From Colombo: 4-Day Hill Country Tour With Train Ride

The Hill Country of Sri Lanka beckons travelers with its lush landscapes, cultural wonders, and enchanting train journeys. This 4-day tour from Colombo promises an immersive experience, taking you through the region’s iconic sites like the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Hiking to scenic viewpoints and traversing charming towns like Ella only scratches the surface of this captivating adventure. Whether you’re seeking spiritual enlightenment or simply awe-inspiring vistas, this itinerary offers a chance to…

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Key Points

4-day tour from Colombo exploring the Hill Country, including visits to Kandy, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Ella, and a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya.
Priced from $590 per person, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and optional private group option.
Itinerary highlights include cultural visits, wildlife experiences, trekking, and sightseeing in destinations like Mini Adam’s Peak and Nine Arch Bridge.
Tour includes 3 nights’ accommodation, transportation, and entrance fees, but excludes lunch, drinks, and personal expenses.
Recommendations include wearing comfortable shoes, packing warm clothing and rain protection, and respecting local customs during the tour.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 4-day Hill Country tour from Colombo offers an opportunity to explore the scenic landscapes and cultural highlights of Sri Lanka’s central highlands.

Priced from $590 per person, the tour includes 3 nights’ accommodation, transportation, a guided train ride, and all entrance fees.

Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance.

With a private group option available, the tour provides a flexible and personalized experience.

Duration is 4 days, with a live English-speaking guide.

Booking is straightforward, allowing customers to reserve their spot without upfront payment.

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Itinerary Highlights

The 4-day Hill Country tour begins with a visit to Kandy, where travelers can explore the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Next, they’ll visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to witness these gentle giants up close. The tour then continues to a local herbal garden, where visitors can learn about the medicinal properties of Sri Lankan plants.

Visitors can get up close with gentle elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and learn about Sri Lankan medicinal plants at a local herbal garden.

On the second day, an early morning trek takes them to Sita Kotuwa and Ratna Ella, offering stunning views of the lush, rolling hills.

The third day is spent sightseeing in Ella, including stops at Mini Adams Peak, the Nine Arch Bridge, and the town center.

Day 1: Colombo → Kandy → Gurulupotha

After departing from Colombo, the tour begins with a visit to the historic city of Kandy, home to the renowned Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Visitors have the opportunity to witness the impressive architecture and learn about the significance of this important Buddhist site.

Next, the group explores the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where they can observe these majestic creatures up close.

The day concludes with a stop at a local herbal garden, providing insights into traditional Sri Lankan medicinal practices.

The day’s activities offer a fascinating introduction to the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Day 2: Gurulupotha

On the second day, travelers embark on an early morning trek to Sita Kotuwa and Ratna Ella, two captivating natural landmarks within the Gurulupotha region.

This invigorating hike offers:

Stunning vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls.
The opportunity to spot diverse wildlife, including birds, butterflies, and possibly even monkeys.
A chance to take in the serene natural environment and connect with the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

After the trek, travelers can look forward to a day of leisure and exploration in the Gurulupotha area.

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Day 3: Gurulupotha → Ella

Departing from the tranquil Gurulupotha region, the tour now ventures towards the charming town of Ella.

The day’s sightseeing begins with a visit to Mini Adam’s Peak, an iconic landmark offering panoramic vistas over the lush hills.

Ascending Mini Adam’s Peak, travelers are rewarded with sweeping vistas over the verdant hills.

Next, the group explores the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel blending seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.

After wandering through Ella’s vibrant town center, the tour continues its journey, with a scenic train ride to the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya.

Along the way, travelers can take in the breathtaking mountain scenery and observe the local way of life.

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Day 4: Ella → Nuwara Eliya → Colombo

As the sun rises over the lush hills, the tour departs Ella, heading towards the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya.

The scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya offers breathtaking views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and rolling mountains.

Upon arrival, the tour explores the quaint town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its colonial-era architecture and picturesque gardens.

The journey then continues to Colombo, with a stop at Kitulgala for an exciting water rafting experience.

The tour concludes in the bustling capital city, providing a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s stunning Hill Country.

Scenic train ride from Ella to Nuwara Eliya
Explore the charming town of Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy water rafting at Kitulgala before returning to Colombo

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour package includes 3 nights’ accommodation in standard hotels, 3 breakfasts, and 3 dinners.

The tour package includes 3 nights’ accommodation in standard hotels, 3 breakfasts, and 3 dinners.

Ground transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a local tour guide, and all entrance fees are covered.

Travelers will enjoy an all-inclusive hill country train trip as well as guided treks and tours.

However, lunch, drinks, personal expenses, and tips aren’t included.

The tour isn’t suitable for children under 8, pregnant women, people with back problems or mobility issues, or wheelchair users.

Participants should come prepared with comfortable shoes, warm clothing, and necessary personal items.

Important Information and Recommendations

To prepare for the Hill Country Tour, travelers should gather a few essential items.

First, wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour involves extensive exploration on foot.

Second, pack layers of warm clothing and rain protection, as the hill country weather can be unpredictable.

Third, bring a water bottle and sunscreen to stay hydrated and protected from the sun.

Plus, visitors should respect local customs by dressing modestly, especially when visiting temples.

Photography is allowed, but flash should be avoided inside religious sites.

Following these recommendations will ensure a comfortable and memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country.

Common Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for This Tour?

The tour’s minimum group size is not specified. However, it offers a private group option, allowing travelers to book the entire tour for their party. This provides flexibility for smaller or larger groups.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can be extended, though details are not provided. Interested travelers should inquire with the tour operator about customization options and any additional costs for extending the 4-day itinerary. The tour’s flexibility allows for personalized experiences.

Are Vegetarian/Special Dietary Meals Available?

Yes, vegetarian and special dietary meals are available upon request. The tour provider accommodates various dietary requirements to ensure all guests can fully enjoy the included meals during the 4-day hill country adventure.

Can I Request a Language-Specific Tour Guide?

Yes, the tour can accommodate language-specific guide requests. Customers can inquire about availability of guides fluent in their preferred language when booking the tour. The tour provider aims to meet individual needs and preferences.

Is There an Option to Add Additional Activities?

Yes, the tour offers optional add-on activities like water rafting, scenic flights, and cooking classes for an additional fee. Clients can inquire about customizing the itinerary to include their preferred experiences.

The Sum Up

This 4-day Hill Country tour from Colombo promises an unforgettable experience. Visitors will enjoy Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes, rich culture, and iconic attractions. From the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to the enchanting Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, this tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the island’s treasures. The highlight is the scenic train ride through picturesque tea plantations, creating lasting memories in the hill country.