Sightseeing & traditions in Negombo

Negombo - Sri Lanka rainforest two-day tour in Sinharaja Eco Lodge

Misty mountains and green valleys surround this retreat in southern Sri Lanka. The setting of these eco lodges is pretty hard to beat when you want to get away from it all and reconnect with nature. They're surrounded by six waterfalls and acres of the Sinharaja Rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.Day one begins with a tour of Galle city, a coastal city with a bucketload of history and culture. There's a 16th-century colonial-style fort, a lighthouse and a mish-mash of spiritual sites including a Dutch church, an Islamic mosque and a Buddhist temple. By mid-morning you'll leave the city behind and be on your way north, through rolling valleys and into the heart of the rainforest.Check into your chalet and spend the afternoon exploring the sights and sounds of the rainforest. Sip a warm cup of Ceylon tea on your private deck and soak it all in before dinner is served in the restaurant. Wake up to the sound of birdsong and head out on an early morning hike to spot your brightly feathered new neighbours. A local naturalist will be your guide through the forest to help you spot Sri Lanka blue magpies and the red-faced malkoha. After breakfast back at the lodge, you'll have free time to make the most out of the viewpoints and waterfalls before checking out and heading back towards the beach and your hotel.

Bentota - Pekoe Trail in Sri Lanka's Highlands with lunch

Take on the Sri Lankan highlands on this full-day guided hiking tour that follows stage 15 of the Pekoe Trail. You'll kick off your 13-kilometre hike, starting your journey in a pine forest. Your path takes you through plenty of photo-worthy landscapes, and you'll get a peek into Sri Lanka's history as your guide tells you about the ancient dwellings found here. Artifacts dating back over 25,000 years have been found here, many of which showed exactly how people during those times lived in the area.As you climb towards Ella Rock viewpoint, one of the region's iconic sites, you'll be treated to panoramic views – on a clear day, you can soak up the vistas of the surrounding valleys, tea plantations and distant mountains. Then, you'll take a different route down, passing through traditional Sri Lankan villages, as you follow the scenic railway track back to Ella. Here, you'll stop to recharge with a well-deserved lunch, before your returning to your hotel.

Negombo - Dambulla Cave Temple and Pidurangala Rock Tour

Two of Sri Lanka's historic hotspots feature on this full day tour from the east. Dating back to the 1st century, Dambulla Cave Temple stands as one of the most impressive sites on the island. Spend the morning exploring the complex, as well as hiking to Pidurangala Rock for great views over Sigiriya and the surrounding countryside.You'll head to Dambulla Cave Temple – or The Golden Temple of Dambulla – first. This cave complex has been a pilgrimage site in Buddhism for 22 centuries, and its spiritual importance helped it to gain UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The well-preserved rock painting and statues here are without doubt the finest in the country.Next up is Pidurangala Rock. Grab your walking boots for a moderate trek, showcasing the rich biodiversity Sri Lanka has to offer. And when you reach the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of the landscape, including a unique perspective of Sigiriya Rock.

Negombo - Kandy, Ella, Yala Park safari and Galle four-day tour

This four-day adventure is jam-packed full of not-to-be-missed places in Sri Lanka. You'll tour the cultural hub of Kandy, hike to Ella's Rock, set off on a wildlife safari at Yala National Park and see the UNESCO-listed fort in Galle. All of that, combined with a few more surprises, and you've got yourself a trip you're likely to never forget. Day one is dedicated to what's best known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. Starting at the Royal Botanical Gardens, you'll venture into the city for a guided tour and some time for shopping. See the Tooth Relic temple before ending the day with a show. Day two starts with a scenic train to Ella, where you can hike to see Little Adam's Peak and Ella's Rock.Ramp up the fun with a thrilling wildlife safari in Yala National Park on day three – this huge park is home to leopards, elephants and more. Your final day will see you explore the historic city of Galle. Here, you'll visit its impressive fort, visit a turtle hatching centre and have some lunch and free time in a beach resort.

Negombo - Kandy two-day tour by train

Kandy is jam-packed with things to see and do, so look no further than this overnight stay, giving you two days to explore the cultural capital to its fullest. Not only will you get to see the city, you'll have ample chance to visit its surrounding gems, including a spice garden, botanical gardens, museums and more.Day one starts with a scenic train ride into the city, and your first stop will be at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. It's home to more than 4,000 species of plants – including orchids and spices – and a hefty collection of trees, too. Stretch your legs and try to spot the garden's cheeky residents – toque macaques, a monkey species native to Sri Lanka. After lunch, you'll visit the Gem Museum, and there's a cultural show to look forward to before the evening at your leisure.It's an early start on day two, where you'll enjoy a guided tour of Kandy and some free time for shopping. Among the sights you'll see is the Tooth Relic temple – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to a relic of Buddha's tooth. And as we continue through the Central Highlands, we'll stop at a fragrant spice garden in Mawanella and a tea plantation and factory – for a proper cup of Ceylon tea – in Giragama.

Bentota - Madampe Ganga boat safari and Galle city tour with lunch

Galle, the jewel of Sri Lanka, is an intoxicating blend of cultures and architectural styles. As our guide Dinesh puts it, ‘In common with its eclectic building styles, Galle Fort is home to many nationalities and faiths. Still today, there's a melting pot of cultures within the ramparts, reflecting its historic role as a place of trade and transit.' As well as exploring old Galle, you will spot wildlife on a River Madampe boat ride and visit a moonstone mine.Our journey begins at Balapitiya with a boat ride on the River Madampe to see the biodiversity of the surrounding wetlands, which are home to almost 20 species of birds and a wide variety of reptiles and amphibians, too. With luck, you should be able to spot a range of species during a river safari that'll also take you through mangrove forests. The Madampe is dotted with 64 islets, and island hopping is part of the tour. Next up, it's the Ambalangoda moonstone mine, where you'll learn first-hand the process of mining from the locals.After the museum visit, we'll head to historic Galle. It will enchant you with its layered heritage, quaint streets and hives of artistic activity. Check out the old Dutch church and the beautiful white mosque at the ramparts by the sea. Oh, and the beaches aren't bad, either. Lunch will be in Galle, before a final stop at a turtle hatchery. These turtle hatcheries are crucial for the conservation of these endangered creatures, providing a safe haven for eggs to hatch and young turtles to grow strong.

Galle - Sigiriya Lion Rock and Dambulla Cave Temple tour in Sri Lanka

Admiring any UNESCO World Heritage Site is a treat. But seeing two in one day is positively spoiling yourself. This history-rich tour takes in two of Sri Lanka's standout sites – the Lion Rock of Sigiriya and the Dambulla Cave Temple. Tharindu, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Sigiriya is a fascinating time capsule of a place. It was once home to King Kasyapa who built a royal citadel and palace complex on top of the rocky outcrop.'First up is the Lion Rock of Sigiriya – Asia's answer to Machu Picchu. Rising 200 metres above the jungle, it boasts ancient frescoes, terraced gardens and stunning views. Climb the stairs cut directly into the rock and pass through the impressive lion-shaped gateway to explore the ruins of a 5th century royal palace. Tharindu adds, 'The panoramic views from this 200-metre-high rock fortress are nothing short of spectacular, and make the walk up worthwhile.'After lunch, we'll continue to the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple. Created inside five caverns, this Buddhist cave temple is a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists and a major cultural landmark in Sri Lanka. Adorned with ancient murals depicting scenes from the life of the Buddha, Jataka tales, and various deities, you'll get a close-up look at the artistic traditions of ancient Sri Lanka. As well as frescoes, the caves contain more than 100 statues of Buddha including a vast 14-metre-long reclining Buddha – there is an abundance of beauty here and it makes a serene end to your trip.

Bentota - ATV bike adventure with hiking and kayaking

Sri Lanka's Elephant Rock and forested hills will be your backdrop for this action-packed day. You'll rumble along Sri Lanka's first ATV trail, hike through the forest to reach vantage points and tuck into a typical lunch. Then complete it all with some chilled-out kayaking in rock pools.After a quick briefing on the terrain and things to expect, you'll set off a forest hike that takes you through caves and to panoramic points. You'll reach the lookout at Elephant Rock, where on one side you'll oversee Colombo and city life and on the other the Central and Sabaragamuwa mountainous areas.Afterwards, you'll pick up the speed on a guided ATV ride along a trail through forested land, after which it's time for a breather and a buffet lunch – served the typical way wrapped in a lotus or banana leaf. Finally, you'll have the chance to kayak over pools in complete serenity and relax with a cup of tea or coffee.

Galle - Yala safari and Galle two-day tour

This two-day tour ticks off everything you've come to expect from Sri Lanka – from animal sanctuaries to ancient temples. Explore the walled city of Galle, visit a turtle hatchery and discover Yala National Park and Udawale elephant transit home. Half-board accommodation is included.

Tangalle - Mirissa Whale Watching Tour

Between November and April, the seas off Mirissa are absolutely brimming with whales and dolphins – and this cruise offers you the chance to see them basking and cavorting in the Indian Ocean. As well as dolphins, blue, killer and sperm whales can be spotted off southern Sri Lanka. You'll also enjoy some free time on Unawatuna beach.You'll head out on a trip to catch a glimpse of these huge creatures, known to take residence off southern Sri Lanka at this time of year. Keep an eye out for any spurts of water in the distance – a sign that one of the whales is near. And you can hear them a mile off, as their songs can reach almost 200 decibels – that's louder than a jumbo jet.On the way back to port, you might encounter pods of dolphins racing with the boat. Back on dry land, lunch will be served, and after there's time to chill out on Unawatuna beach – kick back and relax or go for a dip.

Negombo - Sinharaja Forest Reserve hike with a local guide

It says a lot that in a country with such a rich variety of flora and fauna, Sinharaja Forest Reserve is both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a Biosphere Reserve. That's because as the island's last viable area of primary tropical rainforest, it is home to almost two-thirds of its endemic trees.

Negombo - Wilpattu National Park lakes and wildlife safari

Its name means the ‘Land of Lakes' and Wilpattu National Park really does live up to its billing. Occupying a large swathe of northwestern Sri Lanka, it is famous for its varied wildlife and more than 50 lakes. You'll hop on a 4x4 vehicle and go on safari through the park, with the chance to spot wild animals such as leopards and water buffalo.On your way Wilpattu, we stop at Puttalam lagoon – an expanse of mangrove forest, seagrass and salt marshes. Then, in the park, you'll be able to soak up the peace and tranquillity of Sri Lanka's largest national park – it's so big and densely forested that its vast wilderness has a primeval feel to it.Wilpattu is characterised by its string of ‘villus' – natural basins filled with rainwater. These sand-rimmed depressions are a magnet for thirsty wildlife and among the best places to spot sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, axis deer and, with a bit of luck, the endangered and elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Other species that call Wilpattu home include owls, eagles and painted storks.

Negombo - Minneriya National Park wildlife safari

Located in the heart of Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park is a haven for wildlife with a mix of landscapes ranging from wetlands and grasslands to dry tropical forest. You'll head on safari with the chance to spot the hundreds of species that roam freely through the park.After a morning journey through the heartland of Sri Lanka, you'll stop to top up your energy reserves with lunch before heading into Minneriya National Park. Expect to be enchanted by herds of elephants – the star attraction for many – as well as monkeys as you traverse through grasslands and wetlands. More than 70 species of butterflies and 24 species of animals are also attracted to the grass fields on the edge of the reservoir.There are also resident and migrant birds – more than 150 types – and once you reach the park's rocky outcrop, you'll encounter many reptiles. What's more, the park is home to Sri Lankan sambar deer, Asian and Bengal water monitors and many more wild creatures.

Galle - Kandy day tour by train

A train ride through the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka is one of the most scintillating ways to discover the country. You'll trundle through the verdant hills to discover the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, as well as a few other green delights on this full day tour.A scenic train ride through the Central Highlands sets the tone for a great day of exploration. Watch the rolling hills, tea plantations and lush wilderness pass as you make tracks towards Kandy. Once you're there, it's off to the Temple of the Tooth Relic – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's Sri Lanka's most sacred temple, and the complex also includes a royal palace.And you can also look forward to visits to a botanical garden, a tea plantation and factory in Giragama, and a spice garden in Mawanella. What's more, lunch is included.

Tangalle - Galle walking tour – Sri Lanka’s hidden gem

Galle epitomises Sri Lanka's multicultural history more than any other city. Book this small-group trip to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasting an exotic mix of architecture.

Negombo - Negombo Dutch Canal Boat Cruise

A traditional way to explore Sri Lanka. You'll visit a Hindu Temple and Dutch Fort in Negombo before trying your hand at haggling in the fish market, then you'll hop on a train and then embark on a cruise on the Dutch Canal, admiring nature, fishermen's homes and more.It's a spiritual start to the day at the Hindu Temple. Learn all about its history and see how different cultures combine in Sri Lanka. You'll also visit the historic Dutch Fort and fish market, then take a train ride to the canal start point – the original way to travel in Sri Lanka.Hop aboard a colourful barge and take off on a journey along the Dutch Canal, whose history goes back to the 19th century. You'll get to know everything about its use through history and admire fishing villages, rainbow-coloured flowerbeds and painted boats that pass you by. Take a break for tea and spot all the birds feeding in the wetlands, soaking up the lush green scenery as you go.

Bentota - Kandy, Sigiriya and Dambulla two-day tour

Three UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 48 hours. As calling cards go, few can beat this history-drenched two-day tour of Kandy, Sigiriya and Dambulla in central Sri Lanka. You'll visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the Rock Temple and the ‘Lion Rock'. Half-board overnight accommodation and lunches included.

Galle - Kandy day tour with temple of the Tooth Relic visit

Cultural hotspot Kandy, the last capital of a pre-colonial Sri Lankan kingdom, is a must-visit. As well as touring the city, you'll also visit a spice garden, a tea plantation and botanical gardens. Aashvi, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Kandy's most famous and magnificent temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, one of the most revered artifacts in Buddhism. The temple complex is a tranquil contrast to the city itself, which is a hive of activity with tree-lined streets crammed with hawkers, tuk-tuks, and vintage buses.'It's almost non-stop action on this cultural tour. As you weave through the central highlands, you'll stop at a fragrant spice garden in Mawanella and a tea plantation and factory – for a proper cuppa of Ceylon tea – in Giragama. The sight of undulating hills covered in row after row of tea plants is one of the most emblematic images of Sri Lanka. Aashvi adds, ‘Tea is the world's favourite drink if you discount water, with the highest consumption of any beverage. Good quality tea like that found in Sri Lanka contains a high level of polyphenol, which is a health-promoting antioxidant.'As part of your city tour of Kandy, you'll visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic temple – a UNESCO World Heritage Site that's home to Buddha's tooth – and the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which are home to more than 4,000 species of plants. To make the day extra special, a traditional lunch is included.

Negombo - Colombo city tour

Like four cities in one, Colombo is a grand mix of colonial architecture, verdant cricket greens and gleaming skyscrapers. Discovering all its contrasts, you'll visit the bustling shopping district of Pettah and the British monuments of the Fort area as well as Galle Face and the Cinnamon Gardens – all the must-sees of Sri Lanka's capital.Boasting countless monuments, museums and architectural wonders, this Colombo city tour is jam-packed. Throughout the day, you'll see sights like the Buddhist Gangaramaya Temple, Wolvendaal Church and the impressive Independence Square. You'll call by plenty more interesting places too.Drop in at the Fort area and tour elegant boulevards and buildings that hark back to the days of British rule. Then, at Galle Face, you'll see kids play cricket on the beach and view the mansions of Cinnamon Gardens. The vibrant Pettah district is famed for its bazaar and Dutch colonial architecture – pick up some souvenirs before rounding off with views across the Indian Ocean at the Galle Face Green and hotel.

Galle - Sri Lankan Farm and Spice Traditions Tour with Tuk Tuk ride

The Agro Park Millaniya is a great spot to enjoy the true hospitality of rural Sri Lanka while absorbing the sights and sounds of a typical village. As well as exploring this award-winning integrated farm, you'll also visit a Buddhist temple and go on a countryside tuk-tuk ride. As our expert local guide, Kasun says, ‘It's fun and interesting to learn so much about Sri Lanka's traditional agriculture and gastronomy in one location. I am always proud to watch guests discover and taste different local products. The little savoury snacks are a personal favourite.'On your way to the village, take time out to gather your thoughts in a historic Buddhist temple while admiring its artworks, rock carvings and other religious artefacts. Next, hop into a tuk-tuk for a rip-roaring ride through paddy fields and tropical countryside. Then, observe the local cinnamon-making process. You'll also visit Sri Lanka's largest banana gene bank, have a look around a pineapple plantation, and experience toddy tapping.There will be a chance to sample Kasun's favourite traditional snacks and you'll also get to see how coconut oil is produced. And it wouldn't be a proper Sri Lankan countryside experience without some tea picking. To round it all off, feast on a traditional curry and rice lunch, made extra special because many of the ingredients are grown on the farm itself. This tour is a wonderful opportunity to experience local traditions and immerse yourself in the rural culture of Sri Lanka – a great day out.