Discover the many layers of Sri Lanka on this carefully curated 13-day journey that blends cultural heritage, scenic landscapes, gentle adventure, and meaningful local encounters. Travelling from the laid-back coast of Negombo through the Cultural Triangle, misty hill country, tea plantations, wildlife-rich national parks, and historic southern shores, this itinerary is designed for travellers who value comfort, authenticity, and depth.
Along the way, explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites, walk through ancient cities, hike through tea country, meet local families, enjoy regional cuisine, and unwind in hand-picked hotels that reflect the character of each destination. With expert local guides and a relaxed pace, this journey offers a rich and rewarding way to experience Sri Lanka from coast to coast.
Welcome to Sri Lanka! On arrival, transfer to your hotel in the coastal town of Negombo, located close to the international airport. This relaxed seaside setting is the perfect place to ease into your journey. In the evening, meet your tour leader and fellow travellers for a welcome briefing. If you arrive early, take a stroll along the beach, explore the fishing harbour, or enjoy fresh seafood by the lagoon.
Hotel in Negombo
Dinner
The welcome briefing is an important part of the trip, covering essential travel information and introductions. If your arrival is delayed, please inform the hotel reception so arrangements can be made.
Travel inland towards Dambulla, passing through rural landscapes and historic towns. En route, stop near Kurunegala to visit a centuries-old cave shrine and learn about traditional Sri Lankan crafts such as palm-leaf writing and stone carving. Continue to Dambulla, where you’ll settle into your hotel and enjoy a free afternoon surrounded by nature.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast, Lunch
Total driving time today is approximately 4–5 hours, broken up with stops along the way.
Rise early to visit the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress before the day warms up. Climb the stone pathways past ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and the famous Mirror Wall to reach the summit, where panoramic views stretch across jungle and farmland. After breakfast back at the hotel, enjoy a relaxed afternoon, including a visit to a nearby village for a hands-on pottery experience and light refreshments.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast, Lunch
The Sigiriya climb involves steep stone steps and takes around 2–3 hours at a comfortable pace. You may choose to climb only partway if preferred.
Head to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and explore its remarkably preserved ruins by bicycle. Visit royal palaces, Buddhist temples, and impressive stone carvings that reveal the grandeur of this former capital. After a home-style lunch, continue to a nearby national park for a safari, where elephants, birds, and other wildlife are often seen around seasonal water sources.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast, Lunch
Wildlife sightings vary by season. Depending on conditions, the safari may take place in a neighbouring protected area to maximise viewing opportunities.
Journey south to the hill city of Kandy, stopping along the way to visit a spice garden and learn about the cultivation of cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, and nutmeg. In Kandy, enjoy a guided city tour including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka’s most important spiritual sites. The evening is free to explore the lakeside or attend an optional cultural performance.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth requires modest dress. Shoulders and knees must be covered.
Spend the day exploring rural life beyond the city. Visit a hill-country village and tea plantation, walking through paddy fields and learning about sustainable farming practices. Enjoy a home-cooked lunch with a local family before returning to Kandy for a relaxed evening.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast, Lunch
Board a scenic train for the journey into Sri Lanka’s tea country. Rolling hills, misty valleys, and endless plantations define the landscape as you travel to Nuwara Eliya, a former British hill station. Enjoy an orientation walk around the town and unwind with a traditional high tea at your heritage-style hotel.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast
Train schedules are subject to change. In rare cases, road transport may be used as an alternative.
Travel south through tea estates to Ella, a relaxed mountain town known for its scenery and walking trails. In the afternoon, hike a scenic section of the Pekoe Trail, passing through forest, plantations, and small villages. Visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge and enjoy lunch with a local family before spending the evening at leisure.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast, Lunch
The hike today covers approximately 9–10 km and takes around 3 hours on mostly well-defined paths.
Leave the highlands behind and descend towards Sri Lanka’s southern dry zone. Stop at viewpoints and waterfalls along the way before reaching Tissamaharama, located near several national parks. The rest of the day is free to relax by the pool or explore the town.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast
Set out early for a safari in a nearby national park, home to elephants, crocodiles, deer, and a wide variety of birdlife. Return to the hotel for a late breakfast and enjoy a free afternoon to unwind.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast
Safari routes and park selection may vary depending on wildlife movements and seasonal conditions.
Travel along the southern coast to Galle. On arrival, explore the historic Galle Fort on a guided walking tour, discovering its colonial architecture, lighthouse, and ramparts overlooking the Indian Ocean. Enjoy the evening at leisure.
Hotel (1 night)
Breakfast
Continue to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Take a guided orientation walk through key landmarks, bustling markets, and colonial-era buildings. In the evening, gather for a farewell dinner celebrating your journey.
Breakfast, Dinner
Your journey comes to an end after breakfast. You may depart at any time or extend your stay with additional nights in Colombo.
Breakfast
