Private Tour Highlights
- See some of the most famous and tallest dagobas of Sri Lanka
- Visit the oldest historically documented tree in the world, the sacred Bo tree
- View the famous “Heavenly Maidens” and the mirror wall of the Rock Fortress
- Visit the Royal Botanical Center, showcasing some of the finest gardens of its kind in Asia
- Travel to the Temple of the Tooth to see the upper left canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself
- Purchase some traditional handicrafts at the Arts & Craft Center
- Journey to Nuwara Eliya, where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside
- Take a morning jungle excursion in search of Yala’s leopards, elephants and other wildlife
- Experience some spectacular birdwatching while trekking through the Singharaja Rainforest
- Enjoy a refreshing coconut drink on the beach in Bentota under the shade of a palm tree
- Visit the elegant Parliament House, housing the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka
Tour Overview
Ancient cities, Buddhist temples, lush tea plantations, wild leopards and elephants, dense rainforests and pristine beaches; this tour of Sri Lanka offers it all. Depart from Colombo for the millennia old city of Anuradhapura and visit the magnificent stone palace at Sigiriya en route to the cultural capital of Kandy. Then, travel through the rugged Tea Country of Nuwara Eliya, along the leopard habitat of Yala National Park and back through the Sinharaja Rainforest. Finish on the sandy beaches of Bentota with a few days to relax in this coastal town, well known for its water sports.
The last part of Sri Lanka to fall to the British in 1815, Kandy is a World Heritage City reflecting its rich cultural and historic importance.. The centerpiece of the town is the highly sacred Temple of the Tooth that claims to contain one of the Buddha’s teeth, which is annually paraded around the town in a gold casket by elephant-back during the Esala Perahera Festival. South of Kandy lies Nuwara Eliya, the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country with a colonial-era atmosphere, rolling green hills and cool mountain weather.
The remainder of the trip will focus on the rich wildlife of Sri Lanka, where you can see populations of elephant, spotted deer, sambar, wild buffalo, sloth bear and most notably leopards in Yala National Park. The Sinharaja Rainforest is also a UNESCO World Heritage site and is special for being the least disturbed and most biologically unique lowland rainforest remaining in Sri Lanka. It is a treasure trove of endemic species including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, mammals and 95% of Sri Lanka’s endemic birds. After all of the excitement, unwind with a few days of relaxation and sunbathing on Bentota’s fine beaches.
Inclusions
• Service of a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle
• One time entrance fees at all monuments
• Specified city tours and activities, including safaris and rainforest trek
• Services of English-speaking local guide for excursions
• All currently applicable taxes including service tax
Exclusions
• Visa fee for Sri Lanka.
• International or domestic flights (unless specified).
• Bank charges/ Online card payment charges.
• Early check-in or Late check-out depending on the flight schedule.
• Lunch and Dinner throughout the tour (unless specified).
• Cost for Optional activities/ sites and experiences.
• Expenses of personal nature.
• Any other services not specified above.
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Notes:
* Yala National Park remains closed during the months of September and October due to monsoon season. However, alternative blocks will be made available for game drives during this period.
* The best time of the year for animal sightings is during the dry season, which falls between May and August.
* Game drives are operated on a shared basis with other guests. Exclusive safari vehicle could be arranged at an additional cost.
Package Price: From £$ 9144
Prices shown above are per person. Hotel categories do not adhere strictly to international ratings; Yampu has evaluated the hotels according to destination and availability. Prices include local airfare (where applicable), hotel accommodation including daily breakfast; all transfers with baggage handling, all guided tours in English and all entrance fees.
Please note that prices are subject to change based on availability and seasonality, especially during the holiday season from December 20th through January 5th each year. Please contact a Yampu Travel Specialist for more information on best times to travel.
Trip Type:
All our trips are operated on a private basis unless specified otherwise. This is only a sample itinerary; your Yampu Tour Consultant will personalize this trip for you according to your available dates, interests and type of hotels. This is your trip and we will work on making it perfect!
Tour Itinerary
International flight to Colombo airport
Overnight international flight to Colombo Airport.
Overnight international flight to Colombo Airport.
Arrival in Colombo
Upon arrival and following the airport reception, visit the contemporary capital city - Colombo - the trade capital of Sri Lanka.
As a city that has undergone rapid changes Colombo still preserves the locality in its utmost respect. While most old buildings have been replaced by new apartments and office buildings, some parts of the city yet retains its old charm. The 100 year old clock tower built by the British and some colonial buildings remain examples.
Upon arrival and following the airport reception, visit the contemporary capital city - Colombo - the trade capital of Sri Lanka.
As a city that has undergone rapid changes Colombo still preserves the locality in its utmost respect. While most old buildings have been replaced by new apartments and office buildings, some parts of the city yet retains its old charm. The 100 year old clock tower built by the British and some colonial buildings remain examples.
Visit to Anuradhapura
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This morning, be met at your hotel to transfer to the city of Anuradhapura.
Commanding a rich Sri Lankan heritage, Anuradhapura, one of the greatest and oldest civilization in the world starring 113 kings and spanning over 1300 years in its peak, vows of being the greatest city of ancient Sri Lanka following its reign as the first capital.
The sapphire of its crown is certainly the Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred BO sapling extracted from the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Standing more than 220 years in its pride. Stroll through the sacred trails of the venerated city to adore the legacy that interweaves Ruwanweliseya.
The heritage, Supremacy and culture arguably makes Anuradhapura the strongest kingdom of Sri Lanka ...read less
Colombo – Sigiriya
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This morning, be met at the hotel to transfer to Sigiriya.
The 5th century rock citadel of King Kasyapa and World Heritage Site - Sigiriya - doesn't only boast of ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy but also acclaims to one of the finest monuments of art & culture. Step through the gigantic 'Lion Paws’ overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below to comprehend the absolute splendour that once dominated this rock fortress.
Surrounded by ramparts & moats, the Lion Rock resembles the mythological 'City of Gods' - coated by frescoes that relate to Gupta style paintings found in Ajanta caves of India. Walk in the shade of an eminent 'mirror wall' embracing the Western face of Sigiriya, representing an artistic hundred meters laminated with graffiti.
Wander into the well-fabricated museum downstairs for an epic journey of yesteryears to realize how the citadel floated above citizens with the castle, ponds, and irrigation systems that pumped water right onto its summit with an ingenious hydraulic system, describing a colossal masterpiece of the great king which remained a wonder in Asia for centuries. ...read less
Sigiriya – Kandy
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Drive to Kandy (92 kilometers, 2-3 hours).
Upon arrival, enjoy a full day guided city tour beginning at the Royal Botanical Center. First developed as a pleasure garden under royalty and later harmonized by the British, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya – today bundled with the most welcoming facilities located just 4 miles off Kandy – is a flourishing national asset in the Wonder of Asia. Walk into this 147-acre bliss of an experience, passing well-tended lawns, pavilions, and an octagon conservatory to be greeted by the vast expanse of a magnificently landscaped lush green turf which will encourage you for an exhilarating break.
Next, transfer from Matale to Kandy, a monumental city that holds a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankans. This beautiful lakeside city cradled among the misty hills was the last capital of the native kings before the British conquered the whole island. It is also where the sacred tooth relic of Buddha is stored in a magnificent temple complex. A stroll across this small town will feature the Kandy City Centre – complete with modern and world-class brands – a bazaar, an arts and crafts center, and a gem museum and lapidary. Walk through color as you glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market. Fine-tune the evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music and drumming amplified by a cultural show, enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka. ...read less
Kandy – Nuwara Eliya
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Drive to Nuwara Eliya (80 Kms, 2-3 hours).
Misty steep roads, twisting through flourishing tea bushes in a cool climate, remind visitors that they are within the range of the renowned British colonial retreat, Nuwara Eliya.
A pleasant evening to enjoy the amicable surroundings may include a walk through the uncharted lanes filled with ancient architecture. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light—once governed by English and Scottish planters—is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows, and one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world.
A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls should present breathtaking views of a buzzing countryside hamlet. Drive through green valleys of the hill country pierced by endless waterfalls and dotted by tea pluckers draped in bright-colored saris. Or rent a bike for a gentle ride along the banks splashed by the waters of Lake Gregory or enjoy a quiescent boat ride in this cool climate.
Overnight stay at a selected hotel in Nuwara Eliya. ...read less
Nuwara Eliya – Yala National Park
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Drive to Yala National Park (192 kms, 5-6 hours).
Get ready to experience a journey of a lifetime. From the cool hill climate to a tropical weather change, the route covers some of the most picturesque sights in Sri Lanka, including Ella and Bandarawela. Ella has several waterfalls which will take your breath away. These will definitely be sights for sore eyes. Relax and enjoy these mesmerizing miles with their spine-tingling beauty.
Situated in Sri Lanka's southeast, hugging the panoramic Indian Ocean, Yala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was designated a national park in 1938. Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammals and 215 bird species. Among its famous residents are the world's biggest concentration of leopards, majestic elephants, sloth bears, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles.
The best time to visit Yala is between February and July when the water levels of the park are quite low, bringing animals into the open. Spend 2 amazing days in this simple environment. ...read less
Jungle excursion in Yala National Park
Embark on a morning jungle excursion in search of Yala's leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
This will be approximately 3-4 hours. Enjoy some time at rest around noon before heading out for a second game drive after the heat of the day has passed. Safaris will be guided in open-top Jeeps.
Embark on a morning jungle excursion in search of Yala's leopards, elephants, and other wildlife.
This will be approximately 3-4 hours. Enjoy some time at rest around noon before heading out for a second game drive after the heat of the day has passed. Safaris will be guided in open-top Jeeps.
Last day in Yala National Park
Again, enjoy another day of morning and afternoon jungle safaris for a last chance to see any previously unseen animals on safari.
Again, enjoy another day of morning and afternoon jungle safaris for a last chance to see any previously unseen animals on safari.
Day Drive to Sinharaja through Tissamaharama
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Begin the day by being met at the hotel to transfer to Sinharaja through Tissamaharama.
Once the capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom of Ruhuna as early as the 3rd Century B.C., few buildings from that period can still be seen today. The largest artificial lake - Tissa Wewa - which was a part of a sophisticated irrigation system, also dates from that time. There are five main lakes in the vicinity of Tissamaharama: Tissa Wewa, Yoda Wewa, Weerawila Wewa, Panneganuwa Wewa, and Debara Wewa. Today, the town mainly serves as a starting point for visits to Yala and Kataragama.
With an average annual rainfall between 3000-6000 mm, Sinharaja proves to be one of the finest examples of tropical rainforests in the world. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and biosphere reserve, Sinharaja treasures an absolute variation of both flora and fauna, with most of them being endemic. Walk in through either entrance - Kudawa Pitadeniya or Morning Side - for a refreshing treat covering fauna varieties extending from spotted deer, hog deer, golden palm civet, stripe-necked mongoose, as well as butterflies and reptiles sheltered by the striking evergreen vegetation. Even though there haven't been elephant sightings in the recent past, constant leopard trails prove that the 'King of Games' still haunts this tropical stage. ...read less
Wilderness Expedition in Sinharaja
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Leave no stone unturned on this last major undisturbed area of rainforest.
On most days, the forest is shrouded by copious rainclouds that replenish its deep soils and balance water for much of southwestern Sri Lanka. The largest carnivore here is the leopard. Its presence can usually be gauged only by droppings and tracks, and it's seldom seen.
Medicinal plants are collected during specific seasons. Moist and muggy, murky and mysterious, an experience of Sinharaja is like nothing else in Sri Lanka.
Trekking through this magnificent jungle is a treat. An encounter with this bewildering land of exotic colors and melodious sounds is truly an enriching experience. ...read less
Bentota Beach
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In the morning, be met at the selected hotel for the transfer to Bentota.
Later that morning, arrive in Bentota while experiencing the azure coastal border. Bentota is a resort town on Sri Lanka's southwest coast. Its long beach stretches north, where it becomes a sandy strip known as Paradise Island. Beaches to the south of Bentota are famous for their turtle nesting beaches.
A popular day excursion is to take a local taxi to Galle, perhaps taking a glass-bottom boat at Hikkaduwa en route to see the multicolored fish at the Coral Gardens Sanctuary. ...read less
Bentota Beach
Again, spend the day at leisure enjoying the beach.
Again, spend the day at leisure enjoying the beach.
Bentota Beach – Colombo
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Be met at the hotel to transfer to the throbbing metropolis, Colombo - located in the West - is not only the country's commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP flanking Colombo's fancy urban development effort.
Drive along the clean streets edging the crystal white Race Course - horse racing hub in 1893 & World War II airstrip - furnished today with lavish clothing, food & tea boutiques. Meanwhile, ride to Pettah & tune into the Floating Market - an offbeat shopping experience - or feel the buzz surrounding the upcoming inspiration, the Colombo Port City - an offshore city - featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track. ...read less
International flight home
Transfer to the airport for the flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Transfer to the airport for the flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka
Anuradhapura, North Central Province, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Nuwara Eliya, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Yala National Park Information Centre, Hambantota, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Sinharaja Forest Reserve, Ratnapura, Sabaragamuwa Province, Sri Lanka
Bentota, Southern Province, Sri Lanka
Places You'll See
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Bentota
Come for a relaxing stay in the coastal city of Bentota. Enjoy a cup of tea on the veranda after touring the Chaplon tea center, or choose from the selection of traditional culinary delights at the Silk Route Caf� and Restaurant. Purchase trinkets from the local vendors, or visit it the turtle hatcheries.
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Sinharaja
Saved from commercial logging by its inaccessibility, the Sinharaja Forest Reserve is one of the last major undisturbed areas of rainforest in Sri Lanka. Low hanging rainclouds balance the water resources and replenish the reserve’s deep soil. Take a guided tour through trails and try to spot the wildlife hiding among the vegetation.
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Yala National Park
For the best place to see wild elephants, and for the best chance of seeing wild leopards, visit Yala National Park. It has the highest concentration of leopards in the world, though still only has about 35 in the whole park. There are several other species to see, as well as a large bird population. Take a guided tour through the park and see how many creatures can be spotted.
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Nuwara Eliya
Thanks to its colonial architecture, Nuwara Eliya has earned the nickname of “Little England”. Take a tour of the Pedro Tea Factory and wander through the plantation’s paths. Visit the Hindu Seetha Temple near the Haggala Botanical Gardens, or take a walk to the top of Single Tree Mountain for spectacular views of the city.
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Kandy
Experience Sri Lanka’s culture and cuisine in the beautiful city of Kandy. Visit one of Sri Lanka’s most holy shrines, the Temple of the Tooth, home to a tooth relic of the Lord Buddha. Take a walk through downtown and purchase local treats from the numerous bakeries. See elephants roam freely at the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage.
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Sigriya
Meaning “Lion Rock”, Sigiriya was once a palace and is now a historical and archeological site. The palace was built on the top of the 660-foot rock column, with a lion shaped gateway about half way up the rock’s face on a small plateau. The western face of the rock is covered in painted frescoes, and the Mirror Wall. There are also several beautiful gardens in within the city.
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Anuradhapura
See some of the greatest and well preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lanka civilization in the city of Anuradhapura. See a cutting from the original Bodhi tree which Buddha sat underneath at the Bodhi Tree Temple. Visit the Archeology Museum or the Citadel. Purchase trinkets from the shops and market, or see the rock carvings at Isurumuniya Vihara.
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Colombo
The vibrant city of Colombo is a common gateway to Sri Lanka, but is also a wonderful place to stay. Visit one of the museums or galleries such as The Lionel Wendt Memorial Art Centre. For breathtaking sunset views, visit the Galle Face Green Promenade. Spend some time the Turtle Conservation Villa to learn the importance of protecting endangered turtles.
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Testimonials
Lucy and John
Traveled April, 2012
India and Sri Lanka were an amazing combination
India and Sri Lanka were an amazing combination! The hustle of India is exciting, but also overwhelming so including Sri Lanka toward the end of our itinerary was an amazing way to relax and unwind! In India we were blown away by the service at the Deluxe hotels, and even the 4-star hotels. The hospitality in India is incredible with everyone working to make sure you are comfortable and happy. We loved the Oberoi hotels, the rooms were beautiful and the service was immaculate. The sites in India were truly amazing and we loved the elephant safaris and interactions were we were able to bathe and paint these gentle giants! During our long transfers in India our driver was pleasant, providing us with interesting facts but not overwhelming us with too many details or idle chatter.In Sri Lanka we absolutely loved the Temple of the Tooth, the atmosphere is so humbling and spiritual; absolutely a must-see! We loved the ancient site of Polonnaruwa and the lying down Buddha and the elephant orphanage at Pinnawela. We also really enjoyed climbing the Sigiriya rock fortress, although its not the best option for those who are scared of heights!
Traveled To
Joan
Traveled August, 2012
Had a wonderful time in Sri Lanka
Had a wonderful time in Sri Lanka and no small amount was due to my driver/guide Lankesh Peiris. He was knowledgeable, fluent in English and attentive to my needs and safety. His stellar driving skills were a marvel and so necessary in the Asian traffic dance! The cultural and wildlife experiences exceeded my expectations and perhaps most important was the hospitable, kind and gentle nature of the Sri Lankan people. As always Yampu has provided a first rate travel experience. Thanks!
Traveled To
Ginger M.
Traveled January, 2013
Thanks for a wonderful trip.
Thanks for a wonderful trip. We will be actively looking at Yampu for our trip next year (probably South America) If you have ideas, send them along. We would love to attend a sporting event if possible. We got a flavor for Cricket while in Sri Lanka which was exciting.Food allergies were attended to everywhere. thanks for making that possible.Sights and diversions were fun and interesting. I counted over 25 different birds and 12 different mammals and reptiles in Yala, we even saw a leopard!! The elephant ride was fun and a story to bring home. The botanical gardens in Kandy were beautiful and a wonderful peaceful place to recharge our bodies.Kudos to Milroy our driver/guide for helping me with my gimpy leg. He was very patient and always cheerful thus making the trip that much more enjoyable.
Traveled To