Holiday Retreat · Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka Tour: Explore Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy and Bentota! Sri Lanka

5 Days / 4 Nights 29% OFF
Kandy Lake, Sri Lanka
Sigiriya Rock, Sri Lanka
Dambulla Cave Temple, Sri Lanka
Bentota Beach, Sri Lanka
Kandy Temple, Sri Lanka
Overview

Culture and Coastline

Planning a trip to Sri Lanka? You're in for an unforgettable adventure! This small island packs a huge punch with its diverse landscapes, rich culture, and mouthwatering food. Whether you’re into vibrant cities, golden beaches, ancient temples, or wildlife-packed jungles, Sri Lanka has a little bit of everything. The locals are warm and welcoming, the food is full of spices and flavors, and the whole place feels like a blend of modern life and deep-rooted traditions. Plus, getting around is super easy, with plenty of options to suit all kinds of travelers, from backpackers to those looking for a comfy, more relaxed vibe. It's the kind of place where you can hop between historic ruins one day, and sip coconut water by the ocean the next. Whether it's a bustling market, a quiet tea plantation, or a random roadside snack that becomes your favorite, Sri Lanka's got surprises at every turn.

Tour Highlights

Tour Highlights

  • A trip to Sri Lanka offers a rich blend of historical, cultural, and coastal experiences.
  • Sigiriya stands out with its ancient rock fortress, where you can climb the iconic Lion Rock and see the remnants of ancient frescoes and gardens.
  • Nearby, Dambulla is known for its impressive cave temple complex, filled with Buddha statues and vibrant murals.
  • Kandy offers a spiritual and cultural experience with the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, nestled amidst a bustling town and vibrant markets.
  • Finally, Bentota’s coastal charm is perfect for relaxing by the beach, enjoying watersports, and visiting local turtle hatcheries.
  • Each destination, from ancient history to seaside leisure, adds a unique layer to the journey.
Day by Day

Itinerary

Day 1

Sigiriya

Arrive in Sri Lanka at the Katunayake Airport.

Be escorted to explore the ancient city of Sigiriya. Check out the beautiful ruins of Sigiriya and a palace that was build in the shape of a lion.

Check in your hotel and relax and have a delicious dinner before you call it a day.

Day 2

Dambulla

Taste Sri Lanka’s tropical fruits for your breakfast and proceed to check out the Dambulla Cave temple.

Take a boat ride through the villages and and explore the culture and lifestyle of Sri Lanka.

Reach back to your hotel and enjoy a rejuvenating massage/spa session.

Grab your dinner and call it a day!

Meals: Meals: Breakfast

Day 3

Kandy

Explore the spices in the villages, along with a Sri Lankan home cooked lunch! Also explore the Kandy temple of tooth relic; where it is said that the canine of Buddha is enshrined.

You can also take a walk around the beautiful Kandy lake before you go back to your hotel and relax for the night!

Meals: Meals: Breakfast

Day 4

Bentota

Check into your hotel in Bentota and explore the Golden Beach in Bentota.

The perfect spot for any one who loves the ocean! The sunrise and sunsets are a catch for the place. Engage yourself with the water activities and enjou your dinner!

Call it a day and stay in the beautiful Bentota beach.

Meals: Meals: Breakfast

Day 5

Check out and departure

Have a delicious breakfast and check out of the hotel. You will be escorted to the airport and you can carry back your memories home!

Meals: Meals: Breakfast

Experience

What to Expect from this Trip

A trip to Sri Lanka is all about vibrant culture, mouth-watering food, and rich history. Whether you’re wandering through ancient temples, chilling on a beach, or saying hello to elephants in the wild, there’s always something cool happening. The people are warm, the markets are buzzing, and don’t even get me started on the tea plantations. Plus, there's a perfect mix of laid-back vibes and exciting adventures, with everything from bustling cities to quiet mountain towns waiting for you.

Accommodations

A charming 3-star hotel on all days, providing a comfortable stay.

Backpackers United Team

Our team will provide you with a responsible and experienced driver to help with transfers throughout the trip. If required, we will also arrange a tour guide to help you with sightseeing locations.

Pack List

Things to Carry

Floaters or Sandals

Tees / Tshirts

Quick Dry Towel

Sun Cap / Hat

Sunscreen SPF 40+

Personal Toiletries

Personal Medication / First Aid

Sun Glasses / Reading Glasses

Charger

Power Bank

Personal Documents & ID's

Camera

Insect Repellent

Travel with the tribe

You pick the weekend.
We map the route.

Join a small group of travellers on our next departure. Overnight bus, curated stays, handled logistics — you just show up with a bag.

Group trip
Mountain viewpoint
Travellers together
FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What are the must-visit places in Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka is packed with fascinating destinations. Sigiriya, known for its ancient rock fortress, is a standout. Dambulla houses the famous cave temples with impressive Buddhist statues and murals. Kandy, a cultural hub, is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. If you’re into coastal vibes, Bentota offers stunning beaches and water sports.
How do I get to Sigiriya from Colombo?
You can either drive or take a bus from Colombo to Sigiriya. The journey by road takes about 4-5 hours, depending on traffic. For a quicker option, you can fly from Colombo to Sigiriya, though flights can be infrequent.
What’s special about Sigiriya?
Sigiriya is famous for its ancient rock fortress, also called the Lion Rock. It has historical significance and offers panoramic views from the top. The site also has well-preserved frescoes and ancient water gardens.
What can I see in Dambulla?
The Dambulla Cave Temple complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It features centuries-old Buddhist statues and murals inside the caves. The Golden Temple is also nearby, making Dambulla an important spiritual and historical destination.
How long should I spend in Kandy?
A day or two is usually enough to cover Kandy's highlights. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, stroll through the Royal Botanical Gardens, and check out the local markets. If you have more time, you can explore nearby tea plantations or take a scenic train ride.
What’s the best time to visit Bentota?
The ideal time to visit Bentota is between November and April when the weather is dry and pleasant. This period is perfect for beach activities like snorkeling, jet skiing, and boat rides on the Bentota River.
Can I visit all these places in one trip?
Yes, it's possible to cover Sigiriya, Dambulla, Kandy, and Bentota in one trip. A typical itinerary could include spending a couple of days in each location. You can start with the cultural triangle of Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy, then head to the coast for some relaxation in Bentota.
What’s the best way to travel between Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy?
Hiring a car with a driver is the most convenient way to travel between these destinations. It allows flexibility and comfort. Alternatively, you can take local buses or trains, but they might be slower and less reliable.
Are there any entrance fees for Sigiriya and Dambulla?
Yes, both Sigiriya and Dambulla have entrance fees. Sigiriya's entrance fee is higher due to its UNESCO World Heritage status, while Dambulla’s is relatively lower. It’s advisable to check for the most current fees as they can change.
What’s the food like in these areas?
Sri Lankan cuisine is flavorful and varied. In Kandy, you can try traditional rice and curry, while Bentota offers fresh seafood dishes. Sigiriya and Dambulla have plenty of local eateries where you can sample spicy Sri Lankan fare. Make sure to try hoppers, kottu roti, and coconut sambol during your trip!
Can I find vegetarian food easily?
Yes, Sri Lanka has a wide range of vegetarian options, especially in Buddhist cities like Kandy. Many local dishes are naturally vegetarian, such as rice and curry, dhal (lentil curry), and vegetable-based dishes.
Cancellation & Payment

Transparent cancellation policy

Good to know

  • Once a flight is booked, it is non-refundable.
  • Minimum 8 travellers required for group departures. If the group falls below 8, you'll be offered an alternative.
  • In case of weather, strikes or government restrictions, trips may be modified. Cash refunds aren't issued in such cases.
  • For international bookings, 5% GST + 3% booking fee is non-refundable.
Days before departureCancellation chargeRefund
15–30 days25%75% refunded
7–15 days50%50% refunded
3–7 days75%25% refunded
0–3 days100%No refund
4,999per person · 5 Days / 4 Nights · 29% OFF