Explore 16+ iconic sites in Sri Lanka in 8 days. Discover cultural gems, scenic beauty, and thrilling adventures with our private, air-conditioned tour.
Explore 16+ iconic sites in Sri Lanka in 8 days. Discover cultural gems, scenic beauty, and thrilling adventures with our private, air-conditioned tour.
Pick up - Yapahuwa - Anuradhapura
Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom - The journey from Katunayake to Yapahuwa covers a distance of 120 km, taking approximately 3 hours. Yapahuwa is a historic royal fortress in Sri Lanka, dating back to 1272. During King Bhuvenakabahu’s reign, Yapahuwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka. This rock fortress, rising about…
Pick up - Yapahuwa - Anuradhapura
Yapahuwa Ancient Kingdom - The journey from Katunayake to Yapahuwa covers a distance of 120 km, taking approximately 3 hours. Yapahuwa is a historic royal fortress in Sri Lanka, dating back to 1272. During King Bhuvenakabahu’s reign, Yapahuwa served as the capital of Sri Lanka. This rock fortress, rising about 100 meters from the base, is captivating with its scenic surroundings. Key attractions include the staircase leading to the rock, lion stone sculptures, carvings by the staircase, and breathtaking views over the fortress. The visit will last 1 hour and 30 minutes. (The entrance ticket of 500 LKR per person is not included in our price)
Anuradhapura - After exploring Yapahuwa, the tour continues from Yapahuwa to Anuradhapura, with a travel time of around 1 hour and 30 minutes over a distance of about 75 km. Upon arrival in Anuradhapura, guests can check into their hotel and relax (hotel price not included in our package). Depending on time availability and guest preference, sightseeing in the ancient city of Anuradhapura can be done on the evening of Day 1 or the morning of Day 2. A minimum of 3 hours is required for a comprehensive tour of Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura - Sightseeing in the Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Explore the first man-made city and the initial ancient capital of Sri Lanka. This area is home to large tanks, monuments, and ruins, and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Although not densely populated today, it was once the most populated area. (Entrance ticket cost of 25 USD per person is not included in our package price)
Sightseeing includes:
- Abhayagiri
- Aukana Buddha statue
- Ashokaramaya
- Sri Maha Bodhiya
- Thuparamaya
- Ruwanveliseya
- Jetavanaramaya
- Samadhi Buddha statue
- Isurumuniya
- Twin ponds
- Half-moon stone
-
Stone Bridge
Even a full day of sightseeing in Anuradhapura will leave more to explore. In half a day, the most significant sites can be covered. (For those deeply interested in history, an expert guide is available for an additional 20 USD)
Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Sigiriya
Mihintale - It is recommended to depart from Anuradhapura to Mihintale around 8:00 AM. The travel distance is approximately 30 km, taking about 30 minutes. Mihintale is part of Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle and holds great significance in Buddhist history. It is the site where King Devanampiyatissa met Buddhist monk Mihidu, marking the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka. The best times to visit are in the morning or during sunset. Main attractions include a magnificent 40ft stupa, ancient Buddhist monastery monuments, 1840 stone step stairways, an alms hall, relic house, Black Water Pond, and Kantaka Chetiya. After 3 hours of exploration, the tour proceeds to Sigiriya. (Entrance ticket cost to Mihintale is 1000 LKR per person, not included in our package price)
Habarana - From Mihintale to Habarana, the travel distance is around 60 km, taking about 1 hour. Experience Sri Lankan rural life with a Habarana village tour, starting with a bullock cart ride along the village road to the lake, followed by a catamaran ride. Afterward, visit a local farmhouse for a traditional cooking demonstration and enjoy a Sri Lankan lunch buffet. (Activity cost of 20 USD per person is not included in our package) This activity takes about 1 to 2 hours.
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - At 2:00 PM, begin the walk to Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress. Sigiriya was designated a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1982. A visit to the Sigiriya Museum before exploring the fortress will enhance understanding of its history and significance. Built by Sinhalese King Kashyapa in the fifth century, the fortress offers a fascinating climb of 590ft, revealing historical remains. Key features include the Lion Gate, Lion’s Paw, Frescoes, Mirror Wall, spiral stairs, Water Garden, and pool. Stay for the sunset to enjoy stunning views from the top. Afterward, proceed to the hotel for an overnight stay. (Entrance ticket cost to Sigiriya Fortress is 30 USD, not included in our package price) Day 2 overnight stay around Sigiriya.
Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Minneriya - Sigiriya
Polonnaruwa - Head to Polonnaruwa, with a travel time of 1 hour and 30 minutes over a distance of about 60 km. It is recommended to start sightseeing early in the morning (depart from Sigiriya around 8:00 AM). Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, was declared a city by King Vijayabahu I in 1070 AD. Main attractions include Gal Viharaya, Kirivehera, Medirigiriya, Nissanka Malla’s Palace, Parakramabahu’s Palace, Parakrama Samudraya, Pothgul Vehera, Rankot Vehera, Royal Palace Complex, Satmahal Prasada, Thuparamaya, and Vatadage. A minimum of 4 hours is needed for sightseeing. Cycling tours are popular in Polonnaruwa, and experiencing the city by bicycle is recommended. (Cycling rental starts at 5 USD per bicycle, and entrance ticket cost to the site is 25 USD per person, not included in our package price)
Minneriya National Park - After Polonnaruwa, proceed to Minneriya National Park for a safari experience. Travel time is 1 hour, covering a distance of 40 km. The safari starts around 3:30 PM. (Entrance ticket and safari jeep cost not included in the package price) Return to Sigiriya for an overnight stay in the evening.
Sigiriya - Dambulla - Matale - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
Golden Temple of Dambulla - Travel from Sigiriya to Dambulla, a 30-minute journey over 20 km. The Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka, featuring 157 colorful statues and Buddhist mural paintings covering 2,100 sqm. The paintings narrate the story of Lord Buddha. Buddhist monks have inhabited the caves since the 3rd century BCE, making it a remarkable site for exploring living Buddhist rituals. The activity takes about 2 to 2.5 hours. The entrance ticket costs 5 USD, not included in the package price. After visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple, proceed to Kandy.
Matale - Matale Spice Cooking Class - On the way to Kandy, participate in a Sri Lankan cooking class and lunch. After the cooking demonstration, explore the Matale Spice & Herbal Garden to learn about the natural herbs used in Sri Lankan spices. The activity lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours. The cooking class costs 25 USD per person, not included in our package price.
Kandy - Arrive in Kandy before 4:00 PM. The journey from Dambulla to Kandy takes 2 hours and 30 minutes, covering 80 km. The Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in Kandy, located in the royal palace complex of the former kingdom, housing the relic of Buddha’s tooth. Historically, the relic has been significant in local politics, as it is believed that whoever holds the relic governs the country. Kandy, the last capital of Sri Lankan kings, is a UNESCO World Heritage site partly due to the temple. Attractions include the Art & Craft Center, Gem Museum, Batik & Silk Center, Kandy Lake, and an evening cultural dance show, depending on time availability and guest interest. After exploring Kandy, proceed to Nuwara Eliya. (Entrance and activity ticket fees not included in the package price) The journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya may start in the late evening.
Nuwara Eliya - Horton’s Plain Return - Nuwara Eliya - Train Ride - Ella
Horton Plains National Park - Depart from the hotel at 5:00 AM to reach Horton’s Plain. By 11:00 - 11:30 AM, the area is often covered in mist, obscuring visibility, so it is advisable to start the visit by 6:00 AM from the gate. A 4-wheel jeep or van will be used for the trip from Nuwara Eliya to the entrance gate. Tourists should wear light warm clothing (jacket, hat, and shoes) for the long walk in Horton Plains National Park. The park is the headwaters of the Mahaweli, Kelani, and Walawe rivers in Sri Lanka. The sheer precipice of World’s End and Baker’s Falls are popular attractions. Horton Plains is rich in biodiversity, with many endemic species. (Entrance ticket costs 15 USD, not included in the package price) A minimum of 4 hours is needed for the activity. Afterward, return to Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwara Eliya - Relax at the hotel for a few hours.
Sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya
Depending on time availability and guest interest, sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya is suggested. Main attractions include Gregory’s Lake Park, the Old Post Office, and Victoria Garden.
Nanu Oya - At 1:30 PM, proceed to Nanu Oya railway station. The train departs at 2:30 PM from Nanu Oya to Ella, arriving at 5:00 PM. Enjoy a scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella.
Relax in Ella in the evening.
Ella to Mirissa
Little Adam’s Peak View Point - Begin an easy walk to Little Adam’s Peak in Ella at 7:00 AM. The path winds through lush green tea plantations, culminating in a stunning landscape view of Ella and the southern part of the country. The activity takes 2 hours.
Visit the scenic Nine Arch Bridge in Ella after Little Adam’s Peak. (Cost of the tuk-tuk ride to the bridge is not included in the package price)
Ella - Discover how tea is processed, from plucking the leaves to packaging. The tea factories maintain their colonial charm amidst beautiful surroundings. The activity lasts about 1.5 hours.
Ravana Ella Falls - Ravana Waterfall is one of the widest in Sri Lanka. Visitors can walk over some rocks for a closer look, but caution is advised on slippery surfaces. During the dry season, Ravana Falls is perfect for a refreshing splash.
Mirissa Beach - In the afternoon, travel from Ella to Mirissa Beach in the southern part of the country. The journey takes 3 hours and 30 minutes, covering 180 km. Arrive in Mirissa in the evening and enjoy leisure time.
Mirissa is renowned for seasonal whale watching (November to April), surfing, seafood restaurants, and its golden sandy beach.
Mirissa - Galle - Mirissa
Mirissa Beach - After breakfast, enjoy leisure time at Mirissa Beach.
Galle Fort - Travel from Mirissa to Galle Fort, a 1-hour journey covering 30 km. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and fortified by the Dutch from 1649 to the 17th century, Galle Fort is now a vibrant area with a diverse population. Due to its heritage value, UNESCO has listed Galle Fort as a World Heritage site. Main attractions include Galle Lighthouse, All Saints’ Church, Meeran Mosque, Dutch Reformed Church, Moon Bastion with Clocktower, Sun Bastion from the west, Triton Bastion, Flagrock Bastion, the main gate to the fort, the old gate to the fort, fascinating boutique shops, and a variety of restaurants.
Return to Mirissa in the evening and relax at the hotel.
Mirissa to Departure Flight
Katunayake - In the morning, the tour departs from Mirissa to Katunayake for the departure flight. The journey from Mirissa to Katunayake takes 3 hours and 40 minutes, covering 180 km.
Arrive at the airport 2 hours before the flight departure, marking the end of the Sri Lanka tour.
Depending on customer requirements, drop-offs can be arranged at hotels in Colombo, Katunayake, or Negombo instead of Katunayake Airport.
- Private transportation
- English speaking professional chauffeur for 08 days
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Breakfast
- Highway ticket charges, Fuel, Taxes, service charges, Vehicle insurance, Expenses of the chauffeur
- Paging & Welcome on arrival to Sri Lanka airport [According to the booking basis]
- All transfers by vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary
- Private transportation
- English speaking professional chauffeur for 08 days
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Breakfast
- Highway ticket charges, Fuel, Taxes, service charges, Vehicle insurance, Expenses of the chauffeur
- Paging & Welcome on arrival to Sri Lanka airport [According to the booking basis]
- All transfers by vehicle as mentioned in the itinerary
- Meals & Hotel accommodation
- Personal Expenses
- Flight ticket or Tourist visa
- Entrance ticket per person Yapahuwa ancient kingdom 500 LKR
- Entrance ticket per person Anuradhapura UNESCO world heritage site 25 USD (With out site guide fee)
- Entrance ticket per person Mihintale Buddhist monastery 1000 LKR (with out site guide fee)
- Activity cost…
- Meals & Hotel accommodation
- Personal Expenses
- Flight ticket or Tourist visa
- Entrance ticket per person Yapahuwa ancient kingdom 500 LKR
- Entrance ticket per person Anuradhapura UNESCO world heritage site 25 USD (With out site guide fee)
- Entrance ticket per person Mihintale Buddhist monastery 1000 LKR (with out site guide fee)
- Activity cost per person Habarana village tour cooking demo with lunch 20 USD
- Entrance ticket per person Sigiriya Lion rock fortress 30 USD (with out site guide fee)
- Entrance ticket per person Polonnaruwa heritage site 25 USD (With out site guide fee)
- Activity cost per person Bicycle rent in Polonnaruwa 5 USD
- Entrance ticket with Jeep per person in Minneriya safari 85 USD
- Entrance ticket per person Dambulla rock cave temple 150 LKR
- Activity cost per person in Matale Cooking class with Lunch 25 USD
- Entrance ticket per person Temple of the tooth relic in Kandy 2000 LKR (without site guide fee)
- Entrance ticket per person Cultural dancing show in Kandy 5 USD
- Entrance ticket per person Horton plain national park 15 USD (without side guide fee)
- Activity ticket cost per person for the Train ride from Nanuoya to Ella is 200 LKR (3rd class)
We are covering more than 16 sightseeing activities with this tour itinerary. This itinerary is suitable only for travelers who love to see the maximum number of places within 8 days. Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Galle fort are the cultural and heritage sites we cover with the tour. Nuwara Eliya, Horton’s plain, Ella,…
We are covering more than 16 sightseeing activities with this tour itinerary. This itinerary is suitable only for travelers who love to see the maximum number of places within 8 days. Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, Galle fort are the cultural and heritage sites we cover with the tour. Nuwara Eliya, Horton’s plain, Ella, Scenic train ride, Little adam’s peak, Ravana waterfall are hill country natural scenic beautiful sightseeing with tour. Udawalawe national park and Horton’s plain national park are the main adventure attractions.
- We have not mentioned price for infant and cost for infant will mention separate
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.