The Complete 10-Day
Sri Lanka Adventure
Go beyond the basics. From secret waterfalls and village cooking classes to leopards in the wild and relaxing sunsets on the south coast.
Duration
10 Days / 9 Nights
Start / End
Airport (CMB)
Pace
Medium / Relaxed
Why this 10-day route?
This is our most requested itinerary for travelers who want to see it all without feeling rushed. You get the perfect mix of Ancient Culture (Sigiriya & Kandy), Nature (Ella & Nuwara Eliya), Wildlife (Yala Safari), and Beach Relaxation (Mirissa/Bentota). Plus, with a private driver, you can stop for fresh king coconut or photos whenever you like.
★ What is included in your price:
- Private AC Vehicle (Car/Van)
- English-Speaking Driver Guide
- Gas, Tolls, & Parking Fees
- Driver's Food & Accommodation
- Airport Pick-up & Drop-off
- Local Hidden Gem Recommendations
Day-by-Day Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to the Tropics
Route: Airport → Dambulla
After a warm welcome at the airport, we head straight to the Cultural Triangle. Shake off the jet lag with a visit to the Golden Temple of Dambulla. In the evening, we can hike Pidurangala Rock for a stunning sunset view facing Sigiriya.
Day 2: The Lion Rock Fortress
Route: Sigiriya → Kandy
We beat the crowds with an early morning climb of the UNESCO World Heritage Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Afterwards, we drive to the hill capital, Kandy, stopping at a spice garden en route. Evening cultural dance show and Temple of the Tooth visit.
Day 3: Into the Misty Mountains
Route: Kandy → Nuwara Eliya
A scenic ascent into "Little England." We wind through endless green tea plantations, visit a working Tea Factory to taste pure Ceylon tea, and see the majestic Ramboda Falls. Enjoy the cool climate and colonial architecture.
Day 4: The Iconic Train Ride
Activity: Train to Ella
We drop you at Nanu Oya station for the world-famous scenic train ride to Ella. Hang out the door (safely!) and enjoy the views while your driver takes your bags to Ella. Evening chill in the backpacker-friendly town of Ella.
Day 5: Ella's Peaks & Bridges
Activity: Hiking & Sightseeing
Start with a photo op at the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Then, an easy hike up Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views. Optional: Visit the Ravana Pool Club or try the Flying Ravana zipline if you're feeling adventurous.
Day 6: Wildlife Safari
Route: Ella → Yala / Udawalawe
We descend from the hills to the dry zone. Check into your safari hotel and head out for an evening 4x4 Jeep Safari. Whether it's the leopards of Yala or the elephant herds of Udawalawe, this is a highlight of the trip.
Day 7: The South Coast
Route: Yala → Mirissa / Unawatuna
Time for the beach! We drive along the scenic southern coastline. Relax on the golden sands of Mirissa or Unawatuna. Optional: Coconut Tree Hill sunset or seasonal whale watching.
Day 8: Dutch Fort History
Activity: Galle Fort & Turtle Hatchery
Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, wandering its cobbled streets lined with cafes and boutiques. On the way north, we can visit a sea turtle conservation project to see baby turtles being rehabilitated.
Day 9: Tropical River Safari
Route: Bentota → Colombo
Relax in the beach resort town of Bentota. Take a boat safari on the Madu River mangrove forests. In the late afternoon, we head to the capital, Colombo, for a city tour and some last-minute shopping.
Day 10: Departure
Route: Colombo → Airport
After breakfast (or depending on your flight time), your driver will transfer you to the airport. You leave with photos, souvenirs, and unforgettable memories of this island paradise!
Mia wrote a review
Today
One of the best & unique experiences I had in Sri Lanka
“I just did a 10-day solo trip with a Tour guide. His name is Cham from Sri Lankkan Private driver team, and it was one of the best & unique experiences I had in Sri Lanka. That's why I want to warmly recommend him to you.
Let me tell you, Cham is a master at uncovering hidden gems and secret waterfalls that only a local like him could know... it was the little details that made this trip special.
The tour included visiting his parent's home where his mom cooked delicious food—since that day I eat rice & curry only with my hands! I even spontaneously got invited to a wedding in Kandy and we organized a traditional Sari!”
Date of experience: December 2025
Private Driver Service
Fixed daily rate • No hidden fees
Response typically within 15 mins
Looking to plan something different from our 10-day tour package?
Our local expert team is ready to create a personalized tour to help you explore Sri Lanka at your own pace.