The Best of Sri Lanka – 7-Day Tour
Discover the heart and soul of Sri Lanka on this 7-day journey through its vibrant coastal towns, ancient cities, lush highlands, and golden beaches. Begin in the fishing village of Negombo, then head to Dambulla to explore its iconic cave temples and nearby wildlife at Minneriya National Park. Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress before continuing to the cultural capital, Kandy, to witness the sacred Temple of the Tooth and traditional dance performances. Then, unwind on the stunning beaches of Bentota, with a visit to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This tour offers a perfect blend of history, nature, culture, and relaxation, guided by experienced chauffeurs and enriched with authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.
Welcome to Sri Lanka
- Explore Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO Site)
- Climb the Iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Safari at Minneriya National Park
- Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
- Stroll Through the Historic Galle Fort (UNESCO Site)
Itinerary
Arrive at Sri Lanka, clear the Visa and immigration documents and head to the arrival lounge. The Esna Holidays representative will welcome you with a warm smile and accompany you to the hotel.
Check-in at the hotel and thereafter enjoy a sightseeing tour of Negombo. Negombo being a small fishing village, and now a hub for many tourists who arrive to Sri Lanka and leave the country, it’s a fusion of the old-times and the new.
The fish market is one of the busiest places in Negombo, with fishermen bringing in the daily catch, fresh, and the buyers bargaining over the new products. With boats pulling on to the shores, the fish unloaded into the shops, merchants from across the country visiting the Fish market for the deals and bargains, you can witness a real time market, just for the fish.
Return to the hotel and enjoy the day at leisure, by the beach, a pool, sipping some quality Sri Lankan arrack, wines, or any tropical beverages.
Meals: Dinner
Drive time: 45 minutes
Breakfast at the hotel and leave for Dambulla
It’s known for its Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Featuring impressive mural paintings and 157 statues, including a massive Buddha monument, it’s a sacred pilgrimage site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The history of the place dates back to the first century BCE, when King Valagambahu took refuge here. Today, it’s worth visiting not only for the cave temple but also for the beautiful view over the countryside.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive time: 5 hours
Leave for the climb to one of the most interesting sites in Sri Lanka – the Sigiriya Rock fortress.
The rocky monolith rises high out of the lush jungle and is home to the remains of an ancient fortress built in the late 5th century CE. The name translates to “Lion Rock,” a reference to the way visitors traditionally began their final ascent to the top of the monument, passing through the open jaws and throat of a lion. Today, the only remains of this lion figure today are the gigantic paws sculpted into the side of the rock.
Thereafter engage in an afternoon safari at the Minneriya National Park.
Minneriya National Park, a vast preserve of forest and grasslands. Located between Habarana and Polonnaruwa, the park is home to elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and langur monkeys. At its heart is the extraordinary Minneriya Tank reservoir. Created by the Anuradhapura civilization over 1800 years ago, its peaceful shores are the perfect place to observe herds of elephants and flocks of storks.
Return to the hotel and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive time: 5 hours
Leave for Kandy after breakfast
Upon arriving at Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and thereafter enjoy a cultural show. Kandy, strategically situated between three mountain ranges, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), another UNESCO World Heritage Site. The impressive temple complex, dating back to the 16th century, is made up of numerous buildings decorated with paintings and carvings depicting Buddha. As the name suggests, it’s home to an important relic, the tooth of the Buddha, which is carefully guarded by security night and day.
Later in the evening, enjoy a cultural show in Kandy.
Kandy is home to many historical locations. also it is home to the Kandyan dancing; a dancing style that is practiced for many centuries. Even the world-famous Kandy Esala Perahara highlights these beautiful dances and styles. At the cultural show, you will see some of the famous Kandyan dances, performed by talented and skillful dancers.
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive time: 3 hours
Breakfast at the hotel in Kandy and thereafter leave for the pristine beaches of Bentota.
Calm seas and miles of pristine beaches make this laid-back beach area a favorite holiday playground. Bentota is a mecca for watersports: go scuba diving in the coral-rich waters, deep-sea fishing on a traditional outrigger canoe, or windsurfing on gentle waves. As evening approaches, witness of the amazing sunsets you will ever see!
Overnight stay at the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive time: 5 hours
After a leisurely breakfast, leave for Galle.
The ancient port of Galle was Sri Lanka’s first international center of trade. Today, this town is a bustling administrative center and the provincial capital of the southern region. Despite the presence of modern architecture and civic amenities, Galle still hosts a stunning collection of sites dating back over hundreds of years. On your trip to Galle, you will also experience the unforgettable Unawatuna Bay, which is surrounded by a reef and home to the namesake Galle Fort. Surrounded on three sides by the ocean, the 36-hectare fort was built by the Portuguese in 1587 and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Return to the hotel and overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive time: 4 hours
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel and check out before noon to transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport, for the departure flight. Safe travels!
Includes/Excludes
Your Holiday Package Includes:
- Accommodation in hotels as per the itinerary (Subject to availability)
- Meal Plan as mentioned in the program
- Transport in an Air-Conditioned well-maintained vehicle with the service of an English-Speaking Chauffer Guide at your disposal throughout the tour.
- Private car between 1 to 2
- Entrance Fees to the locations mentioned in the program
- All Taxes and Service Charges.
- x2 bottles of Mineral water per person per day
Cost Excludes
- International Flights & VISA
- Tips and Porterage.
- All beverages.
- Camera & Video Permit Charges if applicable.
FAQs About Sri Lanka
The tour includes accommodation at premium hotels, daily breakfast and dinner, private transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide, all entrance fees for listed attractions, and 2 bottles of mineral water per person per day
No, international flights are not included in the tour package. We can assist with flight bookings separately if needed—just let us know!
Yes. Australians require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. It’s a simple online application process, and we’re happy to assist with guidance if needed.
Absolutely. The itinerary suits couples, families, and seniors. Please note that some parts of the trip, such as climbing Sigiriya Rock or joining a wildlife safari, involve moderate physical activity.
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but the best travel periods for this itinerary are between November and April and again from May to October, depending on your weather preference. We’ll help you pick the perfect time based on your interests.
Sri Lanka is an island nation in South Asia, located just off the southeast coast of India. It’s surrounded by the Indian Ocean and offers stunning landscapes from beaches to rainforests to ancient cities.
The local currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). You can exchange Australian dollars at banks, airports, or reputable money changers. Credit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourist areas.
Yes, English is commonly spoken, especially in tourist areas, hotels, and by tour guides. Sinhala and Tamil are the official languages.
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two main monsoon seasons. The southwest coast is best visited from December to April, while the east coast is ideal from May to September. Inland and cultural areas are generally good year-round.
Yes, Sri Lanka is considered a safe destination for tourists. As with any country, normal travel precautions apply. Stick to reputable guides, avoid isolated areas at night, and be mindful of local laws and customs.
Conditions
*Conditions Apply. Packages are valid for sale until 31st October 2025. Advertised Price is based on selected travel dates from 1st May 2025 to 31st October 2025 and 1st May 2026 to 31st October 2026 . Price is based on 2 adults traveling for 6 nights. Prices are ‘from’ per person, based on double occupancy unless specifically noted. Single supplements apply. Prices shown are in Australian Dollars and are subject to adjustment without prior notification. Package prices are subject to availability at the time of booking. Conditions, amendments, and cancellation fees apply. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.
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