Best of Sri Lanka in 14 Days – Temples, Safaris & Coastlines Tour

Embark on an enthralling adventure in Sri Lanka, where you will navigate lively markets, discover age-old marvels, and admire significant historical landmarks. Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage, wander through breathtaking Botanical Gardens, and trek in picturesque national parks. Partake in an exhilarating game drive, observe the unique practice of stilt fishing, and unwind on pristine beaches, creating lasting memories on this mesmerizing island.

Inclusion

• Accommodation
• Private Driver/Guide
• Tour Consultant
• Airport Assistance
• Government Taxes
• Airport Pick-up

Tour Theme

• Beach
• Culture
• History
• Wild Life
• City Tours
• Nature

Day 01

Negombo

A scenic coastal town, famous for its lively fishing industry, and beautiful beaches. Explore the bustling fish market, indulge in fresh seafood, and admire colonial architecture. With its rich culture, and relaxed vibe, it’s an ideal starting point for your Sri Lankan adventure.

Activities

• Arrive in Sri Lanka
• Transfer to Negombo
• Warm welcome by your Olanka Travels representative
• Welcome meeting at 6:00 pm and Dinner

Negombo Highlights

• St. Mary’s Church
• Enjoying Sunset
• Negombo Fish Market
• Local interactions
• Muthurajawela Wetland
• Ayurveda Relaxation

Day 02

Dambulla

Dambulla, a captivating town in Sri Lanka, is renowned for its stunning cave temples, featuring intricate Buddha statues and vibrant frescoes. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and immerse yourself in the country’s rich cultural heritage and spiritual history.

Activities

• Visit to Negombo Fish Market
• Proceed to Dambulla
• Visit a coconut plantation
• A ride in bullock cart
• Glide across the lake by a catamaran
• A traditional village tour and local lunch

Dambulla Highlights

• Ridi Viharaya Temple
• Catamaran Ride
• Culinery Experience
• Paddy Field Walk
• Sri Lankan Cuisine
• Toddy Tapping

Day 03

Anuradhapura & Minneriya

Anuradhapura, an ancient Sri Lankan capital and UNESCO site captivates with towering stupas, monasteries, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, a symbol of enlightenment. Nearby, Minneriya National Park offers the spectacle of wild elephants, adding nature’s charm to the cultural journey.

Activities

• Explore the 1st ancient capital, Anuradhapura
• Visit to the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
• Explore historical stupas
• Afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park

Anuradhapura & Minneriya Highlights

• Isurumuniya Temple
• Samadhi Statue
• Kayaking At Kala Wewa
• Learn about Buddism
• Minneriya Safari
• Loris Walk

Day 04

Polonnaruwa & Sigiriya

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO medieval capital, showcases ancient temples, stupas and intricately carved Buddha statues embodying Sri Lanka’s architectural splendor. Nearby, Sigiriya rock fortress adds breathtaking views and a remarkable blend of nature and history to this enriching experience.

Activities

• Explore the 2nd ancient capital, Polonnaruwa
• Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunset

Polonnaruwa & Sigiriya Highlights

• Sigiriya Frescoes
• Meditation
• Wood Carving
• Village Cycle Ride
• Polonnaruwa
• Jungle Hike

Day 05 – Kandy

Kandy is nestled in Sri Lanka’s lush hills, and is renowned for the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. It offers stunning views of Kandy Lake and vibrant markets. Explore the Botanical Gardens and enjoy traditional dance performances, blending spirituality, nature and rich heritage.

Activities

• Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
• Exploration of a spice garden in Matale
• Stroll down Kandy Lake at dusk
• Visit a gem lapidary
• Enjoy Kandyan Dancing Performance

Kandy Highlights

• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Spice Garden
• Local Craftsmanship
• Ambuluwawa Tower
• Gem Crafting
• St. Pavel Church

Day 06

Kandy

Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, offers a rich cultural experience in a scenic setting. Nearby Peradeniya enchants with its Royal Botanical Gardens, and picturesque university by the Mahaweli River, creating a perfect blend of heritage, natural beauty, and colonial-era charm.

Activities

• Visit Royal Botanical Garden
• Tour Suriyakantha Center for Kandyan heritage
• Visit The Temple of Tooth Relic
• Street food Stroll

Kandy Highlights

• Kandy Lake
• Bahirawakanda Statue
• Royal Botanical Garden
• Traditional Batik
• Kandy City Walk
• Local Community

Day 07 -Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” is a hill station famed for its tea plantations and cool climate. Visitors can explore stunning landscapes, hike scenic trails and enjoy high tea at historic estates. The colonial architecture, and breathtaking views make it an ideal retreat.

Activities

• Scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya
• High tea at the Grand Hotel
• Tour a tea factory and plantation

Nuwara Eliya Highlights

• Old Post Office
• High Tea
• Scenic Train Ride
• Nanu Oya
• Lake Gregory
• Colonial Architecture

Day 08

Horton Plains

Horton Plains National Park is a reserve in Sri Lanka, known for its landscapes and biodiversity. Explore scenic trails, including the World’s End viewpoint for panoramic views. With unique flora and fauna, it’s a paradise for nature lovers, offering encounters with sambar deer and more.

Activities

• Trek at Horton Plains National Park (Optional Activity)
• Nuwara Eliya city walk

Horton Plains Highlights

• Strawberry Farm
• Seetha Amman Kovil
• Ambewela
• Hortan Plains
• Local Interaction
• Baker’s Waterfall

Day 09

Ella

Ella is a town in Sri Lanka’s hill country, famous for its landscapes and tea plantations. Explore scenic hikes and marvel at the iconic Nine Arches Bridge. With its vibrant local markets and relaxing atmosphere, Ella offers the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.

Activities

• Sri Lankan cooking class in Ella
• Visit Nine Arches Bridge
• Hike to Little Adam’s Peak

Ella Highlights

• Nine Arch Bridge
• Ella Swing
• Adisham Monastery
• Ravana Pool Club
• Ella Wala Falls
• Zipline in Ella

Day 10

Yala

Yala National Park is famous for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. Home to leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species, it offers thrilling safaris. Explore its varied ecosystems while witnessing the rich flora and fauna in their natural habitat.

Activities

• Game drive in Yala National Park
• Visit Kataragama Holy City

Yala Highlights

• Kirinda Viharaya Temple
• Sloth Bear in Yala
• Jeep Safari
• Kataragama Shrine
• Wild Spotted Deers
• Sundowner Cocktails

Day 11

Galle

Galle is a coastal city in Sri Lanka, known for its historic fort and colonial architecture. Wander through streets filled with boutiques and cafés, visit ancient churches, & admire ocean views from the fort’s ramparts. Its atmosphere and rich culture make Galle a captivating destination.

Activities

• Visit Elephant Transit Home
• Visit stilt fishermen in Ahangama
• Explore Galle Fort

Galle Highlights

• Tuk Tuk Ride
• Elephant Transit Home
• Stilt Fishermen
• Cinnamon Experience
• Dutch Reformed Church
• Regional Neighbourhood

Day 12 – Bentota

Bentota is a coastal town in Sri Lanka, famous for its beaches and lagoons. Enjoy water sports, relax on the sandy shores, or take a tranquil boat ride on the Madu River. With its greenery and atmosphere, Bentota is perfect for adventure seekers and those looking to unwind in paradise.

Activities

• Beach day in Bentota
• Visit a turtle conservation project
• Madu River boat safari

Bentota Highlights

• Kande Vihara Temple
• Turtle Conservation
• Yoga
• Fish Theraphy
• Water Sports in Bentota
• Madu River Wetland

Day 13

Colombo

Colombo offers a vibrant mix of modernity and tradition. Explore its lively markets, historic sites, and stunning waterfronts. Enjoy a variety of dining options, from street food to upscale restaurants, and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Activities

• Guided city tour of Colombo
• Walking tour of Colombo bazaar
• Farewell dinner in Colombo

Colombo Highlights

• Old Light House
• Red Mosque
• Street Foods
• Shopping
• Lotus Tower
• Colonial Heritage

Inclusions

• Private arrival transfer from Colombo to all point-to-point transfers and included activities as a group in an air-conditioned vehicle
• Meals included as 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 13 dinners, and 1 high tea
• Accommodation options are single rooms or double/triple sharing at the confirmed hotel or a similar one
• An English-speaking chauffeur guide is available for groups of up to 5 people while for groups of 6 or more, an English-speaking national guide is included
• Entrance fees are included for major attractions including, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Temple of the Tooth Relic, Seetha Amman Temple, Elephant Transit Home, and Turtle Conservation Centre
• Enjoy Sri Lankan folk music entertainment and a visit to the Suriyakantha Centre, a private museum. Attend a Kandyan Dance Show and take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, subject to seat availability
• Visit a tea plantation and tea factory with a hands-on tea plucking experience
• Photo opportunity with Stilt Fishermen
• Explore the Madu River by boat which is a Ramsar Wetland
• Experience half-day jeep safaris at Minneriya National Park and Yala National Park
• Visit Negombo Fish Market in the early morning
• Explore Kandy’s street food, take a leisure walk in Nuwara Eliya and hike to Little Adam’s Peak
• Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage
• Walk through Colombo Bazaar with street shopping
• Learn to make Sri Lankan hoppers in Dambulla & participate in a hands-on Sri Lankan culinary experience with a local family

Exclusions

• Departure transfer from Colombo and any other private transfers not mentioned in the itinerary
• Flight tickets and visas
• Any meals not mentioned in the itinerary
• Tips
• Any other personal expenses
• Pre and post accommodation
• Personal travel insurance

Terms & Conditions

Booking Information

Upon submission of your booking details, we will proceed with the booking process. At this stage, a 20% deposit is required. A booking confirmation will be sent to you within 48 hours of payment receipt. The remaining 80% of the payment is due 30 days prior to the commencement of the tour. Subsequently, you may proceed with the visa application process.

Cancellation Policy

All travel offers listed on our website are discounted. As such, all orders are non-refundable, and cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion. Thus, no refund for Cancellations made with less than 30 days from the start of a tour and for No-show.

Change of Accommodation

For some trips, we have arranged alternative hotels due to the unavailability of the original hotel listed in the itinerary. we will send the list of hotels for each departure along with the confirmation voucher.

Travel Insurance We recommend that you have your own travel insurance and share the insurance details with us before you travel.

Destination – Negombo-Dambulla-Anuradhapura-Sigiriya-Kandy-Nuwara Eliya-Horton-Ella-Yala-Galle-Colombo

Duration: 13 Nights / 14 Days

Features

• Air conditioning
• Instant Book