yala safari

LANKA ESSENCE TOUR

$2240 USD / Person/Starting from

12 Days
11 Nights

Overview

The Lanka Essence Tour is a 12-day journey that captures the soul of Sri Lanka. From the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and ancient Dambulla Cave Temples to the cultural heart of Kandy and the lush tea trails of Ella, this itinerary blends history, culture, and natural beauty.

Highlights include a scenic train ride through the hill country, encounters with elephants and leopards at Minneriya and Yala National Parks, and leisure time along the golden beaches of Galle. Designed for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation, this tour is the perfect way to experience Sri Lanka’s diversity.

Address:

Sri Lanka

Currency Used:

USD/AUD

Email:

info@wandarraexperiences.com.au

Country:

Sri Lanka

Language:

English

Phone:

+61415079071

Tour Plan

This detailed tour plan ensures a seamless journey across Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking landscapes and cultural landmarks. Each day is carefully designed to balance exploration with relaxation—giving you the chance to discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites, enjoy authentic local experiences, and immerse yourself in the island’s natural beauty.

 

From wildlife safaris and spice gardens to colonial forts and tropical beaches, every stop adds a new layer to your Sri Lankan adventure. With expert guidance, handpicked hotels, and private transport, your holiday will be as stress-free as it is unforgettable.

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Day 1 – Arrival in Sri Lanka | Habarana
minneriya

Welcome to Sri Lanka – the land like no other! On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be greeted by our representative and transferred to Habarana (approx. 4 hrs). Check into your hotel and relax after your long flight.

Overnight Stay: Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room (Half Board)

Sigiriya

Start the morning with a packed breakfast and climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as the 8th Wonder of the World. Marvel at the ancient frescoes, water gardens, and the remains of a royal citadel.

In the afternoon, enjoy a thrilling safari at Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park (private jeep), where you’ll spot herds of elephants, sambar deer, leopards, and exotic birdlife.

Overnight Stay: Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room (Half Board)

Rangiri Dambulla

Check out and drive to Kandy (approx. 3 hrs). On the way, visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, famous for ancient Buddhist art and sculptures. Next, stop at the Matale Spice Gardens, where you’ll enjoy a cooking demonstration and authentic Sri Lankan lunch.

Continue your journey to Kandy, the island’s cultural capital, and check in at your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy – Superior Room (Half Board)

kandy

Begin the day with a stroll through the lush Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya, home to more than 10,000 species of flora. Later, witness an energetic Kandyan cultural dance performance, followed by a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine.

Overnight Stay: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy – Superior Room (Half Board)

ella

Today, experience one of the most scenic train rides in the world—from Kandy to Ella (approx. 6.5 hrs). Pass tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages along the way. On arrival at Ella Railway Station, transfer to your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Ekho Ella – Premier Room (Bed & Breakfast)

ella

Spend the day discovering Ella’s natural beauty. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, and marvel at the cascading Ravana Falls.

Overnight Stay: Ekho Ella – Premier Room (Bed & Breakfast)

yala Safari

After breakfast, drive to Yala (approx. 4.5 hrs). Arrive and check in at your jungle lodge. The rest of the day is free to relax amidst nature.

Overnight Stay: Cinnamon Wild Yala – Jungle Chalet (Half Board)

yala

Embark on an early morning jeep safari at Yala National Park (private basis). This is Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife sanctuary, home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and more. With one of the world’s highest leopard densities, Yala is a must for nature lovers.

Overnight Stay: Cinnamon Wild Yala – Jungle Chalet (Half Board)

galle

Travel to the historic coastal city of Galle (approx. 2 hrs). Check into your beachside hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Galle – Deluxe Sea View (Bed & Breakfast)

galle

Step back in time with a guided walking tour of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore cobblestone streets, Dutch-era churches, colonial houses, boutique shops, and charming cafés, all within the fort’s preserved ramparts.

Overnight Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Galle – Deluxe Sea View (Bed & Breakfast)

beach

Spend a full day at leisure on the southern coast. Relax on the beach, enjoy optional water sports, or indulge in spa treatments at your hotel.

Overnight Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Galle – Deluxe Sea View (Bed & Breakfast)

Departure

After breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (approx. 2 hrs) for your departure flight. Please arrive at least 3 hours prior to your flight.

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✅ What’s Included

  • Accommodation in the specified hotels (Check-in: 14:00 hrs / Check-out: 12:00 hrs).

  • Daily meals as per itinerary:

    • Half Board (breakfast & dinner) at Habarana, Kandy, and Yala.

    • Bed & Breakfast at Ella and Galle.

  • Private air-conditioned car with professional English-speaking chauffeur-guide.

  • Airport meet & greet assistance and return airport transfers.

  • Entrance fees & experiences as per itinerary:

    • Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

    • Safari at Minneriya / Kaudulla / Hurulu Eco Park (private jeep).

    • Dambulla Cave Temple.

    • Matale Spice Garden visit with cooking demo & lunch.

    • Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya.

    • Temple of the Tooth Relic, Kandy.

    • Kandy Cultural Dance Show.

    • Scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella (reserved seats).

    • Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arch Bridge & Ravana Falls (Ella).

    • Morning jeep safari at Yala National Park (private basis).

    • Guided tour of Galle Fort.

  • Wi-Fi during round-tour transfers.

  • All currently applicable government taxes.

❌ What’s Excluded

  • Breakfast on Day 1, lunch throughout, and dinner at Ella, Galle, and on the last day.

  • International or domestic airfares.

  • Sri Lanka visa fees (apply online at www.eta.gov.lk).

  • Early check-in / late check-out charges.

  • Tips & gratuities.

  • Travel & medical insurance.

  • Camera & video permit charges at monuments where applicable.

  • Personal expenses (laundry, minibar, telephone, hotel extras, etc.).

  • Optional excursions and activities not mentioned in the itinerary.

  • Compulsory seasonal supplements (Christmas & New Year) – charged separately.

💰 Tour Cost Details

(Valid from 01st November 2025 to 30th April 2026 – seasonal supplements apply)

Based on 02 persons traveling together in a private air-conditioned car

Travel DatesPrice per Person (Double Sharing)
01 Nov – 30 Nov 2025USD 2,275 net per person
01 Dec – 20 Dec 2025USD 2,345 net per person
21 Dec 2025 – 10 Jan 2026USD 2,760 net per person
11 Jan – 28 Feb 2026USD 2,690 net per person
01 Mar – 31 Mar 2026USD 2,660 net per person
01 Apr – 30 Apr 2026USD 2,455 net per person

 

📌 Important Notice
  • Standard hotel check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 12:00 PM.

  • Transfer times mentioned are approximate and may vary due to traffic, weather, or road conditions.

  • Optional excursions and activities can be booked directly and paid for locally.

  • Alcohol will not be served in public areas of hotels on Poya Days (Buddhist religious holidays) as per Sri Lankan law.

  • Rates are subject to change if government taxes, hotel policies, or currency exchange rates fluctuate.

  • Please review hotel websites and independent reviews to ensure accommodations meet your expectations.

  • Hotel and train ticket availability will be confirmed only at the time of booking. If unavailable, suitable alternatives will be offered.


💳 Payment Policy
  • 30% advance payment is required to confirm the booking.

  • Full payment must be made 50 days prior to arrival.

  • Payments can be made via bank transfer (details will be provided upon confirmation).


Cancellation Policy
  • Cancellations made 45 days or more before arrival: 100% of the tour cost will be charged.

  • No refunds for no-shows, early departures, or unused services.

  • Seasonal supplements (Christmas & New Year) are non-refundable once booked.