From $2,619 Was $2,910
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(20 reviews)
Experience Overview
This 15-day trip immerses you in the must-sees, must-tastes and must-meets of beautiful Sri Lanka. You’ll summit UNESCO World Heritage-listed Lion Rock in Sigiriya, cycle through sprawling ancient city ruins in Anuradhapura and wander the massive granite Buddha carvings in Polonnaruwa. Have lunch with a Tamil tea worker in their home, relax with a cold beer and your feet in the sand in Mirissa and hike between plantations and villages in Haputale. This is the best of Sri Lanka!
Highlights
- Ride around the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura on a bike tour, cycling through the jungle to see the dagobas, palaces and pools of a city abandoned over 1000 years ago.
- Climb the rock fortress of UNESCO-listed Sigiriya to the ancient ruins that lie atop the 200-m-high summit and get panoramic views over the surrounding wilderness.
- Explore the divine city of Kandy, mingling with pilgrims at the Temple of the Tooth, touring a tea factory, and taking in the views of this lush lakefront town.
- Fall in love with Sri Lankan food and get to know locals during experiences like lunching with a Tamil tea worker and a home-cooking demonstration.
- Unwind on the sandy beaches of Mirissa, where the waters are clear and warm, and monkeys play in the swaying palms that line the shores.
Trip Details
Product Code: 2189
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Private vehicle,Public Bus,Train,Bicycle
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: HPSH
Starts: Negombo, Sri Lanka
Finishes: Colombo, Sri Lanka
Duration: 15 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (12), Lunch (2), Dinner (3)Accommodation: Hotels (11 nights),Lodge (1 night),Guesthouse (1 night),Permanent Tented Camp (with basic facilities) (1 nt)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $2,619 ($175 /day)
Itinerary
Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, close to the international airport, with a welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. If you arrive early, you can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Visit the Negombo Fish Markets this morning to see the hustle and bustle of daily trade, then hop in your private vehicle to ancient Anuradhapura – the centre of Theravada Buddhism for many centuries and a major Buddhist pilgrimage site, with ruins of ancient Buddhist temples, including Anuradhapura Maha Viharaya and the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which is the oldest living planted tree in the world! Along the way, stop in the small town of Chilaw and maybe grab some local lunch. When you arrive, settle in and enjoy a free afternoon and evening. Those keen on history and archaeology might like to visit Mihintale – the sacred birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a guided bicycle tour of the city today. Among the ruins, you'll see the sacred old Bo Tree – a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and the inspiration for Anuradhapura's great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite an area, some in the woodlands and others with columns and ponds. After your cycle tour, you have a free afternoon. Maybe grab some delicious local cuisine – your leader will know the best spots.
Included Activities:
- Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
- Anuradhapura - Bike tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Travel on to 100-year-old Polonnaruwa by public bus and private vehicle today. A UNESCO World Heritage site, this was the capital of the Indian Chola Dynasty after Anuradhapura was conquered in the late 10th century. These ruins are close together and generally in much better repair than those you’ve seen so far. When the heat of the day has eased, you'll visit more palaces, temples and stupas, including the massive stone Buddhas. You'll also visit the museum, which has scale models of many of the buildings, to show how they would have existed in their time.
Included Activities:
- Polonnaruwa - Bike Tour
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Depart Polonnaruwa this morning and travel to Dambulla. When you arrive, you’ll head out to explore the amazing Dambulla Cave Temples, which sit on high on a stone cliff face with lots of steps. Some 150 Buddha images adorn the five caves, with fascinating frescoes and paintings on the walls and roofs. In the afternoon, you may like to relax by the hotel pool or take an optional wildlife 4WD safari to Minneriya, Kaudulla or Eco National Park where you might see some wild elephants!
Included Activities:
- Dambulla - Cave Temples
Optional Activities:
- Minneriya National Park - Jeep hire (minimum 6 pax) (45 USD)
- Minneriya National Park (entrance) (45 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, you’ll head to Sigiriya. This ruined fortress is one of Sri Lanka's premier sights and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with astounding views. Make sure you’re wearing sturdy footwear, as this is a very steep climb with some uneven slopes. Those unable to climb to the top can explore the gardens at the base of the rock and still get some fantastic shots of the fortress from below. Return to the hotel to freshen up before heading to Kandy. On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch and to learn about the medicinal properties of ingredients used in cooking and treatments. Carry on to Kandy, where you’ll visit the Dalada Maligawa (aka Temple of the Tooth) – Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist site. Time permitting, you'll also have the option of visiting the National Museum or the world-class Botanical Gardens.
Included Activities:
- Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
- Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll visit a nearby tea factory for a guided tour to learn about the production of Sri Lanka's best-known beverage. Of course, you’ll also sample some of the delicious varieties of locally produced tea while you're here. Later, head back to your hotel in Kandy, located far from the noise of the city. This spot is a great place to unwind, with lovely views over the town.
Included Activities:
- Kandy - Tea factory visit
Optional Activities:
- Kandy - Cultural Dance Performance (7 USD)
- Kandy - Botanical Gardens (10 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Start your day with a scenic train journey to Bandarawela, passing through tea plantations and winding along mountains into the highlands. When you arrive, you’ll visit a local home for a cooking demonstration to learn some secrets of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. After, sit down to enjoy the delicious meal for lunch with your hosts and get to know each other. Tonight, you’re free to relax or explore at your own pace.
Included Activities:
- Bandarawela - Cooking demonstration & local meal
- Kandy to Bandarawela – Scenic train ride
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today, you’ll drive to Haputale – at 1431 m above sea level, this area has a rich biodiversity, dense with various flora and fauna. Surrounded by hills and covered with cloud forests and tea plantations, it’s the perfect starting point for your hike today. This hike takes you through the plantations and small Tamil villages. For lunch, head to a local Tamil tea worker’s house and enjoy a home-cooked meal with your host. Carry on and soak up the gorgeous scenery! Tonight, you’ll head back to Bandarawela.
Included Activities:
- Hill Country trek
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Embrace an early start this morning and take the train to Idalgashinna. When you arrive, head out on a hike to explore the beautiful surroundings of Sri Lanka's Hill Country. Enjoy this chance to meet the tea pickers along the way and stop for lunch in Haldummulla. After, make the drive to tonight’s jungle camp accommodation at Udawalawe, stopping at Diyaluma Falls along the way. Your accommodation this evening is a lake-facing camp that backs onto a forest reserve where many herbs used in ayurvedic medicine are grown. When you arrive, you can choose to go on a short tour of the local village or relax at your camp.
Accommodation:
- Permanent tented camp (with basic facilities) (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you can take an optional excursion to Udawalawe National Park to look for elephants – just keep in mind this activity will require a wake-up call of around 4.30 am. Alternatively, you could sleep in, then maybe head to the ayurvedic medicine manufacturing centre. Later, set off to Mirissa by private bus – this is your paradise accommodation for two days of relaxation.
Optional Activities:
- Udawalawe National Park - Entrance fee - per person (45 USD)
- Udawalawe National Park - Jeep hire (minimum 6 pax) per jeep (45 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Today is all about laying beachside in Mirissa. The beach itself is a long curve of sand with clear waters perfect for swimming – it’s also a great spot to watch the sunset! Consider taking a bike ride or tuk-tuk to nearby Weligama, where colourful fishing boats bring fresh fish to sell along the shore or maybe explore the UNESCO World Heritage coastal city of Galle by bike. From September to April, there is an optional whale-watching excursion, too. Please ask your leader about this as you'll need to book at least one day in advance.
Optional Activities:
- Mirissa - Whale Watching (Nov to Mar) (70 USD)
- Explore Galle by Bicycle (25 USD)
- Explore Galle by bicycle with market visit and local lunch (35 USD)
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Head further down the coast to Galle – home to an impressive UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch fort with extensive walls and many old buildings. When you arrive, head to a local female artisan’s workshop for a demonstration on Beeralu lace weaving. Learn about this practise and how the local artisan hails from a family of traditional Beeralu lace makers. Beeralu is a form of pillow lace that’s hand woven in intricate patterns, often in delicate shades of white. Believed to have been introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th century, you’ll learn more about the history of this art. In the evening, take a stroll around the historic fort and watch the sunset from the ramparts.
Included Activities:
- Galle - Walking tour
- Galle - Beeralu lace weaving experience
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
Leaving Galle, you’ll travel on to Colombo – the nation's capital. Stop by some of the city's main sights on a bus tour including Independence Square, Parliament and the National Museum, finishing with a shopping opportunity for a good cause at the Barefoot Fairtrade Store. Here, you can find a collection of handicrafts from around the country and support small cottage industries. If you’re lucky enough to be in Colombo on a Saturday, you’ll visit Good Market – a local market full of stalls showcasing social enterprises and responsible businesses. Tonight, there's an optional group dinner to celebrate your journey together.
Included Activities:
- Colombo - City tour by bus
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Your trip comes to an end today, with no activities planned. If you'd like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Susan - Traveled, April 2024
This trip delivered everything it said it would! From fantastic transport and driver/wingman to Shihan, our wonderful knowledgeable tour guide. Scenic train rides, trekking, and cycle rides with breath taking views. A great travelling group and the very friendly Sri Lankan people made a visit to this country a most memorable experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/17/2024
deborah - Traveled, March 2024
I cannot recommend this trip highly enough. A full itinerary travelling round this beautiful country, with so many different activities and experiences. Highlights too many to list but included elephant safari, the climb up Sigriya, the beautiful beaches, the train ride from Kandy, the walk through tea plantations. And stunning scenery. A truly magical experience.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Louise - Traveled, March 2024
Fantastic trip with our brilliant guide, Ranjan! Expect to see the diversity Sri Lanka offers: temples, tea plantations, elephants and monkeys and the beautiful coast!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Paul - Traveled, March 2024
This trip truly showcased the beautiful Sri Lanka, including the history, infrastructure, commercial activities, and the picturesque mountains' and beaches. It was on my list for a while and this was was much more that just a tick. Thank you Intrepid, again.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/15/2024
Cassandra - Traveled, March 2024
A most enjoyable, informative, ethically run, well organised and expertly run Tour of the Best of Sri Lanka! An exceptional experience of a country rich in History and Natural Beauty well picked out and highlighted by Intrepids hand picked Itinerary list. A fabulous introduction to see the very best of Sri Lanka.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/16/2024
Rosemary - Traveled, March 2024
Highly recommend trip which provides a wonderful variety of activities to extend my love of and learning about Sri Lanka.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Max - Traveled, March 2024
What a fantastic trip, a fantastic range of activities and options. Sigiriya, the walks in the highlands tea plantations, the safari at the jungle camp, the train over 9 archesbridge in Ella and Mirissa- were highlights. Only downside was the high temperature and humidity. Highly recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Julie - Traveled, March 2024
A brilliant way to get a flavour of Sri Lanka
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
John - Traveled, March 2024
This Intrepid trip was a fantastic introduction to the country of Sri Lanka. The guide and staff were fantastic and helped to make the holiday one to remember for a very long time. Thank you Intrepid and we will be back for more very soon.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Elliott - Traveled, March 2024
The best tour ever! This tour fully incorporates everything and more of the highlights of this beautiful country ! The tour allows you to experience the local way of life, the main sights to see as well as experiencing the most beautiful parts of the country. Our tour guide Ranjan was absolutely amazing and we would highly recommend him, our drivers Sampath and Isuru and this tour!! Get booking !
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/14/2024
Jana - Traveled, March 2024
Gute Reise, dir einen guten Überblick über die Insel gibt. Tolles Essen und tolle Nationalparks. Man sieht Tiere, Nationalparks, Teeplantagen und Strände. Guide und Busfahrer waren sympathisch und hatten immer Tipps und Tricks
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/11/2024
Dave - Traveled, March 2024
Great trip very well managed and really opens your eyes to the beauty of Sri Lanka
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/13/2024
Melanie - Traveled, March 2024
A brilliant all round trip to Sri Lanka. Such a beautiful country with a bit of everything really well put together by Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/09/2024
Philippa - Traveled, March 2024
Our trip was informative, interesting and above all great fun. Transport was comfortable, accommodation well chosen and our group very congenial and friendly. We visited key historic and cultural locations and learned a great deal about Sri Lanka’s history.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/04/2024
Karen - Traveled, March 2024
After considering many different group trips for Sri Lanka I went with the Best of and it was excellent. There are a lot of included activities and it is a great mix. Lots of opportunities for sunrises and sunsets and occasionally other optional extras not mentioned in the itinerary, such as a morning nature walk, ayurveda massage etc. If you really want to do something not on the itinerary ask the guide, ours was very accommodating. One reason I chose the trip was the train and from the start the guide said it was unlikely we would have tickets and apparently this happens a lot recently. However it's still possible to take the train with unreserved seats and hope to get on and get a seat, which was what we did. It would be better if intrepid could get the tickets but I'd def still recommend the trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Helena - Traveled, March 2024
An incredible trip with brilliant variety covering the best bits of Sri Lanka from tourist spots to local experiences, with great food and company along the way.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
Malcolm - Traveled, March 2024
The Intrepid tour of Sri Lanka is a great way to see the country in a small group
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/06/2024
Lee-Ann - Traveled, March 2024
We had a fantastic journey through Sri Lanka. Thanks to our incredible guide, Asanga Bandara Rajapaske, we came away feeling as if we had truly experienced all that Sri Lanka has to offer.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Jill - Traveled, March 2024
This is my third trip with Intrepid. If you are lucky enough to have Asanga as your tour guide, you will be very fortunate. Asanga is passionate, knowledgeable, caring, funny and goes completely beyond his call of duty. Asanga it was an absolute privilege to be part of your group and I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Intrepid you are very lucky to have Asanga. Thank you Asanga for making my holiday such a memorable one. I will never forget you and thank you to Tharaka our driver and Co pilot, Priyantha.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 03/28/2024
Charlotte - Traveled, March 2024
I found this trip to be a perfect balance of knowledge base activities and physical base activities. We had the best to a leader we could’ve had for this trip, he was friendly and approachable and down entire group loved him. All of the food and the sites we en Were amazing and I would definitely recommend this trip.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 04/02/2024
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