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Highlights · 9 Nights / 10 Days

Sri Lanka Grand Tour

Ten days across the whole island — the Cultural Triangle, Kandy, the tea country, the Ella train, a Yala safari and the southern coast.

9 Nights / 10 Days 1–12 travellers Starts Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) Private tour

About this tour

Ten days is the sweet spot for a first visit. This route takes in Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic at Kandy, the high tea estates around Nuwara Eliya, the blue-train ride down to Ella, a leopard safari at Yala, and finishes with the Dutch fort at Galle and time by the sea.

Nothing feels rushed, and every drive is broken up with something worth stopping for.

Highlights

  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO)
  • Polonnaruwa Ancient City
  • Temple of the Tooth – Kandy
  • Tea Plantations & Hill Country
  • Scenic Train Ride (Nanu Oya → Ella)
  • Yala National Park Safari
  • Galle Dutch Fort
  • Beach & Coastal Experience
  • Colombo City Tour

Day-by-day itinerary

This is our recommended route. Everything on it can be swapped, dropped or extended — just say the word when you enquire.

Day 1

Arrival → Sigiriya (Night 1 of 2)

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your driver from Lanka Rides Travel . Begin your journey to the Cultural Triangle, passing local villages and scenic countryside. In the afternoon, enjoy a wildlife safari experience. Meet & greet at airport and transfer to Sigiriya (~4 hrs) Afternoon safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park Spot elephants, deer, birds, and wildlife Hotel check-in & relax

Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 2

Sigiriya (Night 2)

Start your day with an early climb to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress and enjoy breathtaking views. Later, experience authentic village life and explore ancient ruins. Early morning Sigiriya Lion Rock climb Enjoy panoramic jungle views Village tour with traditional activities Afternoon visit to Polonnaruwa ancient city Return to hotel & relax

Overnight: Sigiriya
Day 3

Sigiriya → Kandy (Night 1 of 2)

Travel to Kandy through scenic landscapes and spice gardens. Drive to Kandy (~3 hrs) Visit spice garden in Matale Kandy city walk & lake view Optional cultural dance show Evening leisure

Overnight: Kandy
Day 4

Kandy (Night 2)

Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural capital and its most sacred sites. Visit Temple of the Tooth Relic Explore Royal Botanical Gardens Visit local markets & gem museum Enjoy city views and relaxation

Overnight: Kandy
Day 5

Kandy → Nuwara Eliya (Night 1)

Travel into the hill country surrounded by tea plantations. Scenic drive through tea estates Visit tea factory & enjoy tea tasting Stop at waterfalls and viewpoints Explore Gregory Lake & town

Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
Day 6

Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Yala (Night 1)

Enjoy one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella Visit Nine Arches Bridge & Ella viewpoints Travel to Yala (~3–4 hrs) Hotel check-in & relax

Overnight: Yala
Day 7

Yala → Galle (Night 1 of 2)

Experience wildlife and head towards the southern coast. Early morning Yala National Park safari Spot leopards, elephants & birds Travel to Galle (~4 hrs) Evening leisure near beach

Overnight: Galle
Day 8

Galle (Night 2)

Relax and explore the historic coastal city. Visit Galle Dutch Fort Walk along colonial streets & lighthouse Optional: Madhu River boat safari Optional: Turtle hatchery visit Beach relaxation

Overnight: Galle
Day 9

Galle → Colombo (Night 1)

Travel along the scenic coastline to Colombo. Coastal drive to Colombo Visit Gangaramaya Temple Visit Independence Square & Lotus Tower Shopping & city exploration

Overnight: Colombo
Day 10

Departure

End your unforgettable journey in Sri Lanka. Breakfast at hotel Transfer to airport Departure with amazing memories

What’s included

  • Private air-conditioned vehicle for the whole tour
  • English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Airport pick-up and drop-off
  • Fuel, tolls, parking and all driver expenses
  • Hotel accommodation with daily breakfast
  • Bottled water throughout the journey
  • 24/7 WhatsApp support while you are in Sri Lanka

Not included

  • International flights and Sri Lanka ETA visa
  • Entrance tickets to sites and national parks
  • Lunches, dinners and personal expenses
  • Travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Anything not listed under what is included

Well suited to

First-time visitorsCouplesFamiliesPhotographers

Gallery

Sri Lanka Grand Tour — photo 1
Sri Lanka Grand Tour — photo 2
Sri Lanka Grand Tour — photo 3
Sri Lanka Grand Tour — photo 4
Plan this trip

Tell us what you want from Sri Lanka Grand Tour

Every itinerary we run is private and rearranged around the people travelling. Send us a rough idea and we will come back with a day-by-day plan and a firm price.

  • A reply within 24 hoursUsually the same working day.
  • One fixed priceVehicle, driver, fuel and hotels in a single figure.
  • Change anythingRevise it as many times as you like before committing.
  • Nothing to pay nowNo card details, no deposit to get a plan.

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