SRI LANKAN HIGHLANDS (7 DAYS – 6 NIGHTS)

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Destination

Sri Lanka

Type of tour

Tailor Made

Duration

7 Days 6 Nights

Starting From AUD 1,190

  • USD: USD 775
  • GBP: £ 577
  • EUR: € 665
  • JPY: ¥ 114,584
  • INR: ₹ 66,510
  • LKR: ₨ 232,407

Per Person

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Tour Summary

This 7-Day Classic Highlands Tour is a masterfully curated journey designed for travelers who seek a perfect harmony of Sri Lanka’s spiritual heritage, misty mountain landscapes, and sun-drenched coastal luxury.

From the sacred temples of Kandy to the colonial elegance of Nuwara Eliya, this itinerary takes you deep into the heart of the island’s most iconic destinations. Adventure seekers will find their thrill in Ella, while those seeking tranquility can unwind along the serene riverbanks and golden beaches of Bentota.

Whether you are walking through 2,500 years of history at a UNESCO World Heritage site, sipping world-class tea at its source, or experiencing the vibrant energy of Ella, this tour offers a seamless, all-inclusive experience. With private transportation, expert guidance, and handpicked accommodations, we ensure that every moment of your journey is as comfortable as it is unforgettable.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

The Sacred Relic of Kandy: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, one of the few places on Earth where a physical relic of the Buddha is enshrined. This is the spiritual beating heart of the island, alive with the rhythmic pulse of traditional Kandyan drumming and incense.

Pinnawala Sanctuary: Experience a rare, close-up encounter with rescued elephants, a world-renowned conservation success story where you can watch the herd socialize and bathe in the river.

High-Altitude Tea Heritage: In Nuwara Eliya, explore the origins of the world-famous “Ceylon Tea.” Walk through emerald-green estates where the unique climate produces a tea flavor found nowhere else.

The Iconic Nine Arches Bridge: Walk across this colonial-era engineering marvel in Ella. Built entirely without a single piece of steel—using only stone, brick, and cement—it is one of the most photographed railway sites in the world.

Adventure in Ella: From the adrenaline of the Flying Ravana Mega Zipline to hiking Little Adam’s Peak, Ella offers mountain thrills that transition into the tranquil mangrove safaris of Bentota.

Endangered Sea Turtle Conservation: Visit the Kosgoda hatcheries to see five of the world’s seven sea turtle species that return to Sri Lanka’s shores to nest—a rare biodiversity highlight.

Why Choose This Tour?

  • Private & Personalized:Travel in a premium, air-conditioned vehicle with a dedicated Licensed Tourist Guide, ensuring a flexible pace that group tours cannot match.
  • End-to-End Excellence:We bridge the gap between the ancient culture, the misty central mountains, and the golden southern coast in one perfectly timed 7-day loop.

What’s included

  • Accomodation for 6 nights
  • Daily breakfast, lunch, and dinner (All meals included)
  • Private transportation in premium air-conditioned vehicles
  • Services of a well-experienced, English-speaking Licensed Tourist Guide
  • Personalized airport meet-and-greet services upon your arrival
  • Curated, guided sightseeing in Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Kandy, and Colombo
  • Full coverage of the chauffeur/guide’s professional fees, meals, and lodging
  • Seamless private transfer to the airport for your departure

Tour Exclusions

  • International flights to and from Sri Lanka
  • Mandatory Visa fees (Electronic Travel Authorization)
  • Comprehensive travel and medical insurance (Highly recommended)
  • Admission fees for sites and attractions
  • Rental costs for wildlife safaris or specialized excursion vehicles
  • Any optional activities or tours not specifically listed in the itinerary
  • All beverages (Alcoholic and non-alcoholic) during scheduled meals
  • Incidental personal expenses such as laundry, phone calls, and mini-bar items
  • Customary tips and gratuities for your guide, driver, and hotel staff
  • Surcharges for early hotel check-in or late check-out requests (Subject to availability)
  • Additional costs resulting from travel delays, weather, or emergency situations

Travel essence

Culture

beach

Nature

Day 01 - NEGOMBO - Arrival & Coastal Charm (From Airport to Negombo – 9 kms)

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly greeted by your private chauffeur-guide and transferred to the coastal town of Negombo. This first day is dedicated to your relaxation and recovery from your flight, allowing you to settle into the island’s gentle rhythm.

Day 01 Activities

Depending on your arrival time and energy levels, you may choose to explore the following highlights:

  Negombo Beach & Golden Hour: Take a leisurely stroll along the wide, golden shoreline. As evening approaches, watch the horizon transform during a famous Sri Lankan sunset while local outrigger canoes (Oruwas) dot the ocean.

  The “Lellama” Fish Market: Visit one of the island’s most vibrant open-air markets. Observe the traditional lifestyle of the local fishing community and see the daily catch being auctioned—a true sensory introduction to Sri Lanka.

  Colonial Echoes: If you feel like a short exploration, visit the Dutch Fort and the Hamilton Canal, remnants of the town’s rich history as a colonial trading hub.

  Seafood Dining: Enjoy your first authentic Sri Lankan meal at a beachside restaurant, where the catch of the day is served fresh from the sea to your table.

Overnight stay in NEGOMBO

After breakfast, depart the coast for the mist-shrouded hills of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage city and the last stronghold of the Sri Lankan kings. This scenic drive takes you into a cooler, temperate climate, passing through lush landscapes and emerald-green tea plantations.

Day 02 Activities

Your Kandy Experience Includes:

  • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage:Break your journey at thePinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a renowned sanctuary where you can observe rescued elephants bathing in the river and roaming within their protected habitat.
  • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya:Start your exploration at these world-renowned gardens, home to over 4,000 species of exotic plants. Marvel at the Giant Bamboo of Burma, the iconic Avenue of Palms, and the exquisite Orchid House.
  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic:Visit Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist site (Sri Dalada Maligawa). This golden-roofed temple houses the sacred tooth of the Buddha and stands as a symbol of the island’s deep-rooted spiritual heritage.
  • Scenic Kandy Lake & Viewpoint:Take a peaceful evening stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake in the heart of the city. Later, drive up to the upper lake viewpoint for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city nestled among the mountains.
  • Kandyan Cultural Performance:Witness a vibrant display of traditional Sri Lankan arts, featuring energetic drummers, masked dancers, and a thrilling fire-walking finale that brings the island’s folklore to life.
  • Artisan Heritage: Explore the local markets or visit a traditional gem museum to see the craftsmanship that has defined Kandy’s history for centuries.

Dinner & overnight stay in KANDY

 

Ascend into the emerald highlands to discover Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as “Little England.” Situated at an elevation of 1,889 meters, this charming retreat offers a refreshing, cool climate and a landscape defined by rolling tea estates and cascading waterfalls.

ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND NUWARA-ELIYA

Quick & Easy Activities in Nuwara Eliya

(Each takes about 30 minutes to 2 hours)

  1. Stroll Around Gregory Lake
  • Enjoy a lakeside walk, paddle boating, or a short horse ride.
  • Small cafés and snack stalls nearby.
    ⏱️ 1–2 hours
  1. Visit Victoria Park
  • Beautiful flower gardens, ponds, and pathways right in town.
  • Perfect for photography and a calm break.
    ⏱️ 45 mins–1 hour
  1. Tour a Tea Factory (e.g., Pedro or Labookellie Tea Estate)
  • See the tea-making process and sample fresh Ceylon tea.
  • Short guided tours available.
    ⏱️ 45 mins–1.5 hours
  1. Visit the Seetha Amman Temple
  • Colorful Hindu temple linked to the Ramayana legend.
  • Combine with a quick stop at Hakgala Gardens if time allows.
    ⏱️ 30–45 mins
  1. Walk to Lover’s Leap Waterfall
  • Short scenic hike through tea plantations.
  • Great for photos and a touch of adventure.
    ⏱️ 1–1.5 hours round trip
  1. Explore the Nuwara Eliya Town & Post Office
  • Visit the red-brick colonial post office and nearby market.
  • Enjoy a cup of tea or pastries at the Grand Hotel Café.
    ⏱️ 1 hour
  1. Shopping at Bale Bazaar (“Winter Market”)
  • Bargain shopping for woollens, souvenirs, and curios.
    ⏱️ 30–45 mins
  1. Drive or Jeep Tour to Moon Plains
  • Quick scenic ride to a panoramic viewpoint (“Mini World’s End”).
  • Requires a short local jeep ride; light walking only.
    ⏱️ 1.5–2 hours total
  1. Evening Tea or High Tea at Grand Hotel
  • Relax with traditional high tea overlooking the gardens.
    ⏱️ 1 hour
  1. Quick Stop at Galway’s Land National Park

Small urban forest ideal for a short nature or birdwatching walk.
⏱️ 1–1.5 hours

Dinner & overnight stay in NUWARA ELIYA

   

 

Leave behind the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya as you descend toward Ella, arguably Sri Lanka’s most picturesque mountain village. Surrounded by towering peaks and vast tea valleys, Ella offers a laid-back, bohemian atmosphere combined with some of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

ACTIVITIES IN AND AROUND ELLA

  The Nine Arches Bridge: Visit this architectural masterpiece hidden amidst lush jungle and tea fields. Known as the “Bridge in the Sky,” this colonial-era railway marvel was built entirely of stone and brick without the use of steel, offering one of the most famous photo opportunities in Asia.

  Little Adam’s Peak: Embark on a rewarding yet accessible hike to the summit of Little Adam’s Peak. The trail winds through verdant tea plantations, culminating in breathtaking 360-degree panoramic views of the Ella Gap and the plains below.

  Ella Rock & Ravana Falls: For the more adventurous, a trek to Ella Rock offers dramatic cliffside vistas. Later, refresh your senses at the majestic Ravana Falls, a cascading waterfall steeped in ancient legends of the Ramayana.

  Tea & Tranquility: Explore the local village life or visit a traditional tea factory to see how the high-altitude climate shapes the unique flavor of the region’s brew.

  Relaxed Mountain Vibe: Spend your evening in the vibrant town center, where cozy cafes and restaurants offer the perfect setting to unwind in the cool mountain air.

  The “Ella Vibe” & Nightlife: As the sun sets, Ella transforms. Experience the town’s famous nightlife, where the main strip comes alive with vibrant bars, live music, and a cosmopolitan “party vibe” that makes it the social heart of the hill country.

  Culinary Exploration: Spend your evening in one of the many bohemian cafes, enjoying a unique blend of traditional Sri Lankan flavors and international fusion cuisine.

ADVENTURE HIGHLIGHTS IN ELLA

 

  • Flying Ravana Mega Zipline:Experience Sri Lanka’s first ever mega zipline, stretching over half a kilometer. Fly at speeds of up to 80km/h over lush green tea estates with a bird’s-eye view of the iconic Ella Gap.
  • Abseiling at Ravana Falls:For a true rush, descend the rock faces near the majestic Ravana Falls. This guided activity combines the roar of the cascading water with the thrill of a vertical drop.
  • The Ella Rock Trek:A more challenging alternative to Little Adam’s Peak, this 4-hour hike takes you through rail tracks, tea bushes, and dense woodland to a cliff edge with a dramatic, sheer drop-off.
  • Mountain Biking:Navigate the rugged terrain of the Uva Province. Guided cycling tours take you through off-road paths, local villages, and tea trails that are inaccessible by car.
  • ATV Adventure Park:Located near the base of Little Adam’s Peak, you can tear through specially designed muddy tracks and forest trails on an all-terrain vehicle.
  • Paramotoring: For the ultimate high-altitude thrill, seasonal paramotoring offers a motorized paragliding experience, providing an unrivaled view of the southern plains of Sri Lanka.

Dinner & overnight stay in KANDY

 

Descend from the misty peaks of Ella to the golden southwestern coast. Bentota is a sun-drenched paradise where the river meets the sea, offering a perfect harmony of high-octane water sports and tranquil nature escapes.

Day 06 Activities

Highlights of your Bentota Experience:

  • Bentota River Safari:Glide through mysterious mangrove tunnels on a private boat. Keep your eyes peeled for monitor lizards, crocodiles, and vibrant kingfishers. For a more “local” touch, visit a small cinnamon island to see how the world-famous spice is peeled and prepared.
  • Adrenaline on the Water:Known as the water sports capital of Sri Lanka, Bentota offers everything from jet skiing and banana boat rides to windsurfing and parasailing in the calm waters of the river lagoon.
  • Kosgoda Sea Turtle Hatchery:Visit a nearby conservation project dedicated to protecting endangered sea turtles. Learn about the five species that nest on Sri Lanka’s shores and, if you’re lucky, help release tiny hatchlings into the ocean at sunset.
  • Architectural Wonders (Lunuganga & Brief Garden):Explore the “country estates” of the famous Bawa brothers. Lunuganga (Geoffrey Bawa’s home) and Brief Garden (Bevis Bawa’s creation) are masterpieces of tropical landscape architecture, blending European aesthetics with lush Sri Lankan flora.
  • Kande Vihara Temple:Pay your respects at this historic hilltop temple, home to one of the tallest seated Buddha statues in the world. The serene atmosphere and ancient murals offer a peaceful cultural retreat just minutes from the coast.
  • Golden Sands & Sunsets: End your journey with a stroll along Bentota Beach, a wide stretch of pristine sand perfect for a sunset walk or a seafood dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

Dinner & overnight stay in BENTOTA

 

Enjoy your final breakfast overlooking the Indian Ocean as your tropical adventure comes to a close. Depending on your flight schedule, you can spend your last morning soaking up the sun on Bentota Beach or picking up some last-minute authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs and spices in the local village.

Your Final Departure Details:

  • Scenic Coastal Drive:Your private vehicle will transfer you via the Southern Expressway, ensuring a smooth and efficient journey to the airport.
  • Reflect on the Journey:As you head toward the terminal, take a moment to reflect on a week filled with ancient royal kingdoms, mist-covered tea mountains, adrenaline-pumping adventures in Ella, and the golden shores of the south.
  • Seamless Airport Drop-off: Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport with ample time for check-in, assisted by your chauffeur-guide for the final time.

 

RECOMMENDED EXTENSIONS

If you wish to extend your journey, we recommend these high-end additions:

  • Yala National Park Safari (Add 1-2 Days):Venture to the deep south for a chance to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, sloth bears, and wild elephants on a private 4×4 luxury safari.
  • Whale Watching in Mirissa (Add 1 Day):Set sail on a luxury catamaran from Mirissa Harbor to witness the majestic Blue Whale—the largest animal on earth—in its natural habitat (Best from November to April).
  • Galle Fort Heritage Stay (Add 1 Day):Immerse yourself in the 17th-century charm of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, exploring its cobblestone streets and artisan boutiques.

Preparing for Your Journey

Since your journey takes you from the tropical humidity of the coast to the crisp, chilly mornings of the Highlands, packing efficiently is key. Sri Lanka is a land of contrasts—you’ll need swimwear one day and a warm jacket the next.

Here is your essential Traveler’s Checklist to ensure you are prepared for every environment:

1. Clothing for Every Climate

  • For the Highlands (Nuwara Eliya & Ella):Pack a light fleece, sweater, or a windbreaker. Early mornings for treks like Horton Plains can dip down to  to .
  • For the Coast (Negombo & Bentota):Lightweight, breathable cotton or linen clothing is best for the 
  • For Sacred Sites (Kandy & Ancient Cities):To respect local customs, you must cover your shoulders and knees. Carry a large sarong or a lightweight scarf in your daypack to wrap around yourself when entering temples.
  • Footwear:Comfortable walking shoes or hiking boots for Ella, plus a pair of flip-flops or sandals for the beach and easy removal at temple entrances.

2. Health & Protection

  • Sun Protection:The tropical sun is intense. High-SPF sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and polarized sunglasses are non-negotiable.
  • Insect Repellent:Essential for evening walks and jungle treks to ward off mosquitoes.
  • Hydration:Carry a reusable water bottle. Your chauffeur will provide filtered or bottled water, but having your own helps reduce plastic waste.

3. Gear & Tech

  • Universal Power Adapter:Sri Lanka primarily uses Type G (UK-style three-pin) and Type D plugs.
  • Waterproof Dry Bag:Very useful for the Bentota River Safari and protecting your phone/camera during sudden tropical rain showers.
  • Power Bank:Long drives and lots of photo-taking mean your battery will drain fast.
  • Binoculars:Highly recommended for bird watching during the river safari or spotting wildlife in the hills.

4. Essential Documents

  • Printed Copy of ETA (Visa):While digital is usually fine, a hard copy speeds up the process at immigration.
  • Travel Insurance Details:Keep a copy of your policy and the emergency contact number handy.
  • Small Cash (LKR):While hotels take cards, you will need local Rupees for tipping, small souvenirs, and street food.

Pro Tip: The “Temple Socks” Trick

When visiting stone temples like the Tooth Relic or Dambulla Caves, you must remove your shoes. The stone floors can get extremely hot in the sun. Pack a pair of thick white socks to wear so you can walk comfortably without burning your feet!

 

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SRI LANKAN HIGHLANDS (7 DAYS – 6 NIGHTS)SRI LANKAN HIGHLANDS (7 DAYS – 6 NIGHTS)
Starting From AUD 1,190
  • USD: USD 775
  • GBP: £ 577
  • EUR: € 665
  • JPY: ¥ 114,584
  • INR: ₹ 66,510
  • LKR: ₨ 232,407

Deposit : AUD 595 Per item

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