Experience Sri Lanka
Ancient temples, spice gardens, beaches, wildlife safari, white water rafting through tea plantations
This 10 night / 11 day itinerary through Sri Lanka is designed for travelers looking to explore pristine rainforests, climb ancient rock fortresses, spot abundant wildlife, and laze on breathtaking beaches.
Start in Negombo before heading out to Sigiriya where you’ll visit cave temples and climb Lion Rock to explore a ruined palace. Then it’s time to take things up a notch with a white water rafting experience through the rainforest and tea plantations. Jump on a local train, one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka, and explore the town of Ella. Next up is a bit of wildlife spotting, board a 4x4 and keep your eyes open for elephants, monkeys, buffaloes and leopards! To finish off, relax by the beach in Mirissa, enjoying the clear waters, incredible sunsets and local food.
Unforgettable Experiences
Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
Hike up Lions Rock to see a ruined palace
White water rafting in Kitulgala
Catch the train to Ella through tea plantations
Fisherman’s cooking demonstration & lunch
Jeep safari to see wild elephants and more
Itinerary Overview
10 nights accommodation
Scenic train ride to Ella
Negombo fish market visit
Guided tour of Dambulla Cave Temple
Hike up Lions Rock in Sigiriya
Trek at at spice garden and local lunch
White water rafting in Kitulgala
Morning wildlife Jeep 4x4 safari
Fisherman's cooking demonstration and seafood lunch
Visit to Dutch Fort in Galle
Itinerary
Day 1 A Warm Sri Lankan Welcome
You've arrived on the beautiful island of Sri Lanka! Start your trip in Negombo, a charming coastal town known for its picturesque beaches and vibrant fishing industry. Get settled in your beachfront hotel and then it’s time to kick things off! For your first taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine, head out to a local restaurant for dinner.
Day 2 Fish Markets & Ancient Caves
This morning, start early with a visit to the bustling Negombo fish market. It's a magical time to explore as vendors display the treasures of the sea, from crab and lobster to squid. Find a seasoned leader to help you navigate this organised chaos and introduce you to the best catches of the day. Then bid farewell to Negombo and set off towards Sigiriya. The first stop is the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple. These ancient caves house around 150 stunning statues and paintings of Buddha, some dating back over 2000 years. Unravel the mysteries of this UNESCO World Heritage site, sharing stories of its centuries-old significance.
Day 3 Scaling Lion Rock
Today is what bucket list experiences are made of, with a hike up the majestic Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock. This UNESCO World Heritage site beckons travellers with its awe-inspiring ancient palace ruins perched dramatically atop a towering rocky outcrop, offering a captivating blend of history, adventure, and breathtaking panoramic views. The journey to the top is a bit of a workout but the view from the summit is an unforgettable reward for your efforts. In the afternoon, take a breather and rest your legs at one of the hotel’s two outdoor pools or join an optional Jeep safari to Minneriya National Park for a chance to see some of Sri Lanka's incredible elephants in the wild.
Day 4 Spices and Serenity
After a hearty breakfast set off for Kandy, a town nestled amidst lush green hills known for its rich history and stunning natural beauty. Along the way, make a pitstop in Matale, where a local spice garden awaits. Take a short trek through the lush greenery and discover the spices that have played a pivotal role in Sri Lanka's rich culture. Afterwards, treat your taste buds to an irresistible feast of authentic Sri Lankan flavours that will leave you craving for more. Once you check in at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your leisure or you could choose to witness the Kandy Cultural Show or visit the Temple of the Tooth.
Day 5 Rafting through tea plantations
Leave Kandy today to head further south along our journey. First up, we're off to Kitulgala for an exhilarating white water rafting experience that will have your heart pounding with excitement. While navigating the rapids, you'll be treated to stunning views of Sri Lanka's rainforests and tea plantations. After the adrenaline rush, make your way to Nuwara Eliya, where you can unwind at your hotel or explore the charming town surrounded by lush tea plantations.
Day 6 Scenic train ride
This morning, board a morning train in Nuwara Eliya for an enchanting journey to Ella, considered one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka. As the train winds through picturesque locations, including Haputale and Bandarawela, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking scenery. Upon arrival in Ella, explore the town's charm and visit attractions like the famous Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam's Peak. If time allows, a visit to a tea plantation is a must. Later, drive to Yala, where you can check in at your hotel and relax as evening sets in, maybe relaxing with a drink overlooking the paddy fields.
Day 7 Leopard spotting on safari
Embark on an early morning Jeep Safari at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's premier wildlife reserve. Traverse open grasslands, lush forests, and tranquil lagoons with your expert guide. Keep your ears and eyes peeled for concealed animals, including crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, buffaloes, and if you're lucky, a glimpse of the elusive leopard. After an exhilarating morning, head to the laid-back beach town of Mirissa. Along the way, make a stop at Coconut Tree Hill, a picture-perfect spot overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean and golden beaches. Check in at your hotel, and in the afternoon, don't miss the opportunity to explore the stunning beach and take a refreshing dip in the ocean.
Day 8 Discover a fisherman’s secrets
Today, gain a unique insight into local life as you meet with a local fisherman and learn about their craft. Discover how the lives of fishermen have evolved since the tsunami, and enjoy the freshest seafood lunch with a fisherman's family – prepare for a delightful crab curry! Return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring the golden sands of Sri Lanka's southern coastline. The beach here offers calm, clear waters for swimming and incredible sunsets that will leave you in awe. Choose a hotel directly on the beach, and the pool and bar might be the best spot in town to watch the sun go down with friends.
Day 9 16th century forts
Bid farewell to Mirissa and on the drive to Colombo, stop into Galle to visit the impressive World Heritage-listed Dutch fort with extensive walls and many interesting old buildings. Enjoy a stroll around the historic fort and you can explore narrow streets lined with colonial-era buildings, including churches, mosques, and colonial houses. There are also several museums and art galleries that showcase the history and culture of the area. Then head north on your final stop on your tropical holiday, travelling to Sri Lanka’s commercial heart, Colombo.
Day 10 Bustling streets & markets
Today explore the city of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital city. Get an expert to take you through the buzzing streets of the Colombo Fort on a walking tour. Make a stop at the Pettah fruit and vegetable market where you’ll be fully immersed in the sights, sounds and smells of Colombo as you watch vendors and shoppers go about their business. Visit the striking candy cane coloured Red Mosque and its soaring minarets that can be seen from across the city. Further explorations will reveal Dutch and British influenced architecture, a hangover from the city’s colonial past.
Day 11 Farewell Sri Lanka
This is the final day on the itinerary but hopefully you’ll be leaving Sri Lanka with incredible memories and a desire to continue to see more of the world. Maybe it’s not a farewell at all, but a see you later!
“Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, cheap prices, fun trains, famous tea and flavorful food make Sri Lanka irresistible.”
Lonely Planet
Recommended Hotels
Earl’s Regent - Negombo
Kassapa Lions Rock - Sigiriya
Paradise Beach Club - Mirissa
Sri Lanka is all about the...
Tea plantations.
Serendipity.
Spicy curries.
Cultural tapestry.
Breathtaking beauty.
Elephants.
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The trip starts in Negombo and finishes in Colombo.
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Fly into and out of Bandaranaike International Airport aka Colombo International Airport (CMB).
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We recommend having a read-through of the itinerary above, and getting in touch if you have specific questions on fitness. Overall, the trip is relatively relaxed but has a few specific walking/treking activities so a moderate level of fitness is recommended. There is a climb up Sigiriya Rock on Day 4 and scaling the rock involves walking up lots of rough, narrow steps and tight walkways, so good, worn-in walking shoes or trainers are advised.
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We recommend checking with your local travel clinic six to eight weeks before your trip to see if any medications or vaccinations are required.
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All visitors will need to apply for an e-visa online: http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
We recommend that you have at least six months validity remaining on your passport and can show a return ticket.