16 Days Explore Sri Lanka
Price from NZD 3951 / AUD 3556 per person on twin sharing basis
Colombo – Dambulla – Sigiriya Rock – Anuradhapura – Minneriya – Polonnaruwa–Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Yala – Galle - Mt. Lavinia – Colombo
Embark on an unforgettable 16-day tour of Sri Lanka, beginning in the charming town of Negombo. Explore the historic Mannar and Jaffna regions, before marveling at the awe-inspiring Sigiriya rock fortress and soaking up the cultural richness of Kandy. Enjoy the picturesque landscapes of Nuwara Eliya, Ella, and Yala National Park, spotting exotic wildlife along the way. Unwind on the stunning beaches of Galle before returning to the vibrant city of Colombo. This tour is an immersive journey through Sri Lanka's rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture.
Tour Highlights: Minneriya National Park, Lion Rock, Spice Garden, Ancient Capital of Anuradhapura, Yala National Park
Day 1: Colombo
Arrive in Colombo and transfer to Hotel
Day 2: Colombo (B)
Take a morning tour of Colombo visiting Fort, former British military garrison, Sea Street - the Goldsmith’s quarters, Bazaar, a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, Dutch Church of Wolfendhal and Independence Square. The afternoon is free.
Day 3: Colombo - Minneriya - Dambulla (B)
This morning, drive for Dambulla en route visiting Minneriya National Park for a safari to see world’s biggest gathering of wild elephants.
Day 4: Dambulla- Sigiriya-Dambulla (B)
A day trip to Sigiriya, home to 5th century Fortress in the Sky, also known as Lion Rock because of the huge lion that used to stand at the entrance to this fortress. On its summit are the foundations of what was once a great palace and gardens.
Day 5: Dambulla – Anuradhapura – Dambulla (B)
A day trip to Anuradhapura, from where Sinhalese Kings ruled for over 1000 years. It is the most extensive and important of the Sri Lankan ancient cities, famous for its Temples, Reservoirs, and beautifully landscaped gardens, the ruins of which still remain to this day.
Day 6: Dambulla – Polonnaruwa – Dambulla (B)
A day trip to Polonnaruwa, which has some splendid and spectacular statues. Lankatilake, Tivanka and Thuparama are the most beautiful and largest Image Houses and Tivanka has the best examples of frescoes of the Polonnaruwa period.
Day 7: Dambulla – Kandy (B)
This morning drive to the Sacred City of Kandy en route visiting the Spice Garden in Matale. Today evening, you will have an insight into Sri Lankan cooking with a cooking class with Shantha Mayadunne. Blending her 30 years of experience in the field of culinary art, Shantha Mayadunne today is a household name in Sri Lanka.
Day 8: Kandy (B)
The morning is at leisure. Afternoon commences with a tour visiting the Upper Lake Drive, Market Square, Arts & Crafts Centre, Gem Museum and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Also visit Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a 14th century pleasure retreat of the Pandyan kings.
Day 9: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya (B)
This morning, drive to Nuwara Eliya - The ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, is set against beautiful backdrops of Mountains, Valleys, Waterfalls and Tea Plantations. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the British influence.
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya (B)
Take a morning sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya. A trip to the highlands of Sri Lanka is never complete without witnessing the age-old traditional tea plucking and sipping a cup of “Ceylon Tea”.
Day 11: Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Yala (B)
Transfer to train station for a scenic train trip to Ella. On arrival, transfer to Hotel in Yala. Rest of the day is at leisure
Day 12: Yala (B)
This morning, take a Safari at Yala National Park by Jeep. This is the most famous National Park where wild animals and birds could be observed. The Wild animals include Elephants in herds of varying sizes, Leopards, Wild Boar, Wild Buffalo, Crocodiles, and Peacocks, Jackal, Sloth Bear and other animals. Also, take an afternoon safari in the National Park to enjoy viewing wildlife as the sun sets.
Day 13: Yala – Galle (B)
Leave for Galle and visit Galle Dutch Fort in the afternoon. This city has the most ancient and important harbour in the country.
Day 14: Galle (B)
Day at leisure.
Day 15: Galle – Mt. Lavinia (B)
This morning proceed to Mount Lavinia, on the edge of Colombo city. The afternoon is at leisure.
Day 16: Mt. Lavinia – Colombo (B)
Transfer to the Colombo airport for your onward flight.
Included: Accommodation for 15 nights, meals as per the itinerary, transfers, jungle safaris, sightseeing as indicated with English speaking driver-guide and entrances
Departs: Daily
Add-on: Beach stays close to Colombo or in Maldives