#2. Sri Lanka Beach & Hill Country Tour 

#2. Sri Lanka Beach & Hill Country Tour - 12N13D

Alright, so if you're planning a whirlwind tour of Sri Lanka, you can't miss these gems! Start off in Bentota, where the beaches are stunning and perfect for some chill time or water sports. Then, head down to Mirissa, famous for whale watching—you might just spot a blue whale breaching! Next up is Yala National Park—get ready for an adventurous safari to see leopards and fabulous wildlife. After that, Ella offers breathtaking views and lush tea plantations; don’t forget to hike Little Adam’s Peak. Hop over to Haputale for that postcard-perfect scenery—it’s cool and misty! Kandy's cultural richness is hard to beat; visit the Temple of the Tooth there. Finally, relax in Negombo by the beach, soaking up local flavors before wrapping up your journey. Each stop has its own vibe—perfect for a memorable trip!

#2. Sri Lanka Beach & Hill Country Tour - 12N13D

Tour Highlight

Bentota, renowned for its stunning beaches and water sports, serves as an idyllic starting point for travelers seeking relaxation and adventure. Mirissa, a charming coastal town, offers remarkable whale watching opportunities and vibrant nightlife along its golden shores. Moving inland, Yala National Park presents an exhilarating experience with its diverse wildlife, including leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. Ella enchants visitors with breathtaking vistas of tea plantations and scenic hikes such as the famed Nine Arches Bridge trek. Nearby Haputale captivates with its panoramic views and cooler climate, making it perfect for exploring lush landscapes. Kandy, steeped in history, boasts the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that draws cultural enthusiasts. Finally, Negombo's lively fishing scene and colonial architecture provide a picturesque conclusion to this eclectic tour of Sri Lanka's captivating highlights. Each destination collectively showcases the island's rich cultural tapestry and natural beauty.

Day 1 – Colombo Airport Arrival – Transfer to Bentota
Approximate travel time: 2.00 hrs. | Distance: 120 km

• Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), you will be warmly welcomed by your guide/driver.

• Begin your journey with a scenic transfer to the coastal town of Bentota, renowned for its golden beaches and tranquil ambiance.

• Check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing by the beach or enjoying resort facilities.

• Overnight stay in Bentota.

Day 2 – Leisure Day in Bentota
Approximate travel time: 0.00 hrs. | Distance: Local travel only

• Enjoy a full day at leisure in the beautiful coastal town of Bentota.

• You can choose to simply relax by the beach, take a swim, or indulge in water sports like jet skiing, snorkeling, or windsurfing.

• Alternatively, explore local attractions such as the Madu River Safari, Brief Garden, or Turtle Hatchery on your own.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Bentota.

Day 3 – Bentota to Mirissa
Approximate travel time: 2.00 hrs. | Distance: 90 km

• After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Bentota and begin your coastal drive south to Mirissa, a popular beach destination known for its laid-back vibe and whale watching.

• En route, stop to explore the historic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rich in colonial history and charm.

• Visit the Maritime Archaeology Museum (Naval Museum) located within the fort, showcasing fascinating exhibits from Sri Lanka’s seafaring past.

• Continue your journey to Mirissa and check in to your beachside hotel.

• Spend the evening relaxing or enjoying a walk along the golden shores.

• Overnight stay in Mirissa.

Day 4 – Mirissa
Approximate travel time: 0.00 hrs. | Distance: 0 km

• Early morning: Set off on an unforgettable whale and dolphin watching tour in Mirissa (seasonal, typically November to April). Spot blue whales, sperm whales, and playful spinner dolphins in their natural habitat.

• Return to the hotel for breakfast and enjoy a leisurely afternoon by the beach — sunbathe, swim, or explore the local cafes and shops.

• Optional: Visit the Parrot Rock for panoramic views or enjoy a beachfront massage.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Mirissa.

Day 5 – Mirissa to Yala (Tissamaharama)
Approximate travel time: 3.00 hrs. | Distance: 120 km

• After breakfast, leave Mirissa and journey inland towards Tissamaharama, the gateway to Yala National Park — one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuaries.

• Upon arrival, prepare for an afternoon safari in Yala National Park, where you may encounter leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, and a wide variety of bird species.

• Enjoy the breathtaking landscapes of dry forests, lagoons, and rocky outcrops as you explore the park with an experienced guide.

• After the safari, return to your hotel and relax for the evening.

• Overnight stay at a hotel in Tissamaharama.

Day 6 – Yala to Ella
Approximate travel time: 2.00 hrs. | Distance: 90 km

• Begin the day with an early morning safari in Yala National Park, offering the best chance to spot elusive leopards, elephants, and other wildlife in the tranquil morning hours.

• After the safari, depart for the scenic hill town of Ella, a favorite among nature lovers and adventure seekers.

• On route, stop by the Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous waterfalls, ideal for photos and a refreshing break.

• Upon arrival in Ella, check in and enjoy the cool climate and relaxed vibe of the town.

• Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.

Day 7 – Explore Ella
Approximate travel time: 0.00 hrs. | Distance: 0 km

• Spend the day exploring the charming hill town of Ella, known for its stunning scenery, tea plantations, and relaxed atmosphere.

• Start your morning with a hike to Little Adam’s Peak, offering panoramic views of the valley and surrounding hills.

• Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era railway bridge nestled in lush greenery — perfect for photography.

• Optionally, take a tea factory tour to learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned Ceylon tea production.

• Enjoy some leisure time exploring local cafes, markets, or simply relax and take in the mountain views.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Ella.

Day 8 – Ella to Haputale
Approximate travel time: 0.5 hrs. | Distance: 20 km

• After breakfast, depart the scenic town of Ella and head towards the cooler, misty hills of Haputale, a quaint highland village surrounded by lush tea plantations.

• Visit the famous Lipton’s Seat, a breathtaking viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton once surveyed his tea empire — perfect for panoramic photos and serene views.

• Explore the charming Adisham Bungalow, a Benedictine monastery housed in a beautiful Tudor-style mansion with lush gardens and colonial charm.

• Take time to walk through the surrounding tea estates, interact with local tea pluckers, or simply enjoy the tranquility.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Haputale.

Day 9 – Haputale – Horton Plains – Kitulgala
Approximate travel time: 3.00 hrs. | Distance: 100 km

• After an early breakfast, depart from Haputale and travel via Ohiya to reach the stunning Horton Plains National Park.

• Embark on the popular 8 km circular nature trail, which includes highlights like World’s End, Mini World’s End, and the beautiful Baker’s Falls.

• After completing your walk, continue the scenic drive to Kitulgala, passing through lush tea plantations and stopping at picturesque waterfalls along the way.

• Upon arrival in Kitulgala, you can choose to enjoy white-water rafting on the Kelani River or explore the historic Belilena Cave, a prehistoric site where ancient human remains have been discovered.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Kitulgala.

Day 10 – Kitulgala to Kandy
Approximate travel time: 1.5 hrs. | Distance: 70 km

• Start your morning in Kitulgala with optional adventure activities such as white-water rafting, jungle trekking, or bird watching in the nearby Makandawa Forest Reserve, known for its biodiversity and scenic trails.

• After your nature-filled morning, proceed to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.

• In the evening, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the country.

• Enjoy a peaceful evening by Kandy Lake or take a stroll through the city center.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Kandy.

Day 11 – Kandy – Pilimathalawa – Kandy
Approximate travel time: 0.5 hrs. | Distance: 20 km

• Morning: Begin your day with a visit to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, renowned for its vast collection of tropical plants, orchids, and the majestic avenue of palm trees. The garden is perfect for a peaceful stroll amidst nature.

• Mid-morning: Proceed to Pilimathalawa to explore the Gadaladeniya, Lankathilaka, and Embekke Temples, each of which showcases unique architectural styles and rich historical significance.

• Afternoon: Return to Kandy and enjoy some leisure time. You are free to walk around the bustling Kandy city, where you can visit local markets, shops, and cafes or simply enjoy the scenic beauty around Kandy Lake.

• Evening: Witness a captivating Cultural Show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dance and drumming, which offers an excellent insight into the local cultural heritage.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Kandy.

Day 12 – Kandy – Pinnawala – Negombo
Approximate travel time: 2.5 hrs. | Distance: 100 km

• Morning: After breakfast, depart from Kandy and travel to Pinnawala, home to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage.

• Upon arrival, enjoy a close-up encounter with elephants as they are bathed in the Maha Oya River. You may also have the opportunity to ride an elephant through the surrounding lush forest.

• Mid-morning: Explore the orphanage's facilities, where you can learn about the rehabilitation efforts for orphaned elephants and witness the majestic creatures feeding and playing.

• Afternoon: After your time at Pinnawala, continue your journey to Negombo, a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere.

• Evening: Upon arrival in Negombo, check into your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening by the beach.

• Overnight stay at hotel in Negombo.

Day 13 – Negombo – Colombo Airport (BIA) – Departure
Approximate travel time: 0.5 hrs. | Distance: 30 km

• Morning: After breakfast, check out from your hotel in Negombo and head towards Colombo International Airport (BIA), ensuring ample time for your flight.

• Depending on your flight schedule, we will drop you off at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for check-in and security procedures.

• End of the tour: With fond memories of Sri Lanka's culture, history, and stunning landscapes, your unforgettable journey comes to an end.

• Departure from Colombo Airport as your tour concludes. Safe travels!