7 Days Grand Journey Through Sri Lanka

Colombo | 

Sri Lanka

Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural treasures, misty highlands, and wildlife-rich parks on this immersive seven-day journey through ancient cities, tea country, and coastal sanctuaries.

Overview

Embark on a 7-day odyssey through Sri Lanka, a land where history, culture, and nature intertwine harmoniously. Your adventure begins in Colombo, the bustling capital, offering a vibrant tapestry of colonial architecture, bustling markets, and diverse cuisine. Journey north to Dambulla to marvel at the ancient cave temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues.

Ascend the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, where panoramic views reward your climb up the 200-meter-high monolith. In Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and immerse yourself in traditional dance performances that narrate tales of the island’s rich heritage.

Traverse the scenic landscapes to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” with its rolling tea plantations and cool climate. Here, you’ll witness the art of tea production and savour some of the world’s finest Ceylon tea. Conclude your journey in Beruwela, where golden sands and azure waters invite relaxation, and the vibrant marine life offers snorkelling adventures.

Throughout this journey, you’ll be accommodated in carefully selected hotels that blend comfort with local charm, ensuring a restful retreat after each day’s exploration. This tour encapsulates the essence of Sri Lanka, leaving you with memories of a land rich in history, culture, and natural beauty.

Inclusions
  • Accommodation in selected hotels with daily breakfast and dinner
  • Airport transfers and transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • English-speaking chauffeur guide services
  • Entrance fees to Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and tea plantation
  • Cultural dance performance in Kandy
  • All applicable taxes and service charges
Highlights
  • Explore Colombo’s vibrant markets, temples, and colonial landmarks
  • Visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple with its ancient Buddhist art
  • Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress for panoramic views
  • Experience Kandy’s rich cultural heritage and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic
  • Discover the lush tea plantations and colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya
  • Relax on the golden beaches of Beruwela and enjoy optional coastal excursions
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo – Pinnawala – Kandy

Arrive in Colombo and set off immediately for Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital and cultural heart. En route, stop at the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Home to rescued and orphaned elephants, this sanctuary offers the chance to observe these gentle giants bathing in the river and being cared for by keepers. It’s a heartwarming first encounter with Sri Lanka’s commitment to wildlife conservation.

Continue on to Kandy, nestled among hills and shimmering lakes. In the afternoon, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist temples in the country. Said to house a tooth of the Buddha himself, this golden-roofed shrine is deeply spiritual and stunningly ornate. As evening falls, attend a traditional cultural dance show—complete with drummers, fire acts, and vibrant costumes—that celebrates the island’s artistic traditions.

Accommodation: Hotel in Kandy

Day 2: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, journey into the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England” for its cool climate, colonial buildings, and beautiful gardens. On the way, visit a lush tea plantation and factory to learn how Ceylon tea is grown and processed. Taste the freshness straight from the source while walking through velvety green hillsides.

On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, stroll around Gregory Lake or browse the local market for fresh fruit and handmade textiles. The town’s blend of British charm and Sri Lankan flavour makes it a refreshing contrast to the warmer lowlands. Surrounded by rolling hills, waterfalls, and colourful flowerbeds, Nuwara Eliya is a peaceful pause in the itinerary and an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Day 3: Nuwara Eliya – Yala

After breakfast, drive south towards Yala, home to Sri Lanka’s most visited national park. The route descends from cool hill country into the dry lowlands, passing rivers, rice fields, and rural villages. Check in to your lodge or resort near Yala and prepare for a real change of pace.

In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling safari through Yala National Park, where the dense scrub and open grasslands are prime territory for leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and hundreds of bird species. Keep your camera ready and your eyes sharp—wildlife sightings can be sudden and spectacular. Sunset over the park is a memorable scene, casting golden light across the plains as peacocks dance and deer gather by waterholes.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel near Yala National Park

Day 4: Yala – Bentota

Depart Yala after breakfast and head west to Bentota, a coastal town known for its golden beaches and winding rivers. The journey reveals a softer side of Sri Lanka, passing quaint fishing villages, coconut groves, and glimpses of the Indian Ocean.

On arrival, check into your beachside resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Whether it’s lounging by the pool, walking along the sand, or indulging in a sunset cocktail, Bentota is all about slowing down. If you’re in the mood for exploring, optional activities include a boat safari on the Madu Ganga River, known for its mangrove forests and islet temples.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bentota

Day 5: Bentota – Galle – Bentota

This morning, travel along the coastal road to Galle, a beautifully preserved colonial town encircled by 17th-century Dutch fortifications. Explore the cobbled streets, historic churches, art galleries, and boutique cafes tucked behind the fort walls. The fusion of European architecture and Sri Lankan soul creates a laid-back charm that’s hard to resist.

After wandering the fort, return to Bentota in the afternoon. Relax by the beach or enjoy a rejuvenating Ayurvedic massage. The rest of the day is yours to spend however you like—whether that’s diving into seafood, swimming in the sea, or simply doing nothing at all.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Bentota

Day 6: Bentota – Colombo

After a relaxed breakfast, drive back to Colombo, the country’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, take a short sightseeing tour of the city. Visit key landmarks such as the Gangaramaya Temple, the seaside Galle Face Green, and the colourful Pettah Market. Learn how this once-sleepy port has grown into a dynamic hub blending colonial heritage with modern energy.

Enjoy some last-minute shopping at ODEL or Barefoot, where local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs make excellent gifts or keepsakes. In the evening, choose to dine in one of Colombo’s contemporary restaurants or watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean from your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Hotel in Colombo

Day 7: Depart Colombo

After breakfast, transfer to the airport in time for your onward flight. As you say goodbye to Sri Lanka’s warm hospitality, lush landscapes, and timeless traditions, the memories of temples, tea hills, and wildlife will stay with you long after you return home.

Meals: Breakfast

Terms & Conditions

Price & Availability
All bookings are subject to availability at the time of your request. Once we receive your booking enquiry, we’ll confirm availability within 24 hours.
Prices are quoted in Australian Dollars (AUD). If your package includes services priced in other currencies, currency conversion will be processed at midnight (AEST) each day. Please be aware that due to the constantly changing nature of exchange rates and supplier pricing, all package prices are subject to change until full payment is received and booking is confirmed.

Self-Guided Packages – Terms & Conditions
Our Self-Guided Packages are designed for travellers who want the freedom to explore independently, without the hassle of planning every detail. Each package follows a tried-and-tested itinerary that includes a combination of pre-booked services, such as accommodation and transport, and optional group tours or private experiences. You’ll have the flexibility to discover each destination at your own pace, with the confidence of having essential logistics taken care of and access to local support if needed.

Accommodation Flexibility
We understand that every traveller has different needs, so our itineraries offer flexibility in accommodation. You can choose from a range of hotels, from 3-star options to 4-star properties, in most locations. If your first-choice hotel is not available at the time of booking, we will offer you an alternative with a similar standard, quality, and location.
Travellers are welcome to customise their accommodation preferences before confirming their booking. If you’re unsure about the best options for your travel style, our team is happy to recommend alternatives.

Booking On Request
All packages are offered on a request basis. In most cases, a deposit may be required before we can secure accommodation and services.
Once we receive your deposit and booking enquiry, we aim to confirm your package within 24 hours (longer if weekends or public holidays apply).
If your preferred travel dates are not available, we’ll suggest the closest alternatives or offer a full refund of your deposit.

Dynamic Pricing
Many of our accommodation providers and local suppliers use dynamic pricing models, which means prices fluctuate depending on factors such as demand, travel seasons, and availability.
Our listed “from” prices represent the lowest available rates based on low-season travel with full availability. When you request a quote for your preferred travel dates, we’ll provide an accurate, up-to-date price based on availability at the time of quoting.
Prices may vary between the time we provide a quote and when you confirm your booking. Should there be any price differences, we will notify you before final confirmation and payment.

Itinerary Order & Availability
The order of your itinerary, including accommodation, tours, and transport, may be adjusted to secure the best availability and ensure a smooth travel experience. While we strive to follow the proposed itinerary as closely as possible, changes may be necessary, particularly during peak travel periods or when bookings are made close to your departure date.
For bookings made well in advance and outside of peak seasons, itinerary changes are uncommon. Any adjustments will be communicated to you in advance and are made with the aim of maintaining or improving the overall experience.
The final itinerary—including the order of your activities and accommodations—will be confirmed after your booking is secured.

Payment Terms
• A deposit may be required to secure your booking.
• Full payment is due no later than 45 days prior to your scheduled arrival date.
• If additional deposits are required by certain hotels or service providers, we will advise you at the time of confirmation.
• Your booking is not confirmed until full payment is received.
• Payments can be made via direct deposit, credit card, or other approved methods (merchant fees may apply).

Changes & Cancellations
• Your deposit is non-refundable once your booking is confirmed.
• Changes to your booking are permitted up to 45 days prior to departure, subject to availability and supplier approval. Additional fees may apply depending on the nature of the change.
• Cancellations within 45 days of arrival will incur a 100% cancellation fee, unless otherwise stated in your booking confirmation.
• Any rail tickets and flight tickets included in your package are non-refundable once issued and confirmed. These are subject to airline and supplier policies, which may include strict cancellation and amendment terms.
• We recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking to protect against unforeseen changes or cancellations.

Additional Information
• Please review visa requirements, health advice, and local regulations for your chosen destination prior to travel.
• We recommend allowing extra time for processing visas or travel documentation, especially during busy travel seasons.
• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings to cover unexpected events, including illness, cancellations, or delays.

Price on Application
Trip Summary
● Duration:
7 Days
● Starts: Colombo
● Ends: Colombo
● Trip Type: Self Guided Tour with Group Experiences
● Accommodation: 3-Star or 4-Star Hotel
● Transportation: Airport transfers and transportation with experienced English-speaking driver/guide

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