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
Itinerary
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Why this trip?
Long-stay travelers, explorers, cultural enthusiasts, and guests seeking a complete Sri Lanka journey. Perfect for those who want to experience the island without rushing, with ample time at each destination.
Operated By
RedKnot Tours
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