Tour Highlights
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock and explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle
- Experience a thrilling wildlife safari in Minneriya National Park, where you can spot elephants and other fascinating animals
- Take a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, journeying through lush tea plantations, and enjoy a traditional high tea at the historic Grand Hotel
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist sites, and immerse yourself in its rich cultural heritage
GENERAL INFORMATION
Tour Route: Negombo - Negombo - Kurunegaa - Habarana - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya - Colombo
Duration: 9 Days/ 8 Nights
Departure Date: No fixed departure. Anytime you wish!
Start/ End: Negombo/Colombo
Tour Customizable: Definitely! Tell us your interests
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Negombo (D)
Day 2: Negombo - Kurunegaa - Habarana (B, L)
Day 3: Habarana (B, L)
Day 4: Habarana (B, L)
Day 5: Kandy (B)
Day 6: Kandy (B, L)
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya (B)
Day 8: Colombo (B, L, D)
Day 9: Colombo (B)
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Negombo (D)
Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, an Sri Lanka Local Tours representative will greet you and arrange your transfer to your hotel in nearby Negombo.
This evening at 6 pm, you’ll attend a welcome meeting where you’ll meet your local leader and fellow travelers. If you arrive early, you might want to unwind on the beach or take a stroll to explore your surroundings. After the meeting, enjoy a round of complimentary cocktails and a welcome dinner featuring traditional Sri Lankan cuisine - get ready for aromatic spices, bold flavors, and a truly unique dining experience.
Day 2: Negombo - Kurunegaa - Habarana (B, L)
This morning, you’ll journey inland, heading northeast towards Habarana. Along the way, you’ll visit Ridi Vihara shrine, an ancient Buddhist cave temple dating back to the 2nd century BC. At its peak, nearly 500 monks are believed to have lived in these hillside caves. Observe locals as they showcase age-old traditions and craftsmanship, including palm leaf writing and intricate wood and stone carving.
Explore the caves adorned with Buddha statues and floral offerings before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. Afterward, continue to Habarana, where you’ll stay for the next three nights. Once you’ve settled into your hotel, the rest of the afternoon is yours to relax or explore at your leisure.
Day 3: Habarana (B, L)
Start your day early with a visit to Sigiriya (Lion Rock) before the heat becomes too intense. This striking rock formation, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, rises dramatically from the plains and is crowned by the ruins of an ancient palace. As you ascend the steep trail, your leader will share fascinating stories about the civilization that once thrived here. Though the climb is challenging, the breathtaking panoramic views from the top make it well worth the effort.
Afterward, return to your hotel for a well-earned breakfast and a leisurely morning. Following lunch at a local home, head to the village of Muriya Kadawala, where you’ll discover the art of traditional Sri Lankan pottery. Try your hand at crafting your own piece and enjoy a local herbal drink paired with halapa - a sweet delicacy wrapped in kenda leaves. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax and unwind.
Day 4: Habarana (B, L)
After breakfast, set off for Polonnaruwa to continue exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle. Hop on a bicycle and ride through the ancient Quadrangle complex, where well-preserved temples, tombs, and stupas offer a glimpse into the city’s former grandeur. Marvel at the remains of a seven-story royal palace, visit the impressive rock temple of Gal Vihara, and see the statue of 12th-century King Parakrama I.
For lunch, you’ll be welcomed into a local grandmother’s home, where she will teach you how to prepare dhal curry and pol sambol from scratch—you’ll even get to shred coconut using a traditional scraper! In the afternoon, venture to Minneriya National Park for a chance to observe Sri Lankan elephants in their natural habitat. Gather around the watering hole to watch these gentle giants, along with macaques, spot-billed pelicans, and other fascinating wildlife.
Day 5: Kandy (B)
Today, you’ll journey to Kandy, making a stop in Matale along the way to visit a local spice garden. Here, you’ll learn about the spices that have played a significant role in Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Upon arriving in Kandy, embark on a guided city tour, including a visit to the revered Sri Dalada Maligawa, also known as Temple of Sacred Tooth Relic. This important Buddhist shrine houses a sacred tooth of Buddha, said to have been taken from his funeral pyre. Despite being Sri Lanka’s second-largest city, Kandy has a relaxed and charming atmosphere.
In the evening, enjoy your free time by savoring a flavorful curry, strolling around the shimmering lake, or opting to watch a traditional cultural dance performance.
Day 6: Kandy (B, L)
Enjoy a relaxed morning before setting off for Ambagasthenna village, where you’ll be welcomed by a tea plantation owner. He will take you on a tour of his neighborhood, offering insights into local life. For lunch, savor a delicious home-cooked meal prepared by his mother.
Later, visit the tea plantation to learn about the cultivation process and sample a cup or two of tea, prepared in the authentic Sri Lankan style. As you explore, the owner will share his knowledge of local crops, sustainable farming practices, and ancient landscaping techniques. After an enriching day, unwind with a refreshing beer and take in a breathtaking sunset from one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic viewpoints.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya (B)
Leave Kandy behind and board a morning train to Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque town set in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. Situated at an altitude of 1,800 meters, Nuwara Eliya boasts some of the coolest temperatures in the country. Traces of its colonial past remain evident in the manicured gardens and stately manor homes scattered across the landscape. Upon arrival, take a guided walk through the town, including a peaceful stroll along the shores of Gregory Lake.
Check in to the Grand Hotel, a stunning National Heritage Property and your Feature Stay for the night. While your rooms combine classic charm with modern comforts, the hotel’s true appeal lies in its commitment to sustainability, having eliminated single-use plastics and working towards a zero-waste future. Settle in with a delightful high tea experience, where you can enjoy Ceylon black, green, or spiced tea, accompanied by finger sandwiches and sweet treats.
Day 8: Colombo (B, L, D)
Goodbye to the lush green hills of Nuwara Eliya as you travel to Sri Lanka’s vibrant coastal capital, Colombo. Along the way, visit a tea factory and plantations near Labukelle, then stop for lunch at a local restaurant. Upon arrival in Colombo, join your leader for an orientation walk, exploring landmarks such as the colonnaded old parliament building, the National Museum, and some of the best spots for fair-trade souvenir shopping.
In the evening, gather with your group for a memorable farewell dinner at Ceylon Curry Club, a contemporary restaurant that highlights Sri Lankan spices. Savor dishes like peanut-crusted tuna with gotu-kola (pennywort) sambol and aromatic vegetable curry as you reflect on your incredible journey.
Day 9: Colombo (B)
Your journey concludes this morning after breakfast. If you wish to extend your stay in Colombo, simply contact your booking agent in advance to arrange extra accommodation. Hope to see you soon in your next Sri Lanka Local Tour Packages.
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