Classic Ceylon Highlights: A Grand Tour
A comprehensive journey to experience the full spectrum of Sri Lanka’s wonders, from ancient cities to pristine coasts.
Choose Your Duration: 10 Days / 9 Nights or 15 Days / 14 Nights
Journey Highlights
🏛️ Ancient Capitals
Explore Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Sigiriya's historical marvels.
🌊 Coastal Beauty
Discover the beaches of Trincomalee and Tangalle.
🚂 Scenic Train Ride
Experience the breathtaking journey through the hill country to Ella.
🐆 Yala Wildlife Safari
Thrilling encounters with leopards, elephants, and diverse wildlife.
🏘️ Cultural Heartlands
Immerse in Kandy's traditions and Galle's colonial charm.
🏙️ Colombo City Life
Experience the vibrant capital and its modern pulse.
Detailed Itinerary
This itinerary covers the 15-Day / 14-Night “Grand Sri Lanka Expedition.” A shorter 10-Day / 9-Night “Classic Ceylon Highlights” option is also available, focusing on key cultural and scenic spots. Contact us for details on the shorter itinerary.
Day 1: Arrival in Negombo & Coastal Welcome
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be transferred to your hotel in Negombo. Relax and enjoy the coastal atmosphere, perhaps taking a stroll along the beach or visiting the local fish market. Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Negombo
Day 2: Negombo to Anuradhapura & Ancient Wonders
Journey to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its vast archaeological park, including ancient stupas, temples, and the sacred Bodhi Tree.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Anuradhapura
Day 3: Mihintale & Trincomalee Beaches
Visit Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, offering spiritual significance and panoramic views. Afterwards, head to the east coast and relax on the beautiful beaches of Trincomalee.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 4: Trincomalee Exploration & Koneswaram Temple
Explore Trincomalee, including the historic Koneswaram Kovil (Hindu Temple) perched on Swami Rock. Enjoy the day at leisure on the beach, perhaps indulging in snorkeling or diving (seasonal).
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Trincomalee
Day 5: Trincomalee to Habarana & Village Experience
Travel inland to Habarana, a central hub for the Cultural Triangle. In the afternoon, enjoy an authentic village experience, perhaps including a bullock cart ride, a catamaran boat trip, and a traditional Sri Lankan lunch.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner | Overnight: Habarana
Day 6: Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple
Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and marvel at its ancient frescoes and panoramic views. In the afternoon, explore the mystical Dambulla Cave Temple, adorned with ancient murals and Buddha statues.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Habarana
Day 7: Polonnaruwa Ancient City & Kandy
Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, by bicycle. Discover its well-preserved ruins and giant Buddha carvings. Afterwards, proceed to Kandy, the cultural capital.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Kandy
Day 8: Kandy Cultural Immersion & Temple of the Tooth
Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. In the evening, witness a captivating Kandyan cultural dance performance.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Kandy
Day 9: Kandy to Ella by Scenic Train
Experience one of the world's most scenic train rides from a nearby station (e.g., Nanu Oya) to Ella, winding through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Ella
Day 10: Ella Hikes & Nine Arch Bridge
Hike to Little Adam's Peak for stunning views and visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Explore Ella town and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Ella
Day 11: Ella to Yala National Park & Safari
Journey to Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating jeep safari, hoping to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and various bird species.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Yala Area
Day 12: Yala to Tangalle & Beach Relaxation
After a final morning safari (optional, extra cost) or a leisurely breakfast, head to the pristine beaches of Tangalle. Spend the rest of the day relaxing by the ocean.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Tangalle
Day 13: Tangalle Beach Day & Leisure
Enjoy a full day at leisure on the beautiful beaches of Tangalle. Swim, sunbathe, or simply unwind amidst the tranquil coastal scenery.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Tangalle
Day 14: Tangalle to Galle & Colombo City Tour
Journey along the scenic coastal road to Galle. Explore the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterwards, continue to Colombo for a city tour, visiting key landmarks and enjoying some last-minute shopping.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Colombo
Day 15: Departure
Enjoy your final Sri Lankan breakfast. Depending on your flight schedule, you will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your departure, carrying cherished memories of your grand tour of the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast
What's Included
- Accommodation in comfortable 3-4 star hotels/resorts (double occupancy).
- Daily breakfast and select dinners as per itinerary.
- All private air-conditioned transfers throughout the tour.
- Scenic train tickets (Nanu Oya to Ella).
- Jeep safari in Yala National Park.
- Entrance fees to all specified attractions (Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Temple of the Tooth, Royal Botanical Gardens, Yala National Park, Galle Fort).
- Experienced local English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
- Cultural dance show in Kandy.
- Village experience in Habarana.
- 24/7 emergency support from Zeylona.com team.
What's Not Included
- International flights to and from Sri Lanka.
- Visa fees for Sri Lanka.
- Lunches (unless specified) and additional beverages.
- Optional activities not mentioned in the itinerary.
- Personal expenses (e.g., laundry, phone calls, souvenirs).
- Travel insurance (highly recommended).
- Tips for guides, drivers, and hotel staff.
- Any increase in government taxes or fuel surcharges.
Pricing & Booking
**Starting from $1,750 per person (10 Days / 9 Nights)**
**Starting from $2,500 per person (15 Days / 14 Nights)**
*Prices are based on twin-sharing accommodation and are illustrative. Final pricing may vary based on travel dates, group size, accommodation choices, and customization requests. Contact us for a personalized quote.*