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Sri Lanka Heritage, Hill Country & Beach Tour (10 Days)

Ten days of ancient cities, Kandy, tea country, the Ella train, a Yala safari and the beaches of Bentota.

A complete ten day tour of Sri Lanka’s highlights. Travel from Negombo to Anuradhapura, Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, continue to Kandy and the tea hills of Nuwara Eliya, take the train to Ella, spot leopards in Yala and relax on the beach in Bentota.

Route: Negombo → Anuradhapura → Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Yala → Bentota → BIA

Day by Day Itinerary

Day01

Arrival & Relax in Negombo

  • Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)
  • Transfer to Negombo (20–30 min)
  • Relax at the beach or explore:
    • Dutch Canal, Negombo Fish Market, St. Mary’s Church

Overnight stay in Negombo

Day02

Negombo → Anuradhapura

  • Drive to Anuradhapura (approx. 4 hrs) – Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital
  • Explore:
    • Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, Isurumuniya Temple, Samadhi Buddha

Overnight stay in Anuradhapura

Day03

Anuradhapura → Sigiriya

  • Morning drive to Sigiriya (approx. 2.5 hrs)
  • Evening climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
    • Explore frescoes, gardens, and panoramic views

Overnight stay in Sigiriya

Day04

Polonnaruwa, Minneriya Safari & Return to Sigiriya

  • Morning transfer to Polonnaruwa – explore the 2nd ancient capital:
    • Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, Vatadage, Parakrama Samudra
  • Afternoon Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park:
    • Spot elephants, deer, and birds
  • Return to Sigiriya

Overnight stay in Sigiriya

Day05

Sigiriya → Kandy

  • Visit Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO Site)
  • Stop at Matale Spice Garden
  • Continue to Kandy – cultural capital
  • Visit Temple of the Tooth Relic & attend Kandyan dance show

Overnight stay in Kandy

Day06

Kandy → Nuwara Eliya

  • Scenic drive through tea plantations
  • Visit a tea factory, Ramboda Falls
  • In Nuwara Eliya: explore Gregory Lake, local markets, colonial landmarks

Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya

Day07

Train Ride to Ella

  • Transfer to Nanu Oya Station
  • Enjoy a breathtaking train journey to Ella (3–4 hrs):
    • See lush valleys, tea estates, and mountain vistas
  • Visit Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak

Overnight stay in Ella

Day08

Ella → Yala National Park

  • Morning departure to Yala (approx. 3 hrs)
  • Evening Jeep Safari in Yala National Park:
    • Spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, birds

Overnight stay near Yala

Day09

Yala → Bentota via Kosgoda & Madu River

  • Scenic drive along the coast to Bentota (approx. 5–6 hrs)
  • Visit:
    • Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery
    • Madu River Boat Safari – explore mangroves and islands
  • Relax on Bentota beach

Overnight stay in Bentota

Day10

Bentota → Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA)

  • After breakfast, transfer to BIA for your departure (approx. 2 hrs)

End of your unforgettable Sri Lankan journey

Journey Highlights

  • Trip Length: 10 Days / 9 Nights
  • Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress (UNESCO)
  • Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Polonnaruwa ancient city
  • Anuradhapura sacred city
  • Minneriya elephant safari
  • Spice garden and Ayurveda
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy
  • Kandyan cultural dance show
  • Tea plantation and factory visit
  • Scenic hill country train ride

Travel Tips

  • Cover shoulders and knees when visiting temples and sacred sites.
  • Train seats to Ella sell out in high season, so book early.
  • Safaris start early, so bring a hat, sunscreen and binoculars.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Is this a private tour?
Yes. You travel with your own driver guide in a private air-conditioned vehicle.
Q. Can the itinerary be changed?
Yes. Every tour can be tailored to your dates, budget, hotel standard and interests.