Overview
Embark on an unforgettable 12-day Sri Lanka tour covering the island’s most iconic destinations. From the tropical shores of Negombo to the cultural marvels of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, and from the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya and Ella to the wildlife adventures of Yala National Park, this journey blends history, culture, and nature. Relax on the golden beaches of Mirissa and Ahangama, enjoy whale watching, and explore the colonial charm of Galle before wrapping up with a vibrant Colombo city tour. This carefully crafted itinerary ensures the perfect mix of exploration, relaxation, and authentic Sri Lankan experiences.
Highlights
- Authentic Sri Lankan cuisine & cultural experiences throughout.
- River safari & turtle hatchery visits.
- Southern coast relaxation: Mirissa, Matara, Bentota beaches, whale watching.
- Hill country exploration: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella train ride.
- Wildlife safaris at Wilpattu, Minneriya/Kaudulla, Yala National Park.
- UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Galle Fort.
- Explore Colombo, Negombo, and ancient capitals: Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya.
Start your Sri Lankan adventure in Negombo, greeted by your Odyssey Lanka.representative. Explore the vibrant Negombo Fish Market, stroll along the golden beach, and enjoy the sea breeze and tropical atmosphere. End your day with a beachside seafood feast.
Activities & Highlights:
- Arrival in Negombo.
- Explore the bustling fish market.
- Lunch at a local restaurant.
- Stroll along Negombo Beach.
- Dinner and overnight stay at Regenta Arie Lagoon, Negombo.
Travel Time: Airport to Negombo – 20 min
Drive through scenic countryside to Dambulla. Visit the Elephant Orphanage or Elephant Foundation, then enjoy a traditional Sigiriya village tour with a bullock cart ride. Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to enjoy breathtaking views and ancient frescoes.
Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya, Sigiriya
Travel Time: Negombo to Sigiriya – approx. 4 hr
Optional sunrise trek at Pidurangala Rock, followed by exploration of Polonnaruwa archaeological site. Enjoy a local lunch, then go on an afternoon safari to witness the largest elephant gathering in Asia.
Accommodation: Hotel Sigiriya, Sigiriya
Travel Time: Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa – 1h 20 min
Travel to Kandy, visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex en route. Explore a Herbal & Spices Garden, then visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. End the day with a Kandyan Cultural Dance Show.
Accommodation: Hotel Topaz, Kandy
Travel Time: Sigiriya to Kandy – 2 hr 30 min
Enjoy a full-day Kandy city tour:
- Visit Kandy Viewpoint for panoramic city views.
- Explore Gem Lapidary and Kandyan Arts & Crafts Center.
- Stroll through the lively Kandy Local Market.
- Visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden.
Accommodation: Hotel Topaz, Kandy
After breakfast, journey to the cool, misty hills of Nuwara Eliya, passing through scenic tea plantations. Explore the charming town, often called “Little England,” and visit a tea factory to uncover the secrets of world-famous Ceylon tea. Take an evening stroll along Gregory Lake and enjoy a relaxing dinner in the hills.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Travel from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (approx. 3 hr)
- Visit scenic tea plantations and tea factory
- Explore “Little England” town
- Evening stroll at Gregory Lake
- Dinner and overnight stay at The Lynden Grove, Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy a breathtaking train journey from Nanu-Oya to Ella, passing waterfalls and lush tea estates. Explore the mountain village of Ella, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, and hike Mini Adam’s Peak for panoramic views. Dinner in Ella features authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Train journey from Nanu-Oya to Ella (approx. 4 hr)
- Explore Ella village and scenic surroundings
- Visit Nine Arches Bridge
- Hike Mini Adam’s Peak
- Dinner and overnight stay at Ekho Ella, Ella
Set out for an exciting safari at Yala National Park, spotting leopards, elephants, and wildlife. Optional visits to Ravana Waterfalls and Buduruwagala Temple enhance your day. Enjoy dinner and overnight stay in Thissamaharama.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer to Yala (approx. 2 hr 30 min)
- Safari adventure in Yala National Park
- Optional visits: Ravana Waterfalls & Buduruwagala Temple
- Dinner and overnight stay at Chaarya Resort & Spa, Thissamaharama
Relax along the golden beaches of Mirissa and Ahangama. Indulge in a seafood feast, enjoy water sports activities, and capture stunning sunset views at Coconut Tree Hill.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Transfer to Mirissa (approx. 2 hr 30 min)
- Seafood lunch at a local restaurant
- Beach relaxation & water sports (surfing, snorkeling, diving, deep-sea fishing)
- Sunset photography at Coconut Tree Hill
Start early with sunrise whale watching. Enjoy a fresh seafood lunch, optional beachside activities, and a relaxing evening with dinner by the ocean.
Key Activities:
- Sunrise whale watching adventure
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Water sports and beach relaxation
- Seafood lunch
- Dinner by the beach
Visit Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, then enjoy a boat safari along Madu River and visit a turtle hatchery. Reach Bentota for a relaxing evening and dinner.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Explore Galle Fort & city
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Madu River boat safari
- Visit a turtle hatchery
- Travel to Bentota
- Dinner and overnight stay at The Palms, Bentota
Conclude your tour with a Colombo city tour. Visit Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, Port City, Independence Square, Dutch Hospital Complex, and Red Mosque. End with a farewell dinner before transfer to the airport.
Key Activities:
- Breakfast at the hotel
- Colombo city tour highlights
- Lunch at a local restaurant
- Visit Colombo National Museum & Dutch Hospital precinct
- Farewell dinner
- Airport transfer (approx. 3 hr)
Cost Includes
- Airport pick-up and drop-off on the first and last day
- Accommodation
- Professional chauffeur guide
- Fully air-conditioned private luxury vehicle
- A complimentary bottle of water per person each day
- Cultural village tour with authentic local lunch in a farmer’s house
- Catamaran boat ride in the lake to catch the amazing views of Sigiriya
- Local curry cooking demonstration during the village tour
- Bicycle tour in Polonnaruwa
- Organic Spices Garden
- Kandy city tour and viewpoint
- Cultural dancing show
- A tour through Nuwara Eliya local markets
- Visit to a tea factory
- Spectacular train journey into the mountains
- Mini Adam’s Peak Trekking
- Nine Arch Bridge & Ravana Waterfall
- Galle Fort & city tour
- Visit Turtle Hatchery
- Colombo city and shopping tour
- Government tax / No hidden charges
- 24-hour emergency contact
Cost Excludes
- Entrance, excursions, and activity fees which are not mentioned in the inclusions
- Airfare, travel insurance, and visa fees
- Any personal expenses
- Late check-out & early check-in charges
- Meals not mentioned in the itinerary