Sri Lanka 3-Day – Sigiriya, Udawalawe, Kandy, Bentota, Ella

Experience the Best of Sri Lanka in 3 Days: Sigiriya, Udawalawe, Kandy, Bentota, and Ella

This 3-day Sri Lanka tour offers a well-rounded taste of the island’s diverse attractions. For $399 per person, you’ll explore iconic sites like the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Udawalawe Safari, and the Tooth Relic Temple in Kandy, plus enjoy scenic moments like a hill country train ride through lush tea plantations and a river safari in Bentota. It’s an action-packed itinerary that promises plenty of memorable highlights in a short amount of time.

What we really appreciate are the balanced mix of cultural sights and natural encounters—especially the chance to see wildlife in Udawalawe and walk through historic Galle Fort. The inclusion of a guided tour means you’ll gain insights that make each stop more meaningful. The private group setting also ensures a more personalized experience.

A potential consideration is the packed schedule, which might feel a bit rushed for some travelers. If you prefer slow-paced sightseeing or more time at each site, you might want to consider extending your stay or choosing a different tour. But for those who want a comprehensive snapshot of Sri Lanka in a short span, this tour hits the mark.

This experience suits travelers with a sense of adventure, an interest in history and wildlife, and those who don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s ideal if you want to cover a lot of ground without sacrificing depth at each location.

Key Points

• Diverse highlights: UNESCO sites, wildlife safaris, scenic train rides, and cultural temples.
• Authentic experiences: River safaris and guided tours enhance understanding of local environment and history.
• Value for money: At $399, it includes accommodations, most transfers, and guided commentary.
• Flexible booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind.
• Efficient itinerary: Good balance of activities, though some may find it a bit full.
• Ideal for: Travelers who want a quick, well-rounded introduction to Sri Lanka’s highlights.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring Sri Lanka in 3 Days: A Deep Dive

Day 1: From Colombo to Ella with a Splash of Galle, Bentota, and Udawalawe

The journey begins early, with a pick-up from your hotel in Colombo and a drive towards the island’s south and central regions. The first notable stop is Bentota, where you’ll hop on a river safari. Picture yourself gliding slowly through mangrove-lined waterways, spotting fish, birds, and possibly some shy crocodiles—a gentle introduction to Sri Lanka’s thriving riverine ecosystems.

Next, a visit to Galle Fort offers a fascinating step back in time. Your guide will lead a walking tour through this UNESCO World Heritage site, where Dutch colonial architecture and ocean views create an atmospheric setting. The Mask Museum nearby gives insight into traditional Sri Lankan art, an authentic touch that most travelers appreciate.

The afternoon takes you to the Udawalawe National Park for a safari, arguably the highlight for wildlife lovers. You can expect to see elephants, water buffalo, and various bird species in their natural habitat. Travelers often mention the impressive presence of elephants and the opportunity to observe them up close. As one review notes, “We loved the way the guide knew exactly where to spot the animals, making the safari both exciting and educational.”

Finally, the day concludes with a drive to Ella, a hill town known for its cool climate and lush scenery. The transition from sea to hill country is striking and sets the tone for the next day. The overnight stay in Ella provides a comfortable base for further exploration.

Day 2: From Ella through Tea Country to Kandy

A highlight of this tour is the hill country train ride from Ella Railway Station. Expect stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and mountains as the train chugs along. We loved the slow pace that allows you to soak in the scenery, and you might find the experience both relaxing and photo-worthy.

After the train, you’ll continue to Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” with a stop at a tea plantation and factory. Here, you gain insight into tea production, from leaf plucking to processing, and can enjoy a tasting session—an authentic taste of Sri Lanka’s most famous export.

The journey then proceeds to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural heart. The Temple of the Tooth Relic is the main attraction, a sacred Buddhist site housing a relic of the Buddha. Our review highlights how the guides explain the temple’s significance, making the visit more than just a photo opportunity.

Day 3: From Kandy to Sigiriya with Cultural and Historical Stops

The final day starts early, heading toward the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress. You’ll climb the 5th-century citadel, marveling at the ancient frescoes and the impressive terraced gardens. The climb can be strenuous, but most find the views from the top well worth the effort. The fortress is a UNESCO site, and it offers a window into medieval Sri Lankan ingenuity.

En route, you stop at Dambulla Golden Temple, a sprawling complex of cave temples filled with Buddha statues and murals. It’s a spiritual and artistic highlight, with a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts the climbing adventure.

The day wraps up with a visit to spice and herbal gardens, where you learn about traditional medicine and local agriculture. The entire trip concludes with a drive back to Colombo, completing your whirlwind tour.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Practicalities and Value

The tour’s price of $399 per person includes hotel accommodations with breakfast, all ground transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, and a local guide. The tours are designed for private groups, which means more personalized attention and flexibility. The guided walking tours and safaris add depth to your experience, offering insights you might miss on your own.

One detail to keep in mind is that entrance fees are not included, so you’ll need to budget extra for sites like Sigiriya, Udawalawe, and Dambulla. However, given the comprehensive itinerary, the cost seems reasonable considering the number of sites visited and the quality of experiences.

The train ride is a highlight but can be crowded during peak times, so if you prefer more space, consider early or off-peak hours. The speed of the schedule might be a concern for travelers wanting more leisurely time at each site, but if you’re after a taste of everything, it’s a solid choice.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour appeals to adventurous travelers eager to see a broad cross-section of Sri Lanka’s attractions in a short span. If you’re curious about wildlife, sacred sites, scenic landscapes, and colonial history, you’ll find plenty to love here. It’s especially suitable for those who don’t mind a busy schedule and appreciate guided insights.

While it offers a lot, it’s not designed for travelers seeking long, unhurried visits or those with mobility concerns—the climbs at Sigiriya, in particular, can be challenging. But for the majority, it’s an efficient, engaging way to experience the island’s highlights without the hassle of planning each detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
The $399 fee covers hotel accommodations with breakfast, ground transportation in an air-conditioned car, and a local English-speaking guide. It does not include entrance fees to sites.

Are there any optional activities?
The tour includes visits to key sites and a train ride, but additional activities like entrance fees or extra excursions are not included and will need separate payment.

Is the tour suitable for families?
While the itinerary is packed with sightseeing, the climbs, especially at Sigiriya, may be strenuous for young children or those with mobility issues. It’s best suited for active travelers.

How strenuous is the Sigiriya climb?
Climbing Sigiriya involves steep stairs and a moderate level of fitness, but most people find the ascent manageable. The views from the top are rewarding.

What should I bring?
Comfortable walking shoes, sun protection, water, and perhaps a hat. The weather can vary from hot days to cooler hill country, so layers are helpful.

How flexible is the schedule?
The tour follows a set itinerary, but guides are often willing to adapt slightly based on your interests or pace, especially since it’s a private group.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your plans change.

This 3-day Sri Lanka tour strikes a great balance between culture and natural beauty, all packed into a manageable schedule. Whether you’re after iconic sights, wildlife encounters, or scenic train rides, it offers a practical and memorable way to see some of the island’s best. Just brace for a busy few days, and you’ll likely come away with a well-rounded impression of Sri Lanka’s diverse charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: