12-Day Best of Sri Lanka
Ancient cities, hill country, wildlife and the south coast, in one trip.
About This Tour
This is our answer for travellers who want a genuine overview of the island without rushing: the Cultural Triangle, the hill country, a wildlife safari and the south coast, in a pace that leaves room to actually enjoy each place rather than just tick it off. Ten days is enough to add proper beach time at the end, around Mirissa or Unawatuna, after the more active first week.
Highlights
- Sigiriya, Dambulla and Polonnaruwa's ancient cities
- Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth
- The Kandy–Ella scenic train through tea estates
- A full-day safari at Yala National Park
Key Information
Duration
12 Days / 11 Nights
Difficulty
Moderate
Best Time
December to April for the south coast; year-round for the rest of the route
Group Size
Private & small groups
Transport
Private A/C vehicle throughout
Start Point
Colombo (Bandaranaike Airport)
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival & Transfer to Negombo
Arrival at the airport and transfer to Negombo for your first night, a relaxed way to ease into Sri Lanka after the flight.
Day 2
Transfer to Sigiriya | Elephant Orphanage
Drive from Negombo to Sigiriya, with a stop at an elephant orphanage en route. Welcome dinner included on arrival.
Day 3
Sigiriya & Dambulla Exploration
A full day based in Sigiriya, climbing the Lion Rock fortress and visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple.
Day 4
Polonnaruwa Exploration & Safari
Day trip from Sigiriya to explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, followed by an afternoon safari.
Day 5
Sigiriya to Kandy via Matale
Drive south from Sigiriya to Kandy, stopping in Matale along the way.
Day 6
Visit Tea Factory & Explore Nuwara-Eliya
Drive up into the hill country to Nuwara-Eliya, visiting a working tea factory and exploring the town.
Day 7
Scenic Train Ride & Ella Exploration
Take the famous scenic train from Nuwara-Eliya to Ella, then explore the town on arrival.
Day 8
Ella Exploration
A full day exploring Ella's highlights, including Little Adam's Peak and the Nine Arches Bridge.
Day 9
Ella to Yala via Buduruwagala
Drive from Ella to Yala, stopping at the ancient Buduruwagala rock carvings en route.
Day 10
Yala to Mirissa via Blue Beach Island
Drive from Yala to the south coast, stopping at Blue Beach Island along the way, arriving in Mirissa.
Day 11
Whale Watching & Beach Day
A morning whale watching excursion off Mirissa, followed by a relaxed beach day.
Day 12
Transfer to Airport Via Galle
Depart Mirissa with a stop in the historic Galle Fort en route to the airport for your departure flight.
Route Map
The stops from the itinerary above, in order.
What's Included
- Private A/C vehicle and driver-guide throughout
- English speaking tour guide
- Port pickup and drop-off
- Highway Fees
- Local Insurance for the vehicle
- Passengerinsurance cover
What's Not Included
- Meals
- Entrance tickets to sites and parks
- Personal expenses and tips
- Gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages
Activities
Image Gallery
Enquire About This Tour
Message us your dates and group size, and we'll confirm availability directly.
Advance payment: 25% to confirm the itinerary and hotels
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 14 days before arrival