Simply Ceylon: Essential Highlights
Experience the core cultural and natural highlights of Sri Lanka on this efficient and budget-friendly group tour. Perfect for groups seeking maximum impact at a minimal cost.
8 Days / 7 Nights
Journey Highlights
🏙️ Vibrant Colombo
A brief city tour of the bustling capital.
🏯 Cultural Kandy
Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic.
🚂 Scenic Train Ride
Witness breathtaking landscapes from Kandy to Ella.
⛰️ Ella's Natural Beauty
Hike Little Adam's Peak and see the Nine Arch Bridge.
🐘 Udawalawe Safari
An exciting jeep safari to spot wild elephants.
🏖️ Southern Beaches
Relax and unwind on the beautiful southern coast.
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival & Colombo City Tour
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel in Colombo. After settling in, we'll embark on a brief city tour, exploring key landmarks like Galle Face Green and the vibrant Pettah Market. Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan welcome dinner.
Meals: Dinner | Overnight: Colombo
Day 2: Kandy's Cultural Heart
After breakfast, we'll travel to the hill capital of Kandy. In the afternoon, we will visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. In the evening, immerse yourself in local traditions with a captivating cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dancing.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Kandy
Day 3: Scenic Train Ride to Ella
This morning, take the world-renowned scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella. This journey offers some of the most breathtaking views of tea plantations, mountains, and misty valleys. Upon arrival in Ella, you will be transferred to your hotel to relax.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Ella
Day 4: Hiking & Exploration in Ella
Spend the day exploring the natural wonders of Ella. We will hike to Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views of the region and visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, where you can watch a train pass through the beautiful stone structure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Ella
Day 5: Udawalawe Safari Adventure
After breakfast, we will drive from Ella to Udawalawe National Park. In the afternoon, you'll go on an exciting jeep safari to get up close with herds of elephants, along with other wildlife such as water buffalo, crocodiles, and various bird species.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Udawalawe
Day 6: Udawalawe to Southern Beaches
This morning, we will journey from the inland wilderness to the stunning southern coast. Arrive in a beautiful coastal town like Weligama or Mirissa and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sound of the ocean.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Southern Beach
Day 7: Southern Coast Leisure
A full day to relax and soak up the sun. You can choose to swim in the ocean, explore the local area, or just unwind by the pool.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner | Overnight: Southern Beach
Day 8: Departure
Enjoy your final Sri Lankan breakfast before being transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your departure, carrying cherished memories of your essential highlights tour.
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.
- Kandy to Ella train ticket (2nd class).
- Jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park.
- Entrance fees to specified attractions (Temple of the Tooth Relic, Udawalawe).
- Experienced local English-speaking guide throughout the tour.
- 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.