beach

  The last leg of your journey takes you, over a 3.5-hour road transfer, to the stunning southwest coast of Sri Lanka. This beautiful stretch of coastline is famous for its gorgeous beaches, colorful coral reefs, and vibrant nightlife. It's an ideal spot for snorkeling and diving, where you can get close to the marine life.

  On the way, stop off to visit the historic city of Galle, home to the over-430-year Dutch Fort under UNESCO recognition. Car-free streets, encircled by historic stone sea walls, are lined with various colonial architecture reflecting Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Key landmarks include the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church and Galle Lighthouse.

  Accommodation: EKHO Surf Bentota or similar (4-star)

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  • Bentota

• Day 8: Down South Beach, Leisure Day

  You have the whole day free to do as much or as little as you like.

  Perhaps enjoy a morning swim in the warm, clear waters, followed by snorkeling or diving (OPTIONAL) to discover colorful coral reefs and fascinating marine life. For total relaxation, take a leisurely walk along the sandy shore and find a cozy spot under a palm tree with a good book. When at noon, why not treat yourself to a delicious seafood lunch at a charming beachside restaurant? As the sun sets, kick back with a cool drink and watch the sky transform into a canvas of vibrant colors. To end the day, enjoy a serene stroll along the moonlit beach, soaking in the tranquil evening atmosphere.

  Accommodation: EKHO Surf Bentota or similar (4-star)

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  • Bentota

• Day 9: Down South Beach - Colombo, Departure

  As your incredible journey through Sri Lanka comes to an end, it's time to bid farewell. After breakfast at the hotel, transfer back to Colombo airport for your departure flight. Safe travels!

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