Self-Guided Round Tour of 10 Days With a Driver by a Car/Van

Exploring the diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage of Sri Lanka has never been easier than with a self-guided round tour lasting 10 days. Travelers can enjoy the country’s iconic sites, from the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, all while enjoying the flexibility to create their own itinerary. With a luxury vehicle and a licensed chauffeur guide at their disposal, visitors can discover the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, bask in the beauty of Kandy’s religious and botanical wonders, and embark on a scenic train ride to the picturesque town of Ella. But the true charm of this personalized journey lies in the opportunity to uncover the hidden gems and savor the essence of Sri Lanka’s stunning island nation.

Good To Know

• A 10-day self-guided round tour of Sri Lanka offered by Lanka Travels & Tourism, a company focused on personalized services and client satisfaction.
• The tour includes transportation in a luxury vehicle with a licensed chauffeur guide, but excludes entrance tickets and lodging.
• Highlights of the tour include the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and Kandy’s religious and botanical wonders.
• Travelers can enjoy a scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, as well as explore the natural beauty of Ella and Yada National Park.
• The final day of the tour includes a transfer to a preferred beach destination, ensuring a stress-free transition to the beach phase of the adventure.

Tour Overview and Company Background

This self-guided round tour of Sri Lanka offers an immersive 10-day experience, showcasing the country’s diverse nature, rich culture, and captivating lifestyle.

It’s provided by Lanka Travels & Tourism, a company founded in 2011 that specializes in personalized services focused on client satisfaction.

The tour features popular attractions and hidden gems, with transportation via a luxury vehicle driven by an experienced, licensed chauffeur guide.

While the price excludes entrance tickets and lodging, the tour promises an engaging journey through Sri Lanka’s landscapes, ancient sites, and local experiences.

Itinerary Highlights

On the first day, the tour begins with a transfer from Negombo to Sigiriya/Habarana, where travelers visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive rock-carved Buddhist murals and statues.

The second day features a hike to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO site, followed by a safari at Minneriya National Park, home to a large population of elephants.

On the third day, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and the scenic Pidurangala Rock are explored, offering insights into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes.

• Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
• Hike Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Safari at Minneriya National Park

Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya Rock Fortress

The Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is renowned for its impressive rock-carved Buddhist murals and statues.

Visitors can explore the five main caves, each displaying unique features and historical significance. The first cave showcases a massive reclining Buddha statue, while others contain intricate paintings depicting the life of Buddha.

At Sigiriya, travelers can climb the ancient rock fortress to reach the remarkable ruins and stunning vistas at the summit.

This iconic UNESCO site, also known as the "Lion Rock," features well-preserved frescoes and the remnants of a former palace, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s remarkable history.

Ancient City of Polonnaruwa and Pidurangala Rock

After exploring the renowned Sigiriya Rock Fortress, travelers continue their journey to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases the captivating history and architectural marvels of Sri Lanka’s medieval kingdom.

The tour provides an opportunity to discover:

• The impressive Gal Vihara, a series of four massive Buddha statues carved out of solid granite, a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of the era.

• The Polonnaruwa Vatadage, a circular relic house that impresses with its intricate stone carvings and symmetrical design.

• The Pidurangala Rock, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, including the iconic Sigiriya Rock in the distance, serving as the perfect spot to witness the sunset.

Kandy’s Religious and Botanical Wonders

From the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa, the tour now heads to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka – the city of Kandy.

In this vibrant city, visitors will explore the Sri Muthumariamman Temple, adorned with intricate carvings, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s holiest sites.

The tour will also include a visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis home to over 4,000 plant species, including rare and exotic flora.

With over 1.2 million local and 400,000 foreign visitors in 2016, the gardens offer a serene respite from the bustling city.

This cultural and botanical experience in Kandy promises to be a highlight of the tour.

Scenic Train Ride to Ella

Departing the lush highlands of Nuwara Eliya, the tour takes guests on a scenic 3-hour train journey to the quaint mountain town of Ella.

The train winds through picturesque tea plantations, rushing streams, and towering peaks, offering panoramic vistas of Sri Lanka’s stunning hill country.

Passengers can marvel at the engineering feat of the Nine Arches Bridge, a century-old stone viaduct that stands as an iconic landmark.

Upon arrival in Ella, travelers are treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and the opportunity to explore the town’s charming cafes, hiking trails, and cultural attractions.

• Panoramic views of Sri Lanka’s hill country
• Iconic Nine Arches Bridge
• Quaint mountain town of Ella

Exploring Ella and Yala National Park

Travelers spend the seventh day of the tour exploring the charming town of Ella and its surrounding natural wonders. They hike up the iconic Little Adam’s Peak, offering stunning panoramic views of the lush green hills.

Next, they visit the impressive Nine Arches Bridge, a century-old engineering marvel that blends seamlessly into the picturesque landscape.

In the afternoon, the tour moves to the Yala region, where they stop at Lipton’s Seat, a scenic viewpoint named after the famous tea magnate.

The day concludes with visits to the cascading Diyaluma Falls and the ancient Buduruvagala Temple, providing a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Transfer to Beach Destinations

On the final day of the tour, the traveler is transferred to their preferred beach destination, such as Mirissa or other coastal towns along Sri Lanka’s southern shores.

The journey allows them to soak in the serene beauty of the country’s golden beaches, azure waters, and lush palm trees. The transfer is seamless, ensuring a stress-free transition to the next phase of the adventure.

Some highlights of the beach destinations include:

• Relaxing on the pristine sandy beaches
• Exploring vibrant fishing villages and local markets
• Indulging in fresh seafood and authentic Sri Lankan cuisine

The tour culminates with the traveler basking in the tranquility of the country’s picturesque coastal regions, creating lasting memories of their Sri Lankan exploration.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There an Option to Book Additional Activities or Excursions?

Yes, Lanka Travels & Tourism offers optional add-on activities and excursions beyond the core 10-day itinerary. Clients can customize their tour by booking additional experiences like water sports, cooking classes, or extended safaris at an extra cost.

How Flexible Is the Itinerary in Terms of Adjustments and Customization?

The itinerary is flexible, allowing for customization to suit individual interests. Clients can add or adjust activities, explore alternative routes, and modify the duration of stays at each destination based on their preferences.

What Is the Policy for Cancellations and Refunds?

Lanka Travels & Tourism offers flexible cancellation and refund policies. Customers can cancel or modify their bookings prior to the tour, subject to applicable fees. Refunds are provided as per the company’s terms and conditions.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Special Requests That Can Be Accommodated?

Lanka Travels & Tourism can accommodate various dietary restrictions and special requests. Travelers should inquire about their needs when booking the tour, and the team will work to ensure a comfortable and personalized experience.

What Is the Process for Obtaining Visas and Necessary Travel Documents?

Tourists can obtain an electronic tourist visa for Sri Lanka online prior to their trip. Lanka Travels & Tourism provides visa assistance and can guide clients through the application process to ensure all necessary travel documents are secured.

Sum Up

This 10-day self-guided tour of Sri Lanka allows travelers to explore the island’s iconic landmarks and breathtaking landscapes at their own pace. With a luxury vehicle and licensed chauffeur guide, visitors can discover the Dambulla Cave Temple, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ancient Polonnaruwa, and more, while also enjoying scenic train rides and the flexibility to create their own itinerary. This personalized journey provides an immersive experience to savor Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and cultural highlights.