North to Central Tour in Sri Lanka (11 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: 11
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 NTD2020 |
From $890, Price varies by group size
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Places and Experiences
The Beauty of Nilaveli Beach and its Surroundings at Trincomalee
The Beauty of Nilaveli Beach and its Surroundings at Trincomalee
Negombo Beach
The Calm and Quite Negombo Shores
Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu Temple
Nallur Kandaswamy Hindu Temple
Jaffna Clock Tower
Jaffna Clock Tower
Jaffna Library
Jaffna Library
Fort Frederick
Walls of Fort Frederick
Ella
The Scenic Surroundings of Ella
Dambulla Golden Temple
Dambulla Golden Temple
colombo
The Bustling City of Colombo
Anuradhapura
The Ancient Ruins of Anuradhapura
Nuwara Eliya
The Nuwara Eliya Post Office
Pidurangala Rock Top
Pidurangala Rock Top
Map
Highlights
Relaxing on the Shores of Negombo
Exploring the Ancient City of Anuradhapura
Visiting the Jaffna library
Visiting Jaffna Fort
Visiting the Nallur Hindu Kovil
Visiting Old Buildings and Ruins
Visiting the Jaffna Fish Market
Exploring the City of Trincomalee
Visiting Fort Fedrick
Snorkeling at Pigeon Island
Whale Watching at Trincomalee
Visiting the Dambulla Cave Temple
Climbing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Hiking Pidurangala
Exploring the Charm of Nuwara Eliya
Visiting a Tea Factory
Experiencing a Train Ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Sightseeing at Ella
City Tour in 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 would be guided to a wonderful hotel settled amidst the charming surroundings of Negombo. The time you arrive at the island won’t be an issue, since there are no special plans for the day. However, the sea breeze and the dazzling sunsets in this coastal town are sure to surprise you. Besides, if you arrive early on the day, you can choose either to rest at the hotel or to sightsee around Negombo. Overnight stay will be at a beachside hotel
The journey of this tour officially starts on the second day, as you reach one of the most ancient cities of the country, which is none other than Anuradhapura. As you might already know, this ancient city holds historical significance being an important kingdom in the past. Hence, the exposure to the island will start with undeniable historical details lying within the ruins and sculptures of Anuradhapura. Lives of the kings, the establishment of the kingdoms, vintage architectural systems, the lifestyle of the ancestors with the present status of the city will be focused throughout this city ride. Besides, you have the evening hours to relax and get ready for the next day. Overnight stay would be at a hotel in Anuradhapura.
Following a flavourful breakfast at the hotel in Anuradhapura, you will be traveling towards the Northern part of the island. The city that we would be visiting is Jaffna, which is the main city of the Northern province of the country. As you might already know, it is a city that holds significant importance for the Hindu culture. Most of the monuments are associated with their culture and tradition. Along with that, the city is popular for some noteworthy landmarks as well. When you reach there you can stop by Jaffna library, Jaffna fort, Nallur Hindu Kovil, old buildings and ruins, and Jaffna fish market. If the day remains, you can also have an evening walk on Jaffna beach. All these places will tell you something about the history, the diversity, and the prosperity of the island in an indirect way. Overnight stay would be at a hotel in Jaffna
The fourth day is to explore the Eastern coast of Sri Lanka. You will have breakfast quite earlier in the morning and leave Jaffna heading towards Trincomalee to spend the day. The attractiveness of its beach and the coastline became the reason for the attraction back then and it remains the same still. Once again this visit will give you exposure to the Hindu culture while encouraging you to have a walk around to explore the unique scenic beauty of the surrounding area. After reaching the hotel you can relax a bit, and chill out around Nilaveli beach, which is a known ideal place for a quiet evening. Besides, the city tour will also provide you with some amazing exposures to the diversity and times of colonization of the island with the ruins and the structure of the city. Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Trincomalee.
After some valuable sightseeing and a worthy exposure to Sri Lankan history, this day calls for some wildlife experience. So, following a delicious breakfast, you will visit Fort Fedrick where you witness the flocks of country deers rumbling around the place. The other half of the day is for a visit to Pigeon Island. To reach the destination you have to have a boat ride. Snorkeling at Pigeon would further magnify the delight of this tour if you are especially interested in water sports. Further, if you are visiting there between March and August, do not forget to include whale watching on your list, since this is one of the few places on the island to have that experience. After two enthusiastic days at Trincomalee, you will have the last night at the hotel bearing new hopes for the next day
As the tour continues, you will be moving more into the country to explore the unusual beauty of this island. The first stop for the day would be at Dambulla to visit the Golden temple. It is a place with historical significance where you can witness carvings, wall paintings, and statues. Then, you would be heading to the village of Sigiriya. Yes, you guessed it right! This is the area where the Sigiriya rock fortress, which is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located. Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Sigiriya.
The seventh day of this tour starts with climbing up to the Sigiriya rock fortress to witness all the beauty and significance of the place. The other half of the day is dedicated to hiking to the picturesque Pidurangala rock which stands behind the Sigiriya rock. The entrance of Sigiriya gives the best and easiest path to Pidurangala. Further, it will only take 45 minutes to reach Pidurangala at that point. However, if you are weary you can either have a tuk-tuk ride to the bottom of Pidurangala rock. The journey up to Pidurangala is not an easy walk, with the footwork through narrow footpaths amidst the forest areas. Still, it is worth a try, since you can witness some aspects of wildlife and biodiversity via this journey. Besides, the summit view will give you some fresh experience with Sigiriya lying in front. In fact, it is one of the well-known places for photography in Sri Lanka!
Experiencing the charm of the coasts and the grandeur of the historical heritage, you will be moving to central Sri Lanka, to witness the beauty of the hill country. In fact, the visit this day will take you out of the typical Sri Lankan environment, culture, and atmosphere with the surrounding of this spectacular mountain town, Nuwara Eliya. This is the city where you can find the coolest atmosphere in the country. So, following a small rest amidst the relaxing climate, you can have a walk around the bordering tea plantations in the area in the evening time. And during these visits, never forget to taste varieties of freshly brewed cups of tea as well! At the end of a day amidst comfortable coldness and smooth wind, you can stay overnight at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya
The day starts with a delicious breakfast at Nuwara Eliya and then you will be reaching Nuwara Eliya railway station. Yes, you are to experience one of the most wonderful experiences on the island, the train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. Of course, it is one of the most beautiful train rides in Asia. The journey lays amidst the huge tree platoons, green-filled hills, abandoned bridges, cascading waterfalls, and widely spread tea plantations. Hence, the journey is worth having if you are visiting this tiny island. This journey will last for 3-5 hours, still, the memories that it offers you will last forever in your minds for sure. However, after reaching Ella, one of the enchanting mountain towns in Sri Lanka, you can walk around and sightsee in the evening time. Overnight stay will be at a hotel in Ella town
As you reach the end of this wonderful tour, you will head back to Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka on this day. The day calls for a city walk around this bustling, yet vibrant city. Discovering the places around, visiting the beach, walking through the malls, doing some souvenir shopping, watching the sunset will be included in your walk. After having fun-filled, mesmerizing 10 days on this tiny island rich with beauty and dozens of sites to visit, you can finally collect all those memories and lock them up in your memory since you are leaving the country the next day. Overnight stay would be at a hotel in Colombo
As the tour ends, our representative will drop you at the Colombo International Airport for your departure flight on this day. After all, we believe that this tour package features the best of the island, satisfying the true flavors. 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. This tour includes accommodation in 3 Star or above Hotels on a Bed and Breakfast basis
Of course, there is so much on this island to explore, and getting around this country is not an issue at all! During this tour, we would be offering you transportation in an Air-condition Vehicle - CAR, VAN, or BUS. And yes, the tour includes a train ride as well!
Dishes in Sri Lanka are a true delight! Yet, this package does not include meals. It is up to the travelers to take care of their meals, at their own expense
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, this tour package offers you the service of a Chauffeur Guide (English) to help make your journey hassle-free
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
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 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 travelers, 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 section below, and we are sure that we have answered your question!
Abided by the new normal, Sri Lanka is now open for tourists after the COVID-19 pandemic. Yet, quarantine measures are different for vaccinated and unvaccinated tourists
Completing two weeks upon receiving the recommended doses of COVID-19 vaccinations will make you begin traveling 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 splendors, 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.
