Deal negotiated for you
- The 9-day / 8-night tour in the accommodation as listed (or similar)
- 4 nights in Kandalama
- 4 nights in Wadduwa - Half-board included from dinner on arrival to breakfast on departure day
- Flights departing from the city of your choice
- Transfers are scheduled in a private air-conditioned car with an English-speaking driver (except in Wadduwa).
- Welcome and assistance at the airport of arrival
- One 500ml bottle of water per person on arrival
- A safari in Hurulu Eco Park
Your stay starts here
Between culture and relaxation in Sri Lanka 4*
This 9-day private tour is the perfect combination of culture and relaxation in the wonderful country of Sri Lanka.
In Kandalama, discover this country's iconic culture and heritage by visiting the Pidurangala Rock; meet elephants in Habarana; visit the Dambulla temples and finally head south to relax on the tropical beaches of Wadduwa.
Your itinerary, day by day:
Day 1: Colombo - Kandalama
Day 2: Kandalama - Pidurangala - Kandalama
Day 3: Kandalama - Habarana - Kandalama
Day 4: Kandalama - safari at Hurulu Eco Park (Habarana) - Kandalama
Day 5: Kandalama - Dambulla - Wadduwa
Day 6: Free day in Wadduwa
Day 7: Free day in Wadduwa
Day 8: Free day in Wadduwa
Day 9: Wadduwa - Colombo for departure
Your detailed itinerary
Day 1 | Colombo - Kandalama
Arrival at Colombo airport. Reception and transfer with an English-speaking driver to Kandalama. Arrival and check-in at the hotel. Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Please note:
Distance from Colombo airport to Kandalama Hotel: approx. 150 km (so, about 3h30 drive).
Day 2 | Kandalama - Pidurangala - Kandalama
Breakfast at the hotel, then departure for Pidurangala (approx 20 km; about a 40 min drive).
Visit Pidurangala Rock, a mountain which has a working monastery (Pidurangala Vihara) at its foot. A rocky path leads to historic caves that were used by monks as far back as the first century BC. Near the summit is an impressive restored statue of a reclining Buddha. Once you reach the top, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the monastic ruins and a stupa. Early risers can enjoy the sunrise. The panoramic view from Pidurangala features the famous Sigiriya rock fortress.
Return to the hotel for a free evening. Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Day 3 | Kandalama - Habarana - Kandalama
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today, visit the village of Habarana with a trip on a local dugout canoe (approx 20 km from Kandalama; about 30 minutes by car).
Wake up early to set off for Hiriwaduna, a small traditional village on the edge of a reservoir, reached by a 45-minute walk. This walk, which crosses a banana plantation, will be an opportunity to taste local drinks and discover the region's many crops and spices.
Return to the hotel. Evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Day 4 | Kandalama - Hurulu Eco Park - Kandalama
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today, enjoy a jeep safari to Hurulu Eco Park in Habarana (Approx: 20km, about 30min from Kandalama).
Hurulu Eco Park was designated a biosphere reserve in January 1977. This 10,000-hectare ecosystem is home to a thriving animal population. The reserve is crucial for the Sri Lankan elephant and its seasonal migrations between surrounding forests. Nearby protected areas, such as the Ritigala, Minneriya-Giritale, and Mahaweli floodplains, reinforce its importance. Enjoy a game drive in an Indian Mahindra Jeep to observe the region's majestic elephants, elegant birds, and remarkable landscapes.
Return to the hotel, evening at leisure. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Tip: We recommend bringing sunglasses and a cap/hat.
Day 5 | Kandalama - Dambulla - Wadduwa
Breakfast at the hotel, then drive to Wadduwa.
On the way, visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla (approx. 20 minutes' drive). It was founded in the 1st century by King Valagamba. Ancient sculptures and paintings of Buddha and various Hindu deities are located in five central caves. The original sculptures and paintings have been added to over the centuries and stand as a monument to the evolution of artistic styles.
Later, depart for Wadduwa (approx. 180 km, approx. 4 hours' drive from Kandalama). Arrival and check-in at the hotel.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Tip: When visiting temples, wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. Visits are done barefoot, so bring socks.
Day 6 | Wadduwa
Breakfast at the hotel.
Day at leisure.
Wadduwa is a peaceful seaside resort renowned for its long, palm-lined beaches and relaxed atmosphere. The coastline is ideal for swimming and relaxation, and offers the perfect setting for admiring stunning sunsets. The town is also renowned for its coconut production tradition and its small local shops.
Dinner and overnight at the hotel.
Please note: Vehicle/driver not available.
Day 7 | Wadduwa
Breakfast at the hotel. Day at leisure.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Please note: vehicle/driver not available.
Day 8 | Wadduwa
Breakfast at the hotel.
Day at leisure to relax.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel.
Please note: vehicle/driver not available.
Day 9 | Wadduwa - Colombo
Breakfast at the hotel.
Morning at leisure at the hotel and transfer to Colombo airport for your return flight (you need to be at the airport 3 hours before the flight departs).
We wish you a pleasant journey back… Ayubowan! And long life!
Please note: Distance from Wadduwa hotel to Colombo airport: approx. 75 km, about 1 hour 30 minutes by car.
Your accommodation
During this 8-night tour, you will stay in the hotels listed below (or similar, depending on availability):
Kandalama: 4 nights at the 4-star Amba Yaalu
Wadduwa: 4 nights at the 4-star The Villas Wadduwa
Your board
During your tour, you will enjoy a half-board package, starting from dinner on the day of arrival to breakfast on the day of departure.
FORMALITIES FOR ENTERING SRI LANKA
Access to Sri Lankan territory is subject to the issuance of an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). Applications can be made online at http://www.eta.gov.lk/ or in person at the BIA office at the airport upon arrival.
Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, visitors must present a passport valid for at least six months after their entry date, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for the duration of their stay.
Travellers planning to visit India, Sri Lanka and then return to India are advised to check Indian tourist visa regulations (see the British government's "Foreign travel advice" for India: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/india).