Check out our diverse 12-day itineraries across Sri Lanka, each designed to cater to different interests. If you'd like to discover UNESCO World Heritage Sites and enjoy wildlife safaris, consider something similar to this highlights of Sri Lanka trip, which takes you from the ancient ruins in Sigiriya to a cultural visit of Colombo. For a blend of culture, wildlife, and leisure at some of the country's most pristine beaches, opt for a trip like this Central and Southern Sri Lanka itinerary, where you can explore the Dambulla Cave Temples and lounge on the sands of Unawatuna. Couples wanting a romantic getaway should consider an escape similar to this honeymoon in Sri Lanka itinerary, which features quiet beach stays, exciting wildlife safaris, and visits to archaeological and cultural sites.
See our itineraries below or read our guide to the best 12-day trips in Sri Lanka.
Known as the "Jewel of the Indian Ocean," Sri Lanka is famed for its centuries of history and exotic tropical wildlife. Explore the island's top destinations through this introductory tour that will satisfy both nature lovers and cultural enthusiasts alike.
This 12-day honeymoon is perfect for couples who love exotic wildlife and natural scenery. Starting from the capital, you'll circle the island-nation exploring a boggling array of national parks, rainforests, ancient villages, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and Buddhist relics. After each day of sightseeing with your private guide, you'll have quality time (alone) at your accommodations—a fun mix of resorts, beach hotels, and safari camps—for the ultimate romantic adventure.
Discover the culture, heritage, wildlife, and beaches on this Sri Lankan journey. To start, visit the esteemed Dambulla Rock Temple. Then, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, followed by a trip to a local village, complete with a nature walk and an authentic meal on a working farm. Next, explore the temples and sights of Kandy and the scenic tea country of Ella. Stop for a safari at Yala National Park and then head to Weligama for an ancient fort tour, some whale watching, and four days of beach bliss.
Twelve days of ancient temples, mountain tea estates, and tropical beaches await on this luxurious Sri Lankan escape. Sit back as your private driver whisks you through the island's natural wonders and historical monuments in style, from the Cultural Triangle to the Hill Country and on to the wildlife haven of Yala National Park. End your trip with a Champagne toast and some blissful free time on the palm-fringed beaches of Tangalle.
This 12-day itinerary combines cultural highlights with wildlife spotting and some low-key beach time for the ultimate introduction to Sri Lanka. Check off iconic highlights like Sigiriya, Dambulla, and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, then head to the mountains to cool off in the heart of tea country. After searching for leopards, elephants, and sloth bears on a safari through Yala National Park, make your way to the warm waters of the Indian Ocean for two days of downtime on Unawatuna's beaches.
Perfect for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, this jam-packed 12-day itinerary highlights Sri Lanka's most dramatic and diverse landscapes. Hike to five of the country's most scenic waterfalls, raft down the raging Kelani River, see rare wildlife in Horton Plains and Udawalawe National Parks, and end your adventure with some well-earned downtime on the white sand beaches of Weligama.
This 12-day escape combines the best of Sri Lanka, from history and culture to action and adventure. In Colombo, you'll tour historic colonial landmarks before heading into the central highlands to visit ancient temples and romantic waterfalls. Other adventures include train trips through tea plantations, mountain hikes, safaris in national parks, and visiting the mystical rock fortress of Sigiriya.
This grand surfing adventure takes you to the best breaks in Sri Lanka—plus, it throws in a few cultural highlights along the way. After visiting historic forts and pagodas in Galle, you'll take a scenic road trip to Arugam Bay, the most famous surf destination in the country. Spend a few days enjoying its point breaks before heading to Weligama, another surf mecca, where you'll ride reef and sand breaks while making new friends.
This itinerary mixes the outdoors, culture, and history to create the perfect vacation in Sri Lanka. Witness history in the form of colonial landmarks and marvel at the country's beauty on visits to highland tea plantations and mountain waterfalls. After touring the Sigiriya rock fortress and Japanese Peace Pagoda, end the trip by visiting buildings designed by Geoffrey Bawa, one of the most famous architects in Asia.
This active 12-day tour showcases the beauty of Sri Lanka, with historic sites, outdoor excursions, and plenty of wildlife. Start with an overnight in coastal Negombo, then transfer to Anuradhapura, where you'll visit the 13th-century citadel of Yapahuwa. From there, climb to the top of Sigiriya Rock, bike through Habarana, and discover the UNESCO-listed city of Kandy. You'll also hike around Horton National Park and meet elephants in Udawalawe before relaxing on the beaches of Unawatuna.
See the highlights of Sri Lanka on this romantic luxury tour, experiencing the island's culture and natural wonders. Start in Kalpitiya, where you'll visit historic Dutch sites and local beaches before continuing to Sigiriya. See the giant reclining Buddha of Pidurangala, hike to the top of Sigiriya Rock, then depart for UNESCO-Listed Kandy and its Temple of the Sacred Tooth. Go glamping in Ahaspokuna and trek to Belihuloya's hidden waterfalls, ending with the pristine sands of Galle.
