Day 1
day 1 Arrive Colombo
Upon arrival at Colombo's Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in the city. After a seamless check-in process, embark on a city tour of Colombo. This vibrant urban center is host to numerous corporate offices, dining establishments, and entertainment hubs. During the tour, you'll explore a range of historical, religious, and commercial landmarks, including the lively Fort and Pettah areas, the prestigious Cinnamon Gardens residential district, the scenic Galle Face Green, Viharamahadevi Park, and many other notable sites.
Dinner & Overnight in Colombo
Day 2
day 2 Colombo - Habarana
Following breakfast, proceed towards Habarana, with a stopover at the Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage along the way. Renowned as one of Sri Lanka's foremost tourist destinations, the orphanage currently houses approximately 65 elephants, boasting the title of the largest captive elephant collection globally. Among its inhabitants are elephants of various ages, spanning from newborns to venerable matriarchs. This diverse population comprises orphaned, abandoned, and wild-injured elephants.
Dinner &
Overnight in Habarana
Day 3
day 3 Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Following breakfast, proceed deeper into the heartland to reach the renowned Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a truly iconic landmark in Sri Lanka. Rising majestically from the plains of the dry zone, this spectacular citadel is both imposing and awe-inspiring. It stands as the nation's most remarkable singular attraction, an archaeological marvel made all the more unforgettable by its dramatic location.
Afterward, journey to a village in Sigiriya where you'll have the opportunity to experience a catamaran ride and a bullock cart excursion, followed by a traditional Sri Lankan village lunch at a local villager's home, complete with a cooking demonstration.
Dinner &
Overnight in Habarana
Day 4
day 4 Transfer to Kandy
Following breakfast, proceed to Kandy, which is approximately a 2 1/2 hour drive away. Along the way, take a detour to visit a Spice Garden in Matale, where you can observe the various spices for which Sri Lanka is renowned. During your time there, you'll have the opportunity to witness the cultivation and processing of these spices, as well as gain insight into how they are blended to create Asian curries. This informative visit provides valuable educational insights into the world of spices.
Dinner & Overnight in Kandy
Day 5
day 5 The Temple of Tooth
After enjoying your breakfast, embark on a sightseeing tour of Kandy, starting with a visit to The Temple of Tooth, also known as Dalada Maligawa. This historic temple, which dates back to the 16th century with significant renovations in the 19th century, holds immense cultural and religious significance.
As you enter the shrine, you'll step over a moonstone threshold and encounter a stone carving depicting the Indian goddess Lakshmi. Inside, frescoes adorn the walls, depicting the Buddhist interpretation of hell. The main attraction lies on the upper floors, where the revered relic of the tooth is kept, enclosed behind gilded iron bars. Adjacent to the tooth relic sanctuary, you'll find a hall adorned with golden Buddha statues and contemporary paintings narrating the life of Buddha and the introduction of Buddhism to the region.
In the evening, venture out to witness a traditional dance performance, offering a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich dancing heritage.
Dinner &
Overnight in Kandy
Day 6
day 6 Train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Following breakfast, proceed to Kandy Railway Station and embark on a local train bound for Nanu Oya, Nuwara Eliya. This renowned journey offers a captivating passage through the heart of hill and tea country, enveloping travelers in lush greenery. As the train winds through verdant mountains and tunnels, passengers are treated to panoramic vistas of meticulously maintained tea estates, dense foliage, and precipitous valleys. Keep an eye out for Tamil tea pickers adorned in vibrant saris amidst the tea bushes. Upon arrival at Nanu Oya Railway Station, transfer to the hotel for check-in.
Dinner &
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Day 7
day 7 Nuwara Eliya - Tissamaharama
After breakfast, check out from the accommodation and transfer to Tissamaharama, which is approximately a 4-hour drive. Along the way, we will stop to visit a Tea Plantation and Factory located in Nuwara Eliya. Following this visit, we will embark on a city tour of Nuwara Eliya. Nuwara Eliya, known as "the city of dawn," sits at the highest elevation in Sri Lanka, approximately 2000 meters above sea level. The town offers a view of its tallest peak, Piduruthalagala (2555 meters). Nuwara Eliya is renowned as the heart of the tea country, allowing visitors to witness firsthand the process of brewing the famous "Ceylon Tea" by visiting a plantation and factory en route.
Dinner & Overnight in Tissamaharama
Day 8
day 8 Jeep Safari at Yala National Park
Yala National Park stands as Sri Lanka's most frequented wildlife sanctuary, spanning an expanse of 1260 square kilometres. Its dry-zone terrain showcases remarkable beauty, complemented by a captivating array of wildlife. Here, you'll witness the enchanting spectacle of colorful painted storks flocking alongside the serene march of elephants through the bush, while rabbits dart about the undergrowth. Among the notable inhabitants, leopards, sloth bears, and elephants reign supreme as the "big 3," alongside crocodiles, jackals, and a diverse array of bird species. This sprawling park, the largest in the country, offers an irresistible allure to nature enthusiasts. In the evening, upon your arrival, you'll be transported to Beruwala, where you'll check in to your hotel.
Dinner &
Overnight in Beruwala
Day 9
day 9 Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda
Following breakfast, embark on a visit to the Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda, the oldest Conservation and Research project in Sri Lanka dating back to the early 1970s. Initially established as a community initiative to safeguard the biodiversity of the southern coast, it has evolved into a fully-fledged hatchery and rescue center dedicated to the preservation of endangered turtle species. With round-the-clock efforts from dedicated teams, the center studies, cares for, and protects these precious turtles.
Subsequently, transfer to Balapitiya, a brief 10-minute drive away, and proceed with a boat safari along the Madu River, lasting approximately one hour. Nestled near Galle in the island's south, the Madu River offers a haven for nature enthusiasts. Glide along its tranquil waters, keeping an eye out for crocodiles and water monitors stealthily moving beneath the surface, while endemic birds of prey soar overhead. Along the journey, a stop at Koth Duwa, a small island adorned with a picturesque temple and a Buddha statue, adds a spiritual touch to the experience.
Dinner & Overnight in Beruwala
Day 10
day 10 Galle Fort
Following breakfast, embark on a City Tour within Galle Fort. This historic area, dating back to the 17th century and enclosed within the Dutch Fort, has earned recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll along the ramparts, stretching from Point Utrecht bastion to Flag Rock bastion, to admire the ancient harbor, known as Tarshish in biblical times. Along the way, we'll pass notable landmarks such as the District Court and the original Fort entrance before reaching the Dutch Reformed Church, constructed in the 17th century. Moving beyond the Fort, we'll explore the New Town, which suffered significant damage from the 2004 tsunami. Here lies the renowned International cricket stadium, which has undergone reconstruction.
The evening will be free for your leisure.
Dinner & Overnight in Beruwala
Day 11
day 11 Departure
After breakfast, continue with your departure transfer to the airport for your departing flight.