The Best Historical Tours in Sri Lanka

Unveiling Sri Lanka's Rich History

Sri Lanka Sri Lanka

Calling all history enthusiasts and cultural explorers! Are you craving a holiday to Sri Lanka that goes beyond the ordinary? To help you plan your next trip, we have put together this carefully curated list of guided tours that offer an unforgettable experience filled with intrigue and discovery. With meticulous attention to detail, we've analyzed a variety of historical tours to Sri Lanka to ensure the perfect blend of price, comfort, guest ratings, service, and activities. With these key criteria, we have found the absolute best hisorical tours to Sri Lanka to help make your planning process much easier.


The Top 3:

  • 12 Days, $694.00

  • 14 Days, $1200.00

  • 8 Days, $660.00

What are the historical tour options in Sri Lanka?

Sri Lanka

Here are the important factors:

  • 13 trip options analyzed
  • $126 average price per day (USD)
  • 6 to 15 days in length
  • 4.84 of 5 average rating
  • 17 people or less on average

Curious about the diverse range of historical tours? Prepare to be amazed by the array of options available to suit every traveler's preferences. It comes as no surprise that visitors adore these tours, given their exceptional average guest rating of 4.84 out of 5 stars. When it comes to group sizes, the average maximum capacity stands at 17 people, allowing for a comfortable and sociable experience. The shortest tour is 6 days, while the longest is 15 days. Looking at physical activity, the tours are easy, moderate, and relaxing, with the most as easy. Regarding travel styles, the tours are categorized as family and honeymoon, with the majority being family. With a comprehensive analysis encompassing 13 historical tours, you can rest assured that Sri Lanka has something tailored to your interests and preferences, promising an unforgettable experience for all.

(All tour prices are in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically.)

So, let's get to it and see...

The 10 Best Historical Tours in Sri Lanka
  • On Sale: 8% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by showlanka tours



12 Days Negombo to Colombo 12 Destinations 21 People at Most Ages 6 to 65 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

This exceptional trip offering by showlanka tours has received a 5 out of 5 rating. On this 12-day voyage you can unwind while also making new memories. Uncover the beauty of 12 destinations on this itinerary, with highlights such as Pinnawala, Yapahuwa, Anuradhapura, and Jaffna. Negombo will mark the start of your journey, while Colombo will serve as its final destination. With a group size of 21 people, it's suitable for travelers aged 6 to 65 years old. With an emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities, you know you'll have an amazing adventure. This remarkable trip is priced at an unbeatable $53 per day. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Family
$694 $638
TourRadar
  • On Sale: 15% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Mango Vacations



14 Days Start/End in Colombo 14 Destinations through Sri Lanka, India 2 People at Most Ages 1 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Check out this journey that has received rave reviews, earning a stellar 5 out of 5 rating, visiting Sri Lanka and India. Traverse through 14 enchanting destinations, with Ella, Tissamaharama, Mirissa, and Galle among the must-see stops along the route. Colombo will be the beginning and end of your trip. And since the priority is on local culture and family-friendly activities, this tour is a great choice. Spanning across 14 unforgettable days, this voyage offers an intimate group experience with 2 participants, and it's great for people of any age. Brought to you by the renowned Mango Vacations, this exceptional opportunity is priced at an incredible $73 per day - an unbeatable value. Act now to take advantage of the special sale price!

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Family
  • Honeymoon
$1,200 $1,020
TourRadar
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Hellow Travel



8 Days Start/End in Negombo 8 Destinations 20 People at Most Ages 1 to 80 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

This 8-day journey is ideal for travelers aged 1 to 80 years old. And priced at only $83 per day, it's a great value, too. This trip visits 8 destinations, including Nuwara Eliya, Galle, Bentota, and Sigiriya along the way. Begin and conclude your remarkable journey in the gorgeous destination of Negombo. It's offered by Hellow Travel, a very popular company with rave reviews and knowledgeable guides.

  • Sightseeing
  • Historical
  • Family
$660
TourRadar
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Hellow Travel



6 Days Negombo to Colombo 8 Destinations 50 People at Most Ages 1 to 80 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Priced at just $91 per day, this terrific 6-day voyage is ideal for travelers aged 1 to 80 years old. Experience a trip that takes you to 8 remarkable destinations, including Galle, Bentota, Sigiriya, and Dambulla. Negombo will mark the start of your journey, while Colombo will serve as its final destination. Organized by the reputable Hellow Travel, this is one of the best tours on this list.

  • Sightseeing
  • Historical
  • Family
$546
TourRadar
  • On Sale: 10% Off
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Mango Vacations



12 Days Start/End in Colombo 13 Destinations through Sri Lanka, India 30 People at Most Ages 1 to 99 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Check out this incredible trip that has received a 5 out of 5 rating from previous guests, visiting Sri Lanka and India. With a duration of 12 days, this journey ensures an intimate group size of 30 people, and is good for people of any age. Explore 13 incredible locations on this trip, including Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, and Minneriya National Park. Colombo kicks off your expedition, serving as both the starting and finishing point. This fantastic option, organized by Mango Vacations, presents an unbeatable value at just $82 per day. Hurry and secure your spot while this incredible sale lasts!

  • Historical
  • Family
$1,090 $981
TourRadar
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Serendib Roots



7 Days Start/End in Negombo 11 Destinations 6 People at Most Ages 5 to 85 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Spanning over 7 days, this voyage has a maximum size of 6 individuals. Welcoming travelers aged 5 to 85 years old, it is organized by Serendib Roots, a very popular company with plenty of great reviews. Discover a journey that spans 11 destinations, with notable stops in Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park, and Colombo. You'll start and end this amazing trip in Negombo. You're in for an epic adventure with a strong emphasis on local culture and family-friendly activities. Available at an unbeatable price of only $113 per day, this option also has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars from previous guests.

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
  • Family
$790
TourRadar
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Serendib Roots



6 Days Start/End in Negombo 9 Destinations 6 People at Most Ages 18 to 55 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Here's your chance to take off on an exceptional journey that has garnered a 5 out of 5 rating. With a duration of 6 days, this jouney will have 6 participants, and it warmly welcomes travelers aged 18 to 55 years old. Expertly organized by Serendib Roots, this amazing trip is an incredible value at just $148 per day.

  • In-depth Cultural
  • Historical
$890
TourRadar
  • Great Value: the daily price is lower than average for historical tours.
by Capital Lanka Tours



11 Days Negombo to Colombo 12 Destinations 10 People at Most Ages 20 to 65 Guest Rating: 4.2 out of 5 stars

This memorable trip is offered by Capital Lanka Tours which has received plenty of positive reviews. The trip itself has a guest rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars, and is priced affordably at $114 per day. With 12 destinations to explore, you'll get the chance to see Ella, Yala National Park, Mirissa, and Bentota, and more. Negombo marks the starting point, while Colombo stands as the final stop on your incredible journey. The maximum group size is 10 people, welcoming travelers aged 20 to 65 years old.

  • Hiking & Trekking
  • Historical
  • Beach
$1,250
TourRadar
  • High Quality: guest ratings are higher than average.
by Contiki



11 Days Negombo to Colombo 7 Destinations 24 People at Most Ages 18 to 35 Guest Rating: 5.0 out of 5 stars

Set off on an extraordinary journey that has been awarded a 5 out of 5 stars by previous guests. With a duration of 11 days, this trip offers an intimate group setting, accommodating 24 individuals, while extending a warm welcome to travelers aged 18 to 35 years old. Along the way, this journey encompasses 7 destinations, including Ella, Udawalawe National Park, Unawatuna, and Sigiriya. Beginning in beautiful Negombo, you'll have a terrific journey that ends in Colombo. Brought to you by Contiki, this exceptional deal is an incredible steal at a mere $143 per day.

  • Historical
  • Local Guide
$1,573
TourRadar
by Explore!



15 Days Negombo to Colombo 12 Destinations 16 People at Most Ages 16 to 85 Guest Rating: 4.6 out of 5 stars

With this option you can experience an unparalleled journey for 15 unforgettable days. It ensures an intimate group setting with 16 participants at most. This itinerary covers 12 captivating destinations, with stops in Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe National Park, Colombo, and Wilpattu National Park, among others. Negombo will mark the start of your journey, while Colombo will serve as its final destination. Explore!, the organizer of this journey, extends a warm invitation to guests travelers aged 16 to 85 years old. This extraordinary opportunity offers exceptional value at only $193 per day.

  • Sightseeing
  • Historical
$2,890
TourRadar

See also The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Sri Lanka, The Best Wildlife Tours to Sri Lanka, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best 10-Day Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best 3-Day Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best 2-Week Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best 3-Week Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Bicycle Tours in Sri Lanka, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Sri Lanka, The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Adventure Tours to Sri Lanka, The Best Eco Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Cultural Tours in Sri Lanka, The Tours for Animal Lovers in Sri Lanka, The Best Volunteering Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Sri Lanka, The Best Safaris in Sri Lanka, The Best Budget Safaris in Sri Lanka, The Best Honeymoon Tours in Sri Lanka, The Best Tours Under $1000 in Sri Lanka, The Best Luxury Tours to Sri Lanka, The Best Budget Tours to Sri Lanka, The Best Tours for Seniors to Sri Lanka, or The Best G Adventures Tours to Sri Lanka for more tour ideas. With so many options, there's a guided tour or vacation package for every type of traveler.

Also, if you're departing from a specific destination, see The Best 3-Day Tours from Colombo, The Best 3-Day Tours from Negombo, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Colombo, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Negombo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Colombo, The Best 10-Day Tours from Negombo, The Best 2-Week Tours from Colombo, or The Best 2-Week Tours from Negombo for more package tour options.

How much do historical tours in Sri Lanka cost?

Average Daily Price Historical Tours
$126

After analyzing 13 historical tours in Sri Lanka, we found the average price to be a remarkably economical $126 per day. Naturally, this region has many fantastic options for historical tours with a variety of prices. The individual costs will vary by the destinations, travel style, available dates, and other factors. If you're interested in more information about tours here, see our guide to tour prices in Sri Lanka.

And for more information on Sri Lanka, see Sri Lanka Travel Costs and Sri Lanka Hotel Costs.


Budget Your Trip
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