Experience the best of Sri Lanka on this 8-day trip, mixing culture with coastal relaxation. You’ll get to climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, see old cities, and chill on Bentota’s beaches. It’s a solid blend of history and seaside peace.
When you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, your guide will meet you and take you to Negombo. This vibrant beach town is known for its fishing and nice beaches. Spend the evening relaxing by the sea or walking through the busy streets, where you’ll find seafood restaurants and markets. You’ll stay overnight in Negombo.
After breakfast, we’ll head toward Sri Lanka’s cultural center. First stop is the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with old murals and Buddha statues. Then, we’ll move on to Sigiriya and get you checked into your hotel. In the late afternoon, enjoy a village tour where you’ll ride in a bullock cart, glide across a serene lake on a catamaran, and share a traditional meal with locals. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Rise early to climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress before the heat of the day. Admire the breathtaking frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic views from the summit. This afternoon, see the old city of Polonnaruwa, once Sri Lanka’s capital. See the preserved ruins and stone carvings that show its history. You’ll come back to Sigiriya later that night.
Depart for Kandy, stopping en route at a spice garden in Matale to learn about Sri Lanka’s fragrant spices and their uses in traditional cooking and Ayurveda. Upon arrival in Kandy, take a city tour covering the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy Lake, and the bustling markets. In the evening, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, followed by a cultural dance performance. Overnight stay in Kandy.
Travel to Bentota, a serene beach town on the southwestern coast, known for its golden sands and tranquil lagoons. En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to watch elephants bathing in the river. In the afternoon, relax by the beach or enjoy optional water sports such as jet skiing, banana boating, or windsurfing. Overnight stay in Bentota.
Enjoy a relaxing day basking in the sun or pampering yourself with spa treatments. You can also opt for a boat tour on the Madu River, where you’ll see mangrove forests and small islands, or check out a turtle hatchery to learn about marine life protection. Stay overnight in Bentota.
After breakfast, we’ll head to Colombo for a city tour. You’ll see buildings from the colonial era mixed with modern skyscrapers. We’ll visit Independence Square, Galle Face Green, and Pettah Market where you can shop for local items. We’ll have a farewell dinner in the city and stay overnight in Colombo.
Following breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure flight, bringing with you cherished memories of Sri Lanka’s culture, history, and beaches.
