10 Day Sightseeing Tour

Day 1

When you arrive for your Sri Lanka 10 Day Sightseeing Tour (09 nights/10 days), a representative from our company will be waiting for you at Bandaranaike International Airport.

After that, you’ll be transported to your accommodation in Sigiriya, a historic town, where you may unwind for the rest of the evening.

*Transport time from Airport to Sigiririya: 

Day 2

On the second day of your Sri Lanka 10 day sightseeing tour, you will be escorted to the historic city of Polonnaruwa and Widlife Safari to the Minneriya National Park

Polonnaruwa

Polonnaruwa is the second-oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. After Anuradhapura was destroyed in 993 A.C., Polonnaruwa became Sri Lanka’s second capital. Along with the Chola-constructed Brahmanic structures, it also has the breathtaking remains of Parakramabahu’s magnificent garden city, which was erected in the 12th century. Temples, shrines, castles, and ruins are among the city’s many archaeological gems. Find out all about King Parakramabahu I’s royal residence (1153–1186). The 50-room building, which was formerly very large, still has solid walls. Intricately carved stone elephants flank the walls of the king’s audience hall, while lion sculptures stand watch. In the king’s swimming pool, there are giant freshwater-spitting crocodile mouth statues. The Shiva Devale No. 2 is made of stone and is nestled away in a little forested location. It is the second-oldest Hindu temple in Polonnaruwa.

*Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa Traveling Time: 

Minneriya National Park

Next, we are heading for the Minneriya National Park after exploring the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Many tourists come to this wildlife reserve to observe Sri Lankan elephants. During the dry season, 150–300 wild elephants may gather close to Minneriya Tank. The 888.4-hectare Minneriya National Park is home to several wild animals, including the Sri Lankan Leopard, Sloth Bear, Sri Lankan Sambar Deer, Buffalo, and local monkeys.

You will then be taken back to Sigiriya, where you will spend the night.

Day 3

On the third day, we’ll go to Anuradhapura and Mihintale.

Mihintale

First, we’ll go to Mihintale, a place renowned for its multi-religious population, monarchy, history of battle, and military might. Anuradhapura is 12 kilometers away from Mihintale. Mihintale, a Buddhist monk who thrived in the eleventh century, was known as Mahinda’s Hill in the Sinhalese language. The oldest wildlife sanctuary in the world is located in this city, which has been designated as such for more than 2,200 years. Sri Lankans hold this monument in high regard as the location of a meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa, which officially established Buddhism in Sri Lanka.

Anuradhapura

The Buddha visited the Atamasthana, sometimes referred to as the “Eight Sacred Places,” during his three trips throughout Sri Lanka. Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya, Ruwanwelisaya, Thuparamaya, Lovamahapaya, Abhayagiri Dagaba, Jetavanarama, Mirisaveti Stupa, and Lankarama are a few of the holy sites. They are located in Anuradhapura, which served as the Anuradhapura Kingdom’s previous capital.

Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya: Asoka the Great of India sent his daughter Theri Sangha Mitta to the island with a branch of the Sacred Bodhi, which was cut from the main stem of the Bodhi tree at Bodh Gaya, beneath which Buddha obtained enlightenment after Mahinda Thero, brought Buddhism to Sri Lanka in 250 BC. In 249 BC, King Tissa took the sapling and placed it where it is now.

Ruwanweli Maha Seya– The legendary king Dutugamunu, who ruled from Anuradhapura from 137 BC to 119 BC, constructed Ruwanwelisaya. The Ruwanweli Seya temple is the most revered Buddhist shrine in Anuradhapura, second only to Sri Maha Bodhi. Despite the fact that Ruwanweli Maha Seya is not the largest nor the oldest of the stupas built in Anuradhapura, Buddhists hold it in greater respect than any other important stupa. The largest collection of Gautama Buddha items ever maintained in a Dagaba is located on the island.

Thuparamaya: Since Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka, this is the first stupa to have been constructed there. During the reign of King Devanampiyatissa (250 BC–210 BC), this complex was built, and it had both a stupa and an aramic structure (monastery). More than 3 1/2 acres still contain the complex’s ruins. Thero, who introduced Buddhism to the island, gave the order to erect the stupa to house Lord Buddha’s right collarbone.

Lovamahapaya– Lovamahapaya is a location located halfway between Ruwanweli Seya and Sri Maha Bodhiya. Due to its bronze-tiled roof, it is also known as the Brazen Palace or Lohaprasadaya. It was first constructed by King Dutugamunu about 2000 years ago, but over the decades, it underwent several restorations, each in a less opulent form. Archeological evidence indicates that this magnificent palace, which had nine storeys and could accommodate about 1000 monks and attendants, only has the remains of 1600 of its majestic columns.

Abhayagiri Dagaba–It was constructed throughout King Wattagamini Abhaya’s reign (commonly known as King Valagamba). It is one of the world’s largest archaeological sites as well as a holy Buddhist pilgrimage destination. It was formerly a significant monastic center and the seat of the monarchy, with magnificent monasteries rising to several levels and roofs made of burnt clay tiles painted with exquisite glazes or gilded metal.

Jetavanaramaya– The historic Sri Lankan city of Anuradhapura, which is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to the Jetavanaramaya, a stupa that may be seen among the remnants of the Jetavana Monastery. When Mahavihara collapsed, King Mahasena (273–301 AD) began building the stupa, and his son Meghavanna finished it. [10] According to legend, the artifact kept here is a piece of a belt or sash that the Buddha fastened.

Mirisaveti Stupa–After defeating King Elara, King Dutugamunu constructed the Mirisaveti Stupa. He left the Buddha artifacts within the sceptre after placing them there and traveled to Tisawewa to take a bath. After taking a bath, he went back to the location of the sceptre, but it is claimed that it remained still. A stupa stood where the sceptre had formerly stood. According to reports, he remembered having a hot dinner without sharing any with the sangha. In order to exact revenge, he built the Mirisavetiya Dagaba.

Lankarama: At the ancient location of Galhebakada, King Valagamba built the stupa known as Lankarama in the former Sri Lankan kingdom of Anuradhapura. The stupa’s original appearance before it was renovated is unknown. The fragments reveal rows of stone pillars, indicating that a building was built to encircle and cover the stupa (vatadage).

For a long time, the hallowed city of Anuradhapura significantly influenced the country’s architectural advancement. In 1982, the city was included in the UNESCO list of World Heritage Sites.

A vehicle will return you to the accommodation in Sigiriya after leaving the Atamasthana.

Day 4

On day four of your Sri Lanka 10 Day Sightseeing Tour, you will get the chance to engage in some climbing activities before heading to Kandy, which is famous for its rock fortress, Sigiriya. 

Sigiriya

sometimes known as the “lion rock,” served as the seat of government and the citadel of King Kashyapa. The rock is 180 meters high. The legend surrounding Sigiriya claims that King Kashyapa constructed a gateway in the shape of a massive lion halfway up a cliff. It was known as the “lion rock” because of its form (Sigiriya). The castle was abandoned as a result of the king’s passing. It was still being used as a Buddhist monastery in the fourteenth century. The fortress’s remains are still visible today and have been designated a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

Hiriwadunna

The settlement of Hiriwadunna will be our next destination. The rural community is close to Habarana Town. With only 2500 inhabitants, this lovely, little community serves as a time portal. It is engrossing to see the peasants’ daily activities in this way. You may also go on a bullock cart and boat ride and eat a mouthwatering traditional Sri Lankan meal. 

Dambulla Cave Temple

Then we will stop at the Rangiri Dambulla Cave Temple, commonly known as the Dambulla Golden Temple. The structure, which has five chambers, is Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave temple. A total of 2100 m2 of the walls are covered in murals. There are 157 sculptures in all in the shrine. The existence of the temple is a natural wonder due to the enormous 150 m-tall rock that serves as its ceiling. After substantial repair work, the massive, 15-meter-tall golden statue and pagoda were constructed. The temple is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Spice Garden

Our next trip will be to the Spice Garden, a wonderful place brimming with scents and vegetation. Additionally, you will have the chance to discover the numerous applications of spices in both cuisine and medicine.

Matale Hindu Temple

Our next trip is to the Matale Muthumariamman Temple. The name Muthumariamman is a combination of the words Muthu, which means pearl, Mari, which means rain, and Amman, which means mother. It is a temple dedicated to Mariamman, the Hindu god of fertility and rain. A trip to the temple is enjoyable. Numerous people come to the temple for weddings and religious ceremonies. The chariot festival, which is a happy celebration, is the biggest religious event held in the temple throughout the month of March.

Our next trip is to the Matale Muthumariamman Temple. The name Muthumariamman is a combination of the words Muthu, which means pearl, Mari, which means rain, and Amman, which means mother. It is a temple dedicated to Mariamman, the Hindu god of fertility and rain. A trip to the temple is enjoyable. Numerous people come to the temple for weddings and religious ceremonies. The chariot festival, which is a happy celebration, is the biggest religious event held in the temple throughout the month of March.

*Kandy to Sigiriya Travelling Time:

Day 5

On your fifth day of your Sri Lanka 10 Day Sightseeing Tour, you will be exploring the lovely city of Kandy; we’ll also transport you to a few nearby locations. We will pick you up at the hotel after your breakfast. One of the places we will visit is the Temple of the Tooth Relic

Temple of the Tooth Relic

 One of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist attractions. It is a very significant and revered location for all Buddhists worldwide. It is the temple where the Buddha’s left canine tooth is revered. UNESCO recognized it as a global cultural treasure in 1988. Then we will visit Kandy Lake, which is situated in front of the Temple of Tooth. Waking around Kandy Lake is a fabulous experience to have. The lake brings additional beauty to the city. Later on, we’ll travel to the Kandy viewpoint, which offers a comprehensive overview of the city.

Other Places to Visit in Kandy

Your next visit will be to the Bahirawakanda Temple (Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya), a popular tourist attraction on the Bahirawakanda hill that is renowned for its magnificent Buddha sculpture, from where you can also observe a nice view of the city. The neighboring market is the next stop, where you may buy a range of things, including organic goods and presents.

The National Gems and Gemmological Museum, a museum where you may learn about the gems in Sri Lanka, will be the destination of our upcoming excursion. Additionally, it provides comprehensive details about Sri Lanka’s ancient past, which dates back 4.6 billion years. Some of the most incredible minerals ever discovered are also on display.

We’ll proceed to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens later. It is a magnificent 147-acre site with more than 4,000 different plant species. It is situated roughly 5.5 kilometers away from Kandy city. The unparalleled Mahaweli River flows through this tranquil and calm real estate property.

We’ll then proceed to the Kandy Cultural Dance Show. This breathtaking performance features a showcase of Sri Lankan dancing, emotion, and cultural heritage. You shouldn’t miss it since the dancers from the Kandy Lake club have been presenting it since about 1982. Its main goal is to perform every dance from Sri Lanka on a single platform. The Kandy retail mall is the last destination. You would spend the full day exploring each location and then be dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Day 6

On day six, you will go to the fabulous Cities of Nuwara Eliya and Ella, which are situated in the Central Province’s highlands. Mountains, waterfalls, and beautiful vegetation may all be found during the journey into the highlands.

On the way to Nuwara Eliya from Kandy

You will make a few stops along the way, including the 109-meter-tall Ramboda Falls, Sri Lanka’s eleventh-tallest waterfall (358 ft). Our next trip will be to the Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden, which is the country of Sri Lanka’s oldest tea institution. Tea samples and a free factory tour are provided.

Nuwara Eliya

When we go to the lovely town of Nuwara Eliya, we’ll make a few famous stops along the way, such as Gregory Lake, where you can have a pony ride and enjoy a nice lunch. We’ll then head to the Nuwara Eliya post office after that. It is one of the oldest post offices in Sri Lanka and has a unique appearance.

Nuwara Eliya to Ella

Then, after being transported to the Nanu Oya Railway Station, you will board the train for the most fantastic journey to the magnificent city of Ella. The journey is one of Sri Lanka’s most romantic by rail. A must-do activity in Sri Lanka is to take in the breathtaking views of the country’s opulent green tea estates, mountains, bridges, valleys, and dense wildness. Additionally, it’s the best way to experience Sri Lankan culture. On the train, chat with friendly locals, wave to children running along the rails, and consume the hot snacks offered by vendors who board at each stop.

You’ll be taken to your overnight accommodation after the train journey.

*Travel time from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: 

*Travel Time from Nanu Oya to Ella: 

Day 7

On this day you will travel most beautiful places in Ella and then you will travel to Yala National Park for an unforgettable wildlife safari. 

Ella

You saw the Nine Arch Bridge on your train ride, but it is worth viewing again for the beauty and the bridge’s architecture. We will be seeing it after breakfast. The Bridge in the Sky is another name for the Nine Arch Bridge. It is a building from the Colonial era with a viaduct bridge structure. Then, because of the similarities between the two summits, you will be taken to Little Adam’s Peak, also known as Mini Adam’s Peak or Little Sri Pada. An accessible climb to Little Adams Peak ascends a stunning peak covered with tea plantations, where you may observe people picking tea. The scenery of thick jungles is breathtaking.

Ell to Tissamaharama

After that, we’ll be traveling to Yala while stopping at the Ravana Falls, also known as Ravana Ella and named for the mythical king Ravana. King Ravana, who then concealed her in a cave beneath the waterfall, allegedly took hostage Princess Sita. It is the country’s thickest fall. The waterfall takes on the appearance of an Areca blossom in the wetter months.

Yala National Park

We will then head straight to Yala National Park, the nation’s second-largest national park and one that is flanked by the Indian Ocean, for your safari excursion. Only two of the park’s five blocks, Ruhunu and Kumana national parks, are accessible to the general public. Yala was designated as a refuge for animals in 1900.

You will be driven to the hotel for supper and a night’s stay after the safari.

*Ella to Yala Travel Time: 

Day 8

On day eight of your Sri Lanka 10 days sightseeing tour, you will be taken directly to Mirissa from Tissamaharama.

Mirissa

We’ll go to Coconut Tree Hill when you get to Mirissa. It is most likely Mirissa’s most well-known place. A mineralized headland next to the Indian Ocean may be seen near Mirissa. Walking along the beach from the street takes around 10 to 15 minutes. You must take a picture in this wonderful frame as you reach the top, which offers a stunning view of the beach and Mirissa bay.

You may then meander through the town before checking into your accommodation for the evening.

*Travel Time from Tissamaharama to Mirissa: 

Day 9

Whale Watching Tour 

We have scheduled a morning whale-watching trip for the ninth day, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to observe whales. You may get fairly close to these lovely creatures. One of the most exhilarating water sports in Sri Lanka is whale and dolphin watching, which is offered at Mirissa. Diverse marine species, including killer whales, blue whales, Bryde’s whales, sperm whales, fin whales, common dolphins, and bottlenose dolphins, may be found in the warm seas around Sri Lanka. Also seen are Risso’s dolphins, spinner dolphins, and striped dolphins. From November through April, when the seas are calm and warm, is the whale-watching season.

Galle Fort

The Galle Fort, which is situated on the Galle Coast, will be our next stop. It was constructed by the Portuguese in 1588, and the Dutch refurbished it beginning in 1649. Even though it has been standing for more than 432 years, it still has a lovely appearance and is now regarded as a significant architectural monument.

The rest of the day may be spent at the beach hotel after that.

*Travel Time Mirissa to Galle: 

Day 10

This is your Departure date. Our guide will pick you up from the hotel on day ten of your great Sri Lanka 10 Day Sightseeing Tour and drive you back to the airport in time for your flight out. Your 10-day tour of Sri Lanka that you arranged with The Sri Lanka Tours will be breathtaking and lovely.

*Galle to Airport Travel Time: 

• Driver/Guide
• Driver Accommodation
• 5 nights of hotel accommodation in 4-star hotels
• Breakfast
• Dinner
• Hotel pickup and drop off
• Transport by private vehicle
• Transport in A/C Vehicle
• Bottled Water
• Highway Fees
• Free Wifi during the whole tour
• Sri Lankan Tourism Board registered license
• Local insurance for the vehicle
• Passenger Insurance Cover
• Air-Conditioned Vehicle
• Surgical Masks
• Sanitizers
• Exclusions
• Lunch
• Gratuities
• Entrance fees National Park Tickets
• Fees and Handling charges
• Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)