Grand Adventure Tour Sri Lanka: Experience Wildlife, UNESCO Heritage & Beach Relaxation in 12 Days

Embark on a 12-day Grand Adventure Tour in Sri Lanka and experience wildlife, UNESCO heritage sites, and beach relaxation. Join 4x4 Jeep safaris, explore ancient wonders, visit tea plantations, and unwind on a stunning south beach.

Duration: 12 days
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights

AIRPORT PICKUP / NEGOMBO COASTAL CITY

Negombo - AYUBOWAN-! Welcome to Sri Lanka, a land like no other. Embark on 12 days of exploration, offering you the chance to experience UNESCO World Heritage sites, unique Sri Lankan culture, lush green tea estates, waterfalls in the hills, wildlife, thrilling adventures, and beautiful, remote beaches. Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, you’ll be greeted by the tour leader and transferred to your hotel. Your first destination is the coastal town of Negombo, renowned for its golden sandy beach, food, and entertainment. No activities are planned for the first day, allowing you to relax at Negombo beach or by the pool of your cozy hotel. In the evening, you can stroll along the seashore, enjoying the beautiful sunset and the pleasant atmosphere of Negombo beach.

Overnight stay at a seafront hotel in Negombo

KURUNEGALA KINGDOM / GOLDEN CAVE TEMPLE

Kurunegala - After a delicious breakfast with a hot cup of Sri Lankan tea or coffee, you’ll embark on a wonderful journey across the stunning Sri Lankan countryside towards Dambulla city, the central point of the island’s cultural triangle. En route, you’ll visit Elephant Rock Temple and Kurunegala Lake.

Dambulla Cave Temple - Upon arrival in Dambulla, visit the Golden Buddha Statue and the Royal Cave Temple (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE). Dambulla boasts the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. The rock towers 160 meters over the surrounding plains and houses five cave temples with some of the most unique and significant historical drawings.

Overnight stay at a nature-friendly resort in Dambulla

SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS / VILLAGE TOUR / PIDURANGALA

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - After breakfast, visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE). King Kasyapa (477 – 495 BC) built his palace on top of this rock and decorated its sides with colorful frescoes.

Habarana Lake - After visiting Sigiriya, enjoy a wonderful cultural village tour while exploring the beautiful countryside (INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE). The tour starts with a Bullock Cart ride, one of the oldest and primary transportation systems in Sri Lanka, still used in some villages. During the tour, you’ll enjoy a canoeing boat ride across the lake and a pleasant TukTuk ride before reaching the farmer’s house, where you’ll experience typical Sri Lankan countryside hospitality.

Pidurangala Rock - In the evening, if you’re up for it, join the Pidurangala rock hike (optional activity), a perfect spot for those seeking a non-touristic experience. This might be a rare opportunity to explore the hidden beauty of Sri Lanka. If you’re tired of overcrowded spots and noise, this is your ideal destination. There is no clear path to the top: steep paths and uneven steps give way to an expanse of boulders and crevices that climbers must navigate to reach the summit. Make sure to have mosquito spray if bites trouble you.

Overnight stay at a nature-friendly resort in Dambulla

SPICE GARDEN / HISTORICAL KANDY CITY

Matale Herbal and Spice Garden - After breakfast, visit the Matale Spice Garden (INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE).

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - Proceed towards Kandy, the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom. Set on a plateau surrounded by mountains, Kandy is home to tea plantations and biodiverse rainforests. Kandy is also famous for its sacred Buddhist sites, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE).

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show - In the evening, enjoy a walk around Kandy’s city center before engaging in a cultural dance show inspired by Sri Lankan arts, traditional dance, and cultural heritage (INCLUDED IN THE PACKAGE).

Overnight stay at a cozy mount view hotel in Kandy

ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE AT KITULGALA FOREST RESERVE

Royal Botanical Gardens - After breakfast, visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden, one of the best botanical gardens in Asia. Stop at: Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, which attracts 2 million visitors annually. It is renowned for its collection of orchids and includes more than 4000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. The total area of the botanical garden is 147 acres.

Kitulgala - Proceed to Kitulgala and enjoy an authentic local lunch at your resort before starting some adventure activities in the forest. Kitulgala is a major ecotourism venue in Sri Lanka, a paradise for adventure lovers. The package includes river rafting, water sliding, and a confidence jump. After all the exciting adventure experiences, finish off the day with a delicious BBQ dinner. You’ll stay in a nature-friendly small resort (River view air-conditioned room) but without deluxe facilities.

Overnight stay at a nature-friendly mount resort in Kitulgala

NUWARA ELIYA TEA PLANTATIONS / WATERFALLS

Pedro Tea Factory - After breakfast, enjoy a wonderful journey towards the Sri Lankan tea region of Nuwara Eliya. Visit a Tea Plantation, as tea and tourism are inseparable. Take a tour of the cold and misty hills, boasting lush green tea plantations. Step into a tea factory processing the prestigious brand of Ceylon Tea to observe a rich tradition kept alive to date. As you observe the hissing and swishing of machines and inhale the heavenly scent, end your day in style with a perfectly blended cup of pure Ceylon Tea.

St Clair’s Falls - St. Clair’s Falls is one of the widest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, commonly known as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka.” It is one of six waterfalls affected by the Upper Kotmale Hydropower Project.

Nuwara Eliya - Nuwara Eliya is often referred to as “Little England” because many buildings in this city retain their British colonial period charm, such as the Queen’s Cottage, the General’s House, the Grand Hotel, the Hill Club, and the Town Post Office. Located in the mountains, this amazing town has a cool climate all year long. In the afternoon, walk through Nuwara Eliya city center and the fruit and vegetable market. Try some snacks around lanes filled with street foods and bustling local eateries.

Overnight stay at a modern cottage in Nuwara Eliya

TRAIN JOURNEY INTO THE MOUNTAIN / MINI ADAM’S PEAK

Nanu Oya - In the morning, take a spectacular train journey from Nanu-oya to Ella, known as one of the most picturesque hill country train journeys in the world (Ticket class category is subject to availability).

Mini Adams Peak - Upon arrival in Ella, get off at the station and explore the Ella village, a favorite hill country village due to its wonderful nature-friendly location. Rawana waterfall is a popular sightseeing attraction in Ella, ranking as one of the widest falls in the country, measuring approximately 25 m (82 ft). Another attraction is the Nine Arch Bridge, a massive bridge built entirely of solid rocks, bricks, and cement without using a single piece of steel, commissioned in 1921. Ella is great for walking and climbing, with its most famous hiking route being “Little Adam’s Peak.”

Overnight stay at a cozy mount view hotel in Ella Village

RAVANA WATERFALL / YALA 4X4 JEEP SAFARI

Ravana Ella Falls - After breakfast, depart from Ella to Yala. En route, visit Ravana waterfall, one of the most popular sightseeing attractions in Ella. Enjoy the beauty of nature at Ravana waterfalls.

Tissamaharama - Drive towards Yala National Park, the largest and most stunning national park in Sri Lanka. Thanks to a river running through it, Yala National Park is divided into two sections. The river makes crossing to the other side difficult, so Yala is treated as two separate parks. This doesn’t change the fantastic offerings! Encompassing diverse ecosystems, the park has an impressive variety of wildlife, including sloth bears, leopards, and colorful birds. Enjoy a 4x4 jeep ride searching for leopards hanging on trees or whispering through the bushes, crocodiles patrolling the river, or wild elephants drinking water and playing under the evening sunset.

Overnight stay at a safari resort in Yala

IT’S TIME FOR THE BEACH

Mirissa Beach - After a fantastic journey through the mountains and waterfalls, you have finally arrived at the world-famous beachside of Sri Lanka. Mirissa/Dickwella is a delightful sandy beach that was a well-kept secret in the past, but now more restaurants and pubs are opening up to visitors. It is characterized by white sands and coconut palms growing right from the edge of the sea, as if in imitation of a postcard of the perfect tropical beach. Upon arrival at your hotel, grab a towel to relax on the beach while enjoying a cocktail or a chilled beer under the shade of a beach umbrella.

Overnight stay at a cozy seafront hotel in Mirissa/Weligama

CURRY COOKING CLASS / BEACH RELAX

Mirissa Beach - In the morning, experience a local cookery demonstration. Traditional Sri Lankan foods are very delicious and world-famous, but cooking them yourself adds another dimension to the experience. Discover the unique flavors of the local cuisine while learning about traditional Sri Lankan culture and cooking secrets.

Mirissa Beach - In the evening, enjoy the stunning sunset scenery and the pleasant seaside atmosphere. You may also visit a seafront restaurant to try some authentic Sri Lankan seafood—a wonderful crab curry is likely to be on the menu.

Overnight stay at a beach seafront hotel in Mirissa/Weligama

HISTORIC GALLE FORT / MADU RIVER

Galle - After breakfast, your tour leader will drive you along the southwest coast towards Galle, a city well known for its Fort (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE). It is where classic Dutch and British architecture meets a tropical setting, creating a vivid atmosphere. Walk through the streets, listening to the creaks of wooden saloon doors, and observe how European architecture mingles with South Asian traditions, attracting cultural enthusiasts globally. The historical Galle Lighthouse stands proudly on the southeast tip of the fort.

Madu Ganga Biodiversity Area - Next, enjoy a Madu River Safari, a relaxing trip with plenty of interesting sights. You’ll pass dozens of tiny islands forested with mangroves, view old temples, and watch locals cultivating cinnamon. Madu River is Sri Lanka’s second-largest wetland, consisting of 64 islands, including two main islands.

Bentota Beach - Enjoy your evening leisurely at your beachfront hotel in Bentota/Hikkaduwa, vibrant tourist destinations along the southern coast of Sri Lanka.

Overnight stay at a beach resort in Bentota/Hikkaduwa

COLOMBO CITY TOUR / AIRPORT DROP

Colombo City Centre - After breakfast, visit Sri Lanka’s capital city of Colombo, which has an interesting history dating back to the fifth century. Even in ancient times, it was an important port city in the East-West sea trade. Nowadays, it has become a bustling modern town with a unique atmosphere. The colorful streets, restaurants, and modern shopping malls attract hordes of locals and tourists alike. In Colombo, you have the opportunity to visit the city’s most highlighted places and do some last-minute shopping. You may also visit a famous and internationally renowned restaurant in Colombo to end your trip with an unforgettable meal.

Colombo - Proceed to the airport in time for your flight or we’ll drop you at your hotel in Colombo/Negombo to end this wonderful tour across the island.

What's Included
  • Free airport pick-up and drop-off service available 24/7
  • Travel comfortably in a private modern air-conditioned vehicle
  • Indulge in local culture with a village tour and cookery demonstration
  • Savor daily meals including breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Explore natural wonders with treks to Mini Adam’s Peak and visits to Nine Arch Bridge & Ravana Waterfall
  • Enjoy a scenic train journey into the mountains
  • Witness a traditional cultural dancing show
  • Experience the thrill of river rafting in Kitulgala
  • Refresh with a complimentary bottle of water per person each day
  • Shop like a local in the Nuwara Eliya markets
  • Learn about tea production with a visit to a tea factory and estate
  • Discover the flavors of Sri Lanka with a local curry cooking demonstration
  • No hidden charges – includes government tax
  • Stay informed with an English-speaking chauffeur guide for the entire tour
What's Not Included
  • Any entrance/excursions fees not stated as included
  • Air Fare, Visa and Travel Insurance (On request)
  • Late check-outs & early check-in charges are excluded
  • Any sort of personal expenses
Additional Information

Immerse yourself in an authentic Lonely Planet experience, gaining unique insight from local experts while enjoying the freedom and seclusion to traverse at your leisure. Experience awe-inspiring 4x4 jeep safaris through magnificent national parks, the natural habitat of Asian elephant herds—and don’t miss the captivating sight of a leopard in the wild. Delve into the wonders of the UNESCO World Heritage Sites, like the architectural marvel of Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress and the gilded Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy. Journey through the chilly and foggy heights, adorned with verdant carpets of tea plantations, and pause at a tea factory to learn about the tea-making process. Take it easy at the exquisite southern beaches, indulging in thrilling sea expeditions or unwinding with a cocktail under a palm tree.

Cancellation Policy

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

Customer Ratings
4.9
(33 Ratings)
5 stars
4 stars
3 stars
2 stars
1 star
Constanzer739
Jul 26, 2024
Unforgettable experience! - Amazing trip throug a wonderful country full of mindblowing nature and friendly people! This tour hits on all the main attractions and gives you a taste of every aspect of Sri Lankas beauty. Perfect for gaining energy after stressfull workdays at home. Our guide Udara was absolutely perfect. He is a save driver, very pleasant, polite and willing to make our trip the best experience possible! He was very informativ about the country, professional at all times and a very good person with a high level of English. The tour was thoughtfully planned with plenty of culture, nature and joyfull moments we will never forget! I highly recommend Udara and BH- Lanka Tours for a top-notch travel experience!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
468johannest
Jul 24, 2024
Nice destination, best guide, enjoyable tour - We traveld 12 days in Sri Lanka with BH Lanka and Nalin Dissanayake as guide. We had a very enjoyable time. Nalin was the perfect assistent and driver. We got lots of interesting information and saw such beautyful spots and countryside. The accommandations were nice. Nalin was at our side when needed, also gave us space if wanted. Everytime our vacation experiences and wellbeeing comes first for him. Total recomandation for BH Lanka and Nalin Dissanayake.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Joanaslb
Jul 11, 2024
AMAZING SRI LANKA 😀😀😀😀 - Amazing experience in Sri Lanka with BH LANKA TOURS : our guide Chintakha Silva was 7 ********: always available to attend our needs , remembering us of our personal items so many times forgotten 😀changing the hotel when we didn’t like it 😀😀😀😀 Explaining all the stories on the Portuguese presence in the country and so many others : he knew it all and we even learn a few words on Sri Lankan language 😀😀😀😀😌 Thank you very much BH LANKA Tours for this amazing experience
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Brentsn7614xg
Jul 9, 2024
Well rounded, excellent service, great value. - A wonderful variation of very memorable experiences, show casing the key elements of Sri Lankas cultural, historic, religious, wildlife, art and way of living. The itinerary (we did everything on the list and some extras) is full of interesting sites with a good blend of active opportunities, accomodations were all much higher quality than expected and majority of the included meals were excellent. The most outstanding feature of our grand Sri Lanka tour was our host and guide Nalin Dissanayake! His knowledge of Sri Lanka and even more global topics is amazing, he was able to answer all of my nagging questions with confidence and was extremely courteous, taking care of our every request, always going the extra mile to keep us entertained and satisfied(including impromptu hiking, coffee stops and even to martial arts practice), always with a smile and a well rounded sense of humour.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Wannabeefarmer
Jul 7, 2024
Thankyou so much! - We had a fantastic time- especially due to our wonderful tour guide Sidath. He was so thoughtful- even going out of his way to organise 2 personalised cakes for our 30th Anniversary and my husbands 60th birthday…. And then framed memorable photos of us from our trip. He also really looked after one of our members who got very sick/ ended up in hospital. ( which by the way was quite cheap! Private hospital. $70 AU for a specialist +3 scans done on the spot! Incredible. Super clean/ staff amazing!)He also always looked out for us at the busy marketplaces and made sure we didnt get ripped of.. By the end - Sidath felt like family. All hotels we stayed at superseded our expectations .I highly recommend BH Lanka tours
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jacyb01
Jul 5, 2024
Janaka (BH Lanka) made our experience even more memorable. - Janaka, our tour guide was absolutely BRILLIANT. So professional, safe, helpful, accommodating and full of knowledge. Totally recommend BH Lanka and would personally request Janaka. We loved Sri Lanka, this was such a fantastic experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Doga2019
Jul 4, 2024
An unforgettable holiday in Sri Lanka - First I want to thank BH Lanka Tours for providing us with the best guide and rider, Janaka! The whole tour was well organized from the beginning, everything worked out fine.. and we were actually not aware of how diverse and beautiful Sri Lanka is! We always felt safe and in good hands.. we have seen so much beautiful.. and all wishes were always taken care of by Jana! Although we had a different hotel every day, the trip was made as pleasant as possible! The Heritance Negombo concludes, where we review the great experience again! Thank you!!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Quest790372
Jun 29, 2024
Adventure and Relaxation Combo - This tour exceeded my expectations. Our tour guide was very welcoming and knowledgeable. The tour offered a variety of different activities with the added extra on some days. We were very fortunate to see a leopard and a mother and baby bear on the safari. The train ride was full of singing and laughter with some of the local children. I highly recommend this tour for all ages.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Samanthaml7078fs
Jun 28, 2024
Amazing Time !! A MUST DO TOUR !! - Had an absolute amazing time with guide Nisantha and 3 girlfriends. Nish was very courteous, respectful and accommodating to any request we had (eg. Extra shopping, detours, etc etc). Couldn’t have asked for a nicer guide… We experienced everything on the itinerary and more. Safaris were amazing, saw the sloth bears, leopard, elephants and many more smaller animals. Elephant sanctuary was also a must do. White water rafting was great, as was the spice tour that was very informative and included a massage at the end. Train ride another highlight with a bunch of school kids on train singing and drumming - made the time go very quick. Temples just beautiful and interesting to learn about the history of Sri Lanka. Also loved the views, tea gardens, hikes up a few small mountains, southern coastline got a surf in. Accommodation great and we did the standard rooms, some felt 5 star. Food, ate way too much but yum!! Sri Lankan people very friendly, no hassling for you to purchase souvenirs. I do think this place will turn into a major tourist attraction in years to come, we got there at a quiet time. Weather was perfect, couple rainy days but didn’t interrupt itinerary at all. Only thing I wouldn’t go back for is the big city of Colombo- way too busy for me. And also the turtle hatchery, found it a little sad with some big turtles in small tanks. Get over there and ask for Nish and BH Lanka tours.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Andy
May 18, 2024
Amazing 12 day tour of Sri Lanka - 12 Day Classic and Cultural Tour Wow! What an amazing experience. We have done and seen so many wonderful things in just 12 days. Highlights include: Climbing Lion Rock Sigiriya, cycling through ancient Polonnaruwa, an elephant Jeep safari, amazing cave temple, beautiful botanical gardens, cultural dance show, tea plantation, mountain train journey, Yala National Park Safari, Galle Fort, Madu River Boat ride .... and much much more. All hotels were of a high standard with lovely food. Our guide Kani was excellent - very informative, friendly and helpful, nothing was too much trouble for him and he really helped make our trip a wonderful, amazing experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Select Date and Tickets
up to 14 guests
2 Adult
September 2024
Sun
Mon
Tue
Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Today