From Colombo: Sri Lanka Heritage 5-day Private Tour

Uncover Sri Lanka’s enchanting heritage on a 5-day private tour from Colombo. This captivating journey takes you through UNESCO-listed sites, national parks, and bustling cities, offering a well-rounded experience of the island’s rich culture and natural beauty. From the ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa to the verdant tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, each destination promises to unveil the country’s fascinating tapestry of history and tradition. Prepare to be immersed in Sri Lanka’s vibrant landscapes and learn about its timeless allure.

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Key Points

Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage with a 5-day private tour from Colombo, visiting UNESCO World Heritage sites like Dambulla Cave Temple and Polonnaruwa.
Experience diverse activities including a safari in Minneriya National Park, rainforest trekking, and white-water rafting on the Kelani River.
Accommodation in Sigiriya, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya with private transportation and entrance fees included in the tour priced from $499 per person.
Option to reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, and the tour available in English and German.
Guided by an expert in English and German, with highlights such as climbing Sigiriya Rock Fortress and visiting a tea factory.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 5-day private tour from Colombo explores Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and cultural highlights. Priced from $499 per person, it includes free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later.

The tour, available in English and German, takes visitors to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Golden Temple of Dambulla and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

This 5-day private tour takes visitors to UNESCO World Heritage sites like the Golden Temple of Dambulla and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Overnight stays are included in Sigiriya, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya, with private transportation and all entrance fees covered.

The tour isn’t suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or wheelchair users.

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Itinerary Highlights

The tour’s itinerary highlights include visiting several UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Travelers will explore the Golden Temple of Dambulla, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. They’ll also climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

The 5-day journey starts in Colombo, travels to Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, then continues to Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

Activities range from a safari in Minneriya National Park to a rainforest trek and white-water rafting.

Throughout, travelers will enjoy the expertise of an English and German-speaking guide and comfortable private transportation.

Day 1: Colombo to Anuradhapura to Sigiriya

The first day of the tour begins with a 5-hour drive from Colombo to Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka.

There, visitors explore the UNESCO World Heritage site, including the iconic Ruwanwelisaya stupa, the Samadhi Buddha statue, and the Isurumuniya rock temple.

After lunch, the tour continues to Sigiriya, the majestic 5th-century rock fortress.

Guests climb the 1,200 steps to the summit, taking in the stunning frescoes and panoramic views along the way.

They then check into their hotel in Sigiriya, preparing for the next day’s adventures.

Day 2: Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa, Safari in Minneriya National Park

After exploring the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the tour moves on to the historic city of Polonnaruwa.

Travelers will discover the well-preserved ruins of this ancient capital, including the impressive Royal Palace complex and Gal Vihara, a group of four massive Buddha statues carved from a single block of granite.

The well-preserved ruins of the ancient capital include the impressive Royal Palace complex and Gal Vihara’s four massive Buddha statues carved from granite.

Following the culture, the group heads to Minneriya National Park for a thrilling safari.

Spotting elephants in their natural habitat is a highlight, as the park is renowned for its large elephant gatherings during the dry season.

This action-packed day showcases Sri Lanka’s diverse heritage and wildlife.

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Day 3: Sigiriya to Kandy, Visit Dambulla Cave Temple and Spice Garden

Departing Sigiriya, the tour heads to the historic city of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Along the way, the group stops at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a remarkable rock-cut temple complex with impressive mural paintings and Buddha statues.

Next, they visit a spice garden to learn about the cultivation and uses of Sri Lanka’s famous spices, including cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves.

The tour then continues to Kandy, where they’ll explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka.

Dambulla Cave Temple: Explore ancient mural paintings and Buddha statues in this impressive rock-cut temple.
Spice Garden: Discover the cultivation and uses of Sri Lanka’s renowned spices.
Kandy: Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist site.

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Day 4: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, Including Ramboda Falls and Tea Factory Visit

Leaving Kandy, the tour heads to the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya, stopping along the way to visit the stunning Ramboda Falls and a renowned tea factory.

At Ramboda Falls, guests can admire the cascading waters and lush surroundings.

Then, the tour visits a tea factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous tea industry, from plucking to processing. Guests can sample different tea varieties and purchase specialty teas.

In Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England," the group explores the colonial architecture, verdant landscapes, and cool climate, a refreshing contrast to the tropical lowlands.

Day 5: Nuwara Eliya to Colombo, With Rainforest Trek and White-Water Rafting in Kitulgala

The tour departs Nuwara Eliya, heading back to Colombo.

Along the way, travelers will:

Trek through the lush Kitulgala rainforest, surrounded by diverse flora and fauna.
Enjoy an exhilarating white-water rafting experience on the Kelani River, navigating through class III and IV rapids.
Stop in Kitulgala, the filming location for the 1957 Oscar-winning film "The Bridge on the River Kwai", to explore the historical site.

After the adventure-filled day, the tour arrives back in Colombo, concluding the 5-day Sri Lanka Heritage experience.

Transportation and Accommodation

As part of the Sri Lanka Heritage 5-day Private Tour, travelers will be transported in a private, air-conditioned vehicle for the ground transportation.

Overnight stays are included in Sigiriya, Kandy, and Nuwara Eliya.

Return transportation from hotels in Negombo, Mount Lavinia, or Bandaranaike International Airport is also provided.

Seamless return transportation from Negombo, Mount Lavinia, or Bandaranaike International Airport is provided as part of the tour.

This comprehensive transportation and accommodation package ensures a seamless and comfortable journey, allowing participants to focus on seeing the cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka without having to worry about logistics.

Common Questions

Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Suit My Preferences?

Yes, the tour itinerary can be customized to suit your preferences. The tour provider allows flexibility to modify the included activities and destinations based on your interests and requirements.

What Happens if I Need to Change My Travel Dates?

The tour operator offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing you to change your travel dates without penalty. You can simply rebook the tour for your preferred dates, subject to availability.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Activities?

There are no age restrictions for the activities on this tour. However, the tour may not be suitable for pregnant women, individuals with back problems, or wheelchair users due to the physical nature of some excursions.

Do I Need a Visa to Participate in This Tour?

Yes, travelers will need a visa to participate in this tour. Sri Lanka requires most foreign nationals to obtain a tourist visa prior to arrival. Visitors should check the visa requirements for their nationality before booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Join a Group Tour Instead of a Private One?

Yes, there’s an option to join a group tour instead of a private one. The tour offers both private and group tour options, with the group tour likely being more cost-effective for solo travelers or smaller parties.

The Sum Up

This 5-day private tour from Colombo offers a comprehensive exploration of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Highlights include UNESCO World Heritage sites, wildlife safaris, and thrilling activities like white-water rafting. With private transportation, guided exploration, and comfortable accommodations, travelers can enjoy the country’s vibrant history and natural beauty. Priced from $499 per person, this tour provides an excellent value for those seeking a well-rounded Sri Lankan experience.