- Overview
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This 12-day journey through Sri Lanka takes in history, wildlife, and enchanting landscapes. Wander Colombo’s vibrant streets, marvel at Galle Fort, and unwind on South West Coast beaches. Tick off Yala and Minneriya national parks, Nuwara Eliya’s tea country, and experience cultural performances in Kandy and ascend Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
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Itineraries
Day 1
Colombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
On arrival into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), make your own way to your accommodation, which is situated on the out-skirts of Colombo.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
Day 2
Colombo - Kalutara (South West Coast)
This morning after breakfast, meet your tour leader and the rest of your group for a welcome meeting and brief of the day's activities.
We will then take some time to explore Colombo, a city with a long history as a port on ancient east-west trade routes, ruled successively by the Portuguese, Dutch and British. This heritage is reflected in its architecture, mixing colonial buildings with high-rises and shopping malls.
We will also visit the Colombo National Museum. This museum takes visitors through Sri Lankan history, housed in a neo-Baroque building constructed by William Henry Gregory, Governor of Ceylon, in 1877. Exhibits are dedicated to each of Sri Lanka's historical kingdoms, with informational display boards providing insights such as the meaning behind the mudras (gestures and poses) depicted in Sri Lanka's Buddha statues.
You will arrive at your hotel in Kalutara during the afternoon, with the evening at leisure.
Inspiring Highlights
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Colombo National Museum
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 3
Kalutara (South West Coast) - Galle - Kalutara (South West Coast)
After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, we will head to the charming town of Balapitiya, where you’ll embark on a scenic boat ride along the Madu River. The river is home to 64 islands, and one notable stop is Cinnamon Island, known locally as “Kurundu Doowa.” During your visit, you'll gain a fascinating insight into the process of cinnamon production, as Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer of pure cinnamon!
Next, head to the historic Galle Fort, renowned for its impressive fortifications. This city beautifully blends the past with the present. A UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, Galle Fort showcases the architectural influences of the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, making it a captivating place to explore.
Afterward, return to your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
- Madu River
- Galle Fort
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 6 hours.
Day 4
Kalutara (South West Coast) - Yala National Park
After breakfast we leave for Yala National Park. On arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to relax.
In the afternoon, set out on a guided game drive exploring the wildlife and plant life of Yala National Park. Being one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka, it is a place where you may sight the rare leopard. The game drive takes place in the late afternoon, returning around sunset, which is an optimal time for animal viewing.
Inspiring Highlights
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Yala National Park
Special Information
Yala National Park is closed for routine maintenance in September and October under the direction of the local government. The exact dates will not be advised until 1 to 2 months prior to departure. During this time Udawalawe National Park or Yala National Park (Block 5) will be visited and offers equal animal sighting opportunities.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours, not including the game drive.
Day 5
Yala National Park - Nine Arch Bridge - Haputale
After a leisurely breakfast, we leave for Haputale.
En route we stop in Ella, before continuing to Nine Arch Bridge, also called the Bridge in the Sky. This is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. The construction of the bridge is generally attributed to a local Ceylonese builder, in consultation with British engineers. It is located in Demodara, between Ella and Demodara railway stations. The surrounding area has seen a steady increase in tourism due to the bridge's architectural ingenuity and the greenery of the nearby hillsides.
Continue on to your hotel in Haputale, where you will arrive this evening.
Inspiring Highlights
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Nine Arch Bridge
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Enjoy a morning Safari in Yala National Park. Departing around sunrise, it allows you to witness animals greeting the morning light and affords you extra time in the safari park to spot its elusive species.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: All entrance and government fees.
Start Time: 6.00am
End Time: 9.00am
Day 6
Haputale - Ella - Haputale
Hotel
Olympus Plaza Hotel
Meal: Breakfast
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your hotel in the hilly surrounds of Haputale.
This afternoon, transfer to Ella Railway Station to board the scenic train back to Haputale. The journey takes you through tea country, with views of rolling hills, waterfalls and plantations along the way.
Return to your hotel this evening.
Inspiring Highlights
- Scenic Train Journey
Special Information
It is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation in advance, as Sri Lanka Railway has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The 1st and 2nd class is basic but has air-conditioning. The non-air conditioned 3rd class sometimes is the only option based on availability. On the rare occasion the train is fully booked we will conduct the route by road.
Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours.
Optional Tour - Horton Plains & World’s End
At approximately 5:30am, leave for Horton Plains National Park. This park holds great importance due to the rich and unique biodiversity and being a catchment area feeding some of the main rivers of Sri Lanka. It is also known to be a 'super biodiversity hotspot' and thus declared a UNESCO site in 2010. The national park is most famous for the vista - World's End.
You will be accompanied by a private escort the entire duration of the hike - from the Horton Plains Park Park Office, to World's End (via Mini World's End) and back. Wear strong and comfortable walking shoes, a hat and sunglasses. Bring sunscreen, food and water. The weather can change very quickly on the plains – one minute it can be sunny and clear, the next chilly and misty. Bring a few extra layers of warm clothing.
Meeting Point: Hotel
Includes: Return transfers, entrance into Horton Plains National Park, packed breakfast, private escort
Start Time: 5.30am
End Time: 12.30pm
Note: 7.5km round trip - 150m elevation gain. There are no safety rails available so we recommend this activity for those who are physically fit and go on long walks often. We do not recommend this if you have a difficult time walking along uneven, potentially wet, and rocky terrain.
Day 7
Haputale - Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, we leave Haputale and head to Nuwara Eliya. The drive takes in tea country views and waterfalls along the way.
On arrival, visit a tea plantation and factory. Here you will enjoy the absolute tea experience, from the moment the young tea leaves are plucked from the plantation, through to being processed in the factory to make a cup of tea. If you are interested, the tea factory is a good place to purchase quality tea.
Return to your hotel this evening.
Inspiring Highlights
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Tea Plantation
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 8
Nuwara Eliya (Ramboda) - Kandy
After breakfast we leave for Kandy. The route passes tea country and waterfalls.
On arrival in Kandy, enjoy a city tour. Kandy, the Hill Capital (1514 to 1815 AD), was originally known as Senkadagala. Kandy was declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1988. The style and character of the Sri Lankan civilisation at the time is well articulated in the heart of the city itself, with its lake, the temples including the Temple of the Tooth Relic (visit at own expense) and the preserved ruins of the royal palaces.
This evening, attend a traditional Sri Lankan cultural performance before returning to the hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
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Kandy City Tour
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Cultural Performance
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 9
Kandy - Dambulla Cave - Minneriya National Park - Sigiriya
After breakfast we proceed to Sigiriya, stopping on route to visit Dambulla cave temple. Built in the first century BC, it is recognized to be the largest cave sanctuary in the world with its 2000 m2 of walls and ceilings painted more than 150 Buddha images whose largest engraved in the rock reaches 14 metres high. We'll proceed with a visit to the Spice Garden in Matale before heading to Sigiriya Jungles Resort, where you'll enjoy stunning views of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
This afternoon, set out on an exclusively private jeep safari at the Minneriya National Park to witness the unique phenomenon of elephant gathering. During the dry season, from June to September, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank for water. Such a large number of elephants could not be sighted at one place, anywhere else in the world!
Tonight, enjoy a group dinner and celebrate your new friendships.
Inspiring Highlights
- Dambulla Cave
- Spice Garden
- Minneriya National Park
Special Information
Since elephants are migratory animals, we may visit Kaudualla or Eco Park on this day instead, pending elephant locations.
Your travel time today will be approximately 3.5 hours, not including Jeep Safari.
Day 10
Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya
You will have an early start today to commence the day's sightseeing. Proceed to Sigiriya Rock Fortress and climb the Sigiriya Rock, one of the most extraordinary artistic complexes of its time (477 to 498 AD). Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1982, this citadel draws artistic and architectural curiosity from around the globe.
Return to the hotel before taking part in an Inspiring Taste cooking demonstration of Sri Lankan rice and curry preparation and enjoy a Sri Lankan lunch overlooking the paddy fields.
This afternoon, enjoy a sightseeing tour of the medieval capital city of Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa was declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1982. After the demise of Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa became the middle historic capital of Sri Lanka (1017 to 1235 AD).
After an insightful day on the road, you will reach your hotel at approximately 7pm. We suggest dinner at your hotel or somewhere nearby to ensure a restful night ahead.
Inspiring Highlights
- Sigiriya Rock
- Cooking Demonstration
- Polonnaruwa City
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 11
Sigiriya - Negombo
After breakfast, we depart Sigiriya for the drive to Negombo (approximately 5 hours). On arrival, enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at leisure to explore the coast, the local activity or to relax by the pool.
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 12
Negombo
This morning, enjoy a visit to the Fish Market. Negombo is home for the Island’s second largest fish market, as locals call – “Lellama”
At an appropriate time, make your own way to the airport in time for your onward flight - you will have access to your room until 8pm this evening, should your flight be later in the evening.
Airport transfers are not included. Our transfer portal offers the option to book your airport transfers for an easier arrival experience (additional charges apply). Access to this portal will be available through your Traveller Hub once your booking is confirmed.
- Accommodation: 11 nights in 3–5 star hotels
- Meals: Breakfast daily, 1 lunch (cooking experience) & 1 dinner
- Transport: Private transportation throughout
- Touring: Fully escorted tour with English-speaking guide
- Experiences: Scenic train journey, Yala & Minneriya safaris, cultural touring & entry fees as per itinerary
Important Notes:
- Land-only package (international flights not included)
- Group Size: 4–26 passengers
- Physical Rating 3: Moderate walking, steps & uneven terrain
- Travel Insurance – your North Travel consultant can provide you with a quote. Get a quote now.
- Tourism visa or transit visa if required
- Upgrades to Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class available and to be quote at the time of booking.
- Itinerary deviations (e.g. extensions or specific airline requests). This will be quoted by a North Travel consultant at the time of booking.
- Professional service fee's (if any)
Advertised prices are not guaranteed until confirmed at booking. Prices are dynamic and may be affected by foreign exchange, airline, cruise, tour and supplier changes beyond North Travel’s control.
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On some itineraries and tours you may be required to have comprehensive travel insurance by the travel supplier. One of our consultants can guide you on this.
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