On The Go Tours: Colombo, Caves & Kandy

Arrive at Colombo Airport and enjoy a smooth transfer to your seafront hotel, where you can relax and settle in before your Sri Lankan adventure begins. For early arrivals, an optional Backstreets of Colombo tour offers a deeper look into the city’s vibrant character. Ride a tuk tuk to Bambalapitiya, hop on a local train, and explore the bustling streets of Pettah, the striking Red Mosque, and colonial-era landmarks like the Old Town Hall and Wolvendaal Church. Finish with a local favourite—a mutton roll and iced coffee at the legendary Nippon Hotel.

Journey from the bustling streets of Colombo to the spiritual serenity of Dambulla and the ancient grandeur of Polonnaruwa. Begin your day with a vibrant stop at Naramwela’s local market before uncovering the wonders of the Dambulla Rock Temple—an awe-inspiring cave complex dating back to the 1st Century BC, featuring over 150 Buddha images and a striking 14-metre carved statue. Continue to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second oldest city and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the ruins of the Royal Palace and the iconic Gal Vihara reveal the island’s rich royal past. End the day in Dambulla, reflecting on a journey steeped in history, culture, and timeless beauty.

Explore Sigiriya, Sri Lanka’s iconic Lion Rock fortress, a 200-meter-high ancient citadel surrounded by lush jungle. This UNESCO World Heritage Site offers panoramic views and features the famous frescoes of the Heavenly Maidens, hidden within a sheltered pocket of the rock. Continue your journey with a scenic hand tractor and canoe ride to Kayanwala Village, where a traditional cooking demonstration showcases authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. On the way to Kandy, visit the spice gardens of Matale to discover how Sri Lanka’s world-renowned herbs and spices are cultivated and processed. This immersive experience blends history, culture, and flavour for an unforgettable adventure.

Start your day in Kandy, the final royal capital of Sri Lanka, with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic - home to one of Buddha’s legendary teeth and a revered pilgrimage site. Enjoy scenic views around Kandy Lake, explore the bustling local bazaar and gem museum, and take a Tuk Tuk ride into the surrounding hills. In the afternoon, discover the art of tea-making at the historic Geragama Tea Factory, known for its premium low-grown and long-leaf teas. Conclude the day with a vibrant cultural performance featuring traditional Sri Lankan music and dance. This enriching experience blends history, spirituality, and local flavour in the heart of the hill country.

Enjoy a scenic train journey through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, passing endless tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and misty mountain passes en route to Nuwara Eliya. Known as Sri Lanka’s most popular hill resort and the heart of its tea industry, Nuwara Eliya produces some of the world’s finest teas. This afternoon, take a picturesque drive through the charming town, often called "Little England" for its colonial architecture and cool climate. A perfect blend of nature, heritage, and tranquillity awaits in this highland escape.

Today we travel south to Embilipitiya, the perfect base for exploring Udawalawe National Park. Renowned as one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants, the park is home to around 400 Sri Lankan elephants, the largest of all Asian elephant species. It also shelters leopards, sloth bears, and several types of deer. Enjoy an afternoon safari game drive through this incredible wildlife sanctuary before returning to your hotel for the evening. Ideal for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts, Udawalawe offers an unforgettable safari experience in Sri Lanka.

Begin the day with a visit to the Gem Mine and Museum in Ratnapura, the heart of Sri Lanka’s renowned gem industry. The island is famous for producing 40 of the world’s 85 types of precious gems. Later, arrive in Colombo and enjoy a guided city tour through the historic Fort area, known for its colonial architecture and vibrant shops. Visit the beautiful Gangarama Temple and take a relaxing walk along Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade for kite flying and cricket. Your tour concludes this evening, so take time to bid farewell to your group before departing Sri Lanka tomorrow.