Explore Sri Lanka
FEATURES
HIGHLIGHTS
HOTELS
SIGHTSEEING
FLIGHT
MEALS
Sri Lanka, a tropical island in the Indian Ocean, is a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and natural beauty. Known for its ancient UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lush tea plantations, pristine beaches, and warm hospitality, Sri Lanka offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. From the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene highlands of Nuwara Eliya and the coastal paradise of Bentota, this journey showcases the island’s diverse landscapes and rich heritage.
OVERVIEW
This Sri Lanka adventure takes you on a captivating journey from the historic coastal charm of Negombo to the cultural wonders of the island’s famed Cultural Triangle, through the misty mountains of the hill country, and finally to the sun-kissed beaches of the southwest coast. Your journey begins with a relaxing stay in Negombo, giving you time to adjust to the tropical pace and explore the colonial charm of this seaside town. From there, you’ll venture to Habarana, your base for discovering two UNESCO World Heritage Sites – the dramatic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa. Afterward, travel south to the sacred city of Kandy, home to the Temple of the Tooth Relic and vibrant Kandyan culture. Climbing into the highlands, you’ll be immersed in the tea country of Nuwara Eliya, a region reminiscent of the British colonial era, surrounded by lush green plantations and crisp mountain air. A scenic train ride through Ella’s rolling hills takes you toward the coast, where you’ll unwind in Bentota, indulging in river safaris, turtle conservation visits, and beachfront leisure. The trip concludes in Colombo, where you’ll explore the vibrant cityscape, sample local cuisine, and reflect on your journey through this enchanting island.
Itinerary
Prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka, where bustling cities, verdant hills, and a treasure trove of heritage await!
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, you will be greeted by your local guide and transferred to the coastal town of Negombo, just 30 minutes away. After checking in to your beachfront hotel, the rest of the day is yours to relax and unwind.
Overnight in Negombo
After breakfast, begin your exploration of Negombo, a city rich in colonial history and local culture. Visit the Dutch Canal, the bustling local fish market, and St. Mary's Church, one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, you have the option of taking a peaceful boat ride through the Muthurajawela wetlands, known for their biodiversity and birdlife. Return to your hotel for a relaxed evening.
Overnight in Negombo
Depart Negombo after breakfast and begin your journey inland towards Habarana, located in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. On the way, stop to explore the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, a stunning complex of cave shrines filled with centuries-old Buddha statues and vivid murals. Arrive in Habarana by late afternoon, where you’ll check into your resort nestled in a peaceful jungle setting. Enjoy dinner and an optional nature walk or Ayurvedic spa treatment.
Overnight in Habarana
The day starts early with breakfast, followed by a 30-minute drive to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll spend about an hour and a half climbing the rock’s steps (moderate effort) to explore ancient ruins and enjoy panoramic views, or, if you prefer, wander the scenic gardens and moats below. After descending, head to a nearby restaurant for a hearty (Optional lunch) featuring local rice and curry. In the afternoon, drive one hour to Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO site and ancient capital, where a guided bike tour (around an hour and a half) takes you through highlights like the Royal Palace, intricately carved stupas, and the serene Gal Vihara statues. The leisurely pace of the bike ride keeps things manageable. You’ll return to Habarana, an hour’s drive, for a relaxing evening and (Optional dinner) at the hotel.
Overnight in Habarana
After breakfast, you’ll depart Habarana for a 2.5-hour drive to Kandy, the cultural capital nestled in the hills. En route, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple, just 30 minutes from Habarana, where you’ll spend an hour exploring five ancient caves adorned with Buddhist murals and over 150 statues, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On arrival in Kandy, check into your hotel and take a short break. Later in the afternoon, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most revered sites in Buddhism. End the day with a vibrant cultural dance performance featuring traditional Kandyan drumming and fire dancing.
Overnight in Kandy
This morning after breakfast, travel from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, a charming hill station known for its cool climate and colonial charm. As you ascend into the central highlands, pass through scenic landscapes dotted with waterfalls and tea plantations. Stop to tour a working tea factory and learn how Ceylon tea is produced. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a brief sightseeing tour including Gregory Lake and old British architecture. Spend the night in a cozy mountain hotel.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
After an early breakfast, you’ll catch a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya (near Nuwara Eliya) to Ella, a 2.5-hour journey through misty hills and tea plantations, booked in advance for the observation car’s panoramic views. Your driver will meet you in Ella for the 4.5-hour drive (200 km) to Bentota, a coastal paradise. On arrival, check in to your beachfront resort and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Watch the sunset from the shore or relax by the pool after the long journey.
Overnight in Bentota
Following breakfast, embark on a 1.5-hour Madu River boat safari, a 20-minute drive from your resort, gliding through tranquil mangroves, past cinnamon islands, and spotting wildlife like monitor lizards and birds. Return to Bentota for (Optional lunch). In the afternoon, visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a 30-minute drive away, where a one-hour tour introduces you to Sri Lanka’s Sea turtle conservation efforts, including a chance to see baby turtles. Back at the resort/hotel, spend the rest of the day indulging in leisure time or opt for a spa treatment, swim in the pool, or relax on the beach.
Overnight in Bentota
In the morning, depart Bentota for Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial capital. Upon arrival, embark on a guided city tour covering landmarks such as Independence Square, Galle Face Green, the Gangaramaya Temple, and the historic Fort area. There will be time for shopping at local boutiques or enjoying a seaside drink at the iconic Galle Face Hotel. Spend your final night in a comfortable city hotel, reflecting on your journey across Sri Lanka.
Overnight in Colombo
After breakfast at your hotel, depending on your flight schedule, you’ll be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure.
INCLUSIONS
- 09 Night's accommodation in TWN/DBL sharing basis at listed hotels or similar
- Daily Breakfast
- Arrival and Departure Airport Transfers
- Transportation in Deluxe Tourist Vehicle
- All transfers and sightseeing as per the itinerary
- Services of English-speaking driver & guide
- International return airfare ex-Los Angeles (Please check with us for pricing from other cities)
- All taxes and surcharges
- All local applicable taxes
EXCLUSIONS
- All other meals
- All other sightseeing or services
- Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, drivers
- Visa fee
- Travel Insurance
- Personal expenses such as alcoholic and other beverages, telephone calls, and laundry
Gallery
Payment Policy & Insurance
Deposit: US$ 300 per person [Non-refundable / Non-transferrable]
50% Deposit: 140 Days prior departure
Full Balance: 90 Days prior to departure
(Once the deposit is paid, the travelers can then pay any amount on any date. Travelers to ensure that the payment deadlines are met as above)
Insurance Policy
We encourage everyone who books a VOYAGES HUB TOURS package, regardless of age or tour choice, to obtain a travel protection plan. While you intend to take that once-in-a-lifetime trip, illness, family emergencies, and other factors can derail your best-laid plans.
VOYAGES HUB TOURS has partnered with Trip Mate for U.S. residents to offer a Travel Protection Plan, which includes insurance benefits and non-insurance travel assistance services. This plan includes trip cancellation, trip interruption, emergency medical evacuation and repatriation, accident and sickness medical expenses (COVID-19 is covered the same as any other sickness), baggage and personal effects baggage delay, and travel delay coverage. It also includes non-insurance travel assistance services provided by Generali Global Assistance's 24-hour, 365 days a year.
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Cancellation Policy
- From the date of booking to 145 days before departure: $300 per person Non-Refundable / Non-transferrable Deposit + interruption insurance cost (if purchased)
- 144-120 days before departure: 50% of the cost per person
- 119- 60 days before departure: 80% of the cost per person
- 59 days or fewer before departure: No refund is available.
Note:
A person becoming single because of the roommate’s cancellation must pay the single supplement
All payment cut-off dates are firm, and missing deadlines without approved extensions will result in cancellations without refunds being offered.
PLEASE NOTE
Voyages Hub reserves the right to levy a surcharge commensurate to the fuel increase at the time of operation of this movement.
REVIEW
From Colombo to Bentota, this trip was unforgettable! The mix of cultural landmarks like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa with natural experiences like the Madu River safari made every day exciting. The train from Nuwara Eliya to Ella was a highlight—the views were incredible, and the observation car was a treat. Our hotels were consistently lovely, with the resorts in Habarana and Bentota being particularly relaxing. We felt well taken care of by our guide and driver—they were knowledgeable, friendly, and made the journey smooth. If you want a well-rounded Sri Lankan adventure that’s not too rushed, this is the trip to book
This tour exceeded our expectations! Each destination offered something different—Habarana’s jungle resort was serene, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth was mesmerizing, and the train ride to Ella might have been the most scenic ride we’ve ever taken. We also appreciated the small touches, like optional spa treatments and leisurely afternoons in Bentota to recharge. Food was delicious throughout, especially trying the local curries at small roadside restaurants. The guides were excellent, making sure we saw the best spots while keeping the pace comfortable. Perfect balance of sightseeing and downtime—highly recommend for North Americans traveling to Sri Lanka for the first time!"
Absolutely incredible experience from start to finish! Sri Lanka is breathtaking, and this itinerary hits all the highlights without feeling rushed. We loved starting in Negombo and exploring the Dutch Canal and local fish market—it gave us a real feel for everyday life. Climbing Sigiriya Rock was a bit of a workout, but the views were worth every step. The bike tour in Polonnaruwa was so unique and a fun way to see the ancient ruins. Ending the trip with relaxation in Bentota was perfect—the beaches were pristine and the turtle hatchery visit was unforgettable. Our guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and made everything seamless. Highly recommend this trip to anyone wanting a mix of culture, adventure, and relaxation!