Best of Sri Lanka & Beach - 12 days

Best of Sri Lanka & Beach - 12 days

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Best of Sri Lanka & Beach - 12 days

12 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka

Visiting: Colombo, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe National Park, Bentota

Tour operator:

On The Go Tours

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

2 - 24

Physical rating:

Medium

Age range:

5-

Special diets catered:

Vegetarians, Please contact On The Go Tours with specific dietary requests

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours

Activities:

Sightseeing

Tour Overview

Embark on a 12-day cultural journey through Sri Lanka, exploring its rich history and stunning landscapes. Begin in Colombo with a guided city tour, then venture to the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Discover the spiritual Dambulla Rock Temple and the spice gardens of Matale. In Kandy, visit the revered Temple of the Tooth and enjoy a tuk-tuk ride through the city. Experience the scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, known as 'Little England', and explore the lush tea plantations. Encounter wildlife on a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, home to Sri Lanka's largest herd of Asian elephants. Conclude your adventure with four days of relaxation on the palm-fringed beaches of Beruwala and Bentota, indulging in water sports or simply unwinding by the ocean. Enjoy comfortable accommodations and guided sightseeing throughout this unforgettable Sri Lankan escape.

Highlights

  • Beruwala/Bentota - Enjoy four days of relaxation on the idyllic palm-fringed beaches of Sri Lanka's West Coast.

  • Colombo – Experience a guided tour of the city, including the Old Fort area and the impressive Gangaramaya Temple.

  • Polonnaruwa - Explore the remarkable ruins of the ancient capital city of Ceylon.

  • Sigiriya - Climb to the top of the iconic 5th-century Lion Rock fortress and see the Heavenly Maidens.

  • Dambulla - Discover over 150 images of Buddha in the incredible complex of caves at Dambulla Rock Temple.

  • Kandy - Visit the famous Temple of the Tooth, enjoy a tuk-tuk ride, and watch a cultural performance.

  • Udawalawe National Park - Go on a game drive in search of wildlife, including the nation's largest herd of Asian elephants.

  • Take a scenic train ride from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, passing waterfalls and lush tea plantations en route.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Colombo

Upon arrival at Colombo airport you will be met and transferred to your Colombo hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Relax at the hotel and enjoy a swim in the pool or independently explore Sri Lanka's charming capital city.

Day 2: Dambulla

Location: Dambulla

Accommodation Name: Jetwing Lake

Meals Included: Breakfast

Colombo - Dambulla - Polonnaruwa - Dambulla. Drive inland from Colombo to Dambulla this morning, stopping en route at a fruit and vegetable market in Naramwela Town. Explore the incredible complex of caves at Dambulla Rock Temple. Dating back to the 1st Century BC, the five caves contain over 150 images of Buddha.





Next stop today is Polonnaruwa, an ancient 11th century city which was once the capital of Sri Lanka. Roam around the incredible ruins, including the famous Royal Palace and the Gal Vihara. After exploring this ancient site, return to Dambulla for an evening at leisure.



Day 3: Sigiriya

Location: Sigiriya

Accommodation Name: Jetwing Lake

Meals Included: Breakfast

Dambulla - Sigiriya - Kandy. This morning visit Sigiriya, where you can climb to the top of the famous ‘Lion Rock’ fortress. Built over 1500 years ago, this iconic citadel can be viewed from miles around, standing 200 meters high in the middle of verdant jungle. As you climb the spiral staircase to take in the incredible views from the top of the fortress, stop to see the famous paintings of the Heavenly Maidens, in a sheltered pocket of the rock.





Next stop today is a spice garden in Matale where you will learn about the different herbs and spices Sri Lanka is famous for. Then travel on to Kandy, where you will spend the next two nights.

Day 4: Kandy

Location: Kandy

Accommodation Name: Radisson Hotel Kandy

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning embark on a sightseeing tour of Kandy - the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings. First stop is the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic. Legend has it that one of Buddha's teeth was taken from him as he lay on his funeral pyre. It was then smuggled into Sri Lanka in 313AD. It now attracts daily pilgrims who come bearing lotus flowers and frangipani. After exploring the temple, enjoy a scenic drive around Kandy Lake before visiting a local bazaar and a gem museum. Then take Tuk Tuk ride up into the surrounding hills to take in views of the city. In the afternoon visit the Geragama Tea Factory, which manufactures 'Low Grown' and 'Long Leaf' tea. End the day watching a cultural performance of traditional Sri Lankan music and dance this evening.

Day 5: Nuwara Eliya

Location: Nuwara Eliya

Accommodation Name: Jetwing St Andrew's

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kandy - Nuwara Eliya. Spend the morning at leisure in Kandy before transferring to the railway station for a scenic train ride. Passing mile upon mile of verdant tea plantations that hug the winding mountain passes, see tea pickers, waterfalls and suspension bridges on your journey up to Nuwara Eliya - Sri Lanka’s most popular hill resort. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country producing a significant share of the world’s best tea. Upon arrival enjoy a sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya - locally as 'Little England'.

Day 6: Udawalawe National Park

Location: Udawalawe National Park

Accommodation Name: Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nuwara Eliya - Udawalawe National Park. Today head south to Embilipitiya, your base for exploring Udawalawe National Park. Udawalawe is probably one of the best places to spot the famous Sri Lankan elephant, the biggest of all the Asian elephants in the wild. It is thought that there are around 400 elephants here. The park is also home to the elusive leopard, the Sri Lankan sloth bear, the cheeky langur monkey and varies types of deer. Go in search of wildlife on an afternoon game drive.

Day 7: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Accommodation Name: Cinnamon Lakeside

Meals Included: Breakfast

Udawalawe National Park - Colombo. Return to Colombo this morning with a visit to the Gem Mine and Museum at Ratnapura en route. Sri Lanka is famous for its gem industry and is home to 40 out of the 85 types of gems that exist in the world.





Arriving into Colombo, enjoy a guided tour of the capital. Take in the Fort area in the north of the city which is famous for its government buildings and interesting shops. See the unique Gangarama Temple and take a stroll along Galle Face Green, a popular spot for kite flying and games of cricket.

Day 8: Bentota and Beruwala

Location: Bentota

Accommodation Name: Occidental Eden Beruwala

Meals Included: Breakfast

Colombo - Beruwala/Bentota. After breakfast, it's a short drive south along Sri Lanka's idyllic West Coast to the popular holiday resorts of Beruwala and neighbouring Bentota.

Spend the final days of your holiday relaxing by the beach.

Day 9-11: Bentota and Beruwala

Location: Bentota

Accommodation Name: Occidental Eden Beruwala

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sri Lanka's beautiful palm fringed beaches are without a doubt its biggest draw card, and once you set eyes on them you’ll understand why. Nestled on the Indian Ocean coast with warm crystal clear waters and golden sands, Beruwela and Bentota offer travellers a whole host of water sports from snorkelling and scuba diving, to water skiing and surfing – the choice if yours. Indulge in a glass of Toddy – a local coconut flavoured tipple, head to the spa and opt for an Ayurveda treatment which the area is famous for, or simply while away the days on the beach with a cocktail in hand.

Day 12: Colombo

Location: Colombo

Meals Included: Breakfast

Beruwala/Bentota - Colombo. Today your tropical island adventure comes to an end. Departure transfer to Colombo Airport for your onward international flight.

What's Included

  • Accommodation
    4-5 star & heritage hotels

  • Breakfast daily

    Breakfast is included every day during the tour.

  • 11 nights 4-5 star hotels and heritage properties

    Accommodation in 4-5 star hotels and heritage properties for 11 nights is included.

  • Guided sightseeing - Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe NP and Colombo

    Guided sightseeing tours in Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe National Park, and Colombo are included.

  • Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and Kandy Tuk Tuk ride

    A scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and a Tuk Tuk ride in Kandy are included.

  • Jeep safari/game drive in Udawalawe National Park

    A jeep safari or game drive in Udawalawe National Park is included.

  • Escorted by a licensed English speaking chauffeur guide

    The tour is escorted by a licensed English-speaking chauffeur guide.

  • Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 12

    Airport arrival and departure transfers on the first and last days of the tour are included.

  • All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles

    All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles are included.

  • Entrance fees to all included sites

    Entrance fees to all included sites are covered.

What's Not Included

  • International flights and visas

    International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.

  • Tipping - An entirely personal gesture

    Tipping is not included and is considered a personal gesture.

Age Policy

Not recommended for under 5yrs.

Accommodation

Experience luxury and comfort at top hotels like Radisson Hotel Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside, Jetwing Lake, Radisson Hotel Kandy, Jetwing St Andrew's, Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort, and Occidental Eden Beruwala. Enjoy modern amenities, stunning views, and exceptional dining options, ensuring a memorable stay throughout your Sri Lankan adventure.

Mode of Transport

Travel in style with private air-conditioned vehicles for all transfers and transportation. Enjoy a scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, and experience a thrilling jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. Airport transfers on arrival and departure days are also included for your convenience.

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can be seen in Udawalawe National Park?

    Udawalawe National Park is home to the largest herd of Asian elephants in Sri Lanka, and you may also spot leopards, sloth bears, langur monkeys, and various types of deer during a game drive.

  • What is special about the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy?

    The Temple of the Tooth in Kandy is famous for housing a relic of one of Buddha's teeth, which was smuggled into Sri Lanka in 313AD. It attracts daily pilgrims who come to pay their respects.

  • What activities are available in Bentota and Beruwala?

    In Bentota and Beruwala, you can enjoy a variety of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, water skiing, and surfing. You can also relax on the beach, indulge in a local coconut-flavored drink called Toddy, or opt for an Ayurveda treatment at a spa.

  • What can visitors expect to see at Sigiriya?

    Visitors to Sigiriya can climb the famous 'Lion Rock' fortress, which stands 200 meters high. Along the way, they can view the famous paintings of the Heavenly Maidens and enjoy incredible views from the top of the fortress.

  • What is the significance of Polonnaruwa?

    Polonnaruwa is an ancient city that was once the capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th century. Visitors can explore its remarkable ruins, including the famous Royal Palace and the Gal Vihara.

  • What is unique about the train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya?

    The train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya is scenic, passing through verdant tea plantations, waterfalls, and suspension bridges, offering stunning views of Sri Lanka's tea country.

  • What can be experienced at the spice garden in Matale?

    At the spice garden in Matale, visitors can learn about the different herbs and spices that Sri Lanka is famous for, gaining insight into their uses and significance.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1998

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

Reviews of this operator

Nicola Hodgkinson (Google Reviewer)  

Recently returned from Greece, a...

07-May-2024

Recently returned from Greece, a 5 day tour with OTG. Unfortunately, I had a negative experience on day 2 where I needed local support to get me out of a tricky situation. Thank you to Alexandra Z from Hetco Tours in Athens for helping me continue on with the trip, to the Hotel Zafolia staffing team and to Danielle and team here in the UK for supporting me with the aftermath. Your kindness will not be forgotten and I will pay it forward. I've now booked 3 trips with yourselves and will continue to go back. Thank you all. Honestly, I am SO grateful. Blessings to you all. Nicola

Calvin  

Wonderful experience

05-Jan-2023

Jamal is our tour guide. Right from the start, he created a group chat in whatsapp and if any issues to make sure we contact him. He was on the ball with every issue thrown at him. Luggage being left behind, stragglers wondered off in a different path, hotel room etc. He explains the various site along our route to give us a better understanding of the local cultures. We had a great time, thanks to Jamal.

Trustpilot
Norma Sullivan  

Land of the Northern Lights 5 day tour of Iceland

10-Sep-2021

The Land of Northern Lights tour was a triumph! My tour of Southern Iceland was absolutely wonderful. The venues chosen, the timing allotted at each venue and the variety of things to experience was nearly perfect. Our guide, "Thor", was smart, amusing, full of history and anecdotal stories as well as being incredibly hospitable and helpful. This small group experience was my first, but not my last thanks to On the Go.

Trawls (Google Reviewer)  

On The Go Tours Sri...

05-Feb-2024

On The Go Tours Sri Lanka was an incredible experience that was made even better by our tour guide Akthar. He was incredibly knowledgeable about his country and he loved sharing it with us. The tour covers a wide range of activities so you can truly experience what Sri Lanka is all about. The beautiful 4-5 star hotels at the end of every day was an absolute bonus. Thanks for a great trip OTGT I’m sure this won’t be my last

Xtreme Floor Care (Google Reviewer)  

Traveled through Egypt with On...

30-Nov-2023

Traveled through Egypt with On the Go Tours, professional service, very informative and helpful tour guides. The choice of hotels was excellent... Definitely recommend this company

Gavin Harrigan  

King Tutankhamun 10 day tour of Egypt

16-Sep-2021

I have just returned from my tour with On The Go and it was an amazing trip! From arriving at the airport and meeting the OTG representative, everything was well organised and hassle free.  Our tour guide was Amir. He is awesome!! From the beginning he was so friendly and enthusiastic about showing us around Egypt, giving us loads of information at each place and time to explore ourselves. Learnt so much from him about this fascinating place, and he was always happy to answer more questions.   The trip itself was amazing. There's lots of travelling on this trip, but it's really not too bad, and the sights you see when you get to where you are going are worth it. I'm not a big fan of boats, but the Felluca ride across the Nile was pretty fun too.  On the first day I also did the optional tour of Cairo with Ahmed Helal - another excellent guide from OTG. It's worth doing this add on as you don't spend much time in Cairo, and you go to three very different places.  I'm so glad that I decided to do this trip. It was just ace.  If you're thinking about it too, you should probably just book it. And hopefully you get Amir as your guide.

Beth Richardson (Google Reviewer)  

I have toured with On...

14-Mar-2025

I have toured with On The Go three times now. Overall I have found the tours and guides have been excellent. Hotels and transport are usually good. On my most recent tour I enjoyed my time overall but there was an unexpected change to the itinerary part way through. The change wasn’t ideal, but more importantly for me it proved difficult to get transparent information out of them and work out an alternative plan. We reached a compromise in the end but I wouldn’t travel with them again on this basis. They will likely reply to this review citing their Ts&Cs, which will tell you everything you need to know!

Joyce Heitler (Google Reviewer)  

I would give this tour...

09-May-2024

I would give this tour group no stars if possible. The tour was not guaranteed but they did not inform me when I booked and they did not have enough people. Way after I booked they said I needed a doctors letter because I was over 70. Also way after booking I was informed I needed travel insurance. They knew my age when I booked. They would not refund my tour even though it was 4 months away.

Simla Patel (Google Reviewer)  

This company doesn’t deserve even...

26-Nov-2024

This company doesn’t deserve even 1 star. I would not recommend this company. There are hidden fees which means the cost of the holiday ends up being very expensive. We recently came back from our trip to China where it is not customary to tip in restaurants & hotel staff. Yet we had to make a payment upfront in cash to to the guide for more than £100. The hotel service was appalling. Just think £100 from each person. The trip was suppose to be a Tour yet we had to pay for all entrance fees. We complained about the poor condition of the hotels but no one responded to our emails to date. The after sales service is non existent. Do not use this company. Far far too expensive for what you get. Not competitive at all. They messed up our booking; repeatedly asked for the same information. We spent so much time correcting their errors. Very difficult to get hold of anyone because they all work in S Africa or New Zealand. Absolute nightmare

Sarah Paterson (Google Reviewer)  

Terrible tour of India. For...

27-Dec-2023

Terrible tour of India. For some reason On the Go hadn't realised that my room mate had booked her own room for the first night of tour. So the hotel in Delhi had tried to put me in her room after midnight, by wheeling in an extra bed. She went Crazy!! I then had to sit in hotel reception for hours. While the tour guide said he couldn't find me a room. Throughout the tour the guide consistently ask me and my room mate for money for my room, causing more friction between us. Don't book with this company had the worst experience ever. Go with Intrepid or G Adventure

Book with Confidence

  • Transfer as credit for future tours

    On The Go Tours allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform on the go tours, 60 days before departure.

  • Low Deposit

    On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 500 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.

    Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.

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