An offbeat journey combining Sri Lanka’s iconic heritage with hidden gems. From UNESCO sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura to the secluded Ritigala Forest Monastery, this tour blends ancient history, highland adventure, wildlife encounters, and serene coastal relaxation. Ideal for travellers from India and the UK seeking a deeper, more immersive Sri Lanka experience.
DAY
01
Arrival - Negombo
Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Transfer to Negombo. Evening stroll along the Dutch Canal waterfront. Overnight in Negombo.
DAY
02
Negombo - Sigiriya
Scenic drive to Sigiriya. Sunset at Kandalama Reservoir. Overnight in Sigiriya.
DAY
03
Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Village Life
Sunrise climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Afternoon village immersion with traditional lunch. Overnight in Sigiriya.
DAY
04
Sigiriya - Dambulla - Ritigala - Anuradhapura
Guided visit to Dambulla Cave Temple. Trek to Ritigala Forest Monastery with a specialist naturalist. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
DAY
05
Anuradhapura Sacred City
Full-day exploration of Anuradhapura Sacred City by bicycle: Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, Abhayagiri Monastery. Overnight in Anuradhapura.
DAY
06
Anuradhapura - Matale - Kandy
Transfer to Kandy via Matale spice garden. Evening guided visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Overnight in Kandy.
DAY
07
Kandy - Knuckles Mountain Range - Kandy
Knuckles Mountain Range guided hike with waterfalls and village immersion. Overnight in Kandy.
DAY
08
Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
Scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya. Visit a tea plantation and factory with tasting. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
DAY
09
Nuwara Eliya - Horton Plains - South Coast
Horton Plains National Park early morning hike to World’s End and optional Baker’s Falls. Transfer to south coast (Hikkaduwa / Unawatuna / Mirissa area). Overnight near south coast.
DAY
10
South Coast - Colombo - Departure
Relaxed beach morning. Transfer to Colombo and airport departure.
Tour Highlights
- Ritigala Forest Monastery – off-the-beaten-path ancient site
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress sunrise climb – UNESCO 5th-century citadel
- Anuradhapura Sacred City bicycle exploration – Sri Maha Bodhi Tree & Ruwanwelisaya
- Knuckles Mountain Range guided hike with waterfalls and village immersion
- Dambulla Cave Temple guided visit
- Tea plantation tour with tasting, Nuwara Eliya
- Horton Plains – World’s End and Baker’s Falls
- South coast beach relaxation and optional activities
Inclusions
- Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout
- Experienced English-speaking chauffeur-guide
- Accommodation (booked by Guardian Holidays)
- Meals on HB Basis (Breakfast + Dinner)
- All entrance fees for listed attractions
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
- Bottled water throughout the journey
- Specialist naturalist guide for Ritigala and Knuckles treks
- Bicycle hire for Anuradhapura exploration
- Tea plantation guided tasting
- Gratuities for guide and hotel staff
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Meals: Lunch
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Gratuities for guide and hotel staff
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities or additional guided experiences
- Visa fees