Sri Lanka itinerary: 10 days
This private ten-day route combines ancient cities, hill country, wildlife and time on the south-west coast. The ten days are your tour days in Sri Lanka: allow separately for your international journey.
| Day | Route | Itinerary overview |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Colombo → Sigiriya | Early morning, meet your guide in Colombo and drive to your hotel in Sigiriya; en route, explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura. |
| 2 | Sigiriya → Minneriya → Polonnaruwa → Sigiriya | Early morning, do the hike at Sigiriya rock fortress and then drive to Polonnaruwa. In the afternoon, go on a safari at Minneriya National Park. |
| 3 | Sigiriya → Matale → Kandy | After breakfast, drive to the hotel in Kandy, stopping en route at Dambulla Golden Temple and the spice garden. |
| 4 | Kandy → Nuwara Eliya | After breakfast drive to the scenic hill country city of Nuwara eliya, en route, stop at tea gardens, a tea factory and waterfalls. |
| 5 | Nuwara Eliya → Horton Plains → Nuwara Eliya | Early morning visit to the last remaining cloud forest of Sri Lanka, Horton Plains national park. In the afternoon, a self-guided tour of Nuwara Eliya city. |
| 6 | Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Yala | After breakfast, drive to the hotel in Yala, stopping en route to visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Mini Adam's Peak. Check in at the hotel and enjoy some leisure time. |
| 7 | Yala → South-West Coast | Early morning in Yala National Park, then drive to the beach hotel. |
| 8 | South-west Coast | Beach Relaxation & Ocean Adventures |
| 9 | South-west Coast | Extended Beach & Cultural Exploration |
| 10 | South-west Coast → Galle → Colombo | After breakfast, drive to Colombo airport. |
Is ten days enough?
Ten days fits this route, but it is not ten days of beach relaxation. The itinerary includes early starts, sightseeing, hiking and transfers, followed by coastal leisure days. Check the detailed schedule below before choosing your dates.
What is included in the price?
Compare the existing Standard, Comfort and Luxury rates below, quoted per person for twin sharing or single occupancy. Read both the included and excluded lists: an activity on the route is not automatically included. Minneriya safari, lunch and drinks are listed as exclusions.
Travelling from the UK, Europe, the US, Canada or Australia?
The tour starts and ends in Colombo, so it works whichever country you fly from. Count the ten days from your arrival in Sri Lanka and add your flight days separately. Prices and payments are in USD; EUR amounts are shown as an indication for European travellers.
Send your arrival date, departure date, number of travellers and preferred hotel category using the enquiry form below to request this itinerary and your exact quote.
See the full itinerary, package prices and enquiry form
All-inclusive Sri Lanka Private 10-Day Round Tour Car, Guide, Hotels, Food, Entrance Tickets
This comprehensive 10-day private tour is the ultimate Sri Lankan experience, taking you on a journey through the island's most treasured landscapes and cultural wonders. From ancient UNESCO-listed cities and wildlife safaris to misty tea plantations and pristine beaches, this itinerary captures the full spectrum of Sri Lanka's magic. Travel in the comfort of a private vehicle with an expert English-speaking guide, enjoying the flexibility and personalised attention that make this journey truly special. This trip covers everything: transport, hotels, 2 meals daily, a local guide, and entrance fees. You won't run into any surprise costs along the way, unless you decide to opt into any extra activities.
Lock in your spot with just 20% down
Pay the remaining 80% when you arrive in Sri Lanka.
Planning your trip? Check your preferred dates before booking.
Explore with a local expert
Your private tour is led by a knowledgeable Sri Lankan guide who knows the roads, culture, and hidden stops. They'll handle the details, share stories along the way, and adapt the day to your pace.
Tour Gallery
Tour Highlights
- The "Eighth Wonder of the World" – a 5th-century rock citadel rising 200 meters with ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and panoramic views that will take your breath away.
- Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destination with one of the world's highest leopard densities, plus elephants, sloth bears, and abundant birdlife – an unforgettable game drive.
- One of the world's most beautiful train journeys – winding through tea plantations, misty mountains, and over the iconic Nine Arch Bridge – a bucket-list experience.
- Visit three ancient capitals – Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy – with sacred temples, colossal stupas, and royal palaces spanning over a millennium of history.
- Walk through emerald tea plantations in "Little England," and hike Horton Plains to World's End – a sheer 1,200-meter cliff drop with views across the island.
- Private driver-guide — a seamless, personalized journey throughout
- Colonial charm — the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
- Culture & cuisine — temple visits, a cooking class, and a Kandyan cultural show
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Colombo → Sigiriya
Early morning, meet your guide in Colombo and drive to your hotel in Sigiriya; en route, explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura.
- Morning:
- 7:00 AM – Pickup from your Colombo hotel or Bandaranaike International Airport
- Drive to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and a sacred UNESCO World Heritage city
- Explore the sprawling ruins including the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree (the oldest documented tree in the world), the massive Ruwanwelisaya Stupa, and ancient monastic complexes
- Afternoon:
- Continue drive to Sigiriya (approx. 1.5 hours from Anuradhapura)
- Check in to your hotel in the Sigiriya/Habarana area
- Evening:
- Relax and prepare for the adventures ahead
- Overnight stay in Sigiriya
Day 2: Sigiriya → Minneriya → Polonnaruwa → Sigiriya
Early morning, do the hike at Sigiriya rock fortress and then drive to Polonnaruwa. In the afternoon, go on a safari at Minneriya National Park.
- Morning:
- Rise early to climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress – a 5th-century "Eighth Wonder of the World" rising 200 meters above the plains, featuring ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and breathtaking panoramic views
- Visit the nearby Pidurangala Rock for a different perspective and fewer crowds
- Afternoon:
- Explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and UNESCO World Heritage site
- Discover the Royal Palace ruins, the Gal Vihara rock temple with its magnificent Buddha statues, and the well-preserved remains of this 12th-century city
- Evening:
- Embark on a thrilling Minneriya National Park 4x4 safari – witness large herds of elephants gathering around the Minneriya Tank, especially during the dry season (July–October)
- Return to Sigiriya for overnight stay.
Day 3: Sigiriya → Matale → Kandy
After breakfast, drive to the hotel in Kandy, stopping en route at Dambulla Golden Temple and the spice garden.
- Morning:
- Depart Sigiriya and drive toward Kandy
- Stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring five caves with over 150 Buddha statues and intricate murals
- Afternoon:
- Visit the Matale Spice Garden – a fragrant and educational tour where you'll discover Sri Lanka's famous spices and their uses
- Visit the Nalanda Gedige, an ancient architectural marvel blending Hindu and Buddhist styles
- Arrive in Kandy, the cultural capital nestled among rolling hills
- Evening:
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) – one of Buddhism's holiest sites housing Lord Buddha's tooth relic
- Witness a vibrant Kandyan Cultural Dance Performance featuring traditional drumming, fire-walking, and elaborate costumes
- Overnight stay in Kandy
Day 4: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast drive to the scenic hill country city of Nuwara eliya, en route, stop at tea gardens, a tea factory and waterfalls.
- Morning:
- Explore Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens – a 147-acre paradise featuring orchids, giant fig trees, and tropical flora from around the world
- Visit the Gem Museum to learn about Sri Lanka's precious stone industry
- Afternoon:
- Drive to Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as "Little England"
- Stop at Ramboda Falls, one of Sri Lanka's tallest waterfalls cascading through the hills
- Visit a Tea Plantation and Tea Factory – learn the art of Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup, and enjoy a freshly brewed tasting
- Evening:
- Explore Nuwara Eliya's colonial charm: Gregory Lake, Victoria Park, the Old Post Office, and the Golf Club
- Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya → Horton Plains → Nuwara Eliya
Early morning visit to the last remaining cloud forest of Sri Lanka, Horton Plains national park. In the afternoon, a self-guided tour of Nuwara Eliya city.
- Morning (Early Start):
- 5:00 AM – Depart for Horton Plains National Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site and the highest plateau in Sri Lanka
- Hike the famous trail to World's End – a sheer cliff with a 1,200-meter drop offering views across the southern plains
- Spot wildlife, including sambar deer, endemic birds, and unique montane flora
- Visit Baker's Falls, a picturesque waterfall within the park
- Afternoon:
- Return to Nuwara Eliya
- Visit Seetha Amman Kovil – a Hindu temple believed to be where Sita was held captive in the Ramayana epic
- Continue exploring the town's colonial architecture and cool-climate ambiance
- Evening:
- Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya
Day 6: Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Yala
After breakfast, drive to the hotel in Yala, stopping en route to visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Mini Adam's Peak. Check in at the hotel and enjoy some leisure time.
- Morning:
- Visit Gregory Lake for morning views
- Board the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella – often described as one of the world's most beautiful train journeys, winding through tea plantations, misty mountains, and dramatic valleys
- Afternoon:
- Arrive in Ella and explore:
- Nine Arch Bridge – a stunning colonial-era viaduct tucked into the jungle
- Little Adam's Peak – a short hike offering panoramic valley views
- Ravana Falls – a spectacular waterfall accessible for photos
- Evening:
- Drive to Yala/Tissamaharama area (approx. 3 hours)
- Overnight stay near Yala National Park
Day 7: Yala → South-West Coast
Early morning in Yala National Park, then drive to the beach hotel.
- Morning (Early Start):
- 6:00 AM – Embark on a Yala National Park Jeep Safari – Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife reserve, home to one of the world's highest leopard densities
- Spot elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, water buffalo, and numerous bird species
- Explore the park's diverse terrain – open plains, marshes, and forests
- Afternoon:
- Check out and drive to the South Coast
- Visit Buduruwagala Rock Temple en route – a 10th-century rock temple with massive Buddha statues
- Arrive at your coastal resort on
- Evening:
- Relax on golden sands and watch the Indian Ocean sunset
- Overnight stay on the South-west Coast.
Day 8: South-west Coast
Beach Relaxation & Ocean Adventures
- Full Day at Leisure – Choose Your Activities:
- Whale Watching (November–April) – one of the world's best places to spot blue whales and sperm whales
- Surfing – at Mirissa, Weligama (beginners), or Hiriketiya (more advanced)
- Relaxation – simply unwind on palm-fringed beaches
- Snorkeling or Swimming in the warm Indian Ocean
- Visit the iconic Stilt Fishermen along the coast
- Evening:
- Enjoy fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant
- Overnight stay on the South-west Coast
Day 9: South-west Coast
Extended Beach & Cultural Exploration
- Full Day at Leisure:
- Optional Activities:
- Visit Galle Fort – a UNESCO World Heritage site with Dutch colonial architecture, cobbled lanes, art galleries, and ocean-view cafés
- Sea Turtle Hatchery – visit a conservation project where you can see baby turtles
- Beach hopping between Mirissa, Unawatuna, and Hiriketiya
- Yoga or wellness at one of the many coastal retreats
- Evening:
- Enjoy a farewell coastal dinner under the stars
- Overnight stay on the South-west Coast
Day 10: South-west Coast → Galle → Colombo
After breakfast, drive to Colombo airport.
- Morning:
- Drive to Galle and immerse yourself in the Galle Dutch Fort – a living UNESCO World Heritage site
- Walk the ramparts with ocean views, explore cobbled streets, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy the atmosphere of this historic city
- Afternoon:
- Return to Colombo (approx. 2.5 hours drive)
- Enjoy a Colombo City Tour – visit the Fort district, Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, and local markets
- Evening:
- Drop-off at your Colombo hotel or Bandaranaike International Airport
- End of your unforgettable 10-day Sri Lanka journey
Included
- 9 nights standard hotel accommodation
- 9 breakfasts and dinners
- Entrance fees Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Temple of the Tooth, Yala/Udawalawe safaris
- Dambulla Cave Temple guided tour
- Tooth relic temple guided tour
- Sigiriya rock fortress guided tour
- Ananda Gedige
- Spice garden guided tour
- Hindu temple Matale
- Gem museum and Kandyan cultural show
- Nuwara Eliya city tour
- Tickets for the hill country train
- Mini Adams Peak and nine arch bridge tour
- Driver meals & accommodation
- All governemnt taxes
Not Included
- Expenses in personal nature
- Lunch and drinks
- Tips and gratuities
- Minneriya safari
Payment policy
Confirm your booking with a 20% deposit. Pay the remaining 80% balance on arrival in Sri Lanka.
Cancellation policy
Cancel at least 15 days before departure for free cancellation and a full refund of your deposit.
For cancellations 14 days or fewer before departure, your 20% deposit is non-refundable.
Things to Know Before Booking
- Horton Plains – Requires very early departure (5:00 AM) and cold-weather clothing. The park is closed in February for maintenance
- Safari Timing – Morning safaris (6:00 AM) offer the best wildlife sightings; afternoon safaris provide excellent photography light
- Train Tickets – The Nanu Oya–Ella train is in extremely high demand. We book reserved seats at least 2-3 weeks ahead. Only a 50% chance of securing tickets
- Clothing – Modest dress for temples (shoulders and knees covered); warm layers for Nuwara Eliya and Horton Plains (can drop to 5°C); swimwear and light beach clothing for the coast
- Footwear – Comfortable walking/hiking shoes essential for Sigiriya, Horton Plains, and temple visits
- Essentials – Camera, binoculars, sunscreen, insect repellent, rain gear, motion-sickness pills (for winding hill roads)
- Water – Drink only bottled water; avoid tap water
- Sun Protection – Strong tropical sun throughout the route – hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen essential
- Travel Time Reality – Sri Lanka's roads are winding, and distances take longer than maps suggest. This itinerary has been designed with realistic travel times
- Early Starts – Many days require early starts (6:00-7:00 AM) to maximize sightseeing time and avoid heat
- Entrance Fees – Not included in the packages. Budget approximately: Sigiriya ($35), Anuradhapura ($30), Polonnaruwa ($30), Minneriya Safari ($70), Yala Safari ($80), Botanical Gardens ($12)
Frequently Asked Questions
Select Package Type
Infants (0-5 years): free of charge when sharing their parents' room. Children (6-12 years) pay 75% of the adult rate when sharing their parents' room. Children needing their own room are charged the adult rate.
EUR prices are approximate; final quotes and payments are in USD.
Number of Travelers
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Booking Summary
Request a quote
Ask about All-inclusive Sri Lanka Private 10-Day Round Tour Car, Guide, Hotels, Food, Entrance Tickets. The quote is free. A 20% deposit is required to confirm a booking; the remaining 80% is payable on arrival.
Planning Your Trip
- Best time to visit Sri Lanka →
Month-by-month weather & region guide.
- How many days do you need? →
4, 7, 10 or 14 days — what fits each length.
- What to pack for Sri Lanka →
Complete packing checklist by season.
- Sri Lanka ETA visa guide →
How to apply, fees, and requirements.
Traveller reviews of this trip
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