Sri Lanka 12 Day Tour Through Nature and Culture

12 days (approximately)
Pickup offered
Offered in: English

Explore the wonders of Sri Lanka on a captivating 12-day tour that reveals the island's rich history and natural beauty. Begin in the charming fishing town of Negombo, then journey to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the sacred city of Kandy. Experience the lush landscapes of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, and unwind on the stunning southern coast in Galle and Colombo. This tour offers a blend of cultural encounters, wildlife safaris, and one of the world's most picturesque train rides, all while enjoying comfortable accommodations and private transport with an expert guide.

- 12-day comprehensive private tour across diverse Sri Lankan landscapes
- Visit key attractions including Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Kandy
- Experience local culture through village tours and wildlife safaris
- Travel in comfort with private transport and an English-speaking guide

What's Included

All government taxes and service charges
Private air-conditioned vehicle
English-speaking chauffeur guide
Accommodation
Meals

Meeting and pickup

Pickup points
You can choose a pickup location at checkout (multiple pickup locations are available).
Pickup details:

Travelers should provide flight numbers and arrival times in advance to ensure timely pickup. The driver/guide will wait at the airport arrivals area holding a sign with your name. Pickup service includes assistance with luggage and guidance to your private air-conditioned vehicle. If your flight is delayed, the guide will adjust the pickup time accordingly. Child seats are available upon request — please inform us in advance if needed.

Itinerary

Duration: 12 days (approximately)
    Day 1

    Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka | Welcome to Negombo

    1 stop
  • 1
    Negombo

    Ayubowan! (May you live long). Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, Meet and greet by a Vision of Travel representative and transfer you to Negombo, a charming beach town near the airport. Relax after your flight or enjoy an optional boat ride along the Dutch Canal, passing coconut palms, fishing villages, and tropical birdlife — a peaceful introduction to Sri Lanka. • Meet and greet at Bandaranaike International Airport. • Transfer to your hotel in Negombo. • Relax after your flight. • Optional (depending on arrival time): Afternoon Dutch Canal Boat Tour. Overnight Stay: Negombo

    1 day Admission ticket free
  • Day 2

    Day 2 – Negombo → Sigiriya | Cultural Triangle Adventure

    3 stops
  • 2
    Dambulla Cave Temple

    After breakfast, drive toward Sigiriya, located in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, home to the island’s most treasured ancient wonders. Stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) — a vast cave complex with 150 Buddha statues and vibrant wall paintings dating back over 2,000 years. • Visit Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 3

    Later, unwind at your hotel and enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage for complete relaxation. • Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic Massage in the afternoon.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 4
    Sigiriya

    Overnight: Sigiriya

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 3

    Day 3 – Explore Sigiriya | Ancient Kingdoms & Elephant Safari

    4 stops
  • 5
    Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress

    Begin your day climbing the world-famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also called Lion Rock, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. Alternatively, hike Pidurangala Rock for a quieter panoramic view of Sigiriya at sunrise or sunset.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 6
    Sigiriya

    Then experience rural life on a village tour — ride a bullock cart, cross a lake by catamaran, and cook a local lunch with a village family.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 7
    Minneriya National Park

    In the afternoon, head to Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for an exciting elephant safari, where you’ll witness herds of elephants in their natural habitat.

    4 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 8
    Sigiriya

    Overnight: Sigiriya

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 4

    Day 4 – Sigiriya → Kandy | Temples & Traditions

    4 stops
  • 9

    After breakfast, travel to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. Stop at a Spice and Herbal Garden to learn about the healing power of Ceylon spices like cinnamon and cardamom.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 10
    Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

    In Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist temples in the world.

    4 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 11
    Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show

    End the day with a vibrant Kandyan Cultural Dance Show featuring traditional costumes and drumming.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 12
    Kandy

    Overnight: Kandy

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 5

    Day 5 – Discover Kandy | Gardens, Temples & City Charm

    3 stops
  • 13
    Royal Botanical Gardens

    Start with a visit to Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, home to 4,000+ species of plants including orchids and towering palms. Continue to the Gem Museum, where you can see the island’s precious gems and even buy one as a keepsake.

    5 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 14
    Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya

    Later, head to Bahirawakanda Temple, where a giant Buddha statue offers stunning panoramic views of the city — especially at sunset.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 15
    Kandy

    Spend your evening relaxing by Kandy Lake or exploring the local markets. Overnight: Kandy

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 6

    Day 6 – Kandy → Nuwara Eliya | The Little England of Sri Lanka

    5 stops
  • 16
    Ambuluwawa Tower

    Travel through mist-covered hills and endless tea estates to reach Nuwara Eliya, fondly known as Little England for its colonial charm. Visit the Ambuluwawa Tower, a spiraling white tower with 360° mountain views.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 17
    Ramboda Waterfall

    • Visit waterfalls along the way.

    1 hour Admission ticket not included
  • 18

    Then stop at a tea plantation and factory to learn about world-famous Ceylon Tea and enjoy a freshly brewed cup.

    2 hours Admission ticket included
  • 19
    Nuwara Eliya

    Explore Gregory Lake, old colonial buildings, and scenic parks surrounded by rolling hills. • Enjoy a Nuwara Eliya City Tour.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 20
    Nuwara Eliya

    Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 7

    Day 7 – Nuwara Eliya → Ella | Scenic Train Journey

    1 stop
  • 21
    Ella

    Embark on one of the world’s most beautiful train rides from Nanu Oya to Ella. Admire emerald tea gardens, waterfalls, and misty valleys as you travel through tunnels and mountain slopes — an experience you’ll never forget. Upon arrival, relax at your hotel with sweeping mountain views. Overnight: Ella

    8 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 8

    Day 8 – Explore Ella | Hiking & Waterfalls

    3 stops
  • 22
    Nine Arches Bridge

    Start your morning at the Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of British-era engineering nestled among lush green hills.

    3 hours Admission ticket free
  • 23
    Little Adam's Peak View Point

    Then take a gentle hike to Little Adam’s Peak, offering breathtaking views of the Ella Gap.

    2 hours Admission ticket free
  • 24

    Later, unwind at Ravana Pool Club or visit Ravana Falls for a refreshing dip.

    3 hours Admission ticket not included
  • Day 9

    Day 9 – Ella → Galle | Journey to the Southern Coast

    1 stop
  • 25
    Galle

    Leave the hill country behind and travel toward Galle, stopping at Ravana Falls along the way. Arrive in Galle, a beautiful coastal city filled with Dutch-colonial charm, palm-lined beaches, and historic architecture. Spend your evening watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean. Overnight: Galle

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 10

    Day 10 – Explore Galle & Southern Wonders

    4 stops
  • 26
    Galle Fort Lighthouse

    Discover the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch. Walk along cobblestone lanes lined with boutique shops, cafes, and galleries.

    4 hours Admission ticket free
  • 27

    Then visit a Sea Turtle Hatchery to learn about marine conservation and maybe release baby turtles into the sea.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 28

    In the afternoon, enjoy a tranquil Madu Ganga River Safari, gliding through mangrove forests and cinnamon-covered islands.

    2 hours Admission ticket not included
  • 29
    Galle

    Overnight: Galle

    Admission ticket free
  • Day 11

    Day 11 – Galle → Colombo | Capital City Tour

    1 stop
  • 30
    Colombo

    After breakfast, drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital. Explore both the colonial charm and modern energy of the city with visits to Independence Square, Galle Face Green, Old Parliament Building, and Gangaramaya Temple. Spend your final evening shopping or dining at one of Colombo’s trendy restaurants. Overnight: Colombo

    10 hours Admission ticket free
  • Day 12

    Day 12 – Departure

    1 stop
  • 31
    Bandaranaike International Airport

    After breakfast, your chauffeur guide will transfer you to the airport for your flight home. Take with you memories of ancient temples, misty mountains, and golden beaches — the true spirit of Sri Lanka.

    Admission ticket free

Additional info

  • Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Supplied by Vision of Travel

Tags

Multi-day Tours
Bus Tours
Private Sightseeing Tours
Cultural Tours
Historical Tours
Car Tours
Adventure Tours

Cancellation Policy

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

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