8-Day Essential Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean! On arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, you're met by your private chauffeur guide and driven to your hotel in Negombo, a seaside town which is only 20 minutes away from the airport. Rest of the day is at your leisure.

Overnight: Negombo

In the morning, start your exploration of Negombo, this historical commercial center surrounded by a fascinating network of canals teeming with rural life. Wake early and catch the action at the Negombo Fish Market. 

In the afternoon, head inland to Dambulla (about 5hours), home to vibrantly decorated cave temples and a great base to explore the wide array of natural wonders and historic sites in this fascinating area. 

Overnight: Sigiriya
Meal: Breakfast

Today, you'll visit the Landmark of this country, the legendary sky citadel of "Lion Rock", the most impressive site in Sri Lanka. Despite the steep climb, the story behind and the panoramic view of Dambulla from its top are definitely worth it.

Next, travel the lush countryside by a jeep or a tuk-tuk in the rural village of Hiriwadunna, alongside paddy fields and vegetable plantations. Afterward, sail to the other side of a lake by catamaran, enjoy the fabulous sunset view and look out for the vivid scenes of life.

Overnight: Sigiriya
Meal: Breakfast

Today, get started with the famous Dambulla Cave Temple, home to many magnificent Buddha images and rock painting dating back to 2nd century BC. Then head for Ceylon's old capital of Kandy, en route stop for an interesting visit to learn a wide range of spices at one of spice garden, whose 15-minute complimentary Ayurveda Massage is recommended.

After arriving in Kandy (approx. 3.5 hours), appreciate a vivid and traditional cultural dance (Kandyan Dance) before walking to the nearby Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist shrine, the Puja Ritual held in the temple with all the fanfare, drums, trumpets and brightly colored Monks definitely shows you how special and spiritually important the temple means to Sri Lanka.

Overnight: Kandy
Meal: Breakfast

Take an interesting visit to Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya, home to over 300 varieties of orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees.

Drive to Galle, a colonial port fortified by Portuguese first then Dutch (approx. 6 hours), for your overnight.

Overnight: Galle
Meal: Breakfast

The Dutch Fort will be the first. As the colonial heart of Galle, it is regarded as one of Sri Lanka's best-preserved fortress where you will see a few small museums and imposing Dutch churches. Later, you could wander the rampart walls and enjoy the views. It is suggested that you can try one of the local restaurants for dinner in the fort, which is lit up at night.

Overnight: Galle
Meal: Breakfast

Today, you will board a train at Galle Railway station northwards to Colombo City, the capital of Sri Lanka. A train journey from Galle to Colombo follows the coastal route and is scenic and enjoyable. The 3-4 hours' journey offers chances of photos with locals, as well as beautiful views of the ocean and some spectacular places the train passes by.

Upon your arrival, be picked up by your chauffeur guide at Colombo railway station. Be transferred to your hotel and the rest of the day is at your leisure.

Note: The train is mainly for local passengers and it couldn't be pre-booked. If the tickets are sold out, we will change the train to 2 hours' drive by private vehicle.

Overnight: Colombo
Meal: Breakfast

After breakfast, take a guided city tour to explore Colombo's colonial legacies including the Independence Square, Gangarama Temple of Colombo, mile-long promenade of Galle Face Green and Colombo's National Museum etc. Stop to take pictures when driving by the former British Administrative Center, etc.

In the late afternoon, you will be escorted to CMB airport (1-hour drive from Colombo city) for your onward flight.

Meal: Breakfast