Sri Lanka In Depth - Private Tour

15 days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
View all 19 photos
4.6/5 Excellent
100+ reviews  
98%
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
premier

Health Safety +

Cancellation Policy
Small Group Tour
This two week exploration of spiritual Sri Lanka features a mix of ancient cities, rock carvings, gilded Buddhist temples and wildlife-filled national parks. It's a busy trip, but with time to relax both at the beach and in the hills, you'll uncover the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' at your own pace. National Parks - Enjoy a jeep safari in search of leopard,...

Overview

Trip type
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Highlights

    • Travel with a partner, friend or private group at a time that suits you
    • Discover the Sri Lanka wonderful variety of ancient cities and wildlife-filled national parks
    • Enjoy the serene Hill Country and relax on the white sands of Unawatuna

What's this trip about?

    This two week exploration of spiritual Sri Lanka features a mix of ancient cities, rock carvings, gilded Buddhist temples and wildlife-filled national parks. It's a busy trip, but with time to relax both at the beach and in the hills, you'll uncover the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' at your own pace. National Parks - Enjoy a jeep safari in search of leopard, elephant, sambar deer and other wildlife Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Sigiriya - Wander through ancient capitals, painted cave temples and climb the dramatic 'Sky Fortress' Kandy and the Hill Country - Explore the 'Temple of the Tooth' and the lush tea plantations in cooler climates.

Details

Itinerary focusClassic Highlights
Group sizePrivate - your group only
Age range30 years and up
Flights and transportAll internal ground transport included
Start CityNegombo
End CityColombo

Travel Themes

  • Cultural
  • Hiking & Walking
  • Nature & Wildlife

Destinations

  • Asia
  • Sri Lanka

Attractions

  • Negombo

Activities

  • Bird watching
  • Canoeing
  • Caving
  • Culture
  • Hiking
  • History
  • Mountaineering
  • Nature
  • Photography
  • Relaxing Retreat
  • Ruins & Archaeology
  • Safari
  • Swimming
  • Trains & Rail
  • Trekking
  • Whale watching
  • Wildlife viewing
  • Golfing

Popular Trips

Itinerary

Travel Map

Day 1 Trip begins in Negombo

Arrive in Negombo, the famous coastal town famous for its fishing industry and golden sands. This relaxing beach resort is a short distance from Sri Lanka's capital city, and is the perfect place to spot locals bringing in the day's catch and watch the sunset. Y...

Meals Provided :
None

Day 2 Jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park; Drive to Anuradhapura

You'll be with the same guide from start to finish on this trip, so get comfy in the vehicle for your first drive today - three hours north to Wilpattu National Park. En route, visit a nearby fishing village which uses traditional-style outrigger canoes, known as 'oru...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 3 Full day to explore the ancient citadel and Mihintale

Travel eight miles this morning to the mountain peak of Mihintale. It is believed that this was the site of a momentous meeting between the monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa, introducing Buddhism to the country. Exploring Mihintale involves climbing a flight of 1...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 4 Visit Dambulla's cave temples en route to Giritale

Travelling towards Giritale this normally 2.5 hour drive will take most of the day, as you take several important stops en route. First, pause to view the magnificent Standing Buddha of Aukana, which stands 12 metres high. Sculptured in the 5th century by a master cra...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast & Lunch

Day 5 Visit Polonnaruwa and drive to Sigiriya

This morning, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which reached its height of glory in the 12th century when it was a thriving commercial and religious centre. The city still maintains many of its spectacular buildings and monuments, with arguably the most impres...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 6 In Sigiriya; drive to Kandy

An early start this morning to climb Sigiriya Rock ahead of the crowds and whilst it is cool. The ruins of this 5th century 'Sky Fortress' are one of Sri Lanka's major attractions, a stupendous sight to behold and a feat of consummate engineering skill. Built in just ...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 7 Discover the Temple of the Tooth

Sitting on a plateau 500 metres above sea level and 112km northeast of Colombo, Kandy is, in climatic and cultural terms, a world apart from Colombo. Serving as the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom until falling to the British in 1815, it is a place of cultural a...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 8 Drive through the Hill Country to Nuwara Eliya

This morning, set off on a journey into the heart of the Hill Country. This magnificent region of Sri Lanka is an important tea growing area. Plantations stretch over rolling hills for as far as the eye can see, interspersed with the occasional tea-making factory. The...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 9 Take a walk on Horton Plains or explore Nuwara Eliya

You'll have the option to do a trek on Horton Plains today. This unique and beautiful plateau of wild grassland and thick forest is famous for its biodiversity, with many plant and bird species exclusive to this area. During the walk, take in the thundering noise of B...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 10 Drive to the hill town of Ella

This morning, make your way to the hill town of Ella. You'll be driving through impressive scenery of lush tea plantations, where colourfully-dressed tea pickers will be working in groups, and past gushing waterfalls. If seats are available, you have the option to tra...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 11 Drive to Udawalawe, explore the National Park by Jeep and visit the elephant transit home

This morning, visit Ravana Ella Falls, one of the widest waterfalls on the island, before continuing south through the hill country to reach the plains and the small town of Wellawaya. Travelling onwards to Udawalawe National Park, it's difficult not to spot the 51 fo...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12 Stroll through the Portuguese Fort at Galle

Continuing southwards this morning, descend through a huge region of rice paddies before reaching the coast. Travel through the small fishing port of Tangalle, home to a project supported by the Travel Foundation, where women learn to make traditional Beeralu Lace. S...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 13 Free time to relax on Unawatuna's quiet beaches; whale watching, in season

Today is free to relax on the beaches of Unawatuna, or explore more of nearby Galle. For those seeking pure relaxation, local Ayurvedic massages with natural, aromatic herbal oils are highly recommended. Alternatively, between the months of December and April, you might prefer to go on a whale watching trip in the hope of spotting humpback and blue whales.

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 14 Early morning to relax on the beach before driving to Colombo

Take some time to soak up the last few hours on the beach before journeying back to Colombo for your last night- a total travel time of just a couple of hours. Spend the afternoon exploring Sri Lanka's capital city with your driver-guide. Wander around the historical ...

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Day 15 Trip ends in Colombo

Your trip ends today, and you will be taken to the airport to meet your international flight. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Colombo's Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) at any time - it's approximately one hour from the hotel. If your flight is departing later in the day, luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel.

Meals Provided :
Breakfast

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip

Dates & Availability

Price From $2,930
Price per day$195
Last Updated: 4/10/2024

Check Current Availability, prices, specials with Explore!.

The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.

Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.

Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Explore! Reviews & Ratings

4.6/5  Excellent
Excellent
7,391
Great
2,460
Average
404
Disappointing
126
Terrible
60
J

Jane

Aug 2020

Written on

I was worried about travelling to SriLanka

I was worried about travelling to SriLanka in wake of the bombings last year but...

J

Jane

Aug 2020

Written on

Incredibly safe.

I was worried about travelling to Sri Lanka in wake of the bombings last year bu...

L

Lizzie

Mar 2020

Written on

I had an amazing time!

This trip was a make or break trip for me with Explore, after a couple of poor quality trips previously. It was a make-I had an amazing time! The bikes were much be...

L

Lizzie

Mar 2020

Written on

This trip was a make or break

This trip was a make or break trip for me with Explore, after a couple of poor quality trips previously. It was a make-I had an amazing time! The bikes were much be...

P

Peter

Nov 2018

Written on

Great trip

Great trip with some good challenges

Write a Review

Other Explore! Reviews

S

Sarah

Jun 2024

Written on

Levada Trails of Madeira

Love love loved our trip to Madeira. Phillipe the guide was excellent; very personable, knowledgeable, passionate about his island, helpful and fun! 10 out of 10. Th...

G

Gary

Jun 2024

Written on

Galapagos - Central & West Islands aboard the Treasure

Beware that you need a wet suite to snorkel and the charge is $65. In my opinion this is a rip off as without you would struggle to be in the water for very long. Al...

T

Trusted Customer

Jun 2024

Written on

Active Turkey!

I enjoyed the trip very much, surprising myself being able to manage the canoeing and the kayaking. I ducked out of the cycling as too much injury potential at my ag...

Write a Review

Travelers also viewed

Tour Operator

Explore!

premier
View Profile

About Explore

We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.


Why we love this operator
They explore a place beyond the typical tourist traps and offer exciting activities that bring the “wow factor” intrepid travelers want.
What they’re known for
Famous for our expert local guides that help ease the unknowns of adventure travel while bringing a unique richness and spontaneity to each and every

About Travelstride

Find your perfect trip

An epic selection of pre-planned trips on every continent, for every style. Thousands of itineraries from over 1,000 trusted travel companies.

Save time

Use simple search and comparison tools to easily find the best trip. Don't sweat the logistics — travel providers plan for you.

Save money

Book directly with the operator. See inclusive packages for the best values, and get access to amazing deals.

Travel confidently

Read unbiased user reviews, pick the operator that suits your needs, and connect with them directly.

Logistics

Transportation & Flights

4WD, Car,

Transportation & flights

4WD, Car
Guides
Driver(s), Local Guide(s), Safari Guide(s)
Cancellation policy
These conditions are applicable to Discovery & Wildlife, Cycling, Walking and Family Trips. These conditions were updated November 2022. Booked a Polar trip? Please refer to our Polar booking conditions. To make it easy to know the detail of our flexibility, we’ve put it in a grid (these terms apply to all trips apart from our Polar Voyages.) Standard cancellations or changes within 69 days of travel If you’re getting closer to your trip, cancellation charges will apply as follows: For trips confirmed by 31st December 2022: 59-42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100% For trips confirmed from 1st January 2023: 69 -42 days before trip start date – 30%, or loss of deposit if higher 41-28 days before trip start date – 60% 27-14 days before trip start date – 90% Less than 14 days before trip start date – 100%
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance alongside your travel package to safeguard against unforeseen circumstances such as medical expenses, trip cancellations, and other contingencies. It offers you peace of mind and ensures you are prepared for unexpected events that may occur before or during your journey
Visa requirements
All foreign nationals who intend to visit Sri Lanka for a short stay of up to six months, including transit passengers, must apply for travel authorization online prior to travel to the country. All UK, EU, US, Australian, New Zealand and Canadian nationals can obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for a fee of 35USD. To do so you must visit http://www.eta.gov.lk and apply for it prior to travel. It is strongly recommended that you print and bring a copy of the ETA approval notice with you. The Sri Lankan authorities require that your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after departure from Sri Lanka. All visa information is subject to change. You should confirm all visa related issues with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
Health & Safety
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against malaria, tetanus, typhoid, hepatitis A plus Polio and diptheria. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. We strongly recommend the wearing long sleeved shirts and the liberal application of insect repellents containing DEET as a precautionary measure to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes. These precautions should be taken at all times as the mosquitoes are also active during daylight hours. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at <a href="https://www.explore.co.uk/essential-information/know-before-you-go/travel-health">Explore Travel Health</a> and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast : 14
  • Dinner : 1
  • Lunch : 1
Age Requirements
30 years and up
Additional Information
Trip ID
explore-PTSL

Become a member

(it's free)
  • Save up to $700 per person
  • Access members-only specials
  • Personalize trip recommendations
Sign up and save

Popular Trips

Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!