Overview
A classic highlights route covering Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights — ideal for first-time visitors seeking a complete yet relaxed overview of the island.
A magical journey through ancient kingdoms, misty mountains, golden beaches, and soulful island life.
Your adventure begins along the coastal serenity of Negombo before taking you into the heart of the Cultural Triangle, where ancient wonders such as Dambulla, Sigiriya, and Polonnaruwa bring history to life. Immerse yourself in village traditions, cooking rituals, and rural landscapes that preserve Sri Lanka’s timeless culture.
Continue into the lush central hills from the aromatic spice gardens of Matale to the sacred temples and serene lake views of Kandy. The journey then leads you through mist-covered tea country, a visit to charming plantations, and the world-famous train ride to Ella, celebrated globally as one of the most scenic rail journeys on earth.
In Ella, vibrant mountain adventures await Little Adam’s Peak, Ravana Falls, and relaxation at the Ravana Pool Club, all surrounded by breathtaking views.
Next, step into the wild at Yala National Park, home to elephants, leopards, and exotic wildlife, before unwinding on the tranquil beaches of Bentota. River safaris, sea turtles, temples, gardens, and tropical sunsets add to your coastal bliss.
Your final days take you to Mirissa’s iconic viewpoints and palm-framed beaches, followed by a cultural farewell at the historic Galle Fort the perfect ending to a journey filled with beauty, meaning, and discovery.
Thoughtfully designed with comfort, diversity, and rich experiences in mind, this itinerary is ideal for travelers who want to experience Sri Lanka from every angle — history, culture, wildlife, adventure, and the coastline all in one seamless journey.
From ancient cities to ocean sunsets, this is Sri Lanka at its most authentic.
An unforgettable island journey awaits you.
Highlights
- Explore the historic Dutch Canal in Negombo
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Discover ancient Polonnaruwa and its ruins
- Witness a Kandyan dance show in Kandy
- Ride through tea estates on a scenic train
Itinerary
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [20 MIN]
Upon arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, a friendly representative from Panoramic Tour will warmly welcome you and assist with a smooth transfer to your hotel in Negombo. Take some time to refresh and relax while enjoying the coastal breeze.
If time permits, embark on a guided Negombo city tour stroll along the historic Dutch Canal, visit the Fish Market bustling with local life, and admire colonial churches and coastal charm.
In the evening, enjoy a complimentary welcome dinner hosted by Panoramic Tour, featuring authentic Sri Lankan and international flavors. Unwind and let the island rhythm set the tone for your adventure.
Day plan
- Warm airport welcome by Panoramic Tour representative
- Transfer & check-in at hotel in Negombo
- Guided city tour: Dutch Canal, Fish Market & beach walk (if time permits)
- Relaxation in Negombo beach
- Complimentary welcome dinner
Accommodation: Sea Horse Hotel & SPA (3-4 STAR) OR SIMILAR
Meals: Complimentary Dinner
Activities: Negombo City Tour, Fish Market, Dutch Canel
Physical rating: Low (light walking if city tour is done)
After breakfast, journey toward Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Your first stop is the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site adorned with ancient murals and over 150 Buddha statues a true masterpiece of devotion and artistry.
Continue to Sigiriya Village for a hands-on cultural experience: enjoy a bullock cart ride, a catamaran boat trip, and a visit to a traditional village home where you’ll join a Sri Lankan cooking demonstration and savor your own meal served on a banana leaf.
Later, climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the island’s most iconic landmarks. Discover its frescoes, water gardens, and ancient palace ruins while taking in the sunset view from the summit.
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
- Sigiriya Village Tour, Bullock cart ride, Catamaran ride, and A cooking session
- Evening climb to Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Overnight stay in Sigiriya
Included: Dambulla Cave Entry Tickets, Sigiriya Village tour, Bullock cart ride, Catamaran ride and A cooking session
Accommodation: Oak Ray Elephant Lake (3-4 STAR) OR SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Activities: Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Village Tour, Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Physical rating: Medium
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [1 HR 30 MIN]
After breakfast, set out to explore Polonnaruwa Ancient City, Polonnaruwa is one of Sri Lanka’s most important UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering a remarkable glimpse into the island’s ancient kingdoms. Once a powerful royal capital, the city is filled with well-preserved temples, palaces, statues, and monuments that showcase the brilliance of early Sinhalese architecture.
Visit highlights like Lankathilaka Image House, Rankoth Vihara, Sacred Quadrangle, and the Gal Vihara Buddha statues masterpieces of stone carving that showcase the height of ancient craftsmanship.
Return to Sigiriya for a peaceful evening, perhaps enjoying a spa treatment or local market stroll.
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Guided tour of Polonnaruwa Ancient City
- Explore temples, stupas & historic ruins
- Return to Sigiriya for relaxation
Accommodation: Oak Ray Elephant Lake (3-4 STAR) OR SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Guided City Tour In Polonnaruwa, Lankathilaka Image House, Rankoth Vihara, Sacred Quadrangle
Physical rating: Medium
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [2 HR 50 MIN]
After breakfast, travel to Kandy, is Sri Lanka’s sacred hill-country capital, known for its rich heritage, misty mountains, and spiritual charm. Surrounded by lush forests and scenic viewpoints, the city is home to the world-famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the country.
En route, stop at a Matale Spice Garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s aromatic spices and their uses in traditional cooking and Ayurveda.Visitors can enjoy a guided walk through the garden, learn about the health benefits of each plant, and see how authentic Sri Lankan spices are processed
Upon arrival in Kandy, visit the tranquil Kandy Lake and the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa), where a relic of the Buddha is enshrined.
In the evening, enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance show featuring vibrant costumes and traditional drumming, followed by free time to explore the Kandy city bazaar and local handicraft shops.
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit Matale Spice Garden
- Sightseeing at Kandy Lake
- Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Visit Kandy view point
- Traditional cultural dance performance – Own expense (Subject to Availability)
- Overnight stay in Kandy
Accommodation: Oak Ray Heritage (3-4 STAR) OR SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Matale Spice Garden, Kandy Lake, Temple Of Tooth Relic, Kandy View Point, Kandy Traditional Dance (Subject to Availability)
Physical rating: Medium (Walk Around spice Garden and Kandy Lake)
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [3 HR 28 MIN]
After breakfast, depart for Nuwara Eliya, stop at a tea plantation and factory to witness the process of crafting world-famous Ceylon Tea from leaf plucking to tasting.
Then board the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella, one of the most breathtaking train journeys in the world, passing misty mountains and lush tea estates. You’ll pass through iconic sights like Demodara Loop and approach Ella, where the scenery becomes even more dramatic with sheer cliffs and lush forest canopies. Photographers, nature lovers, and adventure seekers all treasure this ride for its unmatched beauty and peaceful atmosphere.
Upon arrival in Ella, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era architectural wonder nestled amidst the forest. Enjoy the evening at leisure. Visitors can walk along the tracks, enjoy panoramic views from the surrounding tea fields, or simply wait for the iconic blue train to pass a moment that creates one of the most magical and cinematic scenes in Ella.
Surrounded by misty mountains, vibrant greenery, and a peaceful atmosphere, the Nine Arch Bridge offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and photography. It’s a must-visit highlight for every traveler exploring Ella.
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit tea plantation & factory with tasting
- Train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella (2HR 48 MIN)
- Visit Nine Arches Bridge
- Overnight stay in Ella
Included: Train Tickets For Nanuoya Ella Train Journey
Accommodation: Ella Flower Garden (3-4 STAR) or SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Tea Plantation and Tea Tasting, Scenic Train Journey, Nine Arch Bridge
Physical rating: Medium (Walk in Tea plantation and Nine Arch Bridge)
Begin early with a sunrise hike to Little Adam’s Peak, offering panoramic views of Ella’s rolling hills. Return to the hotel for breakfast and relaxation. Little Adam’s Peak is one of Ella’s top attractions, offering a rewarding hike with minimal effort and maximum scenic beauty. The trail winds through lush tea plantations, gentle slopes, and panoramic mountain landscapes, making it suitable for all fitness levels.
Later, visit the Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque waterfalls. In the afternoon, head to the Ravana Pool Club unwind by the infinity pool, enjoy a refreshing drink, or try the famous Flying Ravana zipline for a thrill.
Spend the evening at leisure, exploring Ella’s cozy cafés or watching the sunset over the mountains.
Day plan
- Sunrise hike to Little Adam’s Peak
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit Ravana Falls
- Afternoon leisure at Ravana Pool Club
- Overnight stay in Ella
Included: Complementary Ravana pool Club Voucher
Accommodation: Ella Flower Garden (3-4 STAR) or SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Little Adams Peak, Ravana Water Falls, Ravana Pool Club Activities
Physical rating: Medium (Light Hike & Walking Involved)
TRAVEL TIME - APPROX [3 HR 55 MIN]
After breakfast, travel south to Yala National Park for an exciting jeep safari. Spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and diverse birdlife in their natural habitat. Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its incredible biodiversity and one of the highest leopard densities in the world. Stretching across vast grasslands, wetlands, and semi-arid forests, Yala offers a raw and unforgettable encounter with nature.
During a safari, visitors can spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, spotted deer, wild boar, water buffalo, and over 200 species of birds. The park’s dramatic landscapes from rocky outcrops to shimmering lagoons- create the perfect backdrop for photography and wildlife observation.
After your safari, continue your journey to Mirissa, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful beach towns. Upon arrival, check in to your resort and enjoy a relaxing evening by the ocean
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Jeep safari in Yala National Park (Own Expense)
- Transfer to Mirissa
- Evening relaxation by the beach
Accommodation: Mirissa Gate Resort (3-4 Star) or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Jeep Safari in Yala, Mirissa Beach
Physical rating: Low (Light Walks In Beach)
Wake up to the gentle sound of the waves and enjoy a relaxing breakfast. Begin your day by exploring two of Mirissa’s most iconic landmarks:
- Parrot Rock
Walk across the sandy pathway (depending on tide) to climb this rocky viewpoint for sweeping views of the Mirissa Bay.
- Coconut Tree Hill
Sri Lanka’s most Instagram-famous palm grove perfect for photography, drone shots, and enjoying the dramatic ocean views.
Spend the afternoon swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying beachside cafes. Optional activities include whale watching (seasonal), snorkeling, or surfing depending on your preference.
Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Visit Parrot Rock
- Visit Coconut Tree Hill
- Relaxation at Mirissa Beach
- Overnight stay in Mirissa
Accommodation: Mirissa Gate Resort (3-4 Star) or Similar
Meals: Breakfast
Activities: Parrot Rock, Coconut Tree Hill, Beach Leisure
Phyicial rating: Medium
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [2 HR 13 MIN]
After breakfast, depart from Mirissa and travel along Sri Lanka’s scenic southern coastline toward Galle, one of the island’s most historic and charming destinations.
Explore the Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, featuring cobblestone streets, colonial architecture, quaint cafés, boutique shops, and oceanfront views along the ramparts.
Continue your journey to Bentota, a serene beach town known for its wide sandy beaches, palm-fringed coastline, and peaceful atmosphere.
Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the evening relaxing by the beach.
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Day plan
- Breakfast at hotel
- Transfer from Mirissa to Galle
- Explore Galle Dutch Fort & Lighthouse
- Continue to Bentota
- Evening relaxation in Bentota
Accommodation: Wunderbar Beach Hotel (3-4 STAR) OR SIMILAR
Meals: Breakfast
activities: Galle Fort, Lighthouse, Bentota Beach
Physical rating: Low
TRAVEL TIME- APPROX [1 HR 55 MIN]
Enjoy your final breakfast in Bentota. Depending on your flight schedule, you may engage in optional activities:
OPTIONAL (If Time Permits):
- Bentota River Safari – Explore mangrove forests, birdlife, crocodiles & island waterways
- Water Sports – Jet skiing, banana boat rides, snorkeling & tubing
After your chosen activities, your private chauffeur will drive you to the airport for your departure.
Carry home the unforgettable memories of your Sri Lankan adventure its warm hospitality, breathtaking nature, and vibrant culture.
Day plan
- Breakfast & hotel checkout
- Optional: Bentota River Safari / Water Sports
- Private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport
- Departure
Activities: Bentota River Safari (Optional), Water Sports (Optional)
Physical rating: Light
Includes/Excludes
Includes
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- English-speaking chauffeur guide for the entire tour (other language-speaking chauffeur guides can be arranged on request)
- Complimentary water bottles
- Complimentary dinner on the first day of arrival
- 24/7 emergency local contact & assistance
- All days breakfast
- Dambulla cave temple entrance fees
- Sigiriya village tour
- Traditional bullock cart ride
- Catamaran boat ride
- village home hospitality experience
- Authentic Sri Lankan cooking session with ancient methods
- Traditional Sri Lankan lunch
- Visit Matale spice garden
- Tea plantation visit
- Tea tasting & factory experience
- Tea making process
- From Nanuoya to Ella train tickets
- Complimentary Ravana pool club voucher
Excludes
- Airfare
- Insurance
- All entrance Tickets excluding Dambulla cave temple
- Traditional Kandyan dance show
- Ella spice garden cooking demonstration
- Ravana pool club additional activities
- Any expense of a personal nature
- Yala jeep safari
- Water sports in bentota
- Sea turtle hatchery
FAQs
- Airport pick-up & drop-off
- Private transport with driver/guide (as per your package)
- Accommodation in 3–4-star hotels (or similar)
- Meals listed in the itinerary (mostly breakfast + Day 1 dinner + Day 2 lunch)
- Included activities/tickets: Dambulla Cave tickets, Sigiriya Village Tour (bullock cart + catamaran + cooking), Nanu Oya → Ella train tickets, complimentary Ravana Pool Club voucher
- Yala National Park jeep safari (explicitly “Own Expense”)
- Kandyan cultural dance show (listed as own expense/subject to availability)
- Optional whale watching/snorkeling/surfing (Mirissa)
- Optional Bentota River Safari & water sports
- Lunches/dinners not mentioned as included, personal expenses, tips, travel insurance
Mostly Low to Medium, with a few Medium/High moments
- Medium/High: Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb, Little Adam’s Peak hike
- Low: Negombo city walk, beaches, Galle Fort stroll, Bentota relaxation
If anyone prefers a lighter pace, you can skip or shorten the hikes.
Yes, it’s safe with normal caution. Expect about 2–3 hours total (including time at the top), with steps and some narrow areas. Best with good shoes + water.
Train tickets are included, but seat class depends on availability (Sri Lankan trains can sell out). If reserved seats aren’t available, you may still travel by train in an available class, or switch to a comfortable road transfer as a backup.
Whale watching is seasonal, typically best from November to April on the south coast. If you travel outside that window, sea conditions may reduce trips.
- Light cotton clothes + a warm layer for Kandy/Ella (cool evenings)
- Comfortable walking shoes (Sigiriya + Ella hikes)
- Temple wear: shoulders/knees covered + socks (temple floors can be hot)
- Sunscreen, hat, insect repellent
- Swimwear, flip-flops, small daypack
Yes. For Dambulla and Temple of the Tooth:
- Cover shoulders and knees
- Remove shoes/hat (carry socks)
- Respect photography rules inside sacred areas
Yes, great for couples and families. For kids/older travelers, you can:
- Replace Sigiriya climb with Pidurangala viewpoint/shorter options
- Do shorter hikes in Ella
- Keep beach days more relaxed
Safaris usually run early in the morning or in the afternoon. Morning starts are early; afternoon is a bit easier. Your team can choose based on travel timing and comfort.
Yes. If your priority is elephants + easier viewing, Udawalawe is often preferred. If your priority is leopard chance + dramatic landscapes, Yala is the classic choice.
Yes, there are a few longer travel days (ex, Ella → Yala → Mirissa flow). You can break these with stops, or adjust the order if you want a slower pace.
Most tourist towns accept cards, but cash is useful for Small shops, coconuts/street snacks, tips, local markets, and tuk-tuks
We recommend carrying some LKR daily and keeping the rest accessible via card/ATM.
Not mandatory, but appreciated. Typical tips go to: Driver/guide (main), hotel staff, safari jeep team (if you do it), porters
Yes, this itinerary is easy to upgrade. You can swap each hotel category while keeping the same route and activities.
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