What is a round tour?
This small, yet beautiful island of Sri Lanka has so much to offer – ancient cities, temples, tea plantations, scenic mountains, wild animals, unique flora and fauna, as well as some amazing beaches. A round tour of Sri Lanka begins from Colombo, takes you around all the most popular attractions across the island in a private, air-conditioned, ultra comfortable vehicle with your group of family/friends, and brings you back to Colombo to wrap up your holiday with some shopping! Not only do you have a private vehicle to yourself with the freedom and flexibility to travel at your timings and go wherever you wish to, we also provide a chauffeur cum guide who will be with you to assist in your needs throughout your tour in Sri Lanka.
We can arrange your accommodation at luxury family friendly hotels or resorts across the island, depending on your budget and preferences. Amidst this round tour, we will take you to destinations that offer exciting activities such as water sports, camping, trekking, and more. If there is anything in particular that you’d like us to include in your Sri Lanka tour itinerary, just let us know and we will have it covered. In the meantime, below are a few places that we recommend must be included in your round tour of Sri Lanka.
Recommended destinations in a round tour of Sri Lanka
Colombo
Colombo is the commercial capital of the island and is generally the first and last stop of a round tour of Sri Lanka. During the first stop, you would ideally go on a city tour to visit landmarks such as the Independence Square, Parliament, National Museum, Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah market and some malls. Look around for what is available and the prices so you know how to compare if you come across the same items during your tour in Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura
The ancient city of Anuradhapura is a 4-hour drive from Colombo and is a must-visit to explore the depth of Sri Lanka’s rich history. En-route, you will have the opportunity to visit the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress – a 300-foot fortified wonder that was built in the 13th century.
You will visit the Mihintale Buddhist Temple from Anuradhapura – which has the significance of being the first Buddhist Temple in Sri Lanka. Other historic highlights in Anuradhapura are:
- Sri Maha Bodhiya – the largest living Bo Tree
- Ruwanwelisaya
- Abhayagiri Dagoba
- Jetavanarama
- Mirisaveti Stupa
- Lankarama
Sigiriya
Sigiriya is a historical destination that adds some adventure to your trip. The Lion’s Rock is a fortress built on top of a rock by an ancient King of Sri Lanka. Climb to the top via a staircase, observe some beautifully painted frescoes, and a stunning entrance marked by the paws of a Lion’s feet. At the summit are remnants of the fortress and a gorgeous view of the surrounding areas.
The Dambulla Cave Temples are also a neighboring attraction that must not be missed. After a short climb, you will reach a collection of caves, within which temples and Buddha statues are cleverly built.
Kandy
En-route Kandy is some elephant fun at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage where you can mingle with the elephant lifestyle – touch them, feed them, and watch them bathe themselves. Once in Kandy, you can visit the Royal Botanical Gardens for some exclusive flora that Sri Lanka is proud of. Dating back to the 14th century of the British rule, the Orchid collection is commendable here amidst 4000 other species of medicinal plants, spices and palm trees.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is another must-visit that attracts Buddhists from all over the world. Known to have roofed the relic of Lord Buddha’s Tooth, the architecture and religious atmosphere inside the temple is what attracts tourists. An evening cultural Kandyan dance show is usually recommended to wrap up the day’s activities.
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya offers panoramic beauty of the hill country, along with vibes of being taken back to the British Era. Also known as “Little England”, this scenic town presents jaw-dropping views of waterfalls amongst hills, luscious tea plantations and serene greenery. A visit to a tea factory, a waterfall bath, activities on Lake Gregory, a strawberry indulgent meal, and a stroll around the Victoria Park are a must during your stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Ella
Gradually becoming more and more popular as a tourist destination, Ella is small and peaceful town offering breathtaking views as well as exciting attractions such as the Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, Ella Rock, Ravana Waterfall and Ravana Caves. If you have a night in Ella, consider waking up before sunrise to observe the “Ella Gap” – an astonishing view between two cliffs that can be seen every morning.
Yala
Adding a little bit of wildlife encounters into your round tour of Sri Lanka makes it all the more fun and exciting. Yala National Park is the most popular of its kind in Sri Lanka and boasts sightings of wildlife such as sloth bear, water buffalo, jackal, spotted deer, elephants, and the big leopard, in addition to several other bird and reptile varieties. A jeep must be hired to take you and your family into the park – which is about a 3-hour drive where you can take your time in exploring the wildlife in Sri Lanka.
Galle
Located along the southern coast of Sri Lanka, Galle is a very touristic destination with a gorgeous beach, and an iconic fort that dates back to the Dutch era. Alleys lined up with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and ice cream joints attract more visitors and make it a lively place to be. Nearby attractions from Galle are the turtle hatchery, Madu River boat Safari, adventurous water sports, and more beautiful beaches.
Wrap up your round tour in Sri Lanka with one last day in Colombo to complete your shopping list, meet family, friends or business colleagues. If you’ve missed out on visiting any places, you can do so on the last day. Depending on the time of your flight, schedule to leave Colombo with 45 minutes to reach the airport.
How to book a round tour in Sri Lanka?
Get in touch with our team of friendly consultants at Blue Lanka Tours to plan your round tour of Sri Lanka in a comfortable vehicle, with a private guide/driver who will be with you throughout the tour.
Things to know about a round tour in Sri Lanka
- Is vegetarian food easily available?
Yes, most of the hotels and restaurants have a vegetarian menu. - Is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress easy to climb?
There are approximately 1200 steps and takes about 2-3 hours to go up and down. - What will be the model of the jeep that is used for the safari?
There are two types – the American and the Indian. Usually, it is the Toyota Hilux – open air jeep. - Will baby seats be provided upon request?
- Are the beaches on the south coast swim safe?
Most of the beaches on the south coast are swim safe – Galle, Unawatuna, Bentota and Hikkaduwa to name a few. - What is appropriate to wear to cultural attractions in Anuradhapura?
Anything that covers your shoulders and is below knee length is suitable. Your head should not be covered. - What are some important things to pack for a round tour of Sri Lanka?
Cool clothing, a pair of shoes, flip flops, mosquito repellent and swimwear.