How to Plan Your Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka

If you’re looking to experience the best of Sri Lanka in one trip, the Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka is the perfect choice. This six-day guided tour takes you through some of the country’s most iconic destinations, from the ancient city of Polonnaruwa to the stunning landscapes of Ella. Here’s everything you need to know to plan your tour.

Overview of the Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka

The Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka is a six-day guided tour that takes you through some of the most famous destinations in the country. The tour starts in the capital city of Colombo and includes stops in Sigiriya, Pidurangala, Kandy, and Ella. You’ll get to visit ancient ruins, hike through beautiful landscapes, and experience the local culture and cuisine.

What’s Included in the Tour?

The Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka includes the following: – A personal in-person guide – Lunch on all six days of the tour – Pickup and drop-off at selected locations – Entrance fees to all the attractions visited – Comfortable transportation in a wheelchair-accessible vehicle

Meeting and Pickup

On the first day of the tour, you’ll be picked up from your hotel in Colombo at 12:00 AM. If you require pickup from a different location, you can select one of the designated pickup points during booking.

Itinerary

Here’s a breakdown of the tour itinerary:

Day 1: Polonnaruwa Kingdom

You’ll start your tour by visiting the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to the 13th century. You’ll get to explore the well-preserved ruins of the royal palace, temples, and other landmarks of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom. You’ll also visit the Gal Vihara, a set of four Buddhist statues carved into granite.

Day 2: Sigiriya Lion Rock

On the second day of the tour, you’ll visit the Sigiriya Lion Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. The rock fortress, which dates back to the 5th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its stunning frescoes, gardens, and water gardens. You’ll also get to climb to the top of the rock and take in the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

Day 3: Pidurangala Rock

The third day of the tour takes you to the Pidurangala Rock, a lesser-known but equally stunning destination near Sigiriya. You’ll hike to the top of the rock and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. You’ll also get to see a reclining Buddha statue and other ancient ruins on the hike.

Day 4: Kandy

On the fourth day, you’ll visit the city of Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings’ era in Sri Lanka. You’ll get to see the Temple of the Tooth, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that houses the relic of Buddha’s tooth. You’ll also visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, which is known for its wide range of plant species and orchid collection.

Day 5: Ella

The fifth day of the tour takes you to Ella, a small town in the hill country known for its stunning landscapes and hiking trails. You’ll visit the Little Adam’s Peak and the Nine Arch Bridge, two of the most popular destinations in the area.

Day 6: Ella 2-day

On the final day of the tour, you’ll get to explore more of Ella’s natural beauty. You’ll hike to the top of the Ella Rock, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. You’ll also visit the Ravana Falls, a beautiful waterfall that has significance in Sri Lankan mythology.

Additional Information

Here are some important details to keep in mind: – Confirmation will be received at the time of booking – The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible – Transportation is also wheelchair accessible – The cancellation policy allows for a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before the tour’s start time. Changes made less than 24 hours before the start time will not be accepted.

Book Your Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka

Ready to experience the best of Sri Lanka? Book your Highlights Tour in Sri Lanka today and get ready for an unforgettable adventure. Book the tour here and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime.

Frequently Asked Questions about Colombo

Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and bustling city that attracts both local and international visitors. Being a mix of old and new, Colombo is a city that offers something unique to every traveler. In this FAQ guide, we will address some common questions about Colombo.

1. What is the best time to visit Colombo?

The weather in Colombo is generally hot and humid throughout the year. However, the best time to visit Colombo is from December to March when the weather is comparatively cooler and less humid. Avoid visiting Colombo from May to September as this is the monsoon season and there might be heavy rains and flooding.

2. What are the top attractions in Colombo?

Colombo has many attractions for visitors, including:

• The National Museum of Colombo – a must-visit attraction for history buffs as it houses many artifacts and exhibits that illustrate the history of Sri Lanka.
• Gangaramaya Temple – a beautiful temple with a mix of different architectural styles and houses many Buddha statues, paintings and other relics.
• Viharamahadevi Park – a beautiful green space with a large statue of Queen Viharamahadevi and a peaceful lake.
• Galle Face Green – a long stretch of beach-like park that lies along the coast and provides a beautiful sunset view.

3. What are the best places to shop in Colombo?

Colombo has many great shopping destinations. Some of the best ones include:

• Pettah Market – a bustling market with many shops that sell everything from textiles to electronics.
• Odel – a high-end shopping mall that offers designer clothing, jewelry, and accessories.
• Crescat Boulevard – a shopping center that has many international brands and also offers a food court with a variety of cuisines.

4. What are the best restaurants in Colombo?

Colombo is famous for its delicious cuisine. Some of the best restaurants in Colombo include:

• Nuga Gama – a restaurant that serves traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a village-style setting.
• The Lagoon – a seafood restaurant that offers a variety of seafood dishes.
• Ministry of Crab – a restaurant that serves Sri Lankan-style crab dishes.

5. What is the best way to get around Colombo?

The best way to get around Colombo is by tuk-tuk or taxi. However, traffic can be heavy, especially during peak hours, so it’s important to factor in extra travel time.

6. Is Colombo safe for tourists?

Colombo is generally a safe city for tourists. However, it’s important to take necessary precautions, such as not walking alone on deserted streets or carrying large sums of money. Avoid leaving your belongings unattended or in plain sight, especially in crowded areas.

7. What is the currency used in Colombo?

The currency used in Colombo is the Sri Lankan rupee (LKR).

8. Is English spoken in Colombo?

Yes, English is widely spoken in Colombo, especially in tourist areas.

9. What are the customs and traditions in Colombo?

Colombo is a multi-ethnic, multi-cultural city, so there are many different customs and traditions observed. However, as a general rule, it’s important to dress conservatively, especially when visiting temples or other religious sites. It’s also important to show respect for the culture and traditions of the locals, such as removing your shoes before entering a temple or home.

10. What is the nightlife like in Colombo?

Colombo has a vibrant nightlife scene with many bars and nightclubs. However, it’s important to note that alcohol is not served in public places on Poya days (days of religious significance) and other national holidays.

Book Your Tour Now

Colombo is a city that has something for everyone. Its rich history, beautiful attractions, delicious food, and vibrant nightlife make it an exciting destination for tourists. By following the customs and traditions of the locals and taking necessary precautions, visitors can have a safe and enjoyable trip to this beautiful city.

How to spend your time as a tourist in Colombo

Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and bustling city with a rich history and culture. As a tourist, there are plenty of things to do and see in Colombo. From exploring the city’s ancient temples and monuments to experiencing its delicious food and lively nightlife, Colombo offers something for everyone. In this guide, we will take you through some of the top things to do and see in Colombo.

1. Visit the historic Galle Face Green

Galle Face Green is a must-visit destination in Colombo for all tourists. It is a 5-hectare ocean-facing green space located in the heart of Colombo. It offers a picturesque view of the Indian Ocean and is perfect for taking a walk, enjoying a picnic or watching a sunset. It is an ideal place to relax and soak up the local culture.

2. Explore the ancient Gangaramaya Temple

Gangaramaya Temple is an ancient Buddhist temple located in the heart of Colombo. It houses a large number of artifacts, including statues, paintings, and carvings. The temple is a popular attraction for tourists and offers a unique insight into Buddhist culture and beliefs. It is also home to a museum that houses an impressive collection of Buddhist artifacts.

3. Discover the National Museum of Colombo

The National Museum of Colombo is a great place to discover the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. It houses a vast collection of historical artifacts, sculptures, and artwork from various eras. The museum is located in a beautiful colonial building and offers a unique insight into Sri Lanka’s rich heritage.

4. Shop at the famous Pettah Market

Pettah Market is a bustling, open-air bazaar located in the heart of Colombo. It is a vibrant and colorful market, selling everything from clothes, jewelry, spices, and souvenirs. The market is a fun and lively place to shop, and bargaining is expected.

5. Visit the Colombo Fort area

The Colombo Fort area is the commercial center of Colombo and is home to many of the city’s largest businesses and government offices. It is also an excellent place to explore for tourists. The area features many historic buildings, including the Old Dutch Hospital, the Red Mosque, and the Clock Tower. It is also great for shopping, with many high-end stores and malls.

6. Enjoy a sunset cruise in the Indian Ocean

Take a sunset cruise in the Indian Ocean and experience the beauty of Colombo from a different perspective. There are plenty of cruise operators available to choose from, and most offer dinner and drinks onboard. It is a perfect way to end a day exploring the city.

7. Taste the local cuisine

No trip to Colombo is complete without trying the local food. Colombo is renowned for its delicious cuisine, which is a blend of Indian, Malay, and European influences. Some of the must-try dishes include hoppers, kottu, and string hoppers. You can find street vendors selling these dishes all over the city.

8. Experience the vibrant nightlife

Colombo has a vibrant and exciting nightlife scene, with plenty of bars, clubs, and restaurants open until the early hours of the morning. Some of the popular spots include Bally’s Casino, Taphouse by RnR, and Zanzibar. It is the perfect place to let your hair down after a day of exploring the city.

Book Your Tour Now

Colombo is a great place to visit for any tourist looking for a unique and exciting experience. With its ancient temples, bustling markets, and vibrant nightlife, Colombo has something for everyone. Make sure you follow our guide to get the best out of your trip to Colombo.