Sri Lankan Splendors, From Ancient Cities to Pristine Beaches : 20 Days
Negombo
Duration
20 Days
Tour Type
Ecotourism
Location
Sri Lanka
Overview
This itinerary takes you on a journey through some of the most captivating destinations in Sri Lanka. Starting in Negombo, you'll spend a night at the hotel before embarking on sightseeing adventures. You'll visit the impressive Sigiriya rock fortress and the fascinating Dambulla Cave Temple before settling in at the hotel in Dambulla.
After a day of leisure, you'll explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and spend the night at hotel. The next day, you'll visit the abandoned city of Anuradhapura overnight stay at hotel in Dambulla.
Continuing your journey, you'll explore the cultural delights of Kandy, including a captivating cultural dance show and a visit to the famous Temple of the Tooth. The night will be spent at the hotel.
The itinerary then takes you to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can witness the gentle giants up close. You'll also visit a botanical garden and enjoy an elephant ride before returning to Kandy for another overnight stay.
Next, you'll head to Nuwara Eliya, known for its tea plantations and breathtaking scenery. You'll visit a tea factory, the enchanting Devon waterfall, and enjoy stunning views from a viewpoint. The night will be spent in Nuwara Eliya.
Continuing your journey, you'll explore the natural wonders of Ella, including the famous Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Falls, and Ravana's Cave. You'll also embark on a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, experiencing the beauty of the hill country.
The itinerary then takes you to Yala National Park for an exciting safari experience and Kumana Bird watching. You'll spend two nights in Yala, with a day of leisure in between.
Afterward, you'll head to Bentota, where you can relax on the beach and enjoy a boat safari on the Madu River. You'll also visit a cinnamon island and a turtle hatchery. Four nights will be spent in Bentota, allowing for plenty of relaxation and enjoyment.
Finally, you'll visit the bustling city of Colombo for some shopping and sightseeing before spending your last night in Sri Lanka. On the final day, you'll check out of your hotel and be dropped off at the airport.
This itinerary offers a diverse range of experiences, from ancient cities and cultural shows to natural wonders and beach relaxation, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage and natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
Included/Excluded
4 star Accommodation hotel. All rooms are air conditioned. Hotel breakfast & Dinner are included. We will send you full hotel information after your booking is completed.
English-speaking chauffeur guide We Do Offer German, French, Spanish Arabic on special request ( with additinal charge)
Breakfast & Dinner This tour offers Jain, Vegetarian, Vegan, Halal and Kosher food options on request. Simply let Apple Vacations Pvt Ltd know the food option that you prefer.
Water bottles Seasonal fruits Local Beer (Beer will not be served by any hotel and restaurant on Poya days (full moon) King Coconut (Subjet avalibility)
Air-conditioned vehicle Car or Van
Travel insurance ETA Visa Recommendation
International flights are not included
Insurance is not included
Personal Expenses Entrance Ticket Meal Other than specified Lunch Dec 24th night & Dec 31st night Supplements (peak season additional charge) need to pay directly to hotel as per hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival in Negombo
Day 1
Arrival in Negombo
You'll meet your tour representative at the airport with a paging board. After handling luggage and meeting your English-speaking chauffeur guide, you're transferred to your hotel in Negombo. The rest of the day is yours to recover from your journey and settle in.
Day 2
Negombo
Day 2
Negombo
Following breakfast, you'll board a boat and cruise through the mangrove forest near Negombo. Watch for water birds and see how local fishermen go about their daily work. Later you'll head back to the hotel for dinner and overnight.
Day 3
Negombo to Dambulla
Day 3
Negombo to Dambulla
After breakfast, travel to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll explore the ancient rock temple complex and see the intricate murals and Buddha statues carved centuries ago. Later, you can participate in authentic village activities to connect with local life before returning to your Dambulla hotel for dinner.
Day 4
Dambulla
Day 4
Dambulla
An optional early morning climb up Sigiriya Rock Fortress lets you reach the summit for sunrise views and the panoramic landscape spread below. Head back to the hotel for breakfast and rest afterward. If interested, you can book a traditional Ayurvedic massage in the evening, or simply keep the rest of the day to yourself.
Day 5
Dambulla to Polonnaruwa
Day 5
Dambulla to Polonnaruwa
After breakfast, travel to Polonnaruwa, the former second capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through well-preserved ruins including the Quadrangle, Royal Palace, Audience Hall, and Gal Vihara with its four granite Buddha statues. By evening, take a peaceful walk around town and watch the sunset by the Mahaweli River, with optional traditional music or dance performances available.
Day 6
Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura to Dambulla
Day 6
Polonnaruwa to Anuradhapura to Dambulla
Following breakfast, head to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore impressive ruins and temples such as the Royal Palace Ruins, the massive Jetavanarama Stupa, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. Then continue to Mihintale, a pilgrimage site featuring ancient stupas, monastic ruins, and summit views. Return to your Dambulla hotel by evening for dinner.
Day 7
Dambulla to Kandy
Day 7
Dambulla to Kandy
After breakfast, travel to Kandy, the scenic hill capital. Your first stop is a guided visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most venerated sites. Take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake with its surrounding greenery. Drive up to the Kandy View Point for sweeping city views among misty hills. The evening includes a traditional cultural dance show displaying Sri Lanka's artistic traditions.
Day 8
Kandy
Day 8
Kandy
Following breakfast, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to watch orphaned and injured elephants being fed, cared for, and bathed in the river. Next, go to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, one of Asia's largest gardens with over 4,000 plant species. Stop at a Gem Museum to learn about Sri Lanka's gem mining heritage and see sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. Finish with shopping at local markets and handicraft stores in Kandy.
Day 9
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Day 9
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, journey to Nuwara Eliya, known as 'Little England' for its colonial architecture and cool climate. Visit a tea factory and plantation to learn how Sri Lanka's famous tea is produced and processed. Continue to Ramboda Waterfalls cascading 109 meters through misty highlands. By evening, unwind at Gregory Lake with a leisurely stroll or boat ride.
Day 10
Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Day 10
Nuwara Eliya to Ella
After breakfast, travel to the mountain village of Ella. You'll take one of the world's most scenic train rides from Nanu Oya to Ella, passing through misty mountains, tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls with great photo chances. Upon arrival, check in and spend the evening relaxing or walking around Ella's cozy cafes and handicraft shops. An optional Sri Lankan cooking class is available if interested.
Day 11
Ella
Day 11
Ella
Start with an optional early morning hike to Little Adam's Peak for a sunrise over the Ella valley and tea plantation views. For those wanting adventure, the Flying Ravana Zip Line offers an exciting ride over scenic highlands. Mid-morning, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a beautifully built colonial-era viaduct surrounded by dense greenery. Spend the rest of the day exploring Ella's scenic areas or just enjoying the peaceful atmosphere.
Day 12
Ella to Yala
Day 12
Ella to Yala
After breakfast, travel to Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destinations. Along the way, visit Ravana Falls cascading down a rocky cliff surrounded by lush greenery. If time allows, explore Ravana's Cave, the legendary location from the Ramayana epic with scenic valley views. Continue through the southern countryside with rural villages, forested hills, and changing landscapes. Check into your Yala hotel by evening to prepare for the wildlife adventure.
Day 13
Yala National Park Safari
Day 13
Yala National Park Safari
Start early for an exciting Yala National Park safari, Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve. You'll depart with a packed breakfast to catch early morning wildlife activity. A 4x4 jeep safari with an experienced tracker takes you through dry forests and freshwater lagoons. Choose a half-day or full-day option for more exploration. The park is known for high leopard density, plus elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and diverse bird species.
Day 14
Yala to Galle to Bentota
Day 14
Yala to Galle to Bentota
After breakfast, begin toward Galle with an optional photo stop at the stilt fishermen, an iconic sight on Sri Lanka's southern coast. Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site originally built by the Portuguese and fortified by the Dutch. Walk through historic lanes, cobbled streets, old churches, boutique shops, and cafes. Catch a sunset from the fort walls before continuing to Bentota for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 15
Bentota
Day 15
Bentota
After breakfast, set off for a Madu River Boat Safari through dense mangrove forest and small islands. You'll glide past lush mangroves and spot bird species, monitor lizards, and water monitors. The journey takes you through ancient Buddhist temples and cinnamon plantations on tiny river islands. A highlight is visiting a Turtle Hatchery where conservation efforts protect endangered sea turtles, with chances to see baby turtles.
Day 16
Bentota
Day 16
Bentota
Enjoy a full day at your own pace. Relax by the hotel pool, take a stroll along the golden beach, or simply unwind to the sound of waves. You can try optional water sports, book a spa treatment, or grab a beachfront lunch at a nearby cafe if you'd like.
Day 17
Bentota
Day 17
Bentota
Spend the day enjoying Bentota at your own pace. You can try thrilling water sports like swimming, snorkeling, jet-skiing, or windsurfing, or just unwind by the sea. For sightseeing, explore nearby attractions such as the Bentota River, Brief Garden, or a Turtle Hatchery focused on marine conservation.
Day 18
Bentota to Colombo
Day 18
Bentota to Colombo
After breakfast, travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital. Start with the historic Fort area known for colonial-era architecture and the vibrant Pettah Market filled with colorful stalls. Visit Gangaramaya Temple, which blends Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. Shop at Colombo's many malls and boutique stores featuring local handicrafts, batik, designer fashion, and souvenirs.
Day 19
Colombo
Day 19
Colombo
After breakfast, enjoy a relaxing day at your Colombo hotel. Rest and unwind while taking advantage of the hotel's amenities. In the evening, head out for a leisurely walk to see Colombo's charm and beauty, perhaps strolling along Galle Face Green or the lively city streets lit up at night.
Day 20
Departure from Colombo
Day 20
Departure from Colombo
After breakfast at your hotel, it's time to say goodbye to the island. Your journey through Sri Lanka has included ancient ruins, lush hills, wildlife in their natural habitats, and sun-kissed beaches. The experiences and memories from this trip will stay with you long after you leave.
Travel Styles
Cultural
Nature & Adventure
Marine
Independent
Activities
Festival & Events
Facilities
Wifi
FAQs
Meals?
19x Breakfast
19x Dinner
Included Activities?
Day 2: Mangrove ecosystem boat cruise near Negombo;
Day 3:
Dambulla Cave Temple exploration;
Authentic village experience with traditional activities;
Day 5:
Polonnaruwa ancient city exploration including Quadrangle, Royal Palace, Audience Hall;
Gal Vihara Buddha statues viewing;
Day 6:
Anuradhapura exploration including Royal Palace Ruins, Jetavanarama Stupa;
Sri Maha Bodhi Tree viewing;
Mihintale pilgrimage site visit with ancient stupas and monastic ruins;
Day 7:
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic guided tour;
Kandy Lake leisurely stroll;
Kandy View Point visit;
Traditional cultural dance show;
Day 8:
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage visit;
Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya exploration;
Gem Museum visit;
Day 9:
Tea factory and plantation visit;
Ramboda Waterfalls viewing;
Gregory Lake visit;
Day 10: Train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella;
Day 12: Ravana Falls viewing;
Day 13: Yala National Park 4x4 jeep safari with experienced tracker;
Day 14: Galle Fort exploration including historic lanes, churches, and ramparts;
Day 15:
Madu River Boat Safari through mangrove forest;
Turtle Hatchery visit;
Day 18:
Fort area historic exploration;
Pettah Market visit;
Gangaramaya Temple visit;
Optional Activities?
Day 4:
Early morning climb to Sigiriya Rock Fortress to witness sunrise;
Traditional Ayurvedic massage;
Day 5: Traditional music or dance performance;
Day 8: Shopping in Kandy local markets and handicraft stores;
Day 9: Tea tasting and purchase;
Day 10: Sri Lankan cooking class in Ella;
Day 11:
Early morning climb to Little Adam's Peak for sunrise;
Flying Ravana Zip Line ride;
Nine Arches Bridge visit by walk or tuk-tuk;
Day 12: Ravana's Cave exploration;
Day 13: Full-day safari extension (half-day safari is standard);
Day 14: Stilt fishermen photo stop;
Day 15:
Madu River Boat Safari through mangrove forest;
Turtle Hatchery visit;
Day 16:
Water sports activities;
Spa treatment;
Beachfront lunch at nearby café;
Day 17:
Swimming, snorkeling, jet-skiing, or windsurfing;
Bentota River visit;
Brief Garden visit;
Turtle Hatchery visit;
Day 18: Shopping at Colombo malls and boutique stores;
Day 19: Leisure walk around Colombo including Galle Face Green area
Landmarks?
Day 3: Dambulla Cave Temple;
Day 4: Sigiriya Rock Fortress;
Day 5:
Polonnaruwa;
Gal Vihara;
Mahaweli River;
Day 6:
Anuradhapura;
Sri Maha Bodhi Tree;
Jetavanarama Stupa;
Mihintale;
Day 7:
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic;
Kandy Lake;
Kandy View Point;
Day 8:
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage;
Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya;
Day 9:
Ramboda Waterfalls;
Gregory Lake;
Day 10: Ella;
Day 11:
Little Adam's Peak;
Nine Arches Bridge;
Day 12:
Ravana Falls;
Ravana's Cave;
Day 13: Yala National Park;
Day 14: Galle Fort;
Day 15: Madu River;
Day 17:
Bentota River;
Brief Garden;
Day 18:
Gangaramaya Temple;
Pettah Market;
Day 19: Galle Face Green;
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