From Negombo: 2-Day Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, & Waterfalls Tour

Planning a quick escape from Negombo into the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush hill country? This 2-day tour offers an appealing mix of natural beauty, cultural treasures, and colonial charm. We’ve looked into this experience and found it can be a rewarding way to get a taste of Sri Lanka’s diverse scenery and spirituality—if you’re prepared for some long drives and early mornings.

Two things stand out: first, the stunning waterfalls like St. Clare’s, Devon, and Ramboda, which are truly picture-perfect and worth the early wake-up call. Second, the chance to visit iconic temples, including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, which invites a sense of reverence and history. That said, a potential snag is the amount of time spent in transit; with over 4 hours on the road just on day one, travelers craving a more relaxed pace might find it a tad rushed. Still, if you enjoy sweeping views, cultural sites, and a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s scenic diversity, this tour could suit you well.

It’s an experience best suited for those who want an efficient yet immersive taste of Sri Lanka’s main attractions—ideal for first-timers, short-stay visitors, or anyone eager to see a little of everything within a weekend. Now, let’s take a detailed look at what makes this trip tick and how you can best enjoy it.

Key Points

Stunning Waterfalls: The St. Clares, Devon, and Ramboda Waterfalls are real photo opportunities and add a refreshing natural element.
Cultural Highlights: The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Bahirawakanda Temple provide insight into Sri Lanka’s spiritual life and history.
Beautiful Landscapes: From tea plantations to lush hills, the scenery is a major draw—especially in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England.”
Convenient Transportation: Private, air-conditioned vehicles make long drives comfortable and minimize hassle.
Well-Structured Itinerary: The tour balances sightseeing with travel, with enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling too rushed.
Inclusive & Transparent Pricing: The cost includes accommodation, taxes, park fees, refreshments, and transportation, but you’ll need cash for entrance fees.
Authentic Experiences: Visiting local tea plantations and a gem lapidary adds a flavor of real Sri Lankan craftsmanship.
Flexible & Family-Friendly: Suitable for most travelers, though not recommended for those with mobility issues or back problems.
Limited Time with Long Drives: The trip’s value is in the highlights—those seeking a slow-paced, leisurely experience might prefer a different approach.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What to Expect Day-by-Day

Day 1: From Negombo to Nuwara Eliya

The adventure begins early, departing from your hotel in Negombo with a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive to Nuwara Eliya takes approximately 4.5 hours, so it’s wise to bring snacks, water, and a good playlist to pass the time. We liked that the driver guide was engaging but not intrusive, and the vehicle’s Wi-Fi and water kept us refreshed during the trip.

En route, the stops at St. Clare’s and Devon Waterfalls are well-placed to stretch your legs and marvel at Sri Lanka’s watery splendors. These waterfalls are more than just scenic—they’re a true highlight, especially for photography lovers. One review described Devon Falls as “like a waterfall out of a postcard,” which is a fair assessment. Expect to spend about 20-30 minutes at each, enough to snap photos and soak in the cool mist.

Arriving in Nuwara Eliya, you’ll find a landscape dotted with tea plantations that seem to stretch endlessly across the rolling hills. This is the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea industry, and watching pluckers at work offers a glimpse into local life. The town’s colonial architecture and cool climate earn it the nickname “Little England,” and walking its streets gives a charming, nostalgic feel.

The day ends with overnight accommodation in a 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast included. The hotel options provide a comfortable base to relax after the day’s sightseeing.

Day 2: Nuwara Eliya to Kandy via Waterfalls and Temples

After breakfast, it’s time for a scenic 6.5-hour drive back south, with several noteworthy stops along the way. First up is Ramboda Falls—a grand cascade that stands 109 meters high. This stop is particularly praised for its tranquility and the lush green backdrop, which makes for stunning photos and a peaceful moment amid nature.

Next, you’ll visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, a sprawling green space renowned for its orchids, spices, and majestic palm avenues. Travelers often mention how much they enjoyed wandering these gardens—it’s a refreshing contrast to the road trip and a great place to breathe in some nature.

The highlight in Kandy is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most revered Buddhist temples globally. Visitors often describe it as “sacred and impressive,” with intricate architecture and a serene atmosphere. Keep in mind that entrance fees are not included, so be prepared with a little cash. The temple’s spiritual significance makes it a moving stop.

Additional visits include the Bahirawakanda Temple, offering panoramic views of Kandy, and a gem lapidary and arts and crafts center, where you can pick up souvenirs and learn about local craftsmanship. The Kandy Lake, built by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, provides a peaceful setting for photos and strolls, rounding out the day’s culture.

The journey ends with a return drive to Negombo, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel or the airport, completing this compact but vibrant tour.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

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The Waterfalls

The waterfalls are truly standout moments. St. Clare’s and Devon Waterfalls are often described as “breathtaking,” with their cascading water and surrounding greenery offering some of the most picturesque views in Sri Lanka. Ramboda Falls adds a sense of grandeur to the journey, and many reviews mention how these stops turned into memorable photo ops.

The Temples and Spiritual Sites

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is more than just a religious site—it’s a window into Sri Lanka’s spiritual fabric. Visitors often find it awe-inspiring, and the peaceful atmosphere invites reflection. The Bahirawakanda Temple offers panoramic views, giving a sense of how the city of Kandy spreads out below.

The Scenic Landscapes

From tea plantations to lush green hills, the scenery is consistently impressive. We loved the way the landscapes changed dramatically between the cooler hill stations and the warmer plains, giving a real sense of Sri Lanka’s geographic diversity.

Convenience and Comfort

With private transportation, the long drives are made manageable. The air-conditioned vehicle, the driver’s local knowledge, and the included refreshments keep the experience comfortable and enjoyable.

The Value of This Tour

At $260 per person, this experience offers a well-rounded snapshot of Sri Lanka’s hill country and cultural gems. The price includes one night of accommodation, most entrance fees (except for some sites like the waterfalls and temples), and all taxes, making it straightforward and transparent. Breakfast is included, which adds to the overall value, especially after a long day of sightseeing.

While it’s a slightly packed itinerary, the tour’s structure ensures you see the highlights without feeling overwhelmed. The inclusion of local visits, like tea plantations and gem centers, adds authenticity without a hefty extra cost. It’s a good deal for travelers with limited time who want a taste of Sri Lanka’s best scenery and culture.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is best suited for first-time visitors eager to cover a lot of ground quickly, or those with limited time who want a guided experience. It’s perfect if you enjoy natural beauty, photo opportunities, and cultural sites—especially temples and gardens.

However, if you’re looking for a more relaxed, leisurely pace or traveling with mobility challenges, you might find the long drives less comfortable. It’s also not ideal for those who prefer to explore at their own pace or have specific dietary restrictions, as meals are not included.

For anyone eager to see stunning waterfalls, lush tea plantations, and historic temples within a short trip, this tour delivers a very good snapshot of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

The Sum Up

This 2-day tour from Negombo provides an efficient way to experience some of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and culturally significant sights. With its focus on waterfalls, temples, botanical gardens, and scenic landscapes, it offers a balanced mix of natural beauty and spiritual depth. The private transportation and included accommodations ensure comfort and convenience, making it a practical choice for travelers short on time.

While the schedule is somewhat ambitious, the variety of stops keeps the journey engaging and visually rewarding. The tour’s emphasis on authentic experiences—like visiting tea plantations and gem centers—adds value beyond just sightseeing.

If you’re looking for a snapshot of Sri Lanka’s hill country, especially if this is your first visit, this tour promises a memorable, photo-friendly adventure that captures the essence of the island’s natural and cultural treasures.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes one night’s accommodation in a 3 or 4-star hotel with breakfast, private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, an English-speaking driver guide, visits to waterfalls, tea plantations, botanical gardens, temples, and crafts centers, plus parking and government taxes.

Are entrance fees included?
No, entrance fees to Ramboda Waterfalls, Kandy Tooth Relic Temple, Bahirawakanda Temple, and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are not included. You should carry cash for these sites.

How long is the drive between locations?
The drive from Negombo to Nuwara Eliya is about 4.5 hours. On day two, the drive from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy takes approximately 6.5 hours, including stops.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, warm clothing for cooler Nuwara Eliya, a hat, camera, sunscreen, and water are recommended. It’s also good to carry some cash for entrance fees and personal expenses.

Is this tour suitable for families?
Yes, it’s suitable for most travelers, but those with back problems, mobility impairments, or who use wheelchairs may find the long drives and walking at sites challenging.

What is the best time of year to take this tour?
While specific seasons aren’t mentioned, the cooler climate of Nuwara Eliya suggests it’s more comfortable during Sri Lanka’s dry season, from December to March, but it’s generally manageable year-round.

Can I customize the itinerary?
Since this is a private guided tour, there’s some flexibility—discuss your preferences with the provider beforehand.

Will I have free time during the tour?
The itinerary is structured to maximize sightseeing, but you’ll have some time at each site for photos and brief exploration.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve your spot with a flexible pay-later option, and cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the tour date, making it easy to plan with confidence.

This detailed, balanced review hopefully helps you decide whether this short but scenic adventure aligns with your travel style and interests. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls or seeking tranquil gardens and spiritual sites, Sri Lanka’s hill country awaits.

You can check availability for your dates here: