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- Sri Lanka Classic Discovery Tour
- 9 Nights / 10 days
Sri Lanka Classic Discovery Tour
Overview
Embark on a 10-day discovery tour of Sri Lanka, offering a diverse mix of rich experiences. Immerse yourself in the vibrant energy of Colombo, then explore the Cultural Triangle, where you can marvel at the ancient wonders of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Ritigala. Visit the stunning Dambulla Cave Temple before heading to Kandy to experience the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. Conclude your journey by unwinding on the pristine beaches of Ahungalle, blending history, culture, and relaxation.
Read full itinerary
Average temperature and rainfall
29
Temperature
150
Rainfall
Tour Highlights
- Visit the spectacular Sigiriya fortress.
- Visit the cave Temple in Dambulla.
- Visit the famed Temple of sacred tooth while in Kandy.
- Enjoy stay in a spectacular beach resort in Bentota.
Tour Route - Where you'll visit
1Colombo
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Colombo is the bustling capital city located on the island's west coast. It serves as the economic and cultural hub of the country, blending colonial heritage with modern urban development. The city is known for its vibrant street markets, such as Pettah Market, and key landmarks like the Colombo National Museum, which houses a rich collection of historical artifacts. Colombo’s waterfront area, including Galle Face Green, offers scenic views and recreational spaces. The city is also home to historic sites like the Dutch Reformed Church and the Old Parliament Building. Colombo’s diverse culture, lively atmosphere, and blend of old and new make it a dynamic destination for travelers.
2Dambulla
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Dambulla is a town in the Matale District renowned for its impressive cave temples and historical significance. The Dambulla Cave Temple complex, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is one of the best-preserved cave temple sites in Sri Lanka and features a series of richly decorated caves with vibrant murals and numerous Buddha statues. The temples are set within a massive rock and offer panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. Dambulla is also close to the ancient city of Sigiriya and the ruins of the historic Polonnaruwa Kingdom, making it a key stop for those exploring Sri Lanka’s cultural and historical heritage.
3Kandy
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Kandy is a historic city located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, known for its cultural significance and scenic beauty. It is renowned for being the last capital of the ancient Sinhala kings and is a UNESCO World Heritage site. One of Kandy's most prominent landmarks is the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a sacred relic of the Buddha and is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists.
4Bentota
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Bentota is a coastal town known for its beautiful beaches and tranquil atmosphere. Situated along the Bentota River and the Indian Ocean, it offers a perfect blend of sun, sand, and water activities. The town is famous for its pristine sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports like jet skiing and windsurfing. Bentota is also renowned for its river cruises and scenic boat rides through mangroves and lush landscapes. The town features luxury resorts, charming guesthouses, and vibrant local markets. Bentota’s serene environment and picturesque settings make it a popular destination for relaxation and beach vacations.
Detailed Itinerary
- DAY 01: ARRIVAL COLOMBO (40KMS/1HR)
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, a Globe Travel Centre representative will warmly welcome you and escort you to your hotel. Colombo, an often-overlooked gem, seamlessly blends colonial charm with contemporary elegance, offering a vibrant art scene, exquisite cuisine, and luxury shopping at great value. Take time to relax and unwind. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Colombo city in the afternoon. Visit cultural and historical landmarks such as the Colombo National Museum, the Dutch Period Museum, and the iconic Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple. For a unique shopping experience, explore the bustling Pettah district, where street vendors and traders offer an array of goods at great prices. Overnight at The Hilton Colombo.
- DAY 02: COLOMBO – HABARANA (180KMS/4HRS)
Drive to Habarana, a picturesque town in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, renowned as a gateway to the historic sites of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Dambulla. Nestled amid lush greenery and tranquil lakes. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to relax. Overnight at the Cinnamon Lodge.
- DAY 03: HABARANA - POLONNARUWA - HABARANA
Today you will explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, set beside the impressive man-made lake, Parakrama Samudraya, built by King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186 AD). Discover its remarkable ruins, including the exquisitely carved Vatadage, considered one of the country’s finest architectural masterpieces, and the awe-inspiring Gal Vihara, home to the renowned 5-meter-long reclining Buddha. Visit the Polonnaruwa Museum to gain deeper insights into the city's rich history. On your return journey, embark on an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, where large herds of wild elephants gather along the lake’s shores to drink and bathe. Return to Habarana for overnight stay at Cinnamon Lodge. (Habarana – Polonnaruwa: 43 Km/ 1hr – one way)
- DAY 04: HABARANA - SIGIRIYA - RITIGALA - HABARANA
This morning, visit the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landmarks. Rising 200 meters above the surrounding plains, this ancient rock citadel was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century and features stunning frescoes, the famous Mirror Wall, and the majestic Lion’s Paws that lead to the summit. At the top, enjoy panoramic views of the lush landscape and explore the ruins of the once-magnificent royal palace. After an enriching experience, return to your hotel by noon.
In the afternoon, drive to Ritigala, a mysterious mountain shrouded in dense forest, steeped in legend and history. Believed to have ties to the ancient Ramayana epic, it is also home to the ruins of Buddhist monasteries and meditation caves. After exploring this serene and historic site, return to your hotel. Overnight at the Cinnamon Lodge.
- DAY 05: HABARANA - KANDY (80KMS/2.5Hrs)
Travel to Kandy, stopping en route to explore the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temples, home to hundreds of intricately carved and painted statues, including massive reclining Buddhas, beautifully detailed deities, and stunning murals adorning the walls. Visit a spice garden in Matale is a must, where you can discover a variety of spices grown and learn about their culinary and medicinal uses. Continue your journey to Kandy and check into your hotel. Overnight at the Grand Kandyan.
- DAY 06: KANDY
This morning, travel to Peradeniya to explore the Royal Botanical Gardens, a stunning 150-acre oasis nestled along a bend of the Mahaweli River. Established in 1821, the gardens boast a remarkable collection of over 300 orchid varieties, along with spices, medicinal plants, and towering palm trees. In the afternoon, embark on a city tour of Kandy, visiting the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth, which is believed to enshrine a relic of the Buddha. Conclude your day with a captivating cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dance performances. Overnight at the Grand Kandyan.
- DAY 07: KANDY - AHUNGALLE (180KMS/4.5HRS
This morning, after breakfast, check out from the hotel and travel to Ahungalle, a serene coastal town known for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts. Nestled along Sri Lanka’s southwestern coast, Ahungalle offers a peaceful retreat with stunning ocean views and a relaxed ambiance. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the tranquil surroundings. Overnight at the Heritance Ahungalle.
- DAY 08: AHUNGALLE
Spend the day at your leisure, relaxing on the beach and enjoying the coastal beauty of Ahungalle. For a unique experience, you may choose to visit a nearby turtle hatchery, where conservation efforts help protect nesting turtles and ensure the safe release of baby turtles into the ocean (optional). Overnight at the Heritance Ahungalle.
- DAY 09: AHUNGALLE - GALLE - AHUNGALLE
Today, explore the historic port city of Galle, one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable colonial-era landmarks. This charming Dutch-built town, along with its iconic 17th-century fort, provides a captivating glimpse into the island’s colonial past. Wander through its narrow streets lined with old villas, admire the massive bastions and ramparts, and take in breathtaking sunset views over the Indian Ocean. Later, return to your hotel. Overnight at the Heritance Ahungalle. (Ahungalle - Galle: 54Km/ 1 hr - one way)
- DAY 10: AHUNGALLE - COLOMBO - DEPARTURE (121KMS/2.5HRS)
In good time you will be transferred to Colombo international airport to board your onward flight.
When Should I go?
Sri Lanka enjoys a tropical climate, making it a year-round destination. Coastal breezes moderate the heat in the lowlands, while the hill country remains cooler due to its altitude. However, the two monsoon seasons influence travel plans, affecting different regions at different times.
From December to April, the best weather is found along the southern and western coasts, with temperatures around 30°C. This is the ideal time to enjoy the beaches of Weligama and Tangalle, go whale-watching in Mirissa, or explore Galle’s colonial charm.
Average temperatures and rainfall
Monsoon Months in Sri Lanka
The southwest monsoon (May to September) brings humidity and rainfall to the south and west, making the east coast the best option. From April to September, destinations like Trincomalee and Arugam Bay enjoy 25-35°C temperatures and pristine beaches.
Best months for travel to Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka’s hill country (Ella, Nuwara Eliya, and Hatton) stays cooler throughout the year, with temperatures dropping to 17°C—perfect for hiking and tea plantation visits. The Cultural Triangle (Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Anuradhapura) remains largely dry, except for brief showers in November and December.
Pricing Information
The indicative price for this 10-day Sri Lanka Classic Discovery Tour is
From £1960.00 in low season (April 2025 – October 2025)
From £2395.00 in high season (November 2025 – April 2026)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
Meal Plan: Half board.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote.
From £1960.00 in low season (April 2025 – October 2025)
From £2395.00 in high season (November 2025 – April 2026)
The prices do not include flights.
The above mentioned price is per person based on double/twin sharing. The price includes accommodation, transportation as well as sightseeing and activities as mentioned in the itinerary.
Meal Plan: Half board.
The above mentioned high season rates may not be applicable during some of the peak dates in December, January and February.
This is a private tour, which can be customized to suit your specific needs, whether you wish to adjust the accommodation options, add a different destination, or make any other changes. Prices may vary based on factors such as group size, tour duration, accommodation preferences, and the season.
Kindly share your preferred travel dates, and we will be happy to provide a personalized itinerary and an accurate quote.
Tour Image Gallery
Activity Tour- Sri Lanka Classic Discovery Tour
Image Gallery
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Community Projects
Every time you book a holiday with us, we donate to a tangible cause at the destination - from our profits. Not only that, at the time of booking a holiday, we give you a choice of projects that we support and you can choose one that's closest to your hearts.
Ask our local experts to tailor-make this tour
Call Freephone 020 3924 2880 to speak with one of our regional experts based at the destination. Our specialists will share their expertise and also understand, in-depth, what you like on your holidays so as to be able to offer a tailor made itinerary that best meet your requirements and budget.
Get in touch with us
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Speak with our specialist team of local experts
When you are a 100% satisfied with an itinerary that our expert has tailored for you and are ready to book, we will request a booking deposit of £250.00 per person.
(If your booking involves International flights, we request flight charges at the time of booking). Your balance becomes payable 8 weeks before departure.
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Choose the community project you’d like to support
Globe Travel Centre’s business ethos is centred around benefitting communities- which is why every time you book, we donate to a cause from our profits.
At the time of booking, we will give you options of various causes we support at the destination. You can let us know which cause you want us to donate to against your booking.
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Receive your travel documentation
8 weeks before you travel, you will be sent a detailed and customised jute travel pack in our award winning recycled tyre tube bag which also includes other travel essentials.
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Relax, you’re in safe hands
We will be in touch with you on an on-going basis, both before you travel (to check if you have any last minute questions) and also while you are at the destination, where our local offices ensure you have no problems during the holiday.
What’s more, you’ll receive a complimentary mobile phone for the duration of your visit so you can contact us wherever you are.
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