Discover the best of Sri Lanka on this unforgettable 12-day, 11-night journey with Cey Waves, designed to showcase the island’s remarkable blend of ancient heritage, breathtaking landscapes, wildlife, vibrant culture, and tropical beaches.
From the lively streets of Colombo and the ancient wonders of the Cultural Triangle to the misty mountains and tea plantations of the central highlands, this journey takes you through some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and fascinating destinations. Experience iconic landmarks, historic cities, scenic train journeys, wildlife adventures, charming hill-country towns, and the golden beaches of the southern coast.
With a carefully planned combination of culture, nature, adventure, relaxation, and authentic local experiences, this 12-day journey allows you to discover Sri Lanka at a comfortable pace while experiencing the highlights that make the island so special.
From ancient kingdoms to tropical coastlines, every day brings a new experience. Travel with Cey Waves and discover Sri Lanka through unforgettable places, memorable experiences, and the warm hospitality of its people.
Discover Sri Lanka with Cey Waves – 12 days, countless experiences, unforgettable memories.
Colombo City Tour
Begin your Sri Lankan journey with a Colombo City Tour, exploring the vibrant commercial capital where history, culture, religion, and modern city life come together. Colombo is a fascinating blend of colonial heritage, colourful streets, historic landmarks, and contemporary developments.
Visit some of the city’s cultural highlights, including the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, the peaceful Seema Malaka Temple, and Independence Square, an important landmark surrounded by beautifully landscaped grounds. Continue through Colombo’s lively streets and markets to experience the diverse atmosphere of the city.
The tour also offers an opportunity to see Galle Face Green, a popular seaside promenade overlooking the Indian Ocean, along with historic colonial architecture and important landmarks that reflect Colombo’s fascinating past. Depending on your interests and available time, you may also explore modern shopping areas and experience the city’s vibrant local atmosphere.
Colombo provides a wonderful introduction to Sri Lanka, offering a glimpse into the country’s cultural diversity, religious traditions, colonial history, and modern lifestyle.
Overnight stay in Colombo.
Anuradhapura – Ancient City
Discover Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most ancient and historically significant cities and the island’s first capital. Once the centre of a flourishing kingdom and an important centre of early Buddhist civilisation, Anuradhapura offers a fascinating journey into Sri Lanka’s rich history and spiritual heritage.
The ancient city is renowned for its impressive archaeological remains, including enormous stupas, ancient monasteries, royal structures, irrigation works, and sacred sites. Among its most revered landmarks is the Sri Maha Bodhi, a sacred fig tree grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.
Sacred City of Anuradhapura
Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Sacred City of Anuradhapura remains one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage destinations. Explore its ancient monuments and sacred surroundings while discovering the remarkable achievements of the civilisation that flourished here for centuries.
The peaceful atmosphere, magnificent stupas, historic ruins, and living Buddhist traditions make Anuradhapura a memorable destination for those interested in Sri Lanka’s history, culture, architecture, and spiritual heritage.
Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Discover Sigiriya, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic historical landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rising dramatically above the surrounding plains, this ancient rock fortress is renowned for its remarkable history, impressive engineering, and breathtaking views across the central plains.
Explore the ancient gardens, pathways, and archaeological remains surrounding the rock while learning about the fascinating history of the former royal complex. The rock is also famous for its ancient frescoes and the remarkable remains found near the summit, offering a glimpse into the artistic and architectural achievements of ancient Sri Lanka.
Sigiriya Lion’s Paws
At the entrance to the upper fortress, discover the impressive Lion’s Paws, the surviving remains of the enormous lion structure that once formed the gateway to Sigiriya. In ancient times, visitors would have climbed the staircase through the lion’s mouth to reach the royal complex at the summit.
Although the upper portion of the original lion has disappeared over time, the massive stone paws remain remarkably well preserved. They stand as one of the most recognizable features of Sigiriya and provide a fascinating insight into the architectural vision and craftsmanship of the ancient kingdom.
Sigiriya Village Tour
Experience a different side of Sri Lanka with a Sigiriya Village Tour, offering an authentic glimpse into traditional rural life. Travel through the peaceful countryside surrounding Sigiriya and discover the daily activities, customs, and agricultural traditions of local communities.
The experience may include a traditional bullock cart ride, a visit to a village home, and an introduction to authentic Sri Lankan cooking and traditional farming practices. Enjoy the opportunity to interact with local villagers and experience their warm hospitality while surrounded by lush greenery and peaceful rural landscapes.
This cultural experience provides a wonderful contrast to the ancient monuments of Sigiriya and allows you to connect with the everyday traditions and simple way of life that remain an important part of Sri Lanka’s heritage.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Pidurangala Rock – Morning
Start your day with an early morning visit to Pidurangala Rock, located just a short distance from Sigiriya. The hike offers a rewarding experience through natural surroundings before reaching the viewpoint, where you can enjoy spectacular panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.
Arriving around sunrise allows you to experience the landscape as the first light gently illuminates the forests, villages, and distant mountains, with the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress standing prominently in the distance. The peaceful atmosphere and breathtaking views make Pidurangala an unforgettable way to begin the day.
Minneriya National Park
Continue your journey with an exciting Minneriya National Park safari, one of Sri Lanka’s most popular wildlife experiences. The park is particularly famous for its large population of Asian elephants and the spectacular seasonal gathering of elephants around the Minneriya Tank.
During your safari, explore the park’s diverse landscapes of forests, grasslands, wetlands, and open areas while looking for elephants, deer, crocodiles, monkeys, and a variety of bird species. With its beautiful scenery and abundant wildlife, Minneriya offers an excellent opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s natural environment and observe animals in their natural habitat.
The park is especially renowned for “The Gathering,” a remarkable seasonal wildlife phenomenon when large numbers of elephants gather around the reservoir in search of water and food.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Dambulla Royal Cave Temple
Begin your journey towards Kandy with a visit to the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist heritage sites. Dating back more than two thousand years, the temple complex is built into a massive rocky outcrop and consists of several sacred caves filled with ancient Buddhist art.
Inside the caves, discover numerous Buddha statues, intricate murals, and colourful paintings depicting important stories and events connected with Buddhist history. The peaceful atmosphere and remarkable preservation of the cave interiors make Dambulla a fascinating place to experience Sri Lanka’s religious and artistic heritage.
Dambulla Golden Temple
At the base of the rock, visit the impressive Dambulla Golden Temple, which forms part of the historic Dambulla cave temple complex. The site has played an important role in Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions for centuries and remains a significant place of worship.
Take time to appreciate the ancient statues, detailed artwork, and peaceful surroundings while learning more about the religious traditions and craftsmanship that have shaped Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.
Kandy
Continue your journey to Kandy, the historic last royal capital of Sri Lanka, surrounded by lush green hills and scenic landscapes. Rich in history and tradition, Kandy is one of the island’s most important cultural destinations.
The city is home to the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and attracts pilgrims from around the world. Enjoy the scenic beauty of Kandy Lake and explore the city’s historic surroundings while experiencing the distinctive traditions of the former Kandyan Kingdom.
Kandy’s combination of cultural heritage, religious significance, natural beauty, and traditional arts makes it an essential destination for travellers exploring the heart of Sri Lanka.
Kandyan Cultural Show
In the evening, experience a vibrant Kandyan Cultural Show, showcasing some of Sri Lanka’s traditional performing arts. Enjoy colourful costumes, energetic Kandyan dances, rhythmic drumming, and performances inspired by the cultural traditions of the Kandyan Kingdom.
The show provides an entertaining and memorable introduction to Sri Lanka’s traditional arts and cultural heritage, bringing together music, movement, and centuries-old traditions in a lively performance.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Begin the day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist sites and a major pilgrimage destination. Located in the heart of Kandy, the temple is believed to house the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and holds deep religious and cultural significance.
Explore the temple’s historic architecture, peaceful surroundings, and religious artefacts while observing traditional rituals and offerings. The experience provides a meaningful insight into the spiritual traditions and cultural heritage that have shaped Kandy for centuries.
Ceylon Spice Garden
Continue your journey with a visit to a Ceylon Spice Garden, where you can discover Sri Lanka’s rich history and tradition of spice cultivation. Explore the fragrant gardens and learn about spices such as cinnamon, cardamom, cloves, pepper, and nutmeg, as well as their traditional uses.
The experience offers an opportunity to discover how these valuable spices are cultivated and used in Sri Lankan cuisine and traditional practices. The aromas and lush surroundings make this a fascinating and enjoyable stop along the journey.
Ceylon Gem Museum
Next, visit a Ceylon Gem Museum and discover Sri Lanka’s long-established reputation for producing some of the world’s finest gemstones. The island is particularly famous for its exceptional sapphires, along with rubies and a variety of other precious and semi-precious stones.
Learn about traditional gem mining, cutting, and polishing while viewing collections of both rough and finished stones. The visit provides an interesting insight into Sri Lanka’s gem industry and the craftsmanship behind these remarkable natural treasures.
Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
Continue to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, located just outside Kandy. Covering more than 147 acres, these beautifully landscaped gardens are home to an impressive collection of tropical plants, orchids, palms, flowering trees, and other botanical species.
Take a leisurely walk through the gardens and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, carefully designed avenues, and diverse plant collections. It is a refreshing opportunity to connect with nature before continuing into Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country.
Ramboda Tea Factory
As you travel towards Nuwara Eliya, visit a Ramboda Tea Factory, surrounded by lush tea plantations and the beautiful landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Discover the fascinating process behind the production of world-famous Ceylon Tea, from the harvesting of fresh tea leaves to their processing and sorting.
Learn more about Sri Lanka’s long-standing tea industry while enjoying the refreshing mountain air and beautiful views across the surrounding plantations. The experience offers a wonderful connection between Sri Lanka’s natural landscapes and its renowned tea heritage.
Ramboda Falls
Continue through the scenic hill country to Ramboda Falls, one of the most impressive waterfalls in the central highlands. Surrounded by lush greenery, tea plantations, and misty mountain scenery, the waterfall creates a spectacular natural setting.
Stop at the surrounding viewpoints to admire the cascading waters and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere. Ramboda Falls is a memorable highlight of the journey and offers excellent opportunities to appreciate the natural beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Lake Gregory – Nuwara Eliya
Continue to Nuwara Eliya, a charming mountain destination known for its cool climate, tea plantations, colonial character, and beautiful landscapes. Visit Lake Gregory, a scenic reservoir surrounded by green hills and peaceful natural surroundings.
Enjoy a relaxing walk around the lakeside or simply take in the cool mountain atmosphere and beautiful scenery. Lake Gregory provides a tranquil introduction to Nuwara Eliya and is a popular place to unwind after travelling through the hill country.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Scenic Train Ride – Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Begin the day with one of Sri Lanka’s most memorable travel experiences — a scenic train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella. The train winds through the beautiful central highlands, passing endless tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, lush forests, waterfalls, and charming rural villages.
Enjoy the ever-changing scenery as the train travels through the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. The relaxed journey provides wonderful opportunities to take photographs and experience the natural beauty of the hill country from a unique perspective.
The scenic train ride is one of the highlights of travelling through Sri Lanka, offering an unforgettable combination of breathtaking landscapes, local life, and the charm of the island’s historic railway network.
Nine Arch Bridge
Upon arrival in Ella, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, one of the most photographed landmarks in Sri Lanka’s hill country. Built during the British colonial period, this impressive railway bridge features nine elegant stone arches surrounded by lush forests and tea-covered hills.
Take a walk around the bridge and enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings. If a train passes across the bridge, you can witness the spectacular combination of the historic railway structure and the surrounding tropical landscape.
Little Adam’s Peak
Continue to Little Adam’s Peak, one of Ella’s most popular and accessible hiking destinations. The trail passes through scenic tea plantations before reaching viewpoints overlooking the dramatic Ella Gap and surrounding mountains.
The relatively gentle hike makes it an enjoyable experience for travellers who want to explore the natural beauty of Ella without a demanding trek. At the summit, take in the panoramic views, cool mountain air, and peaceful atmosphere. The location is particularly beautiful around sunrise or sunset.
Overnight stay in Ella.
Ravana Falls
Continue your journey through the scenic hill country with a visit to Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous and picturesque waterfalls. Located near Ella, the waterfall cascades down the rocky hillside surrounded by lush greenery, creating a beautiful natural setting.
Ravana Falls is named after the legendary King Ravana from the Ramayana, adding a fascinating layer of history and mythology to the destination. For those looking for a little adventure, the nearby zipline experience offers an exciting way to enjoy the surrounding mountain scenery from above.
Yala National Park
Continue towards Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife destinations. The park is home to an impressive variety of animals, including Sri Lankan leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and numerous species of birds. Its diverse landscapes of forests, grasslands, lagoons, and coastal areas provide an ideal setting for a memorable wildlife experience.
Enjoy a safari through the park as you explore Sri Lanka’s natural wilderness and have the opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat. The combination of rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and peaceful water bodies makes Yala a highlight for nature and wildlife enthusiasts.
Overnight stay in Yala.
Galle Fort
Explore Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable historic landmarks. Located along the southern coast overlooking the Indian Ocean, the fort reflects centuries of colonial history, with its foundations established by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded and fortified by the Dutch.
Wander through its charming cobblestone streets and discover beautifully preserved colonial buildings, historic churches, old administrative buildings, boutique hotels, cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and local shops. The fort’s impressive ramparts also provide beautiful views across the Indian Ocean, particularly as the sun begins to set.
Galle Fort offers a wonderful combination of history, architecture, culture, and coastal scenery, making it a memorable place to explore and experience the unique character of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Overnight stay in Unawatuna.
Secret Beach
Discover Secret Beach, a peaceful coastal hideaway away from the busier tourist spots. Surrounded by tropical greenery and swaying coconut palms, this secluded stretch of coastline offers a relaxing setting to enjoy Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.
Take some time to unwind by the sea, enjoy the soft sands, or simply appreciate the tranquil surroundings. With its calm atmosphere and picturesque coastal scenery, Secret Beach is a wonderful stop for travellers looking to experience a quieter side of Sri Lanka.
Coconut Tree Hill
Continue to Coconut Tree Hill, one of the most recognisable coastal viewpoints in southern Sri Lanka. Perched above the Indian Ocean, this scenic location is famous for its distinctive rows of tall coconut palms and sweeping views across the coastline.
The viewpoint is especially beautiful during the early morning or around sunset, when the changing light creates a spectacular setting overlooking the ocean. Take a leisurely walk, enjoy the panoramic views, and capture memorable photographs of one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque coastal landscapes.
Overnight stay in Bentota.
Madu River Safari & Fish Spa
Enjoy a relaxing Madu River Safari, a wonderful way to explore Sri Lanka’s coastal wetlands and mangrove ecosystems. Cruise along the calm waters of the Madu River as you pass through narrow waterways surrounded by lush mangrove forests, small islands, and rich birdlife. The peaceful journey offers an opportunity to appreciate the natural beauty and biodiversity of the southern coast.
During the experience, you can also enjoy a unique fish spa, where small fish gently interact with your feet in the water. It is a fun and relaxing experience that adds something different to your river adventure.
Turtle Conservation Centre
Visit a Turtle Conservation Centre and learn about the important work being carried out to protect Sri Lanka’s sea turtles and their natural habitats. These centres provide an opportunity to learn about different turtle species, their life cycles, nesting habits, and the challenges they face in the wild.
Explore the conservation facilities and discover how local organisations contribute to sea turtle protection and awareness. The visit offers an educational and meaningful experience while highlighting the importance of preserving Sri Lanka’s marine environment for future generations.
Overnight stay in Bentota.
Departure from Sri Lanka
According to your flight departure time, enjoy a comfortable transfer directly to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your journey home. Take this final opportunity to relax and reflect on the unforgettable experiences, beautiful landscapes, rich culture, and warm hospitality you have enjoyed throughout your Sri Lankan adventure.
Farewell from Cey Waves
Thank you for choosing Cey Waves to be part of your journey through Sri Lanka. We hope you return home with wonderful memories and experiences to cherish for years to come.
It has been our pleasure to welcome you to Sri Lanka, and we look forward to seeing you again for another unforgettable journey in the future.
At Cey Waves, we understand that the right accommodation is an essential part of a memorable Sri Lankan holiday. That’s why we carefully select hotels and stays that offer comfort, quality, and convenience to suit every type of traveller. From elegant boutique retreats and luxurious 5-star properties to comfortable 3-star hotels and budget-friendly stays, we help you find the perfect place to relax and enjoy your journey through Sri Lanka.
Experience Sri Lanka with character and charm. Our carefully selected boutique hotels offer unique settings, stylish interiors, personalized service, and an intimate atmosphere. Perfect for travellers looking for something beyond the ordinary, these distinctive properties combine comfort with authentic Sri Lankan hospitality for a truly memorable stay.
Experience Sri Lanka in exceptional luxury. Our selection of 5-star hotels offers elegant accommodation, world-class facilities, fine dining, attentive service, and stunning surroundings. Whether overlooking the ocean, nestled among tropical landscapes, or located in the heart of the city, these properties are ideal for travellers seeking an unforgettable luxury experience.
Comfort, quality, and great value come together. Our 4-star hotel options offer stylish accommodation, modern facilities, excellent dining, and attentive service. They are a perfect choice for travellers who want a higher level of comfort and convenience while maintaining excellent value throughout their Sri Lankan holiday.
Comfortable stays for exploring more of Sri Lanka. Our 3-star hotels provide clean and comfortable rooms, essential facilities, welcoming service, and convenient locations. They are ideal for travellers who want a relaxing place to stay while spending more time discovering Sri Lanka’s beaches, culture, wildlife, heritage, and landscapes.
Simple, comfortable, and great value. Our budget accommodation options are carefully selected for travellers who want to enjoy Sri Lanka without spending too much on accommodation. With essential comforts, convenient locations, and friendly hospitality, these stays offer a practical and enjoyable base for your Sri Lankan adventure.
Once your itinerary and hotel selection have been finalized, we kindly request the following details from all travellers:
Passport details of all travellers, including full name, passport number, and country of issue
Arrival and departure flight details
WhatsApp contact number so our team can easily reach you during the booking process and your journey
Once we receive the above information, we will prepare your booking and send you a secure payment link for the 10% advance payment of your total package value.
The advance payment can be conveniently settled online using a credit or debit card.
Once the advance payment has been successfully received, Cey Waves will issue your official Booking Confirmation Voucher, confirming your travel arrangements with us.
We look forward to welcoming you to Sri Lanka and making your journey with Cey Waves a memorable one.
Our cancellation charges are calculated based on the number of days remaining before the scheduled arrival date:
29 days or more prior to arrival – No cancellation charges.
22–28 days prior to arrival – 25% of the booked amount will be charged.
15–21 days prior to arrival – 50% of the booked amount will be charged.
08–14 days prior to arrival – 75% of the booked amount will be charged.
07 days or less prior to arrival – 100% of the booked amount will be charged.
No-show – 100% of the booked amount will be charged.
Cancellation charges are calculated based on the total booked arrangements and are subject to the terms and conditions of the respective hotels, service providers, and suppliers.
