Simply Sri Lanka Tour with 1 Review by Intrepid Travel

8 daysDuration

Small Group TourUsually 8-12 participants, maximum 18 travelers

16 peopleMaximum group size

15 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Easy

Light physical activity suitable for most people with average fitness levels.

Starts

Negombo, Sri Lanka

Ends

Colombo, Sri Lanka

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.

Itinerary

Sri Lanka’s dazzling mix of history and landscape awaits on the Simply Sri Lanka tour—a relaxed, eight-day journey ideal for travelers looking to explore at their own pace. Begin in Negombo and wind through cultural gems like Kandy’s Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the ancient rock citadel of Sigiriya, and the playful mangrove forests of Unawatuna.

This city sightseeing trip is designed for independent spirits: with a knowledgeable local leader to guide you and plenty of optional activities, you’re free to tailor your experience to your interests. Soak up the rhythms of daily life, local cuisine, and beautiful beaches, all while enjoying the camaraderie of a small group.

The unique selling point is the tour’s flexibility—letting you discover Sri Lanka’s highlights without a rigid itinerary, all with the support of local expertise. For those who want to see it all but still call the shots, this is the perfect tour package.

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.

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

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.

accommodation:Hotel (1 night)

meals:1 Breakfast

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.

included:Kandy - Temple of the Tooth, Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit

accommodation:

meals:1 Breakfast

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.

included:Kandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunch

accommodation:

meals:1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch

day 5 - Unawatuna/ Galle

Today, you’ll visit a nearby tea factory for a guided tour to learn about the production of Sri Lanka's best-known beverage. Of course, you’ll also sample some of the delicious varieties of locally produced tea while you're here. Later journey south in a private vehicle to Unawatuna (approximately 6 hours). 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 opt to cool off with an icy ginger drink in a cafe, then mosey on back to the beach in Unawatuna for some more chillaxing or grab a cocktail under the shade of a beachside restaurant.

included:Galle - Galle Fort Walking tour, Kandy - Tea factory visit

accommodation:

meals:1 Breakfast

day 6 - Unawatuna

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. Tonight, perhaps grab a cocktail, this fantastic stretch of beach has plenty of local restaurants and bars to relax in.

accommodation:

meals:1 Breakfast

day 7 - Colombo

Leave Unawatuna behind and make the journey 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.

included:Colombo - Guided market visit

accommodation:

meals:1 Breakfast

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.

meals:1 Breakfast

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What's Included

Accommodation

Hotel (7 nights)

Meals

7 Breakfasts, 1 Lunch

Transport

Private vehicle

Guide

An expert tour leader

Included Activities

Kandy - Temple of the ToothSigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress VisitKandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunchGalle - Galle Fort Walking tourKandy - Tea factory visitColombo - Guided market visit

What's Excluded

Customer Reviews

Read what other travelers have to say about Simply Sri Lanka

5.0

based on 1 review

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