
Discover the Soul of Sri Lanka
12 Days / 11 Nights
Description
Enjoy a snapshot of Sri Lanka’s rich diversity—from thrilling wildlife safaris and sacred temples to scenic walks through lush, tea-covered hills.
This unforgettable journey begins with one night in Colombo, followed by two nights in the Cultural Triangle. Continue with a night in Kandy and another in the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya, then spend two nights in Ella. Venture into the jungles of Udawalawe for a night before unwinding with two nights each in Mirissa and Galle—creating an exciting and well-balanced 11-night adventure.
Attracations & Activities
- Colombo / Kandy /Nuwara Eliya /Galle City Tour
- Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple
- Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock
- Minneriya Elephant Safari
- Polonnaruwa Historical City
- Visit the Tooth of Relic Temple
- Visit Royal Botanical Garden
- Tea Plantation & Tea Tasting Tour.
- Train Ride to Nanu oya to Ella
- Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak
- Tuk- Tuk ride to Lipton Seat
- Udawalawa National Park Safari & Elephant Transit Home.
- Whale Watching Tour in Mirissa
- Visit Sea Turtle Conservation Center
Locations
- Colombo
- Dambulla
- Polonnaruwa
- Kandy
- Nuwara Eliya
- Ella
- Udawalawa
- Mirissa
- Galle
Travel Route
Itinerary
DAY 01 | ARRIVAL | TRANSFER TO COLOMBO

Highlights
- Relax at the Hotel
- Colombo City Tour
Ayubowan – Welcome to Sri Lanka!
- Upon your arrival, you will be warmly welcomed by representatives of Real Lanka and transferred to Colombo.
- Check-in to the hotel, rest and relax to recover from jet lag.
- If you have spare time, your chauffeur guide will introduce you to some of Colombo’s curious sites such as:
- the vibrant markets of Pettah
- old city of Fort
- the Hindu Temple at Sea Street
- the Dutch Church at Wolfendal
- alternatively to indulge in some shopping
Colombo: Situated in the western province of Sri Lanka, Colombo is the island’s capital. Diverse and vibrant, the city is the administrative and economic center of the country. The city offers historical monuments, colonial architecture, beaches, and fine dining and shopping. Its architecture has been influenced by Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonization.




DAY 02 & 03 | ARRIVAL | TRANSFER TO DAMBULLA

Highlights
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Sigiriya Lion Rock
- Kaudulla National Park Safari
- Polonnaruwa Relic City
Cultural Triangle & Wildlife Highlights
- Depart from Colombo to the inland of Sri Lanka
- Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple
- Continue to Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (5th century)
- Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
- Walking tour of key ruins (including temples, palace, and sacred sites)
- Afternoon jeep safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park
Dambulla Cave/Golden Temple:
Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple is a living Buddhist site featuring five cave shrines. Thousands of years ago, a massive rock was manually hollowed out to create these caves. Each cave houses its own temple, with intricately painted ceilings depicting Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and various deities.
Sigiriya Lion Rock:
Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an impressive rock fortress and temple complex atop a volcanic plateau. Known as the “Eighth Wonder of the World,” it features the remains of a giant lion-shaped entrance, palace ruins, exquisite frescoes, and expansive water and rock gardens.
Polonnaruwa – UNESCO World Heritage Site
Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s most important ancient cities, dates back to the 6th century BC. Once a thriving agricultural hub, it was shaped by advanced irrigation systems and reservoirs built by early kings. The city later became a strategic capital, especially during times when Anuradhapura was under threat. Today, Polonnaruwa stands as a remarkable showcase of Sri Lanka’s rich history, with well-preserved ruins reflecting its former grandeur.
Minneriya National Park:
Just 30 minutes from Sigiriya, Minneriya National Park is famous for its annual “Elephant Gathering” during the dry season, when herds migrate to the Minneriya Reservoir. Visitors can observe elephants, a variety of bird species, other mammals, and diverse plant life.




DAY 04 | TRANSFER TO KANDY

Highlights
- Tooth of Relic Temple
- Arthur’s Seat View Point
- Kandy Traditional Dance Show
From Dambulla to Kandy – Cultural Capital of Sri Lanka
- After the Breakfast transfer to the Kandy.
- On route visit to Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Sunset at the Kandy Arthur’s seat view point.
- Witness the Kandy traditional dance show.
- Dinner and overnight stay in Kandy hotel.
Kandy – Nestled in a scenic valley surrounded by mountains, Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
At the center lies the picturesque Kandy Lake (Kiri Muhuda). The city is best known for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
Other highlights include the Royal Botanical Gardens, Bahirawakanda Temple, Udawattekele Sanctuary, the Ceylon Tea Museum, and Wales Park – perfect for a peaceful stroll.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic:
A visit to this sacred temple is a must when in Kandy. Known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, it is Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist site, dating back to the 16th century.
Located next to the former royal palace and overlooking Kandy Lake, the temple houses the sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha – a powerful symbol of Sinhalese identity and heritage.
Every day, thousands of pilgrims dressed in white bring lotus flowers and frangipani as offerings during traditional puja ceremonies. Although the relic itself is kept within a golden casket, visitors can view the inner shrine during these rituals.
Each year, the relic casket is paraded through the streets during the Esala Perahera – a spectacular 10-day festival and one of the most important Buddhist celebrations in the world.
Best time to visit: Morning or evening during puja ceremonies.
Arthur’s Seat:
Arthur’s Seat is a popular lookout southwest of Kandy, located on Rajapihilla Mawatha at 550 m (1,800 ft) above sea level. It offers panoramic views of Kandy Lake, Sri Dalada Maligawa, the Royal Palace, and the city center. According to local folklore, a British tea planter named Mr. Arthur once stood on a stone seat under a tree at his bungalow to admire the city.
The site attracts around 1,500 visitors per day during peak season (November to May) and 500 per day in the off-season. In 2016, a new viewing platform was built—a 35 m × 5 m concrete deck with a symbolic seat made from the original rock slab—despite protests from the City’s Heritage Committee over the loss of the historic stone seat.




DAY 05 | PROCEED TO NUWARA ELIYA

Highlights
- Royal Botanical Garden
- Ramboda & Lovers Leap Waterfalls
- Tea Plantation and Tea Tasting Tour
- Nuwara Eliya City Tour
- Gregory Lake
- Victoria Park
From Kandy to Nuwara Eliya – Tea Country Journey
- After the Breakfast proceed to Nuwara Eliya.
- On route visit to Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya.
- Ramboda and Puna Ella view point.
- Tea tasting and Tea Plantation tour in Nuwara Eliya.
- Nuwara Eliya City Tour including (Gregory lake and Victoria park)
- Dinner and overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya hotel.
Royal Botanical Garden – Peradeniya
Just outside Kandy, the stunning Peradeniya Botanical Garden is one of Asia’s finest. Set within a bend of the Mahaweli River, this historic garden dates back to 1371 and later flourished under British rule. Today, it showcases over 4,000 plant species, including a spectacular orchid collection, towering palm avenues, and a rich variety of medicinal plants and spices. Wander through beautifully landscaped lawns, vibrant tropical blooms, and majestic trees for a truly serene and colorful experience.
Tea Plantations of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea is at the heart of the island’s heritage and economy. Introduced in 1867 by Scotsman James Taylor, tea production remains one of the country’s most important industries. Visit a tea plantation to experience the journey from fresh green leaves to the perfect cup—through withering, rolling, oxidizing, and drying. Enjoy a tasting of authentic, freshly brewed Ceylon tea while soaking in the lush surroundings.
Nuwara Eliya – “Little England”
Nestled in the cool highlands, Nuwara Eliya charms visitors with its colonial flair and breathtaking scenery. Often called “Little England,” the town features red telephone boxes, manicured gardens, and rolling green hills. Surrounded by tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty mountains, it’s the perfect base for scenic walks and hikes, including the famous Adam’s Peak. A refreshing escape into Sri Lanka’s cooler, greener side.




DAY 06 & 07 | TRAIN RIDE TO ELLA

Highlights
- Stunning Train Ride
- Nine Arches Bridge
- Mini Adam’s Peak
- Tuk Tuk ride to Lipton Seat
Ella & Hill Country Experience
- Scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella
- Enjoy views of waterfalls, tea plantations, villages, forests, and mountains
- Relax in the charming hill-country village of Ella
- Take in panoramic views through the famous Ella Gap
- Morning hike to Little Adam’s Peak (easy and rewarding)
- Walk through lush tea estates and observe local tea picking
- Afternoon visit to Lipton’s Seat viewpoint in Haputale
- Enjoy one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking panoramic views
Train Ride to Ella
The train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella is often ranked among the most scenic in the world. Over the course of around four hours, the train winds through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and picturesque villages. This iconic route—especially between Kandy and Ella—is considered one of the true highlights of Sri Lanka.
Little Adam’s Peak
Named for its resemblance to the famous Adam’s Peak, this gentle hike offers stunning panoramic views over the Uva region and beyond. Located just a short distance from Ella town, the trail leads through beautiful tea estates and is a favorite among both local and international visitors. The hike is easy, short, and incredibly rewarding.
Nine Arches Bridge
Set between Ella and Demodara, this impressive colonial-era viaduct is one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Built entirely from stone, brick, and cement—without any steel—it stands over 30 meters high amidst lush jungle surroundings. Known locally as the “Bridge in the Sky,” its nine elegant arches create a truly unforgettable sight, especially when a train passes over it.
Lipton’s Seat
Once a favorite viewpoint of Sir Thomas Lipton, this scenic lookout near Haputale offers sweeping views over the surrounding tea plantations. Accessible by road or a scenic walk, it’s the perfect place to take in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country—just as the famous tea pioneer once did.




DAY 08 | PROCEED TO UDAWALAWA

Highlights
- Ravana Waterfall
- Udawalawa National Park Safari
Udawalawe National Park & Ravana Falls
- Journey into Sri Lanka’s wildlife region toward Udawalawe
- Visit the scenic Ravana Falls, one of the island’s most beautiful waterfalls
- Enjoy a short stop to take in the views and surroundings
- Continue to Udawalawe National Park, known for its abundant wildlife
- Experience an exciting jeep safari through open grasslands and wetlands
- High chance of spotting wild elephants in their natural habitat
- Look out for buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife
Ravana Waterfall: This is popularly known by the name of Ravana Ella by the tourists as well as the villagers around. There is another waterfall above this falls which is not visible to the main road which is also called Ravana Falls. This is generally considered the real Ravana Falls due the close proximity of the cave which is considered a place there Sita (in Ramayana) has hidden by the Lankan King Ravana for a while.
Udawalawe National Park: Situated south of the central hill country the Udawalawe National Park was established in 1972 after the Udawalawe Reservoir was constructed causing the displacement of the wild animals in the area. The third most popular park in the island, Udawalawe is an important habitat for aquatic birds and Sri Lankan Elephants. With around 600 elephants in the park, Udawalawe is reputed to be one of the best places in the island to spot these giant creatures. In 1995 the intriguing Elephant Transit Home was founded and provides shelter and a home to around 25 baby elephants who were orphaned in the wild. UdaWalawe is also inhabited by crocodiles, foxes, 30 varieties of snakes, spotted and sambar deer as well as hundreds of buffaloes and a few leopards. There are three camp sites and four bungalows along the reservoir and the Walawe Ganga if you want to experience an authentic life in the wilds.




DAY 09-12 | PROCEED TO MIRISSA

Highlights
- Coconut Tree Hills
- Whale Watching Tour
- Sea Turtle Conservation Center
- Galle Dutch Fort
- Departure
Southern Coast Escape & Departure
- Journey from the hill country to the idyllic coast of Mirissa, passing rivers, farmlands, and lush landscapes
- Arrive in Mirissa and stay at a beachfront hotel surrounded by coconut groves
- Enjoy relaxing days with stunning views of the Indian Ocean
- Day trip to Galle to explore its historic charm and cultural influences
- Visit a Sea Turtle Conservation Center to learn about marine life protection
- Opportunity for whale watching in Mirissa (seasonal highlight)
- Leisure time to unwind on the beach or explore the surroundings
- Transfer to the airport with your chauffeur guide for your departure flight
Mirissa – Whale Watching Paradise
Mirissa is one of the best places in the world for whale and dolphin watching, especially between November and April. During this season, calm waters attract a wide variety of marine life, including blue whales—the largest animals on earth—as well as sperm whales, Bryde’s whales, and playful dolphins.
Most tours start early in the morning and last around 3–5 hours, offering an unforgettable experience out at sea. While sightings are very likely during the season, encounters with wildlife are never fully guaranteed—making each trip a unique adventure.
Sea Turtle Conservation Project
Visit a dedicated sanctuary working to protect Sri Lanka’s endangered sea turtles. Learn about conservation efforts at the hatchery, where eggs are safely incubated, and see rescued turtles being rehabilitated before their release back into the ocean. A meaningful and educational experience for nature lovers.
Galle Dutch Fort
Step back in time at the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site shaped by Portuguese and Dutch influences. Surrounded by massive stone walls and overlooking the ocean, the fort features charming streets, colonial architecture, and a lively atmosphere.
Wander through narrow lanes lined with cafés, boutiques, and galleries, and experience the unique blend of history and modern life in one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic coastal towns.




Inclusions
- 11 nights accommodation at 3-4 star hotels
- breakfast and dinner
- Last night: dinner served at outside restaurants.
- Arrival and departure assistance at the airport
- Transportation by A/C vehicle on private basis with passenger insurance.
- Service of the English speaking chauffeur guide.
- Free sim card with data
- water bottles
- wi-fi
- All government taxes are included for above all
Exclusions
- Air fares and visa charges.
- Sightseeing entrance charges (unless specified).
- Lunch and dinner on the last day
- Any expenses on private basis
- travel insurance
Book now
Send us a request to discuss your individual needs and adjust the tour as you wished.
