Delightful Grand Tour in Sri Lanka (12 Days)
Book this Package now, just for FREE, and be pampered with the fascination of the island with Next Travel Sri Lanka. We assure you of the perfect exploration, with the comforts you desire. Need more additions? Yes, you can even plan your holiday to suit your true favours with our Tailor-Made Tour Packages! We are always here to assist you in planning the best holiday. Simply contact us, if you have any doubts about this package, tailor-made tour packages, or the bookings.
Book With Flexibility Number of Days: 12
From Colombo to Colombo
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Max Group Size 20 |
Private Tour Available |
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Physical Rating Active |
Age Range 18 to 65 |
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Operated In English |
Tour ID NTD2037 |
From $890, Price varies by group size
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Places and Experiences
The Building Palace of the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Building Palace of the Temple of the Tooth Relic
Relaxing at the top of Little Adam’s Peak
Relaxing at the top of Little Adam’s Peak
Observing the Surroundings while at Little Adam’s Peak
Observing the Surroundings while at Little Adam’s Peak
A Beautiful Capture from the Ella Rock, Sri Lanka
A Beautiful Capture from the Ella Rock, Sri Lanka
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Temple of the Tooth Relic
Visiting Galle Fort
The Ancient Clock Tower at Galle Fort
Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple
An Ancient Building at the Dambulla Cave Temple
Visiting a Spice Garden
Fresh Spices from Sri Lanka
Trekking Ella Rock
The Ella Rock with its Verdant Surroundings
Trekking Horton Plains
A Sambar Deer at the Horton Plains
Relaxing at Negombo
The Charming Shores of Negombo
Relaxing at Hikkaduwa
The Beautiful Shores at Hikkaduwa
Participating in a Cooking Class
Preparing a Traditional Sri Lankan Curry
Hiking Sigiriya
Water Park at Sigiriya
Exploring the Waterfalls
A Waterfall in Nuwara Eliya
Going on a Village Walk
Sri Lankan Life!
Map
Highlights
Relaxing at Negombo
Visiting Dambulla Cave Temple
Hiking Sigiriya
Exploring the Ancient Cities of Polonnaruwa / Anuradhapura
Visiting a Spice Garden
Going on a Village Walk
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic
Visiting a tea plantation/tea factory
Trekking Horton Plains
Hiking Little Adam’s Peak
Trekking Ella Rock
Visiting Nine Arches Bridge
Exploring the Waterfalls
Participating in a Cooking Class
Visiting Galle Fort
Relaxing at Hikkaduwa
Enjoying Water Sports at Hikkaduwa
Itinerary
The time you arrive in Sri Lanka on the first day of your tour is not an issue, since we have selected Negombo, the coastal city, which is just a few miles away from the Colombo International Airport as our destination for the day. However, this is simply one of the bustling fishing villages and one of the most alluring shores on this magical island. Thus, Negombo is to offer you wonderful opportunities to indulge yourself in kayaking, as well as in many other water sports. Thus, the time you spend in this scenic town will surely delight you. However, towards the end of the day, you will get a chance to get to know the rest of your travel mates, as we have scheduled a dinner-out at a local hotel in this beautiful coastal town. And yes, the day would end in a splendid atmosphere, while tasting the mouth-watering flavors of Sri Lankan food.
On the second day of the tour, we would be heading to Central Sri Lanka. Accordingly, our plan is to hike the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which is also known as the world’s eighth wonder. Hiking to the top of this rock, and exploring this cultural treasure trove would certainly take a few hours since this fortress houses several attractions such as the ruins, mirror wall, and frescoes. However, following this exploration, you can choose to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is located in the scenic town of Dambulla, a few miles away from the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. It is also a must-visit in this area since it is believed to be the best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. Overnight stay would be at Dambulla.
This day is dedicated to exploring the rich heritage of Sri Lanka history, by visiting an ancient city in the country. To be specific, you have two choices for the day. You can either head to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, or else, you can head to the ancient city of Anuradhapura. Both of these cities are kingdoms of ancient Sri Lanka. Besides, both of them are UNESCO World Heritage Sites that house a wide variety of ruins and cultural attractions. Hence, the choice you make won’t ever impact the experience of exploring the grandeur of this island nation. Overnight stay would be at Dambulla.
On the fourth day, you would be heading to one of the most beautiful, yet hidden villages on the island of Sri Lanka. This area is called ‘Digana’, and exploring this village is sure to offer you a wonderful experience. This village walk will certainly create opportunities to get to know the country’s village life and witness the charm of a rural village. Further, you would be visiting a spice garden, with a wide array of plantations, and visit the Tamarind garden farm as well. Overnight stay would be at Dambulla.
The fifth day of this tour is dedicated to exploring one of the most sacred, and the most beautiful cities of Sri Lanka. Yes, it is none other than the capital of Central Sri Lanka, Kandy! However, if you are an early bird, you would get a chance to start the day with a visit to the farm which is located on the premise you accommodate itself. Afterward, the afternoon is dedicated to exploring this ancient city, the last capital kingdom of ancient Sri Lanka, which houses several cultural and religious attractions, and historical monuments. So, during this city tour, you can also choose to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the most important religious attraction of Buddhists as well. And if you wish to, you can even enjoy a Kandyan Cultural show, or team up with your teammates and play a cricket match. However, there is one thing that we can surely assure you! The relaxing climate, and the beauty of the city, will certainly enhance the delight of this day. Overnight stay would be at a hotel in Kandy.
On this day, you would get more opportunities to explore the charm of the central highlands of Sri Lanka. In fact, you will be heading to the wonderful hill country of Nuwara Eliya, on this day. However, the day would begin with a traditional breakfast prepared by women and youth living with disabilities at G Adventures-supported Sthree Craft Shop and Café. Then, you would begin the journey to the charming hilltown of Sri Lanka, through the luscious forests and the splendid surroundings. Besides, Nuwara Eliya is home to the largest tea plantations and tea factories! Yes, you guessed it right. You would be visiting one of these scenic tea plantations and if you like, you can even walk on foot to witness the true beauty out there.
Excited to experience the morning mist flowing through the valley? If so, an early morning trek to the Horton Plains would surely be the best choice for you! And then following this wonderful experience, you would get a chance to cruise to the laid-back village of Ella. Afterward, the evening is left for you to explore or relax in this beautiful mountain town. And something interesting! If you are a food lover, you can even choose to take part in a cooking class and learn to prepare some delicious Sri Lankan food dishes as well.
This whole day is dedicated to exploring the charming city of Ella. You would start the day with an amazing hike to Little Adam’s Peak, where you would get a chance to observe the wonderful 360 views of its attractive surroundings. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. However, this charming city offers you several attractions, and you would surely struggle a lot to choose what to visit. Thus, we would suggest you hike the Ella Rock, which rests in splendid verdant surroundings or visit the Nine Arches Bridge, to capture some amazing sceneries, and to delight your eyes. If not, you can even choose to visit some of the amazing waterfalls that cascade over the rocky terrains of this beautiful town. Wherever you go, the relaxing climate and the breathtaking views of Ella are sure to offer you a wonderful experience.
The ninth day of this tour is ready to offer you a completely different experience, as you would be heading to the down south of Sri Lanka on this day. On the way, you would be stopping at Galle, the iconic coastal town of Southern Sri Lanka to visit the Galle Fort, and to explore the grandeur and the beauty of its surrounding. Following this exploration, you would be heading to the scenic coastal town of Hikkaduwa. So, this day would end at a fantastic golden shore in this marvelous town.
As we believe, a break after days of traveling would further enhance the delight of your trip. Hence, we have dedicated this day for you to relax as your heart desires. However, this wonderful coastal town of Hikkaduwa, well known as Hikka is simply the land of joys. Thus, you can either choose to indulge yourself in water sports amidst the mighty waves at Hikka or go on a dolphin/whale watching tour. If not, you can even sip a fresh juice and sunbathe on the shores, while soothing your body and soul. However, don’t forget that a big night out awaits you on this day! You can head to the best beach bar in this town, to enjoy a drink, and to tap your feet to the beats of music, under the stars. And why not? A night swim would offer you the perfect ending for the day!
You might surely need some time to recover from the fun and excitement of the previous night. Thus, we have planned to spend the eleventh day of this tour at Hikka itself. So, you can enjoy this day as you wish. However, you have plenty of options! You can go for a swim, you can surf, or else, you can enjoy snorkeling! Going beyond, you can even explore this bustling beach town, and enjoy a flavourful farewell dinner from a local restaurant, while reminiscing the bunch of wonderful memories that you collected so far, in this journey!
This wonderful tour of fun and excitement would end as we drop you back at the Colombo International Airport. However, if you are planning to spend a few more days in Sri Lanka, our representatives would help you arrange the transfer as well.
After all, we believe that this tour package features the best of the island, satisfying the true favors. Besides, if you prefer to make your dream trip in Sri Lanka a reality, in exactly the way your heart desires, we are here to offer you tailor-made tour packages as well. Contact us for more information.
Happy and Safe Travelling!
What is included
Let it be a stay by the golden stretches, a chill amidst the cool breeze, or a holiday surrounded by the lush greenery! Whatever your heart desires, the wide array of hotels in Sri Lanka are ready to cater to you. And this tour includes accommodation at Hotels/Guesthouses for 10 nights and a homestay for 1 night, helping you enjoy your stay in a way that suits your wishes!
Of course, there is so much on this island to explore, and getting around this country is not an issue at all! So apart from the walks in this tour, you would be provided with a private vehicle for transportation. Also, we guarantee you that the vehicles we offer are in perfect condition, and thus, a hassle-free ride is ensured for you.
Dishes in Sri Lanka are a true delight! Hence, you should never miss a chance to experience the authenticity and the exclusivity of the mouth-watering Sri Lankan tastes. However, as mentioned, this package includes 2 breakfasts, 1 lunch, and 1 dinner. Yet, you have nothing to worry about because our representatives would help you arrange the rest of the meals upon request. Further, any of the Sri Lankan hotels/restaurants would allow you to choose among the below selections, for each of your main meals.
Also, please note that these are the general food items that any of the hotels would offer you, and there may be a wide variety of additional dishes depending on the hotel you dine at. Further, this tour offers Vegetarian, Vegan, and Halal food options on request.
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It is true that one can visit the attractions on this island on their own. Still, let us assure you that having a travel guide makes your journey more wonderful, and stress-free. In fact, they know about this island like the back of their hands. They are capable of enlightening you about each and every place you visit. Going beyond, they would turn out to be a companion of yours, inspired with a passion to fulfill your expectations on this beautiful island. Hence, we make sure to provide you with the service of a Chief Experience Officer throughout the journey. And yes, he will surely become a reason for you to make this Sri Lankan trip more amusing than ever!
The following activity costs are not included in the package.
- Sigiriya
- Dambulla Cave Temple Visit (12USD per person)
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress Visit (30USD per person)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient Capital Visit (25USD per person)
- Kandy
- Temple of the Sacred Tooth Tour (10USD per person)
- Kandyan Cultural Dance (3-5USD per person)
- Royal Botanical Gardens Visit (10USD per person)
- Digana
- Tamarind Farm Duties
- Horton Plains Nature Reserve
- Horton Plains Trek (25USD per person, 35USD per group)
- Ella
- Spice Garden Cooking Class (2500LKR per person)
- Trek to Ella Rock
- Hikkaduwa
- Dolphin Watching Tour
We recommend you have travel insurance to enjoy yourself more and travel stress-free on this paradise island of Sri Lanka. Yet, insurance is NOT INCLUDED in our tour packages. Tourists are responsible for choosing the insurance packages that suit them the most and getting themselves insured.
International Flights are NOT INCLUDED in our packages. It is up to the visitors to take care of their flight bookings and our tour packages, and additional services begin only once they arrive in Sri Lanka.
Of course, you will be provided with accommodation. Still, it is up to the travelers to bear personal expenses for pre and post-tour accommodation. Further, the travelers should bear their cost for anything that is not mentioned in the Itinerary, such as the rest of the meals, alcoholic/non-alcoholic drinks, snacks, visa fees, tips, and portage, etc.
Frequently Asked Questions
Grabbing out the best essence out of a wonderful holiday destination indeed requires a good plan. Yet, proper planning surely requires a good knowledge about the destination as well. In that case, you will certainly need a helping hand to know more about what to expect, how to get ready, and mostly, to clear out your doubts. However, as an experienced team working close to the hearts of our travellers, we clearly understand what troubles your mind, and your desire to travel with peace of mind. Thus, we have answered the most frequently asked questions, so that you can easily clear out your doubts just in a second. So, why not? Have a look at the below section, and we are sure that we have answered your question!
Abiding by the new normal, Sri Lanka is now open for tourists after the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, quarantine measures are different for the vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists.
Completing two weeks upon receiving the recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccinations will make you begin travelling on the island sooner. Apart from that, Sri Lanka requires no mandatory vaccinations before arrival.
The natural marvels of the island nation Sri Lanka, which includes the golden shores, charming cascades, scenic landscapes, and diverse wildlife are indeed capable of attracting any tourist. Besides, its rich cultural heritage, delightful festivals, pleasant climate, exclusive cuisines, and extensive range of facilities for affordable prices, simply make tourists go to Sri Lanka, at any time of the year.
Tourists are only permitted to get to Sri Lanka, by air.
Yes, of course! If you are arriving in Sri Lanka for a holiday, for medical treatments, or to take part in an event, you will require a Tourist Visa.
Any foreigner who plans to arrive in Sri Lanka should obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) through http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. The website also contains a full guide on obtaining the ETA, along with the payment details.
The Visa is valid for 30 days.
Yes, you can. Still, you have to apply for a visa extension, before your current visa expires. All you have to do is collect the visa extension form from the Head Office of the Department of Immigration and Emigration (You can also download the form from here), and submit the duly filled application, along with the following.
- Return Air Ticket
- Details of the place of accommodation
- The application along with a photograph of the applicant
It is always better to have your National Identity Card, and Passport with you when travelling around the island.
In brief, Sri Lanka is a year-round destination. Thus, it always has something to do and somewhere to visit on this island. Still, it is always better to choose a time where the monsoon rains do not impact the area you plan to visit in Sri Lanka. This complete overview of the weather and climate of Sri Lanka, and the official website of the Department of Meteorology, Sri Lanka will help you with regard.
You can either use public transportation which includes the bus and train services. If not, you can even hire a taxi, a tuk-tuk, or hire a vehicle to drive yourself.
Sri Lanka Rupees (SLR) is the currency used in Sri Lanka.
Not really! If you are using public transportation, enjoying meals from budget restaurants, and taking accommodation at budget hotels, you can experience the holiday at your heart’s core, at a low budget. Thus, the cost depends upon your choices. Still, a holiday in Sri Lanka is simply cheaper than many other tourist destinations across the world.
The best is to wear comfortable materials, preferable cotton, linen, or rayon since Sri Lanka is warm most of the time. Besides, if you are visiting a religious place, the best is to wear something light colour that covers from your shoulders to your knees, to blend with the culture there. Besides, having a shawl will help you to cover yourself in instances where your attire is inappropriate to visit such a place.
As long as you are travelling in a populated area it is safe to travel alone in Sri Lanka. Still, if you are a female travelling alone, the best is to wear an attire that covers your body, and also, wearing a fake wedding ring, acting familiar, etc. will help you avoid unnecessary hassles. However, the best is to avoid night rides, and use google location if you are travelling alone!
Most can! Still, some locals would only be familiar with Sinhala and Tamil languages. However, hand signals will help you in instances as such.
- Simply, cultural and religious values run through the veins of Sri Lankans. So, never disrespect any religion. Avoid posing with funny actions at religious sites. Besides, dresses or tattoos with religious slogans or images might pave the way for unnecessary disturbances.
- Avoid public nudity and kissing.
- Never take photographs without permission.
Good to Know
The delight of a Sri Lankan holiday needs no further exaggerations. Its natural splendours, pleasant weather and climate, welcoming smiles of Sri Lankans, and every other bit of this wonderful paradise are surely going to enchant anyone who visits it. Still, in order to witness the true delight of this wonderful destination, knowing a few more things would certainly benefit you. Keep calm, and have a look below. They will help you make the most out of your time on this splendid island nation!
Electricity is not an issue in the present, especially around tourist hotspots. It is true that some extremely rural areas still lack this facility. Still, we can assure you that those areas are out of the tourist zones.
However, Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage and 50 Hz. Hence, be mindful of bringing compatible devices or voltage converters. Besides, it is always better to have with you a power bank, rechargeable lamp, etc. because emergency power cuts could occur once in a while.
As you might already know, Sri Lankan Rupees is the currency used in Sri Lanka. The best would be to bring USDs with you and then to exchange them for the local currency once you arrive. Doing so will offer you opportunities to get better exchange rates as well. Besides, Mastercards and Visa Cards are widely accepted, while American Express Cards are also often accepted. Still, it is always better to have cash in hand, since most of the local boutiques around tourist attractions do not have the facilities to accept credit cards.
Also, ATMs are available islandwide. Still, not all of them accept international cards. The daily transaction limit usually ranges between SLR 100,000 to SLR 200,000 and a transaction fee is imposed upon every transaction. Moreover, banks are open on weekdays from 9 AM to 3 PM and closed on weekends. Still, some main cities have a few banks that are open 24/7, or either till night hours.
Of course, telecommunication facilities are available almost island-wide, except for the extremely rural areas. If you are planning to stay connected during your trip to Sri Lanka, the best would be to buy a local sim since the mobile service providers here offer perfect tourist plans that would simply save you money. Also, buying a sim in Sri Lanka is not that hard. You can buy one easily from the airport premises, or the outlets islandwide.
As you already know, Sri Lanka holds accommodation facilities that cover an extensive range. Starting with the Home Stays, Guest Houses, Bungalows, to Medium-Scale Hotels, and Super-Luxury Hotels, this paradise island has it all. Of course, the price might vary upon your selections and the facilities they offer. Still, accommodation facilities are indeed cheaper in Sri Lanka, when compared with tourist destinations worldwide.
However, some of the Home-stays, Guesthouses, and Bungalows might not have AC and hot water facilities. Hence, if you are concerned with regard, it is always better to ask about these little things before placing your bookings. Besides, finding accommodation during the off-season might not be that hard. Still, it is always best to hunt for accommodation a few days earlier, just to travel with pace in mind.
Discovering the unique flavours of Sri Lankan Food, seafood, and cultural dishes would simply be a delightful experience that you can ever imagine! Let it be the luxurious hotels that offer you both local and international cuisine, and the small boutiques or the street stalls that amaze you with their mouth-watering tastes, all of them are impressive beyond words. However, local dishes might be a bit spicy. Thus, it is always better to inform the cook earlier, if you prefer less spicy food. Besides, the cost of food in Sri Lanka highly varies depending on the place you choose to dine, and the dishes you select.
Photography and videography are not forbidden in Sri Lanka. Still, make sure you request permission, especially if you are capturing locals, their boutiques, or their houses. Besides, never turn your back to religious statues, or pose with them with funny poses, since Sri Lanka is a country backed with strong cultural values. Also, whenever you visit a religious or a cultural attraction, or a museum, make sure to check for notices. Photography and videography are strictly prohibited in certain places, and using the flasher is strictly prohibited in some sites with historical paintings, and murals. Going beyond, photography and videography in some places require prior permission or payments. Hence, making memories is always fine, yet, it is always better to be mindful of the restrictions. And yes, your travel guide will simply help you with these concerns!
As you might already know, Sri Lanka is a country with a rich cultural heritage. Thus, we encourage you to follow the below ethics when visiting religious places in Sri Lanka.
- Most religious places encourage visitors to wear a light colour attire that covers their body, shoulder to knees. Thus, if you are visiting a religious place, make sure that you do not wear shorts, crop tops, skinnies, etc. Also, having a shawl with you will help you cover your body at such times, in order to blend with the culture there.
- Visitors enter the religious place barefoot and caps, hats, scarfs, etc. are removed before entering the site.
- The tranquillity of the religious places in Sri Lanka is simply impressive. Hence, make sure you mind your behaviour.
Indeed, safety is first! So, it is always better to keep an eye on animals, especially on the stray dogs on the roads. Be mindful when feeding them, or touching them. And by chance, if a stray dog or any other animal bit you, make sure you arrive at the nearest government hospital, and they will make sure to treat you accordingly.
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