Tour Overview
Ancient temples, elephants, scenic train through tea country, and city highlights in one classic circuit. Perfect for first-time visitors.
Day-by-Day Itinerary
The hill country train from Kandy to Ella is one of the world's great railway journeys. We book your tickets in advance — seats fill quickly, especially in high season.
Arrival & Transfer to Sigiriya
Colombo Airport → Sigiriya
Your driver meets you at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfers you north through the Sri Lankan countryside to Sigiriya (approx. 3.5 hours). Check in to your hotel and enjoy the first evening at leisure.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Dambulla Cave Temple
Sigiriya → Dambulla
Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress — a 5th-century royal palace rising 200 metres above the jungle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with ancient frescoes and sky-high water gardens. In the afternoon visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a cave sanctuary of 153 golden Buddha statues and 2,000-year-old murals.
Sigiriya to Kandy — Spice Garden & Temple of the Tooth
Sigiriya → Matale → Kandy
Drive south to Kandy, stopping at a fragrant spice garden in Matale to learn about cinnamon, pepper, and cardamom. In Kandy, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, then enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance in the evening.
The Scenic Hill Country Train to Ella
Kandy → Ella
Board the famous hill country train from Kandy and wind through misty tea plantations, waterfalls, and emerald highlands to Ella (approx. 6 hours). On arrival, a short walk to the Nine Arch Bridge rewards you with one of Sri Lanka's most photographed views.
Ella & Departure
Ella → Colombo
A morning hike up Little Adam's Peak for sweeping views of the surrounding valleys and tea hills, then a stop at Ravana Falls. Your driver transfers you back to Colombo for your international departure.
Tour Route
What's Included
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle with experienced driver
- Accommodation on bed & breakfast basis
- Entrance fees to all sites mentioned in the itinerary
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
- Bottled water in vehicle throughout
- Scenic train ticket (Kandy to Ella) — subject to availability
Not Included
- International flights and airport taxes
- Travel insurance (strongly recommended)
- Lunches and dinners unless otherwise specified
- Tips and gratuities
- Personal expenses and souvenirs
