Our journey covered Sigiriya, Rivestone, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Yala, Mirissa, and Colombo, and every destination was thoughtfully organized. Chin consistently provided excellent recommendations and introduced us to special places we would never have discovered on our own. Traveling with him was completely stress-free and truly enjoyable. I wholeheartedly recommend Chin to anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka. More than just a guide, he became a trusted companion and friend who played a major role in making our holiday so memorable. ________________________________________ Travel Route in Sri Lanka Day 1 – Arrival & Sigiriya Upon our arrival at Colombo (CMB) Airport, Chin welcomed us warmly with a traditional garland, instantly making us feel at home. After our morning arrival, we drove directly to Sigiriya, where we stayed for two nights. During our time there, we explored the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, climbed Pidurangala Rock for stunning views, visited the Dambulla Cave Temple, enjoyed a traditional village tour, and relaxed with a soothing Ayurvedic herbal massage, which was a truly wonderful experience.
Day 3 – Rivestone On Chin’s recommendation, we traveled to Rivestone and spent one peaceful night there. The cool climate, misty mountains, and breathtaking scenery made it one of the most beautiful and tranquil stops of our journey—a real hidden gem.
Day 4 – Kandy Our next destination was Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. We visited the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, strolled through the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, enjoyed a vibrant cultural dance performance, admired the city from the Kandy viewpoint, and learned about local craftsmanship at a gem factory.
Day 5 – Nuwara Eliya (Tea Country) We then traveled to Nuwara Eliya, famous for its tea plantations and cool climate. Along the way, we stopped at Ambuluwawa Tower, toured a tea factory, enjoyed breathtaking landscapes, and visited the beautiful Ramboda Waterfall. We spent the night in Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by fresh air and greenery. Day 6 – Horton Plains & Scenic Train to Ella Early in the morning, we explored Horton Plains National Park, experiencing its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Later, we boarded the iconic train from Nanu Oya to Ella, a scenic journey of about three hours with unforgettable views of hills, tea plantations, and valleys.
Day 6 & 7 – Ella We spent two relaxing nights in Ella, one of the most charming places in Sri Lanka, with a perfect climate and stunning surroundings. We visited Lipton’s Seat, the famous Nine Arch Bridge, climbed Mini Adam’s Peak, and enjoyed swimming in a small hidden waterfall. Ella’s natural beauty and calm atmosphere made it truly magical.
Day 8 – Yala National Park On Day 8, we traveled from Ella to Yala. Along the way, Chin stopped at the remarkable Buduruwagala Temple, an ancient rock-carving site hidden in nature. In the afternoon, we experienced an exciting Yala safari, where we saw a wide variety of wildlife, including the unforgettable sight of a leopard.
Day 9 – Mirissa (Whale Watching) Early the next morning, we left for Mirissa to join a whale-watching tour. The boat departed at 6:30 AM, and we were incredibly lucky to see a majestic blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, along with many playful dolphins. After resting at the hotel, we visited Coconut Tree Hill in the evening to watch a beautiful sunset over the ocean. Day 10 – Galle & Colombo In the morning, we departed Mirissa and stopped at the historic Galle Fort, followed by a visit to a turtle hatchery, where we learned about sea turtle conservation. We then continued to Colombo, exploring Galle Face Green, One Galle Face Mall, the Red Mosque, Independence Square, and Gangaramaya Temple. We spent our final night in the capital.
Day 11 – Departure On our last day, Chin took us back to Colombo Airport for our departure. Saying goodbye was emotional, as Chin had become much more than a guide—he was a caring companion who helped create memories we will cherish forever.
Destination – Sri Lanka Sigiriya Sigiriya is one of the most iconic places in Sri Lanka, famous for the ancient Lion Rock Fortress. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s royal history. Nearby attractions like Pidurangala Rock, Dambulla Cave Temple, village tours, and Ayurvedic treatments make Sigiriya a perfect cultural and nature destination.
Rivestone Rivestone is a quiet and less crowded mountain area known for its cool climate, misty hills, and stunning viewpoints. It is a hidden gem with beautiful landscapes and peaceful surroundings, ideal for nature lovers and relaxation.
Kandy
Kandy is a cultural city surrounded by hills and is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. The city also offers beautiful gardens, cultural dance performances, scenic viewpoints, and insight into Sri Lanka’s traditions and gemstones.
Nuwara Eliya Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is located in Sri Lanka’s tea country. It is known for its cool weather, green tea plantations, waterfalls, and colonial-style buildings. The area is calm, fresh, and very scenic.
Horton Plains National Park Horton Plains is a protected nature reserve famous for its open grasslands, cloud forests, and wildlife. It offers peaceful hiking trails and stunning natural views, especially in the early morning.
Ella Ella is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in Sri Lanka, with a perfect climate that is not too hot and not too cold. Surrounded by mountains, tea plantations, and waterfalls, Ella is famous for Nine Arch Bridge, Mini Adam’s Peak, and scenic viewpoints. It is ideal for nature, hiking, and relaxation.
Yala National Park Yala is Sri Lanka’s most famous national park and is well known for its wildlife safaris. It is one of the best places in the country to see leopards, as well as elephants, crocodiles, birds, and many other animals in their natural habitat.
Mirissa Mirissa is a beautiful beach town on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is especially famous for whale watching, where visitors can see blue whales and dolphins. Mirissa also offers lovely beaches, relaxing vibes, and stunning sunsets at places like Coconut Tree Hill.
Galle Galle is a historic coastal city best known for Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort has charming streets, colonial architecture, ocean views, and a rich history. Nearby turtle hatcheries show important conservation efforts to protect sea turtles.
Colombo Colombo is the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka, blending modern life with history and culture. Highlights include Galle Face Green, shopping malls, historic mosques and temples, and lively city streets. It is a great place to experience the urban side of Sri Lanka before departure.
Tour Driver/Guide Recommendation – Sri Lanka
Chin (Chinthaka) is truly an exceptional driver-guide, and our 11-day journey across Sri Lanka with him was nothing short of unforgettable. From the very first moment to the final farewell, Chin demonstrated professionalism, kindness, and a genuine passion for what he does. He is a highly skilled and careful driver, always making us feel safe and comfortable. Chin planned our itinerary seamlessly, while remaining flexible and attentive to our preferences. His deep knowledge of Sri Lankan culture, history, and local life enriched our experience and allowed us to see the country in a meaningful and authentic way.
Driver-Guide Chin – What Makes Him Special
One of the best things about traveling with Chin is how well he takes care of every detail. Throughout our journey, Chin arranged train tickets, safari bookings, and many other activities with great efficiency and reliability. Everything was well organized, smooth, and stress-free. Although we initially booked our accommodations ourselves, we truly believe it is much better to let Chin handle all bookings. During our stay in Yala, we had a bad experience with a hotel we had booked independently. Chin immediately stepped in and arranged a much better hotel for us at a very reasonable price, even better than what we had originally booked. His hotel recommendations were excellent, offering better comfort, service, and value for money. Because of this experience, we strongly recommend future travelers to trust Chin with all hotel arrangements—you will get good-quality hotels at fair prices and avoid unnecessary problems. Chin’s vehicle was another highlight of our journey. We traveled in a very clean, new, and comfortable large sedan, which made long drives pleasant and relaxing. He also owns several vehicles, including mini coaches, making him suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, or larger groups. Beyond his professional skills, Chin is a genuinely kind and friendly person. He shared photos of his previous clients and experiences, which showed his long-standing experience and the trust people have in him. We spent many hours talking during our drives, and he always communicated in a respectful, professional, and warm manner. His passion for his work and his care for his guests truly stand out. Chin is not just a driver-guide—he is a reliable travel partner who genuinely wants his guests to have the best possible experience in Sri Lanka. Traveling with him gives peace of mind, comfort, and unforgettable memories. Our Accommodations During the Trip
During our journey across Sri Lanka, we stayed at a variety of comfortable and well-located hotels, each offering a unique experience: • Sigiriya – Hotel Sigiriya A beautifully located hotel very close to Sigiriya Lion Rock, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature and convenient access to the main attractions. • Rivestone – The Grand Rivestone A lovely mountain hotel with stunning views and a cool, quiet environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Rivestone. • Kandy – Thilanka Hotel A comfortable hotel with scenic views over Kandy, well located for visiting the city’s main cultural attractions. • Nuwara Eliya – Lyndan Grove A charming and cozy property set in the cool climate of Nuwara Eliya, providing a calm and refreshing stay in the heart of tea country. • Ella – Ella Gap Panorama A hotel with breathtaking views of the Ella Gap, offering peaceful surroundings and a perfect base for exploring Ella’s beautiful landscapes. • Yala – Elephant Reach Hotel A conveniently located hotel near Yala National Park, suitable for safari access and wildlife experiences. • Mirissa – Paradise Mirissa A comfortable beachside hotel close to the ocean, ideal for relaxation after whale watching and enjoying Mirissa’s coastal charm. • Colombo – Grand Bell Hotel A modern and stylish hotel in Colombo, offering comfort and convenience for city sightseeing and the final night before departure.
Contact Details – Driver Guide Chin If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka and would like to contact Chin directly, he is very responsive and easy to communicate with. WhatsApp: +94 77 943 9668 Email: chinthaka0099@gmail.com / ceylonasians@gmail.com ceylonasia.co.uk
We communicated with Chin mainly through WhatsApp, and he always replied quickly, clearly, and professionally. From the first message to the end of our journey, communication was smooth and reassuring. I highly recommend reaching out to Chin directly if you want a well-organized, comfortable, and memorable travel experience in Sri Lanka.
I hope this post supports and guides future travelers who are planning to explore Sri Lanka.
I wholeheartedly recommend Chin to anyone planning a trip to Sri Lanka. More than just a guide, he became a trusted companion and friend who played a major role in making our holiday so memorable.
________________________________________
Travel Route in Sri Lanka
Day 1 – Arrival & Sigiriya
Upon our arrival at Colombo (CMB) Airport, Chin welcomed us warmly with a traditional garland, instantly making us feel at home. After our morning arrival, we drove directly to Sigiriya, where we stayed for two nights.
During our time there, we explored the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, climbed Pidurangala Rock for stunning views, visited the Dambulla Cave Temple, enjoyed a traditional village tour, and relaxed with a soothing Ayurvedic herbal massage, which was a truly wonderful experience.
Day 3 – Rivestone
On Chin’s recommendation, we traveled to Rivestone and spent one peaceful night there. The cool climate, misty mountains, and breathtaking scenery made it one of the most beautiful and tranquil stops of our journey—a real hidden gem.
Day 4 – Kandy
Our next destination was Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. We visited the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, strolled through the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, enjoyed a vibrant cultural dance performance, admired the city from the Kandy viewpoint, and learned about local craftsmanship at a gem factory.
Day 5 – Nuwara Eliya (Tea Country)
We then traveled to Nuwara Eliya, famous for its tea plantations and cool climate. Along the way, we stopped at Ambuluwawa Tower, toured a tea factory, enjoyed breathtaking landscapes, and visited the beautiful Ramboda Waterfall. We spent the night in Nuwara Eliya, surrounded by fresh air and greenery.
Day 6 – Horton Plains & Scenic Train to Ella
Early in the morning, we explored Horton Plains National Park, experiencing its natural beauty and peaceful atmosphere. Later, we boarded the iconic train from Nanu Oya to Ella, a scenic journey of about three hours with unforgettable views of hills, tea plantations, and valleys.
Day 6 & 7 – Ella
We spent two relaxing nights in Ella, one of the most charming places in Sri Lanka, with a perfect climate and stunning surroundings. We visited Lipton’s Seat, the famous Nine Arch Bridge, climbed Mini Adam’s Peak, and enjoyed swimming in a small hidden waterfall. Ella’s natural beauty and calm atmosphere made it truly magical.
Day 8 – Yala National Park
On Day 8, we traveled from Ella to Yala. Along the way, Chin stopped at the remarkable Buduruwagala Temple, an ancient rock-carving site hidden in nature. In the afternoon, we experienced an exciting Yala safari, where we saw a wide variety of wildlife, including the unforgettable sight of a leopard.
Day 9 – Mirissa (Whale Watching)
Early the next morning, we left for Mirissa to join a whale-watching tour. The boat departed at 6:30 AM, and we were incredibly lucky to see a majestic blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, along with many playful dolphins. After resting at the hotel, we visited Coconut Tree Hill in the evening to watch a beautiful sunset over the ocean.
Day 10 – Galle & Colombo
In the morning, we departed Mirissa and stopped at the historic Galle Fort, followed by a visit to a turtle hatchery, where we learned about sea turtle conservation. We then continued to Colombo, exploring Galle Face Green, One Galle Face Mall, the Red Mosque, Independence Square, and Gangaramaya Temple. We spent our final night in the capital.
Day 11 – Departure
On our last day, Chin took us back to Colombo Airport for our departure. Saying goodbye was emotional, as Chin had become much more than a guide—he was a caring companion who helped create memories we will cherish forever.
Destination – Sri Lanka
Sigiriya
Sigiriya is one of the most iconic places in Sri Lanka, famous for the ancient Lion Rock Fortress. Climbing to the top offers breathtaking views and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s royal history. Nearby attractions like Pidurangala Rock, Dambulla Cave Temple, village tours, and Ayurvedic treatments make Sigiriya a perfect cultural and nature destination.
Rivestone
Rivestone is a quiet and less crowded mountain area known for its cool climate, misty hills, and stunning viewpoints. It is a hidden gem with beautiful landscapes and peaceful surroundings, ideal for nature lovers and relaxation.
Kandy
Kandy is a cultural city surrounded by hills and is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most important Buddhist sites in the world. The city also offers beautiful gardens, cultural dance performances, scenic viewpoints, and insight into Sri Lanka’s traditions and gemstones.
Nuwara Eliya
Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England,” is located in Sri Lanka’s tea country. It is known for its cool weather, green tea plantations, waterfalls, and colonial-style buildings. The area is calm, fresh, and very scenic.
Horton Plains National Park
Horton Plains is a protected nature reserve famous for its open grasslands, cloud forests, and wildlife. It offers peaceful hiking trails and stunning natural views, especially in the early morning.
Ella
Ella is one of the most beautiful and relaxing places in Sri Lanka, with a perfect climate that is not too hot and not too cold. Surrounded by mountains, tea plantations, and waterfalls, Ella is famous for Nine Arch Bridge, Mini Adam’s Peak, and scenic viewpoints. It is ideal for nature, hiking, and relaxation.
Yala National Park
Yala is Sri Lanka’s most famous national park and is well known for its wildlife safaris. It is one of the best places in the country to see leopards, as well as elephants, crocodiles, birds, and many other animals in their natural habitat.
Mirissa
Mirissa is a beautiful beach town on the south coast of Sri Lanka. It is especially famous for whale watching, where visitors can see blue whales and dolphins. Mirissa also offers lovely beaches, relaxing vibes, and stunning sunsets at places like Coconut Tree Hill.
Galle
Galle is a historic coastal city best known for Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fort has charming streets, colonial architecture, ocean views, and a rich history. Nearby turtle hatcheries show important conservation efforts to protect sea turtles.
Colombo
Colombo is the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka, blending modern life with history and culture. Highlights include Galle Face Green, shopping malls, historic mosques and temples, and lively city streets. It is a great place to experience the urban side of Sri Lanka before departure.
Tour Driver/Guide Recommendation – Sri Lanka
Chin (Chinthaka) is truly an exceptional driver-guide, and our 11-day journey across Sri Lanka with him was nothing short of unforgettable. From the very first moment to the final farewell, Chin demonstrated professionalism, kindness, and a genuine passion for what he does.
He is a highly skilled and careful driver, always making us feel safe and comfortable. Chin planned our itinerary seamlessly, while remaining flexible and attentive to our preferences. His deep knowledge of Sri Lankan culture, history, and local life enriched our experience and allowed us to see the country in a meaningful and authentic way.
Driver-Guide Chin – What Makes Him Special
One of the best things about traveling with Chin is how well he takes care of every detail. Throughout our journey, Chin arranged train tickets, safari bookings, and many other activities with great efficiency and reliability. Everything was well organized, smooth, and stress-free.
Although we initially booked our accommodations ourselves, we truly believe it is much better to let Chin handle all bookings. During our stay in Yala, we had a bad experience with a hotel we had booked independently. Chin immediately stepped in and arranged a much better hotel for us at a very reasonable price, even better than what we had originally booked. His hotel recommendations were excellent, offering better comfort, service, and value for money. Because of this experience, we strongly recommend future travelers to trust Chin with all hotel arrangements—you will get good-quality hotels at fair prices and avoid unnecessary problems.
Chin’s vehicle was another highlight of our journey. We traveled in a very clean, new, and comfortable large sedan, which made long drives pleasant and relaxing. He also owns several vehicles, including mini coaches, making him suitable for solo travelers, couples, families, or larger groups.
Beyond his professional skills, Chin is a genuinely kind and friendly person. He shared photos of his previous clients and experiences, which showed his long-standing experience and the trust people have in him. We spent many hours talking during our drives, and he always communicated in a respectful, professional, and warm manner. His passion for his work and his care for his guests truly stand out.
Chin is not just a driver-guide—he is a reliable travel partner who genuinely wants his guests to have the best possible experience in Sri Lanka. Traveling with him gives peace of mind, comfort, and unforgettable memories.
Our Accommodations During the Trip
During our journey across Sri Lanka, we stayed at a variety of comfortable and well-located hotels, each offering a unique experience:
• Sigiriya – Hotel Sigiriya
A beautifully located hotel very close to Sigiriya Lion Rock, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by nature and convenient access to the main attractions.
• Rivestone – The Grand Rivestone
A lovely mountain hotel with stunning views and a cool, quiet environment, perfect for relaxation and enjoying the natural beauty of Rivestone.
• Kandy – Thilanka Hotel
A comfortable hotel with scenic views over Kandy, well located for visiting the city’s main cultural attractions.
• Nuwara Eliya – Lyndan Grove
A charming and cozy property set in the cool climate of Nuwara Eliya, providing a calm and refreshing stay in the heart of tea country.
• Ella – Ella Gap Panorama
A hotel with breathtaking views of the Ella Gap, offering peaceful surroundings and a perfect base for exploring Ella’s beautiful landscapes.
• Yala – Elephant Reach Hotel
A conveniently located hotel near Yala National Park, suitable for safari access and wildlife experiences.
• Mirissa – Paradise Mirissa
A comfortable beachside hotel close to the ocean, ideal for relaxation after whale watching and enjoying Mirissa’s coastal charm.
• Colombo – Grand Bell Hotel
A modern and stylish hotel in Colombo, offering comfort and convenience for city sightseeing and the final night before departure.
Contact Details – Driver Guide Chin
If you are planning a trip to Sri Lanka and would like to contact Chin directly, he is very responsive and easy to communicate with.
WhatsApp: +94 77 943 9668
Email: chinthaka0099@gmail.com / ceylonasians@gmail.com
ceylonasia.co.uk
We communicated with Chin mainly through WhatsApp, and he always replied quickly, clearly, and professionally. From the first message to the end of our journey, communication was smooth and reassuring.
I highly recommend reaching out to Chin directly if you want a well-organized, comfortable, and memorable travel experience in Sri Lanka.
I hope this post supports and guides future travelers who are planning to explore Sri Lanka.