Sri Lanka Revealed Private Tour- 9d/8n

Page updated – 25 September 25

Tour Introduction

The perfect introductory private tour featuring Sri Lanka’s highlights.

This 9d/8n private tour, features 2 nt stays throughout, including the vibrant capital Colombo, the charming cultural Buddhist city of Kandy; the beauty of the colonial British highland tea region around Nuwara Eliya, and the historical masterpiece of Dutch colonial Galle.
This tour offers travellers a delightful balance between free leisure time and included essential site visits. It also features a scenically awesome train ride between Kandy & Nanu Oya.
Choose between ‘MODEST’ accom (3-3+ star); ‘PLUSH’ (4-4+ star) or ‘DREAMY’ (5 star to luxury). You can request your preferences and we’ll create your bespoke itinerary.
Ideally take this tour is between December and early April. This tour offers daily departures & mixes well with our Bhutan, Nepal and India private tours.

Bhutan & Beyond adds Sri Lanka.

Tour Itinerary Overview.

2 nts in vibrant Colombo – exploring the history, culture & markets.
2 nts Kandy – a sacred Buddhist hill city. Visit the Temple of the Tooth & Royal Botanic Gardens. Walk/hike through Udewatta Kele Nature Sanctuary.
Awesome scenic morning train ride between Kandy & Nanu Oya.
2 nts Nuwara Eliya– a British colonial era town in the high altitude tea country.
2 nts Galle, the celebrated old Dutch colonial town & home to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of old Galle Fort. Walk the old fort ramparts and options to visit key sites plus local beaches.

Private Tour Costs:
Lead in costs detailed below. Please contact Bhutan & Beyond for an accurate quote based on the time of year for your proposed journey, your preferred standard of accom and rooming requirements.

Prices From: Based on per person twin/double share.

MODEST from: @USD1718.00 pp twin/double share
PLUSH from: @USD2064.00 pp twin/double share
DREAMY from: @USD2676.00 pp twin/double share

OR CALL BHUTAN & BEYOND ON
0412 416 111 James & 0413 598 669 Nicola

ENQUIRE NOW or REQUEST A QUOTE

Why Book with Bhutan & Beyond?

Bhutan & Beyond have joined forces with Experiential Journeys in Sri Lanka, who bring to us their 22 years experience, service & knowledge.
Bhutan & Beyond has access to Experiential Journeys private English-speaking expert guides/drivers.
This private tour affords you time to immerse yourself in the vibrant cultures of Sri Lanka.
We offer the option to choose between ‘Modest’ 3-3+ star, ‘Plush’ (4-4+ star) & ‘Dreamy’ (5*-luxury) grade accommodation.
Our trademark Bhutan & Beyond exceptional service.
Well constructed & flexible itineraries to suit your personal requirements with tented safari/glamping optional extensions.
Experts at combining Sri Lanka with Bhutan , India & Nepal.
ATIA (formerly ATAS) Accredited via our parent company MTA Travel.
Access to our exclusive & celebrated travel app COMPANION.

Your Land Package Inclusions

English speaking guide/driver throughout with private air-conditioned vehicle.
2 nights accommodation in Colombo incl breakfasts.
2 nights accommodation Kandy incl breakfasts.
Train journey Kandy to Nuwara Eliya.
2 nights accommodation Nuwara Eliya incl breakfasts.
Day Excursion to Horton Plains National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
2 nights accommodation in Galle including breakfasts.
All touring & transfers as per your itinerary.
Bottled Water Daily
Entrance fees as per your itinerary, except those listed as optional.
Sri Lanka Government taxes.
Bhutan & Beyond bank transfer fees for payments to Sri Lankan suppliers.

Your Land Package Excludes:

International airfares to/from Sri Lanka
Lunches & Dinners at own expense.
Personal bank charges incurred making payments to Bhutan & Beyond.
Personal items incl laundry, souvenirs, drinks, designer coffee’s telephone calls, tips & porterage etc.
Travel insurance which is essential when travelling to Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka Revealed Private Tour Itinerary

Day 1:

Arrive Colombo:

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by our Chauffeur/Guide at the Arrival Lounge. Following a brief introduction, you will travel to Colombo and check in to your hotel, where you can relax and settle in before the journey begins.

Travel Time: 1 Hour

Overnight Colombo options: Fairway Colombo Hotel (‘Modest’ 3-star in a deluxe room) or Galle Face Hotel (‘Plush’ 4-star in a seaview room) or Uga Residence (‘Dreamy’ Luxury boutique in a Park Suite room).

Day 2:

Exploring Colombo

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before setting out for a full day dedicated to exploring Colombo, the vibrant commercial capital of Sri Lanka. A dynamic blend of cultures, history, and commerce, Colombo has long been a significant port—once visited by Arab traders and later colonized by the Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Today, the city offers a rich array of experiences. Visit remarkable cultural landmarks, including Buddhist temples and Hindu Kovils, reflecting the country’s diverse religious and ethnic heritage. Drive through the historic ‘Fort’ area, where colonial-era buildings stand alongside contemporary hotels and office towers. Wander through the bustling markets and bazaars of Pettah, uncover the treasures of local museums and art centres, or simply enjoy shopping and sampling authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.

Day 3:

Colombo to Kandy; up to 4 hrs drive time.

After breakfast, begin your journey to Kandy—a picturesque city nestled in the central highlands, known as the Hill Capital of Sri Lanka and the final stronghold of the Sinhala kings. Steeped in timeless grandeur, Kandy is surrounded by lush green hills and centered around a tranquil lake. It is home to two of the island’s most treasured landmarks: the sacred Temple of the Tooth and the Royal Botanical Gardens, which feature an exceptional collection of orchids.

The city and its surrounding villages are also renowned as a center for traditional arts, crafts, and some of the country’s most captivating cultural dances.

Upon arrival, you’ll check in to your room and the rest of the day is at leisure. Consider spending an hour or two at the nearby Udawatta Kele Nature Sanctuary close to the city. You can arrange for your guide and car to drop you off and pick you up again and spend time on your own doing the walks., Explore the myriad of walking/hiking trails and encounter birds, monkeys, Caves with paintings and other flora & fauna.

Overnight Kandy options: Thilanka Hotel (‘Modest’ 3-star in a deluxe room) or Mountbatten Bungalow (‘Plush’ 4-star in a bungalow room) or W15 Hantana Resort (‘Dreamy’ Luxury boutique in a Stable Suite room).

Day 4:

Exploring Kandy

Following breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the renowned Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya.

Located just 6 km from Kandy, this botanical haven is one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated attractions and ranks among the most beautiful gardens in all of Asia. Spanning 147 acres, the Royal Botanical Garden is a paradise for plant lovers, home to an impressive collection of over 4,000 plant species—including more than 300 varieties of exotic orchids, towering palm avenues, vibrant flowering trees, spices, and medicinal plants. The gardens are beautifully maintained by the Division of National Botanic Gardens and also house the National Herbarium.
As you stroll through this lush landscape, don’t miss the Avenue of Royal Palms, one of the most photographed paths in the country, or the Cannonball Tree, planted in 1901 by King George V and Queen Mary of the United Kingdom, known for its striking fruit that resembles cannonballs.

After the garden tour, your vehicle will be at your disposal for optional sightseeing around Kandy. You may wish to explore the bustling city center, browse handicraft shops, or enjoy a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake.

Later this evening (or include this visit during the afternoon if you prefer), make a short journey to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)—a place of immense spiritual and historical significance. Believed to house the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, the temple complex dates back to the 16th century and has been beautifully maintained and expanded over the centuries. The temple’s inner sanctum, where the relic is enshrined in a golden casket, is the focal point of daily worship and elaborate rituals. The walls of the temple are adorned with detailed Kandyan-style frescoes and wood carvings, offering a glimpse into the rich cultural and artistic heritage of Sri Lanka. Visiting during the evening allows you to witness the ceremonial rituals, accompanied by traditional drumming and chanting, which create a deeply immersive spiritual experience.

To complete your evening, you’ll attend a vibrant Kandyan Cultural Show (optional), held at a local theater nearby. This performance showcases the island’s traditional dance forms and music, brought to life by talented local performers dressed in colorful, ornate costumes. Expect to see classical Kandyan dances, rhythmic drumming, fire-walking, and acrobatic performances that reflect centuries-old rituals and folklore. The show is not just entertainment—it’s a vivid expression of Sri Lanka’s living heritage, offering a deeper appreciation for the island’s cultural identity.

Day 5:

Kandy – Nuwara Eliya 3.5-4.5 hrs by train and 15 mins by car

After breakfast, check out from the hotel around 9:30 AM and head towards Nuwara Eliya. Your journey begins with a scenic train ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya, offering breathtaking views of misty mountains, lush tea plantations, and cascading waterfalls. This train journey is one of the most picturesque in the world, providing an unforgettable experience as we pass through tunnels and rolling hills, immersing ourselves in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Your guide will drop you at Kandy railway station and upon arrival at Nanu Oya railway station, will meet you and proceed to Nuwara Eliya by short drive and check into your hotel.

Later in the evening, take a leisurely guided stroll through this charming town (option to do this on your own without guide if preferred), known for its colonial-era bungalows, serene landscapes, and cool climate. Often referred to as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is famous for its lush green tea estates, scenic lakes, and fresh mountain air, making it a perfect escape into Sri Lanka’s highlands.

Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. It is the home of the famous Ceylon Tea, and the rolling mountains are a carpet of velvety green tea plantations, interspersed with gushing streams and tumbling waterfalls. The salubrious climate, misty glens, and decidedly British character make Nuwara Eliya a must on any Sri Lankan travel itinerary.

Overnight Nuwara Eliya options: Galway Heights Hotel (‘Modest’ 3-star in a deluxe room) or Grand Hotel (‘Plush’ 4-star in a deluxe room) or Heritance Tea Factory Hotel (‘Dreamy’ 5-star in a Superior room).

Day 6:

Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains Roundtrip Day Excursion

Approx 1 hr drive time each way.

With a packed breakfast in hand, embark on an exhilarating adventure to Horton Plains National Park, a mystical landscape teeming with upcountry wildlife. More than just a wildlife haven, Horton Plains feels like stepping into another world, with breathtaking scenery that captivates at every turn.
Perched at 2194 metres above sea level, Horton Plains is Sri Lanka’s highest plateau, offering a stunning mix of mountains, grasslands, marshes, and trout-filled streams. The region is home to some of the island’s finest high-grown teas, and it’s cool, invigorating climate makes it a paradise for nature lovers. The highlight of our journey is World’s End, a dramatic cliff where the land drops nearly 305 metres in a sheer, awe-inspiring plunge, offering one of the most spectacular views in Sri Lanka. The plains are adorned with unique flora, colorful butterflies, and rare highland birds, making this an unforgettable experience.

On arrival embark on a relatively flat & easy hike of 7-8 kms through the park, taking 2-3 hrs. Sambar Deer are in numbers in the park. Leopards are in the park but a luxury to spot in this region. After the hike, return to the hotel in Nuwara Eliya for some relaxation before heading out in the evening to visit a traditional tea factory. Sri Lanka’s hill country is world-famous for its Ceylon tea, and this visit offers a firsthand look at the intricate process of tea production. You’ll witness how delicate leaves are carefully processed before indulging in a freshly brewed cup of pure Ceylon tea, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of rolling tea plantations.

Day 7:

Nuwara Eliya-Galle; drive time approx 4 hrs

This morning transfer by road to Galle and on arrival, check in to your hotel and take an hour or two at leisure.

Mid-afternoon, visit the historic Galle Fort. Believed by some to be the biblical Tarshish from which King Solomon sourced gems and spices, this “living” UNESCO World Heritage Site marks the location where the Portuguese first arrived in Sri Lanka in 1505. Later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th and 18th centuries, the fort still exudes the charm of old Holland.

The well-preserved fort, built in 1663, offers a captivating array of Dutch-era architecture and within its ramparts you’ll find centuries-old churches, a grand gateway dating back to 1669, and charming Dutch houses lining narrow lanes that still carry their original names.

Galle Fort’s blend of colonial elegance, historical significance, and boutique charm makes it a truly important and worthy destination.

Overnight Galle Options: Ladyhill Hotel (‘Modest’ 3-star in a Standard room) or Le Grand Hotel (‘Plush’ 4-star in a Deluxe room) or Fort Bazaar Hotel (‘Dreamy’ Luxury Boutique in a Bazaar room).

Day 8:

Exploring Galle

Breakfast at the hotel and take the morning at lesiure.

Choose your afternoon activities from one of the following, or take the rest of the day at leisure.

Walk the ramparts of the old Galle fort walls
Enjoy an afternoon excursion to a nearby beach such as Unawatuna (very swimmable beach with soft sand and lively atmosphere) or Dalawella (more tranquil & relaxed)
Engage in a brief tour of Galles main sites (aside from the historic fort area) such as the Maritime Museum, Dutch Reformed Church, a drive by of major beaches, & the Galle International Cricket Stadium;
OR today’s afternoon highlight option is the Galle Cinnamon Experience — an immersive, hands-on journey into the world of Ceylon Cinnamon. You’ll visit a picturesque, fully operational cinnamon estate nestled amidst the lush greenery of Galle’s countryside. Here, you will gain unique insight into the life of a cinnamon farmer and discover every stage of this centuries-old craft — from planting and nurturing the cinnamon trees, to the careful art of harvesting and expertly processing the delicate bark. This fascinating experience reveals the rich heritage and meticulous work behind producing true Ceylon Cinnamon, celebrated worldwide for its exceptional quality and distinctive aroma. By the end of the tour, you’ll have a deeper appreciation for why this prized spice continues to be one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured exports.

Depending on your choice a minor cost amendment may be required.

Overnight Galle Options: Ladyhill Hotel (‘Modest’ 3-star in a standard room) or Le Grand Hotel (‘Plush’ 4-star in a deluxe room) or Fort Bazaar Hotel (‘Dreamy’ Luxury Boutique in a Bazaar room).

Day 9:

Galle – Colombo Airport – approx 2-3 hrs drive time

Breakfast at your hotel before your transfer from Galle to Colombo Airport.

Depending on your flight departure time you may need to arrange a day use room in Galle or Negombo area (near airport) and/or spend some more time in Colombo city en-route to the airport.

End of tour arrangements.

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