10 Days PrivateTour in Sri Lanka - Island Essence

What's Included

Meeting and pickup

Itinerary

Day 1
Welcome to Sri Lanka | Airport Pick-up
2 stops
1
Bandaranaike International Airport
“Ayubowan!” – With this traditional Sri Lankan greeting, our friendly tour leader will warmly welcome you upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). From here, enjoy a smooth, private transfer to the charming coastal town of Negombo.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
2
Negombo Beach
Visit a famous place for its golden beaches, breezy palms, and relaxed coastal vibe, Negombo is the perfect place to unwind after your flight. Take time to relax by the pool, enjoy a refreshing drink, or take a peaceful sunset stroll along the beach. Check in to your comfortable seafront hotel and get a good night’s sleep—you’re about to begin an unforgettable journey across Sri Lanka!
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Day 2
Negombo → Sigiriya | En Route Visit to Dambulla Cave Temple
3 stops
3
Dambulla Cave Temple
After breakfast, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your English-speaking driver at your hotel in Colombo or Negombo. Begin your scenic journey to Sigiriya, a region rich in ancient heritage and lush natural beauty. On the way, you’ll stop to explore the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This awe-inspiring temple complex is built into a massive rock outcrop and houses over 150 Buddha statues, colourful murals, and sacred relics dating back over 2,000 years. It's one of the best-preserved cave temples in Sri Lanka.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included
4
Sigiriya Craft Village
Sigiriya Village Tour – Authentic Rural Experience Immerse yourself in the charm of Sri Lankan village life with this unforgettable countryside experience in Sigiriya. Wander through scenic paddy fields, enjoy a traditional bullock cart ride, and glide across a serene lake on a catamaran boat. Visit a chena cultivation and learn about traditional farming practices. At a rural village home, take part in a cooking demonstration, where you'll discover the secrets of Sri Lankan cuisine before enjoying an authentic home-cooked lunch.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
5
Pidurangala Rock
Climb Pidurangala Rock in the late afternoon for one of the most breathtaking sunset views in Sri Lanka. From the summit, enjoy a panoramic view of the jungle and the iconic Sigiriya Rock silhouetted against the setting sun. It's a peaceful, less crowded alternative to Sigiriya and perfect for photography and quiet reflection.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
Day 3
Polonnaruwa Heritage Tour
3 stops
6
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
On your way to the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa, take a detour for a cycling tour through the peaceful countryside. Ride along quiet village roads surrounded by lush paddy fields and meet local farmers going about their daily routines. This is a perfect opportunity to witness the authentic rural lifestyle of Sri Lanka, far from the tourist crowds. This optional experience lets you choose between immersing yourself in village life on two wheels or heading directly to explore the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa. Either way, it's a journey filled with culture, history, and unforgettable memories.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
7
Gal Vihara
Step into the Golden Age – Explore Ancient Polonnaruwa Today, journey into the heart of Sri Lanka’s royal past with a guided tour of Polonnaruwa, the island’s second ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk through the remarkably preserved ruins of this sacred city—where stone temples, royal palaces, and majestic stupas whisper tales of a glorious bygone era. Highlights include: - Sacred Quadrangle (Vatadage Complex): Once enshrining the Sacred Tooth Relic, featuring exquisite carvings and ancient Sinhalese architecture. - Rankot Vihara: The city’s largest stupa, echoing spiritual devotion and engineering mastery. - Kiri Vihara: A pristine white dagoba built for a queen, untouched by restoration. - Lankatilaka Image House: Home to a towering 17-meter standing Buddha framed by monumental brick walls. - Gal Vihara: Four serene Buddha statues—seated, standing, and reclining—carved from a single granite slab, showcasing unmatched craftsmanship.
1 hour 30 minutes • Admission ticket not included
8
Minneriya National Park
Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park Safari (Private Jeep Included) In the late afternoon, embark on an unforgettable private jeep safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, selected based on current elephant movement patterns to ensure the best wildlife experience. Get up close to majestic wild elephants roaming freely across open grasslands, often gathering in large herds—a truly iconic sight. The park is also home to toque macaques, sambar deer, water buffalo, crocodiles, and a variety of exotic birds, offering rich biodiversity for nature lovers and photographers alike. This is one of Sri Lanka’s top wildlife experiences, combining excitement, serenity, and unforgettable mome
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 4
Sigiriya Rock Adventure → Kandy
5 stops
9
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress
Early Morning Adventure – Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress Start your day with an unforgettable sunrise hike to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Climbing early means cooler temperatures, fewer crowds, and ideal lighting for stunning photos. Explore the ancient royal gardens, mirror wall, and frescoes, then take in the panoramic views from the summit—once the site of a king’s palace in the sky. After your descent, return to the hotel for a refreshing breakfast and some well-earned relaxation.
2 hours • Admission ticket not included
10
Matale Herbal and Spice Garden
…live demonstrations or mini cooking sessions, where you can experience how these spices are used in authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Friendly guides will explain the medicinal and culinary uses of each plant, including cinnamon, turmeric, and cardamom. Whether you're a foodie, a wellness enthusiast, or simply curious, this stop at Matale’s spice gardens is a fragrant, flavorful, and educational highlight of your journey through Sri Lanka.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
11
Kandy
Journey to Kandy with Cultural Highlights En Route After a hearty breakfast, embark on a scenic drive toward Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Along the way, enjoy enriching stops that blend history, spirituality, and local craftsmanship: - Nalanda Gedige – Explore this ancient site known for its rare mix of Hindu and Buddhist architectural elements. - Matale Spice Garden – Take a guided stroll through lush gardens and learn about the medicinal and culinary uses of Sri Lankan spices (educational visit only). - Gem Museum & Workshop – Discover the island’s gem heritage, watch skilled artisans at work, and learn about Sri Lanka’s place in the global gem trade. - Hindu Temple in Matale – Admire the vibrant Dravidian-style architecture and learn about local religious traditions. Upon reaching Kandy, enjoy a city tour that includes a walk around Kandy Lake, a visit to local markets, colonial buildings, and a chance to feel the rhythm of this hill country capital.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
12
Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show
Experience the vibrant traditional dance and drumming performances of Sri Lanka’s hill country. This colorful and energetic show showcases the rich heritage and rituals of the Kandyan kingdom, leaving you mesmerized by the rhythm, costumes, and storytelling.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
13
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
In the evening Highlights in Kandy As the sun sets, immerse yourself in the cultural heart of Sri Lanka: - Traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance Performance – Witness the vibrant rhythms, colorful costumes, fire dances, and drumming that celebrate Sri Lanka’s rich heritage. - Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – Visit one of Buddhism’s most sacred shrines, believed to house a relic of Lord Buddha. The temple is beautifully lit in the evening and filled with the sounds of prayer and traditional drumming. Overnight Stay – Comfortable hotel in Kandy
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
Day 5
The time for Hill Country and Explore the Best Tea in the World!
5 stops
14
Royal Botanic Gardens Peradeniya
Your driver will drop you at the entrance of the Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants—including vibrant orchids, spices, medicinal herbs, and towering palm trees. Attached to the garden is the National Herbarium of Sri Lanka, where you can learn more about the island’s rich plant biodiversity. Take your time to stroll through the lush grounds, discovering the incredible flora and fauna unique to Sri Lanka.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
15
Begin your journey to Nuwara Eliya with a visit to Blue Field Tea Factory. At the nearby Blue Field Tea Lounge, enjoy a refreshing cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea—a favourite spot for both locals and visitors. Take a guided tour of the tea factory to explore the intricate manufacturing process behind Sri Lanka’s finest teas. Learn about the unique methods used to produce different types of tea. The experience ends with a delightful tea tasting session, and you’ll have the chance to purchase a wide selection of flavoured teas to take home. Tea Plucking Experience: Take a walk through the beautiful hills, among rows of tea plants and experience the tea plucking process. You’ll be taken through the process of growing tea plants to harvesting tea leaves while enjoying scenic mountain views. Learn the heritage of tea, enjoying a cool breeze.
1 hour • Admission ticket included
16
Ramboda Waterfall
As you travel towards Nuwara Eliya, don’t miss the chance to admire the stunning Ramboda Waterfall. This breathtaking natural attraction is a highlight along the route, offering a perfect spot for photos. Enjoy a picturesque view of the waterfall’s middle tier right from the roadside—truly one of the must-see sights on your way to Nuwara Eliya.
15 minutes • Admission ticket included
17
Ambuluwawa Tower
The history of Ambuluwawa Tower dates back to its construction in the early 2000s. The tower was built as a multi-religious center and a symbol of religious harmony in Sri Lanka. It is a testament to the country's cultural diversity and unity.
1 hour • Admission ticket not included
18
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, often called "Little England," welcomes you with its cool climate, colonial charm, and lush green surroundings. Nestled amidst rolling hills and sprawling tea plantations, this serene hill town exudes a tranquil atmosphere. Explore its well-kept gardens, colonial-era buildings, and enjoy the unique blend of natural beauty and historical heritage. Nuwara Eliya offers a peaceful retreat, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting destinations.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 6
Experience a Beautiful Train Ride!
4 stops
19
From the Nanu Oya (river), the water flows through the Udaradella and Bambarakelle areas to the fall. The water cascades through mist down a sequence of 25 steps (60m in height) creating the Nanu Oya Ella Falls before later joining the Kotmale and Mahaweli rivers. A hint of grandeur is added to the scene by the imposing bridge that spans the fall. The Nanu Oya Ella Fall is situated in Nanu Oya, 6km from Nuwara Eliya.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
20
Nanu Oya railway station
No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without experiencing the iconic train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, often hailed as one of the best in the world (train tickets included). After enjoying breakfast at your hotel, your chauffeur-guide will transfer you to Nanu Oya station (8 km away) to board the charming British-era train that winds through mountains, tea plantations, and lush forests of the scenic Tea Country. As the train chugs along, marvel at breathtaking views of dense forests, cascading waterfalls, tunnels carved through rock, vast mountain ranges, and picturesque valleys. Be sure to sample some delicious street food onboard—fresh pineapple slices or crispy deep-fried vades are local favorites! Upon arrival in Ella, your guide will pick you up for a visit to the famous Nine Arch Bridge and a climb up Little Adam’s Peak (entrance fees included). After this adventure, relax with an overnight stay in cozy Ella.
3 hours • Admission ticket not included
21
Nine Arches Bridge
The famous Nine Arch Bridge, an engineering marvel connecting two large mountains during the construction of the Badulla-Colombo railway, stands as one of Sri Lanka’s finest examples of colonial-era railway craftsmanship. To reach the bridge, take a scenic walk through lush tea fields and a charming local village, where you can also catch a train passing over this iconic structure. End your day relaxing at Chill Cafe in Ella, soaking in the laid-back vibe of this beautiful town.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
22
Ella
Welcome to Ella, the beloved hill-country village nestled in Sri Lanka’s central highlands! Surrounded by lush greenery and misty mountains, Ella offers breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. After your scenic train ride, our vehicle will be ready at Ella railway station to transfer you to a comfortable hotel. In the evening, explore cozy restaurants serving both Western and local dishes, along with vibrant cafes and bars that create the perfect relaxing vibe. Dive into the unique blend of calm and liveliness that makes Ella truly special.
4 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 7
Ella to Tissamaharama → Visit Yala National Park
3 stops
23
Little Adam's Peak View Point
Meet your driver early morning to begin the hike up the 1,141m peak. The trail is fairly easy with a clear path throughout, so lace up your sports shoes for about an hour of climbing. Once at the summit, enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of lush mountains, waterfalls, and fields. On a clear day, you might even spot the southern coast of Sri Lanka from the peak—a truly unforgettable experience!
1 hour • Admission ticket included
24
Rawana Falls
According to legend, Ravana, the ancient king of Lanka, kidnapped Princess Sita and hid her in the caves behind this waterfall—now famously known as Ravana Ella Cave. This captivating tale adds a mysterious charm to the stunning natural beauty of the falls.
30 minutes • Admission ticket included
25
Yala National Park
In the evening, you have the option to enjoy an exciting safari at either Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park (jeep safari and entrance fees are not included). Embark on a thrilling journey as you leave Ella behind and head to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s second largest and most famous park, known for its incredible biodiversity. Home to elephants, elusive leopards, and numerous bird species, Yala promises a memorable wildlife adventure. We’ll arrange an experienced safari jeep and guide to accompany you, sharing insights about the park’s ecology and helping you spot its fascinating inhabitants. Prepare for an unforgettable evening immersed in the wild heart of Yala. Overnight stay in Tissamaharama.
4 hours • Admission ticket not included
Day 8
It's Time for the Beach/ Tissamaharama → Unawatuna
2 stops
26
Unawatuna
Upon arrival at your resort, kick off your shoes, grab a towel, and head straight to the golden shores. Whether you’re lounging under a palm tree, sipping a cold local beer, or soaking in the sound of the waves — this is your moment of tropical bliss. Optional Water Adventures: For those seeking more than just sun and sand, dive into exciting coastal activities: • Jet Skiing – Speed across turquoise waters • Banana Boat & Tube Rides – Adrenaline-pumping fun for groups • Snorkeling & Scuba Diving – Discover vibrant marine life • Surfing in Weligama – Ideal for beginners • Fishing Trips – Try your luck on a deep-sea adventure Whether you're here to unwind or dive into action, the southern coast has it all.
1 day • Admission ticket free
27
Jungle Beach
As you approach sea level from your descent, the anticipation builds. The lush greenery of the surrounding jungle provides a backdrop to the tranquil journey, with the occasional curious monkey hopping around over you, in the hopeful search for a snack. Wildlife enthusiasts might also catch glimpses of diverse bird species. Upon arriving at Jungle Beach, the secluded cove unfolds, revealing pristine sands and crystal-clear waters. The beach is well worth the journey.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 9
Unawatuna → Galle Fort / Leisure Time On the Beach Bcak to Unawatuna
3 stops
28
Galle Dutch Fort
Upon arrival in Galle, step into a bygone era as you explore the iconic Galle Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage Site that blends history, charm, and coastal beauty. Originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, this remarkably preserved fortress invites you to wander its cobblestone streets lined with colonial buildings, quaint cafes, artisan boutiques, and galleries. Soak in the old-world atmosphere and ocean breeze, and don’t forget to visit the Galle Lighthouse, a postcard-perfect landmark perched at the southeastern edge of the fort, offering stunning views of the coastline.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
29
You can visit the Moonstone mining near Galle. Meetiyagoda is an illustrious name in the world of moonstone mining. It‘s Sri Lanka‘s largest moonstone mine and Sri Lankan moonstones are renowned for their blue shine that makes a difference to Indian moonstones. The finest and rarest moonstones have an almost transparent colourless body with a strong blue shine. Actually, Sri Lankan moonstones are those of highest value due to their dark blue reflections, although Mogok in Myanmar (Birma) has been the world‘s best primary source of highly esteemed blue-shining moonstones. Finds of valuable moonstones have become rarer in recent decades. On average, 50 to 100 rough moonstones of diverse qualities are mined per day in Meetiyagoda, which are sourced from deposits at depths of about 10 to 40 metres. Some decades ago, they could be found close to the surface.
2 hours • Admission ticket included
30
Unawatuna
After back to Unawatuna, Unawatuna Beach is truly a slice of paradise on Sri Lanka's southern coast! The soft golden sands, fringed by lush palm trees, create a stunning backdrop for relaxation and adventure. The water here is calm and ideal for swimming, making it perfect for families, including those with kids.
2 hours • Admission ticket free
Day 10
Farewell Sri Lanka: Colombo City Tour / Airport or Hotel Drop- Off
2 stops
31
Colombo
Explore Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling economic capital, on a vibrant city tour. Visit iconic landmarks like the Parliament (viewable from outside), National Museum, Gangaramaya Temple, and the Dutch Hospital—now a chic shopping and dining hub. Wander through lively markets and busy streets, soaking in the city’s unique mix of tradition and modern life. Note: some sites may have entrance fees. This tour offers a perfect farewell, capturing Colombo’s rich heritage and dynamic spirit.
3 hours • Admission ticket free
32
Bandaranaike International Airport
As your unforgettable Sri Lanka adventure comes to an end, we’ll ensure a smooth and comfortable transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport, from either Colombo or Negombo—whichever suits you best. Take a moment to reflect on the vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and special memories you've made. Thank you for choosing us as your travel partner. Safe travels and may Sri Lanka’s charm stay with you always!
2 hours • Admission ticket free

Additional info

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels

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