- Overview
- Inclusions and exclusions
- Itinerary
- Gallery
- Reviews
- Booking
Ultimate 10-Day Sri Lanka Private Tour: Culture, Wildlife & Beaches
This 10-Day Sri Lanka private tour offers the perfect introduction for first-time visitors to Sri Lanka with relaxation on Sri Lanka's pristine beaches. Your customizable itinerary includes four UNESCO World Heritage sites: the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Golden Temple of Dambulla and Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic) in Kandy and 3-night relaxation on the west coast beaches.
Visit a tea plantation, Spice Garden and the Royal Botanic Gardens, plus enjoy a scenic train journey from Peradeniya to Nanuoya. And towards the end of the trip, relax on the pristine beaches of Sri Lanka west coast. Includes round-trip private transport from Bandaranaike International Airport or your hotel in Colombo, Mount Lavinia or Negombo.
Is this trip right for you?
- The entire trip is private (transfers and sightseeing's), only you and your associates take part in the trip.
- These 10-day trip packs a lot in. It’s one of the most popular Sri Lanka tours, we run in our original style, perfect for those, who look for a one-week trip and a desire to do the most with it. If you are after a more leisurely trip in Sri Lanka or a shorter trip, please check our other tour itineraries.
- The last 3-nights of the trip is reserved for relaxation and having your own time with loved ones.
- Sri Lanka can get extremely hot in the summer. While we aim to do our walking tours, city tours early in the morning or afternoon, when it’s cooler, remember to keep water on you and to bring a hat, sunscreen, a long-sleeved shirt, and anything else that will protect you from the sun.
- Part of travelling with Intrepid means respecting local cultures and sensibilities. That way, you get the most out of your interactions with local people and environments. We visit a number of temples on this trip and to enter them, you must have clothes that cover to wrists and below the knee. Same times you have to remove the head covers and shoes upon entering the temple. Please click here to know more about the rules and regulations pertaining to Sri Lanka temple visits.
Why you love this trip
Embark on a journey that captures the very essence of Sri Lanka, from ancient wonders to pristine beaches. Here's why this trip will leave you spellbound:
- Step Back in Time
- Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Marvel at well-preserved ruins and intricate stone carvings
- Imagine life in this medieval capital as you wander through its extensive grounds
- Conquer the Sky Fortress
- Climb the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World"
- Explore the ingenious 5th-century landscaped gardens at its base
- Admire ancient frescoes and the famous Lion's Paw entrance
- Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views from the summit
- Golden Wonders of Dambulla
- Discover the Dambulla Golden Temple, a cave monastery with over 2000 years of history
- Admire the largest collection of Buddha statues in one place
- Gaze in wonder at the intricately painted cave ceilings and walls
- Wildlife Encounters in Yala
- Embark on an exhilarating safari in Yala National Park
- Spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species in their natural habitat
- Experience the thrill of tracking wildlife with expert guides
- Scenic Train Journey Through Tea Country
- Take the famous blue train through Sri Lanka's misty hill country
- Enjoy breathtaking views of lush tea plantations and cascading waterfalls
- Interact with friendly locals on this iconic rail journey
- Tea Experience
- Visit a tea garden and factory to learn about the art of tea production
- Discover the secrets behind the perfect cup of Ceylon tea
- Enjoy a tea tasting session with stunning hillside views
- Sacred Treasures in Kandy
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, home to Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist relic
- Witness colorful prayers and rituals in this golden-roofed sanctuary
- Soak in the spiritual atmosphere of this revered site
- Coastal Bliss
- Relax on palm-fringed beaches along the stunning west coast
- Indulge in an optional beachside massage for ultimate relaxation
- Explore charming coastal towns and their unique culture
- Historic Galle Fort
- Walk the ramparts of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site
- Discover Dutch-colonial architecture and quaint streets within the fort
- Enjoy panoramic ocean views and stop for a refreshing icy ginger drink in a local café
- Culinary Adventures
- Savor authentic Sri Lankan cuisine bursting with flavor
- Try local dishes that tantalize your taste buds (with options for all spice preferences)
- Learn about the aromatic spices that make Sri Lankan food unique
Tour Highlights: The Best of Sri Lanka in 10 Days
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's most iconic destinations:
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's most iconic destinations:
- UNESCO World Heritage Wonders
- Polonnaruwa: Explore the ancient city's well-preserved ruins and statues
- Dambulla: Marvel at the golden cave temples and their intricate Buddhist artwork
- Sigiriya: Climb the legendary rock fortress and admire its frescoes and water gardens
- Kandy: Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, home to a revered Buddhist relic
- Nature and Gardens
- Spice Garden: Discover aromatic spices and learn about their culinary and medicinal uses
- Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya: Stroll through 147 acres of magnificent flora
- Scenic Mountain Railways
- Experience a picturesque train journey to Nanuoya
- Enjoy breathtaking views of misty mountains and lush tea plantations
- Sri Lankan Highlands
- Explore the stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka's central mountains
- Visit tea factories and learn about the famous Ceylon tea production
- Wildlife Safari in Yala National Park
- Embark on an exciting jeep safari in one of Asia's premier national parks
- Spot elephants, leopards, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat
- Tropical Beach Retreat
- Unwind on the palm-fringed beaches of Sri Lanka's west coast
- Enjoy the perfect balance of relaxation and water activities
Additional information
- Additional Info confirmation will be received at the time of booking
- A current, valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Child rate applies only when sharing with 2 paying adults
- An adult must be with children at all times.
- The duration of transfers is approximate, the exact duration will depend on the time of day and traffic conditions
- A current, valid passport is required on the day of travel
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Near public transportation
- Infant seats, available
- Travellers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- This is a private tour/activity. Only your group will participate
Choose your payment method
We offer you mainly three payment options: card payments, bank transfers, or payment on arrival. You can choose whatever is the most convenient payment option for you. If you choose to pay on arrival, we will collect a 25% advance payment as a guarantee once we confirm your booking.
Inclusions
- 10 days (9 nights) accommodation in standard hotels
- Meal plan H/B basis (daily breakfast and dinner included)
- Entire ground transportation in an air-conditioned, luxury, private vehicle
- Pickup and drop-off at the airport or local hotels
- An Ayurveda spa treatment
- Guided walking tour of Nuwara Eliya
- All sightseeing tours as per the tour itinerary
- Ceylon tea trail
- Entrance fees for the following sites and activities
- Negombo city tour
- Sigiriya rock fortress
- Dambulla golden temple
- Safari tour Kaudulla national park
- Spice garden
- Tooth relic temple
- Royal botanical garden
- Kandy city tour
- Colombo city tour
- Tea plantation and factory
- Walking tour Galle fort
- Blue train journey from Nuwara eliya to Ella
- Service of an English-speaking chauffeur/guide for the entire tour (please inquire for other languages)
- All current taxes
- Breakfast at hotel (9 breakfasts)
- Dinner at the hotel (9 dinners)
- 1 Typical Sri Lankan local Lunch
Exclusions
- Sri Lanka visa-related fees
- Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff
- Any video / still camera fee to the monuments and places of visit
- Any others expense not mentioned on Price Includes section
- Flight tickets
- Gratuities
Itineraries
Day 1
Time : 7:00 am
Colombo-Anuradhapura-Sigiriya
Welcome by our English-speaking driver from hotels or airports in Colombo and drive to Sigiriya on the way visit Anuradhapura ancient city to explore the ancient wonders. Overnight at Sigiriya
Day 2
Time : 8:00 am
Sigiriya
Rise and shine early for a trip to Sigiriya, often called the "Eighth Wonder of the World." This ancient rock fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a testament to Sri Lanka's rich history. Later in the day, go on the Minneriya National Park safari.
Minneriya National Park
Evening Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco National Park 4x4 safari according to elephant’s availability. Overnight at Sigiriya
Day 3
Time : 7:00 am
Sigiriya-Polonnruwa
After breakfast, drive to Polonnaruwa ancient city and explore the 10th ancient historical city; later, take a village tour in Habarana. Overnight at Sigiriya
Day 4
Time : 9:00 am
Sigiriya-Dambulla-Kandy
After breakfast, leave for hotel in Kandy. En route, stop at Dambulla Golden Temple and Spice/Herbal Garden in the afternoon, visit Nalanda Gedige, and a Hindu temple later. Overnight at Kandy
Day 5
Time : 8:00 am
Kandy
After breakfast, visit important attractions in Kandy, such as the Royal Botanical Garden, the Gem Museum, Kandy Lake, and down town Kandy. In the afternoon, visit the tooth relic temple, royal botanical garden and witness the Kandyan cultural show. Overnight at Kandy
Day 6
Time : 9:00 am
Kandy-Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, drive to Nuwaraeliya and visit Ramboda Falls, a tea plantation, and a tea factory. After that, take a Nuwara Eliya city tour. Stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Day 7
Nuwara Eliya-Ella
After breakfast, drive to visit Gregory Lake and Victoria Park Garden for an hour. Later, take the 12.40 train ride to Ella, take the gorgeous panoramic view train. Please be aware that there is only a 50% chance of securing train tickets during the peak season due to high demand. Additionally, we can only confirm ticket availability one day before the scheduled train date. (We appreciate your understanding and flexibility with these constraints.) Little Adam's Peak View Point Evening: Climbing Little Adam’s Peak. Overnight at Ella
Day 8
Ella-Yala
After breakfast, drive to Tissamaharama. On the way, visit Rawana waterfall and Buduruwagala Rock Temple. In the evening, you have the option to choose between an exciting safari experience at either Yala National Park or Udawalawe National Park. Stay the night in Tissamaharama
Day 9
Yala-South coast
After breakfast, drive to a hotel on the south coast. The Beach Resort provides evening leisure. Mirissa's overnight stay
Day 10
South coast-Galle-Bentota-Colombo
After breakfast, leave for Colombo International Airport; en route, visit Galle Fort, Bentota beach and Colombo on a city tour.
Charlie Ronn– :
The Best of SriLanka tour was nothing short of wonderful sites and activites!! From our Tour Guide Jaya to the locations visited, experiences had, and everything in between; a magnificent way to see the country! little over 1 week of immersing within the culture exceeded all expectations …ticking-off yet another Bucket List item with only wonderful memories!
James– :
The 10-day Sri Lanka tour gave a good picture of Sri lanka from cultural triangle to hill country to beaches and many more. We trekked through tea plantations, cycled ruins, met locals on the bus and the trains sites, ate so much amazing food, saw a huge herd of elephants on a wildlife jeep safari, relaxed on the beach, and visited beautiful Stupa’s, Buddha’s and temples, and so much more. I had an amazing time and met some lovely people. If you haven’t been to Sri Lanka before, add it to your holiday wish list.
Edyta– :
The tour to see the best of Sri Lanka provided a wonderful overview of the island nation’s beauty. We witnessed a large herd of elephants while on a wildlife jeep safari, strolled along the beach, visited stunning Stupas, Buddhas, and temples, and much more. We also hiked through tea plantations, walked through ruins, and interacted with locals in the train. I met some really nice folks and had a great time. Put Sri Lanka on your wish list for a vacation if you haven’t been there previously.
Mikulai smuja– :
Our family had a wonderful and memorable experience traveling to Sri Lanka, which was a fantastic private trip that allowed for maximum flexibility. The trip was safe and unforgettable because of Gayan, our wonderful leader. Well orgabnized trip with good hotels, good food and wonderful guide. It was raining a lot towards the end of the trip, if it was not raining it could have been much better.
Teresa powel– :
What a fantastic trip it was to visit Sri Lanka—such a lovely nation full of amazing people. Our driver and personal guide, Gayan, was the most amazing person and made you fall in love with his country. Gayan and the entire crew made sure we had the nicest experience and were taken care of at every turn, and it was really well-organized.
Rasqui– :
Visiting Sri Lanka was a great experience and meaningful for our family and it was a superb private trip with maximum flexibility, especially in a difficult time for its tourism. Thanks to an excellent leader, Gayan, the trip was safe and memorable.
Lusana irmatiz– :
Very well planned, excellent trip. What is most interesting about teh trip is the flexibility. The company allowed us to change many areas of the trip as per our wish. It was very helpful to plan the trip the way we wanted to have it. Nice hotels, delicious rice and curry, plenty of leisure and good guide.
Lusana irmatiz– :
Interesting sri Lanka trip highly personalize service. Very very good and very interesting tour program with a very nice tour guide. The tour has avery interesting mix of activities and items. Very comprehensive trip with old Buddist temples, wildlife parks, beaches, tea plantations and many many more.
Sam– :
We had a such great trip in Sri Lanka with our guide Ranjan. The beach was the most interesting and wildlife tour was interesting too.
Liyara– :
What an incredible trip to experience the Sri Lanka – such a beautiful country filled with wonderful people. Gayan our personal; guide/driver was the most incredible guide who loves his country so much that he makes you love it too. It was so well organised, and Gayan and the whole staff ensured we had the best time and were taken care of every step and in every way.
gabreil muller– :
We combined this 10 days Sri Lanak tour with our 14 days beach holiday (quarantine). The 10 days trip was carefully crafted to present a wonderful tour inclusive of culture, history, adventure, interaction, scenery, relaxation, food and people. Every piece had a purpose which fell all into place.
Jehan preira– :
The 10 days Sri Lanak tour was fantastic. Our family was small, we had heaps of fun. We all did the optional experiences, not wanting to miss anything because it was so good. We felt extremely welcome in Sri Lanka: the people we met all over the country were so friendly. We felt very safe at all times. Our tour guide knew the answer to any question about his country. He also shared our down-under humour & friendly rivalry about the World Cup Cricket.
Zeesha tamini– :
Seerendipity to Sri Lanka was perfect for the active traveller. Well organised tour guides who know and understand all aspects of this country’s many communities. The opportunity to be part of the everyday life of the locals was the best experience for me. Travel, accomodation, food and safety all addressed.
milroy– :
It was a wonderful Sri Lanak trip, thank you.
lionel– :
An amazing Sri Lanka trip which packed so much into just 10 days but also included a lot of leisure time. A perfect mix of city and country experiences. Our personal guide, Nilantha, went out of his way to ensure we had a nice trip. Thank you! Sri Lanka needs tourists to return so if you are thinking of going do it now, Sri Lankan people will reward you with amazing hospitality and smiles!
Meronika fernando– :
We wanted to have a private family trip. Kids wanted to have fun while as adults we wanted to relax. This package had catered to all our individual taste. Well planned and well-organized trip. Our guide sam was very friendly and did a great job for our family.
Naolli aminiya– :
First time in Sri Lanka and first time with Seerendipity and had a great time. Great tour leader and a mix of inclusions, activities, and experiences hard to find elsewhere. Loved Sri Lanka, thank you to Seerendipity team and all the wonderful people we met.
Meleina rodrigo– :
An absolute must. Great way to see the main important places of Sri Lanka but also includes many things you would never know about/be able to do by yourself.
lloyd– :
Our Sri Lanka trip was an amazing overview of a beautiful country, Sri Lanka. If you are lucky enough to have our tour leader like saman you will leave Sri Lanka with a myriad of knowledge on their history and culture……… Enjoy
Sundermann– :
What an excellent trip to enjoy the nature culture and wildlife of Sri Lanka. Hotels are very good, good food and excellent service. Highly satisfied with the trip.
Romeil– :
What a great Sri Lanak trip after stranding at home for many months. There is a good mix of archaeology, religious temples and beaches. It is hard to pick our favourite part, but walking in the tea plantations has to be up there. Our driver/guide, Sunil was fantastic and he knows how guide his customers in style. God hotels, good vehicle and good price too. Highly recommend this trip.
Aleream– :
What a magical trip!!!!!!! Saman is hands down my favourite tour guide and this was our first visit to Sri Lanka and first trip with seerendipity! This trip is so full on and submerges you into Sri Lanka and the beauty of the country combining the new western style cities with the agriculture and tea plantations. I couldn’t recommend this trip more!!! Just remember to take sun cream and mosquito repellent.. like all trips!
Carolina– :
Best of Sri Lanka gives you the best of Sri Lanka. it is a great way to get to know this beautiful country and its friendly people. It packs in touring, trekking, villages, hill country and beaches. Just one warning – be prepared for the fact that your face will ache from smiling so much!
Kaman– :
I had a really great time on the Sri Lankan tour. Saw lots, did lots and all made very easy by the Seerendipity team. Our Jihan (Nandana) was fantastic and always in hand if we needed anything.
morita anguish– :
A marvellous trip to Sri Lanka, from ancient cities to contemporary daily life, wildlife and many more. Our fantastic, professional guide Jihan was able to cover all aspects of this beautiful country, knowledgeable, always readily available, his attention to each individual on the tour, the details of our travel and accommodation was exceptional. This tour was a delight for the palate with constant opportunities to experience the many varieties of rice and curry’, not restricted to tourist restaurants. Jihan was open to our preferences, his care for an unwell member of my family was dealt with great care. Although I was the ‘senior’ (61yrs) of our family, I found it fun and all physical aspects were quite manageable. I packed light, didn’t take or requite hiking boots as my sturdy walking sandals were perfect for this time of year (late Jan-early Feb). The climbs, walks and hikes are paced for everyone’s enjoyment. The hotels and included custom meals are an integral feature of the highlights being the Best of Sri Lanka.
Ganzou– :
Many thanks to the local tour operator (seerendipity) team for our wonderfully enjoyable and informative Sri Lanka Tour. We really got to engage with the locals thanks to our fantastic guide whose knowledge and passion for promoting his country and sharing its wonders was inspiring. Our MANY meals of rice with curries was amazing and even the accommodation which was, at times, a little up and down it was certainly value for money!.
George– :
Highly recommend comfortable trip to Sri Lanka. We had a vast array of experiences, from visiting historical places through the mountains, tea picking, visiting markets with locals, cooking classes in the homes of locals, the beach and always welcoming smiling faces. This trip has it all. We travelled with our teenage boys and they loved the trip. Seerendipity gave us a fantastic private family trip at an affordable price. Local guides mean local knowledge, passion and insights
Klinda ahamed– :
My first ever organized tour and my first trip with seerendipity. Everything turned out to be fantastic relaxing.
Bandon allan– :
It has been an amazing experience and would recommend to everyone to book with intrepid in general.
Denata– :
Excellent trip to Sri Lanak for the first timer.
Riana rose– :
This Sri Lanka trip covers the main cultural sights inclusind dozens of temples.Allows one to venture into the mountains and do a couple of hikes and meet people .Plus allows time for some down time at the beach . As my second visit to Sri Lanka I would really recommend this trip to get a great understanding of this beautiful island and very friendly lovely peopke
maciela– :
It was an amazing trip with an amazing tour guide. Gives you an incite to life of an ordinary person. Loved the tea plantations and the walk through and the villages. Scenic train ride. Safari to see the elephants.
Victor chemansky– :
The best of Sri Lanka was an amazing experience, our guide Gamini was good but he seems to need more experience in handling tours. but it was OK, he did his best. This trip provided everything, from cultural experiences; wildlife, to view ancient ruins, and the food was incredible. It is a country of smiles and wonderful people.
Tadano ali– :
The main reason we opted for the splendour tour was the availability of the dedicated vehicle and the driver guide. It turned out to be a fantastic private trip and ideal getaway showcasing the best of Sri Lanka’s built and natural worlds. The highlights reel encompasses the whole trip: elephants, hill country hiking, ancient ruins, delicious food (vegetarian friendly!) and our kind, generous tour guide Thilan.
Rolando– :
Splendour tour Sri Lanka is wonderful exposure to Sri Lankan history, agriculture, climate, culture and food. Experiencing hundreds of elephants in their natural environment may have been one of the highlights- or perhaps it was visiting the herb and spice garden to learn about Ayurvedic Medicine. The fabulous food, the friendly locals, the tea plantations, the UNESCO World Heritage sites, eating and cooking in family homes and sharing time with a small group of other travellers made for a memorable holiday.
Ganshen ching– :
Amazing trip. A great, supported way to see the highlights in Sri Lanka. Loved the small group size. The tour leader was so knowledgeable.
Dawood allan– :
A last-minute booking to Sri Lanka proved to be an excellent choice. A lovely country, friendly people and exceptional experiences. Our personal guide ‘Gamini’ contributed to a very memorable holiday.
Renton dawood– :
If you want a deep immersion in Sri Lanka’s history, sights and cultural practices, this trip is a must. Ray is an excellent guide and he will open your eyes to the country in a unique and memorable way.
Helina sander– :
It was a fantastic service from serendipity, very easy to book the trip and just a few emails and WhatsApp message.
Excellent all-round exposure to Sri Lankan culture, its people, animals and the varied countryside. Our wonderful guide Sam was good-natured, fun, caring and so so generous and passionate with his knowledge and passion for his country.
Idamond sally– :
Good trip
Rayomand hill– :
I have always been apprehensive about travelling alone but with Seerendipity it is made super easy. You get to see so much in a short space of time. Highly recommended
Peterson– :
I would highly recommend Sri Lanka as a destination for a trip
Charlette– :
The people are friendly, the food delicious, wildlife amazing and the variety of the itinerary was great. So much to do and see. It’s a beautiful country.
Andy loother– :
Perfect trip to showcase the spectacular sights, culture, food and people of Sri Lanka. I have come away with some amazing memories.
Indu riza– :
The splendour tour is a great way to visit all the must-see sites, try the local food and of course interact with the locals of Sri Lanka.
Fernosa alli– :
The best of Sri Lanka trip gave a great snapshot of how beautiful Sri Lanka is. We trekked through tea plantations, cycled ruins, met locals on the bus and the trains sites, ate so much amazing food, saw a huge herd of elephants on a wildlife jeep safari, relaxed on the beach, and visited beautiful Stupa’s, Buddha’s and temples, and so much more. I had an amazing time and met some lovely people. If you haven’t been to Sri Lanka before, add it to your holiday wish list.
Manam sikva– :
There is no better to explore this tropical island. This is an unspoilt and beautiful country and culture that we should all take time to appreciate. And the food – YUM!! Just do it. Good hotel, an excellent guide and a fantastic sedan.
Malibu ray– :
I cannot recommend Seerendipity’s best of Sri Lanka trip high enough from the moment I logged on to their website until the last day of our trip.
Nelisa ami– :
A brilliant trip; you get to experience a range of lush green environments, meet the locals and taste a variety of delicious foods. Our guide Silva was outstanding. We were regularly surprised by special activities and wonderful treats to taste. The tea plantation walks were a highlight as were the beautiful beaches.
Lukas– :
A fantastic tour of this amazing island. A good balance of different experiences! Highly recommended. Our tour guide Silva was absolutely brilliant!
milimand manzoos– :
Plan a trip to Sri Lanka, you should absolutely consider this option. Great way to see the main sights of Sri Lanka but also includes many things you would never know about/be able to do by yourself.
Handerson jameil– :
The Best of SriLanka tour was nothing short of INCREDIBLE!! From our Tour Guide (Thilan) to the locations visited, experiences had, and everything in between; a magnificent way to see the country! little over 1 week of immersing within the culture exceeded all expectations …ticking-off yet another Bucket List item with only wonderful memories!
Clemanski– :
Great way to see this beautiful tropical and friendly country.
Laron peters– :
At the beginning, it was busy, very laid back in the end. A lot of temples and a lot of rice and curry… The hikes were too laid back. We thought it was going to be more challenging. Overall a good trip