The Grand Tour of Sri Lanka

Today marks the beginning of your adventure to Sri Lanka. Departing from your chosen airport, you’ll embark on a flight with connecting flights along the way.

Welcome to Sri Lanka, the emerald gem of the Indian Ocean! 

Upon arrival just north of the capital, Colombo, you’ll pass through immigration and head to the baggage claim. In the arrival hall, your guide awaits with a TourCompass sign and a warm Sri Lankan welcome. 

You’ll then be driven to Negombo, a vibrant beach town just a half-hour’s drive from the airport. Here, you’ll find a wide, golden sandy beach where the palm trees sway gently in the breeze and fishing boats drift lazily towards the shore. 

After checking in at your waterfront hotel, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Perhaps a swim in the pool tempts you, or you might find peace in a sun lounger with a sea view, letting the sound of the waves and a good book set a serene start to your tour. 

In the evening, take a leisurely stroll along the beach and, if you’re lucky, behold the sunset’s scarlet hues, complemented by the batik-coloured sails and gently lapping waves, creating a magical close to your first day in Sri Lanka. 

Your day will begin right on the golden sands of Negombo’s beach, before heading northeast to Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle, where you’ll have the chance to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history and cultural heritage.

After a comfortable drive of just over four hours, you’ll reach Anuradhapura, peacefully situated on the banks of the Malwathu Oya River. The city radiates tranquillity and authenticity, and you’ll soon be welcomed by the warmth and friendly smiles that are the hallmark of the local people.

There’s good reason why Anuradhapura is listed as a UNESCO world heritage site – founded over 2,000 years ago, the city remains a living testament to the island’s captivating past. Scattered throughout are countless ancient ruins and historic monuments, which you can look forward to exploring on tomorrow’s excursion.

After checking in at your hotel, the rest of the day is yours to spend as you wish. You might like to immerse yourself in the fascinating history of Anuradhapura, unwind by the refreshing hotel pool, or take a leisurely stroll to Lake Nuwara Wewa where local fishermen can often be seen trying their luck.

While enjoying your breakfast, you can look forward to an exciting day ahead. Today, you’ll get to experience Anuradhapura up close as your guide leads you through Sri Lanka’s ancient capital.

Your tour begins at the legendary Sri Maha Bodhi tree, also known as the Tree of Enlightenment. Here, you’ll feel the powerful atmosphere among Buddhist pilgrims and monks cloaked in orange robes, all gathering to pray and leave offerings at this sacred site. Take your time to absorb the ambiance and embrace the calm and devotion that fills this special place.

Next, you will continue on to explore the city’s monastery ruins and numerous stupas. Among the highlights is the 70-metre-high Jetavanarama Stupa, one of the largest ancient structures in the world, as well as the iconic white Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, believed to house the largest collection of Buddha relics. Here, you’ll gain a rare insight into Buddhist practice, which continues to flourish in Anuradhapura.

Finally, you’ll visit the Abhayagiri Complex, where you can explore the well-preserved Twin Ponds and soak up the tranquillity of the lush greenery in front of the Samadhi Buddha statue, seated in the Dhyana Mudra – the traditional meditation pose. It’s a peaceful spot to pause, allowing your mind to rest as you take in the diverse scents and subtle sounds drifting from temples and the surrounding nature.

After a day filled with rich sensory impressions in Sri Lanka’s spiritual heart, you’ll return to your hotel, with the rest of the afternoon and evening free for you to enjoy as you wish.

Leaving Anuradhapura, you’ll head south towards Sigiriya, home to some of the most remarkable attractions within Sri Lanka’s cultural triangle.

After around an hour and a half’s drive, you’ll arrive at your hotel set among the rural landscapes of Sigiriya. Here, you’ll check in and have a couple of hours to unwind at your own pace before heading out to discover more of Sri Lanka’s exotic wildlife.

Later in the afternoon, your guide will collect you and drive you to Minneriya National Park. In the park’s lush surroundings, you’ll have an excellent chance to encounter Sri Lanka’s wild animals up close. Accompanied by a knowledgeable ranger who knows every corner of the park, you’ll set off on a thrilling three-hour safari in an open jeep, immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the wild.

The landscape of Minneriya is a tapestry of forests, open grasslands, dense thickets, and vital wetlands. You might be lucky enough to spot vibrant birds, playful macaques, curious sambar deer, wild boar, and buffalo, so don’t forget your binoculars and camera.

However, the park is most famous for its elephant herds. During the dry months from June to September, up to 300 elephants gather at the Minneriya reservoir to graze, wallow in the mud, and interact in large family groups—a truly remarkable spectacle you won’t soon forget. Outside this season, you still have a good chance of seeing elephants, though usually in smaller groups scattered throughout the park’s vast expanse.

You’ll then return to your hotel with a host of unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s extraordinary wildlife. The evening is yours to enjoy a delicious meal at the hotel or a nearby restaurant, before settling in for a restful night’s sleep.

Today promises a historical adventure on two wheels in Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest capitals and deservedly listed on the UNESCO world heritage list.

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up and take you to the former royal city, which, after its period of glory, vanished into the lush depths of the jungle and lay hidden for more than 700 years. In the 20th century, however, the city was rediscovered and gradually unearthed from the passage of time.

By the shores of Parakrama Samudraya Lake, you’ll be given a bicycle and helmet, ready to set off on a 12-kilometre route that allows you to experience Polonnaruwa up close, with the wind in your hair. As you cycle, you’ll pass the ruins of the royal palace, the ancient bathing pools, and the famous Gal Vihara temple, where graceful Buddha statues are carved directly into the massive granite rock.

Along the way, you’ll encounter many dome-shaped stupas such as Rankot Vihara, Kiri Vihara Dagoba, and Pabalu Vehera, scattered across the landscape, while the unusual Satmahal Prasada bears a striking resemblance to a Mayan pyramid. You’ll also see the ancient irrigation system, a living testament to King Parakramabahu’s vision that not a single drop of rain should go to waste. This vast system, with its colossal reservoirs and networks of interlinking canals leading to Polonnaruwa, still fascinates visitors today.

After an eventful bike ride, you’ll be driven back to your hotel in Sigiriya, where you might wish to relax by the pool or venture out among the lush green rice paddies, offering a vibrant contrast to the small houses that emerge behind palms and banana trees.

Awaken to the sound of exotic bird calls as you prepare for one of the most spectacular experiences of your tour: Sri Lanka’s iconic Lion Rock, Sigiriya. 

During the short drive, catch sight of the majestic rock, which rises a towering 200 metres above the surrounding landscape. Considered one of Sri Lanka’s most significant archaeological sites, Sigiriya is also included on the UNESCO world heritage list. If you’ve a passion for history, your guide can regale you with tales of its origins, which are steeped in family drama involving King Kashyapa who reigned in the 5th century. 

Once at Lion Rock, you’ll begin your ascent up the 1,202 steps, reaching the summit in roughly an hour. We recommend a leisurely pace with frequent breaks to appreciate the rock’s impressive architecture. On your way up, you’ll pass vibrant frescoes and what remains of a mirror wall where King Kashyapa once admired his reflection. At the entrance to his former palace, two enormous lion’s paws greet you, remnants of a once-giant lion, giving Lion Rock its name. 

On the flat summit, an unforgettable experience awaits. Here, you can marvel at the breathtaking views over the ancient palace ruins with moats, water features, and lush gardens. A vast sea of green jungle, mountains, and villages stretches to the horizon, with Pidurangala Rock visible in the distance. 

Take your time to soak up the surroundings before making your way down, ready to travel southwards to one of Sri Lanka’s most awe-inspiring and sacred sites: the Dambulla Cave Temple.

After roughly three hours of driving, discover one of Sri Lanka’s most impressive and sacred sites: the Dambulla Cave Temple. Established by King Valagamba in the first century BC, it is listed on the UNESCO world heritage list for its invaluable historical and cultural significance. 

Nestled in lush surroundings, the temple is built into a large, towering rock. Inside, explore the remarkable cave complex with over 150 Buddha statues, paintings, and figures of both kings and gods. The murals, spanning more than 2,000 square metres, are among the country’s most well-preserved, depicting vibrant tales from the world of Buddhism. 

After checking in, the evening is yours to explore Kandy, and when hunger strikes, you can indulge in the city’s impressive dining scene. Your guide is happy to help you find a favourite among the numerous restaurants offering everything from Sri Lankan classics like kottu roti to international staples. 

Today, no excursions are planned, giving you the opportunity to decide what suits you best before your tour continues. 

Let the impressions of the past days settle as you relax by the hotel’s inviting pool, or set out for new adventures on your own. 

Should you seek relaxation, settle beside Kandy’s mirror-like lake, observing everyday life in Sri Lanka’s second-largest city. From here, you also have views of the mighty Buddha statue at Bahirawakanda Temple, the city’s highest landmark. Alternatively, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, a well-kept tranquil oasis with over 4,000 plant species to admire along the beautifully maintained paths. 

In the late afternoon, it’s worth visiting the Temple of the Tooth to witness Buddhism up close. This sacred temple is a significant reason Kandy is part of the UNESCO world heritage and it is reputed to house one of Buddha’s teeth. This relic, supposedly smuggled from India to Sri Lanka in 1590, is kept in a gold casket. If you’ve pre-bought tickets, continue to a nearby cultural centre to enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance show featuring fire, drums, and vibrant costumes. 

As night falls, settle into one of the city’s hilltop restaurants with views over the valley and surrounding mountains. Enjoy your evening meal as Kandy basks in the beautiful evening light. 

After breakfast, your guide will pick you up for a drive to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s highest city, also known as Little England. 

The drive takes approximately 3-4 hours, winding through the picturesque highlands flanked by tea plantations and valleys. There will be occasional photo stops along the way, allowing you to capture the beautiful scenery with green tea plantations, mist-covered mountain peaks, and small villages.  

Upon reaching Nuwara Eliya at an elevation of 1,868 metres, you will immediately feel the refreshingly cooler air. Around you stand fine English houses with meticulously arranged rose gardens, a testament to the colonial influence.  

One of the city’s iconic houses is the Grand Hotel, dating back to 1891 and originally the residence for the British governor. Here, you will be treated to High Tea British-style, where you can relax and soak in the historic atmosphere, with tea from the surrounding plantations served in fine porcelain cups. Accompanying the tea are small sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and sweet cakes in true colonial style, evoking memories of a bygone era. 

You’ll then head to your hotel to check in to its beautiful colonial surroundings. If you’re in the mood to discover more of the town, you could visit Victoria Park, well-known for its colourful flowers and birdlife, or Gregory Park, which is picturesquely nestled by the lake of the same name.

Later in the morning, you’ll be collected by your guide and driven to the railway station in Nanu Oya, just outside Nuwara Eliya, where one of the world’s most scenic train rides awaits.

The 3-4 hour journey takes you through picturesque highlands, flanked by tea plantations and valleys. Along the way, there’ll be brief stops to capture the surroundings’ beauty. As you near the station, you’ll pass through Sri Lanka’s highest town, Nuwara Eliya, known as Little England. Catch glimpses of English-style houses and neatly arranged rose gardens, echoing the colonial past. 

Arriving at Nanu Oya, board the classic train, which winds its way through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands. Find a cosy spot, enjoy your snacks, and take in the view of light green tea plantations, mist-covered peaks, and small villages where children wave cheerily. 

After roughly three hours, you’ll reach Ella, Sri Lanka’s possibly most beautifully situated town, where your guide will help you with your luggage for the final leg to your hotel. The rest of the day is free to absorb the indescribably beautiful surroundings and let time stand still for a moment. 

In the evening, venture into Ella’s charming main street, lined with cosy restaurants and small shops, offering an authentic atmosphere that is both relaxed and lively. 

As you enjoy the crisp morning air and the first meal of the day, look forward to visiting some of the highlands’ most breathtaking viewpoints. 

After breakfast, your guide will lead you on a lovely trek to Little Adam’s Peak, a smaller sibling to the pilgrim mountain, Adam’s Peak. Though smaller and more manageable, it offers equally stunning views. 

The route begins on flat terrain and winds through verdant tea plantations. As the landscape gradually opens up, you’ll approach the summit after about an hour of leisurely walking. Over the final stretch, you’ll conquer 350 steps for a magnificent view over the rolling highlands and the Ella Gap, which dramatically cuts through the surrounding mountains. 

The descent follows the same path through lush surroundings before you set off by car toward what is perhaps Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmark: the beautiful Nine Arch Bridge, constructed during British colonial times without iron or steel.  

From the car, descend via small trails, possibly greeting locals living among the area’s many tea plantations en route. The nine-arched railway bridge awaits, an architectural masterpiece standing nearly 30 metres tall amid the verdant landscape.  

Along the bridge’s rails, you might be accompanied by small lizards and colourful birds. If your timing is right, witness a train crossing the bridge, merging its architecture, the lush setting, and Sri Lanka’s iconic railway in a magical moment.  

After returning to your hotel in Ella, you have a few hours to yourself before enjoying your final evening in Sri Lanka’s magnificent highlands. 

Today, your journey will continue south towards one of Sri Lanka’s most vibrant cities, Galle. Here, you’ll experience Sri Lanka’s rich historical roots, while the gorgeous beaches of the south coast invite you to enjoy a touch of beach holiday relaxation.

En route, stop at one of Sri Lanka’s widest waterfalls, the mythical Ravana Falls. With a 25-metre drop, it cascades powerfully down the rocks. Legend has it that the demon king Ravana hid the fabled Princess Sitha in a cave behind the falls, now known as Ravana Cave. 

Next, travel to Buduruwagala Temple, dating back to the 10th century and famed for its well-preserved rock carvings. The temple features a grand rock face with a 16-metre high Buddha statue surrounded by six smaller figures, depicting Buddha in various poses of meditation. Here, you can appreciate their intricate detail and serene expression in peace, as Buduruwagala enjoys a quieter existence compared to other temples you’ve visited. 

By afternoon, you’ll arrive at your hotel in Galle, where you can explore within the storied walls of Galle Fort. It’s easy to be charmed by the city’s delightful little shops, cafés, and restaurants, all beautifully framed by the echo of centuries past.

In the early morning, you’ll meet your guide at your hotel before heading out on a guided walk through Galle’s cobblestone streets.

Galle oozes colonial charm and bears the unmistakable marks left by the great powers that once held sway here. Since the 16th century, this town has changed hands several times—first occupied by Portuguese seafarers, who built a fort enclosing the city centre. The Dutch later took over and expanded the fort, which stands today as the best-preserved European-built fortress in Southeast Asia—earning Galle Fort a coveted place on the UNESCO world heritage list.

Your city tour begins within the sturdy walls of Galle Fort, which also enclose the town’s picturesque old quarter. As soon as you step through the main gate, the vibrant bustle of daily life greets you, and you’ll be swept up in the echoes of history as you stroll past Galle’s classic colonial buildings. Along the way, your guide will share detailed stories about the city, which in many ways reflects the colourful and diverse history of Sri Lanka.

Of course, your walk also takes you past Galle’s iconic lighthouse and the fort’s many bastions, from where you’ll enjoy breathtaking views over the sea and the nearby beaches—perfect spots you might wish to explore the following morning.

After the guided part of the city tour, you can choose to explore the narrow streets at your own pace. Here, you will discover what is perhaps Sri Lanka’s finest selection of speciality shops, museums, art galleries, restaurants, and cafés.

Today, there are no scheduled activities, so you are free to shape the final chapter of your tour as you wish, before it comes to an end.

You might like to let all the impressions of your tour settle while you relax on one of the beautiful beaches surrounding Galle. If you’ve upgraded to one of our seaside hotels, you’ll only be a few steps from the water’s edge. If you’re staying inside the walls of Galle Fort, or you simply wish to experience some of Sri Lanka’s top beaches, several are within a 35-minute drive.

To the west, you can visit Hikkaduwa, famed for its golden sandy beaches, gently swaying coconut palms, and a sea often frequented by curious fish and large sea turtles. The same can be said of Unawatuna Beach and Jungle Beach to the east, which are just a 15-minute drive from Galle’s historic centre.

You can also set off on new adventures as a guest on one of our exciting optional tours, where you might, for instance, get a real taste of life in a traditional Sri Lankan village or go whale watching if you’re travelling between December and April.

In the evening, why not take a stroll along the old city walls and soak up the views across the shimmering sea, before settling in at one of Galle’s vibrant restaurants to reflect on all of the remarkable experiences from your tour.

Your tour is drawing to a close, but you’ll be heading home with a suitcase brimming with experiences, sensory impressions, and unforgettable encounters with Sri Lanka’s culture and nature.

After breakfast, you’ll be collected from your hotel and driven to the airport, where your journey home to Europe begins, with connecting flight(s) along the way.

You’ll land at your selected airport and can look back on a tour that has offered up fascinating Sri Lankan history and culture – and perhaps even awakened a longing to return one day.