Best of Sri Lanka

Best of Sri Lanka

3,238 Views
15 Days From

$2845

$2418

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour 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! ...more ...less

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.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Negombo

Location: Negombo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

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. ...more ...less

Day 2: Anuradhapura

Location: Anuradhapura

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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.

Day 3: Anuradhapura

Location: Anuradhapura

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 4: Polonnaruwa

Location: Polonnaruwa

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 5: Dambulla

Location: Dambulla

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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)
-Minneriya National Park (entrance)

Day 6: Sigiriya – Kandy

Location: Sigiriya – Kandy

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

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

Day 7: Kandy

Location: Kandy

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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
-Kandy - Botanical Gardens

Day 8: Bandarawela

Location: Bandarawela

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

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 dinner 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

Day 9: Haputale/ Bandarawela

Location: Haputale/ Bandarawela

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

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

Day 10: Udawalawe Jungle Camp

Location: Udawalawe Jungle Camp

Accommodation: Permanent tented camp (with basic facilities)

Accommodation Name: Permanent tented camp (with basic facilities)

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

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.

Day 11: Mirissa

Location: Mirissa

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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
-Udawalawe National Park - Jeep hire (minimum 6 pax) per jeep

Day 12: Mirissa

Location: Mirissa

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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, stopping for lunch and taking in the surroundings.

Optional Activities:
-Explore Galle by Bicycle
-Explore Galle by bicycle with market visit and local lunch

Day 13: Galle

Location: Galle

Accommodation: Guesthouse

Accommodation Name: Guesthouse

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 14: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Accommodation: Hotel

Accommodation Name: Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast

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

Day 15: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Your trip comes to an end today, with no activities planned. If you'd like to stay longer, just speak to your booking agent.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    Hotels (12 nights), Guesthouse (1 night), Permanent Tented Camp (with basic facilities) (1 night)

  • Meals
    12 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

  • Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple

  • Anuradhapura - Bike tour

  • Polonnaruwa - Bike Tour

  • Dambulla - Cave Temples

  • Kandy - Temple of the Tooth

  • Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

  • Kandy - Tea factory visit

  • Bandarawela - Cooking demonstration & local meal

  • Kandy to Bandarawela – Scenic train ride

  • Hill Country trek

show more

What's Not Included

  • Tipping and Gratuities

  • International Travel

Included Activities

  • Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
  • Anuradhapura - Bike tour
  • Polonnaruwa - Bike Tour
  • Dambulla - Cave Temples
  • Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
  • Sigiriya - Lion Rock
  • Kandy - Tea Factory Visit
  • Bandarawela - Cooking demonstration & local meal
  • Hill Country trek
  • Galle - Walking tour
  • Colombo - City tour by bus

Transport

  • MOTORCYCLES:
  • Your travel insurance policy is unlikely to cover you when riding a motorcycle. We do not include or offer motorcycle activities on any of our trips in Sri Lanka.
  • TAXIS:
  • Use the taxi services from within the arrivals terminal at the airport or taxi services arranged through your booking agent. If you have a local SIM card, ride-sharing services, such as Uber, are available in major cities.

Accommodation

  • OCCASIONAL ALTERNATIVE ACCOMMODATION
  • The style of accommodation indicated in the day-to-day itinerary is a guideline. On rare occasions, alternative arrangements may need to be made due to the lack of availability of rooms in our usual accommodation. A similar standard of accommodation will be used in these instances.
  • TWIN SHARE / MULTI SHARE BASIS
  • Accommodation on this trip is on a twin/multishare basis. Please note there may be times where facilities will be shared rather than ensuite and rare occasions when you share a room with passengers travelling on a different Intrepid trip than your own.
  • CHECK-IN TIME
  • Throughout the trip we request that our hotels prepare rooms in time for our arrival, especially if we're arriving prior to normal check-in time. However this isn't always possible which means we won't be able to check-in immediately on arrival at some hotels. Instead, we can store our luggage and explore our new destination.
  • PRE/POST TRIP ACCOMMODATION
  • If you've purchased pre-trip or post-trip accommodation (subject to availability), you may be required to change rooms from your trip accommodation for these extra nights.
  • AIR CONDITIONING
  • All hotels on this trip have fans, but not all will have air conditioning.

Important Information

  • 1. Some travellers have reported being approached by locals offering excursions before their Intrepid trip commences. This has been particularly prevalent in and around the hotels used by Intrepid. These guides are in no way connected to Intrepid and we cannot guarantee the safety or quality standards of their tours. We advise customers against joining any tour offered by the unauthorised guides.
  • 2. A single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip and is subject to availability. Please speak to your booking agent for further information.
  • 3. In the wet season, we occasionally need to alter the length and itinerary of the Hill Country hike due to weather conditions.
  • 4. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking for train tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.
  • 5. Train tickets are in very high demand. We always try our best to secure tickets, but on the rare occasion that we cannot book them, you will continue your journey by private vehicle.

Mode of Transport

  • MOTORCYCLES:
  • Your travel insurance policy is unlikely to cover you when riding a motorcycle. We do not include or offer motorcycle activities on any of our trips in Sri Lanka.
  • TAXIS:
  • Use the taxi services from within the arrivals terminal at the airport or taxi services arranged through your booking agent. If you have a local SIM card, ride-sharing services, such as Uber, are available in major cities.

Check out our Q&As

  • Is this trip right for you

    The summer months in Sri Lanka are very hot with short, sharp monsoons in the southwest of the country. Please consider your suitability to the time of year you wish to travel and be sure to use adequate sun protection and drink plenty of water.

    This trip includes hiking on Days 9 and 10, an awesome way to see the picturesque hill country and interact with the local Tamil people. The hike is over relatively flat ground and covers approximately 10-12 km each day. We recommend a basic level of fitness as some have found the experience physically demanding. Parts of the trails are on rough ground which can be muddy and slippery if it’s been raining. If you feel you are not able to complete these walks, we can arrange vehicle transport for you.

    The views from the top of Lion Rock in Sigiriya are spectacular, but getting there involves walking up uneven, narrow steps and navigating tight walkways. If you’re afraid of heights or have conditions that affect mobility, you may wish to skip this activity.

    The drive to Mirissa on Day 11 is downhill, windy and slow. Motion sickness has been an issue for some travellers in the past. If you believe you might be affected, speak with your GP before travelling about medication that can help.
    ...more ...less

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Intrepid Travel has been taking travellers around the world for over 30 years

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Since 2002, The Intrepid Foundation has supported over 130 organisations across the world. We’re creating positive impact through the joy of travel, community and connection.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Over 50% of traveller travel solo with Intrepid. You can choose to share a room with another solo travelle of the same sex for no additional charge, or choose to pay a single supplement if you’d like your own room. Please request this when booking, and we will secure you a single supplement wherever possible. Please note, if you are booking a last-minute trip, it may be harder for us to secure a single room

Reviews of this operator

Maroochy Dazza (Google Reviewer)  

Just leaving a review to...

24-Aug-2023

Just leaving a review to share how much I enjoyed my Central America trip. I thought the guide, Aura was so knowledgeable and organised and clearly a great ambassador for Intrepid. She gave us lots of information on each region, helped us organise anything we needed and dealt with queries from passengers very well and diplomatically. She made the trip run smoothly. She was also keen to explain the Intrepid vision and how the company values making a difference to locals and is a credit to your company. I did Guatemala and beyond and thoroughly enjoyed it - very fast paced, lots to see and do and a great overview of the region. I would definitely recommend 👍 ...more ...less

LivvyGrace 4 (Google Reviewer)  

I just completed my first...

15-Jul-2024

I just completed my first Intrepid tour which was 33 days travelling around Central America - I had the time of my life! It was great to have the benefit of a guide (Fluffy was amazing!) and be able to ask questions at any point, but I also liked the freedom that you were permitted throughout. The group tour made boarder crossings seamless and the whole process felt easy - there was never one hiccup. As a solo female traveller, I felt safe throughout, and I cannot recommend Central America enough - the people, the food, the sun and the activities were just amazing :) Can't wait to book my next adventure soon! ...more ...less

V Open (Google Reviewer)  

I have just come back...

26-Oct-2022

I have just come back home after doing Intrepid's 10-day Vietnam Express Northbound tour. What a SUPERB tour. We saw lots and did lots, it was jam-packed full of sights and activities. Our tour leader, Tam, was the best ever. Very knowledgeable, organised and lots of fun too. The other 10 people on the group were all lovely. The places we visited were very interesting. We even visited local homes and ate just like the local people do. I highly recommend Intrepid to anyone considering touring a new country. This was my 5th tour with them and they have consistently been fantastic. ...more ...less

Jack Edwards (Google Reviewer)  

I have travelled with Intrepid...

03-Jun-2024

I have travelled with Intrepid a number of times now and can't recommend them enough. The trips are always exciting, full of history and immersive in the culture and environment. The office staff are great too and always happy to help with any questions you might have. Everywhere I have gone with the company has been different but the guides and itinerary have always been excellent and full of knowledge and passion for their country. Add in the social responsibility angle the company has and it top quality ethical practice and you can't go wrong ...more ...less

Jo Clayton (Google Reviewer)  

I recently went on an...

15-Mar-2024

I recently went on an 11 day tour of India with Intrepid and was impressed with every aspect of the tour, the tour leader and the organisation behind the scenes. I always travel alone so it was a big deal to join a tour, I didn't want to feel less independent or ferried about. I loved being part of a group and the things we saw and did on the tour, I would never have known about or seen if I had been by myself. I loved it from start to finish. Yes the overnight trains were not easy to sleep on, but I managed. Meeting locals on board was a high light for me. English is widely spoken in India and its amazing who you strike up a chat with. I had two problems on the tour - one my own fault and one hotel related. The support from Intrepid was amazing. I cannot thank them enough for going the extra mile to support me. I recommend Intrepid 100% and have gone from thinking an organised tour is for people who don't know about Lonely Planet and can't do solo stuff, to realising its a faster, better, more fun way to get to know a country truly and deeply whilst on a bit of a budget. I will book again and again with Intrepid. I loved it that much! Big thanks to tour leader Daddy H. Devender for his help on day one, and Nick in the Oz office for his fab customer care skills. Also the person who staffed the emergency whatsapp in India - you saved my sanity helping me get there a day late! THANK YOU ALL X ...more ...less

Nicole  

North American Adventure

12-Oct-2021

This was my first international solo trip, but I never felt “alone” - there was always someone to go shopping, hike, or grab a quick bite with. The itinerary was a great balance between organized activities, while still allowing free time for exploring. Each location was unique and charming in its own way. Spending the night in the holy city of Moulay Idriss and wandering the winding streets of Chefchaouen were especially memorable. Thank you Mustapha and Intrepid for an incredible adventure! ...more ...less

Alice Norton (Google Reviewer)  

I have just completed a...

29-Feb-2024

I have just completed a 12 day food tour of Vietnam, and had an amazing time. Our tour leader was great, knowledgeable and kind, who helped throughout the trip with recommendations for places on our free days, and spas. All the food we tried was delicious. It is a very fast paced tour, and Bon tried to maximise our experiences for the best. ...more ...less

Lisa Hosking (Google Reviewer)  

Just got back from Southern...

06-Feb-2025

Just got back from Southern India and I have to say our guide was great! Greeted by Sebi’s lovely smile each morning. His knowledge was great and his interpersonal skills were amazing! Managed the group well and took great care of us all! Thank you!

Henry Guy Robinson   United Kingdom

Cambodia Discovery

22-Jan-2024

The overall experience was fantastic. V good tour leader. All places visited had something special to do or see. I would book a tour with this company again. Only one negative tour hub is not I repeat not available to contact direct by phone.

D' ARTICULATE (Google Reviewer)  

They offer some great deals...

11-Jan-2025

They offer some great deals and group travel itineraries without the flights but will include them if needed by the traveller ; leaving one to choose a more personal holiday stance or exploration & time schedule too. Neat!

1 Select your preferred date

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 05, 2025 - Mar 19, 2025
$2980 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 09, 2025 - Mar 23, 2025
$3010 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 24, 2025
$2845 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 12, 2025 - Mar 26, 2025
$2844 $2560 (USD)

Operator discount: -$284 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 16, 2025 - Mar 30, 2025
$3165 (USD)

Friday - Friday

Mar 21, 2025 - Apr 04, 2025
$3285 (USD)

Monday - Monday

Mar 24, 2025 - Apr 07, 2025
$2844 $2560 (USD)

Operator discount: -$284 (USD)

Wednesday - Wednesday

Mar 26, 2025 - Apr 09, 2025
$2845 $2418 (USD)

Operator discount: -$427 (USD)

Sunday - Sunday

Mar 30, 2025 - Apr 13, 2025
$2930 (USD)

Book with Confidence

  • Free Date Changes

    Intrepid Travel allows you to make 10 free date changes, as long as the change is made at least 56 days before the start of the tour.

  • Transfer as credit to Future Tours

    Intrepid Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform intrepid travel, 56 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    Intrepid Travel requires a minimum deposit of 400 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 56 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of intrepid travel charges.

    Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

Best of Sri Lanka

15 Days Starting in Negombo and ending in Colombo

Visiting: Negombo, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Sigiriya – Kandy, Kandy, Bandarawela, Haputale/ Bandarawela, Udawalawe Jungle Camp, Mirissa, Galle, Colombo ...more ...less

Tour operator:

Intrepid Travel

Tour code:

HPSH

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 12

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

15-99

Tour operated in:

English
From: $2845 $2418 (USD) Operator discount: -$427 -15%

NB: Prices correct on 13-Feb-2025 but subject to change.

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