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 Pinnawala: 2.5 hours (85 km).

Pinnawala 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)

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 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. Yala National Park offers an immersive wildlife experience. 

Travel Time:
Nuwara Eliya to Nanu-Oya Station: 20 minutes.
Train from Nanu-Oya to Ella: 3 hours.
Ella to Yala: 2 hours (90 km).

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..
• 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.

Meals:

• Breakfast: At the hotel in Nuwara Eliya. (Included)
• Lunch: Packed lunch for the train journey.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Yala. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

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

After an amazing trip through coconut palms, mountains, and waterfalls, you’ll reach the renowned beaches of Sri Lanka. Mirissa/Dickwella, once a hidden gem, now features a few restaurants and pubs for visitors. This stunning location boasts white sands and coconut palms extending right to the water’s edge, resembling a postcard-perfect tropical paradise.

Travel Time:
Yala to Weligama/Dickwella: 2-3 hours (130 km).

Activities:

• In the morning, you’ll experience an exciting 4×4 Jeep Safari in Yala National Park, where you’ll embark on a thrilling morning 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.
• En route you’ll visit Hummanaya natural Blow Hole which is a unique geological site that produces dramatic waterspouts during high tide.
• 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: Early breakfast at the hotel in Yala. (Included)
• Lunch: Seafood restaurant along the coast.
• Dinner: At the hotel in Weligama/Dickwella. (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 thrill of whale watching with 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:

• 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)
• Afternoon 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.