Colombo and Negombo offer 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:

• Colombo City Tour (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(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)

The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and Sigiriya Rock Fortress provide insight 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:

• PInnawalaMillennium Elephant Foundation Visit(based on arrival time): 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.

• Village Tour: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.
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: 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. (Included)

Overnight Stay:

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

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage site, 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:

• Polonnaruwa Ancient City Tour: Wander through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, exploring sites like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara’s stunning Buddha statues, and the Vatadage, which showcases the remarkable artistry of the ancient Sinhalese.
• Minneriya/Kawdulla National Park Safari: Experience an exciting safari where 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)

The city of 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:

• Royal Cave Temple (Dambulla Cave Temple): 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.
• Spice Garden in Matale: Discover the uses and healing properties of Sri Lanka’s famous spices, with tastings and demonstrations.
• Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: 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
• Cultural Show: In the evening, 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)orAmaya Hills (Superior)

Nuwara Eliya, or “Little England,” is known for its scenic tea plantations, colonial charm, and cool climate. The journey also includes highlights like the Royal Botanical Garden and gem museum.

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

Activities:

• Gem Museum: This museum offers a fascinating look at Sri Lanka’s gemstone industry, known worldwide for its sapphires and rubies. Visitors can learn about the process of gemstone mining, view rare and beautiful gems, and explore the historical significance of gems in Sri Lanka.
• Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden: As one of Asia’s largest botanical gardens, Peradeniya 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 stunning flower displays, making it a tranquil and scenic retreat for nature enthusiasts.

• Tea Factory Visit: Witness the journey of Ceylon tea from leaf to cup at a local tea plantation and factory. Learn about traditional tea-making methods, sample various teas, and take in the rolling green landscapes of Nuwara Eliya

• Nuwara Eliya City Tour: Stroll through the town’s colonial-era buildings, Victoria Park, and take in the scenic 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)

The scenic train ride from Nanu-Oya to Ella is 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:

• Scenic Train Journey: 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 routeprovides unforgettable views and opportunities for beautiful photographs.
• Nine Arches Bridge (if time permits): Visit 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.
• Ravana Waterfall: This 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)

Yala National Park is home to leopards, elephants, and a variety of bird species, while Mirissa, Weligama, and Dickwella offer beautiful beaches and seaside relaxation.

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

Activities:

• Morning Safari in Yala National Park: 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.
• Natural Blow Hole (Hummanaya) near Dickwella: This unique geological site produces dramatic waterspouts during high tide.
• Beach Relaxation & Scenic Views: Unwind on the pristine beaches of Mirissa, Weligama, or Dickwella, taking in the coastal views.

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)

The day combines the thrill of whale watching with historical exploration at Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 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:

• Whale Watching: 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 Activity)
• Explore Galle Fort: Walk through this 16th-century 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
• Madu River Safari: Embark on a relaxing boat ride through the serene Madu River, 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
• Turtle Hatchery: Visit a turtle conservation project 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)

Colombo’s mix of history, modernity, and commerce makes it an ideal final stop for shopping, dining, and cultural exploration.

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

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

Activities:

• Colombo City Tour: 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.

• Departure:Thereafter, proceed to the airport in time for your return flight.

Meals:

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

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