Colombo/Negombo: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella 3-Day Trip With Train

Embark on an unforgettable 3-day journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. This tour takes you to the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and the charming town of Ella. Priced at $250 per person, the trip includes comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and scenic train rides, allowing you to savor local cuisine. With high customer ratings and flexible booking options, this experience promises an enriching adventure. But there’s more to uncover about this captivating itinerary.

Contents show

Key Points

This 3-day trip departs from Colombo/Negombo, visiting Sigiriya, Kandy, and Ella, with the option of a train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella.
The trip is priced at $250 per person, with a potential 5% discount, and includes hotel pickup/drop-off, air-conditioned transport, professional driver/guide, accommodation, and meals.
Key highlights include climbing Sigiriya rock, visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy, and seeing the Ramboda Waterfall and Little Adam’s Peak in Ella.
The trip has an overall rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews, with positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and well-planned itinerary.
The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments, and peak season charges may apply during holidays and events.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Trip Overview and Pricing

The trip, titled "Colombo/Negombo: Sigiriya, Kandy, Ella 3-Day Trip with Train," is priced at $250.00 per person, but travelers can save up to 5% by booking, bringing the cost down to $237.50 per person.

The 3-day trip includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a driver/guide, accommodation, a potential train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, bottled water, and 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners.

Travelers can reserve their spot without upfront payment and cancel for free up to 24 hours in advance. Additional charges may apply for pickups outside city limits.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dambulla

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, visitors explore the Sigiriya Museum to gain an overview of the cultural significance of the ancient rock fortress.

They then visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.

The highlight of the day is climbing the iconic Sigiriya rock, admiring its stunning vistas.

The night is spent at a hotel in Royal Kandyan or a similar hotel.

The second day begins at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, which houses the revered Buddha’s tooth relic.

Next, they tour the renowned Glenloch Tea Factory and witness the Ramboda Waterfall, Sri Lanka’s 11th highest.

Weather permitting, a train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella may be included.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by air-conditioned vehicle, a professional driver/guide, accommodation, a Nanu Oya to Ella train ride (weather-dependent), bottled water, and 2 breakfasts and 2 dinners.

However, it excludes food and drinks not specified, gratuities, entrance fees for sites, and jeep hire for the safari at Udawalawe National Park.

Certain items are prohibited, such as shorts, oversized luggage, sleeveless shirts, alcohol, drones, glass objects, and fireworks.

Plus, there may be peak season charges during high-demand periods like December 24th, December 31st, and Kandy Perahara.

Important Information and Restrictions

Though not suitable for pregnant women, individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, the visually impaired, or those prone to altitude sickness, the tour requires participants to bring their passport.

Travelers must cover their knees and shoulders when entering Buddhist temples, and remove their shoes. Prohibited items include shorts, oversized luggage, sleeveless shirts, alcohol, drones, glass objects, and fireworks.

Peak season charges may apply during holidays like December 24th, December 31st, and the Kandy Perahara festival.

With these guidelines in mind, the Colombo/Negombo 3-day trip promises an immersive cultural experience.

More Great Tours Nearby

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Customers have rated the Colombo/Negombo 3-day trip highly, with an overall score of 4.5 out of 5 stars based on 42 reviews.

Travelers praised the knowledgeable guides who provided excellent care throughout the trip. The scenic views and well-planned itinerary were noted as key strengths.

Some customers expressed confusion regarding private versus group tour arrangements. Overall, feedback indicates positive experiences with the accommodations, food, and quality of the tour.

Here are more experiences we've reviewed in Dambulla

Exploring Sigiriya: The Iconic Rock Fortress

One of the highlights of the Colombo/Negombo 3-day trip is the visit to the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress.

This ancient site, dating back to the 5th century, offers breathtaking views from the top of the 200-meter-high rock. Guests will explore the well-preserved ruins, including the palace remains and the famous frescoes.

The climb to the summit is challenging but rewarded with panoramic vistas of the surrounding countryside. Travelers should be prepared for the steep staircase and the heat, but the unique experience of Sigiriya makes it a must-see during this Sri Lankan adventure.

Discovering Kandy’s Cultural Treasures

As the trip continues, travelers will have the opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage of Kandy, the historic hill capital of Sri Lanka.

They’ll visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth, which houses what’s believed to be a relic of the Buddha. Guides will explain the temple’s significance and the unique rituals performed here.

Afterward, the group will tour the renowned Glenloch Tea Factory, where they’ll learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea production.

The scenic Ramboda Waterfall, the 11th highest in the country, provides a picturesque interlude before the day’s activities conclude.

Experiencing the Beauty of Ella

What awaits travelers as they venture to the charming town of Ella on the final day of their Sri Lankan journey?

Ella is a picturesque mountain town that offers a tranquil respite.

Highlights include:

Little Adam’s Peak: A scenic hike rewarding hikers with panoramic vistas of the verdant tea plantations and rolling hills.
Nine Arches Bridge: This iconic railway bridge, constructed entirely of stone, brick, and cement, is a popular photo spot.
Udawalawe National Park: Travelers have the option to visit this park, home to numerous elephants and diverse wildlife, before returning to Colombo/Negombo.

Common Questions

Can I Book the Tour With Only 2 People?

Yes, the tour can be booked with only two people. The tour operator offers a private tour option that accommodates small groups without requiring a minimum number of participants.

What Is the Dress Code for the Train Ride?

There is no specific dress code for the train ride. However, the tour’s dress code suggests covering knees and shoulders when entering Buddhist temples and removing shoes. Travelers should dress comfortably for the train journey.

Is It Possible to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can likely be extended, but this would incur additional costs. Travelers should check with the tour operator about the possibility and pricing for extending the tour beyond the standard 3-day itinerary.

Can I Request a Vegetarian/Halal Meal Option?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or halal meal option. The tour operator provides this accommodation upon request, so guests can enjoy the meals that best suit their dietary preferences during the trip.

How Do I Claim My Discount if I’m a Returning Customer?

To claim the returning customer discount, simply mention it when booking the trip. The operator will apply the discount automatically, reducing the per-person price by up to 5% off the base rate.

The Sum Up

This 3-day trip offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Travelers can marvel at the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress, experience the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, and bask in the scenic beauty of Ella. With comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and scenic train rides, this journey promises an enriching and memorable experience for just $250 per person.