7-Day Sri Lanka Round Tour: Colombo, Ella, Kandy, Sigiriya

Sri Lanka’s 7-Day Round Tour offers travelers a chance to enjoy the country’s rich cultural and natural heritage. From the bustling city of Colombo to the iconic sites of Ella, Kandy, and Sigiriya, this comprehensive itinerary promises an unforgettable journey. With guided services, transportation, and flexible booking options, the tour caters to the needs of modern explorers seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience. What awaits those who embark on this adventure might just surprise them.

Contents show

Key Points

The 7-Day Sri Lanka Round Tour covers Colombo, Ella, Kandy, and Sigiriya, priced from $350 per person, including guide services, transportation, and airport transfers.
The tour includes city tours, scenic train rides, cultural experiences, and national park safaris, not suitable for individuals over 95 years old.
The first day involves arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to a hotel in Colombo for relaxation and acclimatization.
The second day features a Colombo city tour and an evening safari at Udawalawe or Yala National Park.
The third day explores Ella, including visits to Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, followed by a tea plantation tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The 7-Day Sri Lanka Round Tour offers a comprehensive experience, covering the highlights of Colombo, Ella, Kandy, and Sigiriya.

Priced from $350 per person, the tour includes professional guide services, comfortable transportation, and pickups/drop-offs at the airport. Guests can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The itinerary features city tours, scenic train rides, cultural experiences, and national park safaris. Participants should bring comfortable shoes and be aware of restrictions on smoking, alcohol, and other prohibited items.

The tour isn’t suitable for those over 95 years old.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dambulla

Itinerary Highlights

Arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport on Day 1, guests transfer to their hotel in Colombo.

The next day, they embark on a city tour of Colombo, visiting the National Museum, Lotus Tower, and Galle Face Green, before an evening safari at Udawalawe or Yala National Park.

On Day 3, guests explore Ella, seeing the Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak.

The scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya on Day 4 is followed by a tour of Nuwara Eliya.

Day 5 is spent in Kandy, touring the Botanical Garden and Temple of the Tooth.

The tour continues to Sigiriya on Day 6 for a village tour and climb of Sigiriya Rock.

Day 1: Arrival and Transfer to Colombo

Upon arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport, guests will be transferred to their hotel in Colombo.

The drive takes around an hour, providing a glimpse of the bustling capital city. Guests can relax at the hotel, freshen up, and prepare for the upcoming tour.

The drive to the hotel allows guests a glimpse of Colombo’s bustling cityscape before they settle in and prepare for the tour.

The first day is focused on arrival and getting settled, allowing travelers to recover from their journey and acclimatize to the local time and climate.

This sets the stage for the exciting adventures that await in the days to come as the tour explores the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

Day 2: Colombo City Tour and Safari

On the second day, guests embark on a comprehensive Colombo city tour. They visit the National Museum to explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

Next, they marvel at the Lotus Tower, a modern architectural wonder.

Afterwards, they stroll along the iconic Galle Face Green, taking in the seaside views.

In the evening, they depart for an exhilarating safari at either Udawalawe or Yala National Park, where they’ve the chance to spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.

The day concludes with an overnight stay in the charming town of Ella.

More Great Tours Nearby

Day 3: Ella City Exploration

After a scenic journey the previous day, guests embark on a tour of the charming town of Ella. They visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a remarkable feat of engineering, and then hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and valleys. Guests have the opportunity to explore the local tea plantations, learning about the process of tea production and sampling the region’s finest brews.

| Activity | Duration |

| — | — |

| Nine Arch Bridge | 1 hour |

| Little Adam’s Peak | 2-3 hours |

| Tea Plantation Tour | 1-2 hours |

Guests then return to their accommodation in Ella, eager to experience the next leg of their Sri Lankan adventure.

There's plenty more to explore in Dambulla

Day 4: Train Ride to Nuwara Eliya

Having explored the charming town of Ella the previous day, guests now embark on a scenic train journey from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. The train ride takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers breathtaking views of rolling hills, tea plantations, and misty mountains.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, guests will tour the colonial-era Post Office, Gregory Lake, and the Botanical Garden.

Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England," boasts a cool, temperate climate and a unique blend of British and Sri Lankan influences. This picturesque town provides the perfect setting to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of the central highlands.

Day 5: Kandy City Tour and Cultural Show

From Nuwara Eliya, the tour continues on to the historic city of Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings.

The [CURRENT SUBTOPIC] features a visit to the Kandy Botanical Garden and the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most sacred Buddhist shrines.

The day concludes with an evening cultural dance show, providing a glimpse into the rich heritage of Sri Lanka.

The itinerary includes:

Exploring the Kandy Botanical Garden, known for its diverse flora and tranquil atmosphere.
Visiting the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to witness the sacred Buddhist relic.
Attending an evening cultural dance performance showcasing the traditional dances of Sri Lanka.

Day 6: Sigiriya Rock and Safari

The tour now moves to the iconic Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive landmarks.

Guests will travel to the ancient rock fortress, stopping at a spice garden and Dambulla Cave Temple along the way.

In the afternoon, they’ll embark on a village tour and climb the 1,200 steps to the top of Sigiriya Rock, admiring the stunning frescoes and the remnants of the former palace.

The day concludes with an evening safari at Minneriya or Hurulu Eco Park, where they may spot elephants, leopards, and other wildlife.

Overnight is in Sigiriya or Habarana.

Common Questions

Can I Extend the Tour to Visit More Destinations?

Yes, the tour can be extended to visit more destinations in Sri Lanka. Travelers can discuss their preferences with the tour operator, who can customize the itinerary to include additional locations based on availability and interests.

Do You Provide Child-Friendly Activities During the Tour?

Yes, the tour provides child-friendly activities. It includes visits to wildlife sanctuaries, botanical gardens, and cultural sites that cater to families. The itinerary can be tailored to accommodate children’s interests and needs upon request.

How Flexible Is the Itinerary in Terms of Customization?

The itinerary is quite flexible, with optional stops based on guest preferences. The tour can be customized to accommodate special requests or interests. Guests can work with the tour provider to modify the itinerary as needed.

Is There an Option to Book Private Transportation for the Tour?

Yes, the tour offers private group options for transportation. Guests can book private vehicles and a dedicated guide to customize the itinerary according to their preferences.

What Is the Best Time of Year to Visit Sri Lanka?

The best time to visit Sri Lanka is during the dry season from December to April when the weather is mild and ideal for exploring the island’s diverse landscapes. Humidity and rainfall are lower during this peak tourist season.

The Sum Up

The 7-Day Sri Lanka Round Tour offers a comprehensive and immersive experience, covering the country’s cultural and natural highlights. With guided services, transportation, and airport transfers, travelers can explore iconic sites, enjoy scenic train rides, and embark on wildlife safaris. Flexible booking options and a focus on comfort make this tour an excellent choice for an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.