This 9-day Best of Sri Lanka tour takes you on a comprehensive adventure across the island, covering the coastal charm of Negombo and Beruwala, the ancient wonders of the
Share:
Hightlight tour
Rich Cultural Activities
Cuisine
Sightseeing
Itinerary
1
Day 1: Welcome to Negombo, SRILANKA
Your journey commences with a warm welcome upon arrival at Colombo International Airport by our dedicated representative. From there, you’ll embark on a serene 40-kilometer drive to Negombo. Upon reaching Negombo, you’ll check in at your hotel. The day unfolds with a delightful city tour of Negombo, including visits to the Fish Market, the charming Negombo Town, the historic Catholic church, and the picturesque Old Dutch Canal. The evening sets the stage for a lovely dinner, and you’ll enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel.
2
Day 2: From Negombo to Anuradhapura and Habarana
Following a satisfying breakfast, your next adventure awaits. You’ll embark on a memorable excursion to the historic city of Anuradhapura, located approximately 170 kilometers away. Anuradhapura is renowned for its well-preserved remnants of an ancient Sinhala civilization. After your tour, you will proceed to Habarana for an overnight stay.
3
Day 3: Sigiriya Exploration and the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
After a hearty breakfast, the day starts with a visit to the awe-inspiring rock fortress of Sigiriya. Sigiriya is a captivating testimony to the Ceylonese civilization during the reign of Kassapa I. Following this adventure, you’ll continue your journey to Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka, a historic city built in the 11th and 12th centuries A.D. This remarkable city is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing the remnants of the Royal Palace, the renowned Gal Viharaya, the audience hall, the lotus bath, and the impressive Parakrama Samudra tank. The day concludes with a delectable dinner and a peaceful overnight stay at your hotel.
4
Day 4: From Habarana to the Enchanting Kandy
Following breakfast, you’ll embark on a picturesque journey to Kandy, situated about 95 kilometers away. Along the way, you’ll visit the Dambulla Rock Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five caves adorned with over 2000 square meters of painted walls and ceilings. Among the 150 Buddha images within these caves, the colossal 14-meter rock-carved statue stands as a remarkable centerpiece. As you continue your journey, a visit to a spice garden allows you to discover the variety of spices for which Sri Lanka is renowned. A sumptuous dinner and a comfortable overnight stay await you at your hotel in Kandy.
5
Day 5: Kandy’s Charms, Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and Cultural Extravaganza
This day begins with a captivating visit to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary that cares for elephants, including many adorable baby elephants. Visitors have the opportunity to witness the heartwarming sight of these young elephants being bottle-fed and enjoying their daily baths in a nearby river. Returning to Kandy, you’ll have the evening free to savor a traditional cultural dance show. As the day concludes, a delightful dinner awaits, followed by a restful overnight stay at your hotel.
6
Day 6: Journey to Nuwara Eliya, the Tea Capital
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll set out on a scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. Along the way, you’ll visit a tea factory where you’ll gain insights into the tea production process and have the opportunity to explore a tea plantation and taste a cup of pure Ceylon tea. Upon arriving in Nuwara Eliya, you’ll check in at your hotel and later embark on a city tour, exploring the enchanting landscapes of this picturesque town. Dinner and a comfortable overnight stay are included.
7
Day 7: From Nuwara Eliya to Yala’s Wildlife Wonderland
Following breakfast, your journey continues as you head to Yala, the largest national park in Sri Lanka. Yala offers a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, where you can encounter a wide array of wildlife, including wild elephants, wild boar, wild buffalo, leopards, bears, deer, migratory birds, and crocodiles. As the day draws to a close, you’ll relish a delectable dinner and enjoy a peaceful overnight stay at your hotel.
8
Day 8: From Yala to Beruwala via Galle’s Historic Fort
After a satisfying breakfast, your journey continues to the coastal town of Beruwala. Along the way, you’ll make a stop at the historic Dutch Fort of Galle, an iconic site that famously withstood the Boxing Day tsunami. During your visit, you’ll also have the unique opportunity to witness “stilt fishing,” a traditional practice exclusive to southern Sri Lanka where fishermen perch on slender sticks planted in the ocean. As the day unfolds, you’ll indulge in a delightful dinner and enjoy a restful overnight stay at your hotel in Beruwala.
9
Day 9: Departure from Colombo International Airport
Following a fulfilling breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to bid farewell to this memorable journey. We will arrange your comfortable transfer to Colombo International Airport, marking the conclusion of your incredible adventure as you prepare to board your departing flight.
This 9-day Best of Sri Lanka tour takes you on a comprehensive adventure across the island, covering the coastal charm of Negombo and Beruwala, the ancient wonders of the Cultural Triangle, the cultural heart of Kandy, the scenic tea highlands of Nuwara Eliya, and the thrilling wilderness of Yala National Park.
Explore the deep-rooted history of ancient civilizations at the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Anuradhapura, the rock fortress of Sigiriya, the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, and the cave temple complex of Dambulla, which holds the world’s largest collection of painted murals.
Experience the vibrant culture of Sri Lanka by witnessing a traditional cultural dance show in Kandy, observing rescued elephants at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, and visiting authentic spice gardens and world-class tea plantations.
Immerse yourself in nature with a safari through Yala National Park to spot leopards and wild elephants, and marvel at the unique tradition of stilt fishing along the southern coast near the historic Dutch Fort of Galle.
Price includes
A guided tour of important places
A two-person English-speaking Travel Director and Driver team with you for the duration of your journey
Beautifully illustrated souvenir map
Current Hotel Taxes and Service Charges
Entrance tickets to monuments and museums mentioned on the itinerary
Sightseeing and activities as described in your itinerary
All accommodations – First class or best available hotels in the area based on the hotel price category booked
Breakfast daily and some evening meals as described in your trip itinerary.
Meals, unless expressly states
Observation and participation in allowed activities
Professionally guided tour
Arrival and Departure Airport transfers
Transport to and from hotel listed on itinerary
Bottled water
Price does not include
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes
Departure Taxes
Visa processing arrangements
Extra pre and / or post hotel nights for before and after your trip. These can be booked through Lotus of India and or your Travel Agent and be added during the booking process.
Handling fees
Excess baggage charge
Increases in airfares or Government imposed taxes
International Air, unless expressly paid for
Medical Travel insurance and emergency insurance
Visas and Travel Insurance.
Other International and domestic flights not mentioned on the itinerary.
Personal expenses.
Porterage for a maximum of two bags per person.
All porterage and restaurant gratuities.
Services not specifically stated in the itinerary.
Tips to guide and driver.
Optional Experiences. Optional Experiences are additional add-on experiences unique to the destination that are booked and paid for (credit card or cash) when you are on your tour. As Optional Experiences are pre-bookable, this allows you the flexibility to pick and choose what you feel like when you’re on your trip.
Any taxi fares or personal spending money including for non-included items, meals.
Level of Physical fitness required for the Lotus of India tour?
A moderate amount of walking is involved at both attractions.
Check recommended level for travelers with back problems or any other issues.
Check the dress codes for proper vestments for religious sites or county customs.
Don’t forget to bring sunscreen, hats, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and hiking or tennis shoes.
Guidelines for Different Religious Sites
Typical Dress Code for Churches and Cathedrals
Churches, particularly in Europe, often require covered shoulders and knees. Bringing a scarf or shawl can be handy if you need to cover up quickly.
Dress Codes in Mosques
Mosques typically require women to cover their hair with a scarf or hijab and both men and women to wear long pants or skirts. Some mosques provide appropriate attire at the entrance.
Typical Dress Code for Temples and Shrines.
In Hindu and Buddhist temples, it is respectful to wear long sleeves and long skirts or pants. Removing shoes is often mandatory, and wearing socks might be required in some places.
Tips for Respectful Attire
Removing Hats or Headwear
While head coverings may be required in some religious sites, hats and caps are generally considered disrespectful and should be removed before entering.
Layering for Comfort and Respect
Bringing a lightweight layer, like a cardigan or shawl, allows you to adapt your outfit as needed. This is especially useful when transitioning from a hot climate outside to a cool interior within religious buildings.
Understanding Local Customs
Researching or asking about local customs before visiting can prevent unintentional disrespect. Each religious site may have unique expectations regarding dress code.
Additional Information
Confirmation will be received at time of booking and payment
Tours can be customized, by request with a multi-lingual guides option: (English, Spanish, French, Italian, German and Portuguese).
Daily Tours departures times will be announced by your guide a day prior to the tour date.
The tour starts times ranges based on the activity booked.
Waiver will need to be signed attesting to good health conditions
Cancellation and Refunds Policies
For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours after booking payment.
In the event of cancellation, Traveler should notify Lotus of India in writing at – least 60 days prior to travel.
If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
Any changes made after paid booking before the experience’s start date / time will be subject to modification fees.
If the experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
This experience requires a minimum number of travelers ( 2 ). If it’s canceled because the minimum wasn’t met, you’ll be offered options and recalculated prices.
A cancellation fee will be charged by Lotus of India for all cancelled bookings, as per the following cancellation terms.
Foreign travelers often worry about physical strain, especially seniors and couples. Physical comfort is managed proactively rather than reactively.
Private tours control walking distances. Vehicles drop travelers close to sites, and visits are planned during less crowded hours.
Food concerns are extremely common. Travelers worry about hygiene, food spice levels, and digestive issues.
Private tours ensure meals are taken in reputable restaurants and hotels where hygiene standards are controlled. Spice levels are adjusted, and dietary needs are respected.
Most food-related problems occur when travelers eat randomly or without guidance.
Travel anxiety often peaks around “what if” scenarios. Delays, illness, missed connections, or fatigue worry travelers before booking.
Private tours include contingency handling. Drivers, guides and operators respond immediately to changes without traveler involvement.
This safety net is one of the strongest reasons foreign travelers choose private tours.
Fear of rushed itineraries is common, especially among travelers who have seen aggressive group tour schedules.
Private tours are paced according to traveler energy, not preset checklists. Days are balanced, and sightseeing is spread logically.
Foreign travelers often say they see less but understand more, which improves satisfaction.
India requires more planning than many destinations because of its scale and diversity. Foreign travelers often underestimate travel times, climate differences, and regional variations.
Private tour planning absorbs this complexity. Routes are optimized, rest is built in, and seasonal factors are considered. Good planning reduces surprises, which is essential for confidence.
There is a misconception that private tours are only for ultra-luxury travelers. Private tours exist across comfort levels. The defining feature is personalization, not price.
Even mid-range private tours offer better control and ease than budget independent travel. Luxury private tours simply enhance comfort further through premium hotels and experiences.
Foreign travelers choose private tours not to show wealth, but to avoid friction.
Many travelers imagine private tours as rigid luxury packages. Private tours are flexible frameworks.
Each day begins and ends based on traveler comfort. Sightseeing is adjusted in real time. If a site feels crowded or energy is low, plans change without stress.
This adaptability is what foreign travelers value most. They are not following a script; they are being supported.
Safety questions often come from lack of familiarity rather than real risk. Foreign travelers worry about crime, harassment, scams, and medical emergencies.
Private tours significantly reduce exposure to unsafe situations. Drivers manage routes and timing, guides handle interactions, and hotels provide secure environments.
Most foreign travelers report feeling safer in India on private tours than in many other countries they have visited independently.
Language concerns are common, especially for travelers who do not speak any Indian languages. In practice, language is rarely an issue when traveling privately. English is widely spoken by guides, hotel staff and drivers working with international tourists.
For foreign tourists, communication becomes effortless when handled professionally.
Comfort is the first unspoken concern. Foreign travelers are not asking whether India has luxury hotels; they are asking whether daily life between destinations will feel manageable.
India becomes comfortable when travel is structured. Private car travel in India, professional drivers, well-located hotels and guided sightseeing remove most discomfort factors. Without structure, even good hotels cannot compensate for chaotic movement.
Persons arriving from Yellow Fever endemic countries or those who have visited such countries during the past 6 days immediately preceding their entry into India will be required to possess a valid certificate of Yellow Fever vaccination from an authorized vaccination center. Persons arriving from a country having public health risk may be required to undergo medical screening or additional measures as decided by Ministry of Health and Family Welfare of India.
Minimum six months of validity and two blank pages for the Immigration stamps. Note that the visa validity starts from the issue date.
All foreign visitors need a visa, expect citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. Visa-on-Arrival facility is available to the citizens of Japan, South Korea & UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). Others can apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
Our partners make every effort to accommodate any special needs requests, whether it be a dietary restriction or physical limitations. In order to accommodate your needs as best possible, we ask that you let your Travel Specialist know at the time of booking. You may be asked to fill out a form depending on the type of request.
You may bring one suitcase per person weighing up to 50 lbs. You may also bring one piece of hand luggage provided it is small enough to take on the coach. These details will also be provided in your travel documents. Please note that air carriers may have their own restrictions and requirements including weight. We recommend that you contact the airlines directly for additional information. You can also learn more about checked baggage fees and allowances here.
Traveling solo traveler and prefer the privacy of your own room, a supplement will be applied to the price of your trip. The cost will depend on your trip and is available on request. If you’d rather not incur the additional expense, consider sharing option to avoid the extras. We’ll advice you if some other solo travelers requesting sharing. We will accommodate you with a fellow guest of the same gender, on a twin-bed basis. Please note that room shares are not valid on all trips.
Customization is one of the most asked about aspects. Foreign travelers want reassurance that itineraries are not fixed templates.
Private tours are built around interests, pace, and comfort. Changes can be made before and during the trip. This flexibility builds trust and confidence.
Some travelers worry that private tours might feel artificial or disconnected. The opposite is true. Authenticity comes from understanding, not exposure.
Private tours allow deeper interaction because guides explain context, facilitate conversations and choose meaningful experiences
Planning your first trip to India can raise many questions about safety, visas, transport, and the best places to visit. Our experienced travel specialists are here to guide you every step of the way.
Most major credit cards are widely accepted throughout India. Credit cards and most debit cards can be used for ATM cash withdrawals onshore. We recommend bringing at least one credit card plus an ATM card. Try to avoid carrying euro notes larger than €100, as merchants may be hesitant to accept them due to counterfeiting. Limited currency exchange available at all major hotels have exchange facilities. Travelers Checks are not recommended. It’s always a good idea to let your credit card issuer and bank know of your plans to travel abroad so they can expect foreign transactions on your account.
All tour deposits are non-refundable. However, we do offer deposit protection within our company, which means your tour only base deposit can be used toward a future Lotus of India, Lotus of Asia, or Travelonica, a sister tour brands holiday within the next year ( 12 months ).
If your booking is confirmed you will have received an invoice shortly after booking both for tour deposits, and for tours where you’ve paid in full. Please always check your junk, spam, or promotions folder. If any additions and changes to your booking, including any payments made, we will send you an updated invoice.
You can see your full payment due date in our Payment Terms. Full payment is available at the time of booking.
All payment dates and amounts will appear on your invoice once you’ve booked. Please note, deposit and full payment terms may vary for special offers. Please familiarise yourself with our full Booking Conditions.
Payment process will vary depend on how you booked your tour and there are several ways you can make payments.
You can Contact Us and we’ll send you a one-time secure payment link or take your payment over the phone.
If you booked with a Travel Agent: Contact your Travel Agent to make payments for your tour directly through them.
If you are you are Travel Agent? You can make payments directly through the Travel Agent Portal where you can also view your booked invoices.
We accept the following payment methods: Credit/debit cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover and PayPal
Serene Tropical Temples
No hay valoraciones aún.