Journey Through Sri Lanka: A Cultural and Wildlife Odyssey

Day 1:Welcome to Sri Lanka
Airport – Negombo (20 km – 30 minutes)

WELCOME TO SRI LANKA!!!
Let the adventure begin! Your driver or guide will greet you at Colombo International Airport, and you’ll head to Negombo to recover from your journey. You can visit barefoot, but wearing a pair of light socks is advisable on hot days to avoid burning your feet. Return and check into your hotel.

OVERNIGHT IN NEGOMBO
Standard Hotel

Day 2: Tuk-Tuk Tour in a Bustling Colombo Neighborhood and Journey to Sigiriya
Negombo – Colombo (20 km – 30 minutes)
Colombo – Sigiriya (170 km – 4 hours)
After breakfast, head to Colombo for a tuk-tuk safari (2 hours).
Around 9 AM, board a tuk-tuk for a lively tour of Pettah, Colombo’s bustling district. Guided by your host, visit key religious sites, such as Shri Ponnambalawaneswaram Kovil Hindu temple, St. Anthony’s Church, and the Red Mosque. Observe the constant activity as trucks load and unload goods destined for different provinces of the country.
Then, continue to the Cultural Triangle.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN SIGIRIYA
Charming Hotel

Day 3: Discover Dambulla and Safari at Minneriya National Park
Explore the ancient monastery of Ritigala, hidden in the jungle and founded in the 3rd century BC by hermit monks. Walk through the jungle to reach the remnants of this historical monastery amidst a nature reserve, complete with a meditation path leading to ruins.

Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the 1st century BC. The five sanctuary caves are adorned with Buddhist murals. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours (entrance fees not included).

Optional: Visit the Dedicated Economic Center, the island’s largest market, bustling with activity as trucks arrive to offload goods for distribution across the island.

In the afternoon, embark on a 4×4 safari in Minneriya National Park (or Kaudulla/Hurulu Eco Park, depending on elephant movements). The safari starts at 2:30 PM and lasts about 3 hours.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN SIGIRIYA
Charming Hotel

Day 4: Climb Sigiriya Rock and Explore the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa (56 km – 1 hour 30 minutes)
Polonnaruwa – Mahiyanganaya (94 km – 2 hours 30 minutes)
Early morning (6:30 AM), ascend the Lion’s Rock at Sigiriya, an ancient royal fortress and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the iconic frescoes and enjoy stunning jungle views from the top. Afterward, visit the museum, which features a 3D model of the rock during its heyday.

Head to Polonnaruwa for a Farmer’s Lunch, enjoying a variety of traditional rice and curry dishes with views of the paddy fields.

Tour the Polonnaruwa Archaeological Site, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore remnants of the kingdom, including the statue of King Parakramabahu, the Royal Palace, the Audience Hall, the Royal Bath, and the Shiva temple.

Travel onward to Mahiyanganaya.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN MAHIYANGANAYA
Comfort Hotel

Day 5: Canoeing on Mapakada Lake and Exploring Rathna Ella Falls
Start early with a peaceful canoeing excursion on Mapakada Lake, where local fishermen gather in the morning. Enjoy an outdoor breakfast on a rock with a stunning lake view. Relax at your hotel with lake and pool views.

In the afternoon, visit Maduru Oya National Park, a hidden gem with abundant wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and more. Maduru Oya National Park, located in the Eastern Province of Sri Lanka, is a hidden gem known for its rich biodiversity and tranquil landscapes. The park spans over 58,000 hectares, offering a sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and numerous bird species. Its diverse ecosystems, ranging from forests to grasslands, provide perfect habitats for both flora and fauna. Visitors can explore the park’s scenic beauty, enjoy safaris, and witness the majestic wildlife in their natural environment. Maduru Oya is a must-visit for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN MAHIYANGANAYA
Comfort Hotel

Day 6: Scenic Drive to Kandy
Mahiyanganaya – Kandy (100 km – 3 hours)

After breakfast at the hotel, it’s time to head back to the adventure! Around 9:30 AM, you’ll travel to the small village of Rathna Ella, where you’ll embark on a 3-4 hour easy-level hike through rural landscapes, rice fields, and jungle, leading to the towering Rathna Ella waterfall (over 100 meters high). Take a refreshing swim upon arrival! Afterward, you’ll return to the starting point for a delicious traditional lunch.

Next, head to Kandy, the most spiritual city in Sri Lanka. Located 500 meters above sea level, Kandy enjoys a cooler climate. It was once the capital of the last Sinhalese kingdom, which eventually fell to the British in 1815 after resisting the Portuguese and Dutch for three centuries.

In the evening, around 6:00 PM, visit the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, a major pilgrimage site where hundreds of devotees arrive daily with lotus and frangipani flowers. You’ll also see the palace of the last King of Ceylon, located next to the temple. The ancient city of Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Our tip: Attend one of the daily ceremonies (puja) at 6:00 AM, 10:00 AM, or 6:30 PM.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN KANDY
Comfort Hotel

Day 7: Journey to the Mountains
Kandy – Nuwara Eliya –

Nuwara Eliya – Haputale (By train)

This morning, depart for Nuwara Eliya. The journey takes you through vast tea plantations, and your driver will suggest a visit to a tea factory to learn about the Ceylon tea production process. Located at an altitude of 1,900 meters, Nuwara Eliya was once a popular retreat for the British colonists. With a more pleasant climate averaging 15°C, it earned the nickname “Little England,” thanks to its English-style houses and buildings, including the post office.

After lunch, transfer to the train station for a scenic train ride to Haputale. Enjoy breathtaking views during the journey. Upon arrival at Haputale station, your driver will be waiting for you.

Departure – Nanu Oya Station
Arrival – Haputale Station

Note: Ticket sales open 30 days before departure, and as travel agencies do not have priority access, we cannot guarantee seating. In such cases, you may have to travel standing. Your luggage will follow with your driver.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN HAPUTALE
Comfort Hotel

Day 8: Tea Plantation Tuk-Tuk Tour and Free Afternoon in Ella

This morning, embark on an offbeat tuk tuk adventure through the tea plantations! Walk amidst the lush greenery, stop at stunning viewpoints, visit a small, colorful Hindu temple, and pass through a charming village of tea pickers. Along the way, you will learn about the tea culture in Sri Lanka. Reach the summit of Lipton’s Seat for an unforgettable panoramic view. The excursion ends with a picnic surrounded by mountain vistas.

Next, head towards Ella for the afternoon at leisure to explore the area. You can choose from the following options:

Little Adam’s Peak: A 1.5-2 hour hike from Ella, this accessible trek offers breathtaking views of the Ella valley. Some claim that, depending on the season, you might even spot the Indian Ocean in the distance!

Dowa Temple: A small cave temple with an unfinished, 12-meter high Buddha statue carved into granite rock. Legend says that King Walagamba disappeared through an 11-kilometer tunnel here, halting the statue’s completion.

Nine Arch Bridge: A century-old marvel, this bridge between Ella and Demodara features nine towering arches, built without steel or concrete. Its construction was delayed by World War I and completed in 1921 using only stone.

Zip-lining: For thrill-seekers, experience a 550-meter zip line that takes you over the Ella valley, offering 360-degree views at speeds of up to 80 km/h. This activity is family-friendly and costs $20 per person.

DINNER & OVERNIGHT IN HAPUTALE
Comfort Hotel

Day 9: Sunset at Galle Fort
Haputale – Galle (220 km – 4 hours 15 minutes)

After breakfast, depart for Galle. On the way, you’ll stop at the tallest stone statue in the country, the 15.5-meter-high Buddha of Buduruwagala, carved directly into a granite rock.

Buduruwagala: Buduruwagala is an impressive ancient Buddhist site located in the southern part of Sri Lanka. The main highlight is the towering Buddha statue, the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka, standing at 15.5 meters. Carved into a massive granite rock face, this statue dates back to the 10th century and is believed to have been part of a larger complex of carvings. The site also features smaller statues of bodhisattvas and deities, providing insight into the artistic and religious practices of the era. Surrounded by lush greenery, Buduruwagala offers a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere, making it a perfect spot for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Upon arrival in Galle, a coastal city in the southwest of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its rich colonial history and stunning architecture. The city’s most famous landmark is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century. The fort is an exquisite blend of European colonial and South Asian architectural styles, with its cobblestone streets, white-washed buildings, and old churches. Inside the fort, visitors can explore museums, boutiques, art galleries, and cafés, all while enjoying breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean. Galle also offers beautiful beaches and a vibrant local culture, making it an unmissable destination for travelers seeking history, culture, and natural beauty.

OVERNIGHT IN GALLE
Comfort Hotel

Day 10: Departure
Galle – Airport (157 km – 2 hours 30 minutes)
Depending on your flight schedule, your driver will transfer you to the airport. Plan to arrive 3 hours before departure.

Safe travels!

Transfer to the airport according to your flight schedule. Safe travels and farewell to Sri Lanka!

THE PRICE INCLUDES:

• Airport transfers and assistance upon arrival and departure.
• Private tour with half-board, except in Negombo and Galle.
• Transport in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver (Day 1 to Day 10), available for an average of 6 to 10 hours per day, until dusk. Departure times are set the day before with your guide.
• Fuel, road taxes, parking, and insurance.
• Driver’s salary, accommodation, and meals.
• Included activities: Mapakada Lake excursion with breakfast, Rathna Ella hike with traditional lunch.
• Tuk tuk ride in Colombo (2 hours).
• Tuk tuk safari at Lipton Seat.
• Local train ride (3rd class) between Nanu Oya and Haputale (seats not guaranteed).
• Jeep safari with entry ticket to Minneriya National Park (3 hours).
• Jeep safari with entry ticket to Maduru Oya National Park (3 hours).
• Local taxes.

THE PRICE DOES NOT INCLUDE:

• International flights.
• Visa.
• Tips*.
• Personal expenses.
• Lunches (approximately 5 to 10 euros per person per meal).
• Drinks during meals.
• Anything not mentioned in the “The Price Includes” section.

Feedbacks

The Sri Lanka tour provided an unforgettable experience, blending rich cultural heritage with stunning natural beauty. Each destination, from the bustling streets of Colombo to the peaceful landscapes of Mahiyanganaya, was carefully selected, offering diverse and unique experiences. The guided tours were informative, especially the visits to UNESCO World Heritage sites like Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, providing insight into Sri Lanka’s fascinating history. The safari at Minneriya National Park was a highlight, with close encounters with elephants in their natural habitat. Accommodations were comfortable, and the itinerary struck a perfect balance between sightseeing and relaxation. Overall, it was a fantastic journey through Sri Lanka’s culture, wildlife, and landscapes.

Travel guide

Start your adventure in Negombo, exploring its coastal charm before heading to Colombo for a tuk-tuk tour of the lively Pettah district. Visit Sigiriya’s ancient rock fortress and the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Experience the thrill of a safari at Minneriya National Park and explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Enjoy serene canoeing at Mapakada Lake and hike to the stunning Rathna Ella Falls. Conclude with a visit to Kandy’s Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and enjoy a scenic journey through the hill country.