13-Nights Sri Lanka Encompassed - Classic from $1,679

Itinerary Details

G Adventures: Sri Lanka Encompassed

Day 1: Colombo
Arrive at any time.
There are no planned activities until an evening welcome meeting.

Day 2: Colombo/Negombo
Enjoy a guided city tour of Colombo before heading to Negombo. With evening free time, explore the stunning Portuguese and Dutch architecture.


Day 3: Negombo/Sigiriya
Begin the day visiting the seaside and observe fisherman sorting through their haul ashore. Board a boat to glide along the Dutch canal and get a closer look at the lives of the locals. Travel to the Dambulla province and visit the cave temple before watching the sun set over the lake.
Travel through the countryside to Sigiriya in Dambulla, the central province of Sri Lanka. Visit the the World Heritage Site of the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla.In the evening, try to catch a beautiful sunset over the Kandalamma Lake.

Day 4: Sigiriya
Guided tour of the rock fortress of Sigiriya — a World Heritage site. Meet locals and share a meal in a nearby village.
Enjoy a walking tour of a local village to learn about residents' way of life while getting a chance to try the local cuisine at a lunch prepared by the families of the community. Later, visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Built in the fifth century, this rock fortress boasts well-laid out gardens, caves, monasteries, and palaces with beautiful wall motifs. In the afternoon, opt to go for a tour of Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, where you can cycle through the ruins.

Day 5: Sigiriya/Kandy
Drive through the Knuckles Mountain Range and visit a spice plantation en route to Kandy. Stop for lunch at G Adventures supported-Sthree Craft Shop and Cafe. Take a guided visit to the famous Temple of the Tooth.
En route to Kandy, stop at the herbal centre of spices. Students of Ayurveda will explain different uses for each herb.Arrive to Kandy in the afternoon. Go for a stroll around Kandy Lake and visit the famed Temple of the Tooth. Enjoy an included lunch at G Adventures supported-Sthree Craft Shop and Cafe. In the evening, opt to attend a Kandyan Cultural Dance.

Day 6: Kandy/Digana
Enjoy a free morning in Kandy then travel to Digana. Arrive at the nature resort for lunch before embarking on a guided village walk. Stop at the home of a jewellery maker who handcrafts delicate Kandyan jewellery and the cottage of a local woman making incense. Learn to make Sri Lankan bread or sweets while helping out with dinner.
Accommodations at a nature resort homestay are simple and authentic. Rooming will be in twin and triple-share rooms.

Day 7: Digana/Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy a free morning of exploration before transferring to Nuwara Eliya. In the afternoon, explore a traditional tea plantation in the central highlands. Gain insight into the process of growing tea and its effect on the Ceylon region.
The town, also known as 'Little England', offers a lot of options for visitors. Explore the nature trails, visit the plantations, or go golfing or horseback riding.

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya/Ella
Spend a free morning hiking in the Horton Plains Nature Reserve or strolling local markets. Later, hop on the local train and take the scenic route to Ella.
Use free time to explore the area. Opt to stay close to the city, wandering local markets or head further afield. There's a 9km (6 mi) trek in the Horton Plains Nature Reserve. Wander around Victoria Lake and take in the views.

Day 9: Ella
Enjoy a free day in the charming town of Ella. Opt to tour the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, admire views of Ella Rock, or simply relax and wander around town.


Day 10: Ella/Yala National Park
Opt to hike Little Adam's Peak with a free morning. In the afternoon, travel to Yala National Park and enjoy a safari.


Day 11: Yala National Park to Mirissa
Enjoy one last morning visiting Yala NP then bid farewell and travel south to idyllic Mirissa Beach.


Day 12: Galle
Take a day trip to Galle and tour the colonial city and historic fort before returning to Mirissa.


Day 13: Mirissa
Enjoy a free day in peaceful Mirissa. Opt to relax on the beach or take a surfing lesson.


Day 14: Mirissa
Depart at any time.