Private Tour
12 Days Tour Grand Discovery of Sri Lanka
Overview
Available languages
288 hours
Mobile ticket
Embark on an immersive 12-day journey across Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and stunning coastlines. From the bustling energy of Colombo and the tranquility of Negombo’s lagoons to the ancient marvels of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, this itinerary promises a captivating blend of history, wildlife, and scenic beauty. Discover the sacred cities, engage with the vibrant local culture through village tours, and explore the island’s breathtaking highlands on a scenic train ride to Ella. Experience thrilling safaris in Yala, unwind on Weligama’s beaches, and witness majestic marine life off the southern coast. Conclude with a journey through Colombo’s modern attractions and historic sites for the perfect farewell.
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.<br>If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.
What To Expect
ARRIVAL IN COLOMBO/NEGOMBO & CITY EXPLORATION
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Sea view Hotel in Negombo ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Colombo City Walks
Colombo City Tour (based on arrival time): Explore Sri Lanka’s bustling capital with highlights such as Galle Face Green, Independence Memorial Hall, and Gangaramaya Temple. Visit the vibrant Pettah Market and take in the contrast between colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers.
Negombo Lagoon
Negombo Lagoon Tour (based on arrival time): A boat ride along the Negombo Lagoon offers serene views of mangroves, birdlife, and local fishermen at work.
PINNAWALA, VILLAGE TOUR & SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Nature Friendly Tropical Hotel in Sigiriya ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Millennium Elephant Foundation
Pinnawala Millennium Elephant Foundation Visit: Connect with Sri Lanka’s cherished elephants in a responsible and conservation-focused environment. Guided walks with elephants offer a close view into their world, while feeding experiences provide insight into their diet and habits. The foundation emphasizes ethical elephant care, making this a memorable and responsible encounter.
Sigiriya Craft Village
Village Tour: Dive into local village life with a guided tour that includes a bullock cart ride, a canoe ride on a scenic lake, and a traditional lunch served on lotus leaves. Witness how local farming and crafts are done, gaining insight into rural Sri Lankan customs and hospitality.
Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress
Sigiriya Rock Fortress: Ascend the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient marvel rising 200 meters above lush forests. As you climb, explore ancient frescoes and reach the summit to discover the ruins of a royal palace. The views from the top are stunning, offering sweeping panoramas and a powerful connection to Sri Lanka’s rich history.
ANCIENT MARVELS OF POLONNARUWA & WILDLIFE SAFARI
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Nature Friendly Tropical Hotel in Sigiriya ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour: Wander through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, exploring sites like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s stunning Buddha statues, and the Vatadage, which showcases the remarkable artistry of the ancient Sinhalese.
Minneriya National Park
Minneriya/Kawdulla National Park Safari: Experience an exciting safari where elephants roam freely among other wildlife, such as deer, monkeys, and exotic birds, in one of Asia's largest seasonal elephant gatherings.
SIGIRIYA TO KANDY WITH CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS
Accommodations
Overnight stay at City Hotel in Kandy ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Dambulla Cave Temple
Royal Cave Temple (Dambulla Cave Temple): Explore the UNESCO-listed caves adorned with hundreds of Buddha statues and frescoes depicting religious narratives. The intricate artwork, carved into the rock walls, illustrates the deep devotion and history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The temple complex is situated on a hill, providing sweeping views of the plains below—a spiritual and scenic experience.
Ranweli Spice Garden
Spice Garden in Matale: Discover the uses and healing properties of Sri Lanka's famous spices, with tastings and demonstrations.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic : One of the most revered Buddhist temples, this sacred site holds a tooth relic of Buddha and is set in a stunning lakeside complex. Explore the rich spiritual heritage and admire the intricate architecture and artwork that makes this a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show
Cultural Dance Show: In the evening, witness a vibrant performance showcasing traditional Kandyan dances, drumming, and fire-walking, providing an exciting and immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s cultural traditions.
THRILLS AND SCENIC BEAUTY IN KITULGALA
Accommodations
Overnight stay at City Hotel in Kandy ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Kandy Gem Centre
Gem Museum: This museum offers a fascinating look at Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry, known worldwide for its sapphires and rubies. Visitors can learn about the process of gemstone mining, view rare and beautiful gems, and explore the historical significance of gems in Sri Lanka.
Royal Botanical Gardens
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden: As one of Asia’s largest botanical gardens, Peradeniya boasts over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, and towering palms. A guided stroll through the garden reveals exotic plants, medicinal herbs, and stunning flower displays, making it a tranquil and scenic retreat for nature enthusiasts.
Rafting Kitulgala
White-water Rafting: Experience thrilling white-water rafting on the Kelani River, an adrenaline-pumping activity through scenic landscapes with Class II and III rapids.
EMBRACE THE CHARM OF LITTLE ENGLAND – NUWARA ELIYA
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Mount View Hotel in Nuwara Eliya ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden
Tea Factory Visit: Witness the journey of Ceylon tea from leaf to cup at a local tea plantation and factory. Learn about traditional tea-making methods, sample various teas, and take in the rolling green landscapes of Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwara Eliya Tours | Explore Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya City Tour: Stroll through the town’s colonial-era buildings, Victoria Park, and take in the scenic Gregory Lake.
SCENIC TRAIN RIDE TO ELLA
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Mount View Hotel in Ella Village ( 3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
Nanu Oya railway station
Scenic Train Journey: Witness. Renowned as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, this ride through misty hills, tea plantations, and forested landscapes is a highlight for any traveler. Breathtaking landscapes, including valleys, waterfalls, and quaint villages along the route provides unforgettable views and opportunities for beautiful photographs.
Nine Arches Bridge
Nine Arches Bridge (if time permits): Visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era engineering set amidst lush greenery. Watching a train pass over this bridge is a must-see, and the surrounding paths offer a peaceful hike.
YALA SAFARI
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Hotel in Thissamaharama (3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Ravana Ella Falls
Ravana Waterfall: Enjoy the beauty of this iconic waterfall, cascading from steep heights, surrounded by lush greenery.
Yala National Park
Evening Safari in Yala: Embark on a thrilling morning safari through Yala National Park, famous for its leopard sightings. The diverse wildlife, from elephants to spotted deer, makes this an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers.
BEACH LEISURE IN WELIGAMA/DICKWELLA
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Sea view Hotel in Dikwella/ WEligama (3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Hummanaya Blow Hole
Natural Blow Hole (Hummanaya) near Dickwella: This unique geological site produces dramatic waterspouts during high tide.
Dikwella
Beach Relaxation & Scenic Views: Unwind on the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Weligama, or Dickwella, taking in the coastal views.
WHALE WATCHING
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Sea view Hotel in Dikwella/ WEligama (3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Mirissa Whales
Whale Watching: Join an exhilarating whale-watching tour, where you might spot blue whales, dolphins, and other marine life. The sight of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a true highlight. (Seasonal Activity)
Dikwella
Beach Relaxation & Scenic Views: Unwind on the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Weligama, or Dickwella, taking in the coastal views.
GALLE FORT, MADU RIVER SAFARI & TURTLE HATCHERY
Accommodations
Overnight stay at Sea view Hotel in Bentota (3 Star Class)
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
DINNER
Dinner
Dinner at the hotel Included
Galle Dutch Fort
Explore Galle Fort: Walk through this 16th-century fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. The fort is a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, with cafes, art galleries, and historical landmarks along the way
Madu River Safari
Madu River Safari: Embark on a relaxing boat ride through the serene Madu River, navigating past mangroves and small islands, where you’ll encounter wildlife, including birds and monitor lizards. Explore the local cinnamon industry and enjoy scenic island views
Turtle Hatchery Hikkaduwa
Turtle Hatchery: Visit a turtle conservation project where you can learn about and observe sea turtles at various stages of development, from hatchlings to adults, emphasizing efforts to protect endangered species.
DEPARTURE FROM COLOMBO
Food and Drinks
BREAKFAST
Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel Included
Colombo City Walks
Colombo City Tour (based on departure time): Explore Sri Lanka’s bustling capital with highlights such as Galle Face Green, Independence Memorial Hall, and Gangaramaya Temple. Visit the vibrant Pettah Market and take in the contrast between colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers.
What‘s Included
Ceylon Gem Factory visit
Ceylon Tea Plantation and Factory Visit
Herbal Garden Visit
Polonnaruwa Bicycle tour Bicycle Hire
Nine Arches Bridge & Ravana Waterfall Visit
Cultural Dance Show
Cultural Village tour with local lunch at farmer’s house
Galle Fort Visit
Colombo City tour including Galle Face Green, Independence Memorial Hall, and Gangaramaya Temple
Nuwara Eliya City Tour
Turtle Hatchery Entrance Fees
Little Adam’s Peack Visit
White Water Rafting Admission
Airfare to and from Sri Lanka
All the Excursions and Activity fees not mentioned as includes
Meals that are not mentioned as included (except where specified as included)
Personal expenses & Alcoholic beverages
Travel insurance
Visa fees for entry into Sri Lanka
Tipping for drivers, guides, or hotel staff. (Suggest tips for especially drivers and guides.)
Extra hotel stays before or after the itinerary
Late check-out & early check-in charges
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
12 Days Tour Grand Discovery of Sri Lanka
Pickup included
Reviews
28 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Exotic pearl with guide chinthaka silva
joaossilva22,,Dec 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The best guide possible. Whenever he wanted to photograph, he stopped and gave all the time he needed. No one is the same!!!!!!!
Tour of Sri Lanka – An unforgettable experience!
53antond,,Nov 15, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our nine-day tour of Sri Lanka was a real highlight! From day one we were warmly welcomed and were able to discover the beauty and diversity of the “pearl of the Indian Ocean”. The fortress of Galle was particularly impressive – a wonderful start. The Jeep Safari in Yala National Park was an exciting adventure, and in Ella we enjoyed breathtaking scenery and relaxing moments. The drive to Kandy took us through picturesque areas, and our guide introduced us to Sri Lankan culture, history and Buddhism in an exciting way. The rock fortress of Sigiriya and the temples of Dambulla were the crowning achievement of this impressive journey. Our German speaking guide was excellent – safe, competent and with great knowledge of flora, fauna and the life of the locals. Thanks to his air-conditioned vehicle and pleasant manner, the entire tour was interesting, relaxed and stress-free. The guide was always available on time and reliable and the airport transfer was flawlessly good! In summary, it was an all-round successful trip full of impressions, encounters and experiences – absolutely recommended for every Sri Lanka traveler! 🌴🇱🇰
A road well travelled
keithwK601EG,,Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Exotic Perla customised my tour to my exact request. They also changed a couple of things during my tour for me without any hassles. Cost of tour was good, my guide Chinthaka was not only informative but he seemed to know everyone wherever we went which made the experience even more personally made for me. Accommodation and food was great, staff were very friendly and helpful.
Incredible 2 weeks!
Inspiration558151,,Nov 8, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We spent two incredible weeks with Buddhika and Chandana which I will never forget. We were treated like family from day one. I can't begin to thank them enough for such a perfect tour of their beautiful country. Chandana's driving was excellent and we always felt very safe. Buddhika is extremely knowledgeable and very passionate about Sri Lanka. I learnt so much from my time with him. He had also planned the best trip with the perfect mix of activities ranging from many interesting cultural excursions to exhilarating wildlife safari's. The accommodation he had selected for us was always perfect. One night we were staying in a deluxe tent in the jungle and the next we were in a top floor suite overlooking the ocean. The variety of accommodation he managed to provide whilst still maintaining the upmost comfort for us was very impressive. Buddhika was also extremely helpful when one member of our group suffered an injury. His assistance in all aspects of this situation, from translating with local doctors to organising treatment, were exceptional. He is a truly lovely human being and he looked after us so well. And again, Chandana was amazing. His calm, kind and patient presence kept the trip rolling smoothly at all times. Thank you again for a truly special holiday that I will never forget! Lots of love, Rob
Exciting, informative, relaxing Ultimate Tour
TrailBlazer550420,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00The tour was fantastic. Well planned, informative and great fun. We were efficiently greeted and it was brilliant for the whole trip. Our guides looked after us and were flexible in terms of what we wanted to see, and when we wanted to pause and rest. Sri Lanka is an excellent country to visit and everyone was welcoming. The hotels and transport was very good and the visits were weol chosen. We truly felt we experienced great examples of what Sri Lanka is about - historical, physical, cultural, environmental and scenic - all in all fantastic.
Incredible Tour of Sri Lanka. Unique with amazing experiences beyond expectations.
juliafV4849XO,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This tour was fantastic and we had the best time! The culture and history was explained with careful insight when we visited ancient and historical sights. We were treated to amazing views and wildlife, with extra treats and tasters every step of the way. Our tour guide Buddhika and driver Chandana looked after everything, planning with precision and adapting to our needs when required. I simply cannot fault anything, the tour, the hotels, the transportation were all fabulous and far exceeded our expectations.
Exotic Perla Sri Lanka Highlights Tour Oct/Nov 2025
colflynn,,Nov 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Well what a trip. Sri Lanka is an incredible place with fascinating history and truly lovel people. Just give them a smile and they will beam back at you! We had absolutely brilliant two weeks all very carefully and professionally planned. So many great things that we have seen and done and all facilitated and enhanced by our knowledgeable and fun guide Buddhika and our skilled driver Chandana. Literally nothing was too much trouble as the Perla team tuned the trip to our requests. The accommodation was also outstanding with really lovely hotels in great locations. Highlights are too many to list but I absolutely loved the national parks, over 150 elephants gathered at the lake in Minneriya National Park! A sight I never thought I would see. Sigiriya (Lion Rock) was spectacular even though I'm nervous of heights! The buddhist cave temple at Dambulla was stunning. One last highlight was the visit to the tea plantations and meeting the lovely tea picking ladies, I could easily list more but you can check out the brochures. If I ever have the opportunity to return to Sri Lanka (and I hope I do) I will go straight to Exotic Perla!
SRI LANKA TOUR
Jet61740229200,,Oct 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00It was a fantastic 2 weeks experience. Tour was superbly organised. Buddhika ( guide ) was extremely professional ,very knowledgeable and friendly. He was available for any requests, nothing was any problems for him. Everything went smoothly. Driver was always on time ,polite & his driving was perfect ,kept us safe. Definitely would recommend Buddhika & Exotic Perla to anyone in future .
Amazing tour! Amazing Place! Amazing Guide!
Milomymsie,,Oct 3, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00eview “Sri Lanka you have my Heart❤️”My tour leader Buddi of Exotic Perla was fantastic he went above and beyond to show us his beautiful country that he was obviously very proud of. He was knowledgeable, friendly, helpful and took us to many many wonderful sights, both natural and historic. We saw 4 UNESCO World Heritage Sites, elephants, tea plantation , turtles, safari in Yala, Temples, waterfalls, mountains, and beaches. We took boat rides to islands, we sat on stools in a lake and ate fresh fruit, shopped in the markets, learnt about the natural herbs and spices, and about how the Ceylon sapphires are found, and so so much more. We stayed at fabulous hotels, ate delicious fresh food and sampled the local dishes. Amazing value for money, when I return I would not hesitate to use his company again and recommend to all my friends family and anyone wanting the full experience of Beautiful Sri Lanka. A trip of a lifetime with Buddi our guide, there every step of the way, I felt completely safe. Thank you Buddi my friend xx
Amazing Sri Lanka holiday tour
Fiona1055,,Oct 2, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00I had a great time with Exotic Perla in Sri Lanka. Our host was very knowledgeable and super friendly, nothing was too much trouble. The hotels we stayed in were lovely and in great locations, each one different. Transport during the tour was comfortable. Itinerary was full, with some additional options if we wanted to do them. We covered lots of sites and activities during our two weeks, it was great fun and I felt we saw all sides of this lovely country. I would definitely recommend this company for your holiday.
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