Itinerary
Arrive in the airport and check into the hotel in Colombo
Depending on the time visit Colombo attractions such as Lotus tower, Gangarama Temple, and Red Mosque.
Colombo is the capital city of Sri Lanka which consists of colonial attractions, historical monuments, sites of various religions places for shopping from luxury purchases to the most economical buying, culinary delights from street food to fine dining both local and international, museums and art galleries, vibrant night life, as well as beautiful beaches and green spaces.
Overnight stay in Colombo
After breakfast, check out from the hotel at 8.00am for Colombo city tour.
Depending on the visited attractions on the Day 1, you might visit national museum, independence square, Sambodhi Chaitya, Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct, Pettah market and Galle Face Green.
Overnight stay in Colombo
After breakfast, check out from the hotel at 8.00am for Pinnawala (2hrs 15mins)
Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage (2hrs 30mins), a home for wild Asian elephants. Watch the movements of the wild Asian elephants and fondle baby elephants by feeding fruit to them.
Have a rare opportunity to see the elephants bathing in the river. You also will have an occasional chance to watch the mahouts are feeding milk to the baby elephants. This is a chance to get knowledge of elephants’ history and their behaviour, while enjoying the scenery and watching the elephants in a relatively natural habitat.
Overnight stay in Dambulla
After breakfast, leave the hotel at 8.00am to visit Dambulla Cave Temple and more attractions.
The Dambulla Cave Temple complex with a giant golden Buddha statue in its top, consists of five main caves, each filled with statues, murals, and carvings. You can explore these caves to see the impressive collection of Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings depicting scenes from Buddha's life and Sri Lankan history. As the temple is situated on a hill, you can also enjoy the paranomic views of the surrounding countryside.
Overnight stay in Dambulla
After breakfast checkout from the hotel and leave for Anuradhapura.
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and is rich in history and culture. There are numerous activities and sites to explore in this UNESCO World Heritage city including
Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the most worshipped tree in Sri Lanka related to Buddhist history, Ruwanwelisaya one of the world’s tallest monuments, Jetavanaramaya, an enormous stupa, and the historical Buddhist places; Abhayagiri Monastery, Thuparamaya, Isurumuniya Vihara with rock carvings.
Anuradhapura Archaeological Museum showcases artefacts from Anuradhapura's long history, including pottery, statues, and coins, while Folk Museum showcases the traditional lifestyles and artefacts of the people in the region.
Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) is a beautifully designed ancient bathing tanks while Moonstone (Sandakada Pahana) which is an intricatey carved stone symbolizing the cycle of samsara is in Buddhism. Samadhi Buddha statue which is 7 feet 3 inches in height is a main attraction in Anuradhapura.
Overnight stay in Habarana
Leave hotel at 6.00am for safari in Habarana.
During the safari, you can witness the famous "Gathering" of elephants, when large herds congregate around the Minneriya Tank. In Kaudulla National Park, you can see elephants migrating from Minneriya, offering another excellent opportunity for elephant sightings. In Hurulu Eco Park enjoy less crowded elephant encounters and a more intimate safari experience. You can enjoy bird watching near Habarana Tank, having a great opportunity to see kingfishers, herons, eagles, and many other bird species. Spot deer, leopards, sloth bears, wild boars, and numerous other animals in the national parks. You may have elephant rides through the jungle and across streams, while having the opportunity to join elephant bathing.
Overnight stay in Habarana
After breakfast, leave the hotel at 8.00am for Sigiriya
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will explore the ruins of King Kashyapa’s palace, built atop the rock in the 5th century. The site includes the king's throne, foundations of various buildings, and an extensive network of gardens, pools, and fountains. Admire the famous frescoes of the "Sigiriya Maidens" or "Cloud Damsels," painted on a sheltered rock face about halfway up the rock. The Mirror Wall is a well-maintained in antiquity that it reflected like a mirror. Visitors can also see ancient graffiti on this wall, written by visitors who admired the frescoes, dating back to the 6th to 14th centuries.
The large stone lion paws at the base of the final ascent to the summit are remnants of a massive brick lion structure that once stood here, giving Sigiriya its name "Lion Rock." There are Terraced Gardens at the base of the rock, which include meticulously designed water gardens, fountains, and boulder gardens, showcasing ancient landscaping skills.
In the afternoon, you will hike Pidurangala Rock through lush greenery experiencing adventure. You’ll pass an ancient temple with a large reclining Buddha statue, which is one of the key highlights of the climb. Once you reach the top, you are rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including a breathtaking view of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The summit provides an unobstructed 360-degree view, making it a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of the area. You will enjoy the breathtaking view of the sunset in the evening.
Overnight stay in Habarana
After breakfast, checkout from the hotel at 8.00am for Kandy.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is one of the most revered Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, and a UNESCO world heritage site. Located in Kandy, this is believed to house a sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. The shrine of the tooth relic is covered by a golden canopy, adding to the temple’s grandeur. The temple complex showcases traditional Kandyan architecture with its beautifully carved woodwork, intricate ivory and lacquer work, and elaborate frescoes depicting scenes from Buddhist history.
In the evening, you can attend cultural dance performances showcasing traditional Kandyan dance and music. These shows often occur in the evening and provide an insight into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight stay in Kandy
After breakfast checkout from the hotel at 8.00am for Nuwara Eliya by train/van
Visit the lush green tea estates that blanket the hillsides. You can walk through the plantations, enjoy the scenic views, and learn about the different types of tea plants. You also will visit a tea factory to see the tea production process from plucking to packaging. Enjoy tasting some of the finest Ceylon tea at the end of the tour.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, leave hotel for Ramboda Falls.
Enjoy the breathtaking views of the cascading water as it plunges down from a height of approximately 109 meters (358 feet). The lush greenery surrounding the falls adds to the natural charm, making it a great spot for nature photography. The hike might include walking through tea plantations and crossing small streams, enhancing the adventure.
Depending on the time, you may visit Gregory Lake to enjoy boat rides, jet skiing and swan boat rides, and relax some time in Gregory Park.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast leave hotel at 8.00 for Ella
Explore Ella Town while having a look at Nine Arches Bridge. Trek Ella Rock that offers breathtaking views of Ella Gap and the surrounding valleys.
Overnight stay in Ella
After breakfast, leave hotel to enjoy the rest of attractions in Ella.
Visit Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka's most beautiful waterfalls. You can take a refreshing dip in the natural pool if the conditions are safe.
Depending on the time visit Diyaluma Falls, the second highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.
Overnight stay in Ella
After breakfast, checkout from hotel at 8.00am for Galle (2hrs 44mins)
Arrive in Galle check in to the hotel in Galle.
In the afternoon, make a walking tour of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit historical landmarks such as: Galle Fort Clock Tower, Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Lighthouse, and National Maritime Museum.
In the evening, explore the quaint streets of Galle Fort lined with boutiques, art galleries, and souvenir shops for local handicrafts, jewelry, and spices.
Watch the sunset from the ramparts of Galle Fort, offering stunning views of the Indian Ocean and the city below.
Overnight stay in Galle
After breakfast, leave hotel at 8.00am for Unawatuna Beach, one of the most popular beaches near Galle. Relax on the sandy shores, swim in the turquoise waters, or try water sports like snorkeling or diving.
Visit the Japanese Peace Pagoda, located on Rumassala Hill overlooking Unawatuna. Enjoy panoramic views of the coastline and explore the tranquil surroundings.
You also can visit Galle Dutch Hospital complex consists trendy shops, cafes, and restaurants.
In the evening, you can attend a traditional Sri Lankan cultural show, featuring traditional dance, music, and drum performances.
Overnight stay in Galle
After breakfast, leave hotel at 8.00am for Hikkaduwa which is known for its vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Spend time snorkeling or diving in Hikkaduwa's clear waters. Explore the coral reefs and encounter colorful fish, turtles, and other marine creatures.
Depending on your interest, you may enjoy spa and relaxing.
Overnight stay in Galle
After breakfast, leave hotel at 8.00am for Galle Fort Bird Sanctuary to observe various bird species amidst the ancient architecture. Visit a nearby sea turtle hatchery, such as the Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project. Learn about turtle conservation efforts and see baby turtles before they are released into the ocean.
Depending on the time to flight overnight stay in Galle or leave for airport.
