Heritage Hills to Tropical Shores
Journey from ancient kingdoms through misty mountain peaks to pristine tropical beaches on this perfectly balanced Sri Lankan adventure. Experience elephant encounters, climb legendary rock fortresses, explore sacred temples, traverse scenic hill country, enjoy thrilling safaris, and unwind on some of the island’s most beautiful southern coastline.
Tour Highlights
10 Days / 9 Nights
- Meet gentle giants at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage with feeding and bathing experiences
- Explore ancient Buddhist cave temples at Dambulla with stunning murals and statues
- Climb the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient wonder of the world
- Experience the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka in historic Kandy with the Temple of the Tooth
- Journey through scenic mountain landscapes to charming Haputale with panoramic views
- Safari adventure in Yala National Park, famous for leopards and diverse wildlife
- Two nights of beach bliss in tropical Tangalle with golden shores and palm trees
- Discover Dutch colonial heritage at historic Galle Fort
Day 1
Elephant Encounters & Cave Temples
Airport → Pinnawala → Dambulla (4 hours total)
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and journey to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to over 80 rescued elephants. Watch the heartwarming feeding sessions and river bathing activities of these gentle giants in a natural setting. Continue to Dambulla and visit the magnificent Cave Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five caves filled with over 150 Buddha statues and extensive murals spanning 2,000 years of Buddhist art.
- Overnight: Dambulla area
Day 2
Rock Fortress Adventure
Dambulla → Sigiriya (30 minutes drive)
Early morning climb of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rising 200 meters above the surrounding plains. Marvel at the famous Sigiriya Maidens frescoes, walk through the Mirror Wall with ancient graffiti, and explore the spectacular Water Gardens before reaching the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. This ancient citadel is considered one of the world’s most remarkable archaeological sites.
- Overnight: Sigiriya area
Day 3
Cultural Heart Journey
Sigiriya → Kandy (2.5 hours drive)
Travel to Kandy, the last royal capital and spiritual heart of Sri Lanka nestled in the central mountains. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, housing Buddhism’s most precious relic, and explore the beautiful temple complex during evening prayers. Stroll around scenic Kandy Lake and experience the charm of this UNESCO World Heritage hill city with its rich cultural traditions.
- Overnight: Kandy
Day 4
Hill Country Scenic Journey
Kandy → Haputale (3.5 hours drive)
Scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s spectacular hill country to Haputale, a charming mountain town offering some of the island’s most breathtaking views. En route, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya with its stunning orchid collection, and stop at a working tea plantation to learn about world-famous Ceylon tea production. Arrive in Haputale and enjoy the cool mountain climate with panoramic vistas stretching to the southern coast.
- Overnight: Haputale
Day 5
Mountain Views & Safari Journey
Haputale → Yala (3 hours drive)
Morning visit to Lipton’s Seat viewpoint for spectacular sunrise views across the hill country, named after the famous tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton. Experience the dramatic landscape change as you journey from cool mountains to the warm southern plains, arriving at Yala National Park. Evening relaxation before tomorrow’s wildlife adventure in Sri Lanka’s most famous safari destination.
- Overnight: Yala area
Day 6
Yala Safari Adventure
Full day in Yala
Full day safari experience in Yala National Park, renowned for having one of the world’s highest leopard densities. Explore diverse ecosystems from dense jungle to coastal lagoons and rocky outcrops while spotting elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. The park’s varied landscapes provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities throughout the day, with morning and afternoon game drives offering different animal behaviors.
- Overnight: Yala area
Day 7
Tropical Beach Paradise
Yala → Tangalle (1.5 hours drive)
Short scenic drive to the beautiful coastal town of Tangalle, known for its pristine golden beaches, swaying palm trees, and laid-back atmosphere. Check into your beachside accommodation and enjoy your first taste of this tropical paradise. Relax on the stunning crescent-shaped beaches with their gentle waves and explore the charming fishing village atmosphere with fresh seafood and coconut palms.
- Overnight: Tangalle
Day 8
Tangalle Beach Bliss
Full day in Tangalle
Full day to enjoy the pristine beauty of Tangalle’s coastline at your own pace. The area offers some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches with golden sand and turquoise waters. Optional activities include turtle watching at nearby Rekawa Beach (seasonal), exploring hidden coves and bays, visiting the picturesque Mulkirigala Rock Temple, or simply relaxing with beachside massages and fresh tropical fruits while watching spectacular sunsets.
- Overnight: Tangalle
Day 9
Historic Galle Fort
Tangalle → Galle (1.5 hours drive)
Morning coastal drive to historic Galle, home to the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing 400 years of European colonial history. Walk along the fort’s ramparts with stunning ocean views, explore cobblestone streets lined with Dutch colonial buildings, boutique shops, and art galleries. Visit the Maritime Museum, lighthouse, and experience the unique blend of European architecture with South Asian traditions in this perfectly preserved colonial city.
- Overnight: Galle
Day 10
Colombo City & Departure
Galle → Colombo → Airport (3 hours total)
Final morning exploring Galle’s charming streets or relaxing at nearby beaches. Journey to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant commercial capital, for city highlights including the historic Fort district with colonial architecture, bustling Pettah markets, elegant Cinnamon Gardens, and modern landmarks. Visit Gangaramaya Temple and enjoy last-minute shopping before airport transfer for departure flight.
Optional Add-ons & Upgrades
Adventure Upgrades:
- Helicopter Tour: Aerial views of Sigiriya and Cultural Triangle
- White Water Rafting: Thrilling rapids experience near Kandy
- Horton Plains: World’s End trek from Haputale (early morning excursion)
Wildlife Extensions:
- Extended Yala Safari: Additional game drives for better wildlife spotting
- Turtle Watching: Night excursion at Rekawa Beach near Tangalle (seasonal)
- Bundala National Park: Bird watching safari near Tangalle
Cultural & Beach Upgrades:
- Traditional Cooking Class: Learn authentic Sri Lankan cuisine in Tangalle
- Ayurveda Spa: Traditional healing treatments and wellness sessions
- Mulkirigala Rock Temple: Ancient cave temple complex near Tangalle
Tour Notes
Pace
Well-balanced mix of culture, adventure, mountains, and beach relaxation
Best Seasons
December to April for optimal weather across all regions
Group Size
Perfect for couples, families, and small groups (2-8 people)
Fitness Level
Moderate (Sigiriya climb requires reasonable fitness)
Beach Focus
Extended tropical paradise experience in pristine Tangalle
