Apple VacationsLogo
The JourneysDestinationsStoriesAbout
Checking...
Apple VacationsLogo

Tailor-made luxury journeys, cultural discoveries, family holidays and curated travel experiences in Sri Lanka and beyond.

Explore

Travel CollectionsTravel DirectoryThe JourneysDestinations

Information

ContactStoriesFAQPrivacy PolicyTerms and Conditions
License 1License 2License 3License 4

© 2026 Apple Vacation. All rights reserved.

Crafted By TRIP COMMIT UK

Feel the dream

Sri Lanka

Grand Sri Lanka Scenic Rail Expedition

Scenic Train Journeys • Scenic Train Journey • Beach Leisure • Soft Adventure

Grand Sri Lanka Scenic Rail Expedition

Best Time

November – April

From

USD 1,500

Duration

12D / 11N

Enquire Now

Handpicked Itineraries • Tailor Your Experience

Discover the Soul of Sri Lanka

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's vibrant capital, scenic hill country, and tropical coastline. Travel aboard one of the world's most beautiful railway routes through lush tea plantations and mountain landscapes. Discover ancient heritage, charming highland towns, iconic viewpoints, golden beaches, and historic coastal cities while enjoying comfortable accommodations and memorable cultural experiences.

Journey Route

Itinerary

Day-by-day journey

1

Day 1

Day 1 – Arrival in Colombo

Colombo

⌄

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to your hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring Independence Square, Galle Face Green, and the city's vibrant shopping districts. Enjoy a relaxed evening by the oceanfront promenade.

Accommodation

Galadari Hotel • Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams • Shangri-La Colombo

Meals

Dinner

Travel Time

45.00 minutes

Distance

35.00 KM

2

Day 2

Day 2 – Colombo City Exploration

Colombo

⌄

Visit Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market, Colombo National Museum, and Lotus Tower. Experience the blend of colonial architecture and modern development before returning to your hotel.

Accommodation

Galadari Hotel • Shangri-La Colombo • Cinnamon Life at City of Dreams

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

1.30 hours

Distance

25.00 KM

3

Day 3

Day 3 – Colombo to Kandy

Kandy

⌄

Travel to Kandy, Sri Lanka's cultural capital. Visit Kandy Lake and enjoy panoramic views from the city viewpoint. Experience the charming atmosphere of this UNESCO-listed destination.

Accommodation

Santani Wellness Kandy • The Golden Crown Hotel • Earl's Regent Kandy

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

3.30 hours

Distance

120.00 KM

4

Day 4

Day 4 – Kandy Heritage Tour

Kandy

⌄

Explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic, Royal Botanical Gardens, and local cultural attractions. Witness traditional Sri Lankan heritage and enjoy an evening cultural dance performance.

Accommodation

Santani Wellness Kandy • The Golden Crown Hotel • Earl's Regent Kandy

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

1.30 hours

Distance

20.00 KM

5

Day 5

Day 5 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya

⌄

Journey through winding mountain roads to Nuwara Eliya. Visit tea estates, tea factories, Gregory Lake, and colonial-era landmarks surrounded by cool highland scenery.

Accommodation

The Blackpool Hotel • Camellia Lake Resort • 88th Nuwara Eliya

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

2.50 hours

Distance

80.00 KM

6

Day 6

Day 6 – Nuwara Eliya Exploration

Nuwara Eliya

⌄

Enjoy visits to Hakgala Botanical Garden, tea plantations, waterfalls, and Gregory Lake. Experience the refreshing climate and stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka's tea country.

Accommodation

88th Nuwara Eliya • The Blackpool Hotel • Camellia Lake Resort

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

1.30 hours

Distance

30.00 KM

7

Day 7

Day 7 – Scenic Train Journey to Ella

Ella

⌄

Board the iconic scenic train from Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya) to Ella. Pass through misty mountains, tea gardens, tunnels, and picturesque valleys before arriving in Ella.

Accommodation

98 Acres Resort & Spa • EKHO Ella • Oak Ray La Ella Breeze

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

4.00 hours

Distance

65.00 KM

8

Day 8

Day 8 – Ella Sightseeing

Ella

⌄

Visit Little Adam's Peak, Nine Arches Bridge, Ravana Falls, and scenic viewpoints. Enjoy spectacular mountain scenery and some of Sri Lanka's most photographed landscapes.

Accommodation

98 Acres Resort & Spa • EKHO Ella • Oak Ray La Ella Breeze

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

45.00 minutes

Distance

15.00 KM

9

Day 9

Day 9 – Ella to Bentota

Bentota

⌄

Travel from the highlands to Sri Lanka's southwest coast. Relax on Bentota's golden beaches and enjoy riverside scenery upon arrival.

Accommodation

Taj Bentota Resort & Spa • Cinnamon Bey Beruwala • Cinnamon Bentota Beach - Signature Selection

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

6.00 hours

Distance

220.00 KM

10

Day 10

Day 10 – Bentota to Galle

Galle

⌄

Travel along the scenic coastal route to Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, Dutch architecture, lighthouse, boutique streets, and oceanfront cafes.

Accommodation

Le Grand Galle • Amari Galle • Urban Galle Villa

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

1.55 hours

Distance

55.00 KM

11

Day 11

Day 11 – South Coast Leisure

South Coast

⌄

Discover nearby beaches including Unawatuna and Mirissa, enjoy optional whale watching (seasonal), relax by the sea, or explore charming coastal villages.

Accommodation

Le Grand Galle • Amari Galle • Radisson Blu Resort Galle

Meals

Breakfast • Dinner

Travel Time

1.30 hours

Distance

40.00 KM

12

Day 12

Day 12 – Departure

Colombo Airport

⌄

After breakfast, transfer to Colombo International Airport. Conclude your memorable rail and coastal journey through Sri Lanka's most beautiful regions.

Meals

Breakfast

Travel Time

3.50 hours

Distance

155.00 KM

Route Summary

Arrival Colombo → Kandy → Nuwara Eliya → Ella → Bentota → Galle → South Coast - Departure Colombo

Experience Details

How We
Plan Your Journey

Perfect for travelers seeking a curated luxury escape shaped around destinations, stays, attractions, activities and personal travel style.

Attractions
⌄
Bentota BeachBentota River SafariColombo National MuseumColombo Port City PromenadeElla RockGalle Face GreenGregory Lake ParkGalle FortIndependence SquareLotus TowerLittle Adam’s PeakMoon PlainsNine Arches BridgeKandy View PointTemple of the Sacred Tooth RelicVictoria ParkRoyal Palace of Kandy
Activities
⌄
Banana boat rideBentota beachBentota River safariColombo Lotus TowerElla Rock hikeGangaramaya TempleGalle Fort walking tourHigh tea experienceKandy cultural dance showNuwara Eliya city & Gregory Lake
Hotels
⌄
Galadari HotelCinnamon Life at City of DreamsShangri-La ColomboSantani Wellness KandyThe Golden Crown HotelEarl's Regent KandyThe Blackpool HotelCamellia Lake Resort88th Nuwara Eliya98 Acres Resort & SpaEKHO EllaOak Ray La Ella BreezeTaj Bentota Resort & SpaCinnamon Bey BeruwalaCinnamon Bentota Beach - Signature SelectionLe Grand GalleAmari GalleUrban Galle VillaRadisson Blu Resort Galle
Highlights
⌄
1. Explore Colombo's vibrant colonial and modern attractions.2. Experience the world-famous scenic train journey through Sri Lanka's highlands.3. Visit tea plantations and misty mountains of Nuwara Eliya.4. Discover Ella's iconic viewpoints, bridges, and waterfalls.5. Relax on Sri Lanka's beautiful South Coast beaches and heritage towns.
Inclusions
⌄
Services of a professional English-speaking chauffeur guideAirport pickup and departure transfersAll sightseeing and excursions mentioned in the itineraryTrasnportAccommodation in hotels/resortsComplimentary bottled water during transfers and excursions24/7 on-tour assistance and customer supportWater bottleMeet and greet assistance at the airport upon arrivalScenic train journeys with reserved seats
Cancellation Policy
⌄
Cancellations made within 30 days of arrival may incur cancellation charges.Free cancellation for hotel reservations up to 30 days prior to arrival, subject to hotel policies.Payments can be made via bank transfer, online transfer, or other approved payment methods.50% advance payment is required at the time of booking confirmation for Sri Lanka arrangements.Any bank charges or transfer fees should be borne by the guest or agent.Train tickets, safari jeep bookings, hot air balloon rides, and other pre-booked experiences may carry separate cancellation fees.Final travel vouchers and confirmations will be issued after receiving the complete payment.• Travel durations may vary depending on traffic and road conditions.Refund processing timelines may vary depending on hotels, service providers, and banking procedures.• Comfortable clothing and sun protection recommended.

Trip Blueprint

Duration12D / 11N
Travel StylePrivate Tailor-Made
Starts InColombo
Ends InSouth Coast
Route Path

Colombo⟶Kandy⟶Nuwara Eliya⟶Ella⟶Bentota⟶Galle⟶South Coast⟶Colombo Airport

&

Tailor-made

Make This
Itinerary
Yours

Enquire Now

Inspire Me

Your Dream Trip Starts Here

Step into the journey through our curated gallery collection. Click any image to view in full screen.

Gallery 1
Gallery 2

Start Planning

Make this journey yours.

Tell us how you want to travel and our team will tailor this curated experience around your pace, dates, style and preferences.

Enquire NowExplore More Journeys