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Itineraries
Day 1
ARRIVAL – NEGOMBO
You will arrive in Colombo in the morning and then transfer to Negombo, which takes approximately 20 minutes.
Day 2
ANURADHAPURA
Today, after checking out from your hotel, you will proceed to Anuradhapura. En route, you will explore the historical and cultural landmarks of this ancient city.
Anuradhapura, a major city located in Sri Lanka's North Central Province, is steeped in history and was one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka. It lies 205 kilometers north of Colombo, on the banks of the Malwathu Oya river.
The city's history dates back to around 1000 BC, when its original inhabitants laid the foundations of Sri Lanka's advanced agricultural practices and cultural heritage. The people of this era used iron tools, created clay utensils, and applied innovative irrigation techniques. One of the most significant aspects of this period is the burial grounds, which serve as the only available evidence of this ancient civilization. These sites include those at Ibbankatuwa, Yatigalpotta near Dambulla, Pomparippu at Wilpattu National Park, and Gal Sohon Kanatta.
Upon arrival in Anuradhapura, you will visit these remarkable archaeological sites and learn about the rich history of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization.
Day 3
ANURADHAPURA (UNESCO Heritage sites)
After breakfast at the hotel, you will depart by 10 AM to visit the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka.
Day 4
HABARANA
After checkout from the hotel, proceed to Habarana. Enjoy a 2.5-hour Habarana Village tour, which offers a unique chance to experience the nature and culture of a real Sri Lankan village. Your guide will take you by tuk-tuk to Hiriwadunna village, where you'll enjoy a bullock cart ride, a boat ride across the village pond, and a walk through paddy fields and vegetable farms. At a village house, relax and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. Afterward, take a tuk-tuk ride back to your hotel.
If time allows, you can also take an elephant safari at Minneriya National Park, home to the world’s largest gathering of Asian elephants, with herds of up to 350 elephants, especially during the dry season.
Day 5
POLONNARUWA (UNESCO Heritage sites)
Polonnaruwa, historically known as Pulathisipura and Vijayarajapura, is the main town in the Polonnaruwa District of North Central Province, Sri Lanka. The modern town, also called New Town, sits alongside the royal ancient city of the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa.
Polonnaruwa served as the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993. It features not only Brahmanic monuments built by the Cholas but also the impressive ruins of a garden-city created by King Parakramabahu in the 12th century.
After exploring the Polonnaruwa ruins, which take approximately 3 hours of walking, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before heading back to the hotel.
Day 6
SIGIRIYA (UNESCO Heritage sites)
After breakfast, you will depart from the hotel to visit two of Sri Lanka's iconic landmarks: Sigiriya and Dambulla.
Sigiriya Lion Rock: Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress renowned for its towering rock column that rises nearly 200 meters above the surrounding landscape. Dating back to the reign of King Kasyapa (477-495 AD), Sigiriya served as his capital. The site is famous for its frescoes adorning the rock walls, and at the summit, you'll find the ruins of a palace that could only be accessed via the carved mouth of a giant lion.
Dambulla Golden Cave Temple: Located in central Sri Lanka, the Dambulla Cave Temple is one of the largest and most well-preserved Buddhist temple complexes in the Southern and South Eastern Asian region. The five cave shrines date back to the 3rd century BCE and have been continuously inhabited by Buddhist monks. These natural caves have been transformed over centuries into intricate shrines, featuring exceptional polychrome sculptures and vibrant murals. The layout of the caves leads worshippers through a spiritual journey, reflecting the site's longstanding tradition of living Buddhist rituals. The complex continues to be a center of pilgrimage and Buddhist practice.
After these remarkable visits, you will proceed with the rest of the day's schedule.
Day 7
KANDY
After breakfast, you will check out from the hotel at 9:00 AM and proceed towards Kandy, making a visit along the way to a Spice Garden where you can learn about Sri Lankan spices. You will also enjoy a 15-minute Ayurvedic head massage during the tour, which is a free guided experience.
Upon reaching Kandy, you will visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka, housing the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Kandy is the last capital of the Sinhala kings and the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, surrounded by majestic mountains and known for its rich history and culture.
In the evening, you can attend the Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show. The show, which starts at 5:00 PM, offers a vibrant display of Sri Lankan dance and arts, showcasing various traditional dance forms. Your chauffeur will assist in purchasing tickets and securing your seats for the performance.
This combination of cultural visits, relaxation, and entertainment will make for an enriching day in Kandy.
Day 8
KANDY & AROUND
After breakfast, you will leave the hotel at 8:00 AM for a day of exploration in Kandy, visiting a series of significant sites and learning about Sri Lanka’s rich handmade crafts and productions.
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Bahirawakanda Temple: The Sri Maha Bodhi Viharaya is famous for its towering Buddha statue that stands over 25 meters tall. The statue is visible from almost every part of the city and represents Buddha in the Nirvana pose, symbolizing his first Enlightenment. This temple offers a peaceful atmosphere and a fantastic view of Kandy.
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Kandy View Point: Enjoy a stunning panoramic view of the city of Kandy, with its picturesque lake, lush hills, and the surrounding areas, providing a perfect photo opportunity.
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Royal Botanical Garden: Located just outside the city, the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya is home to a vast collection of plants, including tropical flora and medicinal herbs. The garden is beautifully laid out and offers a peaceful environment for a walk.
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Ceylon Batik Clothing Factory Visit: You will visit a Batik factory to see the traditional process of creating Sri Lankan batik clothing. This free guided tour will give you insight into how these beautiful garments are made using wax-resist dyeing techniques.
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Sri Lanka Handicraft Factory Visit: Next, you will visit a handicraft factory where you can observe the craftsmanship behind the intricate woodwork, pottery, and other traditional Sri Lankan handicrafts. This guided tour offers an opportunity to understand the skills involved in producing these unique items.
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Tea Plantation & Factory Visit: Lastly, you will explore a Sri Lankan tea plantation. Sri Lanka is famous for its high-quality tea, and this visit will allow you to see the tea production process from picking the leaves to packing the tea. You will also have the chance to taste freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
This day will provide you with a thorough understanding of Sri Lankan culture, its handcrafted arts, and the beauty of Kandy’s surroundings.
Day 9
KITHULGALA
Today, after breakfast, we will travel to the small town of Kithulgala, known for its natural beauty and outdoor adventure activities. This will be a relaxing yet action-packed stop after a week of touring.
Kithulgala is famous as the location where the iconic film Bridge on the River Kwai was filmed. While there’s not much left of the bridge itself, the area offers a tranquil escape with lush greenery, river views, and opportunities for outdoor adventures.
Key Activities for the Day:
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White Water Rafting: Kithulgala is one of Sri Lanka's top spots for white water rafting. You’ll experience the thrill of navigating the Kelani River, with its rapids offering a mix of excitement and natural beauty.
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Canyoning: For those looking for an extra challenge, you can also opt for canyoning, which involves descending through waterfalls and rivers, often including jumps, slides, and rappels. It’s a great way to connect with nature in a more adventurous way.
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Hiking Tour: A guided hiking tour will allow you to explore the lush terrain surrounding Kithulgala. The region’s rainforest environment is a perfect setting for those looking to immerse themselves in nature and enjoy the fresh air.
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Confidence Jump (Optional): For the adventurous, a confidence jump into a cool river pool is available, offering a fun and thrilling way to face your fears and enjoy nature from a new perspective.
Evening:
After an adventurous day, unwind and relax by the bonfire and enjoy a BBQ dinner. This will be a wonderful opportunity to reflect on your journey, enjoy local food, and spend time with fellow travelers in a serene and peaceful environment.
Please note that traveling in Sri Lanka may take longer than expected due to high traffic and chaotic driving conditions, but that’s part of the charm of the country. It’s a truly unique experience, and the slower pace gives you a chance to observe the local life and appreciate the surroundings more deeply.
Day 10
ELLA BY SCINIC TRAIN RIDE
Today, you will experience one of the most scenic and iconic train rides in the world. The train journey between Nanu Oya and Ella is renowned for its breathtaking views of Sri Lanka's lush landscapes, tea plantations, and misty mountains. This experience will be unforgettable despite the rustic comfort of the train.
Schedule for the Day:
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Train Ride from Nanu Oya to Ella:
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You’ll need to be at Nanu Oya Station by 12:00 PM sharp.
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The train departs at 12:40 PM.
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During the journey, enjoy the stunning views from the train. Feel free to walk near the doorsteps for some incredible photos, but do ensure your safety while doing so.
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Carry some snacks and water for the ride to stay refreshed.
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Arrival in Ella:
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The train ride will take approximately 2 hours, and you should reach Ella Station by 3:30 PM.
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Once you arrive in Ella, you can relax and unwind after the scenic journey.
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Lunch in Ella:
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Head to Chill Restaurant or a place of your choice for lunch, where you can enjoy some delicious Sri Lankan food. This will be a great opportunity to explore the local cuisine and unwind after your adventure-filled train ride.
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About Ella:
Ella is a beautiful town located in the Badulla District of Uva Province. Sitting at an elevation of 1,041 meters above sea level, it offers a cooler climate and is known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. Surrounded by lush forests, waterfalls, and tea plantations, Ella is the perfect place to relax and take in the stunning surroundings. The town is also home to Ella Rock, Nine Arches Bridge, and other must-see spots, making it a great place to spend some leisure time.
Day 11
ADVENTURES IN ELLA
Today, after breakfast, you'll head out at 9:00 AM to embark on the Little Adam's Peak hike, a great way to explore the natural beauty of Ella.
Itinerary for the Day:
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Little Adam’s Peak Hike:
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The hike to Little Adam’s Peak is one of the best experiences in Ella, offering panoramic views of the surrounding tea plantations and mountains.
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The hike is relatively easy, with a well-marked path and signposts, so it’s perfect even for first-time hikers.
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While the trail is frequented by many tourists, it’s still an exhilarating experience with a rewarding view at the summit.
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The peak resembles Adam's Peak in shape, but is smaller and more accessible, hence the name.
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Nine Arches Bridge:
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After the hike, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, built in 1921 during the British colonial period.
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The bridge is an engineering marvel and offers an excellent photo opportunity.
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Surrounded by lush green hills and jungle, the location offers stunning views that will leave you mesmerized.
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Optional Activity: Zip Line Adventure:
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If you’re up for an adventure, you can take part in a Zip Line experience, which is a fun and thrilling way to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective.
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This day combines a refreshing hike with a cultural and historical stop, offering you a deeper connection with the natural and architectural beauty of Ella.
Day 12
YALA
Today’s Itinerary:
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Checkout from Hotel at 9:00 AM:
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After breakfast, check out from your hotel and proceed to Yala.
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Ravana Falls Visit:
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On the way to Yala, stop at the Ravana Falls, a stunning waterfall with historical and mythological significance.
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According to legend, King Ravana kidnapped Princess Sita and hid her in the caves behind the waterfall, known as Ravana Ella Cave.
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The site offers a serene natural setting, perfect for photos and exploring the myths tied to this famous landmark.
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Lunch at Refresh Restaurant, Tissamaharama:
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After visiting the falls, continue the journey to Tissamaharama and have lunch at the Refresh Restaurant around 12:30 PM.
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Arrive at Yala for Safari (2:00 PM):
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Proceed to Yala National Park for the much-anticipated leopard safari.
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Yala is one of Sri Lanka’s most famous national parks, home to the world’s largest concentration of leopards, as well as elephants, sloth bears, peacocks, and many other species.
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The park is best visited during February to July, when water levels are lower, allowing animals to gather more openly.
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You'll be entering the park for the evening safari session by 2:00 PM, offering an incredible opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat.
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Today will be an exciting combination of historical exploration and wildlife adventure! The visit to Ravana Falls sets the tone, followed by an unforgettable safari in Yala National Park.
Day 13
BENTOTA
Today’s Itinerary:
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Early Morning Packed Breakfast:
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Begin your day early with a packed breakfast as you head towards Bentota.
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Mirissa Coconut Tree Hill:
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First stop at Mirissa Coconut Tree Hill, an iconic spot known for its panoramic views of the coastline and palm tree-lined hilltop. A perfect spot for photography and appreciating the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.
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Unawatuna Beach:
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Next, visit Unawatuna Beach, a popular and tranquil spot for relaxation or water activities. You can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, explore the golden sandy shores, or take a dip in the ocean.
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Stilt Fishing:
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Experience stilt fishing, a traditional Sri Lankan fishing method where fishermen sit on poles above the water and fish. This unique activity offers a glimpse into the local fishing culture and is great for photography.
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Visit Galle (UNESCO World Heritage Site):
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Continue to Galle, a historic city that was once under Dutch colonial rule. The Galle Dutch Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage site with rich history and stunning views of the ocean. A guided tour will take you through the fort, showcasing its architecture and historical significance.
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Lunch in Galle:
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Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at a local restaurant in Galle.
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Optional Activities in Galle and Bentota:
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Surfing Lesson at Unawatuna Beach (Optional): If you're interested in surfing, take a lesson at one of Sri Lanka's top surfing destinations.
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Bentota Water Sports Activities (Optional): Upon arriving in Bentota, explore thrilling water sports activities such as jet skiing, wakeboarding, or banana boat rides.
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Maadu River Boat Safari: Take a boat ride through the lush mangrove forests of Maadu River, an eco-friendly adventure that lets you explore the unique ecosystem.
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This day is packed with unique activities, cultural exploration, and relaxation by the coast. Enjoy the historical richness of Galle, the natural beauty of the beaches, and adventurous water sports at Bentota.
Day 14
LEISURE AT BENTOTA
Today, in the first half of the day, during your stay at Bentota, you’ll have the chance to enjoy a boat ride through the mangroves and cinnamon islands in Balapitiya, followed by a visit to the Sea Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda. After these activities, if you feel exhausted, your local chauffeur will adjust the rest of the day’s plan to suit your convenience. Once the morning activities are complete, you’ll have time to relax by the beach after lunch.
Day 15
LEISURE AT BENTOTA
Day 16
NEGOMBO VIA COOKERY DEMONSTRATION
Today, check out from the hotel at 8am after breakfast and head towards Negombo. On the way, you'll have a half-day sightseeing tour of Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka.
You will visit:
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Colombo City Tour
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Independent Square
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Galle Face Green
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Dutch Hospital
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Old Parliament Secretariat
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Commercial Shopping Arcades
Upon arrival in Negombo in the evening, you’ll experience a local cooking demonstration, where you'll learn to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes using fresh, local ingredients. The classes are designed for foreign travelers in small groups.
Negombo, located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, is known for its 17th-century Dutch Fort, now housing a prison, and the picturesque Negombo Lagoon. The town is also home to St. Mary’s Church, with a ceiling adorned with vivid religious paintings. To end the day, enjoy a luxury seafood dinner on the hotel’s pool deck.
Day 17
TRANSFER TO AIRPORT FOR DEPARTURE.
END OF A SUCCESSUL 17 DAYS JOURNEY IN SRI LANKA
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