Sample itinerary

Sri Lanka · 10 days

The classic loop, done properly. Real hotels, real drives, real guides. Adjust anything.

Arrive · Negombo

Land at Bandaranaike. Private transfer to a small hotel near the lagoon. Welcome dinner, early night.

Drive to the cultural triangle. Climb Sigiriya in the late afternoon when the light is best and the crowds are thinner.

Morning at the Dambulla cave temples. Afternoon elephant safari at Minneriya or Kaudulla (best season dependent).

Drive south. Temple of the Tooth, a walk around the lake, evening traditional dance performance if you want it.

The famous hill country train. Reserved seats, 6-7 hours through tea plantations. One of the best train rides in the world.

Little Adam's Peak at sunrise, Nine Arch Bridge, a tea factory visit. Slow day. Good food, good coffee.

Drive to Yala. Afternoon safari — leopards, elephants, sloth bears if lucky. Night at a tented camp or lodge.

Drive to Galle. Walk the fort walls at sunset. Night inside or near the old town.

Beach day. Optional whale watching (Nov-Apr) or a cooking class. Relaxed evening by the water.

Transfer to Colombo airport. Or extend by 3-4 days — most people wish they had.

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