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Sri Lanka • 12 Days / 11 Nights

12 Days Sri Lanka Highlights Tour

Start: Colombo Airport (CMB)
End: Colombo Airport (CMB)
Price: From $1,490 per person
Overview

Discover the Journey

Embark on an unforgettable 12-day journey across Sri Lanka, curated by Nomadic Ventures. This classic itinerary takes you from the beautiful historic canals of Negombo to the sacred ancient cities of Anuradhapura, the vibrant and untouched landscapes of northern Jaffna, the iconic Sigiriya rock fortress in the cultural triangle, the lush green hills of Kandy, the stunning high-elevation tea factories of Nuwara Eliya, and down to the dry-zone leopard sanctuaries of Yala and historic ramparts of Galle.

Tour Summary

  • Country: Sri Lanka
  • Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
  • Start Location: Colombo Airport (CMB)
  • End Location: Colombo Airport (CMB)
  • Price Option: From $1,490 per person
Itinerary

Day-by-Day Program

DAY 01

AIRPORT – NEGOMBO

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, please proceed through immigration and luggage collection. Once you exit into the arrival lounge, a friendly Nomadic Ventures airport representative will be waiting to welcome you, holding a signboard with your name.

You will then be transferred to a hotel in Negombo. Check in to the hotel.

Evening Negombo City Tour - Discover the charm of Negombo, a coastal gem just north of Colombo, known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic beauty. This captivating destination offers a unique blend of colonial heritage and local traditions. Explore the lively fish market, admire the stunning architecture of St. Mary’s Church, and unwind on serene, sun-kissed beaches. The tour includes a visit to the 17th-century Dutch Fort and the tranquil Negombo Lagoon, offering a perfect balance of history, nature, and everyday life. Ideal for travelers seeking a culturally enriching and relaxing experience, Negombo promises memorable encounters and timeless charm in every corner.

Return back to the hotel. Overnight stay at the hotel in Negombo.

DAY 02

NEGOMBO – ANURADHAPURA

Breakfast at the hotel.

Early Morning Negombo Fish Market Visit
Experience the lively Negombo Fish Market at sunrise, where fishermen bring in the day’s fresh catch straight from the ocean. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of local trading, traditional fishing practices, and colorful displays of seafood—an authentic glimpse into coastal life and a great photo opportunity.

Depart to Anuradhapura.

Visit Ruwanweli Maha Seya, Isurumuniya, and Sri Maha Bodhiya - The Ruwanweli Maha Seya, also known as the swarnamali maha seya, is a stupa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. Two quarts or one Dona of the Buddha's relics are enshrined in the stupa, making it the largest collection of his relics anywhere. Isurumuniya is a Buddhist temple situated near to the Tissa Wewa in Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka. There are four carvings of special interest in this Vihara. They are the Isurumuniya Lovers, Elephant Pond and The Royal Family. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi is a historical sacred bo tree in the Mahamewuna Garden in historical city of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Anuradhapura.
DAY 03

ANURADHAPURA – JAFFNA

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Jaffna, the northernmost tip of the island.

Enroute stop at Elephant Pass War Memorial, which is a poignant tribute located at the strategic Elephant Pass, the narrow land bridge connecting the Jaffna Peninsula to the rest of Sri Lanka. This site commemorates the soldiers of the Sri Lankan armed forces who sacrificed their lives during the decades-long civil conflict, particularly during the fierce battles that took place in this area.

Check in to the hotel.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Jaffna.
DAY 04

JAFFNA

Breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, visit Nagapushani Amman Kovil and Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya in Nainativu.
Transfer from your hotel to Kurikadduwan Jetty by vehicle. Once you arrive at the Jetty take the ferry from Kurikadduwan Jetty to Nainativu Island (approx. 15-20 minutes). Walk from the ferry terminal to the temples.

Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya is a Buddhist Temple, which is one of the 16 places in Sri Lanka visited by Gautama Buddha. Mahavamsa chronicles state he visited Nainativu to settle a dispute between two Naga kings.

Nagapushani Amman Kovil is a Hindu Temple, one of the Shakthi Peethas, sacred sites in Hinduism.

Explore Jaffna Fort, it is one of Sri Lanka's most significant colonial-era forts, reflecting centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. It has played a vital role in military defense, administration, and trade, and even witnessed major battles during the Sri Lankan Civil War.

Note & Tips
During the evening (between 4:00pm to 8:00pm), visit Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil is one of the most significant and revered Hindu temples in Sri Lanka, dedicated to Lord Murugan. This temple is a symbol of Tamil Hindu culture, devotion, and resilience. The temple hosts one of the grandest Hindu festivals in Sri Lanka, the Nallur Festival, which lasts for 25 days in July to August. Tip – Men: No t-shirts and shirts inside the temple | Women: Modest clothing (no short skirts). Stop at RIO for an Ice Cream, known as the Iconic Ice Cream Spot in Jaffna, famous for its delicious, creamy, and colorful ice creams.
DAY 05

JAFFNA – HABARANA

Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart to Habarana.

Arrive in Habarana and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple - Step into the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved rock temple. Marvel at centuries-old Buddha statues, vibrant murals, and sacred chambers carved into the golden rock. A must-visit destination for history, culture, and breathtaking photography.

Check in to the hotel.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Habarana.
DAY 06

HABARANA – SIGIRIYA – LOCAL VILLAGE TOUR – HABARANA

Breakfast at the hotel.

In the morning, embark on an exciting climb up the Sigiriya Lion Rock, is a large stone and ancient rock fortress and palace ruin in the central Dambulla of Sri Lanka, surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs, and other structures. A popular tourist destination, Sigiriya is also renowned for its ancient paintings (frescos) which are reminiscent of the Ajanta Caves of India. It is one of the seven World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. It is also declared by UNESCO as the 8th Wonder of the World.

In the afternoon, experience the charm of rural Sri Lanka with a relaxing catamaran and boat ride on serene waters. Savor an authentic local lunch, then stroll through a traditional village, exploring vegetable fields and visiting a village home. Immerse yourself in the warmth, simplicity, and everyday rhythms of village life for a truly authentic cultural experience.

Note & Tips
Optional - Minneriya Jeep Safari. These national parks in Habarana are the best places in the country to see wild elephants, which are often present in huge numbers. Good to know: Elephants are moving to one of those national parks. Therefore, we will select the best park to see more elephants, evening time would be ideal.
DAY 07

HABARANA – KANDY

Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart for Kandy.

En route, visit the Matale Spice Garden, famous for its spices. From early trading days, Sri Lanka was known as the “Spice Island.” Most spices are used to enhance curry flavors, and some are also used in herbal medicine. Many spices have rich aromas that stimulate the appetite.

Arrive in Kandy and visit the Temple of the tooth. Discover Sri Lanka’s most sacred cultural landmark, the Temple of the Tooth Relic, nestled in the heart of Kandy. This stunning lakeside temple blends rich history, vibrant traditions, and exquisite Kandyan architecture. Experience the serene atmosphere, witness centuries-old rituals, and explore a UNESCO World Heritage site that continues to inspire devotion and wonder.

Thereafter, take a Kandy city tour and discover the charm of the city the local way—on foot and by car! Stroll around the beautiful Kandy Lake, explore lively markets, pass historic landmarks, and take in stunning hilltop views. This immersive city tour brings you closer to Kandy’s culture, colors, and everyday life, offering a truly unforgettable taste of Sri Lanka’s hill capital.

Enjoy an evening with the best Kandyan cultural dance show in Sri Lanka.
Check in to the hotel.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Kandy.
DAY 08

KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA – HAPUTALE

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Nanu Oya.

En route visit the tea plantation & tea factory. Sri Lanka is home to the world’s finest Ceylon Tea, globally renowned for its rich flavor and bright golden hue—unmatched in quality. During your visit, you’ll gain insight into the true art of cultivating and producing this beloved brew, from the tender tea leaf to the final cup.

Note & Tips
Optional - Take a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Haputale. Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is a unique experience. The railway track stretches across scenic hill country, magically untouched countryside. The train still runs on the legendary route built in the 19th century. Good to know: Please be aware that train travel is done with a simple local train which is less comfortable than you might be used to.
DAY 09

HAPUTALE – TISSAMAHARAMA

Breakfast at the hotel.

Depart to Yala.

Check in to the hotel.

Evening enjoy an exciting Jeep Safari in Yala National Park, the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka, lies in the island’s Southeast, where dry, semi-arid landscapes meet the Indian Ocean. Home to 44 species of mammals and one of the highest leopard densities in the world, Yala is famous for sightings of the majestic Sri Lankan elephant and the elusive leopard.

Return back to the hotel.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Tissamaharama.
DAY 10

TISSAMAHARAMA – GALLE

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to Galle.

Enroute visit The Stilt Fisherman, which showcases traditional Sri Lankan fishing techniques. Watch skilled fishermen balance on slender poles planted in the shallow waters, using age-old methods to catch fish. This unique cultural experience offers a glimpse into a centuries-old practice against a stunning coastal backdrop.

Enroute Explore Galle Dutch Fort - One of Sri Lanka’s must-see attractions, this ancient citadel is packed with history and charm. Learn how the largest living fort in Asia was built, walk along the ramparts, and take in panoramic views of the fort, harbor, and crystal-clear waters below. Meet descendants from the original merchant families. Experience the island’s fascinating boutiques and museums with colonial antiques to restaurants.

Check in to the hotel.

Relax at the beach.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Galle.
DAY 11

GALLE

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, followed by leisure time to relax and unwind on the surrounding beach.

Note & Tips
Overnight stay at the hotel in Galle.
DAY 12

GALLE – DEPARTURE

Breakfast at the hotel.

Transfer to airport for Departure.

**************** END OF TOUR ****************

Inclusions

What's Included in the Tour

  • Personal airport greeting & transfers in a private AC vehicle
  • Comfortable hotel stays (double room sharing)
  • Daily breakfasts at hotels
  • Negombo Fish Market and City Tour
  • Entrance fees for Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Guided trek up Sigiriya Lion Rock
  • Entrance to Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
  • Tea factory tour and Ceylon tea tasting
  • Exciting Jeep Safari in Yala National Park
  • Galle Dutch Fort exploration walk
Exclusions

Excluded from the Cost

  • International airline tickets
  • Lunches and Dinners (unless specified)
  • Optional Jeep Safari in Minneriya
  • Entrance fees to non-specified attractions
  • Personal expenditures (laundry, tips, beverages)
  • Tips and gratuities for guide and driver
Tailor-Made Holidays

Ready to Start Your Adventure with Nomadic Ventures?

This package is fully customizable. Contact our travel specialists to modify routes, hotel selections, add optional excursions, or construct a brand new holiday to match your budget and specifications.

Nomadic Ventures