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Sri Lanka Private Adventure 14D/13N

This comprehensive 14-day private itinerary offers an unforgettable grand tour of Sri Lanka, seamlessly blending historic wonder, high-altitude trekking, rich wildlife encounters, and coastal relaxation.

Starting in the coastal town of Negombo, the journey takes travellers through the Cultural Triangle to marvel at ancient fortresses and cave temples, into the misty central highlands of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella for scenic hikes and train rides, and down to the southern coast for elephant rehabilitation and beachside leisure.

Concluding with a cultural exploration of the bustling capital, Colombo, this itinerary showcases the absolute best of the island’s diverse heritage and natural beauty.

Tour Highlights

  • Explore centuries of history at the UNESCO World Heritage Sites of Sigiriya Rock Fortress—climbing past the massive “Lion Paws”—and the Dambulla Cave Temple, home to a vast collection of golden Buddha statues and ancient murals.

  • Witness the world’s largest gathering of wild elephants at Minneriya National Park, and visit both the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home to observe the rehabilitation of orphaned calves.

  • Experience the central highlands by embarking on panoramic hikes to Little Adam’s Peak and Ella Rock, visiting the architectural marvel of the Nine Arch Bridge, and riding the famously scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella.

  • Immerse yourself in the cool, “Little England” atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya, tour a classic Ceylon tea plantation and factory, and wander the 3.5-century-old ramparts of the historic Dutch Fort in the southern capital of Galle.

  • Go glamping in the pristine Knuckles Mountain Range, with options for a bird-watching trek to spot regional endemic species, a hidden waterfall hike, or a cultural walk along the untainted Heel Oya Village Trail.

Price from

$2,990.00

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Tour Information

Inclusions:

  • - 13 Nights Accommodation in standard rooms on Bed & Breakfast basis
  • - Entrance Fees: Minneriya National Park, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pinnawala Elephant orphanage, Dambulla, Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, Cultural Show, Ella Rock & Elephant Transit Home.
  • - Jeep at Minneriya
  • - Train Ticket.
  • - Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle as per the above itinerary.
  • - English-Speaking Chauffer Guide

Exclusions:

  • - Lunch and dinner where not mentioned.
  • - Optional activities.
  • - Tips.
  • - Beverages throughout the tour.
  • - Expenses of a personal nature.
  • - Any other services not specified above

Departures:

Please contact our Sales team for the latest departures.

Itinerary

Day 1: Negombo Arrival

After arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our representative and transferred to Negombo, a coastal town known for its colonial heritage and fishing culture.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure to relax after your flight.

You may enjoy a stroll along the beach, explore the nearby fishing village, or simply unwind at the hotel.

Overnight in Negombo.

Day 2: Negombo - Sigiriya

After breakfast, depart for Sigiriya, travelling through Sri Lanka’s scenic countryside.

En route, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. As you enter the 25-acre coconut property, do not be surprised to witness baby elephants being bottle fed or moving around freely causing absolutely no harm to anyone. It is rightly a sincere sight to observe how these gentle giants – orphaned and sometimes three-legged – are taken care of since 1975 at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Up to date, over 20 calves have been born here, and it is surprising to hear that some of its inmates have even seen their grandchildren during the past few decades! Watch as they feed at 9:15 am, 1:15 pm & 5:00 pm and take a river bath twice a day at 10:00 am & 2:00 pm respectively for an experience that could never be felt anywhere else on earth!

Continue the journey towards Sigiriya and, in the evening, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring impressive Buddha statues and ancient murals inside a series of cave shrines. In the city of Dambulla lies a hub which has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today, an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in magnificently constructed 5 cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country’s economic and cultural uplifting.

Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxed evening.

Overnight in Sigiriya.

Day 3: Sigiriya - Minneriya - Sigiriya

After breakfast, proceed to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Climb the ancient rock citadel to admire the frescoes, Mirror Wall, Lion’s Paws, and breath-taking views from the summit. The 5th century rock citadel of King Kashyapa and World Heritage Site – Sigiriya – doesn’t only boasts of ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy but also acclaims to be one of the finest monuments of art & culture. Step through the gigantic ‘Lion Paws’ – overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below – to comprehend the absolute splendour that once dominated this rock fortress.

Surrounded by ramparts & moats the Lion Rock – resembling the mythological ‘City of Gods’ – is coated by frescoes that relate to Gupta style paintings found in Ajanta caves of India. Walk in the shade of an eminent ‘mirror wall’ embracing the Western face of Sigiriya representing an artistic hundred meters laminated with graffiti. Wander into the well-fabricated museum downstairs for an epic journey of yesteryears to realize how the citadel floated above citizens with the castle, ponds and irrigation systems that pumped water right onto its summit with an ingenious hydraulic system describing a colossal masterpiece of the great king which remained a wonder in Asia for centuries.

In the afternoon, head out for an exciting jeep safari at Minneriya National Park, famous for its large gatherings of wild elephants, especially during the dry season. If you’re up for a serious rumble in the jungle, then Minneriya is your Colosseum! Spreading over 8800 hectares, this is a sanctuary for elephants. Minneriya is home to herds of deer and ample birdlife, but its spotlight remains between swaying trunks & flapping ears. Park your jeep on the bank of the reservoir and switch off its engine. Watch carefully as herds of elephants – one by one – roll on to the grass-covered banks, to feed on tender shoots. In fact, this is the largest elephant gathering in the world – over 300 at a time – which has garnished the park into a magnet for wildlife enthusiasts across the globe.

Return to the hotel in the evening for leisure.

Overnight in Sigiriya.

Day 4: Sigiriya - Knuckles

After breakfast, depart for the scenic Knuckles region, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful mountain landscapes.

Upon arrival, you may take part in optional activities such as the Waterfall Trek, Heel Oya Village Trail, or Bird Watching Trails, offering a closer look at local village life, rich biodiversity, and stunning natural scenery.

Optional Tour: Bird Watching Trails (Approx. 3 hours)

Knuckles Forest Reserve, a haven for ornithologists and bird enthusiasts, boasts 128 bird species, with 17 being regionally endemic. Frequent sightings include the Black Eagle, Palebilled Flowerpecker, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Yellow-eared Bulbuls, Babblers, and Whitethroated Kingfishers. As a bird lover and nature enthusiast, an evening stroll becomes a must to encounter these magnificent creatures. Cherish memories of cool breezes, misty hills, and a fulfilled spirit, taking the essence of this paradise with you. The Knuckles range promises an unforgettable experience, celebrating the beauty of diverse avian life amidst its natural splendour. We recommend the start times 6.00 a.m. and 4.00 p.m. for best sightings.

The rest of the day is free to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of the Knuckles range

Overnight Glamping in Knuckles.

Day 5: Knuckles - Kandy

Optional Tour: Waterfall Trek (Approx. 6 hours)

Venture into the hidden wonders of Knuckles Forest Reserve to discover a captivating waterfall. Depart your luxurious haven at sunrise, trekking through terraced tea plantations and lush green forests with your guide. Enjoy the abundance of flora on this moderately challenging trail, leading you to a serene waterfall secluded amidst nature’s splendor. Delight in a packed lunch at the tranquil site, where peace and verdant beauty embrace you in harmony. Experience the blissful solitude of this hidden gem, far away from the world’s gaze, and create unforgettable memories amidst nature’s embrace. We recommend starting at 7.00 a.m. A trekking guide, leech socks, packed lunch and trekking poles (on availability) will be provided.

Optional Tour: Heel Oya Village Trail (Approx. 3 ½ hours)

A tranquil journey down a comfortable trail leading to the untainted village of “Heel Oya” at Knuckles’ foothills, untouched by mass tourism. Wander through tea estates, pine forests, terraced paddy fields, and misty hills, immersing yourself in inspiring viewpoints. Embrace nature’s poetry as you revel in the beauty around you. Take a refreshing dip in a cooling waterhole en route to the village. Immerse yourself in the authentic Sri Lankan lifestyle, discovering traditional terraced paddy cultivation. We recommend Heel Oya on the date of departure where your chauffeur will pick you from the village.

On completion, travel from the Knuckles region to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax.

In the evening, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist relic.

Later, enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance, showcasing vibrant costumes, drumming, and fire walking.

Overnight in Kandy.

Day 6: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, depart for Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” due to its cool climate and colonial charm.

En route, stop at the picturesque Ramboda Waterfalls.

Ramboda Falls is a stunning waterfall located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, near the town of Nuwara Eliya. It is one of the tallest waterfalls in the country, with a height of about 109 meters (358 feet). The falls are situated on the Pussellawa-Ohiya road, nestled among lush greenery and tea plantations, which adds to the picturesque beauty of the area. The waterfall is a two-tiered cascade, where the water flows in a split stream before merging into a single drop.

Ramboda Falls is easily accessible for visitors, with a viewpoint offering a clear view of the waterfall from a distance, though it’s also possible to get closer for a more immersive experience. The surrounding environment is serene, with cool mountain air, dense forests, and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a popular spot for nature lovers and tourists exploring Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

On completion visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous Ceylon tea production process, followed by a tasting session.

Continue to Nuwara Eliya and spend the evening at leisure exploring the town.

Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 7: Nuwara Eliya - Ella

After breakfast, transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station to board one of the most scenic train journeys in the world, travelling through misty mountains, tea estates, and valleys en route to Ella.

(Train Tickets are strictly subject to availability & will be confirmed only 21 Days prior to the date of travel in the train)

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and relax. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy the cool climate and laid-back atmosphere of Ella.

Overnight in Ella.

Day 8: Ella

After breakfast, set out for a sunrise trek to Little Adam’s Peak, offering panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations.

Don’t defiance the beautiful tourism site in Sri Lanka, Little Adams Peak whether considering the word ‘Little’, it is named after the sacred Adams Peak (Sri Pada –where the foot print of Lord Buddha is preserved) regarding the similarity between the two mountains. Therefore, the mountain was called Little Adams Peak. “Punchi Sri Pada” is another name for this peak. It is 1141 m in height. Little Adam’s Peak attracts many travellers who come to Sri Lanka. Gradually with an easy hike up to the mountain of Little Adams Peak you can consummation a worth panoramic view. You must walk through lush green tea plantations, waterfalls and paddy fields while enjoying the scenery.

In the afternoon, visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel set amidst lush greenery. The evening is at leisure to relax at cafés, enjoy the scenery, or unwind at the hotel.

Overnight in Ella.

Day 9: Ella

After breakfast, embark on an early morning hike to Ella Rock, a rewarding trek that offers stunning views from the summit.

Return to the hotel to rest and refresh.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, allowing you to relax, explore Ella town, or enjoy the peaceful surroundings at your own pace.

Overnight in Ella.

Day 10: Ella - Mirissa (via Udawalawe)

After breakfast, depart for the southern coastal town of Mirissa. En route, visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned elephant calves are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild.

Established in 1995, it caters to all injured elephants found in the area before releasing them into their natural habitat. So, make sure to just watch – rather than touch – these gentle giants as they feed, play, and mingle with each other, before heading into the wild with one another. On completion check-in at the hotel.

Continue to Mirissa and check in to your beachside hotel.

Spend the evening relaxing by the ocean.

Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 11: Mirissa

After breakfast, the morning is free, or you may opt for an optional whale watching excursion, offering a chance to see blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins.

Return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, enjoying Mirissa Beach, swimming, or relaxing by the shore.

Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 12: Mirissa - Colombo (via Galle)

After breakfast, travel along the southern coast towards Colombo.

En route, stop for a Galle city tour, including a visit to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing colonial architecture, charming streets, and ocean views.

Galle, the epic Southern capital, is the intersection where classic Dutch architecture meets a tropical setting creating a vivid atmosphere in beauty. Walk the Dutch-haunted streets listening to the creaks of wooden saloon doors and observe how European architecture mingles with South Asian traditions today flooding cultural enthusiasts on a global scale. Its original ramparts and bastions preserved up to date showcase evidence of a heritage preserved for more than 3 1/2 centuries.

Walk clockwise within the fort to observe the ‘old gate’ carrying the British coat of arms. Flanking the old gate is the Zwart bastion – the oldest of all – and the lighthouse standing 18 feet in its glory next to the Point Utrecht Bastion. This Dutch bliss is painted with streets that spread in a rectangular grid pattern pierced with houses carrying Dutch colonial style verandas.

Hop into the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex to be mesmerized by an array of souvenir selections. However, its hallmark stands a reality where the Dutch fort remains a working community with its usual buzz of administrative offices, court complex, commercial buildings, churches, and Southern folks frequenting its streets bracing the air of the Elysium of architecture, Galle!

Continue onwards to Colombo and check in to your hotel.

Overnight in Colombo.

Day 13: Colombo

After breakfast proceed on a guided city tour of Colombo.

The throbbing metropolis, Colombo – located in the West – is not only the country’s commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP flanking Colombo’s fancy urban development effort. Drive along the streets edging the crystal white Racecourse – horse racing hub in 1893 & World War II airstrip. Feel the buzz surrounding the upcoming inspiration, the Colombo Port City an offshore city featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track! Head along Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards ‘Arcade’ facing a historic way post, the Independence Square. Smell the scent of incense while listening to the chiming bells of Gangarama temple or jazz up to Colombo’s nightlife spiced by nightclubs & casinos that borderline its bustle. If you’re lucky, head into an exhibition at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) before swaying your head to an opera or play at Nelum Pokuna that should just drive your day into perfection!

The afternoon is free for shopping or leisure.

Overnight in Colombo.

Day 14: Colombo Departure

After breakfast, enjoy some free time until your scheduled transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight, marking the end of your memorable Sri Lanka journey.