Discover the best of Sri Lanka on a private journey combining ancient cultural landmarks, sacred temples, lush tea plantations, spectacular mountain scenery, wildlife safaris and beautiful tropical beaches. Enjoy the flexibility of a private chauffeur-driven service, with opportunities to experience local culture, authentic cuisine and Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
Tour style: Private sightseeing and transport
Accommodation: 7 nights, arranged by the traveller
Starting point: Colombo hotel
Final destination: Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayake
Day 1 — Colombo to Sigiriya
Overnight: Sigiriya
- Pick-up from your Colombo hotel.
- Travel towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.
- Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, famous for its ancient palace ruins, frescoes, water gardens and impressive rock summit.
- Optional sunset hike to Pidurangala Rock for panoramic views of Sigiriya and the surrounding jungle.
- Check in to your hotel and relax.
Day 2 — Sigiriya to Dambulla and Kandy
Overnight: Kandy
- Visit Dambulla Cave Temple, renowned for its Buddhist statues and ancient cave paintings.
- Optional stop at a spice garden to discover Sri Lankan spices and traditional uses.
- Continue to Kandy and visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
- Enjoy a walk around Kandy Lake and explore the city centre.
- Optional evening Kandyan cultural dance performance.
Day 3 — Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and Ella
Overnight: Ella
- Depart Kandy and travel through the scenic central highlands.
- Stop at Ramboda Falls if time permits.
- Visit a tea plantation and tea factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea.
- Explore Nuwara Eliya’s colonial-era town centre and enjoy the surroundings of Gregory Lake.
- Travel from Nanu Oya to Ella by scenic train, subject to ticket availability and the railway timetable.
- Arrive in Ella and check in to your hotel.
This is a long sightseeing day. The train schedule and onward transfer arrangements should be confirmed in advance.
Day 4 — Ella to Yala and the South Coast
Overnight: Mirissa or another South Coast destination
- Visit Nine Arch Bridge or hike to Little Adam’s Peak, depending on the departure time.
- Stop at Ravana Falls if practical.
- Optional visit to Buduruwagala Temple if the route and available time allow.
- Continue towards Yala National Park for a pre-booked safari, subject to park access, safari timing and your chosen departure.
- Continue to Mirissa or your selected South Coast hotel.
A full or half-day safari needs careful scheduling. Visiting every optional attraction may not be practical on the same day.
Day 5 — Relax and Enjoy the South Coast
Overnight: South Coast
- Spend time at Mirissa Beach, Hiriketiya Beach or Unawatuna Beach.
- Optional whale-watching excursion when available and in season.
- Enjoy snorkelling, surfing or a traditional Sri Lankan cooking class.
- Visit historic Galle Fort or enjoy a sunset by the sea.
If the vehicle and chauffeur remain available on a stationary day, the quoted transport policy applies a minimum of 100 km. Additional local excursions may affect the final mileage calculation.
Day 6 — South Coast to Colombo and Negombo
Overnight: Negombo
- Depart the South Coast and travel towards Colombo.
- Visit Galle Face Green, a popular oceanfront promenade.
- Explore the historic Colombo Fort district and Pettah Market, depending on traffic and available time.
- Continue to Negombo.
- Check in to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening.
Day 7 — Discover Negombo at Your Own Pace
Overnight: Negombo
- Visit Negombo Beach and enjoy the tropical coastline.
- Explore the traditional fishing harbour and see local fishing boats.
- Take an optional boat trip along the Dutch Canal, subject to availability.
- Explore local shops, taste fresh seafood or enjoy a final Sri Lankan meal.
- Return to your hotel and prepare for departure.
Day 8 — Negombo to Bandaranaike International Airport
Departure day
- Enjoy breakfast at your hotel, subject to your flight schedule.
- Private transfer from Negombo to Bandaranaike International Airport.
- Drop-off at the departure terminal for your onward flight.