Private Tour Highlights
- Experience the aromas of Kandy’s botanical and spice gardens
- See the upper left canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself at the Temple of the Tooth
- Visit Nuwara Eliya, where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside
- Experience some spectacular birdwatching while trekking through the Singharaja Rainforest
- Lay out on the beautiful white sandy beach in Bentota under the shade of a palm tree
- Visit the elegant Parliament House, housing the Presidential Secretariat of Sri Lanka
- Said to be modeled after the United States’ White House, visit the Colombo Town Hall
- Visit the Independence Commemoration Hall, honoring Sri Lanka’s independence from British rule
- Do some shopping or walk along the coastline of the beautiful Colombo
- Purchase some traditional handicrafts at the Arts & Craft Center
Tour Overview
Experience Sri Lanka’s rich culture, amazing landscapes and exotic birdlife before ending your vacation relaxing on Sri Lanka’s best beaches. In Kandy visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, tour the rugged tea plantations of the Nuwara Eliya highlands and search for exotic birds in the Sinharaja Rainforest before unwinding on the white sands of Bentota.
Nuwara Eliya will offer quite a change of scenery, as it is composed of mountainous highlands, lush tea plantations and a cooler climate. This hill station has an unmistakable colonial air to it. 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.
Bentota is a coastal city located on the southern tip of the Galle District of the Southern Province. Bentota is famous for its toddy production, an alcoholic beverage made out of coconut nectar. Bentota is also a historical place described in many ancient messenger poems (sandeœa kāvya), and is well known for its white sand beaches and water sports.
Inclusions
• Service of a deluxe air-conditioned vehicle
• One time entrance fees at all monuments, all city tours
• 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.
Package Price: From £$ 7380
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
Overnight international flight to Colombo.
Overnight international flight to Colombo.
Welcome to Sri Lanka
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 retain 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 retain its old charm. The 100-year-old clock tower built by the British and some colonial buildings remain examples.
Colombo – Kandy
Transfer read more...
Transfer to the Peradeniya Botanical Garden.
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 & 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.
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 and glide through fresh fruits and vegetables in the Kandy market.
Fine-tune this 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
Drive read more...
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, maybe a walk through the uncharted lanes filled with ancient architecture. Augmented by an English countryside atmosphere, the city of light - once governed by English & Scottish planters - is still studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows & 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 & 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
Drive to Sinharaja Through the Gem City
City read more...
City of gems - Ratnapura, either way you name it, the legacy will continue!
Gem mines and swift hands mining & sorting the precious stones straight from the earth is nothing, but a common sight in Ratnapura. Watch how the stones are cut & polished into perfection through experienced hands which have sailed Sri Lanka in the best seas of treasure over centuries.
With an average annual rainfall between 3000-6000 mm Sinharaja proves to be one of the finest examples of tropic rain forests in the world. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site & biosphere reserve Sinharaja, treasures an absolute variation of both flora & 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 cave, stripe necked mongoose as well as butterflies & 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.
Overnight stay at a selected lodge in Sinharaja ...read less
Jungle Safari in Singharaja Rainforest
Leave read more...
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.
Afterwards, return to the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. The hotels here offer varying activities, including popular mountain biking and kayak circuits in the region. ...read less
Singharaja Rainforest – Bentota
In read more...
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
Day of Leisure in Bentota
Day at leisure soaking in the sun on the beaches of Bentota. Enjoy the azure hues of the Indian Ocean.
Choose to spend some time near the pool or perhaps go straight for the white sand beach to lie under the shade of the tropical palms or enjoy a few refreshing coconut drinks.
At night, be sure to indulge in some of the fine local seafood and unwind under the comfort of the warm Indian Ocean breezes.
Day at leisure soaking in the sun on the beaches of Bentota. Enjoy the azure hues of the Indian Ocean.
Choose to spend some time near the pool or perhaps go straight for the white sand beach to lie under the shade of the tropical palms or enjoy a few refreshing coconut drinks.
At night, be sure to indulge in some of the fine local seafood and unwind under the comfort of the warm Indian Ocean breezes.
Day of Leisure in Bentota
Again, spend the day at leisure enjoying the beach.
Again, spend the day at leisure enjoying the beach.
Bentota – Colombo
Be read more...
Be met at the hotel to transfer to Colombo.
The throbbing metropolis - 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
Flight Home
Transfer to the airport for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Transfer to the airport for a flight home or continue with an optional Yampu Tours add-on.
Colombo, Western Province, Sri Lanka
Kandy, Central Province, Sri Lanka
Nuwara Eliya, Central 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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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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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!
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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.
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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!
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