Sustainable & Culture Tour

Day 01

Negombo -Day at Leisure

Negombo, a charming coastal city in Sri Lanka, is a popular tourist destination known for its rich cultural heritage and stunning beaches. Located just a short drive from the Bandaranaike International Airport, Negombo offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. The city’s golden sandy beaches are ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and enjoying water sports, making it a favorite spot for both locals and international visitors.

Negombo’s bustling fish market, one of the country’s largest, provides a glimpse into the local way of life, where fresh catches are auctioned off daily. The city is also home to several historical sites, including the Dutch Fort and St. Mary’s Church, which reflect its colonial past. The serene Muthurajawela Marsh offers boat tours through lush mangroves, where visitors can spot a variety of wildlife. With its mix of natural beauty, cultural attractions, and vibrant local life, Negombo is a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

Negombo Highlights

Day 02

Minneriya National Park

Minneriya National Park, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a stunning natural reserve that epitomizes the country’s rich ecological heritage. Spanning approximately 88.9 square kilometers, the park was declared a wildlife sanctuary in 1938 and later elevated to national park status in 1997. The park’s centerpiece is the ancient Minneriya Tank, a reservoir constructed by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD, which plays a crucial role in sustaining the park’s diverse ecosystems.

One of Minneriya’s most famous attractions is “The Gathering,” an annual event recognized as one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world. During the dry season, from July to September, hundreds of Asian elephants migrate to the park, drawn by the receding waters of the Minneriya Tank, which expose fresh grasslands. This gathering of elephants, sometimes numbering over 300, is one of the largest in Asia and offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural habitat. The sight of so many elephants, including playful calves, against the backdrop of the ancient tank, is truly mesmerizing.

Beyond elephants, Minneriya National Park is a haven for a wide variety of wildlife. The park is home to sambar deer, leopards, sloth bears, and a rich diversity of bird species, including endemics like the Sri Lanka grey hornbill. The park’s diverse habitats, ranging from dry tropical forests and grasslands to wetlands, support this incredible range of fauna. The flora of the park is equally diverse, with evergreen shrubs and ancient trees dotting the landscape.

Minneriya National Park - Highlights

Day 03

Visit Making Pottery / Plant a Tree with a Village Local Family and you can Carry Some Food to the Family

Afternoon Dambulla Cave Temple

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured historical and religious sites. Situated in the central Matale District, this UNESCO World Heritage site dates back over 2,000 years and is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The temple is perched atop a 160-meter high rock, offering stunning views of the surrounding plains.

The complex consists of five main caves, each adorned with intricate murals and over 150 statues. The statues predominantly depict the Buddha in various poses, along with images of gods, goddesses, and historical figures, including Sri Lankan kings. The murals, which cover an area of about 2,100 square meters, vividly narrate the life of the Buddha and important events in the history of Buddhism.

The most significant of the caves is the Maharaja Viharaya, which houses a 14-meter-long reclining Buddha statue. The temple’s interior is a masterpiece of religious art, with every surface covered in vibrant, centuries-old paintings that have been remarkably well preserved.

The Dambulla Cave Temple remains an active place of worship and pilgrimage, attracting both devotees and tourists alike, making it a symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural and religious heritage.

Dambulla Highlights

Day 04

Sunrise at Sigiriya Rock

An essential destination of every Sri Lanka trips, the amazing ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya might strike one as a peculiar sight. Its round structure and its intricate ancient urban landscape surely astound the best of us! Declared as a world heritage by UNESCO, this massive column of rock once used to be the capital of an ancient Sri Lankan kingdom. As you step into Sigiriya rock, you are bound to be amazed by the infamous Sigiriya frescoes depicting the beautiful Lankan women of the fifth century. The Mirror Wall, providing an outlook of ancient poetry, gives you a glimpse into the lives of early visitors of the site. Moreover, you will be overwhelmed by the beauty of the Gardens of Sigiriya as you wonder about the intellect and ingenuity of the ancient minds at work. Topping the list of tourist destinations in our Sri Lanka tour packages, Sigiriya fortress is a captivating masterpiece of ancient urban landscape and architecture.

Sigiriya Highlights

Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Polonnaruwa, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site that serves as a testament to the island’s rich history and cultural heritage. Once the thriving capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom from the 11th to 13th centuries, Polonnaruwa is renowned for its well-preserved ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the past.

The city is home to remarkable archaeological sites, including the Royal Palace, the Audience Hall, and the Quadrangle, a sacred area featuring the Vatadage, a circular relic house. Polonnaruwa is also famous for the Gal Vihara, a rock temple complex with four magnificent Buddha statues carved into a single granite slab, showcasing the artistic excellence of ancient Sri Lankan sculptors.

The city’s layout reflects sophisticated urban planning, with intricate irrigation systems like the Parakrama Samudra, a vast artificial reservoir, highlighting the advanced engineering skills of the time. Visitors to Polonnaruwa can explore these historical treasures, which are spread across a sprawling archaeological park, offering an immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s medieval history and its enduring legacy. Polonnaruwa stands as a symbol of the island’s golden age and remains a key destination for cultural and historical tourism in Sri Lanka.

Polonnaruwa Highlights

Day 05

Meet a Family of Vaddas (Aboriginal) & Day at Leisure

The Veddas, also known as the Wanniyala-Aetto or “forest dwellers,” are an indigenous people of Sri Lanka, believed to be descendants of the island’s earliest inhabitants. Their history spans thousands of years, predating the arrival of the Sinhalese and Tamil ethnic groups. Traditionally, the Veddas were hunter-gatherers, relying on the island’s forests for sustenance through hunting, fishing, and foraging. Their society was organized into small, close-knit communities, with a deep spiritual connection to nature.

The Veddas speak a dialect that is distinct from the main languages of Sri Lanka, though it has been influenced by Sinhala over the centuries. Despite their rich cultural heritage, the Veddas have faced significant challenges in recent times. Encroachment of their ancestral lands, deforestation, and government resettlement programs have threatened their traditional way of life. Many Veddas have been forced to adapt to a more sedentary lifestyle, often integrating into mainstream society.

Efforts are being made to preserve Vedda culture and language, but the pressures of modernization pose ongoing challenges. The Veddas remain a symbol of Sri Lanka’s ancient heritage, representing a unique and invaluable part of the island’s cultural mosaic.

Hikkaduwa Highlights

Day 06

Boat Safari Gal Oya National Park

A boat safari in Gal Oya National Park offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore one of Sri Lanka’s most pristine and less-visited natural habitats. Located in the eastern part of the island, Gal Oya is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, which include dense forests, grasslands, and the vast Senanayake Samudraya, Sri Lanka’s largest reservoir.

The boat safari takes you across this expansive body of water, providing a rare opportunity to see wildlife from a different perspective. Elephants are often seen swimming between the islands of the reservoir, an extraordinary sight that has earned Gal Oya the nickname “the land of the swimming elephants.” In addition to elephants, the park is home to a variety of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bears, deer, and a rich array of bird species, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

The safari is typically led by experienced guides who are knowledgeable about the park’s flora and fauna, enhancing the experience with insights into the region’s biodiversity. The tranquil setting, combined with the thrill of spotting wildlife in their natural habitat, makes a boat safari in Gal Oya National Park an unforgettable adventure for nature lovers.

Boat Safari Galoya National Park

Day 07

Nine Arch Bridge - Ella

The Nine Arch Bridge, located in the small town of Ella in Sri Lanka, is a stunning architectural marvel that blends history and natural beauty. Completed in 1921, this iconic railway bridge is often referred to as the “Bridge in the Sky” due to its impressive height of 24 meters and its picturesque setting amidst lush green tea plantations and dense jungle.

Constructed entirely of solid blocks of stone and cement, the bridge spans 91 meters across a deep valley, featuring nine elegant arches that give it its name. The design is a testament to the ingenuity of its builders, who relied on local resources and traditional methods, as steel was in short supply during World War I.

The Nine Arch Bridge is not just a functional piece of infrastructure but also a popular tourist attraction. Visitors flock to Ella to witness the serene beauty of this bridge, especially at dawn when the mist envelops the valley, or during the passage of a train, which adds a magical touch to the experience. The bridge has become a symbol of Sri Lanka’s colonial past and continues to captivate those who visit with its timeless charm.

Nine Arch Bridge Highlights

Day 08

Little Adam's Peak

Little Adam’s Peak, located in the scenic town of Ella in Sri Lanka, is a popular hiking destination that offers breathtaking views and a relatively easy trek for adventurers of all levels. Named after the sacred Adam’s Peak, due to its similar shape, Little Adam’s Peak stands at 1,141 meters above sea level. The hike to the summit is about 2 kilometers and takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes, making it accessible for families and casual hikers.

The trail begins amidst lush tea plantations, winding through verdant landscapes dotted with colorful flowers and the occasional tea picker at work. As you ascend, the path offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding hills, valleys, and the distant Ella Rock. The final stretch involves a short climb up a series of steps leading to the summit, where hikers are rewarded with a 360-degree view of the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside.

Sunrise and sunset are particularly popular times to visit, as the golden light enhances the beauty of the landscape. Little Adam’s Peak is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Ella, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural charm, and outdoor adventure.

Little Adam's Peak Highlights

Tea Factory

Sri Lanka’s tea factories are central to its globally celebrated tea industry, producing the famous Ceylon tea. Located in regions like Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, and Ella, these factories are often surrounded by picturesque tea plantations. They play a crucial role in transforming freshly plucked tea leaves into the finished product enjoyed worldwide.

The process begins with the hand-picking of the finest tea leaves by skilled workers. These leaves are then taken to the factory, where they undergo a series of traditional yet precise steps: withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, and sorting. Each stage contributes to the distinct flavor and quality of the tea, whether it be green, black, or white.

Many of these factories have been operational since the British colonial era, blending historical methods with modern technology. Visiting a Sri Lankan tea factory offers a unique insight into the craftsmanship behind every cup of tea, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Tea Factory Highlights

Day 09

Train Ride from Ella to Kandy

The train ride from Kandy to Ella is an iconic journey that takes travelers through the breathtaking landscapes of Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Spanning approximately seven hours and covering about 90 miles, this journey is often hailed as one of the most scenic train rides in the world.

Departing from Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, the train begins its gradual ascent into the verdant hill country. The early part of the journey is characterized by rolling hills and valleys blanketed in lush tea plantations, with workers dotting the landscape as they skillfully pluck tea leaves. As the train chugs along, it passes through dense forests, picturesque villages, and expansive vistas of terraced rice paddies. The vibrant greenery and the crisp mountain air create a refreshing and serene atmosphere.

As the train climbs higher, the landscape becomes more rugged and dramatic. The journey takes you through numerous tunnels, across towering viaducts, and along steep mountainsides, offering panoramic views of mist-covered peaks and deep valleys. The most famous of these landmarks is the Nine Arch Bridge near Ella, a stunning example of colonial-era engineering set against a backdrop of dense jungle. Here, the train slows down, giving passengers the chance to capture the moment with photos or simply take in the awe-inspiring scenery.

The open windows and doors of the train allow travelers to fully immerse themselves in the experience, feeling the cool breeze and taking in the sounds and smells of the countryside. The journey from Kandy to Ella is more than just a mode of transportation—it’s a memorable adventure through some of Sri Lanka’s most stunning landscapes.

Train Ride Kandy to Ella Highlights

Day 10

Cookery Demonstration

Temple of the Tooth

Kandy, a city nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its cultural, historical, and natural significance. As the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a special place in the country’s heritage. The city is most famous for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses a tooth relic of the Buddha, making it one of the most sacred sites in the Buddhist world. Each year, the Esala Perahera, a grand procession, is held in honor of the relic, attracting thousands of pilgrims and tourists.

Surrounded by lush mountains and tea plantations, Kandy offers breathtaking scenery. The city is centered around the tranquil Kandy Lake, a man-made lake that adds to its charm. The Royal Botanical Gardens in nearby Peradeniya are another highlight, showcasing a vast array of flora.

Kandy’s cultural richness is also reflected in its traditional music, dance, and crafts. The city’s vibrant markets and streets are alive with activity, offering a glimpse into the daily lives of its residents. Despite modernization, Kandy retains its old-world charm, making it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Sri Lanka.

Kandy Highlights

Day 11

Galle City Tour

Galle, a coastal city in southwestern Sri Lanka, is a captivating blend of history, culture, and scenic beauty. The city’s most iconic landmark is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch. This well-preserved fort is a living museum, with narrow cobblestone streets, colonial-era buildings, and vibrant cafes, boutiques, and art galleries that reflect the city’s rich multicultural heritage.

Wandering through the fort, visitors can explore historical sites like the Dutch Reformed Church, the Old Dutch Hospital, and the Galle Lighthouse, which offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The fort’s ramparts are perfect for a leisurely walk, especially at sunset, providing stunning views of the ocean and the town.

Galle’s beautiful beaches, such as Unawatuna and Jungle Beach, are just a short drive from the fort, offering soft golden sands and clear waters ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. The city is also known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous festivals, exhibitions, and performances throughout the year.

Galle’s unique blend of colonial history, natural beauty, and cultural vibrancy makes it one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting destinations.

Galle Highlights

Day 12

Hikkaduwa - Visit a Local School. You can Carry Some Books, Pens, Pencils, Erasers and Sweets for the Children.

Day 13

Hikkaduwa - Beach day at Leisure

Hikkaduwa Beach, located on the southwestern coast of Sri Lanka, is a popular destination known for its vibrant atmosphere, stunning scenery, and diverse activities. The golden sands and turquoise waters of Hikkaduwa stretch along a lively coastal town, making it a favorite spot for both locals and tourists.

The beach is renowned for its coral reefs, which are home to a variety of marine life, including colorful fish, turtles, and exotic corals. Snorkeling and scuba diving are popular activities, offering visitors a chance to explore the underwater world. Glass-bottom boat tours are also available for those who prefer to stay dry while enjoying the beauty beneath the waves.

Hikkaduwa Beach is a hub of activity, with numerous beachfront cafes, restaurants, and bars that offer a mix of local and international cuisine. The beach is also famous for its vibrant nightlife, with live music, beach parties, and fire shows creating a festive atmosphere after sunset.

Whether you’re looking to relax under the sun, engage in water sports, or experience the local culture, Hikkaduwa Beach offers something for everyone, making it a must-visit destination on Sri Lanka’s stunning coastline.

Hikkaduwa Highlights

End - Airport

Client Reviews

David S

Excellent, our dream tour comes true

We had a choice of tour companies, but we settled on Cealan Tours and we never regretted it. Our tour consultant was patient and understanding in the planning phase, helping us and guiding us in planning our tour, advising and accommodating all our wishes to the minute detail. Our guide and driver then made sure that all our plans worked like clockwork, and made our stay in Sri Lanka one of the best holidays we have ever had, and we have been to many places. He is an expert driver and guide, and is very knowledgeable and trustworthy. We had cultural activities, safaris, relaxing time at the hotels/ beaches/ pools, good food, great accommodation. If going to Sri Lanka contact Cealan Tours.

Daniel

Excellent travel agent

Cealan Tours prepared a custom made tour that was excellent. They took all our input and also recommended places and activities that we wouldn’t have thought of otherwise. Even the smallest inconveniences were resolved satisfactorily and made even better. Our guide and driver that took us to discover his country with a great smile and all his knowledge. Also he would stop at any moment for yet another picture, or to explain us about a new wild animal and bird that was in our way. If you are coming to Sri Lanka please do not doubt to book through Cealan Tours and you will have a guaranteed great experience.

Christian S

An excellent experience!

I booked a weeklong tour for myself and 4 friends through Cealan Tours. We had some trouble narrowing down the number of people for our trip but the representative from Cealan Tours was incredibly patient and helped support us throughout. We made several changes to our itinerary to fit what we wanted. When arriving in Sri Lanka we were met by our tour guide in summary he was brilliant. He immediately helped us change currency at the best rate and acquire a SIM card before leaving the airport. Throughout the tour he was excellent providing us with information at each attraction and providing us with help for things we did outside of the Itinerary. Overall our experience was excellent and I would absolutely recommend!

Laurita

Awesome trip with Cealan Tours

We had being doing a 10 day trip in Sri Lanka with Cealan Tours and the experience has been extremely good. All the staff of Cealan Tours has been really efficient and nice from the beginning, they have being very flexible organizing exactly the trip that we wanted to do and giving us really good suggestions and our driver, couldn’t have been better, always smiling and helping us and being very flexible to be sure that we were happy at every moment of our trip. I have to mention also that he is a very good and experienced driver. I highly recommend Cealan Tours, do not hesitate to contact them to have your perfect vacation in Sri Lanka. Thank you for everything.

Anna M

Great first trip to Sri Lanka

Cealan Tours was my preferred choice as they were responsive and attentive to our needs from the itinerary planning stage. Our guide also extended his warm and gentle hospitality to us throughout the trip.

We covered good ground in a week via Dambulla, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Yala,Galle…

Definitely recommend anyone considering a reliable agent/guide for traveling to Sri Lanka!

Rendy W

Perfect guided tour through Sri-Lanka

CealanTours made our trip to Sri-Lanka to an unforgettable adventure. They created a varied tour through this so beautiful country, including all our whishes. We didn‘t need to care about anything and could just enjoy our holiday.

Our guide/driver (and now good friend) showed us beautiful places, told us everything about the country and culture, we wanted to know, and also introduced us in Sri-Lanka food. The driver was a very secure driver. We can highly recommend.

Jonathan S

Super professionel private family tour

Super professional tour filled with fantastic experiences. We travelled with family and friends for 2 weeks in Sri Lanka. The trip was tailor made for our group by Cealan Tours and it was a great success from the beginning to the end. A special thanks to our amazing guide and his team (driver and assistant). They made our tour unforgettable through exceptional care and attention to our needs. It was enough to mention that we want to see, do or buy something and it was immediately included into our agenda. They helped us to learn a lot about Sri Lanka, its people, culture and history though his deep knowledge of the matter. I can recommend Cealan Tours without any doubt. Big thanks once again!!

Alisha B

Exceptional Service

Cealan tours provided exceptional service during our recent trip to Sri Lanka. From the moment we began our journey, it was clear that we were in the hands of professionals who genuinely care about their clients. Every detail of our itinerary was thoughtfully planned by the very knowledgeable and most amazing and the passion and knowledge of our guides and our driver. They brought each destination to life in a way we could never have imagined. The team’s dedication and personal touches made our trip not just a vacation, but an unforgettable adventure filled with cherished memories. We will forever treasure the moments we shared and look forward to embarking on another adventure with you in the future.