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Compare Simply Sri Lanka by Intrepid Travel vs Nature Hug Sri Lanka by Panoramic Tour & Travels

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Duration 8 days 11 days
Price From $ 620 $ 1,808
Price Per Day $ 78 $ 164
Highlights
  • Check out the awe-inspiring Sigiriya (Lion Rock), a 200-metre-high ancient rock fortress that lies smack-bang in the middle of evergreen jungle.
  • Wander through the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth in Kandy, which houses one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relics – a tooth of the Buddha.
  • Get to know the gorgeous beach of Unawatuna, where you can either get active in the surrounding jungle or chill with a cocktail while lying under a palm tree.
  • This tour has the option of a 4WD safari through a park known for its wild elephant population. Seeing these big beauties in the flesh is unforgettable.
  • With these experiences you get local knowledge, decades of on-the-ground operational experience and the freedom and independence to explore at your own pace.
  • Get your hands on cooking Sri Lankan authentic food
  • Ride through a rural village by a bullock cart
  • Witness Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic – a tooth of the Buddha
  • Treat yourself to a night in one of Nuwara Eliya's colonial hotels
  • Walk around the tea estates and see St. Clair’s waterfalls
Trip Style Small group tour Private guided tour
Lodging Level Basic Luxury
Physical Level
  • 2- Easy
  • 3- Moderate
Travel Themes
  • Cultural
  • High Adventure
  • Nature & Wildlife
  • Photography
  • National Parks
Countries Visited
Cities and Attractions
  • Colombo
  • Dambulla
  • Kandy
  • Negombo
  • Sigiriya
  • Negombo
Flights & Transport Ground transport included Ground transport included
Activities N/A
  • Cooking
  • Historic sightseeing
  • History
  • Homestays & Cultural Immersion
  • Kid-friendly activities
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Rock Climbing
  • Wildlife viewing
Meals Included N/A

10 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch and 2 Dinners

Description

Sri Lanka is jam-packed with ancient sites, fascinating cultures, beautiful wilderness and idyllic beaches and this eight-day experience will introduce you to the most memorable. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, climb Lion Rock at Sigiriya, and explore the monkey-filled mangrove forests of Unawatuna. We’ve sorted the nitty gritty so you can focus on soaking up Sri Lanka at your own pace, with plenty of optional activities and the guidance of your local leader to help you out when you’re not sure where to start. Are you an independent traveller who wants to explore Sri Lanka with like-minded people and a local? This is your trip.

This life changing journey begins at the Katunayake Airport and ends at the Katunayake Airport, you will experience a 11-days tour around Sri Lanka. You will get a chance to visit the 8th Wonder of the World, roam around little England, go on a safari ride, beach time and much more. Also enjoy the Sri Lankan traditional food which will definitely awaken your taste buds.

Itinerary: Simply Sri Lanka

Day 1 Negombo

Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, located close to the international airport. You can arrive at any time on Day 1 as there are no activities planned until the important welcome meeting at 5.30 pm. Those arriving early can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft and perhaps feasting on fresh seafood. The beautiful surrounding countryside is best explored on a bicycle, which you can rent with help from the hotel reception.

Day 2 Dambulla

After breakfast, leave Negombo and drive approximately 4.5 hours to Dambulla, arriving just after midday. In the afternoon you may like to relax at the hotel after check-in, or take an optional visit to a nearby wildlife reserve – a jeep safari excursion that takes you into elephant country. Which park is available to visit depends on the season, but both Minneriya and Kaudulla are within easy reach of Dambulla. Another option is the nearby Dambulla Caves with their magnificently decorated interiors.

Day 3 Sigiriya - Kandy

Early this morning, before the heat is too intense, head to Sigiriya (approximately 30 minutes). This ruined fortress is one of Sri Lanka's premier sights. Those who make it to the top are rewarded with astounding views. Make sure you are wearing sturdy footwear, as this is a very steep climb with some uneven slopes. Those unable to climb to the top can explore the gardens at the base of the rock and still get some fantastic shots of the fortress from below. Return to the hotel for breakfast before heading to Kandy (approximately 3 hours). On the way, there's the option of stopping at one of the region's wonderful spice gardens for lunch. In beautifully located Kandy, visit the Dalada Maligawa (aka Temple of the Tooth), Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist site, and mingle with the white-clad pilgrims who come here to worship.

Day 4 Kandy

The morning is yours to explore Kandy, a pleasant city surrounded by lush countryside. It’s home to a picturesque lake, old shops, a bustling market and some great restaurants. It was once the capital under the last Sri Lankan king, and the area managed to resist European control for hundreds of years, long after the coastal areas surrendered. Perhaps walk through the town to take in the sights of Kandy – explore the citadel, or take a nature walk at Udawattakele Sanctuary, close to Kandy, which offers the chance to see flowers, birds and monkeys in 160 acres of tropical rainforest. Regroup for today’s lunch, which is sure to be one to remember! Visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant, a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment to women from local communities while training and empowering them. Here you’ll enjoy some truly delicious Sri Lankan dishes while learning about the important work they do. The rest of the day is free for your own discoveries.

Day 5 Unawatuna

Journey south in a private vehicle to Unawatuna (approximately 6 hours). This fantastic stretch of beach has plenty of local restaurants and bars to relax in. There are no included activities today, so you'll have free time to explore Unawatuna and its surrounds. Perhaps take a walk through the monkey-filled mangrove forest off Galle–Matara road or unwind with an indulgent massage. 

Day 6 Unawatuna

Sleep in, relax on the beach, work on your tan or grab a cocktail under the shade of a beachside restaurant. Feel like something a bit more active? Today is a good opportunity to pop into nearby Galle for some sightseeing. The city is a memorable collection of Dutch-colonial buildings with boutique shops and cafes to visit. Walk around the perimeter of the Galle fort and cool off with an icy ginger drink in a cafe, then mosey on back to the beach for some more chillaxing.

Day 7 Colombo

Leave Unawatuna behind and make the journey to Galle, where you'll jump on a train to Colombo (approximately 4 hours). On arrival in Sri Lanka's capital, head out on a city walk with your leader. On your way, visit local shops and do some sightseeing. If you're lucky enough to be in Colombo on a Saturday, visit Good Market, a local market full of stalls showcasing social enterprises and responsible businesses. Tonight is free, but your leader will suggest an optional group dinner for your final night together.

Day 8 Colombo

Have string hoppers and a super-black coffee for breakfast, then pull your saddest face as our trip comes to an end.

Itinerary: Nature Hug Sri Lanka

Day 1: Ayubowan Sri Lanka (Airport - Colombo)

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Colombo Fort, Galle Buck, Colombo Sri Lanka Welcome to Paradise Island! With a heartwarming greeting our chauffer guide and Panoramic Tour representative will accommodate you at the hotel in Colombo. Depending on your arrival timing hop into the vehicle and go for a city tour, get a chance to visit Viharamahadevi Park, Old Parliament Building and World Trade Center and a walk along the Galle Face Green where you can enjoy some local eats. Get back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 2: Off To Sigiirya (Colombo - Sigiriya)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress, Main Road, Sigiriya 21120 Sri Lanka After morning breakfast off to Sigiriya, one of the most famous destinations in Sri Lanka. En route you can enjoy a village tour in Galewela, get a chance to enjoy a Tuk Tuk ride, bullock and catamaran ride. After an authentic Sri Lankan Lunch with a chilled beer involve yourself in a cooking demonstration, get a chance to learn the local rice and curry and the ancient secret recipe while cooking with the demonstrators. From there continue your journey towards Sigiriya. En route you can visit the Cave Temple at Dambulla the stunning rock temple which was built more than 2000 years back. Check in at the hotel where you can relax in the pool and enjoy a complimentary dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 3: 8TH Wonder of The World (Sigiriya)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress, Main Road, Sigiriya 21120 Sri Lanka Have your early breakfast, put on your hiking shoes, grab your cameras, stuff your bag pack with some snacks and off to climb a series of vertiginous stair cases leading you to the palace garden to explore the secret of Sigiriya rock the hardened lava plug from a vanished volcano and from there proceed to Pidurangala rock which has an interlinked history with the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, get a chance to click on some Instagram worthy pictures. Enjoy your lunch and back to the hotel. If you wish you can enjoy a foot massage at the hotel with a free dinner. 

Day 4: Off To Visit The Temple Of The Tooth (Sigiriya – Kandy

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Kandy View Point, Rajapihilla Mawatha, Kandy 20000 Sri Lanka Today morning we travel to Kandy, a cultural land amongst hills. Check in at the hotel and have your lunch at a recommended restaurant. In the evening visit The Temple of the Tooth Relic which houses the Relic of the Tooth of Lord Buddha. The Temple of the Tooth Relic, the holy city of Kandy is associated with the history of the dissemination of Buddhism. Get a chance to shop around gem shops, batik factory and view the wood carvings. In the evening have a chance to view the Kandyan cultural dance show. Check in at the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 5: Walk By The Lake Gregory (Kandy - Nuwara Eliya)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Nuwara Eliya Golf Course, Grand Hotel Road, Nuwara Eliya 22200 Sri Lanka This morning have your breakfast overlooking the hills and we will be leaving to Nuwara Eliya which is one of the main attractions which is filled with greenery and mist. En route visit the most popular tea factory with a fantastic surrounding and a breath taking view. You can witness the actual process of tea making, learn more about the tea processing and the explanation of various stages of processing and different types of tea, getting a chance to pluck your own tea leaves accompanied by the tea pluckers, Nuwara Eliya is well known destination to produce tea of particularly fine quality. Check in at the hotel then off to enjoy your lunch and go on a city tour where you can visit the Golf Club, Post Office and Victoria Park. In the evening walk by the Gregory Lake and back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 6: Little England (Nuwara Eliya)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Ambewela Farms, Nanuoya Rd, Nuwara Eliya 22200 Sri Lanka Have your breakfast and we are off to Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm which are very much blessed with the cool climate in the hill country. The climatic conditions in Ambewela make it an ideal location for dairy farming, hence the country's only milk powder factory is situated in this area. The two animal husbandries, Ambewela Farm and New Zealand Farm, have Ayrshire cattle and Friesian cows respectively. Thereafter visit World's End which is situated in one of the most famous National Parks the Horton Plains which is one the coldest and windiest destination you can ever find in Sri Lanka. Enjoy your lunch, you can either visit the Seetha Amman Temple or get back to the hotel after a long day.

Day 7: Safari Day Out (Nuwara Eliya – Yala)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Yala National Park, Sri Lanka With a packed early breakfast off to Yala en route have your lunch and check in at the hotel. By 2:30pm off to Yala National Park where get a chance to enjoy a safari ride in the 2nd largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka which contains more than 150 species of wildlife and bird life meanwhile you can see elephants, leopards, peacocks and many other wildlife species during this safari. After the safari enjoy a hoppers night out to taste one of the best Sri Lankan authentic food as per request and back to the hotel for an overnight.

Day 8: Beach Time (Yala-Mirissa)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Mirissa Beach, Mirissa 81740 Sri Lanka Today you will continue your journey towards Mirissa which is also known as the Ocean Giant. Enjoy your lunch and check in at the hotel. You can go on a visit to the Coconut Tree Hill an exclusive cliff situated at the end of a seaside which is sheltered by palm trees, Parrot Rock one of the cool spots in Mirissa is an isolated viewpoint that allows for a magnificent panoramic sight of Mirissa Beach and enjoy the day by the sea. You can capture some Instagram worthy pictures of your day out and enjoy night life in Salt Mirissa where you will find plenty of pubs, have some great drinks and dinner with your feet buried in the sand. Check in at the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 9: It’s Tan Time (Mirissa)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Mirissa Beach, Mirissa 81740 Sri Lanka Have your breakfast and spend your day leisurely while enjoying a sea bath. Have your lunch and in the evening off to Galle Fort which was built by the Portuguese on the South Western coast of Sri Lanka, you can go on a bicycle ride around Galle Fort. Witness the beautiful sunset from Galle Fort as you pedal along a coastal track and outlook attractions such as shipping warehouses, churches, temples, the clock tower and lighthouse, thereafter enjoy your dinner at a famous boutique café and back to the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 10: Off to Negombo (Mirissa - Negombo)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Negombo Beach, Negombo Sri Lanka Today morning you will be leaving to Negombo known as “Little Rome” a traditional fishing center and a major town in the coconut triangle in Sri Lanka. Have your lunch and check in at the hotel. If time permits go shopping in Negombo. Enjoy a seafood dinner and back the hotel for an overnight stay.

Day 11: Goodbye Sri Lanka (Negombo - Airport)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Overnight stay at 4 or 5 star hotel on Bed & Breakfast basis

Stop At: Bandaranaike International Airport, Canada Friendship Rd, 11450, Sri Lanka Today depending on the flight time, you can either relax or check out from the hotel recollecting all your memories until we meet again.

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"All journeys have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware."
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