Sri Lanka Essential Highlights
Start location: Colombo End location: Colombo Total number of days: 7 Key experiences or destinations: Colombo city sights and shopping, Dambulla’s ancient cave temples, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth and cultural show, tea plantations and colonial charm in Nuwara Eliya, beach relaxation in Unawatuna, Galle Fort’s Dutch heritage Get ready for a 7-day journey that kicks off and wraps up in Colombo. You’ll explore the vibrant capital, discover ancient cave temples in Dambulla, and soak up Kandy’s rich culture at the Temple of the Tooth. Enjoy scenic drives through tea country to Nuwara Eliya, where colonial charm meets misty hills. Then, unwind on the golden beaches of Unawatuna and wander the historic streets of Galle Fort. Expect a mix of history, culture, stunning landscapes and plenty of time to relax along the way.
For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Overview
Duration
7 daysHotel Rating
3-5 star hotelsStarts
ColomboEnds
ColomboMinimum Age
No minimum ageMaximum Age
Tours have upper age limits for several reasons, such as but not limited to: tour pace, activity level, and accommodation standards. If you fall outside of this age limit, we do have lots of other tours in Sri Lanka that are suitable for all ages!
Arrival Transfer
YesDeparture Transfer
YesTour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Country
Sri LankaPassengers
$1,376.25
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Style
Group Size
Min 2 / Max 15
Trip Type
Group Tours
Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Tour Guide
Yes - English speaking guide.Group Size
Min 2 / Max 15Range
This tour is operated by our trusted local partner and has been handpicked by us to deliver you an unforgettable trip.
Guiding Style
This tour includes scheduled sightseeing with expert guides in key destinations as per the Inclusions, as well as transportation (either with a driver or public transport), plus of course your accommodation. There is no single tour guide or tour leader throughout the trip. You’ll have support where it counts, and more freedom in between. Our cruise tours also fall into this category where you will be looked after by a crew. For more information, check the Inclusions of this tour.
Tour Pace
A balanced pace, with a mix of free time and visits to multiple locations, allowing for both relaxation and exploration. Generally doesn't visit more than one or two destinations per day.
Physical Rating
A moderate amount of walking is required during sightseeing, with some free time, offering a balance between activity and relaxation. As a general rule, you should be able to walk 2-kilometres without stopping.
Trip Type
Group ToursAccommodation Standard
Prices
Tour Highlights
Included
Not Included
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Itinerary
Day 1 - Colombo
Arrive at Colombo airport, where you’ll be met by our representative and transferred to your chosen hotel. The rest of the day is yours to relax and settle in at your own pace. If you wish, you can join an optional evening city and shopping tour of Colombo. This energetic city is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, known for its modern developments and historic sites. The tour takes you along the Race Course area—once a horse racing venue and wartime airstrip, now home to stylish boutiques and cafes. You can explore the lively Pettah district and its Floating Market, or see the emerging Colombo Port City with its parks and commercial spaces. The route continues past Independence Square and the Arcade, a former colonial building now transformed into a popular shopping and dining destination. You might choose to unwind with a drink at the Dutch Hospital complex, browse for local crafts and jewellery, or visit the Gangarama Temple to experience its tranquil atmosphere. For those interested in nightlife, Colombo offers a range of clubs and casinos. Depending on what’s on, you could also visit an exhibition at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall or catch a performance at the Nelum Pokuna Theatre. Overnight in Colombo.
Day 2 - Colombo - Dambulla - Sigiriya
After breakfast, we transfer to the Dambulla or Sigiriya area. Later, you may choose to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved cave paintings and over 150 statues of the Buddha. The temple complex, dating back to the 1st century BC, is an important site in Sri Lanka’s cultural and religious history. As you explore, you’ll see the impressive golden Buddha statue and the intricate artwork that lines the cave walls. Overnight in Dambulla or Sigiriya.
Day 3 - Dambulla - Sigiriya - Kandy
After breakfast, we travel to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Along the way, you may choose to visit a spice garden in Matale, a region known for its rich agricultural heritage and historic role in Sri Lanka’s spice trade. Here, you can learn about the cultivation and uses of local spices, and enjoy a cup of herbal tea if you wish.On arrival in Kandy, we visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the country’s most important religious landmarks. The temple houses a relic of Lord Buddha and is central to Sri Lankan Buddhist tradition. Afterwards, we take a stroll through Kandy’s lively city centre, where you’ll find a mix of modern shops, traditional markets, arts and crafts centres, and a gem museum and lapidary. The local market offers a colourful display of fresh produce and daily life.In the evening, you may choose to attend a cultural show featuring traditional music and dance, providing insight into the region’s vibrant heritage. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 4 - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, we travel to Nuwara Eliya, a town known for its cool climate and colonial heritage. Along the way, you may choose to visit a tea factory – Sri Lanka’s tea industry is world-renowned, and a factory tour offers insight into the production of Ceylon Tea, from leaf to cup. You can observe the traditional processes and enjoy a freshly brewed cup at the source.Later, you have the option to explore Nuwara Eliya on a city tour. The town retains much of its British colonial charm, with historic bungalows, hedgerows and a renowned 18-hole golf course. You might stroll through the town’s green spaces, admire the red-brick architecture, or take in views of the surrounding tea plantations and waterfalls. For a different perspective, you could hire a bicycle and ride along the shores of Lake Gregory. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 5 - Nuwara Eliya - Unawatuna
After breakfast, we travel to the south-west coast and check in at your hotel in Unawatuna. The remainder of the day is yours to spend at leisure – unwind on the beach or simply relax and enjoy the coastal surroundings. Overnight in Unawatuna.
Day 6 - Unawatuna
After breakfast, we visit Galle and its renowned fort. Galle, the historic capital of the south, is known for its well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture set against a tropical backdrop. We explore the original ramparts and bastions, which have stood for over three centuries, and walk clockwise within the fort to see the ‘old gate’ featuring the British coat of arms. Nearby, you’ll find the Zwart Bastion—the oldest in the fort—and the lighthouse beside the Point Utrecht Bastion. The fort’s streets, laid out in a rectangular grid, are lined with Dutch-style verandas and colonial buildings. You may wish to browse the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex for souvenirs or simply enjoy the lively atmosphere of this working community, where administrative offices, churches, and local residents bring the fort to life. We return to Unawatuna for the evening. Overnight in Unawatuna.
Day 7 - Unawatuna - Colombo
After breakfast, we will transfer you to Colombo Airport in time for your departure flight. Please ensure your travel documents are ready and allow sufficient time for check-in and security procedures. Safe travels as your journey in Sri Lanka comes to a close.
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Tour Reviews
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Extras and add-ons
If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Hotels
The hotels listed below are examples which we frequently use on this tour. Alternative hotels of a similar standard may be used instead.
Accommodation Standard
Prices
Prices & Dates
'Double/Twin' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to anyone wanting the privacy of their own room. 'Triple' prices (if available) are per person when there are 3 people on the same booking sharing a room.
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