5 Best DAY TOUR Options in Sri Lanka

Destination:

Sri Lanka

Type of Tour:

Pre-made

Duration:

One Day Tours

Contact:

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Short on time but want to experience the very best of Sri Lanka? Our carefully designed day tours from Colombo combine adventure, culture, wildlife, and coastal charm — all within comfortable driving distance. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family, or small group, we have the perfect one-day escape for you.

Option 01: Kitulgala - White Water Rafting

Drive time from Colombo: 2.5 – 3 hours
Recommended departure time: 6:30 AM – 7:00 AM
Time required for activities: 3 – 4 hours
Estimated arrival back in Colombo: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Best for: Adventure seekers, teens, active travelers

Surrounded by rainforest and the scenic Kelani River, Kitulgala is Sri Lanka’s top adventure destination and perfect for those looking for an energetic day outdoors.

Highlights of the Day

White water rafting (beginner-friendly rapids with professional guides)
River confidence jumps
Waterfall trekking
Jungle walks & nature exploration
Optional bird watching

Rafting is suitable for beginners and first-time adventurers.

Recommended age: 10+ (depending on river conditions)
Not ideal for: Very young children or guests seeking a relaxed pace.

Option 02: Pinnawala and Kandy: Elephants + Cultural Heritage

Drive time from Colombo: 2 – 3.5 hours
Recommended departure time: 7:00 AM
Time required for activities: 4 – 5 hours
Estimated arrival back in Colombo: 7:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Best for: Families, cultural travelers, all age groups

This popular day tour combines wildlife encounters with Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage in the hill capital region.

Highlights of the Day

Visit the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawala
Watch elephants bathing in the river
Explore Kandy city
Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Scenic views around Kandy Lake
Optional cultural dance performance
Optional spice garden visit

This tour offers a relaxed sightseeing experience with minimal physical activity.

Recommended age: Suitable for all ages, including children and seniors.
Ideal for: First-time visitors wanting a balanced wildlife and culture experience.

Option 03: Bentota and Galle: Coastal Escape + Colonial Charm

Drive time from Colombo: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
Recommended departure time: 8:00 AM
Time required for activities: 4 – 5 hours
Estimated arrival back in Colombo: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Best for: Couples, families, relaxed travelers

Experience Sri Lanka’s southern coastline with golden beaches, mangrove river safaris, and colonial charm.

Highlights of the Day

Madu River boat safari through mangroves
Turtle hatchery visit
Relaxation at Bentota beach
Explore the historic Galle Fort
Boutique shopping & café hopping
Scenic coastal photography spots

This tour is ideal for guests who prefer a relaxed pace with a combination of nature and history.

Recommended age: Suitable for all age groups.
Ideal for: Couples, families with children, and seniors.

Option 04: Ridiyagama Safari Park: Drive-Through Wildlife Experience

Drive time from Colombo: 3.5 – 4 hours
Recommended departure time: 6:00 AM
Time required for activities: 2 – 3 hours
Estimated arrival back in Colombo: 6:30 PM – 7:30 PM
Best for: Families with children, wildlife lovers, relaxed safari experience

Located in the Hambantota region, Ridiyagama Safari Park offers a drive-through safari experience where animals roam freely in large, open enclosures.

Highlights of the Day

African lion zone
Elephant zone
Deer, zebra & ostrich sightings
Close-up wildlife photography opportunities
Comfortable vehicle-based safari experience

Unlike national park safaris, this experience allows closer viewing in a controlled environment, making it ideal for families and younger children.

Recommended age: Suitable for all ages
Ideal for: Families with small children and guests who prefer an easy wildlife experience without long jeep rides.

Option 05: Yala National Park: Wild Safari Adventure

Recommended departure time: 9.00 AM
Time required for activities: 3 – 4 hours (afternoon safari)
Estimated arrival back in Colombo: 10.00 PM – 10:30 PM
Best for: Authentic wildlife experience, leopard spotting, nature enthusiasts.

Yala National Park is Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserve, known for its high density of leopards and diverse ecosystems.

Highlights of the Day

Jeep safari with experienced tracker
Chance to spot leopards
Elephants, sloth bears & crocodiles
Rich birdlife
Scenic lagoons & dry forest landscapes

This is a true wilderness safari experience with natural terrain and unpredictable wildlife sightings — making every visit unique.

Recommended age: 6+ (due to long travel and jeep safari conditions)
Not ideal for: Elderly guests uncomfortable with long drives or bumpy jeep rides.

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Pick up and drop off
Flexible timings
Private luxury car (air-conditioned)
Private English speaking Chauffeur
Driver meals
Tolls, fuel & local insurance for the vehicle

The sightseeing entrance charges and activity fees
Guest meals
Personal expenses
Air-tickets NOT included
Camera & video permits
Travel Insurance is NOT included
Guide/driver tips

*Booking information*

Once booking details and passport copies are submitted by you, we will go ahead with the booking process. At this stage, we require a 50% payment from you. A booking confirmation will reach you after 48 hours of making the payment. The remaining payment is required, seven days prior to the tour start date. Then you may go ahead with applying for Visa.

*Cancellation Policy*

Once the passport copies are shared, your booking is considered as confirmed. There will be no refund for Cancellations made within less than 30 days from the start of a tour and for No-show.