Discover Sri Lanka

This morning, you’ll start early with a 7:00 AM departure towards the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage (approx. 2 hours drive). Established in 1975, this orphanage is home to orphaned and injured elephants. Here, you’ll witness the heartwarming sight of baby elephants being bottle-fed and bathed by their human caretakers. You’ll also observe the elephants wandering around their enclosure and interacting with visitors. Don’t miss the bath time at the Ma Oya river, which occurs at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. After the visit, you’ll head towards Dambulla for lunch on the way.

In the afternoon, visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple (approx. 2 hours travel time). This is the best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka, dating back to the 1st century BC. It houses over 150 images of Buddha, and its five caves are filled with ancient paintings and statues of the Buddha, offering insight into Sri Lanka’s rich Buddhist heritage.

Following your visit to Dambulla, you’ll travel to Habarana (approx. 30 minutes drive), where you will check-in to your hotel for the evening.

Overnight in Habarana

After breakfast, you will head out at around 8:00 AM for a visit to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa (approx. 1-hour drive). Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka, is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its impressive ruins, including the Royal Palace, the Audience Hall, and the Vatadage (a circular relic house). The complex also includes the famous Gal Viharaya, where you’ll find four statues of the Buddha carved from rock. The city’s advanced irrigation systems and massive tanks, such as the Parakrama Samudraya, are evidence of the engineering marvels of this period.

After exploring Polonnaruwa, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, where you’ll experience the flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, featuring a variety of curries served with steamed rice.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to Minneriya National Park (approx. 45 minutes drive) for a thrilling 4WD jeep safari. This park is home to the famous “Elephant Gathering” during the dry season (June to September). You’ll have the chance to observe large herds of elephants as they graze and bathe near the Minneriya Tank, a man-made water reservoir built by King Mahasena in the 3rd century AD. The park is also home to other wildlife, including wild boar, buffalo, and various bird species.
After your safari, return to Habarana for the night.

Overnight in Habarana

In the morning, you will head out to experience rural Sri Lanka at a traditional village (approx. 30 minutes drive). The village visit begins with a bullock cart ride through rural pathways to a picturesque lake. From there, you’ll enjoy a serene canoe ride to an island in the lake where you’ll observe traditional farming practices, including chena (slash-and-burn) cultivation.

You’ll then be welcomed into a wattle-and-daub cabana where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional Sri Lankan dishes, including grinding flour, squeezing coconut milk, and pounding rice. You’ll also observe how locals weave coconut branches to create thatched roofs. Finally, enjoy a delicious traditional rice and curry meal served on a lotus leaf.

In the afternoon, return to your hotel for some relaxation.

Overnight in Habarana

Depart for Sigiriya (approx. 1-hour drive), home to one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site dates back to 477 AD and was once the royal palace of King Kashyapa. Explore the ancient water gardens, frescoes, and impressive rock structures as you climb to the summit for breathtaking views.

After visiting Sigiriya, you’ll travel to Kandy (approx. 2.5-hour drive), the last capital of the Sinhalese kings. Once in Kandy, you’ll have the option to visit a local herbal spice garden before heading to a cultural performance featuring traditional Sri Lankan music and dance.

End your evening with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, home to the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha.

Overnight in Kandy

In the morning, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens (approx. 30 minutes drive), located just outside the city. Covering 147 acres, the gardens are home to over 500 species of plants, including rare and endemic species. Don’t miss the Orchid House, a popular attraction.

Afterward, return to Kandy for lunch and enjoy some sightseeing and shopping at the local market. Here, you can find an array of fresh produce, spices, and local crafts. A leisurely walk around Kandy Lake offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills.

Overnight in Kandy

After breakfast, depart for Nuwara Eliya (approx. 2.5-3 hours’ drive). Alternatively, you can enjoy one of the world’s most scenic train rides through lush tea plantations and misty mountains. Once in Nuwara Eliya, check-in to your hotel and take a leisurely stroll around the town, which is known for its colonial-era architecture. Visit Victoria Park or enjoy the peaceful surroundings of Lake Gregory.

Set off early for Horton Plains National Park (approx. 1.5-hour drive), known for its unique ecosystem and stunning views of World’s End, a dramatic cliff offering panoramic views. Arrive early (around 7:30 AM) to avoid mist, which often covers the area later in the day. The trek through the park will also lead you to Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall that is perfect for photography.

Return to Nuwara Eliya in the afternoon and relax after your trek.

Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

This morning, visit a nearby tea factory (approx. 1-hour drive) to see the tea-making process firsthand. Afterward, travel to Ella (approx. 3 hours drive), a small town surrounded by mountains and tea plantations.

Overnight in Ella

Today, explore the beauty of Ella. Hike to Little Adam’s Peak for stunning views of the Ella Gap. For a bit of adventure, try the Ravana zip line, which offers thrilling views of the surrounding landscapes.

Later, take a tuk-tuk ride to the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive railway structure built in the 1920s. The bridge is a marvel of engineering, made entirely of brick and mortar.

In the afternoon, visit Ravan Falls, or for a more adventurous experience, hike to Ella Rock, a challenging trek that rewards you with panoramic views of the area.

Overnight in Ella

Leave Ella for Tissamaharama (approx. 3-hour drive), with a stop at the Buduruwagala Temple (approx. 1-hour detour). This 10th-century temple features impressive rock-carved statues, including a large Buddha statue.

After visiting the temple, proceed to Tissamaharama, where you’ll relax for the evening.

Overnight in Tissamaharama

Set off early (around 6:00 AM) for a safari in Yala National Park (approx. 30 minutes drive). Yala is home to leopards, elephants, and many other wildlife species. The best time to see leopards is early in the morning when they are most active.

After your safari, return to Tissamaharama and take a brief tour of Kataragama (approx. 20-minute drive), a sacred town with significant Buddhist and Hindu sites.

Overnight in Tissamaharama

Drive to Galle (approx. 3-hour drive), where you will explore the historic Dutch Fort. The fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, was originally built by the Portuguese in 1619 and expanded by the Dutch and British. Take a walking tour around the ramparts, enjoying the panoramic views of the Indian Ocean and the city of Galle. After lunch, head to Hikkaduwa for a relaxing beach holiday.

Overnight in Hikkaduwa

Enjoy three full days of relaxation in Hikkaduwa, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and surfing opportunities. You can snorkel, surf, or simply unwind by the beach.

Overnight in Hikkaduwa

Before heading to Colombo (approx. 2.5-hour drive), take a boat safari on the Madu River, exploring mangrove forests and visiting a cinnamon plantation. Afterward, visit a turtle hatchery to learn about conservation efforts for sea turtles.

Arrive in Colombo in the afternoon for a city tour, visiting landmarks like the Colombo Museum, Independence Hall, and the Old Parliament. Enjoy shopping in luxury malls and tourist shops.

Overnight in Colombo