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Overview:
As soon as you arrive, Sri Lanka captures your senses with its warmth, vibrant colors, and a rich tapestry of sounds. The tropical air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices and fruits, and the landscape is dotted with the lush green jungle, striking flowers, and wildlife. The colorful saris worn by the women add to the stunning visual appeal of the island, while the presence of orange-clad Buddhist monks and wild elephants enriches the mystique of the place. Marco Polo, one of the greatest explorers, described it simply as the finest island in the world.
Over its two thousand-year history, Sri Lanka has attracted invaders and visitors from India, the Arabs, Portuguese, Dutch, and the British. The 145 years of British rule left a significant impact on the country, including its love for cricket and the iconic red pillar-boxes still found on street corners. Today, this island, famous for its spices and gems, is a blend of Buddhist culture, ancient cities, wildlife-rich jungles, misty hill country, and palm-fringed beaches.
Our tour takes you to the country’s most significant historical and cultural landmarks, including three UNESCO World Heritage sites. You’ll explore the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock, an ancient palace fortress perched on a 600-foot granite monolith, and the cave temples of Dambulla, which are adorned with stunning frescoes and golden statues. We’ll visit Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings, and immerse ourselves in the country’s royal and spiritual heritage at the Temple of the Tooth. Afterward, we head to Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill-country, a scenic area with tea estates and colonial charm, before venturing to Yala National Park, famous for its high concentration of leopards. To cap off this incredible journey, we’ll spend three days relaxing on the beautiful beaches along the Indian Ocean. Sri Lanka’s delicious cuisine, friendly people, and natural beauty make it a truly unforgettable destination.
Itinerary Details:
Day 1: Departure
Arrive at the airport and take your flight to Colombo.
Day 2: Arrival in Colombo
You arrive in Colombo by lunchtime and stay one night at the nearby Jetwing Lagoon Hotel.
Day 3: Dambulla & Habarana
The adventure begins as you witness the stunning Sri Lankan countryside, with its paddy fields, coconut groves, and jungle-covered landscapes. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and discover over 150 Buddhist statues and exquisitely preserved frescoes. Afterward, stay at Habarana Village Hotel by Cinnamon for two nights.
Day 4: Sigiriya Rock
Visit Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, a towering granite monolith crowned by the ruins of a 1,500-year-old royal palace. The site is surrounded by moats, water gardens, and ancient murals depicting celestial maidens. Climb the rock to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding jungle. The afternoon is free to relax at the hotel.
Day 5: Kandy
Drive to Kandy, the former royal capital of Sri Lanka. En route, visit a spice garden to learn about the country’s rich spice heritage. In Kandy, you’ll stay at the Cinnamon Citadel Hotel for two nights. Explore the bustling streets, visit the Temple of the Tooth, and stroll around Kandy Lake. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance.
Day 6: Kandy
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, a 150-acre garden with exotic plants, trees, and tropical birds. Explore highlights like the Avenue of Royal Palms and witness the Flying Foxes hanging upside down. You will also visit Lord Mountbatten’s WWII headquarters. Afterward, experience Kandy’s rich cultural atmosphere with a colorful traditional dance show.
Day 7: Tea Estates
Travel to Sri Lanka’s premier tea-growing region, with scenic views of tea plantations, pine forests, and rolling hills. Visit a renowned tea estate to see how tea is processed and enjoy a cup of Ceylon’s finest. Stay at St Andrews Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, a hill station with colonial charm, parks, and a golf course.
Day 8: Elephant Transit Home & Yala
Say goodbye to the hill country and head toward Yala National Park. Stop at the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe National Park, where you can watch young elephant orphans being fed. Continue to the Jetwing Yala Hotel, where you will stay for two nights near the park.
Day 9: Yala National Park
Embark on a safari in Yala National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s highest concentration of leopards. Spot other wildlife like elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a variety of birds. After the safari, relax at the hotel and enjoy the stunning surroundings. Optionally, go on an evening safari.
Day 10: Galle
Head back to the west coast, stopping in Galle to explore the 16th-century Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stay at The Lighthouse Hotel, a Geoffrey Bawa-designed hotel located along the stunning southern coast, offering luxurious rooms and various amenities.
Days 11-12: Free Days
Two days to relax and enjoy the beach and pool at your hotel.
Day 13: Leave
Transfer to the airport for your return flight, arriving home later the same day.
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