7-Day Private Sri Lanka Tour with Scenic Train Ride and Yala Safari

7 Days Round trip from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) Easy pace

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The journey

Trip highlights

01 Explore Sigiriya's legendary rock fortress area, with an optional village experience including catamaran and bullock cart rides
02 Visit UNESCO-listed cultural treasures like Dambulla Cave Temple and Galle Dutch Fort, plus the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
03 Journey through the tea highlands with a tea plantation and factory visit, fresh Ceylon tea tasting, and a stop at Ramboda Falls
04 Take the renowned scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, then visit Nine Arches Bridge and Ravana Falls
05 Head out on a 4x4 jeep safari in Yala National Park and finish with Madu River boating, a turtle hatchery visit, and a walk through Galle Fort

Discover Sri Lanka's most iconic landscapes and experiences on this 7-day private journey, blending ancient wonders, living culture, misty tea-country scenery, thrilling wildlife, and a relaxing southern-coast finale. From the Cultural Triangle and sacred Kandy to the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya and the picture-perfect hills of Ella, each day is designed for smooth travel, immersive stops, and memorable moments. Enjoy signature experiences like the Sigiriya area village life, a world-famous scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, a Ceylon tea factory visit, a thrilling Yala National Park jeep safari, a turtle conservation visit, and the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Your trip concludes with a Colombo city tour and a comfortable private transfer for departure.

At a glance

What this trip includes

Duration 7 Days

Tour type Private

Activity level Easy

Accommodation Not included

Transport Included

Wheelchair access Yes

Cities Colombo, Galle, Kandy, Dambulla, Mirissa, Negombo, Sigiriya, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park

Languages English

Day by day

The itinerary

Day 01

Arrival in Sri Lanka and Sigiriya Village Experience

Your unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure begins with a warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport by the Kips Holidays team. Travel comfortably through the beautiful countryside towards the Cultural Triangle, enjoying authentic local scenery along the way before reaching Sigiriya.

Today's highlights:

Personal airport meet and greet

Comfortable private transfer

Authentic Sri Lankan village experience (optional)

Traditional catamaran ride across the village lake

Bullock cart ride through rural villages

Home-cooked Sri Lankan lunch (optional)

Visit the world-famous Sigiriya Lion Rock (or Pidurangala Rock at sunset)

Relax at your hotel surrounded by nature

Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 02

Dambulla, Kandy and Cultural Heritage

Wake up to the beauty of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle before continuing your journey to the charming hill capital of Kandy. Along the way, discover ancient heritage, vibrant traditions, fragrant spice gardens, and the spiritual heart of the island. End the day with a captivating cultural dance performance before relaxing in the cool mountain air.

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site)

Explore a traditional Sri Lankan Spice and Herbal Garden

Scenic drive through lush countryside to Kandy

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic

Walk around the picturesque Kandy Lake

Browse local handicraft and souvenir shops

Experience the spectacular Kandyan Cultural Dance Show

Check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening

Overnight: Kandy

Day 03

Tea Country Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Leave the cultural heart of Kandy behind and journey into Sri Lanka's breathtaking hill country. Drive through misty mountains, endless emerald tea plantations, and spectacular waterfalls before arriving in the charming colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as 'Little England.'

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Visit a world-famous Tea Factory and Tea Plantation

Learn about Ceylon Tea production from leaf to cup

Enjoy a freshly brewed premium Ceylon tea tasting

Stop at the magnificent Ramboda Falls

Scenic mountain drive through lush tea estates

Visit Gregory Lake

Explore the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya town

Visit the iconic Red Post Office

Check in to your hotel and relax in the cool mountain climate

Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

Day 04

Scenic Train Ride to Ella and Hill Country Views

Experience Sri Lanka's world-famous scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world. Travel through rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, charming villages, and breathtaking valleys before arriving in the picturesque town of Ella. Your private Kips Holidays driver will be waiting to warmly welcome you at Ella Railway Station, ensuring a smooth and comfortable continuation of your journey.

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station

Guaranteed scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella

Second Class or Third Class unreserved train tickets are included

Guests who prefer Reserved First Class or Reserved Second Class seats may request them in advance, subject to availability and an additional charge

Meet your private Kips Holidays driver at Ella Railway Station

Visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge

Explore the beautiful Ravana Falls

Enjoy spectacular viewpoints overlooking Ella Gap

Free time to explore Ella's cafes and local shops

Check in to your hotel and relax

Overnight: Ella

Special Note

The scenic train journey is one of the highlights of this tour. Second Class or Third Class unreserved train tickets are included. Reserved First Class or Reserved Second Class seats can be arranged on request, subject to availability and an additional charge.

Day 05

Yala National Park Jeep Safari Adventure

After breakfast, leave Ella behind and journey towards Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife destination, Yala National Park. Along the way, enjoy scenic countryside views before setting off on an unforgettable jeep safari through one of Asia's finest wildlife reserves. Keep your camera ready as you search for the elusive Sri Lankan leopard, majestic elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, deer, peacocks, and many other fascinating animals in their natural habitat.

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Scenic drive from Ella to Yala

Exciting 4x4 Jeep Safari in Yala National Park

Opportunity to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and diverse wildlife

Spectacular landscapes and unforgettable wildlife photography

Relax after your safari and continue your journey to the southern coast

Check in to your hotel and enjoy a peaceful evening

Overnight: Mirissa

Special Note

Yala National Park is one of the best places in the world to see the Sri Lankan leopard in the wild. While wildlife sightings can never be guaranteed, every safari offers a unique and unforgettable experience in nature.

Day 06

Southern Coast, Madu River and Galle Fort

After breakfast, continue your unforgettable journey along Sri Lanka's beautiful southern coastline. Discover the peaceful beauty of the Madu River, meet rescued sea turtles, explore the historic streets of Galle Fort, and enjoy spectacular ocean views before returning comfortably to Colombo.

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Experience the famous Madu River Boat Safari through mangrove forests and hidden islands

Discover local wildlife and traditional cinnamon cultivation along the river

Visit a Turtle Hatchery Conservation Centre and learn about sea turtle protection

Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Galle Dutch Fort on a guided walking tour

Enjoy free time for photography, cafes, and souvenir shopping inside Galle Fort

Scenic coastal drive towards Colombo

Check in to your hotel and relax

Overnight: Colombo

Special Note

From the tranquil waterways of Madu River to the timeless charm of Galle Fort, today offers a perfect blend of nature, culture, and highway before ending your incredible Sri Lankan adventure in Colombo.

Day 07

Colombo City Tour and Departure

Your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka comes to a perfect ending today. After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed sightseeing tour of Colombo, where modern city life blends beautifully with colonial history and vibrant local culture. Capture your final memories before your comfortable private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport.

Today's highlights:

Breakfast at the hotel

Visit the beautiful Gangaramaya Temple

Explore Independence Square

Drive through the vibrant streets of Colombo

Visit Galle Face Green and enjoy stunning ocean views

Free time for shopping at One Galle Face Mall or Colombo City Centre (optional)

Private airport transfer in comfort

End of your unforgettable Sri Lanka adventure with Kips Holidays

Special Note

Thank you for choosing Kips Holidays. We hope this journey has given you unforgettable memories, breathtaking landscapes, authentic experiences, and lifelong friendships. We look forward to welcoming you back for another amazing Sri Lanka adventure.

The route

Where you'll travel

Tour route map — Round trip from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) 10 cities · 7 Days

The fine print

Trip details

What's Included

Private air-conditioned car/van with fuel
Professional, friendly, and experienced English-speaking driver
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Airport pickup and airport drop-off
7 days of private transportation across Sri Lanka
Driver's accommodation and meals
Highway tolls and parking fees
Scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella
Second Class Normal or Third Class Normal train tickets (subject to availability)
Driver will meet you at Ella Railway Station after the train journey
Flexible sightseeing based on your interests
Free bottled drinking water during the tour
Local travel assistance throughout your journey
All government taxes
24/7 customer support from Kips Holidays

What's Not Included

International and domestic flights
Visa fees and travel insurance
Lunch, dinner, and personal snacks (unless mentioned)
Personal expenses and shopping
Optional activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the itinerary
Jeep Safari entrance and National Park fees
Madu River Safari boat tickets
Turtle Hatchery entrance fee
Tea tasting packages (optional premium experiences)
Tips and gratuities for your driver are not included but are always appreciated as a gesture of satisfaction for excellent service.
First Class Reserved or Second Class Reserved train tickets
Any services not specifically mentioned under 'What's Included'

What to bring

Valid passport or photo ID
Comfortable clothing and walking shoes
Light jacket or sweater for the cool weather in Nuwara Eliya
Sunglasses, hat, and sunscreen
Camera or smartphone for capturing unforgettable moments
Personal medications (if required)
Reusable water bottle
Small backpack for daily essentials
Cash or card for optional activities, entrance fees, and personal expenses
A smile and a spirit of adventure to enjoy the beauty of Sri Lanka!

Know before you go

This is a private tour operated exclusively by Kips Holidays.
Passport or a valid photo ID is required during the tour.
Wear comfortable clothing and walking shoes.
Bring sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle.
Carry a light jacket, as Nuwara Eliya can be cool throughout the year.
Wildlife sightings during safari depend on nature and cannot be guaranteed.
The scenic train journey between Nanu Oya and Ella is included. We provide Second Class Non-Reserved or Third Class Non-Reserved train tickets. Reserved First or Second Class tickets can be arranged only if available and may require an additional charge.
Your private driver will meet you at Ella Railway Station after your train journey and continue the tour comfortably.
Please inform us in advance of any dietary requirements, medical conditions, or special requests.
Hotel accommodation is not included unless specifically mentioned in your booking.
We recommend booking early, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure the best experience.
Optional activity entrance fees are payable directly at each attraction.
As a general guide, most activities are approximately USD 20 per person.
Prices are set by the respective attraction operators and may occasionally change without prior notice. We sincerely appreciate your understanding and will always do our best to keep you informed of the latest rates.