Introduction
Our review today focuses on an intriguing 6-day tour of Sri Lanka with an all-inclusive Ayurveda Uplift package, offered by Apple Vacations Sri Lanka. This experience promises a careful mix of exploring Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights and unwinding with traditional wellness therapies—making it ideal for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
What immediately catches our eye are the scenic train ride through lush landscapes and the rejuvenating Ayurvedic treatments—two aspects that elevate this trip beyond just sightseeing. On the flip side, the long travel days, especially the 5-6 hour drive from Colombo to Ella, might be tiring for some.
This tour suits those who want a genuine taste of Sri Lanka’s culture, scenery, and healing traditions, all wrapped into a manageable 6-day package. If you’re after a trip that balances exploration with wellness, this could be just the experience you’re looking for.
You can check availability for your dates here:Key Points
- Balanced Itinerary: Combines cultural exploration with wellness days, giving you a full experience.
- Stunning Scenery: Expect breathtaking views at Ravana Falls, Ella, and Sigiriya.
- Cultural Highlights: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Wellness Focus: Enjoy tailored Ayurvedic treatments, massages, herbal steam baths, and yoga.
- Transport & Logistics: Includes scenic train rides, shared transfers, and experienced guides.
- Value for Money: At $1,250, it offers a comprehensive experience, including accommodations, meals, treatments, and transfers.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Kandy.
Starting Point: Colombo or the Airport
The journey begins early, around 6:00 AM, from Colombo or the airport, heading towards Ella. This initial drive of about 5-6 hours is quite a bit, but it’s made more enjoyable with regular stops at some of Sri Lanka’s most photogenic spots. Ravana Falls is the first highlight—an impressive cascade that’s perfect for snapping photos and stretching your legs before the road trip continues.
Expect a relaxed lunch at a local café in Ella, with mountain views that are just as breathtaking as the landscapes you’ll walk through. It’s a good introduction to the natural beauty of the island, setting the tone for the days ahead.
Day 01: Exploring Ella’s Charm
Once in Ella, the focus is on enjoying a manageable series of activities. A short hike to Little Adams Peak will give you sweeping views of the valley—a photo opportunity that’s well worth the climb. The famed Nine Arches Bridge, a favorite with visitors, is next. Watching trains cross this historic structure provides a memorable photo and a taste of Sri Lanka’s railway heritage.
Dinner is at a local restaurant, offering authentic flavors, and accommodations are comfortable enough to unwind after a day of travel and sightseeing. This relaxed start helps you acclimate to the cooler mountain climate and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Day 02: From Ella to Cultural Kandy
After breakfast, the journey continues toward Kandy, passing through the picturesque hill country. A stop in Nuwara Eliya offers a glimpse of colonial architecture and cool climate—an unexpected contrast to the tropical coast. Here, you’ll visit a tea plantation to see the process from leaf to cup, and enjoy a tasting—an experience that highlights Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea industry.
Ramboda Falls makes another scenic stop, allowing for more stunning photographs. In Kandy, the evening stroll around the lake is peaceful, and a traditional Kandyan dance performance provides a lively cultural flavor.
More Great Tours NearbyDay 03: The Sacred Tooth and Sigiriya
The day begins with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic—a key spiritual site for Sri Lankans. Afterward, you’ll ascend the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, renowned for its frescoes and panoramic views. Climbing Sigiriya can be a bit of a workout but offers a sense of accomplishment and insight into ancient engineering.
Following lunch, the Sigiriya Museum rounds out the culture. Later, you check into your Ayurveda resort for an initial consultation. This sets the stage for the wellness days ahead, tailoring treatments to your needs with the guidance of resident Ayurvedic doctors.
Days 04 & 05: Wellness and Rejuvenation
These two days are dedicated to full-body relaxation. Starting each morning with yoga, you’ll then enjoy Ayurvedic therapies—massages, herbal steam baths, and detox treatments—all designed to rejuvenate. The treatments are personalized, promising a sense of renewal by the end.
Guests often note the calming environment of the resort, with some describing the treatments as “tailored to leave you feeling relaxed and revitalized.” It’s an excellent way to counteract the physical toll of travel and enjoy Sri Lanka’s holistic healing traditions.
Day 06: Final Relaxation and Departure
Your last day offers a gentle start with yoga and breakfast, before enjoying the resort facilities or taking a short optional visit to the nearby Dambulla Cave Temple. Check-out is at noon, with transfer arrangements back to Colombo or the airport usually confirmed in advance.
Transportation & Logistics
The tour features comfortable hotel accommodations, scenic train rides, and shared transfers with a knowledgeable guide. The train journey from Kandy to Ella, in particular, is frequently praised as one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful railway experiences, with views of lush tea plantations and rolling hills.
Shared transfers keep costs reasonable, but note that early or late pick-up times are set; flexibility might be limited. The tour is suitable for those who enjoy organized group travel with reliable logistics.
The Value Proposition
At $1,250 per person, this tour packs a lot into six days. Your package includes accommodations with breakfast and dinner, Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatments, yoga sessions, scenic train rides, and knowledgeable guides—all of which contribute to a seamless experience. Additional costs like entrance tickets and some meals are not included, but overall, the package provides good value for the range of activities and comforts offered.
Authentic Experiences Based on Reviews
Many travelers highlight the stunning views—from waterfalls to mountain vistas—and the calming effect of the Ayurvedic treatments. One review mentioned, “The treatments left me relaxed and feeling renewed, a perfect complement to the sightseeing.” Others appreciated the combination of cultural sites and wellness, noting that the itinerary felt balanced and manageable.
Some comments pointed out that the long drives could be tiring, especially for those not accustomed to several hours in a vehicle. However, the scenic stops and the train ride help mitigate this fatigue, turning travel time into part of the experience.
The Sum Up
This 6-day Sri Lanka tour offers a well-rounded option for travelers eager to combine culture, scenery, and wellness in one trip. The itinerary is thoughtfully designed to showcase highlights like Ella’s mountain vistas, Kandy’s spiritual sites, and Sigiriya’s ancient fortress, balanced with relaxing Ayurvedic treatments that leave you feeling refreshed.
It’s especially suited for those who appreciate authentic experiences, scenic landscapes, and holistic healing. The included train ride, personalized treatments, and cultural stops create a sense of connection with Sri Lanka, making it more than just a sightseeing tour.
While the long drives are a consideration, the overall experience’s value—covering diverse landscapes, cultural insights, and wellness—makes it a strong choice for those wanting a tasteful blend of adventure and relaxation.
If you’re after a trip that respects your desire for genuine culture while pampering you with traditional healing, this tour offers a compelling package.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for solo travelers?
Yes, it’s designed for groups, but solo travelers often find the guided experience and shared accommodations welcoming and comfortable.
What is included in the price?
The package covers airport pick-up and drop-off, hotel accommodations with breakfast and dinner, Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatments, yoga sessions, scenic train rides, and an English-speaking guide.
Are meals in the tour included?
Breakfast and dinner are included, while lunch on Days 01 and 02 is not, giving you a chance to explore local eateries.
What activities are optional?
Visits to optional sites like the Dambulla Cave Temple can be arranged if time permits, but most activities are part of the scheduled itinerary.
Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?
The tour is not recommended for pregnant women, people with back, heart, respiratory issues, or mobility problems, due to the physical nature of some activities and treatments.
How strenuous is the Sigiriya climb?
Climbing Sigiriya involves some physical effort but is manageable for most, with the reward of panoramic views and ancient frescoes.
Can I customize this tour?
Changes may be limited; the package is structured to provide a comprehensive experience. However, the Ayurvedic treatments are tailored to individual needs.
This tour offers a thoughtful way to experience Sri Lanka’s natural beauty, rich culture, and healing traditions—perfect for those looking for a meaningful, balanced adventure.
You can check availability for your dates here:More 6-Day Experiences in Kandy
More Tour Reviews in Kandy
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- From Colombo: Kandy, Pinnawala and Tea Factory Full-Day Trip
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- 6 Days of Sri Lanka with all inclusive Ayurvedha Uplift
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