Welcome to Sri Lanka, a truly unique destination. Negombo offers a mix of urban and coastal charm, introducing visitors to Sri Lanka’s dynamic energy and historic landmarks. Negombo is known for its lagoon and vibrant fishing community, while Colombo blends colonial heritage with modern vibrancy.

Travel Time:
Bandaranaike International Airport to Negombo: 30 minutes (10 km).

Activities:

• Once you arrive at Colombo CMB airport, your tour leader will greet you and transfer you to your hotel (pickup from any hotel in Colombo or Negombo can also be arranged). Your first stop will be the coastal town of Negombo, just 30 minutes from the airport. Known for its golden sandy beaches, delicious cuisine, and vibrant atmosphere, Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beach destinations.
• Colombo City Tour (If time permits/ based on arrival time): Explore Sri Lanka’s bustling capital with highlights such as Galle Face Green, Independence Memorial Hall, and Gangaramaya Temple. Visit the vibrant Pettah Market and take in the contrast between colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers.
• Negombo Lagoon Tour (If time permits/ based on arrival time): A boat ride along the Negombo Lagoon offers serene views of mangroves, birdlife, and local fishermen at work.

Meals:

• Dinner: At the hotel in Negombo. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

Negombo –Regal Réseau Hotel & Spa (Deluxe) or Club Hotel Dolphin(Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll embark on the Pinnawala Millennium Elephant Foundation and the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which offer insights into Sri Lanka’s unique wildlife and ancient history. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the island’s most iconic landmarks.

Travel Time:
Negombo to Pinnawla: 2.5 hours (85 km).

Pinnawla to Sigiriya :2.5 hours (105 km).

Activities:

• En route to Dambulla, you’ll stop at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. Connect with Sri Lanka’s cherished elephants in a responsible and conservation-focused environment. Guided walks with elephants offer a close view into their world, while feeding experiences provide insight into their diet and habits. The foundation emphasizes ethical elephant care, making this a memorable and responsible encounter.
• Upon arrival at Sigiriya, you’ll enjoy a wonderful Cultural Village Tour while exploring the beautiful countryside. Dive into local village life with a guided tour that includes a bullock cart ride, a canoe ride on a scenic lake, and a traditional lunch served on lotus leaves. Witness how local farming and crafts are done, gaining insight into rural Sri Lankan customs and hospitality.
• Afternoon, you will visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE), Ascend the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient marvel rising 200 meters above lush forests. As you climb, explore ancient frescoes and reach the summit to discover the ruins of a royal palace. The views from the top are stunning, offering sweeping panoramas and a powerful connection to Sri Lanka’s rich history.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Negombo. (Included)
• Lunch: Local restaurant en route to Sigiriya.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Sigiriya. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

Sigiriya/Dambulla –Kassapa Lion Rock(Deluxe) or Hotel Sigiriya(Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll embark on Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, that holds the remnants of Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdom with intricately carved statues, temples, and royal baths. The evening safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park offers a unique chance to witness Sri Lanka’s stunning biodiversity, including the famous elephant gatherings. 

Travel Time:
Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa: 1.5 hours (55 km)
Polonnaruwa to Minneriya/Kawdulla National Park: 1 hour (45 km)

Activities:

• After breakfast, visit the Polonnaruwa Ancient City. Explore this historic site and discover attractions such as the Royal Palace, the stunning Buddha statues at Gal Vihara, and the Vatadage, which highlights the remarkable artistry of the ancient Sinhalese.
• In the afternoon, experience an exciting 4×4 Jeep Safari in Minneriya/Kawdulla National Park. On this safari, elephants roam freely among other wildlife, such as deer, monkeys, and exotic birds, in one of Asia’s largest seasonal elephant gatherings.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Sigiriya. (Included)
• Lunch: In Polonnaruwa, at a local restaurant.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Sigiriya. (Included)

Overnight Stay:
Sigiriya/Dambulla –Kassapa Lion Rock(Deluxe) or Hotel Sigiriya(Superior)

Following breakfast, head to Kandy, the former capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom. Nestled on a plateau encircled by mountains, Kandy is known for its cultural significance, housing the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. En route, explore the heritage of spices at Matale and the historic cave temples of Dambulla.

Travel Time:
Sigiriya to Dambulla: 30 minutes (18 km).
Dambulla to Matale: 1 hour (45 km).
Matale to Kandy: 1 hour (40 km).

Activities:

• After breakfast, you can visit the Royal Cave Temple Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the UNESCO-listed caves adorned with hundreds of Buddha statues and frescoes depicting religious narratives. The intricate artwork, carved into the rock walls, illustrates the deep devotion and history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. The temple complex is situated on a hill, providing sweeping views of the plains below—a spiritual and scenic experience.
• Afterwards, you will visit Matale Herbal Garden to discover the uses and healing properties of Sri Lanka’s famous Herbal plants, with tastings and demonstrations.
• Upon arrival to Kandy, you may visit the Temple of Tooth Relic (UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE) One of the most revered Buddhist temples, this sacred site holds a tooth relic of Buddha and is set in a stunning lakeside complex. Explore the rich spiritual heritage and admire the intricate architecture and artwork that makes this a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Evening, you’ll engage with a Cultural Dance Show and witness a vibrant performance showcasing traditional Kandyan dances, drumming, and fire-walking, providing an exciting and immersive experience into Sri Lanka’s cultural traditions.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Sigiriya. (Included)
• Lunch: Traditional Sri Lankan lunch at Spice Garden.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Kandy.(Included)

Overnight Stay:

Kandy –Kandy Topaz (Deluxe) or Amaya Hills (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll embark on Kitulgala, known for lush rainforests and adventure sports, which is famous as the filming location for The Bridge on the River Kwai and offers exciting activities like white-water rafting and ascending the unique Ambuluwawa Tower, offering panoramic views of the breathtaking countryside.

Travel Time:
Kandy to Kitulgala for rafting: 1.5 hours (70 km).
Kitulgala to Ambuluwawa Tower: 1.5 hours (50 km).

Activities:

• In the morning, you will experience the thrilling adventure of White-Water Rafting on the Kelani River. This adrenaline-pumping activity takes you through scenic landscapes featuring Class II and III rapids.
• Afterward, visit the Ambuluwawa Tower. Climb this impressive multi-cultural tower that spirals into the sky and enjoy breathtaking views of the mountains, forests, and rivers below. The tower is surrounded by lush flora and provides an awe-inspiring 360-degree perspective of the hill country.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Kandy. (Included)
• Lunch: En route at Kitulgala.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Kandy. (Included)

Overnight Stay:
Kandy –Kandy Topaz (Deluxe) or Amaya Hills (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a delightful trip to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s tea region. Known as ‘Little England,’ this city features numerous buildings from the British colonial era, including the Queen’s Cottage, the General’s House, the Grand Hotel, the Hill Club, and the Town Post Office.

Travel Time:
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya: 2.5 hours (77 km).

Activities:

• In the morning, you will start your day at the Gem Museum, where you can explore Sri Lanka’s rich gem heritage. The museum features a display of sapphires, rubies, and more, offering insights into gem mining and the craftsmanship involved in jewelry making.
• Afterward, visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, one of Asia’s largest botanical gardens. It boasts over 4,000 species of plants, including orchids, spices, and towering palms. A guided stroll through the garden reveals exotic plants, medicinal herbs, and breathtaking flower displays, making it a tranquil and scenic retreat for nature enthusiasts.
• Next, experience a visit to a Tea Factory. Here, you can witness the journey of Ceylon tea from leaf to cup. Learn about traditional tea-making methods, sample various teas, and enjoy the rolling green landscapes of Nuwara Eliya.
• In the evening, take a Nuwara Eliya City Tour. Stroll through the town’s colonial-era buildings, visit Victoria Park, and enjoy the scenic views of Gregory Lake.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Kandy.(Included)
• Lunch: Light Sri Lankan lunch at a tea plantation café.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Nuwara Eliya.(Included)

Overnight Stay:

Nuwara Eliya –Lyndone Grove (Deluxe) or Araliya Red (Superior

Following breakfast , will explore the scenic train ride from Nanu-Oya to Ella one of the world’s most beautiful, passing through tea plantations, lush forests, and misty mountains.

Travel Time:
Nuwara Eliya to Nanu-Oya Station: 20 minutes.
Train from Nanu-Oya to Ella: 3 hours.

Activities:

• In the morning, you’ll embark on a Stunning Train Ride from Nanu-Oya station to Ella village, witness. Renowned as one of the world’s most scenic train journeys, this ride through misty hills, tea plantations, and forested landscapes is a highlight for any traveler. Breathtaking landscapes, including valleys, waterfalls, and quaint villages along the route provide unforgettable views and opportunities for beautiful photographs. (Train tickets will be arranged at the station / Class category is subject to availability).
• Discover Ella (if time permits), a beloved hill country village celebrated for its beautiful natural surroundings. Key attractions include the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era engineering set amidst lush greenery. Watching a train pass over this bridge is a must-see, and the surrounding paths offer a peaceful hike.
• A moderate hike to Little Adam’s Peak rewards you with stunning 360-degree views of the Ella Gap. This experience provides both adventure and tranquility, with scenic views and cool mountain air.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Nuwara Eliya. (Included)
• Lunch: Light snacks during the train journey.
• Dinner: At a local restaurant in Ella.

Overnight Stay:

Ella – Oak Ray Ella Gap (Deluxe) or Flower Garden (Superior)

After breakfast, you will explore the beauty of Ella’s surrounding attractions, including the panoramic views at Lipton’s Seat, the magnificent Diyaluma Falls, and the historical charm of Adisham Bungalow.

Travel Time:
Ella to Lipton’s Seat: 1.5 hours (30 km).
Lipton’s Seat to Diyaluma Waterfall: 1.5 hours (45 km).
Diyaluma to Adisham Bungalow: 1 hour (25 km).

Activities:

• In the morning, you will visit Lipton’s Seat, a famous viewpoint that offers sweeping vistas of tea estates and distant hills, a site cherished by Sir Thomas Lipton. The sunrise views from this location are particularly breathtaking.
• Next, you will head to Diyaluma Waterfall, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Here, you can marvel at the cascading waters, which create a beautiful backdrop for hiking and exploring rock pools. Take the opportunity to enjoy a refreshing dip or embark on a leisurely hike around this natural wonder.
• Afterward, you will visit Adisham Bungalow, a Benedictine monastery that was once the home of a British planter. Surrounded by fragrant gardens, the bungalow provides a glimpse into colonial architecture and heritage.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Ella. (Included)
• Lunch: En route in Bandarawela.
• Dinner: At a local restaurant in Ella.

Overnight Stay:
Ella – Oak Ray Ella Gap (Deluxe) or Flower Garden (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll embark on a day that combines natural beauty with a thrilling wildlife experience in Yala National Park, known for its leopard sightings and rich biodiversity.

Travel Time:
Ella to Tissamaharama: 2 hours (90 km).

Activities:

• En route you can visit the Ravana Waterfall the picturesque waterfall near Ella is a popular sightseeing spot and ideal for a quick photo stop.
• Afternoon, you’ll experience an exciting 4×4 Jeep Safari in Yala National Park, where you’ll embark on a thrilling evening safari through Yala National Park, famous for its leopard sightings. The diverse wildlife, from elephants to spotted deer, makes this an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and photographers.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Ella. (Included)
• Lunch: En route to Yala.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Yala. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

Yala –Chaarya Resort and Spa (Deluxe) or Cinnamon Wild (Superior)

After breakfast, you will embark on a journey from the wilderness of Yala to the tranquil landscapes of Deniyaya, a town located on the edge of the Sinharaja Rainforest. Renowned for its natural beauty and rich biodiversity, Deniyaya provides a peaceful retreat and allows for a deeper connection to Sri Lanka’s rainforests.

Travel Time:
Yala to Deniyaya: 3 hours (110 km).

Activities:

• Experience a morning drive with scenic views as you traverse the lush countryside and tranquil villages on your way to Deniyaya. This journey offers a unique opportunity to witness Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, ranging from open grasslands to dense rainforests.
• In the evening, enjoy a moment of relaxation in the peaceful surroundings of Deniyaya. You can unwind at your accommodation while absorbing the soothing sounds of nature or take a leisurely stroll through the nearby tea plantations and gardens.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Yala. (Included)
• Lunch: En route to Deniyaya.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Deniyaya. (Included)

Overnight Stay:
Deniyaya – Rainforest Eco Lodge (Deluxe) or The Blue Magpie Lodge (Superior)

After breakfast, you will explore the UNESCO-listed Sinharaja Rainforest, renowned for its exceptional biodiversity and rare flora and fauna, followed by a relaxing evening on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

Travel Time:
Deniyaya to Weligama/Mirissa: Approx. 2 hours (80 km)

Activities:

• Morning explore Sri Lanka’s largest rainforest, the Sinharaja Rainforest. Trek through a dense canopy, encounter endemic plant species, and observe diverse wildlife. Guided by a naturalist, you will walk along the scenic trails of Sinharaja, soaking in the natural beauty and tranquility of this ancient forest.
• Upon arrival at your hotel, you may grab a towel to Relax on the Beach while enjoying a cocktail or a chill beer under the shade of a palm tree.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Deniyaya. (Included)
• Lunch: En route to Weligama/Mirissa.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Weligama/Mirissa. (Included)

Overnight Stay:
Weligama/Dickwella–22 Weligambay(Deluxe) or Dikwella Beach Resort and Spa (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll head out to experience the awe-inspiring sight of migrating whales in their natural habitat during a whale-watching tour, followed by a relaxing afternoon on the picturesque beaches of the southern coast.

Activities:

• At dawn, join an exhilarating Whale-Watching Tour, where you might spot blue whales, dolphins, and other marine life. The sight of these majestic creatures in their natural habitat is a true highlight. (Seasonal and optional Activity)
• Upon arrival at your hotel, you may grab a towel to Relax on the Beach while enjoying a cocktail or a chill beer under the shade of a palm tree.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Weligama/Mirissa. (Included)
• Lunch: At a seaside restaurant or nearby.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Weligama/Mirissa. (Included)

Overnight Stay:
Weligama/Dickwella–22 Weligambay(Deluxe) or Dikwella Beach Resort and Spa (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll head to Galle. The day combines the historical exploration at Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site the blend of Dutch and British colonial architecture with a tropical backdrop creates a vibrant and picturesque atmosphere. The Madu River and Turtle Hatchery offer an opportunity to see local conservation efforts.

Travel Time:
Mirissa to Galle: 1 hour (40 km).
Galle to Bentota: 1.5 hours (60 km).

Activities:

• Morning drive down to Galle, walk through this 16th-century Galle Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site with charming colonial architecture and cobblestone streets. The fort is a blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences, with cafes, art galleries, and historical landmarks along the way. Historical Galle Lighthouse stands proudly on the southeast tip of the fort.
• Next experience embarks on a relaxing boat ride through the serene Madu River through the mangroves (red water trees), navigating past mangroves and small islands, where you’ll encounter wildlife, including birds and monitor lizards. Explore the local cinnamon industry and enjoy scenic island views
• Afterwards, you’ll visit a Turtle Hatchery Center where you can learn about and observe sea turtles at various stages of development, from hatchlings to adults, emphasizing efforts to protect endangered species.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Weligama/Dickwella. (Included)
• Lunch: At a café within Galle Fort.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Bentota. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

Bentota–The Palms Beruwala(Deluxe) or AVANI Bentota Resort (Superior)

After breakfast, you’ll explore Colombo, the capital city with a history dating back to the fifth century. Once a vital part in the East-West Sea trade, Colombo has evolved into a vibrant modern city. Its lively streets, diverse restaurants, and contemporary shopping malls draw crowds of both locals and tourists.

Travel Time:
Bentota to Colombo: 2.5 hours (70 km).

Colombo to Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo): 45 Minutes (35 km)

Activities:

• Upon arrival at Colombo, you’ll have a Colombo City Tour from which you can visit all the highlighted places in the city such as Red Mosque, Gangarama temple, Independent Square, and so on.
• Thereafter, proceed to the airport in time for your return flight or we drop you back at your hotel in Colombo or Negombo.
• Goodbye from Exotic Perla!

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Bentota. (Included)
• Lunch: In Colombo or en route to the airport.

Departure:
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey.