Captivating landscapes in the heart of Sri Lanka

Colombo

Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, your driver will be waiting to transfer you to your accommodation in Colombo’s city center.

Check-in and relax before heading out to stroll through the streets of Sri Lanka's capital city.

Colombo - Kitulgala

Day 2: Prehistoric exploration

After breakfast, your driver will take you to Kitulgala.  Located amid thick forest hills, Kitulgala sits amidst the river “Kelani Ganga”.

In the afternoon, you will visit Belilena Caves, a large cave system that reveals the remains of the prehistoric “Balangoda Man”, Sri Lanka’s oldest inhabitant, said to have lived there 32,000 years ago.

In the evening, check in to your new accommodation in Kitulgala.

Kitulgala

Day 3: Trek through Makandawa Rainforest

Today will start with an intrepid trek through the luscious, green Makandawa Rainforest.

It is the perfect destination for endemic bird watching with over 50 rare bird species living there. You will get to see rare species of fish and butterflies and the grizzled-tailed giant squirrel.

Makandawa Rainforest has several interesting geographical features like crystal clear natural rock pools, cascading waterfalls, and of course, the Kelani River running right through the jungle. Enjoy this unique moment surrounded by nature and the beautiful landscapes of this area. 

Kitulgala - Nuwara Eliya

Day 4: Tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya

Your driver will transport you to the picturesque town of Nuwara Eliya, nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's hill country. Here, you'll be surrounded by rolling hills adorned with lush, emerald-green tea plantations. You'll even have the opportunity to try your hand at plucking tea leaves.

At the tea plantations and factories, you'll learn about the intricate process of crafting the world-famous Ceylon Tea.

Afterward, your driver will guide you on a tour of Nuwara Eliya, showcasing the serene Lake Gregory and the charming colonial architecture that gives this town its unique character.

Nuwara Eliya - Kandy

Day 5: Journey to Kandy

In the morning you will journey to Kandy. Here you'll take a cycling tour from Kandy to Hanthana on a path that showcases beautiful landscapes.

On your way, you'll have the unique opportunity to meet a village chief who will warmly welcome you into his home. There, his wife will demonstrate how to prepare some delightful local snacks, which you'll enjoy with a cup of tea. This experience will provide a genuine glimpse into Sri Lankan hospitality, allowing you to share a special moment with the locals.

Afterward, you'll visit a Hindu Temple before heading back to Kandy. In the evening, you'll visit the Temple of the Tooth and participate in a devout Buddhist ceremony, immersing yourself in the spiritual heart of Sri Lankan culture.

Kandy - Sigiriya

Day 6: Meet the locals in Sigiriya

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at your hotel in Kandy before transferring to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its ancient rock fortress.

Upon arrival, you'll embark on an immersive tour of a rural village, offering a fascinating glimpse into local life and traditional customs. Engage with the villagers, learn about their daily routines, and perhaps even try your hand at some local crafts.

Spend the evening at your leisure, relaxing and soaking in the serene atmosphere of this historic region, or explore the local markets and enjoy the vibrant culture.

Sigiriya - Minneriya - Sigiriya

Day 7: Summit Sigiriya Rock & take a safari

Today you'll be visiting two places; Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Minneriya National Park. 

Sigiriya Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a 370-meter granite rock with a magnificent palace built around 475 AD by King Kashyapa. It is a wonder of ancient engineering, art and culture. On the summit, reached with the help of metal staircases and ladders, you can see the remains of the palace walls, gardens and ponds. 

After having climbed the rock head to Minneriya National Park. The central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank which, during the dry season, is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze on the grasses as well as the huge flocks of birds that come to fish in the shallow waters.

Sigiriya - Trincomalee

Day 8: A glimpse of paradise in Trincomalee

It is time to explore the East Coast of Sri Lanka. Your driver will take you to Trincomalee, where you will get to see the temple “Koneswaram Temple”. This Hindu Temple, dedicated to Lord Shiva, is located on a rocky cape with an amazing panoramic view of the Indian Ocean coast. 

The city itself is historic with a mix of charm, a myriad of waterfronts and teeming with friendly locals.

Trincomalee is great for sunbathing but besides relaxing on the beach and enjoying the sun, there is a lot more to do if you are feeling a bit more active. There are a number of water activities like swimming and snorkeling that let you explore the waters teeming with marine life.

Trincomalee

Day 9: The serene Indian Ocean

Today is yours to enjoy how you wish. Spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the town further - whatever you choose to do, the Indian Ocean will be your backdrop.

Trincomalee - Wilpattu

Day 10: Leopard spotting in Wilpattu National Park

This afternoon, set off on an exciting adventure to Wilpattu National Park, known as the "Land of Lakes." Situated in the Northwestern coastal lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka, this park is distinctive for its "willus" – natural lakes that dot the landscape.

Spanning over 1,317 square kilometers, Wilpattu is the largest and one of the oldest national parks in Sri Lanka, boasting nearly sixty lakes and tanks. The park is teeming with wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, and a vibrant array of bird species. Wilpattu is also renowned for its leopard population, which you might be lucky enough to spot during your thrilling jeep safari.

Wilpattu - Negombo

Day 11: The coastal buzz of Negombo

As a coastal city, Negombo is renowned for its seafood, offering a feast for the senses. After arriving, stroll along the coastal road and discover an abundance of restaurants serving up fresh and delicious seafood.

Be sure to visit the bustling fish market, where the day’s finest catch—fish, lobsters, crabs, and prawns—are on display. Just east of the town center, you’ll find Angurukaramulla Temple, home to a magnificent 6-meter reclining Buddha. Make a stop there before ending your day with a leisurely stroll along the palm-lined beach, watching the sunset over the sea.

Relax and unwind, savoring the comfort and beauty of Negombo on your last night in Sri Lanka.

Negombo

Day 12: Goodbye, Sri Lanka

It's time to say goodbye to Sri Lanka. Your driver will be ready to transfer you to the airport with plenty of time for your safe flight home.