Negombo, Colombo, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Mount Lavinia, Bentota, Kalutara
The trip begins early, with departures from Colombo between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM. Once the group is gathered, the journey continues along the Mirigama expressway toward Kurunegala. This early start allows travelers to relax and enjoy the countryside scenery — lush greenery, peaceful farmland, and misty landscapes. Around 8:30 AM, there is a breakfast stop at Café Amakie in Kurunegala (paid separately), offering a selection of local and international dishes. It's a refreshing break before continuing to Dambulla, where punctuality is essential, as the Dambulla Cave Temple temporarily closes from 10:30 to 10:45 AM for worship.
Around 10:00 AM, the group arrives at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, known for its well-preserved Buddhist murals, golden statues, and ancient rock-hewn shrines. A short but moderately steep climb leads to the cave complex, offering stunning panoramic views from the top. Entering before the temporary closure ensures an uninterrupted visit and time to absorb the site's historical and spiritual atmosphere.
After exploring Dambulla, the tour continues with a 20-minute drive to Sigiriya, where the iconic Lion Rock awaits. Around 11:30 AM, travelers begin the climb of approximately 1,200 steps. Along the way, highlights include the Sigiriya frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the giant Lion’s Paws carved into the rock. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking views and a sense of achievement. The full visit — including the ascent and descent — takes about 2 to 3 hours, so wearing comfortable shoes, a hat or cap, and carrying water is important.
After the descent, guests can relax over lunch at a selected restaurant or choose to join a unique village tour. This immersive cultural experience begins with a traditional bullock cart ride through scenic rice fields, followed by a canoe trip across a serene lake. Upon arriving at a village home, a freshly prepared meal is served, featuring authentic Sri Lankan flavors. A tuk-tuk ride completes the tour, offering the chance to interact with locals and witness daily rural life.
For those who choose wildlife over the village tour, an optional jeep safari awaits in Eco Park, Kaudulla, or Minneriya National Park, depending on seasonal animal movements. The 2.5-hour safari offers the chance to see elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, guests not joining the safari can enjoy leisure time visiting batik and silk shops or indulging in an Ayurvedic massage.
Between 5:45 PM and 6:00 PM, the group gathers for the return trip to Colombo. The relaxing evening ride concludes the day, with arrivals between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM — ending a memorable journey through history, nature, and culture.
NYC International Airport
7.00AM
Approximately 9.30PM
Casual, comfortable and light
Hotel pick-up and drop-off service
Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle (car/van/bus)
English-speaking driver
Bottled water
Guide assistance at Sigiriya Lion Rock (English, German, French, Spanish)
King coconut
Flights
Food and drinks, except when specified
Typical Souvenir
Hotel pick-up and drop-off service
Personal expenses
Sigiriya Lion Rock (36 USD)
Cave Temple (7 USD = 2000 LKR)
Optional Jeep safari in the National Park (1 person $100 / 2 or more people $50 per person)
Negombo, Colombo, Galle, Hikkaduwa, Mount Lavinia, Bentota, Kalutara
Breakfast (30 minutes)
Additional cost
Visit, Sightseeing, Walking, Self-guided tour (1 hour)
Additional cost
Guided tour, Sightseeing, Walking (105 minutes)
Additional cost
Lunch, Food tasting (2 hours)
Optional, Additional cost
Wildlife observation (2 hours)
Optional, Additional cost
(3.5 hours)
Negombo, Colombo, Kalutara, Galle, Bentota, Hikkaduwa, Mount Lavinia
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+33 6 59 71 46 10 - ParisAn unforgettable experience! From the breathtaking views at Sigiriya to the peaceful boat ride in Hiriwadunna, everything was perfectly organized. The guide was knowledgeable and friendly — highly recommended for anyone visiting Sri Lanka!
We loved every minute of this day trip. The Dambulla Cave Temple was stunning, and climbing Lion Rock was a true adventure. The local lunch in the village was authentic and delicious. This tour is a must!
Absolutely worth it! The safari was a highlight — we saw elephants up close. The schedule was smooth, the driver was professional, and the entire journey felt safe and enjoyable. Would definitely book again.
