Compare Simply Sri Lanka by Intrepid Travel vs Highlights of Sri Lanka by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 8 days | 8 days |
| Price From | $ 652 | $ 3,129 |
| Price Per Day | $ 82 | $ 391 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Self-guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Basic | Standard |
| Physical Level |
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| Travel Themes |
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N/A |
| Countries Visited | ||
| Cities and Attractions |
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N/A |
| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
| Activities | N/A | N/A |
| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating cultures, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches and this eight-day experience will introduce you to the most memorable. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, climb Lion Rock at Sigiriya, and explore the monkey-filled mangrove forests of Unawatuna. We’ve sorted the nitty gritty so you can focus on soaking up Sri Lanka at your own pace, with plenty of optional activities and the guidance of your local leader to help you out when you’re not sure where to start. Are you an independent traveller who wants to explore Sri Lanka with like-minded people and a local? This is your trip. |
Ready, set, adventure! Grab your camera, pack a bag, and embark on this 7-night guided journey through Sri Lanka. Kick off in Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital city. With a long history in ancient east-west trade, this port city boasts a unique blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. Today, the restaurant and shop-filled area is a commercial hub! After a night in the city, you'll switch gears and soak up some village vibes. On your way to the ancient stone city of Sigiriya, enjoy a visit to an elephant orphanage! Interact with Sri Lanka's cutest (and biggest) residents as they eat and bathe in the river. Upon arrival in Sigiriya, you'll explore the UNESCO Lions Rock of Sigiriya and the Cave Temple of Dambulla. As you journey from Sigiriya to the picturesque town of Kandy, you'll stop at a local spice and herb garden. Breathe in aromatic scents and consider snagging some flavorful souvenirs! Surrounded by mountains, rainforests, and tea plantations, the city of Kandy is nestled on the scenic Bogambara Lake. During your stay, you'll visit sacred Buddhist sites such as the Temple of Tooth and you'll feast your eyes on cultural spectacles such as a dance and drum show! After that, venture to Peradeniya, where you'll explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, filled with a vibrant mix of native, tropical, and exotic plants. Then, move on to Ramboda Falls, where you'll visit a local tea factory, and of course, sip a cup yourself! From there, enjoy stays in Nuwara Eliya and the beach paradise of Beruwala. On this incredible vacation, you'll visit tons of UNESCO World Heritage sites, take guided sightseeing tours, and relax on scenic drives. Helpful links for travel to Sri Lanka: |
Day 1 Negombo
Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, located close to the international airport. You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. Those arriving early can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and perhaps feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.
Day 2 Dambulla
After breakfast, leave Negombo and drive approximately 4.5 hours to Dambulla, arriving just after midday. In the afternoon you may like to relax at the hotel after check-in, or take an optional visit to a nearby wildlife reserve – a jeep safari excursion that takes you into elephant country. Which park is available to visit depends on the season, but both Minneriya and Kaudulla are within easy reach of Dambulla. Another option is the nearby Dambulla Caves with their magnificently decorated interiors.
Day 3 Sigiriya - Kandy
Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes). This ruined fortress is one of Sri Lanka's premier sights. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with astounding views. Make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear, as this is a very steep climb with some uneven slopes. Those unable to climb to the top can explore the gardens at the base of the rock and still get some fantastic shots of the fortress from below. Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Kandy (approximately 3 hours). On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch. In beautifully located Kandy, visit the Dalada Maligawa (aka Temple of the Tooth), Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist site, and mingle with the white-clad pilgrims who come here to worship.
Day 4 Kandy
The morning is yours to explore Kandy, a pleasant city surrounded by lush countryside. It’s home to a picturesque lake, old shops, a bustling market and some great restaurants. It was once the capital under the last Sri Lankan king, and the area managed to resist European control for hundreds of years, long after the coastal areas surrendered. Perhaps walk through the town to take in the sights of Kandy – explore the citadel, or take a nature walk at Udawattakele Sanctuary, close to Kandy, which offers the chance to see flowers, birds and monkeys in 160 acres of tropical rainforest. Regroup for today’s lunch, which is sure to be one to remember! Visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant, a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment to women from local communities while training and empowering them. Here you’ll enjoy some truly delicious Sri Lankan dishes while learning about the important work they do. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries.
Day 5 Unawatuna
Journey south in a private vehicle to Unawatuna (approximately 6 hours). This fantastic stretch of beach has plenty of local restaurants and bars to relax in. There are no included activities today, so you'll have free time to explore Unawatuna and its surrounds. Perhaps take a walk through the monkey-filled mangrove forest off Galle–Matara road or unwind with an indulgent massage.
Day 6 Unawatuna
Sleep in, relax on the beach, work on your tan or grab a cocktail under the shade of a beachside restaurant. Feel like something a bit more active? Today is a good opportunity to pop into nearby Galle for some sightseeing. The city is a memorable collection of Dutch-colonial buildings with boutique shops and cafes to visit. Walk around the perimeter of the Galle fort and cool off with an icy ginger drink in a cafe, then mosey on back to the beach for some more chillaxing.
Day 7 Colombo
Leave Unawatuna behind and make the journey to Galle, where you'll jump on a train to Colombo (approximately 4 hours). On arrival in Sri Lanka's capital, head out on a city walk with your leader. On your way, visit local shops and do some sightseeing. If you're lucky enough to be in Colombo on a Saturday, visit Good Market, a local market full of stalls showcasing social enterprises and responsible businesses. Tonight is free, but your leader will suggest an optional group dinner for your final night together.
Day 8 Colombo
Have string hoppers and a super-black coffee for breakfast, then pull your saddest face as our trip comes to an end.
Day 1 Welcome to Colombo!
Touch down in Sri Lanka's largest city, Colombo! This fascinating commercial hub draws together culture, religion, and cuisine. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to your first hotel and settle in. Spend your first night relaxing or exploring on your own! Why not treat yourself to a delicious first-night meal?
Day 2 Colombo - Pinnawala - Sigiriya
Recharge with a delicious breakfast, then grab your camera and take a scenic drive through the lush green countryside to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage! Along the way, you'll spot coconut palms, paddy fields, and banana plantations! Enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience, as you feed and accompany elephants to nearby rivers for baths. Later in the day, you'll venture to Sigiriya and check into your next accommodation.
Day 3 Sigiriya
Enjoy an early breakfast, then visit the Lions Rock of Sigiriya! This impressive 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage Site rises approximately 600 feet from the plains, overlooking the surrounding countryside. Take in unbelievable views of Sri Lanka's breathtaking natural beauty! In the afternoon, you'll drive to the incredible cave temple of Dambulla! Admire ancient walls adorned with frescoes, geometric designs, and warm orange and gold colors. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an amazing taste of ancient Sri Lankan history.
Day 4 Sigiriya - Kandy
Fuel up with breakfast, then head for the hills! Enjoy a scenic drive to the picturesque town of Kandy. Along the way, you'll make a pit stop at a spice garden near Matale. See and smell various spices and herbs, and consider stocking up on massage oils, cooking spices, or Ayurvedic medicines! One of Sri Lanka's most charming towns, Kandy is famous for its gorgeous lakeside setting. It's also home to the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth, a significant sacred Buddhist site that contains a tooth of Buddha, collected from his funeral pyre! Upon arrival, enjoy a special visit to this famous temple. In the afternoon, you'll enjoy a Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre! Admire rhythmic dancers and tap along to drums as you partake of this vibrant spectacle.
Day 5 Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, start off your day with beautiful flora and fauna. Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya and see all sorts of tropical indigenous and exotic plants, including those of coffee, tea, nutmeg, and Java fig. Next, you'll journey on to Nuwara Eliya via Ramboda Falls. Along the way, make a visit to a local tea factory, where you'll witness the process of producing tea and try a cup of fine Sri Lankan tea for yourself! Located at a soaring altitude of 6,128 feet, Nuwara Eliya is a picturesque town known to many as "Little England," as it was a popular English vacation destination during colonial times. Much of the architecture still reflects this cultural touch! Upon arrival in this beautiful area, check into your next accommodation and spend the evening at leisure.
Day 6 Nuwara Eliya - Beruwala
Enjoy an energizing breakfast then journey to Beruwala, home to one of the longest beaches in Sri Lanka! Beruwala is an unspoiled fishing village, filled with colorful streets that are lined with charming shops and stalls. Check into your hotel then spend the rest of the day however you'd like! Take a dip in the ocean, lounge on the golden sand, or stroll through the quaint streets of local vendors.
Day 7 Beruwala - Galle - Beruwala
It may be your last full day in Sri Lanka, but the fun is nowhere near over! After breakfast, set off for a drive along the southern shores of Sri Lanka to the must-see city of Galle. Rich with colonial architecture, Galle is known for its 17th-century Dutch Fort - a UNESCO World Heritage Site! Visit this beautiful attraction and take in the charm of this fascinating city. In the late afternoon, you'll journey back to Beruwala for one final night. Be sure to check all the local sites, restaurants, and shops off your Beruwala bucket list before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 8 Depart Sri Lanka
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your suitcase and say "see ya" to Sri Lanka. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to the airport, then spend your flight home replaying wonderful memories and dreaming about your next adventure!
