Sri Lanka 8-day tour

Posted on by Sanjeewa Padmal (Seerendipity)

Sri Lanka, a nation steeped in culture and history, is among the most desirable vacation spots worldwide. Sri Lanka is a nation that offers year-round pleasures, including the allure of its cultural triangle, the pristine beaches with tork waters encircling the island, the allure of its hill country adorned with verdant mountains, and the fascination of the wildlife showcased in its national parks. A prominent Sri Lankan vacation specialist, Seerendipity Tours, provides an Sri Lanka 8-day tour itinerary that has been meticulously planned to take you to the country’s essence.

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Sri Lanka 8-day tour

Sri Lanka, a nation steeped in culture and history, is among the most desirable vacation spots worldwide. Sri Lanka is a nation that offers year-round pleasures, including the allure of its cultural triangle, the pristine beaches with tork waters encircling the island, the allure of its hill country adorned with verdant mountains, and the fascination of the wildlife showcased in its national parks. A prominent Sri Lankan vacation specialist, Seerendipity Tours, provides an Sri Lanka 8-day tour itinerary that has been meticulously planned to take you to the country’s essence.

The best places to visit on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour

“What are the best places to visit on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour?” “What is the best 8-day itinerary for Sri Lanka?” “What is the cost for a Sri Lanka 8-day tour?” “From time to time, our readers ask this type of question.” Sri Lanka’s 8-day tour is very popular with international tourists, and Seerendipity Tours arranges twelve of them each month. Almost all of the passengers on this Sri Lanka 8-day tour are international tourists.

I chose to write this blog post under the heading “Best Places to Visit in Sri Lanka 8-Day Tour” for two reasons. Firstly, I receive numerous emails from customers inquiring about the best places to visit on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour. Furthermore, the second rationale is the recently introduced Sri Lanka 8-day tour itinerary, which encompasses the fifteen destinations listed below, all within the confines of eight days.

The desire to meet the increasing demand for the Sri Lanka 8-day tour led to its creation. Tourists are willing to embark on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour and dedicate their time to visiting significant landmarks throughout the island. This Sri Lanka tour encompasses a variety of captivating locations, including the Sri Lanka ultural triangle, historical monuments, Buddhist temples, forts, picturesque countryside, and tea gardens. Nevertheless, I will only highlight 15 locations that I believe you should not neglect in Sri Lanka; however, if you wish to include them on your Sri Lanka 8-day tour,. 

Getting around in Sri lanka on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour

For an 8-day Sri Lankan tour, a private vehicle with a local guide or chauffeur is considered the most comfortable mode of transportation. The Sri Lanka 8-day tour, like the majority of Seerendipity’s other tour itineraries, is private. A local driver-guide offers private sightseeing tours and ground transportation.

What are the top fifteen destinations to visit on Sri Lanka 8-day tour?

  • Sigiriay rock fortress
  • Dambulla golden temple
  • Temple of the tooth relic
  • Kandyan cultural show
  • Royal botanical gardens
  • Down town kandy
  • Tea factory/Plantation
  • Ramboda waterfall
  • Nuwara Eliya
  • Gregory Lake
  • Sita amman temple
  • Victoria park
  • Udawalawe temple
  • Galle For
  • Madu River estaury
  • Bentot beach
  1. Eight-day itinerary for Sri Lanka: Siriya Rock
    Sigiriya Rock Fortress is among Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist destinations. Sigiriya holds significant historical value as one of the island’s most prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This location serves as the inaugural halt on the inaugural day of the eight-day Sri Lanka tour.
  2. Temple of Dambulla Golden Cave
    Dating back to the first century BC, the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple is among the most historically significant Buddhist temples in the globe. Additionally, the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. More than one hundred and fifty statues are concealed within the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, which is included in the majority of Sri Lanka tour packages and day excursions to the Sri Lanka cultural triangle.
  3. 8-day excursion to Sri Lanka: visit to the Tooth Relic Temple
    Kandy’s Tooth Relic Temple is regarded as the holiest Buddhist structure in all of Sri Lanka. Not only is the temple a significant religious attraction in Sri Lanka, but it is also well-known across the Buddhist world. The temple receives tens of thousands of Buddhist devotees each day.
  4. Kandyan Cultural Exhibition
    The cultural exhibition showcases musical and dance performances originating from Sri Lanka. The cultural performance is restricted to a few locations in Kandy and lasts for approximately one hour.
  5. Sri Lanka 8-day tour visiting botanical garden
    One of the best-known and most aesthetically pleasing botanical gardens in Sri Lanka is the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya. In close proximity to Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Garden is an essential stop on any visit to the region.
  6. Sri Lanka 8-day tour Kandy city tour with down town kandy
    Tourists embark on a sightseeing tour of bustling downtown Kandy, where they are treated to a visit of this nature. Guests can visit a variety of establishments, including apparel boutiques, souvenir shops, cafeterias, and jewelry stores, during the approximately two-hour city tour that encircles the bustling downtown.
  7. Factory/plantation of tea
    A visit to a tea plantation and factory is an essential component of any journey to Sri Lanka. From Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, there are numerous tea plantations where you can pause to observe the traditional tea-making process.
    Tea, which is among the most significant export commodities of Sri Lanka, generates tens of millions of dollars for the nation. Sri Lanka, a tea-drinking nation, is the producer of “CEYLON TEA,” the preeminent tea brand in the world.
  8. The Ramboda waterfall
    A waterfall that is among the most picturesque on the island flows over the Ramdoa plateau. Hundreds of visitors visit the 90-meter-tall waterfall on a daily basis. A downhill stroll is necessary for visitors to get a closer look at the cascades. From May to November, during the rainy season in the mountains, when torrential rain nourishes the cascades, they are at their most magnificent.
  9. Sri Lanka 8-day tour: Nuwara Eliya city tour
    The tranquil atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya’s mountain resort is its main selling point. In stark contrast to the lowland coastal resorts of Colombo and Bentota, this region features verdant mountains, tea plantations, waterfalls, rivers, and forest patches.
  10. Itinerary for Sri Lanka excursion: Gregory Lake visit
    Perennial channels that come from the Pidurutalagala Mountains feed Gregory’s Lake. Nuwara Eliya visitors will find Gregory Lake and the adjacent area to be immaculately maintained and purpose-built to accommodate children, families, and picnic enthusiasts. Extensive vacant spaces, walking paths, and facilities for children comprise the Gregory Lake vicinity, which is also ideal for social gatherings. Fishing, equestrian riding, speed boating, and boating are among the most popular activities in this area.
  11. Amman’s Seetha Temple
    Seetha Amman Temple is a Hindu temple dedicated to the veneration of Seetha, the consort of the deity Rama. Hindu devotees from all over the world, especially India, visit the temple in significant numbers, in addition to those from Sri Lanka.
  12. Visiting Victoria park on a Sri Lanka 8-day tour
    The genesis of the exquisite garden can be traced back to the British colonial period in the early 18th century. In spite of its modest dimensions, the garden is exceptionally impressive on account of its extensive assortment of blossoming plants and trees. From April to June, during the flowering season in the mountains, the garden is exceptionally lovely, as it is adorned with an array of vibrant hues.
  13. Udawalawe National Park is located there.
    Udawalawee National is a destination that is widely recognized among travelers owing to its abundant fauna and the elephant transit camp. Udawalawe National Park is renowned for hosting elephant safaris, and it is not uncommon to encounter sizable herds of untamed elephants. Adjacent to Udawalawe National Park, the elephant transit camp provides sanctuary for orphan elephants that were discovered abandoned in other regions of the island’s forests.
  14. Sri Lanka 8-day tour: Galle Fort
    As the preeminent tourist destination in southern Sri Lanka, Galle Fort daily draws a significant influx of international visitors. Galle Fort, constructed in the 16th century, is the most remarkably preserved Dutch fort in Asia. During Dutch rule in Sri Lanka (1656–1796 AD), it had been the residence of Dutch administrators and was furnished with every amenity and convenience.
    The Fort, which was established over two centuries ago, continues to house a diverse array of establishments, including hotels, cafes, museums, stores, galleries, and religious sites, all of which remain in pristine condition. A visit to southern Sri Lanka would be incomplete without a Fort Walk excursion. A stroll through the intricate cobblestone streets would transport one to an old European city from the sixteenth century.
  15. Esteemed Madu River Estuary
    The estuary of the Madu River, classified as a Ramsar wetland, is renowned for its exceptional biodiversity of riverine plants and animals in Sri Lanka. A mangrove forest, Buddhist temples, crocodiles, primates, monitors, and numerous species of avian fauna are all sights to behold during the boat ride.
  16. Bentota Shores
    Bentota, which is among the most alluring beaches on the island, serves as a sanctuary for a significant number of beach vacationers. Bentota beach is well-suited not only for sunbathing but also for a variety of other thrilling watersports activities, including snorkeling, diving, surfing, kayaking, and watercraft.

An outline of the itinerary for Sri Lanka 8-day tour

This eight-day itinerary provides a distinctive opportunity to immerse oneself in the historical legacy of Sri Lanka through visits to numerous UNESCO world heritage sites. These sites are renowned for their magnificent architecture, enormous stupas, exquisite paintings, stone carvings, and wood carvings.

During your three days in the cultural triangle, the magnificent historical monuments of Sigiriya, Dambulla, and Kandy will astound you. You will have numerous opportunities to interact with locals, gain insight into rural life, and learn Sri Lankan cuisine through a village cooking class.

When is the best time to embark on an Sri Lanka 8-day tour?

The southern route of the Sri Lanka 8-day tour is by far the most popular itinerary among tourists, particularly foreign tourists. The optimal season to embark on this eight-day Sri Lanka tour is between November and April. From November to April, the southern region and western coast of Sri Lanka experience relatively arid and sunny conditions, in accordance with the country’s weather pattern. Amidst these conditions, the south and western regions of the island encounter only light precipitation and temperatures hover around 30 degrees Celsius.

What is the itinerary for the Sri Lanka 8-day tour?

    • Day 1: visit the gilded cave temple of Dambulla.
    • Day 2: Visiting Sigiriya rock and Polonnaruwa on day two, followed by a village tour and cuisine class.
    • Day 3: Visit Kandy, the tooth relic temple, and a cultural performance.
    • Day 4: Visit Nuwara Eliya, the tea plantations, and the Ramboda waterfall. Udawalawe jeep safari in the afternoon
    • Day 5: Visiting Mirissa beach.
    • Day 6: Whale viewing and leisure
    • Day 7: Bentota and Galle
    • Day 8: Departure

    A visit to Sri Lanka provides an unprecedented opportunity to discover a lush, verdant nation and to encounter awe-inspiring phenomena that will alter your perception of the enchanting island. The historical monuments along the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka (Kandy-Polonnaruwa-Anuradhapura) contribute to its notoriety, whereas the country’s mountains feature breathtaking vistas and cascading cascades. The final segment of the excursion provides an unparalleled vantage point due to its pristine coastlines. You will also pay visits to local communities and an elephant rescue center in Udawalawe, in addition to these historical sites, Buddhist temples, mountains, and coastlines.

    Plan a Sri Lanka 8-day tour

    It is possible to reserve this private tour bundle at any time of the year. While the pre-arranged Sri Lanka itinerary for eight days is a tour package, it is possible to tailor it to accommodate the particular needs and desires of the travelers. By designating it as a private tour, we are able to accommodate any modifications that our clients may request.

    Can I combine the Sri Lanka 8-day tour with other programs?

    Additionally, the tour can be integrated with various tour packages, including but not limited to the Yala safari tour, Udawalawe wildlife tour, Kitulgala whitewater rafting, and beach holiday packages.

    Can I book this tour in other languages other than English?

    Although English is the primary language of instruction, tour facilitators who are fluent in additional languages are available upon request. The trip can be booked in German, French, Spanish, russian and many other languages. However, there is a supplement to pay if you book the Sri Lanka 8-day tour with foreign language speaking guides other than English.

    What are the main attractions included in the Sri Lanka 8-day tour?

    • Visiting the Sigiriya fortress of rocks
    • Visiting the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla
    • Investigating the historical site of Polonnaruwa
    • Attend the evening ceremony at the temple of dental relics in Kandy
    • Behold the acrobatic feats of performers from Sri Lanka
    • Safari in a four-wheeled jeep through the Udawalawe wildlife reserve
    • Observe young orphan elephants nursing their young at the Udawalawe elephant transit camp.
    • Take an afternoon promenade to appreciate the sea breeze
    • Acquire knowledge of Sri Lankan cuisine through enrollment in a village cookery course.

    Detailed Sri Lanka 8-day tour itinerary

    Day 1; Eight-day tour of Sri Lanka: Visit the golden cave temple of Dambulla

    A Seerendipity Tours representative will meet and greet you before escorting you to your hotel in Sigiriya. This eight-day itinerary in Sri Lanka can begin at either the airport or the hotel of your preference. The initial destination of your eight-day itinerary in Sri Lanka will be the Dambulla Golden Cave Temple en route.

    Temple of gold at Dambulla

    The Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, which dates back to the 1st century BC, is among the largest and oldest Buddhist temples in the globe.
    Dambulla, where the temple is situated, is one of the most dynamic communities in the central province and undeniably a metropolis of contrasts. In recent years, the city has experienced significant growth and has become one of the most populous and bustling communities in the region.

    Visit the Cave Temple Dambulla

    Following lunch, your guide leads you on a hike to the cave temple of Dambulla, where you will be shown over 150 Buddha statues, deity figures, and king statues across five caves. Thousands of wall and ceiling paintings dating back centuries are on display at the same time; however, due to the caverns’ high humidity, some of the artworks have been destroyed in recent decades.

    Later that day, proceed to the hotel for check-in and relax, or alternatively, embark on a languid stroll to appreciate the scenic allure of Sigiriya and its environs. In this arid region, there is an abundance of vegetation and lakes, whereas the rocky outcrop has been converted into rice terraces against the backdrop of rugged mountains. This forested arid zone region is a popular birding location on the island, where visitors can easily observe numerous indigenous avian and fauna species.

    Our knowledgeable guide will help you learn about the traditions, landmarks, cuisine, and historical significance of this neighborhood, which contrasts modern homes with historic ones. The majority of international visitors to Sri Lanka who are exploring the Cultural Triangle visit Sigiriya or Habarana. Sigiriya/Habarana’s location in the heart of the cultural triangle grants convenient access to the majority of its attractions.

    Day 2: Sri Lanka 8-day tour

    The morning of the second day of an eight-day tour of Sri Lanka is spent at the Sigiriya rock fortification.
    During the second day of this eight-day itinerary in Sri Lanka, you will ascend to the Sigiriya rock fortress. A much more arduous ascent than the one at Dambulla, the ascent to the Sigiriya rock fortress served as a warm-up for the expedition at Dambulla cave temple. Today, the guide will coordinate the early pick-up, and you will depart at approximately 7:00 AM.

    Sigiriya rock fortress

    Starting the Sigiriya hike as early as possible will allow one to avoid the region’s oppressive heat. Due to the elevated humidity levels, substantial perspiration occurs during the ascent, necessitating the consumption of a considerable quantity of fluids.

    Sigiriya, which attracts tens of thousands of visitors daily and is one of the most recognizable tourist landmarks on the island, is possibly the most significant tourism destination in the cultural triangle. Established in the 5th century AD, the Sigiriya rock fortress boasts meticulously designed and landscaped gardens, an advanced water management system, expertise in construction methodologies, and accomplished artistic prowess.
    Each of the upward and downward journeys lasts approximately three hours. It is highly recommended to bring hiking-appropriate footwear, while minimal attire consists of a cotton t-shirt and cotton trousers. It is advisable to carry a bottle of water with you while ascending the boulder. Please be advised that no restrooms are available on the premises.

    The two-hour trek in Sigiriya may extend for an additional two to three hours. Contraindicated for expectant women and individuals suffering from knee or back issues. Utilizing comfortable footwear is strongly advised when ascending the 2000 narrow steps.

    Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in the afternoon:

    The distance between Sigiriya and the historical city of Polonnaruwa is approximately one hour. The historical city of Polonnaruwa is the final destination of the half-day excursion to the city. The ancient city excursion lasts approximately two hours. Guests on the Polonnaruwa city tour are treated to a variety of fascinating locations, including temples, palaces, audience halls, leisure gardens, lakes, and numerous other historical structures.

    Village of Sigiriya tour:

    A five-day itinerary for Sri Lanka that includes a village tour is a must-do for the majority of tourists, as it provides an indelible, one-of-a-kind experience that is exclusive to Sigiriya. While it is possible to enroll in culinary classes in numerous locations across the island, this particular class in Hiriwadunna distinguishes itself by providing an authentic local experience.

    The approximately one-hour Hiriwadunna village tour includes a cooking class, bullock cart excursion, and boat tour. A village family will be present at the village residence and farmlands, where you will be escorted. Together with the female chef, you will learn how to prepare meals and ultimately sample your creations. On your way back to the hotel in Sigiriya, you should stop by a local temple.

    Day 3: Sri Lanka 8-day tour

    Depart for the hotel in Kandy following breakfast, stopping en route at the spice garden in Matale. Although Matale is in close proximity to Sigiriya and Dambulla, it is situated in the wet zone of Sri Lanka, which experiences exceptionally heavy annual precipitation. As you pass through Matale, which is home to a sizable Tamil population, you will be able to observe a number of Hindu temples.

    Hindu temple Matale

    Matale is renowned for its spice gardens, which provide visitors with an opportunity to examine an assortment of herbs and spices in greater detail. There are a sizable number of farmers living in Matale, the main spice-growing region of Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka’s primary foreign exchange earner is the spice industry. Following an educational session on the economic significance of the diverse spices cultivated on the island, you are transferred to a hotel in Kandy.

    The third morning of an eight-day tour of Sri Lanka: a visit to a spice garden

    Proceed to the hotel in Kandy after breakfast, stopping en route to explore the spice garden. An engaging activity, a stroll through the Spice Garden grants visitors the opportunity to observe an extensive assortment of trees and plants that are utilized in the production of diverse condiments, herbs, and spices. During the two-hour stroll through the open garden, you will also have the chance to learn about the Ayurvedic traditional healing system.

    Tooth relic temple, Kandy city tour, and Kandyan cultural performance

    You will arrive at the hotel in Kandy prior to noon and have a short break before continuing with the city tour of Kandy. You will visit downtown Kandy, a gem lapidary, a gem museum, and a silk garden as part of the city tour. Following the city tour, attend the Kandyan cultural performance.

    Kandyan cultural show

    Following the city tour, proceed to the Kandyan Lake Club to observe the Kandyan cultural show, which features dance troupes, drum and flute ensembles, and musical ensembles. The Kandyan cultural show, which lasts for one hour, attracts a substantial audience. The Kandyan cultural show provides an ideal occasion to observe authentic Sri Lankan musical performances and dance.

    Toot relic temple

    The tooth relic temple’s evening ceremony commences concurrently with the conclusion of the Kandyan cultural exhibition. Immediately following the conclusion of the Kandyan cultural show, guests depart for the tooth relic temple adjacent to Lake Club. The distance from the lake club to the temple is approximately three minutes on foot.

    Every day, thousands of devotees and foreign visitors alike visit the island’s most revered Buddhist temple, the Tooth Relic Temple. The evening ceremony, which starts at 06.30, lasts about 1 hour and is the best time to visit the temple. Former Sri Lankan kings once resided in the lovely temple, which is now proudly housing the left eyetooth of Buddha.

    Day 4: Kandy and Nuwara Eliya

    After a leisurely breakfast, leave for the hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya is just 100 kilometers from Kandy, and the journey without stops takes around 2 hours. However, the journey today will take around 5 hours because of the two stops at Ranboda waterfall and a tea factory.

    Nuwara eliya sightseeing tour

    Take a sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon, then visit downtown Nuwareliya, Gregory Lake, Victoria Park, a golf course, and a racecourse.

    Tea factory tour

    The first stop of the day will be a tea factory in Ramboda, where you can check out the tea manufacturing process. This valuable crop predominates in Sri Lanka’s mountains, and tea covers a sizable portion of the country’s land. Visitors are able to try a freshly brewed teacup at a tea party hosted by the tea factory and ultimately, you have the opportunity to buy a sample of the best Ceylon tea.

    Visiting Ramboda waterfall

    The Ramboda waterfalls, followed by the tea factory visit, make a trek to the Ramboda fall, which is one of the most beautiful waterfalls in the mountains of Sri Lanka. After the Ramboda Falls, you will encounter Sita Amman Temple and Gregory Lake, where your guide makes a stop to take a closer look at those tourist attractions.

    In the evening, visit the elephant transit camp in Udawalawe, where you can see a large herd of baby elephants struggling to survive in the jungle. Now they are healthy and safe in the hands of caretakers. The small jumbos visit the elephant transit camp every day during the feeding hours, while the rest of the day they are learning to live in their natural habitat. Once they reach adulthood, the park administration releases the babies to live their own lives in the jungle.

    Day 5: Sri Lanka itinerary (8 days)

    After exploring the hill country resort of Nuwara Eliya, you will head to the south coast of Sri Lanka, where you will again arrive at low-elevated areas such as beaches.

    Visiting Udawalawe and beaches

    After breakfast, leave for Mirissa Beach via Udawalawe and Ella. The journey takes around 2 hours, including check-in at the hotel and leisure. Afterwards, embark on a safari at Udawalwe National Park and, subsequently, visit the elephant transit camp.

    Day 6: hale watching tour

    The day starts early (at 6:00 a.m.) from your beach hotel in Mirissa, as you drive to Mirissa harbor with your chauffeur guide. You will board a specially designed whale-watching boat and set sail with an experienced crew and a nature guide on board. The whale-watching tour lasts between 2 and 5 hours; however, in some cases, it can be a bit longer than that.

    Due to the uncertainty of the duration of the whale-watching boat tour, we do not plan any other important activity for today’s programs. Therefore, the guests are free to have leisure on the beach after the whale-watching trip.

    Day 7: Mirissa-Bentota

    After breakfast, leave for a sightseeing tour of Galle and later proceed to the beach hotel in Bentota. En route, take a walking tour of Galle Fort and make a visit to the sea turtle conservation project. In the afternoon, enjoy some leisure time at the beach resort.

    Day 8 of Sri Lanka itinerary 8 days: Bentota-Colombo

    After breakfast, leave for Colombo airport. On the last day of this 8-day Sri Lanka tour, we usually do not plan any major activities. We intend to bring you to the airport for an onward flight or take you to the beach resort of your choice. We even did not plan the departure time from the hotel today because it was highly dependent on your flight details. However, if you are traveling to a beach resort, your departure from the hotel is after breakfast.

    End of the Sri Lanka itinerary 8 days

    Why should you book a Sri Lanka 8-day tour with Seerendipity Tours?

    Headquartered in Colombo, Seerendipity Tour is a wholly locally owned travel agency. A key strength of Seerendipity Tours is its exceptionally knowledgeable local personnel, which can assist you in organizing your ideal holiday to Sri Lanka.

    Get the best price for your Sri Lanka 8-day tour

    When you make a reservation through us, you are making the excursion directly with the local company; there are no intermediaries involved, allowing us to ensure that you receive the most competitive price. Simply get in touch with us and specify your travel plans and preferred tourist destinations.

    Plan your Sri Lanka 8-day tour with experts

    Our staff will create a customized itinerary for you, which you are free to modify until you find the most suitable package. Additionally, for ideas, you may peruse our existing tour packages; each of our pre-made tour packages is adaptable and can be modified to precisely your specifications. Contact us via telephone or email at admin@seerendipitytours.com. [WordPress] 0094-77-4440977; 0094-77-440977