Sri Lanka Tour Itinerary 12 Days

Day 01 – Polonnaruwa

This Sri Lanka itinerary takes you on an unforgettable journey through the island’s most remarkable destinations over nearly two weeks. Your adventure begins in Polonnaruwa, a city rich in history and heritage. Once a powerful kingdom, Polonnaruwa is home to some of the world’s best-preserved archaeological sites. You’ll explore the remains of the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, visit the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Museum, and marvel at the Polonnaruwa Vatadage, along with many other historically significant landmarks. The intricate details of these ancient remnants will leave you in awe. Your journey continues with a visit to Parakrama Samudraya, a majestic water reservoir with five lakes. As the day winds down, you’ll enjoy a peaceful moment by one of the lakes, surrounded by lush greenery—truly a memory to cherish!

Activities

Arrival to Sri Lanka, Colombo (Katunayaka) International Airport
Greetings by Archers Tours representative & your driver at the airport
Proceed to ancient city of Plonnaruwa
Check into rustic yet luxury hotel to refresh
Later tour around the Polonnaruwa city
Witness 2500 year-old remnants in ancient museums
Walk through to the Local village with friendly villagers
Enjoy the sunset by the “Parakrama samudra” (water tank)
Enjoy your first grand buffet dinner in Sri Lanka
Overnight stay in the beautiful hotel

Day 02 – Sigiriya

Day 2 of your Sri Lanka tour begins with one of the country’s most iconic attractions, Sigiriya. Revered by locals as a must-see at least once in a lifetime, Sigiriya is a highlight of your Sri Lanka itinerary. Instead of directly climbing the Sigiriya rock, you’ll embark on an alternative route, hiking up the Pidurangala rock. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with a breathtaking view of Sigiriya rock, surrounded by lush forests, flowing water streams, and a refreshing breeze that gently sweeps through your hair. This golden land is also home to the ancient and magnificent ‘Royal Gardens,’ one of the oldest garden complexes in the world. You’ll end the day with a peaceful, soul-soothing walk through a nearby village, enjoying the serenity before the adventures that lie ahead in your Sri Lanka journey.

Activities

Wake up to the beautiful Polonaruwa village life
Take a morning walk around the charming village
Enjoy the breakfast buffet overlooking the lake
Taste tropical fruits fresh from the village
Proceed to the city of Sigirya
On the way, visit Mineriya National Park for wildlife
Check in to your beautiful hotel in Sigirya
In the afternoon, climb Sigirya Rock Fortress
Back to the hotel and relax
Devour a humongous dinner buffet at the hotel

Day 03 – Kandy

On the third day of your Sri Lanka holiday itinerary, you’ll wake up surrounded by the lush beauty of nature. Nestled amidst bio-diverse rainforests and misty mountain ranges, Kandy, the ancient capital in the central hills, is a must-see destination in your Sri Lanka tour. Known for its stunning scenic landscapes, Kandy offers a peaceful retreat. You’ll wander through the royal botanical gardens, sipping tea at a café within the garden as you take in the breathtaking natural beauty around you. The city, rich in art and culture, offers endless opportunities to explore. Following your Sri Lanka itinerary, you embark on a city tour, visiting local batik and wood carving shops, exploring ancient temples, and concluding the day with a tranquil boat ride.

Activities

Start your day with a never-ending breakfast buffet
Enjoy mouth-watering fresh tropical fruits
Exit from dry zoon in Sri Lanka to cool hill stations
On the way stop by at Dambulla cave temple
Visit Spice village and know about famous Sri Lanka spices
Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan meal cooked in spice village
Check in to the enticing Kandy hotel & refresh
Visit the most famous Kandy temple
Enjoy a flavourful dinner buffet at the hotel
End your day with a refreshing Sri Lankan Lion beer

Day 04 – Ella

Your Sri Lanka itinerary promises the beauty you’ve been dreaming of, and Ella town is a perfect example of that. Known as one of the top destinations in Sri Lanka, Ella is a must-visit spot on your journey. Begin by experiencing one of the most scenic train rides in the world, traveling from Kandy to Ella. As you journey through the mountains, past misty waterfalls, lush forests, and picturesque villages filled with welcoming locals, you’ll be in awe of the breathtaking views. Upon arrival, you’ll climb Ella Rock and take a stroll along the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. As promised in your personalized Sri Lanka itinerary, you’ll reach the edge of Diyaluma Falls, one of the country’s stunning natural wonders. Take a refreshing dip in the gushing waters, feeling as if you’re floating in an infinity pool, all thanks to the enchanting magic of nature!

Activities

Breakfast at the hotel
Proceed to Ella
Enjoy a world famous train ride
Capture beautiful waterfalls and old style train stations
Check in to the charming Ella hotel & refresh
Taste original Ceylon Tea at a tea estate
Witness the famous Ella Gap
Visit the beautiful Nine Arch Bridge
Bath in natural pools of beautiful waterfalls
Hike mini Adams Peak
Appetizing Sri Lankan dinner buffet at the hotel

Day 05- Yala National Park

The day you’ve been eagerly anticipating has finally arrived – the adventure begins! Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved attractions, offers an exhilarating jungle safari, and it’s an experience you can’t miss on your Sri Lanka tour. As you journey deep into the wilderness, you’ll quickly realize that the jungle is unpredictable, and the thrill of being surrounded by nature’s raw beauty is unmatched. Following your Sri Lanka itinerary, you’ll encounter the mesmerizing sight of leopards, majestic elephants, and vibrant birds perched on tree branches, chirping and calling to one another. While your tour may be planned, the jungle itself remains untamed and full of surprises!

Activities

Delicious breakfast buffet at the hotel
Check out and proceed to Yala national park
Check in to the tropical hotel in Yala
Gear up for the jungle safari
4 x 4 jeep safari to the jungle in Yala National Park
Proceed back to hotel for over-night stay
Enjoy a BBQ dinner with a Sri Lankan Lion beer

Day 06 & 07 – Mirissa

Your Sri Lanka itinerary just got even more exciting! Mirissa, a vibrant beachfront city, offers a wealth of activities and is a must-visit destination, which is why it’s included in your personalized Sri Lanka tour. When we say your itinerary is tailored for you, we mean you’ll be spending three full days soaking in the sun and enjoying the beach! After the thrilling safari at Yala, you’ll dive straight into adventure with snorkeling, scuba diving, and kite surfing. Don’t forget to capture a picture-perfect moment at the famous Coconut Tree spot for your Instagram. On the second day, you’ll head out early for an unforgettable dolphin and whale watching experience at Mirissa Beach before diving back into more water sports. As the sun begins to set, you’ll unwind on the soft sands of the beach, enjoying the peaceful evening with your loved ones.

Activities – Day 06

Enjoy a delicious grand breakfast buffet at hotel
Take a walk around the Yala village with locals
Check out from the hotel
Proceed to breathtaking Mirissa Beach
On the way, visit Sri Lankan stilt fishermen
Check in to beach front hotel in Mirissa
Relax and enjoy your time by the beach
Taste the Sri Lankan crab dish at the dinner buffet

Activities – Day 07

Wake up to the sound of the beach waves
Early morning Yoga session at the beach
Breakfast buffet at hotel overlooking the beautiful Indian ocean
Prepare to take a boat ride to visit whales & dolphins
Take part in a range of exciting water sports
Later proceed back to your beach hotel & relax
Witness the most amazing sunset with a cocktail
Enjoy the BBQ & seafood dinner buffet
Have fun in a Calypso and sing along beach party

Day 08 & 09 – Sinharaja

From the serene beaches, your adventure continues into the jungle! After a fantastic week in paradise, it’s time to explore the lush Sinharaja Rain Forest on your Sri Lanka tour itinerary. You’ll discover a beautiful natural spring nestled in the heart of the forest, where you can take a refreshing dip while enjoying a sweet king coconut in hand – pure bliss! After a relaxing time, you’ll return to your charming hotel for a delicious Sri Lankan meal, complete with flavorful curries. The next morning, your Sri Lanka itinerary takes you on a village walk through Sinharaja, where the warm and welcoming locals will greet you. You’ll then return to the forest for an unforgettable breakfast amidst nature, truly capturing the essence of an authentic Sri Lankan experience.

Activities – Day 08 & 09

Wake up to the beautiful bird chirpings
Start the day with a jungle walk
Trekkers will stop inside the jungle for breakfast
Continue jungle trekking in Sinharaja Rainforest
Proceed back to Sinharaja hotel and relax
Later, Sink in an Ayurveda spa session
Enjoy a mouth-watering dinner buffet at the hotel
Taste sweet & juicy tropical fruits for dessert

Day 10 – Bentota

The love for the sea continues on the tenth day of your Sri Lanka tour. In Bentota, you’ll rent a bicycle and cycle through this picturesque city, passing by lush paddy fields, admiring the stunning ancient murals at the Mullegoda Temple, and visiting the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. Along the way, you’ll have the chance to chat with the friendly locals and savor delicious local cuisine. This is truly a wonderful Sri Lanka itinerary, enhanced by the enchanting gardens nestled in the heart of Bentota. But as with any part of your Sri Lanka journey, there’s always a bit of adventure around the corner. You’ll jump back into the vibrant turquoise waters for some thrilling water sports, then unwind on the golden beach with your loved ones. As you watch the beautiful sunset, you’ll reflect on your amazing Sri Lanka holiday and the unforgettable experiences along the way. This is what a real vacation feels like!

Day 11 – Colombo

Colombo is the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, and in your Sri Lanka itinerary, this is the best place to end your Sri Lanka tour. The beautiful museum-like Gangaramaya Temple, heavily decorated Old and New Kathiresan Kovils, the gigantic Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque), and the Wolvendaal Church; the only Dutch church in Sri Lanka altogether portray the diverse cultures in the country. The city is full of energy and has the best restaurants and shopping complexes in your Sri Lanka itinerary. It is the last travel day of your Sri Lanka tour, and you spend a wonderful time with the locals in their social hubs like Independence Square, the Arcade, the Viharamahadevi Park, and the Galle Face Beach. As you watch the heart-warming sunset, the Colombo nightlife is calling you for an insane party night!