Dream Holiday 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 NTD2031 |
From $890, Price varies by group size
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Places and Experiences
A Boat with a Yacht Sail at the Shores of Negombo
A Boat with a Yacht Sail at the Shores of Negombo
Enjoying the Hospitality of a Village House
A Sri Lankan Village House
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic
The Decorated Walls at the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy
Relaxing and Enjoying at Passikudah
The Charming Shores at Passikudah!
Nuwara Eliya
The Charming City of Nuwara Eliya
Galle
The Wonderful City of Galle
Enjoying a Fish Therapy
Enjoying a Fish Therapy
Enjoying a Boat Ride at Madu River
Enjoying a Boat Ride at Madu River
Colombo
The Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo
Climbing Sigiriya
The Stairway that Leads to Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Bentota
The Shores of Bentota
Enjoying a Cultural Dance Show
A Team of Cultural Dancers
Map
Highlights
Relaxing at Negombo
Visiting the Millenium Elephant Foundation
Climbing Sigiriya Fortress
Enjoying a Balloon Ride
Experiencing a Bullock Cart Ride
Enjoying a Canoeing Boat Ride
Taking a tuk-tuk Ride
Enjoying the Hospitality of a Village House
Hiking Pidurangala
Relaxing and Enjoying at Passikudah
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth Relic
Visiting the Royal Botanical Garden
Enjoying a Cultural Dance Show
Shopping at Kandy
Visiting a Tea Factory
Climbing Ella Rock
Visiting the Ravana Falls
Visiting Nine Arch Bridge
Exploring the City of Galle
Enjoying a Boat Ride at Madu River
Enjoying Sri Lankan Fish Therapy
Visiting a Turtle Hatchery
Enjoying Water Sports
Exploring the City of Colombo
Shopping at Colombo
Itinerary
When you arrive in Sri Lanka, you will be able to find one of our representatives from Next Travel Sri Lanka at the Arriving Lounge of the Colombo Airport paging your name. Once your identity is confirmed, you will be guided to your hotel at Negombo. This ride won’t take that much, as this coastal city is located a few miles away from the Colombo International Airport. Yet, we assure you of an interesting journey as you travel through the bustling city and the scenic surroundings. However, we have dedicated this day for you to relax at ease. Thus, the time you arrive in Sri Lanka won’t ever be an issue. The day would end with an evening walk along the seashore while enjoying the dazzling sunset and the wonderful atmosphere of the shoreline. Overnight stay would be at the hotel in Negombo.
On this day, following a delightful breakfast, you would be heading to the charming ancient city of Sri Lanka, which is none other than Dambulla. This trip would take 2 - 3 hours. Still, we can assure you of a wonderful ride, since there is a lot for you to experience as you travel from the coastal side to the Sri Lankan countryside. Also, you would be visiting the Millennium Elephant Foundation on the way to the Dambulla, and this visit is to offer you a unique experience as you observe a large number of elephants taken care of with much protection. Besides, you can even feed a few elephants and watch them bathe in herds in a nearby river as well. However, following this visit, you would continue your journey to Dambulla again, and upon arrival, you can check-in at the resort, and relax a bit. The evening of this day is dedicated to exploring the World Heritage Site of Sigiriya rock fortress, which stands with grandeur as the eighth wonder of the world. After climbing to the top of this rock, and observing its cultural treasures such as the mirror wall and the Sigiriya frescoes, you would head back to the resort, where you would be spending the night.
If you are a person who likes to challenge yourself by doing adventures, this is your day. After experiencing the diversity of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, it is necessary to sense the beautiful scenery around the rock. So, enjoy the delicious breakfast, collect the admission fee for the tour, and head on to the Sigiriya area to go on a pre-booked wonderful air-balloon tour to witness the magic of the countryside. Moreover, you will get the precious opportunity to experience the most ancient transportation system of Sri Lanka - ride in the Bullock Cart. It is a cart with two wheels, that has wooden seats along with a small roof, and a strong bull as your driver. Four people can ride in it at once. This bullock cart ride will take you to the village where you will receive the mesmerizing hospitality of the Sri Lankan villagers. In the middle of the ride, you will have a canoeing boat ride and a Tuk Tuk ride to the house of farmers. During the sunset, if you like you can go on an adventurous hike to Pidurangala and feel fresh inside the forest. There, you will witness the beauty of the sunset along with the glorified Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Overnight stay would be at Dambulla.
On the fourth and fifth days of this tour, you are going to explore the coastal beauty of Passikudah. Sunbathing and cocktails in hand are the best suits for these days. The white and sandy beaches with coconut trees would give a heaven-kind experience. The salty wind and the astonishing waves will heal your body for sure. Coastal sides are everyone’s favorite for vacations. So, if you are into ski-diving or surfing, Banana and Tube Boating, or fishing, you are always welcome. And also, you can relax your body with an ameliorate Ayurvedic herbal massage and enjoy the nights at a peaceful beach resort in Pasikuda.
With the refreshing beach stay, on the next day, you will be heading to the sacred city of Sri Lanka, Kandy. It is a city surrounded by a ring of mountains and is famous for its sacred Buddhist sites. On your way to Kandy, remember to visit the village of Sri Lankan aborigines where you can witness the uniqueness of Sri Lankan culture. Upon arrival, you can rest at your resort and visit the UNESCO world heritage site, and the significant religious and cultural attraction, the Temple of the Tooth Relic. However, this city exploration is to offer you amazing opportunities to feel the historic beauty of the ancient city with its dynamic historical monuments. So, you have ample time to take a walk around the astounding city and taste the mouth-watering Sri Lankan recipes as well. The day would end as you enjoy your stay at a resort with mist.
On the second day at Kandy, you would be visiting the most loved land of nature, the Royal Botanical Garden at Peradeniya. It’s a 146 hectares large, very beautiful garden with more than 4000 species of plants and flowers such as orchids, medicinal plants, spices, and dynamic trees. Also, it has very large grounds to go on a picnic. It is full of greenery and has a nice smell of flowers along with the birds singing. After a nicely spent day and having a lavish lunch and evening tea, you can visit the cultural art dance show to witness the traditional dancing performances for traditional dancers in Sri Lanka. This experience will enhance your awareness of the cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. After that, you can have a night walk in the city, around the Kandy river and you can shop in Kandy City Center with dynamic items according to your preference. Most importantly, you will receive the hospitality of the local people during your stay in Kandy. Overnight stay would be at Kandy.
After breakfast, your next destination will be the hill country of Nuwara Eliya which is also famous as “Little England” because of the British look of the buildings such as cottages, bungalows, the General’s House, the Grand Hotel, Hill Club, and The Post office, which are of course remains from the colonial era. However, on the way amidst the cold and misty mountains, you can have a sneak peek to taste the world’s best cup of tea - Ceylon Tea. Moreover, you can also stop at the tea factory to witness the creation of traditional fresh green tea. You would also get a chance to take a tour inside a tea factory and do not forget to taste the mouth-watering hot tea that refreshes you! You would be taking a short visit to the city and the market on the eve, and the overnight stay would be at a cozy bungalow at Nuwara Eliya.
The most astonishing destination in Sri Lanka is Ella. Thus, we would be heading to this mountain town on this day. To visit Ella, you can go by train from Nanu - Oya Station to Ella. Believe us! You will not ever regret it on the train journey as it is one of the world’s most scenic hill country journeys. Upon arrival, you will be refreshed with the soothing weather and the eco-friendly atmosphere the village poses. After lunch, you can visit places in Ella such as Nine Arch Bridge, Ravana Falls, and Ella Rock. As time permits, you can visit many other attractions too. However, on this day, you would get a chance to enjoy a jeep ride to the adventurous Udawalawe National Park to see the colorful species of plants and animals, especially monkeys, crocodiles, baby elephants in the mud playing with the water. You will witness the beauty of the wilderness in nature. Overnight stay would be at Safari Lodge in Udawalawe.
From the Hills, you will now be heading to the southern coast of Sri Lanka, where Galle is the capital. It is famous for its fort which is one of the world-famous heritage sites as well. However, the beauty of Galle comes along with the Dutch and British Architecture placed in the tropical environment. It adds a rich look to the visitors. To experience the match of British and South Asian architecture, you will get the chance of visiting the Galle Fort in the middle of the city. Secondly, you would go on a wonderful boat ride to the Madu river through red water trees. On the way, you can get the Sri Lankan Fish Therapy on foot when you stop at the Fish Farm. Moreover, you can witness and touch the baby turtles and adult turtles, if you visit the turtle hatcheries in Galle as well. After a tiring day, make your stay in a beach resort at Bentota and have a good rest near the beach or the pool with a mouth-watering seafood dinner.
It’s a day to enjoy the calm waves and feel the sandy beaches in the coastal part of Sri Lanka. You can freely enjoy the palm leaves, beach, and the ocean while having fresh juice near the beach. Bentota is one of the most soothing places to enjoy sunbathing and heal the body and soul of a person. Along with that, if you want you can do Jet-Ski, Surfing, Diving, and swimming in the deep sea, banana and tube boating, or fishing, since Bentota is the perfect choice for all these water sports. After enjoying the quality time with mouthwatering lunch and the evening snack, you will head back to the modern beach resort to spend the night.
After the island-wide tour, at last, you will be heading to Colombo which is the capital city of Sri Lanka. This city has a unique history and now it has become a modern city with graceful streets, unique buildings, and shopping malls with many tourist attractions. Upon arrival in Colombo, you will visit the most famous places in the city such as Gangaramaya Temple, Viharamahadevi Park, Independence Square, Red Mosque, Colombo National Museum, and Beira Lake. To add more memories to your journey, you can have a grand lunch at a luxurious, famous hotel in Colombo. After a memorable journey, we make sure to drop you at the airport to catch up on the flight to return happily to your country or drop you back at your hotel in Colombo or Negombo.
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 star-class hotels in Sri Lanka are ready to cater to you. And this tour includes accommodation in carefully selected well-reputed hotels helping you enjoy your stay in a way that suits your wishes. However, the following accommodation options are available for you to choose from.
Star class self-rated
DAY 1: NEGOMBO
Deluxe: Ruvisha Beach Hotel- 4* or similar
Superior: Amagi Aria Hotel-5* or similar
DAY 2-3: DAMBULLA
Deluxe: Tropical Life Resort- 4* or similar
Superior: Amaya Lake Boutique Resort-5* or similar
DAY 4-5: PASSIKUDAH
Deluxe: Amethyst Resort- 4* or similar
Superior: Amaya Passikudah Resort-5* or similar
DAY 6-7: KANDY
Deluxe: The Topaz Hotel- 4* or similar
Superior: Kandy Hills Boutique Villa-5* or similar
DAY 8: NUWARA ELIYA
Deluxe: Villa Tea Field- 4* or similar
Superior: Araliya Hills Hotel-5* or similar
DAY 9: UDAWALAWE
Deluxe: Centauria Wild Resort-4* or similar
Superior: The Grand Udawalawe Resort-5* or similar
DAY 10-11: BENTOTA
Deluxe: The Royal Palm Resort-4* or similar
Superior: Riff Hikkaduwa Resort- 5* or similar
Of course, there is so much on this island to explore, and getting around this country is not an issue at all! Throughout this tour, we would be offering you private transportation in a modern air-conditioned vehicle.
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, this package includes daily breakfast, nine dinners, and one lunch. Yet, you have nothing to worry about the rest of the meals because our representatives would help you arrange 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 professional tour leader who would ensure the smooth operations of the tour. He would assist you with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing his knowledge about the social and cultural splendor of Sri Lanka. Further, our customer support team will be there to provide 24/7 support during & after your trip, as well as help with all of your onward travel.
The following services are included in this tour package.
- Free airport pick-up and drop-off on the first and last day
- 1Lt Complimentary bottle of water per person each day
- Cultural village tour with authentic local lunch in a farmer’s house
- Catamaran boat ride in the lake to catch the amazing views of Sigiriya
- A spectacular train journey into the mountains
- A tour through Nuwara Eliya city & local markets
- Nine Arch Bridge/ Ravana Waterfall
- Colombo city and shopping tour
- Kandy city tour and viewpoint
- Turtle hatchery center
- Galle City and Fort tour
- A cultural dance show
- A visit to a tea factory
- Organic Spice Garden
- Government Tax / No hidden charges
- 24 hours emergency contact
This tour package includes a special COVID-19 insurance cover worth USD $ 50,000 per person is included (NOTE: this will be only applied for the travelers who are visiting Sri Lanka in 2021-2022). However, it is a must note that this package DOES NOT include general travel insurance.
You may need to pay an entrance fee to visit some of the attractions in Sri Lanka. However, it is a must note that this package does not include any entrance fee unless specified included.
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.
