Is this tour suitable for families with children?

Yes, the pace is balanced with both cultural visits and exciting safaris, making it enjoyable for families.

What kind of wildlife can we expect in Yala and Udawalawe?

Leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species.

How long is the scenic train ride?

The Kandy–Ella train ride takes around 6–7 hours through the hill country.

Do we need special clothing for temple visits?

Yes, shoulders and knees should be covered.

Can this itinerary be customized?

Absolutely, we can adjust the pace, activities, or hotel category based on your preference.

12-Day Heritage & Wildlife Escape – Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Yala, Udawalawe & Sigiriya

Discover Sri Lanka’s timeless history and breathtaking wildlife escape in this 12-day journey. Explore UNESCO World Heritage cities, sacred temples, and royal ruins before venturing into the wilderness of Yala and Udawalawe National Parks. A perfect balance of culture and adventure for European travelers seeking an authentic Sri Lankan experience.

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Walk Among Ancient Kings & Roam with Wild Elephants

This immersive 12-day tour combines Sri Lanka’s cultural heartlands with thrilling wildlife encounters. Begin with the great kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, home to ancient palaces, Buddhist stupas, and sacred temples. Continue to the Cultural Triangle, where Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temples stand as marvels of engineering and faith. Then, trade ruins for safaris as you head south to Yala and Udawalawe, two of Asia’s finest national parks. Round off your journey with scenic highlands and a coastal unwind before departure.

Designed for Belgian and European travelers, this itinerary blends heritage, nature, and authentic Sri Lankan hospitality in a comfortable yet adventurous pace.

Highlights

Explore the ancient capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa (UNESCO sites).
Step into the ruins of Polonnaruwa, the medieval city of kings.
Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO marvel with breathtaking views.
Wander through the Dambulla Cave Temples, painted with centuries-old murals.
Spot leopards, elephants, and birdlife on safari in Yala National Park.
Experience elephant herds up close in Udawalawe National Park.
Discover the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
Relax in the hill country tea estates before departure.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to Negombo. Relax by the golden beaches or explore the colonial canals and fishing villages. Overnight in Negombo.

Day 02 :

Anuradhapura: The First Capital

Travel north to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital and a UNESCO site. Explore the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, Jetavanaramaya stupa, and the vast ruins of palaces and monasteries. Overnight in Anuradhapura.

Day 03 :

Mihintale & Polonnaruwa

Visit Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, before continuing to Polonnaruwa. Explore the ancient city with its Royal Palace, Gal Vihara stone Buddhas, and intricate carvings. Overnight in Polonnaruwa.

Day 04 :

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Drive to Sigiriya and climb the legendary rock fortress. Explore the frescoes of the Sigiriya maidens and the royal gardens. Spend the evening relaxing at your hotel surrounded by lush countryside. Overnight in Sigiriya.

Day 05 :

Dambulla Cave Temples & Matale Spice Gardens

Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, famous for their painted ceilings and statues of Buddha. En route to Kandy, stop at Matale to explore a spice garden and learn about Sri Lanka’s traditional spices. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 06 :

Kandy: Sacred City & Cultural Capital

Spend the day in Kandy, visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, and enjoying an evening cultural dance performance. Overnight in Kandy.

Day 07 :

Scenic Train to Ella

Take one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Ella, winding past tea plantations, mountains, and waterfalls. Arrive in Ella, a charming hill town. Overnight in Ella.

Day 08 :

Ella Sightseeing & Ravana Falls

Explore Ella’s highlights including Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, and Ravana Falls. Enjoy the cool climate and breathtaking landscapes. Overnight in Ella.

Day 09 :

Yala National Park Safari - Wildlife Escape

Travel south to Yala National Park, famous for its leopard population. Embark on a wildlife escape in the evening jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birdlife. Overnight near Yala.

Day 10 :

Yala to Udawalawe

After a morning safari in Yala (optional), continue to Udawalawe. Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home and enjoy an evening safari inside Udawalawe National Park, known for its large elephant herds. Overnight in Udawalawe.

Day 11 :

Hill Country Retreat

Head back into the hills, with stops at waterfalls and tea estates along the way. Relax in Nuwara Eliya or a hill-country boutique hotel surrounded by greenery. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 12 :

Departure from Colombo

Transfer back to Colombo or directly to the airport for your onward flight, carrying memories of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage and thrilling wildlife.

12-Day Heritage & Wildlife Escape – Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Yala, Udawalawe & Sigiriya

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Walk Among Ancient Kings & Roam with Wild Elephants

Highlights

Itinerary – Day by Day Experience

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

Managed By

Overview

Itinerary

Cost

FAQs

Walk Among Ancient Kings & Roam with Wild Elephants

Highlights

Itinerary – Day by Day Experience

Includes/Excludes

Cost Includes

Cost Excludes

FAQs

You can send your enquiry via the form below.

Trip Info

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