The Charm of a Journey 10 Days Tour

·10 Days, 16 Destinations·Starts from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport

Free Cancellation

Full refund up to 30 days before the tour

Early Booking Advantage

Only 25% prepayment until 30 days before departure

Duration

10 days

Max Group Size

Departure Type

Request

Guiding Method

Fully guided

Physical level

relax

Operated In

About this tour

Sri Lanka, the resplendent isle adrift in the cerulean waters of the Indian Ocean, is a land where time-worn history and vibrant culture converge beneath a canopy of tropical splendor. Shaped like a teardrop, this island nation is a living mosaic of breathtaking beauty, from the mist-shrouded peaks of the central highlands and cascading waterfalls to the sun-drenched coastlines fringed with palm trees. Yet, beyond its natural allure lies a profound historical and cultural tapestry, woven over millennia by ancient kings, Buddhist pilgrims, and colonial traders. Here, colossal rock fortresses like Sigiriya pierce the sky, sacred temples enshrine the relics of the Buddha, and the crumbling ruins of medieval cities whisper tales of a glorious past, all while age-old traditions and vibrant festivals continue to pulse through the daily life of its warm and welcoming people.

ExplorerHealth, Spa & WellnessBeautyPhotographyWildlifeAccessible ToursSolo TravelHistoricalIn-depth CulturalMuseumNational ParkDiscoveryFood & CulinaryDailySightseeingAll InclusiveSafariFamilyBeach

Route

Starts from

Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport

Ends in

Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport

Pickup Location

Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport

What makes this tour special

The Charm of a Journey

Itinerary

Welcome to the wonder of Asia. In the coming few days, you will be discovering this beautiful paradise island rich in heritage, thrill, scenic, pristine and hospitality in abundance with team WanderlustAsia.

Arrival in Colombo (CMB), Sri Lanka International Airport, meet with local representative of Wanderlust-Asia and leave for the hotel in Sigiriya area. Check in to the hotel and relax.

Travel time – aprox; 2 hours

Morning Proceed to Sigiriya.

Imagine you in the middle of a massive 200 meter rock fortress of 5th Century AD... A royal palace built on a colossal rock using the most sophisticated technology; having unique frescoes dating back to over thousand years - a place that has intrigued many archeologists and historians, let alone the tourists, all over the world. How do you feel? Enthralled right? The remains of the citadel on a massive rock, the unique Lion Gate, the mirror wall, moats, ponds and archeological ruins of Sigiriya rock makes it the Eighth Wonder of the World. Well, you have to see it to believe it!

Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa – around 1 hour

Once the climb is done, continue your tour to Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa is a grandeur unsurpassed. An interesting mix of Buddhism, ancient craftsmanship, arts, architecture and South Indian Hindu culture spread across around 122 hectares - an experience that would forever be etched in the traveler’s mind. Ready to find out what you would explore in this 11th & 12th Century medieval capital during your travel journey

After breakfast, depart for Aukana to visit one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable ancient sculptures. The magnificent Aukana Buddha Statue, standing at approximately 12 meters in height, dates back to the 5th century and represents a masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese craftsmanship.

Aukana to Yapahuwa – around 1 hour

Thereafter, continue to Yapahuwa, a former medieval capital of Sri Lanka dating back to the 13th century. Dramatically rising from the surrounding plains, Yapahuwa Rock Fortress once served as a royal residence and defensive stronghold.

The highlight of the visit is the impressive stone staircase adorned with intricate carvings and lion sculptures, leading towards the summit. The fortress once housed the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha for a brief period.

Visitors may climb to the upper terrace to explore the ruins of the ancient palace and enjoy panoramic views over the countryside.

Following breakfast proceed to Anuradhapura,

Taking you back in time -to Sri Lanka’s First Capital.

The heart of Sri Lanka’s majestic civilization enriched with Buddhism, exquisite sculpture, magnificent feats of architecture and hydraulic sophistication depicted by the cluster of reservoirs and irrigation channels- all reminiscent of the grandeur of a bygone era founded in the 5th Century BC and self- sustained in the decades afterwards.

Anuradhapura to Mihintale – around 30 Minutes

After the conquest for Mihintale.

Mihintale is called the "cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka" — this is the place where the monk Mahinda, son of Emperor Asoka of India, first taught Buddhist doctrine to King Devanampiyatissa more than 2,000 years ago.

After the visit, return back to the hotel in Dambulla

Following Breakfast, Enjoy a Dambulla historical city tour

First to the world famous Dambulla rock temple. A vast isolated rock mass, on a gentle slope. As you climb, you will enjoy the panoramic view of the surrounding. An ancient King on exile is said to have taken refuge here. Inside the cave you find a large collection of Buddha statues and the roof which is a beautiful canvas of Buddhist paintings –some 2000 years old.

Dambulla to Kandy – around 2 hours

Proceed to Kandy. On the way stop at spices garden in Matale. It's a great way to explore Sri Lanka’s rich heritage of spices and herbal medicine. Famous for its spice plantations, where you can learn about the cultivation and uses of cinnamon, cardamom, vanilla, cloves, nutmeg, and more.

Kandy is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic- a supreme place of Buddhist worship.

The first on the agenda is a visit to the majestic Tooth Relic Shrine (Dalada Maligawa) which has preserved its ancient splendor –adorned with Kandyan architecture and spectacular interior. On your way there you will walk past the beautiful Kandy Lake. A walk around the place you will witness the traditional drumming during morning, noon and evening, learn the ritual and honors accorded to the Relic, the history, custodians of this iconic heritage.

The day concluded with cultural dancing program

Following breakfast, you will be heading further up the misty mountains to Nuwara Eliya.

You are in the Land of Ceylon Tea so this part of the country shouldn’t be missed.

View of the drive to Nuwara EliyaThe picturesque

Nuwara Eliya – also known the world over as ‘little England’ has wonderful tea estates. Get into the car and get ready to explore these heavenly highlands! The tour will take you on a scenic drive through acres of lush tea estates; here you will see tea pickers, mostly females clad in sarees, carefully picking the tender two leaves and a bud which are essential to making fine tea. You will have the opportunity to visit a tea factory to witness the process of making your cuppa. May we also remind you not forget to indulge in the pleasure in fine Ceylon Tea- Black Tea, Green Tea, Oolong Tea, or silver Tips whatever your choice is;

You will be transferred to Ambewela Railway Station to board one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic train journeys. Sit back and relax as the train winds through mist-covered hills, tea plantations, waterfalls, and lush valleys on the way to Ella.

Arrive in Ella and proceed for a short sightseeing tour around the destination, enjoying its cool climate, panoramic views, and charming hill-country atmosphere. Visit key viewpoints or take a gentle walk through the town before checking in to your hotel.

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya – around 2 hours | Train around 2.30hours

Ella - Want to get a feel of an enchanting destination entwined in the famous Hindu epic Ramayanaya? Ella is associated with the Rama-Ravana epic - a legend that is older than the recorded history of Sri Lanka. Legend has it that Lankan demon king Ravana kept the Indian Princess Sita who is the lover of the divine Prince Rama, imprisoned in the Central Hills.

Above all, scenic venue for adventure – hiking, camping to rock climbing and caving, a climb up the Little Adam’s Peak- a trail through tea estates to an elevation over thousand meters above sea level.

After breakfast, we set off for Yala National Park.

It is located in the southeastern region of the country, in the Southern Province and Uva Province. The park covers an area of 979 km² and is about 300 km from Colombo. Together with Wilpattu National Park, it was one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka, having been established in 1938. Yala Park is especially known for its variety of wildlife; it plays an important role in the conservation of the Sri Lankan elephant and aquatic birds. It is home to 215 species of birds, including six endemic species of Sri Lanka. It also has the highest density of leopards in the world.

Afternoon: Jeep Safari in Yala.

After the Safari, Transfer to your camping site, surrounded by nature. Enjoy a relaxed evening with dinner at the campsite and time to unwind under the stars.

Ella to Yala – around 2 hours

Breakfast at the hotel and leave for Galle.

Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage City in Sri Lanka, is a historic coastal town known for its well-preserved 17th-century Dutch Fort. Blending colonial architecture with South Asian traditions, Galle Fort features cobblestone streets, charming cafés, boutique shops, and stunning ocean views. Its rich history, cultural vibrancy, and relaxed ambiance make it a must-visit destination.

In the evening proceed to Colombo. Bet you are going to love the diversity of this destination. Full of fun and frolic.

Colombo: Sri Lanka’s commercial capital brings varying options be it leisure, dining, shopping or accommodation; marked with diverse colonial and cultural influences from Dutch and British colonial style architecture to Islamic mosques, Anglican and Catholic churches.

Yala to Galle – Around 2 hours.

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight

Colombo to the airport – around 40 min

Trip includes

Included

Professional English-speaking licensed tour guide during all sightseeing tours.

Guiding Method
Fully guided

Daily open buffet breakfasts.
Lunches and dinners as mentioned in the itinerary.

Airport meet and greet upon arrival.
Arrival and departure airport transfers.
Transportation in a modern, fully air-conditioned, non-smoking coach.

Guided city tours and excursions as outlined in the itinerary.
Entrance fees to all museums, historical sites, and attractions mentioned in the itinerary.
Local cultural experiences and activities included in the program.
Hotel taxes and VAT.
Luggage handling at hotels (where available).
24/7 TravelShopBooking customer support throughout your journey

This tour is operated with guaranteed departures on selected dates.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as several historical sites feature uneven surfaces and cobblestone streets.

A moderate level of physical fitness is recommended.

Hotel check-in is generally after 14:00, and check-out is before 12:00.

The order of sightseeing may be adjusted due to weather conditions, local events, or operational requirements while maintaining the full program.

TravelShopBooking reserves the right to substitute hotels with similar-category accommodations when necessary.

Vegetarian and special dietary requests can usually be accommodated if advised in advance.

Passport validity should be at least six months beyond the date of travel.

Travel insurance is highly recommended for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage protection.

Currency exchange, ATMs, and credit card facilities are widely available in major cities; however, carrying some local currency for small purchases is advisable.

Free time is included on selected days, allowing guests to explore independently or join optional excursions.

Please arrive at the hotel lobby at least 10 minutes before the scheduled departure time for daily tours to ensure a smooth start.

Excluded

Accommodation in carefully selected 4-star hotels throughout the tour.

Hotel

International flights.
Domestic flights (unless specifically stated in the itinerary).

Travel insurance (strongly recommended).