Journey into the Heart of Nature
Ancient temples to tea plantations, 10 days among wild elephants and misty peaks in Sri Lanka
Duration
10 days
From
€960/pers.
Ideal seasons
Jan, Feb, Mar, Dec
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
classique
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends
The spirit of travel
This 10-day itinerary offers us the discovery of Sri Lanka's natural treasures.
We begin the adventure in the Cultural Triangle with the must-see Sigiriya and Dambula. It is an excellent opportunity to explore famous parks such as the Knuckles Mountain Range, Horton Plains or even « little Adam's Peak » and to enjoy exceptional panoramic views of their surroundings.
This ten-day journey allows us to discover the different facets of Sri Lanka, including its beach resorts.
Throughout the trip, we are accompanied by Clara from the WildRoad blog and Mai Globe Travels.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to Sri Lanka
Aéroport international de Bandaranaike → Sigiriya
We land at Bandaranaike Airport in Sigiriya. Clara and the driver welcome us to begin discovering the Cultural Triangle
Along the way, we make sure to stop in Dambulla, a city listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This city is renowned especially for its Golden Temple which houses numerous caves, 5 sanctuaries and 4 main monasteries.
We can admire 157 statues, 153 images of Buddha and magnificent murals that cover 2100 m². We have the possibility to visit the Dambulla wholesale market which is the largest in the country.
The journey continues to Sigiriya.
Check-in at our hotel.
Around Sigiriya
This morning, we set off to discover the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a major tourist attraction listed on the UNESCO World Heritage list.
Sigirîya is an interesting part of the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka. When visiting the site, we find a Sigiriya Fortress that is legendary and allows us to admire the pleasure gardens, the Mirror wall, the Sigiriya Damsels as well as the Kassapa Palace.
Around 3 PM, we head out for a jeep safari in Kaudulla National Park. This park is known for its elephants, which number over 400 individuals. You will also encounter other impressive animals such as buffalo, deer, monitor lizards... Among the birds, cormorants and pelicans are remarkable.
We walk through landscapes of marshes, lakes and mountains.
In the evening, we return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
In the Heart of the Cultural Triangle
We set off early in the morning to witness the magnificent sunrise from the top of the Pidurangala hill, an unmissable archaeological site in the region.
Our morning walk is rewarded by the incredible view of the Sigiriya rock and the Minneriya National Park.
We can see from afar the ruins of a monastery, beautiful Buddha statues as well as caves.
We continue the day towards Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka. It currently constitutes a sacred place for Buddhist pilgrims.
Visit of the famous Temple of the Tooth. This beautiful temple, a major pilgrimage site, is said to house a relic of one of Buddha's canine teeth.
Let us then set off for a walk around Victoria Lake (approximately 4 km).
Trekking in the Knuckles Mountain Range
This day is dedicated to trekking in the Knuckles Mountains Range. The adventure begins by crossing villages with temples, then continuing through the jungle and the tea region.
Immersion in the authentic atmosphere of rural landscapes and plantations.
We climb the Knuckles Mountains before admiring 5 splendid waterfalls.
During the day we cover a total of 20 km on foot and 26 km by tuk-tuk or jeep.
Discovery of Nuwara Eliya
This morning, we join The Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya. This large green space covers 60 hectares and is bounded by the Mahaweli River.
The interest of this natural corner lies in the beauty of its avenue of royal palms, its cannonball trees, its flower beds and its extremely rare orchids. We will wander there for two long hours.
We get back on the road and make a stop at the magnificent Ramboda waterfall.
Possibility of a yoga session in the morning.
We then continue to Nuwara Eliya, a small town nestled high up (at 1800 meters altitude) that boasts a very British charm with its Anglican church and houses with Georgian architecture.
Its mild and pleasant temperatures and its large parks promise an enjoyable walk through the town.
We take the opportunity to visit a tea factory and learn more about the production of this national beverage. We are fortunate to meet the pickers who are delighted to show us their harvesting technique.
Check-in at our hotel.
Horton Plains Hiking
This morning, we take you to the gates of the natural area of the Horton Plains National Park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Over 10km, the marked trail leads you through lush nature to the World's End viewpoint and Bakers Fall, a 20-meter-high waterfall.
We may spot some wild animals that inhabit the forests and plains of these highlands (at altitudes between 2100 and 2300 meters).
We then head to the station to take the train to Haputale.
Before taking the train that takes us from Nanu Oya to Haputale. This is an opportunity to enjoy the splendid green landscapes shaped by tea plantations.
Haputale
Today, we have several options to choose from to spend our day. The guide proposes:
The Ella Rock hike which offers us a sweet blend between plains, river banks and agricultural farms.
The discovery of the Bandarawela countryside. The hike will take us through charming villages, vegetable gardens and rice fields.
Trek through the tea fields. Depending on the trek chosen, we can relax in the fresh waters of a waterfall, cross eucalyptus forests or visit a tea factory.
For lunch, we'll have a picnic.
We continue our day with a walk to the top of the Little Adam's Peak. The hike is very easy, it crosses tea plantations before offering a magnificent view of the surroundings.
Discovery of the famous Demodara new bridge which allows you to see part of the railway. Let's be patient and maybe we'll have the chance to see a train pass by.
Yala
Haputale → Parc national de Yale
This morning, we leave the tea plantation region to reach the wild area of Yala. We take advantage of the relaxed atmosphere of the places to rest a little.
If we wish, we can treat ourselves to a small walk on the Buduruvagala site where we can find in particular Buddhas sculpted in the rock.
Installation in our hotel.
Moment of relaxation at the beach
Parc national de Yale → Unawatuna
Early in the morning, we head to the Yala park for a nature safari by jeep.
The Yala National Park is a vast wild territory where it is possible to observe many species near water points: leopard, crocodile, bear, elephant, mongoose, doe, monkey and various types of birds.
We continue the day and change scenery by heading to Unawatuna beach. We make a short stop to see the lighthouse of Dondra.
In the afternoon, relaxation by the seaside.
Latest Visits to Sri Lanka
Unawatuna → Galle
We explore the city of Gallewhich stands out for its colonial charm, with its typical 17th-century Dutch architecture.
The Galle Fort borrows its architecture from various colonial styles, built in the 17th century, it is located in an isolated part of the city.
With the appearance of a small town, it is a place where a calm and peaceful atmosphere prevails.
We will walk around its ramparts, its lighthouse, one of its churches and its multiple souvenir shops.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International Flights
- Visa fees
- Visits and activities not mentioned in the "included" section
- Tips and Personal Expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Lunches and dinners except as mentioned in the "included" section
- Beverages During Meals
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle transport with an English-speaking driver guide
- Surprise gift upon arrival from fair trade
- Government taxes
- 24/7 team support
- 1.5 days of hiking in the Knuckles region with English-speaking guide
- Hotels in double room
- Parking, gasoline and tolls fees; accommodation and meal expenses for the driver
- English-speaking guide
- Half-day safari by jeep in Kaudulla National Park
- Picnic lunch in the Knuckles Mountain Range
- Entrance fees for Horton Plains and round-trip transfers from Nuwara Eliya
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers from the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Sri Lanka for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Sri Lanka, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada must obtain a Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA – Electronic Travel Authorization) before arriving in Sri Lanka. There is no visa exemption on arrival for a tourist stay.
The ETA can be obtained online via the official Sri Lankan government portal and allows a tourist stay of up to 30 days, with the possibility of extending your stay in the country up to a maximum of 90 days with the Sri Lankan Immigration Department.
Authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a confirmation of accommodation reservation.
Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Before your arrival, you must obtain a Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), issued by Sri Lankan authorities.
This electronic visa must be requested online on the official Sri Lankan government website. Required information includes:
passport information
flight and itinerary details
address of your first accommodation in Sri Lanka
personal information and contact details
The ETA is generally issued within a few hours to a few days. It is recommended to submit your application at least 48 hours before departure. The digital confirmation must be presented to immigration on arrival.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Sri Lanka from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended by health authorities, particularly against:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
rabies (in case of risk activities or extended stay in rural areas).
Precautions against malaria and dengue may be recommended depending on the regions you visit. Consult a doctor or an international vaccination center before your departure.
Traveling with Children
Minors must have their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay and their own ETA.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, a territorial exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should check with the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the full policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for following the proper procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their entire trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Yes, an electronic travel authorization (ETA) is required and must be obtained online before departure (approximately 50 USD, valid for 30 days). A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date is required. Processing is typically fast (within 72 hours). Please verify current requirements on the official Sri Lankan portal.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a bespoke quality trip, budget between 130 and 210 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1,100 euros return) are additional. Sri Lanka combines beaches, culture, nature and tea in a compact territory.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt every itinerary to travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and depart with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage, which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Cultural Triangle
Itinerary Designer in the Heart of Sri Lanka, based in Colombo
Sri Lanka is a country that constantly shifts in scenery and atmosphere. You can go from tea plantations to temples, then to the ocean, while always keeping that sense of gentleness in your journey.
— Catherine
