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12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka

12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka
12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka
12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka
12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka
Day 1

Day 1: Arrival – Colombo → Kurunegala → Anuradhapura

Day 1 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
The Lake Forest Hotel, Anuradhapura
The Lake Forest Hotel, Anuradhapura
samadhi-statue-anuradhapura
samadhi-statue-anuradhapura
Kurunegala lake
Kurunegala lake
Daily Activities
4 activities
1
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport
2
Drive through Kurunegala, a historic royal city
3
Continue to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient capital
4
Check-in and relax
Day 2

Day 2: Explore Ancient Anuradhapura

Day 2 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Monastery-in-Anuradhapura
Monastery-in-Anuradhapura
Ancient Anuradhapura
Ancient Anuradhapura
Anuradhapura Sthupa
Anuradhapura Sthupa
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Full-day exploration of the Anuradhapura Sacred City (UNESCO World Heritage Site)
2
Visit Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, Abhayagiri, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
3
Visit Mihintale, the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka
Day 3

Anuradhapura → Aukana → Sigiriya

Day 3 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Visit Sigiriya
Visit Sigiriya
avukana-buddha-status
avukana-buddha-status
Sigiriya Rock
Sigiriya Rock
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Visit the massive Aukana Buddha Statue carved from granite
2
Continue to Sigiriya, home to the iconic rock fortress
3
Evening at leisure in a peaceful village resort
Day 4

Day 4: Sigiriya & Surroundings

Day 4 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
village tour by bullock cart
village tour by bullock cart
Untitled design
Untitled design
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO site)
2
Visit the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, adorned with ancient murals and Buddha statues
3
Optional: Enjoy an Ayurvedic massage or a village tour by bullock cart
Day 5

Day 5: Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Minneriya Safari

Day 5 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa
Minneriya Lake
Minneriya Lake
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Morning visit to the Polonnaruwa ruins – medieval temples, palaces, and statues
2
Afternoon safari at Minneriya National Park to witness elephants in the wild (seasonal)
3
Return to Sigiriya for overnight stay
Day 6

Day 6: Sigiriya → Kandy

Day 6 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Kandy Colonical Buildings
Kandy Colonical Buildings
Kandy Lake
Kandy Lake
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Depart for Kandy, the cultural capital
2
En route visit a spice garden in Matale and learn about traditional herbal practices
3
Explore the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, a lush sanctuary near the city
Day 7

Day 7: Kandy City Highlights

Day 7 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Kandy City Highlights
Kandy City Highlights
Kandy City Highlights View Point
Kandy City Highlights View Point
Kandy City Highlights View Point
Kandy City Highlights View Point
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa)
2
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya
3
Enjoy a city tour and traditional Kandyan dance performance in the evening
Day 8

Day 8: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella (Train Ride)

Day 8 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
kandy-lake-in-sri-lanka
kandy-lake-in-sri-lanka
tea plantation Nuwara eliya
tea plantation Nuwara eliya
Nuwara-Eliya-to-Ella-travel-guide-Sri-Lanka
Nuwara-Eliya-to-Ella-travel-guide-Sri-Lanka
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Visit Ramboda Falls and a scenic tea plantation and factory
2
Take the scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world
3
Arrive in Ella and relax at your hotel
Day 9

Day 9: Ella Adventure

Day 9 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Ella Adventure Bikes
Ella Adventure Bikes
Ella Adventures
Ella Adventures
Ella Adventure
Ella Adventure
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Morning hike to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock
2
Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge
3
Explore local cafes and soak in Ella’s mountain charm
Day 10

Day 10: Ella → Yala National Park

Day 10 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
yala-safari-sri-lanka-economy-tours
yala-safari-sri-lanka-economy-tours
yala-safari-srilanka-economy-tours
yala-safari-srilanka-economy-tours
yala-national-park-located
yala-national-park-located
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Depart for Yala National Park, famous for leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife
2
Evening jeep safari through the park
3
Overnight stay near Yala or Tissamaharama
Day 11

Day 11: Yala → Ahangama → Galle

Day 11 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
Yala Leopards
Yala Leopards
Galle Light House
Galle Light House
Ahangama Beach
Ahangama Beach
Daily Activities
4 activities
1
Visit Dondra Head Lighthouse, Sri Lanka’s southernmost point
2
Explore Matara’s Paravi Duwa Temple on a small island
3
Reach Galle and explore the historic Galle Fort (UNESCO site)
4
Overnight stay in Ahangama or Galle
Day 12

Day 12: Galle → Colombo & Departure

Day 12 Activities
Gallery
3 photos
colombo-sri-lanka
colombo-sri-lanka
Galle Images
Galle Images
Departure
Departure
Daily Activities
3 activities
1
Drive back to Colombo
2
Visit Gangaramaya Temple, the colorful Red Mosque, and Galle Face Green (time permitting)
3
Transfer to the airport for departure

Interactive Tour Route

Explore your journey on the map
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Private Transport with driver/guide (air-conditioned vehicle)
Entrance Fees to Tea Factory, Gem Shop, Candle-Making Workshop and Temple of the Tooth
Traditional Sri Lankan Lunch at a local restaurant
Tea Tasting Session at the tea factory
Candle-Making Materials (participants can take home their creation)
English-speaking Tour Guide
Bottled Drinking Water
Photo Opportunities at all stops
Government Taxes & Service Charges
Airfare or Airport Transfers
Accommodation or Hotel Stays
Additional Snacks or Beverages (outside of the included lunch and water)
Personal Expenses (shopping, tips, etc.)
Tour Guide Tips (optional and at guest’s discretion)
Unscheduled Activities or Attractions not listed in the itinerary
Purchases at Gem Shops or Markets
Day 1: Day 1: Arrival – Colombo → Kurunegala → Anuradhapura
During the journey: Kurunegala stop
During the journey: Kurunegala stop

If you arrive in Kurunegala with some daylight and time to spare, you could take a moment to admire the massive seated Buddha statue atop Ethagala (Elephant Rock). This offers an impressive view and a nice break from the drive.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Evening: Arriving in Anuradhapura
Evening: Arriving in Anuradhapura

Walk around the hotel grounds or explore a nearby street. Some restaurants and local eateries will be open, giving you a chance to enjoy your first Sri Lankan dinner. The evening is about settling in and preparing for your exploration of the ancient...

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 2: Day 2: Explore Ancient Anuradhapura
Visit Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree
Visit Sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree

This ancient fig tree is the oldest living human-planted tree in the world with a known planting date. It was grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree in India, under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Ruwanwelisaya Stupa
Visit Ruwanwelisaya Stupa

A massive, whitewashed stupa built by King Dutugemunu over 2,000 years ago. It is one of the most venerated Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka and is often surrounded by peacefully meditating pilgrims

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Jetavanaramaya Stupa
Visit Jetavanaramaya Stupa

One of the tallest brick-built structures of the ancient world. This monumental stupa is a testament to the advanced engineering skills of the ancient Sinhalese and is a powerful sight to behold.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Abhayagiri Stupa
Visit Abhayagiri Stupa

Part of a large monastery complex that was once a rival to the main Mahavihara. This red-brick stupa is massive and provides insights into the different monastic traditions that once flourished in Anuradhapura.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Isurumuniya Temple
Visit Isurumuniya Temple

A beautiful rock temple famous for its intricate stone carvings, including the renowned "Isurumuniya Lovers" carving. A climb to the top of the rock offers a great view of the surroundings.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
Visit Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)

These ancient bathing pools are a marvel of hydraulic engineering. The two ponds are elegantly designed and showcase the architectural skill of the ancient Sinhalese civilization.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
See Samadhi Statue
See Samadhi Statue

One of the finest examples of ancient Sinhalese sculpture, this serene statue of the Buddha in a deep meditative posture (dhyana mudra) is a powerful and peaceful sight.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Mihintale Rock
Visit Mihintale Rock

Considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, this site is a spiritual experience. Visitors can climb a grand staircase of 1,840 steps, passing ancient ruins and caves on the way to the summit. The top offers breathtaking views and is a perfect spo...

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 3: Anuradhapura → Aukana → Sigiriya
Visit Aukana Buddha Statue
Visit Aukana Buddha Statue

Take in the statue's serenity and exquisite detail. If your schedule allows, the nearby Kala Wewa tank offers a peaceful spot for a short break or picnic.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Hike Pidurangala Rock
Hike Pidurangala Rock

Hike up for sunset to capture stunning photos of Sigiriya as the day ends. The final section involves a bit of scrambling over rocks, but the 360-degree views are well worth the effort.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Go on a village tour
Go on a village tour

Immerse yourself in the local culture and enjoy a freshly cooked Sri Lankan meal in a peaceful village setting.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Enjoy a wildlife safari
Enjoy a wildlife safari

Take an exciting jeep safari to see wildlife in their natural habitat, and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the park.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Learn to cook Sri Lankan cuisine
Learn to cook Sri Lankan cuisine

Enjoy a hands-on experience and then feast on the delicious meal you helped prepare.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Relax at your resort
Relax at your resort

Unwind by the pool, enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment, or simply relax and take in the beautiful scenery.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 4: Day 4: Sigiriya & Surroundings
Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Climb the 1,200 steps to the summit of this ancient rock fortress to see the remains of the king's palace and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views. On the way, see the famous Sigiriya frescoes and the giant lion's paws.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple
Visit the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple

Explore five ancient caves filled with over 150 stunning Buddha statues and vibrant murals. Climb to the temples for scenic views and admire the rich history and art of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Enjoy an Ayurvedic massage
Enjoy an Ayurvedic massage

After a day of climbing, unwind with a traditional Ayurvedic massage using herbal oils. This therapeutic treatment is a great way to relax your muscles and rejuvenate your senses.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Take a village tour
Take a village tour

Experience the authentic rural life in a nearby village. Activities can include a bullock cart ride, a catamaran boat trip, and a traditional cooking demonstration with a local family.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Hike Pidurangala Rock
Hike Pidurangala Rock

For a less crowded experience and a fantastic photo opportunity of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, take a hike to the top of Pidurangala Rock, especially for sunset.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Go on a wildlife safari
Go on a wildlife safari

Head to a nearby national park, such as Minneriya or Kaudulla, for a jeep safari to see wild elephants and other animals in their natural habitat.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Participate in a cooking class
Participate in a cooking class

Learn how to cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes in a hands-on cooking class with a local family, giving you a taste of the authentic local cuisine.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 5: Day 5: Sigiriya → Polonnaruwa → Minneriya Safari
Visit the Polonnaruwa Ruins
Visit the Polonnaruwa Ruins

Highlights include the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, the Sacred Quadrangle with its impressive Vatadage and ancient temples, and the Gal Vihara , which features four massive Buddha statues carved from a single granite slab.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Enjoy a Minneriya National Park Safari
Enjoy a Minneriya National Park Safari

Board a private safari jeep with a tracker who knows the best spots to find wildlife. In addition to elephants, you may also spot other animals like deer, crocodiles, and various bird species.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 6: Day 6: Sigiriya → Kandy
Visit a spice garden in Matale
Visit a spice garden in Matale

Located between Sigiriya and Kandy, Matale is famous for its spice gardens. You can tour one of these gardens to learn about traditional Sri Lankan herbal practices and see a variety of spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and vanilla, in their natu...

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Explore Udawattakele Forest Reserve
Explore Udawattakele Forest Reserve

This is a historic forest reserve situated on a hill ridge right in the heart of Kandy. It was once a royal hunting ground and is now a serene sanctuary for nature lovers and birdwatchers.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Relax and check-in to your hotel in Kandy
Relax and check-in to your hotel in Kandy

After the day's activities, check into your accommodation in Kandy. The city is set on a plateau surrounded by mountains and a large lake, providing a scenic setting for relaxation.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 7: Day 7: Kandy City Highlights
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa)
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa)

This sacred Buddhist temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is believed to house a relic of the Buddha's tooth. You can witness the daily rituals (Thewava) performed by monks and see the beautifully ornate chamber where the relic is kept. The eve...

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya
Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya

Located a short distance from the city, these are some of the most stunning botanical gardens in Asia. They feature over 4,000 species of plants, including a magnificent collection of orchids, spices, and medicinal plants. You can also see the impres...

Added: Oct 10, 2025
City tour and Kandyan dance performance
City tour and Kandyan dance performance

Spend some time exploring the city of Kandy, which is set against a backdrop of green hills and centered around a beautiful lake. In the evening, witness a traditional Kandyan dance performance.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 8: Day 8: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella (Train Ride)
Ramboda Falls and tea factory
Ramboda Falls and tea factory

Admire the multi-tiered waterfall, take a tour to learn about Ceylon tea, and enjoy a complimentary tea tasting with stunning views of the surrounding tea estates.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Take the scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella
Take the scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella

Secure a seat near an open door or window for the best photos and to fully immerse yourself in the fresh mountain air and breathtaking views. Don't worry about missing anything—the train moves slowly, perfect for sightseeing.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Explore Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya
Explore Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya

Before or after your tea factory visit, you can make a quick stop at Gregory Lake in Nuwara Eliya. This man-made lake is a beautiful spot for a short walk and to soak in the "Little England" atmosphere of the town.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit the Hakgala Botanical Garden
Visit the Hakgala Botanical Garden

Spend an hour walking through the different sections of the garden, which sits at a high elevation and offers a peaceful environment.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Walk around Ella upon arrival
Walk around Ella upon arrival

After arriving and checking into your hotel in Ella, take a short stroll to stretch your legs and get your first taste of the town's relaxed vibe.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Witness the sunset from Little Adam's Peak
Witness the sunset from Little Adam's Peak

If you arrive in Ella with enough daylight, you can do the relatively easy hike to Little Adam's Peak for a stunning sunset. The path is well-marked and takes only 1 to 2 hours roundtrip.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 9: Day 9: Ella Adventure
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock

Start your hike in the morning to avoid the heat. At the peak, you'll be rewarded with stunning 360-degree views of the valleys, mountains, and tea estates below.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge

Walk along the tracks to get different vantage points for photos. Check the train schedule beforehand to time your visit and witness a train passing over the impressive arches.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Ravana Ella Falls
Visit Ravana Ella Falls

Admire the waterfall, take some photos, and if it's not too risky, you can dip your feet in the rock pools.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Take a cooking class
Take a cooking class

Enjoy a local culinary experience and learn the secrets of Sri Lankan spices and cooking techniques.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 10: Day 10: Ella → Yala National Park
Enjoy the sunrise from Little Adam's Peak
Enjoy the sunrise from Little Adam's Peak

Start your day early with a short, easy hike to the summit of Little Adam's Peak to watch the sunrise. The 360-degree panoramic view of the mountains and tea plantations is a stunning way to say goodbye to Ella.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge

Make one more visit to this iconic bridge to try and catch a train passing through. The bridge and the lush surroundings are a fantastic photo opportunity.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Afternoon Jeep Safari in Yala National Park
Afternoon Jeep Safari in Yala National Park

Go on a thrilling jeep safari through Yala National Park. An open-topped jeep and an experienced guide will maximize your chances of spotting the park's famous wildlife, including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and crocodiles.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Visit Sithulpawwa Rock Temple
Visit Sithulpawwa Rock Temple

Located within Yala National Park, this ancient Buddhist monastery dates back over 2,300 years. If your safari route allows, you can visit this sacred site.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Explore Tissamaharama town
Explore Tissamaharama town

Visit the ancient Tissamaharama Raja Maha Vihara or the tranquil Tissa Wewa (lake) to see fishermen, storks, and other birds, particularly in the morning or evening light.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Stroll on Kirinda Beach
Stroll on Kirinda Beach

A short drive from Tissamaharama, Kirinda Beach offers a quieter coastal experience than the more popular beaches in the south.

Added: Oct 10, 2025
Day 11: Day 11: Yala → Ahangama → Galle
Visit Dondra Head Lighthouse
Visit Dondra Head Lighthouse

Visit the southernmost point of Sri Lanka to see the country's tallest lighthouse. Though visitors are not currently allowed inside the structure, you can enjoy the peaceful and scenic setting with stunning coastal views.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Matara’s Paravi Duwa Temple
Matara’s Paravi Duwa Temple

Explore this peaceful Buddhist temple situated on a small island in Matara. The temple is accessed via a short causeway and is known for its beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere, offering a quiet escape.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Explore the historic Galle Fort
Explore the historic Galle Fort

Wander through the cobbled streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, which features a blend of colonial architecture and modern life. The fort's walls offer stunning views of the Indian Ocean, and you can explore historic landmarks, boutique shops,...

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Go surfing or take lessons in Ahangama or Weligama
Go surfing or take lessons in Ahangama or Weligama

The southern coast is a surfing hotspot, and Ahangama and the nearby town of Weligama offer excellent surf breaks for all levels, from beginners to advanced surfers.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Watch the stilt fishermen
Watch the stilt fishermen

Near Ahangama, you can witness the famous stilt fishermen, an iconic image of Sri Lanka's coastal traditions. They perch on wooden poles in the shallow water to catch fish.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Relax at Weligama Beach
Relax at Weligama Beach

After a day of travel and sightseeing, relax on the golden sands of Weligama Beach, which offers a more laid-back atmosphere than other areas.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Day 12: Day 12: Galle → Colombo & Departure
Drive from Galle to Colombo
Drive from Galle to Colombo

Begin your final day with a scenic drive from Galle back to Colombo. You will travel along the Southern Expressway for a fast and comfortable journey. The approximate travel time is 1.5 to 2 hours, allowing for a good amount of time to spend in the c...

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Visit Gangaramaya Temple
Visit Gangaramaya Temple

Walk around the main temple to admire its unique design, explore the museum, and visit the peaceful Seema Malaka meditation area on the lake.

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Stroll along Galle Face Green
Stroll along Galle Face Green

If time allows, take a short stroll along the ocean and enjoy the sea breeze. Sample some of the delicious street food from the numerous vendors who set up stalls here in the evening, including isso vade (prawn fritters).

Added: Oct 11, 2025
Departure from Bandaranaike International Airport
Departure from Bandaranaike International Airport

Ensure you arrive at least 4 hours before your international flight, as advised by airport authorities, to allow for thorough security checks and check-in. If you have extra time at the airport, you can relax in a departure lounge or do some last-min...

Added: Oct 11, 2025

12-Day Grand Heritage & Nature Tour in Sri Lanka

12-Day Sri Lanka Tour Package / 12-Day Cultural & Heritage Tourism
Description
Experience the best of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage and natural beauty on this unforgettable 12-day journey. Explore ancient kingdoms, sacred temples, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites such as Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy, while also immersing yourself in the island’s lush landscapes — from the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya to the wildlife-rich jungles of Yala and the serene beaches of the south. This tour perfectly blends history, culture, nature, and local experiences, offering a deep and diverse discovery of Sri Lanka’s timeless charm.

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