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Grand Sri Lanka Explorer – 14 Days / 13 Nights

Duration14 Days / 13 NightsLocationNegombo • Anuradhapura • Sigiriya • Polonnaruwa • Dambulla • Kandy • Nuwara Eliya • Ella • Yala • Southern Coast • Galle • Bentota • ColomboPriceStarting from USD 1,390 per person
Grand Sri Lanka Explorer – 14 Days / 13 Nights

Overview

This is Sri Lanka in full. The Grand Sri Lanka Explorer is designed for travelers who want to experience the island deeply and unhurriedly. Ancient kingdoms, sacred cities, misty hill country, wildlife parks, and golden beaches are connected in a smooth island-wide circuit. This comprehensive journey covers all major highlights with comfortable pacing, allowing time to absorb the culture, landscapes, and authentic experiences. Ideal for long-stay travelers, explorers, and guests who want a complete understanding of Sri Lanka's culture and landscapes.

Highlights

Explore sacred Buddhist sites and ancient ruins in Anuradhapura
Climb the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise
Discover Polonnaruwa's well-preserved ancient city ruins
Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
Experience traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance
Journey through Ceylon's tea country in Nuwara Eliya
Visit working tea plantations and factories with tastings
Explore scenic Ella with waterfalls and Nine Arch Bridge
Wildlife safari in Yala National Park for leopards and elephants
Relax on pristine southern coast beaches
Walk through colonial Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover Colombo's vibrant city highlights
Optional elephant safari and Ayurvedic treatments

Itinerary

Day 01

Arrival – Negombo

Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Meet and greet by our representative. Short transfer to Negombo (30 minutes) for rest after the flight. Negombo is a charming coastal town with Dutch colonial heritage. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 02

Negombo – Anuradhapura

Travel north toward Anuradhapura (approximately 4 hours), Sri Lanka's first ancient capital. Visit sacred Buddhist sites and ancient ruins, including massive stupas, monasteries, the sacred Bodhi tree, and impressive stone carvings dating back over 2,000 years. Overnight in Anuradhapura.

Day 03

Anuradhapura – Sigiriya

Morning visit to key heritage locations in Anuradhapura. Continue toward the Cultural Triangle region near Sigiriya (approximately 2 hours). Evening at leisure surrounded by nature and lush greenery. Overnight in Sigiriya area.

Day 04

Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa

Early morning climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ascending 1,200 steps to the summit for breathtaking 360-degree views. Explore the ancient palace ruins, famous frescoes, and Mirror Wall. Later explore the ruins of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO site, where you can cycle or walk through palaces, temples, and massive Buddha statues from the 12th century. Overnight in the Sigiriya area.

Day 05

Sigiriya – Dambulla – Kandy

Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple complex, featuring ancient Buddhist cave murals and over 150 Buddha statues in various sizes. Proceed to Kandy (approximately 3 hours), stopping at spice gardens in Matale en route to learn about Sri Lanka's famous spices. Evening at leisure in Kandy.

Day 06

Kandy

Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Buddhism's most sacred shrine, housing a tooth of the Buddha. City tour including a gem museum to learn about Sri Lanka's precious stone heritage. Stroll around scenic Kandy Lake. Evening Kandyan cultural dance show showcasing traditional drumming, fire walking, and vibrant costumes.

Day 07

Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

Travel through scenic hill country landscapes to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 2.5 hours), passing through waterfalls and terraced tea estates. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 plant species. Tour a working tea plantation and factory to learn about Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup, with tasting included. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 08

Nuwara Eliya – Ella

Drive toward Ella (approximately 2.5 hours) with stops at waterfalls such as Ramboda Falls and scenic viewpoints overlooking tea valleys. Visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel set among tea plantations. Enjoy free time in charming Ella town with its cafes and relaxed atmosphere. Optional hike to Little Adam's Peak for sunset views.

Day 09

Ella – Yala Area

Scenic drive through southern hill country toward the wildlife region near Yala National Park (approximately 3 hours). Optional visit to Ravana Falls or Ella Rock in the morning. Journey through rural villages and changing landscapes. Overnight near Yala or Tissamaharama.

Day 10

Yala Safari – South Coast

Early morning jeep safari at Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve. Search for leopards (Yala has one of the highest leopard densities in the world), elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Continue toward the southern coast for beach relaxation. Overnight by the beach.

Day 11

Southern Coast

Free day by the beach to relax, swim, and enjoy the tropical paradise. Optional whale watching tour (seasonal, November-April), snorkeling, or other water sports. Optional visit to nearby fishing villages. Evening at leisure watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Day 12

Southern Coast – Galle – Bentota

Visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Dutch colonial architecture, charming streets, boutique shops, art galleries, and stunning ramparts with ocean views. Continue along the scenic coast to Bentota. Optional stop at turtle hatchery or Madu River. Overnight in Bentota.

Day 13

Bentota – Colombo

Optional river safari on the Madu River through mangrove forests or morning relaxation on Bentota beach. Transfer to Colombo (approximately 2 hours). City highlights tour covering Independence Square, Gangaramaya Temple, National Museum, Pettah Market, and seaside Galle Face Green. Shopping opportunities at local markets or modern malls. Overnight in Colombo.

Day 14

Colombo – Departure

Transfer to the airport for departure, concluding the tour. Depart with comprehensive memories of Sri Lanka's ancient heritage, natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and warm hospitality.

Included

  • Airport meet and greet on arrival and departure
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle for the entire tour
  • Experienced English-speaking driver
  • Fuel, toll charges, parking fees, and government taxes
  • Driver accommodation and meals
  • Daily breakfast and dinner at hotels
  • Accommodation in selected category hotels (3-4 star)
  • Kandy cultural dance show
  • All applicable service charges

Not Included

  • International air tickets
  • Sri Lanka visa fees
  • Entrance fees to attractions and national parks
  • Safari jeep charges and park entrance tickets
  • Lunches and beverages
  • Optional activities not mentioned under inclusions
  • Personal expenses such as tips and laundry
  • Travel insurance and medical expenses
  • Early check-in / Late check-out charges

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