Airport Pickup & Scenic Drive to Sigiriya

Bandaranaike International Airport - The operator will personally greet you at the airport arrivals terminal with a sign displaying your name (they monitor your flight, so no need to worry about delays!). You won’t miss them!

Sigiriya - After your pickup, the journey begins with a 3-4 hour scenic drive to Sigiriya. This is a private tour, allowing for stops to enjoy a fresh king coconut, local fruits, or to capture photos along the way.

Depending on your flight’s arrival time, there might be an opportunity to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple today. If it’s too late, don’t worry! Both Sigiriya and Dambulla will be explored tomorrow.

The operator will ensure a safe and comfortable journey to your hotel. Please note that accommodation is NOT included in this tour, but assistance in booking the best hotels within your budget is available upon request.

Dambulla Cave Temple - If your flight arrives early and you have the time and energy, a visit to the impressive Dambulla Cave Temple can be arranged today. If not, no problem! It will be explored tomorrow.

Explore Sigiriya, Dambulla & Village Life

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - The day starts early (around 7:00 AM) to avoid the heat and climb the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock). This UNESCO World Heritage site is a 5th-century palace built on a massive 200m high rock. As you ascend, you’ll see the world-famous ‘Cloud Maiden’ frescoes, the ancient Mirror Wall, and the giant lion’s paws carved into the rock. The 360-degree panoramic view from the summit is one of the most breathtaking in Sri Lanka.

Hiriwadunna Village & Jeep Safari No 4 - After the climb, immerse yourself in authentic Sri Lankan village life. This tour begins with a traditional bullock cart ride through a quiet village. Then, enjoy a peaceful canoe (oruwa) trip across a scenic lake, where you can spot birds and lily pads. Finally, walk to a local home where a village family will prepare a delicious, multi-course Sri Lankan lunch for you using traditional methods.

Pidurangala Rock - In the late afternoon, take on the second climb: Pidurangala Rock. This is a more rustic hike (with a bit of fun rock scrambling at the top) that leads to an ancient Buddhist monastery and a giant reclining Buddha statue. The real reward is at the summit: the single best, most spectacular sunset view of Sigiriya Rock.

Journey to Kandy: Spices, Culture & the Sacred Temple

Kandy - Today, leave the Cultural Triangle and drive (approx. 2.5 hours) south to Sri Lanka’s last royal capital, the beautiful hill-city of Kandy.

If the Dambulla Cave Temple was not visited on Day 01, it will be the first stop today before continuing the journey to Kandy.

Matale Herbal and Spice Garden - On the way to Kandy, stop at a traditional Spice & Herbal Garden in Matale. Enjoy a fascinating free tour to see how world-famous spices like cinnamon, pepper, cloves, vanilla, and nutmeg grow. Learn about their traditional Ayurvedic medicinal uses and enjoy a complimentary cup of herbal tea.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - After settling into the Kandy hotel, visit the most revered site in Sri Lanka: the Sri Dalada Maligawa, or Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. This stunning UNESCO World Heritage site houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and is the heart of the country’s spiritual life. Explore the beautiful royal palace complex and (if timed right) witness the traditional ‘Pooja’ (offering) ceremony.

Kandy - Depending on your interest, take a tour of Kandy city. This can include optional stops at a Silk Garden (to see batik making), a Wood Carving center (to see traditional masks), or a Gem Store & Museum (to see Sri Lanka’s famous sapphires). These are not mandatory shopping stops; they are purely for your interest.

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show - You have the option to watch a vibrant Kandyan Cultural Dance Show. This one-hour performance showcases the traditional music, acrobatic dance, and elaborate costumes of the hill country, concluding with a thrilling fire-walking display.

The Scenic Hill Country: Gardens, Waterfalls & “Little England”

Royal Botanic Gardens Peradenja Kandy - Before leaving Kandy, visit the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens, once reserved only for Kandyan royalty. These sprawling 147-acre grounds are a paradise of giant bamboo, a spectacular orchid house, cannonball trees, and the iconic avenue of royal palms. It’s a beautiful, peaceful walk.

Ramboda Waterfall - As the journey continues higher into the mountains, stop at a scenic viewpoint to admire the stunning Ramboda Waterfall. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and tallest falls, cascading down the green hills—a perfect photo opportunity on the journey.

Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden - This is an essential Sri Lankan experience! Visit a lush, high-altitude tea plantation. A guide will take you on a complimentary factory tour to see the full “leaf to cup” process—from withering and rolling to drying and grading.

After the tour, enjoy a free cup of fresh, unblended Ceylon tea while looking out over the plantations.

If you wish, join the tea pluckers in the fields to get a hands-on experience of plucking your own “two leaves and a bud.”

Nuwara Eliya Golf Course - Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” for its cool climate and colonial-era architecture. Take an optional city tour, which can include:

1. The Post Office: A charming, red-brick Tudor-style building from 1894. It’s one of the oldest and most iconic post offices in Sri Lanka.

2. Gregory Lake: A beautiful, serene lake in the center of town where you can (optionally) take a boat ride, a pony ride, or simply enjoy a peaceful walk.

The World’s Most Scenic Train Ride & Hiking in Ella

Ella - Check out of the Nuwara Eliya hotel and take a beautiful 2-hour scenic drive down from the high tea country to the vibrant, relaxed mountain town of Ella. The journey itself is filled with stunning views of valleys and tea plantations. After arriving, check into your hotel and get ready to explore.

Little Adam’s Peak View Point - The first activity in Ella is an easy, rewarding hike up Little Adam’s Peak. The walk takes about 1 hour (round trip) and winds through lush tea estates. From the summit, you’ll get a breathtaking 360-degree view of the massive Ella Rock and the deep Ella Gap.

Nine Arches Bridge - Next, visit the most iconic photo spot in Sri Lanka: the Nine Arch Bridge. This massive colonial-era viaduct, built entirely of brick and cement (no steel!), is an architectural marvel hidden in a lush jungle and tea valley.

A FREE Experience For You: To make this visit special, travel to the bridge via a local Tuk-Tuk tour, which is included as a complimentary (FREE) experience from us!

The Great Ella Rock Hike & Optional Local Experiences

Ella Rock - This day is designed to be flexible, mixing one of Sri Lanka’s most rewarding hikes with optional, relaxing cultural activities. Choose to do the hike and then relax, or fill your day with all that Ella has to offer.
Embark on the main hike in Ella: the trek to the summit of Ella Rock. This is a more challenging hike than Little Adam’s Peak (approx. 2 hours one-way) that takes you through a forest and along a scenic railway line. Your guide will lead the way, ensuring you take the best path. The effort is rewarded with one of the most famous and breathtaking views in all of Sri Lanka, looking back down into the Ella Gap.

Travel to Tissamaharama (Yala Safari Optional)

Ravana Ella Falls - As you check out and drive out of Ella, the first stop will be the famous Ravana Waterfall. Cascading down the mountainside, this powerful waterfall is one of the widest in Sri Lanka and is linked to the famous Ramayana legend. Stop for a great photo opportunity as you say goodbye to the highlands.

Tissamaharama - Travel south to Tissamaharama (approx. 3 hours). After checking into the hotel, relax and enjoy lunch. Optional Activity: If you wish to experience a wildlife safari in Yala National Park, it can be arranged for the afternoon. Please note that the Safari Jeep cost and Park Entrance tickets are NOT included in the package price and must be paid separately.

Coastal Wonders: Yala to the Historic Galle Fort

Galle - Check out from Yala and begin the scenic drive (approx. 2-3 hours) from the jungle to the beautiful south coast.

A Note on Your Hotel: Choose your overnight hotel in Mirissa, Unawatuna, or Galle—whichever you prefer! The operator will drop you at your chosen hotel after the final tour of Galle Fort.

(Whale Watching Note): The optional whale watching will be done on the morning of Day 09, as it requires a 6:00 AM start, which is much more relaxing from a coastal hotel.

Ahangama - The first stop is to see the iconic Stilt Fishermen. You’ll see the local men skillfully perched on single poles in the shallow water, a traditional fishing method unique to this part of Sri Lanka. It’s a fantastic photo opportunity.

Sea Turtle Farm and Hatchery - Habaraduwa - Visit a local sea turtle conservation project. Here, learn about the 5 different species of sea turtles that visit Sri Lanka’s shores. See the protected nests, learn how they rescue injured turtles, and see the tiny, adorable 1-3 day old baby turtles in the tanks before they are safely released into the ocean.

Galle - The main stop is the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This is not just a ruin, but a living city! Walk along the massive 400-year-old ramparts, see the famous Dutch Lighthouse, explore the charming cobblestone streets, and admire the colonial architecture. After the tour, the operator will drop you at your hotel.

Optional Whale Watching & Colombo City Sights

Whale watching Mirissa with Geeth - If you’ve chosen to go whale watching, there will be a very early start (approx. 6:00 AM) to board the boat. Mirissa is a world-renowned hotspot for spotting majestic Blue Whales (the largest animal on Earth!) and pods of playful dolphins.

If you skip this: Enjoy a relaxed breakfast at your hotel or enjoy the beach before beginning the drive to Colombo.

Colombo - After your morning activity (or a relaxed start), begin the journey to Colombo (approx. 2-3 hours), Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital city. Use the Southern Expressway for a fast, comfortable drive. The operator will take you to your hotel to check in before starting the city tour.

Gangaramaya (Vihara) Buddhist Temple - The first stop in the city is the famous Gangaramaya Temple. It’s one of Colombo’s most important temples, known for its unique blend of Sri Lankan, Thai, and Chinese architecture. It also features a fascinating museum room filled with a vast collection of unique artifacts and gifts.

Galle Face Green - Next, visit Galle Face Green, a large ocean-side urban park that stretches along the coast. It’s the city’s main “lung” and a popular spot for locals to fly kites, relax with their families, and enjoy the sea breeze. Take a walk along the promenade and see the historic Galle Face Hotel.

Independence Memorial Hall - The final stop is the iconic Independence Memorial Hall, located in Independence Square. This national monument was built to commemorate Sri Lanka’s independence in 1948. It’s an impressive stone structure surrounded by a peaceful park, popular with locals.

Colombo Bazaars & Departure

Pettah - If your flight is in the afternoon or evening, there’s time for one last adventure! Visit the famous Pettah Market. This is a huge, bustling, and energetic network of streets where you can find anything, from spices to fabrics. It’s the best place to see the real “hustle and bustle” of Colombo and (if you wish) try your hand at friendly bargaining—it’s all part of the experience! If you prefer, enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel.

Bandaranaike International Airport - After 10 wonderful days together, it’s time for the final drive. Following your optional Pettah visit or a relaxed morning, the operator will drive you safely to the Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). They will ensure you arrive comfortably and with plenty of time for your departure flight.

It has been a true pleasure and an honor to be your personal guide. The commitment to providing outstanding, personal service is unwavering, and sharing the rich culture and stunning beauty of the island home with you has been a joy.

We genuinely hope this has been one of the most memorable adventures of your life and that you are leaving with amazing stories and beautiful memories.

Thank you for choosing us. We wish you a safe and pleasant flight home.

Ayubowan! (May you live long!)

• Daily Breakfast (B&B Option only)
• Driver’s food and accommodation
• Complementary bottled water in the vehicle
• Service of a professional, English-speaking driver/guide for 10 days
• Breakfast
• All highway tolls, expressway fees, and vehicle parking fees
• Private transportation
• 9 Nights 3-4 Star Hotel (B&B Option only)
• FREE complimentary Tuk-Tuk Tour to the Nine Arch Bridge

• Cost of drinks & alcoholic beverages
• Tips for your driver/guide (at your discretion)
• All Lunches and All Dinners

Discover Sri Lanka on your terms with this 10-day, fully customizable private tour. Choose from two distinct packages to suit your travel preferences:

‘Driver Only’ Package: Ideal for those who prefer to arrange their own accommodations.

‘B&B with Driver’ Package: A seamless experience where we handle all your 3-4 star hotel bookings and breakfasts.

Both packages include a knowledgeable local driver-guide, a modern air-conditioned vehicle, and a complimentary Tuk-Tuk tour to the Nine Arch Bridge in Ella.

This is your journey. Experience the island’s highlights: ascend Sigiriya, visit Kandy’s temples, trek in Ella, enjoy a safari in Yala, and stroll along the historic Galle Fort walls. We will customize the itinerary and pace to suit your preferences.

• Fully Customizable Itinerary
• Choice of “Driver Only” or “B&B” package
• Private English-speaking driver-guide
• Modern, private air-conditioned vehicle
• Complimentary Tuk-Tuk tour to Nine Arch Bridge
• Comprehensive airport pickup and drop-off service

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.