#15. Breathtaking Sri Lanka Holiday – 9 Days
Experience the very best of Sri Lanka on this breathtaking, picture-perfect sightseeing holiday. From sun-kissed beaches to lush green landscapes and fresh, tropical air, this journey offers a true taste of the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness. For those who crave flexibility and independence, choose our convenient car rental package and create your own unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure—on your terms, at your pace.
#15. Breathtaking Sri Lanka Holiday – 8 Nights 9 Days
Highlight of the tour:
Embark on a scenic journey through Sri Lanka’s most enchanting landscapes and cultural gems. Begin with the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, then travel through Matale to the cultural capital of Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Tooth. Venture into the lush rainforest of Kitulgala, a hub for adventure and nature lovers, before ascending to the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England.” Continue to Ella, a charming hill town offering breathtaking views and tea country trails. Witness majestic wildlife at Udawalawe National Park, then unwind on the golden beaches of Mirissa. Conclude your unforgettable journey with a departure from Colombo, carrying memories of Sri Lanka’s diverse beauty and rich heritage.
DAY 1 – Arrival at Colombo Airport – Transfer to Sigiriya
Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, you will be warmly greeted and begin your journey to Sigiriya. Once in Sigiriya, depending on your arrival time, you can choose to climb either the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress or the nearby Pidurangala Rock Monastery for stunning panoramic views of the surrounding plains.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
DAY 2 – Sigiriya – Dambulla – Matale – Kandy
After breakfast, begin your journey to Kandy with several enriching stops along the way. First, visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its remarkable cave paintings and Buddha statues. Continue through Matale, where you may opt to visit Nalanda Gedige, explore fragrant spice gardens, see traditional Batik workshops, and visit the historic Aluvihare Temple. Upon arrival in Kandy, enjoy a vibrant cultural dance show starting at 5:00 PM, followed by a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa)—a deeply revered Buddhist site.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
DAY 3 – Kandy – Kitulgala – Nuwara Eliya
Depart from your hotel in Kandy and travel towards Nuwara Eliya, stopping en route in Kitulgala, a haven for nature and adventure lovers. Here, you can engage in white-water rafting, canoeing, trekking, bird watching, or even explore the prehistoric Belilena Cave, believed to be one of the oldest human settlements in Sri Lanka. Continue your scenic drive through lush tea plantations, pausing to sip a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea and admire a series of breathtaking waterfalls along the way. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a relaxing walk through the town’s cool climate and colonial charm.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
DAY 4 – Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains – Nuwara Eliya
After an early breakfast, set out on a scenic excursion to Horton Plains National Park, a stunning plateau located over 2,000 meters above sea level. Enjoy a refreshing trek through mist-covered grasslands and cloud forests to iconic viewpoints such as World’s End and Baker’s Falls. After soaking in the beauty of this unique ecosystem, return to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing evening.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
DAY 5 – Nuwara Eliya – Haputale – Ella
This morning, board the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Haputale, one of the most breathtaking rail journeys in the world, offering sweeping views of tea-covered hills and misty valleys. Upon arrival in Haputale, enjoy local sightseeing including a visit to the iconic Lipton’s Seat, a viewpoint made famous by tea pioneer Sir Thomas Lipton. Later, continue your journey to Ella, a charming hill town surrounded by lush greenery. If time permits, explore some of Ella’s popular attractions such as the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak.
Overnight stay in Ella.
DAY 6 – Ella to Udawalawe
Depart from your hotel in Ella and journey south to Udawalawe, home to one of Sri Lanka’s best national parks for wildlife viewing. Upon arrival, embark on an exciting afternoon safari at Udawalawe National Park, renowned for its large population of elephants, as well as buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species. After the safari, check in to your hotel.
Overnight stay in Udawalawe.
DAY 7 – Udawalawe to Mirissa
After breakfast, depart from Udawalawe and travel to the idyllic beach town of Mirissa on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Check in to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure—relax on the golden sands, take a dip in the ocean, or explore the laid-back coastal surroundings.
Overnight stay in Mirissa.
DAY 8 – Mirissa to Colombo
After breakfast, depart from Mirissa and head towards Colombo. On route, you have the option to visit various tourist attractions according to your interests. Continue your journey to Colombo and check into your hotel for an overnight stay.
Overnight stay in Colombo.
DAY 9 – Colombo to Colombo Airport – End of Tour
Depending on your departure flight schedule, you will leave Colombo approximately 4 hours before your flight time. You will be transferred to Colombo Airport for your onward journey, marking the end of your memorable Sri Lanka tour.