09 Days in Sri lanka - From Ancient Fortresses to Pristine Beaches

Embark on a 9-day adventure in Sri Lanka, exploring ancient fortresses, pristine beaches, and breathtaking landscapes. Climb the Guient Rock Fortress, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, and witness the sacred Temple of the Tooth. Experience the beauty of the rolling green highlands and the stunning nine-arched bridge. Discover wildlife at a renowned national park and relax on the picturesque beaches of Mirissa. Start your Sri Lankan journey now!

Duration: 9 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

Airport - Colombo

Bandaranaike International Airport - Upon arrival by flight, proceed to the arrival terminal. Complete immigration and visa procedures, collect your luggage, and head to the arrival lounge via the green channel if you have no items to declare to customs. A representative from Apple vacation will greet you with a paging board displaying your name in the meeting area and introduce you to your English-speaking chauffeur guide, who will transfer you to your hotel in Colombo.

Colombo - Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka, boasts a rich history as a port on ancient east-west trade routes, successively governed by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. This heritage is evident in its architecture, blending colonial buildings with skyscrapers and shopping centers. The impressive Colombo National Museum, dedicated to Sri Lankan history, borders the expansive Viharamahadevi Park and its giant Buddha statue.

Colombo - Sigiriya

Colombo - After breakfast, you will be picked up from your Colombo hotel and transferred to Sigiriya.

Kurunegala - After a few hours of travel, stop at Kurunegala to refresh yourself before continuing to Sigiriya.

Ibbankatuwa Megalithic Tombs - Located five kilometers before Dambulla town on the Kurunegala-Dambulla Road, the Ibbankatuwa Ancient burial ground is marked by an archaeological department sign. The site, developed into a tourist attraction in 2017, is accessible by traveling about 500 meters from the main road.

Ederagala Wana Senasuna - Ederagala Wana Senasuna is a serene Buddhist temple in Dambulla, Matale District, Sri Lanka. Inscriptions in the caves date the temple back to the 2nd – 1st century B.C. It is located beside the Ambepussa – Kurunegala – Trincomalee (A006) Highway, just 6 km from Dambulla city, and can be reached within 15 minutes from Dambulla Cave Temple.

Sigiriya Museum - This museum offers a detailed diorama of the site, providing an excellent overview and explaining Sigiriya’s cultural significance beyond its natural beauty. It presents the theory that Sigiriya was a Buddhist monastery, although the prevailing view is that it was a palace or fortress. (Combine with Sigiriya fortress)

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - Rising dramatically from the central plains, Sigiriya’s rocky outcrop is one of Sri Lanka’s most striking sights. Near-vertical walls lead to a flat-topped summit with ruins of an ancient civilization, believed to be the heart of the short-lived kingdom of Kassapa. The summit offers breathtaking views over mist-covered forests in the early morning.

After descending from the rock, enjoy a taste of delicious Sri Lankan food.

Optional Tours

• Village safari - USD 30 - Includes a canoe ride, bull cart ride, tuk-tuk safari, and Sri Lankan food.

Pidurangala Rock - Adjacent to Sigiriya Rock, Pidurangala Rock offers the best views of Sigiriya Rock, being only slightly lower. It is a popular spot for sunrise, providing 360-degree views of the valleys and Sigiriya Rock.

Oakray Woodcarvings - Oak Ray Wood Carving features a comprehensive collection of wood carvings, from typical wooden elephant ornaments to intricately carved traditional masks. The ‘Oak Ray’ brand, known for catering to tourists’ hospitality needs, has expanded into handicrafts, becoming a popular place to find the perfect memento of your journey in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya - Kandy

Sigiriya - After breakfast, transfer to Kandy.

Rangiri Dambulla International Stadium - This 30,000-seat cricket stadium, the first and only international cricket pitch in Sri Lanka’s dry zone, is located in Dambulla on land leased from the Rangiri Dambulla Temple. The Dambulla Tank (reservoir) and Dambulla Rock are visible from the stadium.

Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre - Established in 1999 in the Dambulla Secretariat Division of Matale District, this wholesale market for vegetables and fruits allows for direct farmer participation in selling produce.

Golden Temple of Dambulla - One of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist destinations, Dambulla is rich in Buddhist history and spirituality, offering a unique experience even before reaching the city. (photo stop)

Dambulla Royal Cave Temple - Known as Jumbukola Vihara in the Mahavamsa (the main Pali Chronicle of Sri Lanka), the Dambulla Cave Temple is located about 47 miles northwest of Kandy on the main road to Anuradhapura. It is one of the island’s most extensive and well-preserved rock temples.

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show - A defining experience in Kandy, this performance features traditional Kandyan dance routines and costumes from across the country, including the famous ‘devil’ dances of the west coast.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - The golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of the Buddha. During puja (offerings or prayers), the heavily guarded room housing the tooth is open to devotees and tourists. The tooth is kept in a gold casket shaped like a dagoba (stupa), which contains a series of six dagoba caskets of diminishing size. The complex also includes smaller temples, shrines, and museums.

Kandy View Point - Climb the hill by Kandy Lake to reach Kandy viewpoint for an unbeatable view of the city. This popular tourist spot attracts many peddlers, though they often sell sub-par items. The area is also known for pickpocket activity, so keep an eye on your belongings. From the hill, you can enjoy great views over the lake and the city.

Kandy Lake - Also known as Kiri Muhuda or the Sea of Milk, Kandy Lake is an artificial lake in the heart of Kandy, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe next to the Temple of the Tooth. Over the years, it has been reduced in size and is now a protected lake with fishing banned. Legends and folklore surround the lake, including one that the small island at its center was used by the king’s harem for bathing and was connected to the palace by a secret tunnel.

Kandy - Ella By Train

Kandy - After breakfast at the hotel, transfer from Kandy to Peradeniya Railway Station to proceed to Ella by train.

Ella - Train journeys in Sri Lanka are cultural experiences, with the most scenic routes being highlights of your visit. The journey from Nanu Oya to Ella Train Station travels through man-made tunnels, beautiful mountains, and tea plantations in the hill country. The breathtaking scenery includes a green carpet of tea bushes with colorful sari-clad tea pickers. The journey takes 6 to 7 hours.

Ella Sightseeing

Ella - After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy sightseeing in Ella.

Nine Arches Bridge - The Nine Arch Bridge spans 91 meters and stands 24 meters high. Surrounded by dense jungle and agricultural land, it is a picturesque location. A forest thrives behind the railroad, and tea is grown below it.

Little Adam’s Peak View Point - Named after the sacred Adams Peak (Sri Pada), Little Adams Peak is 1141 meters high and attracts many travelers. The hike up the mountain offers panoramic views and takes you through lush green tea plantations, waterfalls, and paddy fields. Experience the flying Ravana Zipline activity.

Ravana’s Cave - Located about 2 km from Ella town and 11 km from Bandarawela, Ravana Cave is a small cave measuring about 50ft wide, 150ft long, and 60ft high. According to history, King Ravana used the cave to hide Princess Sita.

Demodara Loop - The Demodara railway line is a renowned engineering marvel. From the station, the railway line winds its way and comes directly under the station through a tunnel excavated inside a mountain.

Ella - Yala National Park - Mirissa/Unawatuna

Ella - After breakfast, transfer to Mirissa.

Yala National Park - Katagamuwa Entrance - Yala National Park offers the best opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse wildlife. Colorful storks can be seen at the lagoon shores, where crocodiles also rest. Peacocks parade in the woods, monkeys leap and chatter, and elephants roam the bush jungle. The park’s star attraction is the leopard, often seen crossing tracks and wandering into the thorny scrub jungle.

Mirissa Beach Break

Mirissa Beach - After breakfast, enjoy a full day of leisure at the hotel or beach. Walk on the beach and listen to the waves.

Beach Break

Mirissa - After breakfast, enjoy a full day of leisure at the hotel or beach. Get wet in the salty water and collect seashells as souvenirs.

Mirissa - Airport

Mirissa - After breakfast, transfer to the airport.

Bandaranaike International Airport - A private transfer from Mirissa to the airport will be arranged. You will be met at your hotel and transferred to the airport in time for your onward flight.

What's Included
  • 8 nights in comfortable accommodations
  • Daily breakfast and dinner included
  • Seasonal fruits and King Coconut refreshments
  • Complimentary daily water bottle (500ml)
  • Knowledgeable English-speaking driver-guide
  • Travel with ease in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Free WIFI onboard upon request
What's Not Included
  • Entrance fees For Sites
  • Gratuity For Driver & Guide
  • Optional Activities
  • Food & Drinks Other than Specified
Additional Information

Discover the amazing spots in Sri Lanka. First, visit the Anciant Guient Rock Fortress and climb to the top of the rock for a panoramic view. Next, visit the World Heritage Site of Dambulla Cave Temple. The Temple of the Tooth, also known as the Palace of the Sacred Tooth of the Temple, is a sacred temple complex that houses Lord Buddha’s sacred tooth relic, Sri Dalada Maligawa. in Evening Watch the Kandyan Cultural Show. The Ella train journey takes you higher and higher into the rolling green highlands, where the big tea farms are, and there are many beautiful hilltop villages and waterfalls to see. See the amazing construction of the nine-arched bridge. Safaris to see animals, birds, reptiles, and more are available at Sri Lanka’s most well-known wildlife park. Mirissa is an incredible beach destination in Sri Lanka and the largest fishing port on the South Coast.

  • Confirmation will be received t time of booking
  • This activity could be canceled due to extreme weather or unforeseen events. If canceled, you may book a different date or ask for a refund
  • Most travelers can participate
  • We request all customers carry the Vaccination card while traveling (Digitally or Physically)
  • littering & smoking is prohibited inside the vehicle
  • Bring a Passport or ID card, Comfortable Walking, shoes, Sunglasses, Sun hat
  • Children must be accompanied by an adult
  • Please do not wear strong scented perfume as animals are sensitive to odour
  • The exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
  • For 1 Person Single room, 2 Person Double Room, 3 Person Triple Room Respectively.
  • Alcohol will not be served by any hotel on Poya days (full moon) and other days prohibited by the Government.
  • Quench your thirst by stopping for a complimentary king coconut along the roadside.
  • Stop to enjoy some tropical/seasonal fruits during your journey.
  • Re-entry is not allowed after you leave the venue
  • Please respect and leave the plants and native wildlife untouched
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(14 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
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1 star
Wander42800974090
Aug 18, 2024
Best holiday Ever! love you guys - Firstly, I want to extend my sincere thanks to Jeev for the prompt response and exceptional service in customizing our holiday. You truly tailored the experience to our interests, ensuring we visited all the places we were excited about, and you even arranged special meals for my daughter, which we greatly appreciated. If you're considering travel to Sri Lanka or the Maldives, you can absolutely trust Apple Vacations. Their expertise and attention to detail left us with no doubts throughout the entire process. Our 9-day journey was made even more enjoyable with a comfortable vehicle, expertly driven by Thunu, and the knowledgeable guidance of Aaron. The hotel selections were outstanding, particularly Heritance Kandalama and Cinnamon Wild, which provided us with unforgettable stays.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Excursion57194914181
May 18, 2024
Our Trip to Sri Lanka was extremely fun and adventurous. Our guide and driver made sure we had the best time. - Amazing experience Our tour guide Aaron and driver Tissa were very helpful and went out of the way to show us everything in Sri Lanka They were so welcoming and friendly
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110tanvib
May 9, 2024
We went for a long trip but by the end of our journey we did not want to leave. That was our experience. - The entire trip was a lot of fun. We were taken to so many different places and all our requirements were fulfilled. Our guide Aron was very helpful and friendly. Overall an amazing experience.
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Apurvabhansali
May 8, 2024
It was like HOME AWAY FROM HOME - We had an awesome time. The hospitality the warmth I felt was fantabulous. Apple team from the start were very cooperative and helpful and selection of resorts and hotels were very nice. Aaron the guide and tissa the driver were just superb. The knowledge of the places and discounts at various places like excursions, safaris , temple visits were passed on to us and saved our money too which is commendable. We had excellent time and will strongly recommend to the ones reading my review to go blindly with this the above team. GOD bless them Apurva Bhansali India
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Legacy_29
Apr 6, 2024
A very nice trip . everything else was top notch . The driver and Guide was the icing on the cake - A very nice trip . Except for Kandy hotel and probably the specific train (goods extension) Nuwara eliya to Ella , everything else was top notch . There was no place where there was hiccup . The organizer (make my trip and apple holidays)and the guide /driver- Mr. Rohan( who was with us felt like a family member ) . At no place did we feel we were helpless ( except Kandy hotel). All the hotels were really courteous . A special mention to the Chef of Nuwara eliya hotel . Who prepared pepper Rasam on request with no additional charges . The staff of Raintree (Yale)who kept the breakfast counters open to adjust to the timings of safari trip to Yale . The Joe s hotel at Unatunwana and Bentota who managed extensive vegetarian dishes in buffet( based on communication) The Best Western hotel in Colombo who packed sandwiches( for our departure back at the airport) and managed a buffet with sufficient number of vegetarian items The Negombo hotel (Goldi sands)who took care in a good way And of course our Driver and Guide, Mr. Rohan, who knows exactly what to ask and what time it would be suited to go to one place .He is also a quick thinker ,a go getter and anticipates what can cause issues or delays( like getting the QR code permission) for visting one place .We wish him all the best and pray he gets the happiness and success he wishes for
Review provided by Tripadvisor
371mana
Jan 23, 2024
Recommend - Very good tour and perfect guide and driver cheap and fun and I recommend this tour to anyone who wants to come to sri Lanka
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499shaunr
Aug 22, 2023
Fantastic - and we are difficult customers - Fantastic end to our travels, great service, always on hand to help any problems and can't thank enough. We were on our last 9 days of our travels so decided to do a tour to remove any stress or having to think about planning and it was so worth it. Rexy our driver went out of his way to make sure we saw as much as possible during our time in Sri Lanka and Apple were always on hand via what's app should we need them. Experienced much more than what was on the itinerary so can't recommend enough! Excellent way to see the country especially as travel by yourself isn't as accessible and roads are difficult. I also wasn't sure how long to stay in each town/city so to have an itinerary planned for me was perfect
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Natalie
Aug 14, 2023
Nice adventure - I had a great time. Everything was organised very well and my guide was very accommodating to my wishes. I get very safe and well taken care of. The hotels were good quality and I have the feeling I really got to know Sri Lanka. Thank you to my guide Keerthe.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Muneesh_c
Apr 16, 2023
Well planned itinerary - We asked Apple Vacations to plan out our entire Sri Lanka trip for 10 days. Right from the time we landed till we left, after 10 days, everything was so well planned. All the hotels were clan and nice. The Guide , Budhika, was a very good driver and had immense knowledge of all the smaller stops and local places. I would urge everyone to ask for Budhika as a first choice of driver. The entire trip summarized all that Sri Lanka had to offer.
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Marcinp74
Apr 13, 2022
Best choice, great people. Very profesional - Great SERVICE and great people. It was a perfect adventure and we really enjoyed every płace that we stayed in. Very friendly and profesional staff. Quick respond to help us and fullfill any of our requests. We were their clients already two times. Once with group of 8 friends and second time with familly 2+2. Both trips were awesome.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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