GENERAL INFORMATION
Tour Route: Negombo - Negombo Fish Market - Dambulla Cave Temples - Sigiriya Rock Fortress - Ancient Ruins of Polonnaruwa - Anuradhapura - Spice Garden - Gem Museum - Temple of the Tooth Relic - Ramboda Falls - Tea Plantation - Horton Plains National Park - Nine Arch Bridge - Yala National Park - Rava Falls - Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home - Madu River - Sea Turtle Conservation Centre - Bentota
Duration: 17 Days
Start/ End: Negombo/ Bentota
Tour Customizable: Definitely! (Tell us your interest about your vacation packages)
Departure Date: No fixed departure. Any time you wish!
BRIEF ITINERARY
Day 1: Airport/ Negombo (D)
Day 2: Negombo Fish Market (B, D)
Day 3: Negombo – Sigiriya – Dambulla Cave Temples (B, D)
Day 4: Majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortness – Authentic Village Tour (B, D)
Day 5: Sigiriya – Acient Ruins of the Polonnaruwa City (B, D)
Day 6: Sigiriya – Anuradhapura City Tour (B, D)
Day 7: Sigiriya – Matale – Spice Garden – Gem Museum - Kandyan Cultural Dance Show (B, D)
Day 8: Kandy – Temple Tooth of Relic – Kandy City Tour (B, D)
Day 9: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Ramboda Falls – Tea Plantation (B, D)
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plans – Little England City Tour (B, D)
Day 11: Nuwara Eliya – train to Ella (approx. 4 hours) – Nine Arch Bridge – Yala – Rava Falls (B, D)
Day 12: Yalaa – Yala National Park – Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home - Galle – Bentota (B, D)
Day 13: Mangrove at the Madu River – Sea Turtle Conservation Centre (B, D)
Days 14 – 16: Bentota – no car & no guide (B, D)
Day 17: Bentota Departure (B)
FULL ITINERARY
Day 1: Airport/ Negombo (D)
Ayubowan! Welcome to Negombo, a beautiful paradise in the Indian Ocean!
Upon your arrival at the Airport, our guide will greet you and we proceed to transfer to your city hotel on the beach for relaxation and overnight (approx. 25 minutes driving).
Enjoy a nice dinner at the hotel and have the day free at your leisure.
Overnight in Negombo
Meal: Dinner
Day 2: Negombo Fish Market (B, D)
Highlights
• Breakfast at the resort
• Pay a Visit to the Negombo Fish Market
• Visit the Negombo Market
• Return to the Hotel and spend the rest of the day on Leisure
Your day begins with a delightful breakfast at the resort, offering a peaceful start before a day of exploration. Afterward, you'll head to the bustling Negombo Fish Market, one of the most vibrant and authentic places in the city. Here, you'll witness a thriving fishing culture that has been the lifeblood of Negombo for generations. As early as 4 AM, fishing boats arrive at the sandy shores, loaded with the day’s fresh catch. Shrimps, crabs, and lobsters are sourced from the renowned Negombo Lagoon, while fish are hauled in directly from the waves of the Indian Ocean. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the local way of life, where fishermen still trade their goods in the traditional manner.
Next, you'll explore the lively Negombo Market, a colorful place full of local produce, spices, and handmade goods. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the everyday hustle and bustle of the town while picking up some authentic Sri Lankan souvenirs.
After your market visits, return to the hotel where you can spend the rest of the day at your leisure, perhaps relaxing by the pool or enjoying the resort's amenities.
End your day with a pleasant dinner and an overnight stay in Negombo, reflecting on the rich experiences of the local culture you’ve encountered.
Overnight in Negombo.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Negombo – Sigiriya – Dambulla Cave Temples (B, D)
Highlights
• Breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to Sigirya (Approx. 3hrs 45mins)
• En Route to Sigiriya– Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples
• Check into the Hotel and Unwind
Start your day with a nourishing breakfast at the resort, preparing yourself for an exciting journey ahead. Next, proceed to Sigiriya, a journey of approximately 3 hours and 45 minutes. As you travel, immerse yourself in the changing landscapes of Sri Lanka, from lush greenery to the dramatic rock formations that define the area.
En route to Sigiriya, take a moment to visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, one of Sri Lanka’s most revered and ancient sites. This sacred pilgrimage destination has been a sanctuary for worshippers for over 22 centuries. The complex, comprising five sanctuaries, is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. As you explore, marvel at the Buddhist mural paintings, which cover an extensive area of 2,100 square meters, and the 157 statues that stand as a testament to the rich spiritual heritage of the region. The Dambulla monastic ensemble is a stunning example of religious art, showcasing the artistic expressions of Sri Lanka and the broader South and Southeast Asian regions. The scale and preservation of the painted surfaces and statuary within the caves are unparalleled, including significant masterpieces from the 18th century in the Sri Lankan school of Kandy.
After exploring the caves, check into your hotel in Sigiriya and unwind, allowing yourself to relax and absorb the peaceful surroundings after a day of cultural and historical discovery.
Overnight in Sigiriya
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 4: Majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortness – Authentic Village Tour (B, D)
Highlights
• Early Morning by 0530hrs, Proceed to Sigiriya (Approx. 30mins)
• Hike up on the Majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Witness the beauty from above
• Return to the Hotel and Enjoy Breakfast
• Later Enjoy an Authentic Village Tour, with a catamaran boat ride through the waters and a walk in the lush greenery fields – followed by a Local Favourite lunch of Rice and Curry
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
Begin your day early at 5:30 AM with a short 30-minute drive to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Upon arrival, embark on a thrilling hike up this majestic monolith, also known as Lion Rock. Built atop a colossal boulder in the 5th century, Sigiriya is a marvel of ancient engineering, once serving as a palace, a rock fortress, and even a hidden castle for King Kasyapa. Over time, it also became a Buddhist monastery. Rising 180 meters above the surrounding landscape, Sigiriya is often compared to the cosmic mountain of Meru and has earned its place as one of the potential eighth wonders of the world.
The ascent consists of 1,200 steps, beginning with a leisurely stroll through the beautifully landscaped pleasure gardens. As you climb, you'll find two resting spots where you can pause and take in the view. The entire hike takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours, depending on your pace. Water is provided along the way, and if the weather seems unpredictable, don’t forget to bring an umbrella from the vehicle.
After witnessing the breathtaking views from the summit, return to your hotel and enjoy a well-deserved breakfast, replenishing your energy after the climb.
Later in the day, immerse yourself in an authentic village tour. This experience begins with a tractor ride through the lush greenery of the village’s paddy fields, offering a close-up view of rural life. You'll then take a short walk to the lake, where a catamaran boat awaits to gently glide you across the tranquil waters. Enjoy the peace and serenity as you drift along, surrounded by the natural beauty of the landscape.
The tour concludes with a 10-minute walk through the village, leading to a delightful spread of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine. Here, you'll be welcomed into a warm, aromatic atmosphere where you can savor a freshly prepared village-style lunch, featuring the local favorite of rice and curry. After this enriching experience, return to your hotel and unwind, allowing the day's adventures to settle in as you relax and rejuvenate.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 5: Sigiriya – Acient Ruins of the Polonnaruwa City (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy an Early breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to Polonnaruwa (Approx. 1hr)
• Explore the Ancient Ruins of the Polonnaruwa City
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
Begin your day with an early breakfast at the resort, energizing yourself for a day filled with history and exploration. After breakfast, proceed to Polonnaruwa, a journey of approximately one hour, where you'll step back in time to discover the ancient ruins of one of Sri Lanka’s most significant historical cities. Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, rose to prominence after the fall of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. This urban green city, built by King Parakramabahu I, served as the capital and witnessed the passage of various civilizations, including the Cholas, South Indian Hindus, and Buddhist Sinhalese, between the 12th and 13th centuries.
As you explore, you'll find yourself surrounded by archeological treasures, including a wealth of temples, shrines, palaces, and ruins. Visit the royal palace of King Parakramabahu I, a once-magnificent structure with 50 rooms, of which the impressive walls still stand today. The king's audience hall is guarded by lion sculptures at the stairways, while intricately carved stone elephants line the walls. Nearby, the king’s swimming pool features large crocodile mouth statues that once spouted fresh water. Tucked away in a small forest clearing, you'll also find Shiva Devale No.2, the oldest Hindu temple in Polonnaruwa, constructed entirely of stone.
After soaking in the historical and cultural richness of Polonnaruwa, return to your hotel to unwind, reflecting on the day’s discoveries in the comfort of your accommodation.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 6: Sigiriya – Anuradhapura City Tour (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to Anuradhapura (Approx. 1hr 20mins)
• Explore the Ancient City of Anuradhapura, once known as the capital of Sri Lanka
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the resort, preparing for a journey into Sri Lanka's rich historical past. After breakfast, proceed to Anuradhapura, a drive of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, where you'll have the opportunity to explore one of the most significant ancient cities in Sri Lanka. Anuradhapura, established as the capital in the 4th century BC by King Pandukabaya, was meticulously planned with gardens, an advanced irrigation and water supply system, and even a sanitary system, making it a marvel of urban planning in its time.
As one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, Anuradhapura is renowned for its well-preserved ruins, which offer a glimpse into a once-thriving civilization. Now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura is one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world, where the echoes of history resonate through its ancient temples, stupas, and palaces. After your exploration of this historic city, return to your hotel to unwind, allowing the serene surroundings to help you relax and reflect on the day's journey through time.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 7: Sigiriya – Matale – Spice Garden – Gem Museum - Kandyan Cultural Dance Show (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to Kandy via Matale (Approx. 2hrs 45mins)
• Visit the Spice Garden, and explore the exotic spices of Sri Lanka
• Pay a Visit to a Gem Museum, and explore the Unique and Rare Gems in Sri Lanka
• Check into the Hotel and Unwind
• Later Witness the Traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance Show in Display
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the resort, setting the tone for a day of cultural discovery and scenic travel. After breakfast, proceed to Kandy via Matale, a journey of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Along the way, make a stop at the renowned Spice Garden, where you can explore the exotic spices that have made Sri Lanka famous for centuries. Here, you'll learn about the various spices, their uses, and even have the opportunity to purchase some to take home.
Next, visit the Gem Museum to discover the unique and rare gems that Sri Lanka is known for. The island is celebrated for its precious stones, and you'll get to see a stunning collection of gemstones, including the world-famous Ceylon sapphires. This visit offers a fascinating insight into the gem industry that has been a significant part of Sri Lanka's heritage. Upon arriving in Kandy, check into your hotel and unwind, taking some time to relax after your journey.
In the evening, prepare to be captivated by the Traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance Show. This performance is a highlight of Sri Lankan cultural heritage, featuring intricate dance moves and elaborate costumes that have enthralled audiences for centuries. The up-country dances, or udarata naturm, are believed to have origins partly in South India, as well as from ancient Indigenous dance rituals. These classical dance traditions are deeply woven into the fabric of Sri Lankan cultural and religious events, particularly during the Kandy Esala Perahera.
The Kandyan dance tradition was formally incorporated into the Kandy Esala Perahera in 1916, though its roots trace back to the kizomba kankariya, an ancient village ritual combining music and dance. The Indian influence on this dance form is thought to have come primarily from Kerala in the 18th century when dancers and musicians were invited to perform by the King of Kandy. After this mesmerizing cultural experience, return to your hotel for a restful evening.
Overnight in Kandy
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Kandy – Temple Tooth of Relic – Kandy City Tour (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Pay a visit to the Temple Tooth of Relic, where the Tooth of the Lord Buddha has been preserved since 4th Century
• Embark on a Kandy City Tour and take a stroll by the Kandy Lake
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the resort, preparing for an enriching day of cultural exploration in Kandy. After breakfast, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a site of immense significance where the left canine tooth of Gautama Buddha has been preserved since the 4th century. This revered temple is not only a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide but also holds substantial cultural value. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, it attracts thousands of local and international visitors each day.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is renowned for its unique Kandyan architectural style, combining elements from the traditional design of earlier shrines that housed the Sacred Tooth Relic in various kingdoms. The temple is situated in Kandy, close to the ancient Royal Palace to the north and the Udawaththa Kelaya forest reserve to the east. To the south lies the famous Kandy Lake, also known as Kiri Muhuda, and to the west, the Natha & Paththini Devala.
Admire the temple's intricate carvings and its rich adornments, crafted from materials such as gold, silver, bronze, and ivory. The temple's exquisite details and serene atmosphere offer a profound insight into the spiritual and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka.
Following your visit to the temple, embark on a Kandy City Tour, taking a leisurely stroll by the picturesque Kandy Lake. This serene lake, a focal point of the city, provides a peaceful setting for reflection and enjoyment of the surrounding natural beauty. After a day filled with historical and cultural experiences, return to your hotel to unwind and relax, soaking in the serene ambiance of Kandy.
Overnight in Kandy
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Ramboda Falls – Tea Plantation (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Proceed to Nuwara Eliya (Approx. 2hrs 45mins)
• En Route to Colombo – Sightseeing Ramboda Falls
• Visit a Tea Plantation and Factory and sample some of Tea you have tasted
• Check into the Hotel and Unwind
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the resort, setting you up for a day of scenic travel and exploration. After breakfast, proceed to Nuwara Eliya, a journey of approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. En route, you'll visit Ramboda Falls, a stunning cascade that offers a refreshing break and picturesque views. Once you arrive in Nuwara Eliya, immerse yourself in the world of Sri Lankan tea by visiting a tea plantation and factory. This region, renowned for its tea, boasts a unique climate and rugged terrain that contribute to its world-famous tea quality. You’ll have the opportunity to sample some of the finest tea and learn about the production process that makes Nuwara Eliya tea so exceptional.
Nuwara Eliya is known for being the highest and most rugged of Sri Lanka’s tea-growing districts, with cool, bracing air and winds scented with eucalyptus and wild mint. The climate here, characterized by moderate rainfall and cold, frosty nights, creates the ideal conditions for producing tea that is celebrated by connoisseurs globally.
In the early 1840s, the boom in Ceylon coffee led to the rapid development of tea plantations in this previously unexplored hill country. The pioneers who established these estates endured significant hardships, and the town of Nuwara Eliya that emerged was initially shaped by their needs and interests. It became a center for recreation and social activities, with clubs and sporting events playing a central role in the lives of its early inhabitants. After exploring Nuwara Eliya and its tea heritage, check into your hotel and unwind, enjoying the cool, crisp mountain air and the tranquil surroundings of this picturesque town.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plans – Little England City Tour (B, D)
Highlights
• Early Morning Hike up on the Horton Plains and walk towards the World’s End – Another UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
• Later take a Stroll around Nuwara Eliya City, also known as Little England City
Begin your day with an early morning hike at Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The hike will take you to the World’s End, a dramatic escarpment offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. This high-altitude park, designated in 1988, is situated between 2,100 and 2,300 meters above sea level and features a unique blend of montane grassland and cloud forest.
Horton Plains is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including many species endemic to this region. As you traverse the park's trails, you'll experience its serene beauty and observe a variety of flora and fauna that thrive in this unique environment.
After your invigorating hike, enjoy a well-deserved breakfast back at the resort, relishing the morning's adventures. Following breakfast, return to your hotel to unwind and soak in the peaceful surroundings.
In the afternoon, take a leisurely stroll around Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England". This charming town, with its colonial architecture and cool climate, evokes a distinctly British ambiance. Explore its quaint streets, picturesque parks, and historic buildings, which reflect the town's colonial past and offer a glimpse into its unique character.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 11: Nuwara Eliya – train to Ella (approx. 4 hours) – Nine Arch Bridge – Yala – Rava Falls (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Take the Scenic Train Ride* from Nanu Oya Railway Station to Picturesque Ella (Approx. 4hrs)
• Visit the Nine Arch Bridge
• Proceed to Yala (Approx. 1hrs 20mins)
• Sightseeing the Ravana Falls
• Check into the Hotel and Unwind
*Please note, that 1st Class Train Tickets are Subject to Availability
Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the resort before embarking on a journey that showcases some of Sri Lanka’s most scenic landscapes. Take a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya Railway Station to the picturesque town of Ella, a journey that lasts approximately 4 hours. This train ride is renowned for its breathtaking views of lush tea plantations, verdant valleys, and stunning mountain scenery. Please note that 1st Class train tickets are subject to availability.
Upon arrival in Ella, visit the Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the Bridge in the Sky. This remarkable viaduct, built during the colonial era, is an impressive feat of engineering designed to navigate a challenging nine-degree curve and steep gradient. The bridge stands as a testament to the skill and ingenuity of its builders, and it offers picturesque views and excellent photo opportunities.
After exploring Ella, proceed to Yala, a journey of approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes. En route, visit Ravana Falls, a majestic waterfall known for its beauty and cultural significance. The falls, named after the legendary figure from the Ramayana epic, provide a perfect spot for a refreshing break and some stunning photographs. Upon reaching Yala, check into your hotel and unwind, enjoying the serene environment and preparing for the adventures that lie ahead.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 12: Yalaa – Yala Naional Park – Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home - Galle – Bentota (B, D)
Highlights
• Early morning Private Jeep Safari at Yala National Park
• Breakfast at the hotel
• Visit Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
• Explore the Dutch Galle Fort
• Check into your hotel in Bentota and unwind
Start the day with an early morning Private Jeep Safari at Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s largest and most popular national parks. Famous for its leopard population, the park is also home to elephants, crocodiles, and hundreds of bird species. The beautiful mix of grasslands, forests, and lagoons creates a stunning backdrop for wildlife viewing.
After your safari, enjoy a hearty breakfast back at the hotel before heading to Udawalawe. Here, you’ll visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a sanctuary for orphaned elephant calves. The center’s mission is to rehabilitate these elephants before releasing them back into the wild, making it a unique experience for animal lovers.
From Udawalawe, continue to Galle and explore the historic Dutch Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Stroll through the ancient ramparts and discover the colonial architecture that reflects Galle’s rich past as a prominent trading port. In the late afternoon, arrive at your hotel in Bentota, where you can relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings after a day of adventure.
Overnight in Bentota
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13: Mangrove at the Madu River – Sea Turtle Conservation Centre (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Embark on a wonderful Boat ride through the Mangrove at the Madu River
• Later Visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre
• Return to the Hotel and Unwind
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the resort before embarking on an enchanting boat ride through the mangroves of the Madu River. This captivating journey along the Madu Ganga and Balapitiya Rivers offers a chance to witness a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat. As you glide through the serene waters, keep an eye out for water monitors, blue-eyed cormorants perched on floating branches, and fruit bats hanging upside down. You may also see infant monkeys clinging to fishermen as they navigate the river on narrow boats. The river’s jungle cruise might reveal crocodiles and water snakes, and don't miss the tiny rock island with its charming temple in the middle of the Madu Ganga.
Later, visit the Sea Turtle Conservation Centre, where you can observe five different species of turtles, including the Green Turtle, Hawksbill Turtle, Loggerhead Turtle, Olive Ridley Turtle, and the critically endangered Leatherback Turtle. This conservation center plays a vital role in protecting these magnificent creatures, especially the Leatherback Turtle, which is the largest of the species and is unfortunately on the brink of extinction. Return to your hotel and unwind, enjoying the rest of your day in the tranquil surroundings.
Overnight in Bentota
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Days 14 – 16: Bentota – no car & no guide (B, D)
Highlights
• Enjoy breakfast at the resort
• Spend the days on Leisure by the Beach and enjoy some water sports – Optional
• Enjoy the Hotel Amenities and Unwind
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the resort, setting the tone for a relaxing day ahead. Spend your day at leisure by the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful coastal scenery. If you're feeling adventurous, take advantage of the optional water sports available, adding a splash of excitement to your beach day. Whether you choose to ride the waves or simply relax by the shore, there’s plenty of opportunity to enjoy the sand and sea.
Make the most of the hotel amenities to unwind and indulge in a tranquil atmosphere. Dinner and an overnight stay in Bentota will round off your day perfectly, allowing you to savor the serene beauty of this coastal paradise.
Overnight in Bentota
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 17: Bentota Departure (B)
After enjoying a hearty breakfast, it's time to bid farewell. Check out from your hotel and relax as we transfer you seamlessly to the airport for your departure flight. We appreciate you choosing us for your journey and hope you had a memorable experience exploring Sri Lanka. Wishing you a safe and pleasant flight home.
Meal: Breakfast
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