Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage is a captivating blend of ancient sites and natural wonders. This 6-day private guided tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the country’s UNESCO World Heritage treasures. From the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress to the serene Dambulla Cave Temple, visitors will enjoy Sri Lanka’s rich past. The journey also includes a visit to the renowned Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and a tranquil stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Garden. With a balance of historic landmarks and scenic landscapes, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to uncover the essence of Sri Lanka.
Key Points
- Comprehensive 6-day private guided tour in Sri Lanka covering four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya rock fortress.
- Explore the country’s rich cultural and natural attractions, such as Dambulla Cave Temple, spice gardens, Kandy, and Peradeniya Botanical Garden.
- Guided transfers and transportation with an English-speaking guide to provide insights on Sri Lankan history and culture.
- Includes 5 nights’ accommodation and entrance fees, with a starting price of $780 per person.
- Opportunity to experience the significance of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites and immerse in the local traditions.
Tour Overview
This 6-day private guided tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore four UNESCO world heritage sites in Sri Lanka. Priced from $780 per person, the tour immerses travelers in the country’s rich heritage and natural beauty.
Highlights include discovering gardens, waterfalls, and cave temples, learning about Ceylon tea at a plantation, and visiting small hill country cities.
With 5 nights’ accommodation, English-speaking guides, and all transportation and entrance fees included, this comprehensive package provides an in-depth look at Sri Lanka’s top attractions and cultural traditions.
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Itinerary
The tour begins with an arrival in Colombo, where travelers are then transferred to the historic town of Sigiriya. On the second day, visitors explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress. The third day features a visit to the Dambulla cave temple, a spice garden, and the cultural capital of Kandy. Guests then journey to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at the Peradeniya Botanical Garden and a tea plantation. The final day includes a city tour of Nuwara Eliya, waterfalls, and a transfer back to Colombo for departure.
| Day | Destination | Activities |
| — | — | — |
| 1 | Colombo to Sigiriya | Arrival, transfer |
| 2 | Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya | Explore ancient sites |
| 3 | Dambulla, Kandy | Temples, spice garden |
| 4 | Nuwara Eliya | Botanical garden, tea plantation |
| 5 | Nuwara Eliya, Colombo | City tour, waterfalls, transfer |
| 6 | Colombo | Departure |
Arrival in Colombo, Transfer to Sigiriya
Upon arrival in Colombo, travelers are promptly transferred to the historic town of Sigiriya. The drive takes approximately 3.5 hours, winding through scenic countryside and small villages.
Along the way, the guide points out highlights, sharing insights about Sri Lankan history and culture.
Upon reaching Sigiriya, travelers check into their accommodation. The rest of the day is at leisure, allowing time to rest and prepare for the next day’s explorations of the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Exploring Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya Rock Fortress
After a restful evening, travelers set out early the next day to explore two of Sri Lanka’s most renowned UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress.
At Polonnaruwa, they’ll discover the well-preserved ruins and monuments of this former capital, including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara, and Vatadage.
Then, it’s on to Sigiriya, where they’ll climb the 5th-century fortress built atop a dramatic rock outcrop.
Reaching the summit rewards with panoramic views and insights into the ingenuity of Sri Lankan engineering centuries ago.
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Heading to Dambulla, travelers explore the remarkable Cave Temple, a stunning complex of five caves adorned with vibrant murals and over 150 Buddha statues.
Next, they visit a spice garden to learn about Ceylon’s renowned spices and their uses.
Travelers explore a spice garden, learning about Ceylon’s renowned spices and their uses.
After a tour of the gardens, the journey continues to Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.
Here, visitors admire the iconic Temple of the Tooth, a sacred site that houses a relic of Lord Buddha.
The day culminates with a cultural show, providing a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.
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Botanical Garden, Tea Plantation, and Nuwara Eliya
Travelers then make their way to the renowned Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a sprawling 147-acre oasis showcasing over 4,000 plant species. They explore the tranquil grounds, taking in the vibrant colors and diverse flora. Next, they visit a working tea plantation where they learn about the history and production of Ceylon tea.
| Attraction | Highlights |
| — | — |
| Peradeniya Botanical Garden | – Largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka
– Over 4,000 plant species
– Scenic walking trails |
| Tea Plantation | – Witness tea plucking and processing
– Learn about Ceylon tea cultivation
– Sample different tea varieties |
The tour then continues to the hill town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its temperate climate and colonial-era architecture.
City Tour of Nuwara Eliya, Waterfalls, and Transfer to Colombo
On the penultimate day, the tour participants explore the charming hill town of Nuwara Eliya.
They embark on a city tour, marveling at the colonial architecture and lush gardens.
Next, they visit Devon and St. Claires waterfalls, cascading through the verdant hills.
In the afternoon, they depart Nuwara Eliya, driving back to Colombo.
The tour concludes with a transfer to the Colombo airport, where participants can catch their flights home, having experienced the diverse cultural and natural wonders of Sri Lanka.
Departure From Colombo Airport
After exploring the charming hill town of Nuwara Eliya and witnessing the cascading waterfalls, the tour participants make their way back to Colombo for their departure. They are transferred to the Colombo Airport, where they can check-in for their flights home. Before leaving, they have time to reflect on the diverse cultural heritage they experienced throughout the 6-day tour.
| Departure Information | | |
| ——————— | ————— | ————— |
| Airport | Colombo (CMB) | |
| Check-in Time | 2-3 hours prior | to flight |
| Recommended Attire | Comfortable | casual clothes |
Common Questions
Can I Customize the Tour Itinerary to Fit My Interests?
Yes, the tour can be customized to fit your interests. The provider offers flexibility to adjust the itinerary based on your preferences and travel goals. Just discuss your needs with the tour operator when booking.
What Is the Group Size for This Private Tour?
This is a private tour, so the group size is flexible and tailored to the traveler’s preferences. The tour can accommodate solo travelers or small groups, providing a personalized experience to explore Sri Lanka’s heritage sites at your own pace.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?
The tour does not explicitly mention any discounts for children or seniors. Pricing is listed as a per person rate, so discounts may be available but would need to be confirmed with the tour operator.
Can I Get a Hotel Upgrade for an Additional Fee?
Yes, hotel upgrades may be available for an additional fee. Customers can inquire about upgrade options when booking the tour or contacting the tour provider. The availability and cost of upgrades can vary based on the tour package and travel dates.
Are Meals Included During the Tour, or Is It Only Accommodation?
The tour includes accommodation but not meals. Travelers are responsible for covering their own meals during the 6-day itinerary. Hotel upgrades may be available for an additional fee, but this is not specified in the tour details.
The Sum Up
This 6-day private guided tour offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors will discover four UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress and the revered Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. From Colombo to Nuwara Eliya, the tour encompasses ancient cities, lush botanical gardens, and tea plantations, providing a comprehensive and enriching journey through this captivating island nation.
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