Discovering Sri Lanka’s Wonders

NEGOMBO

Negombo is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular beach resorts, located just 10 km from Bandaranaike International Airport.

This modest coastal town offers visitors a lively glimpse of Sri Lankan seaside life, with its bustling fish market, colourful wooden fishing boats, and touches of old-world colonial charm.

Negombo is also known for its strong Catholic heritage, a legacy of Portuguese influence. Across the city, you’ll find beautiful churches, roadside crosses, and statues of Jesus that reflect the community’s deep faith.

LOCAL FISH MARKET

This busy spot is a picture of organised chaos, with vendors proudly displaying seafood treasures like crabs, lobsters, shark, squid, and barracuda. You’ll also see fishermen using the ancient tradition of open-air drying, where freshly caught fish are laid out on large sheets to dry under the sun.

As you walk through, you can weave between stalls piled high with the day’s catch, take in the salty sea air, and watch the lively bargaining between buyers and sellers. It’s a perfect place to capture memorable photographs before continuing your journey of discovery in Negombo.

PINNAWALA ELEPHANT ORPHANAGE

After an approximately 2½-hour drive through the lush green countryside, we stop at the inspiring Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Established in 1975 with just five calves, the orphanage now spans a 25-acre property. Don’t be surprised to see baby elephants being bottle-fed or moving freely around the grounds they are gentle and pose no harm.

Watch these majestic creatures during their feeding time and enjoy the unique sight of them bathing and frolicking in the River Maha Oya an experience unlike any other in the world. For those who wish, lunch can be arranged at a nearby riverside restaurant.

DAMBULLA CAVE TEMPLE  

Explore the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most breathtaking attractions. Dating back to the 1st century BC, this sacred site is made up of five impressive caves decorated with over 2,000 square meters of colourful murals from the 18th century and 158 Buddha statues in different poses. The vibrant paintings and detailed carvings offer a fascinating window into Sri Lanka’s deep spiritual traditions and rich artistic heritage.

POLONNARUWA

After breakfast, we take a short drive to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital dating back to the 10th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site flourished in the 12th century and is filled with remarkable ruins from its golden age.

We’ll hop on bicycles and ride along flat, scenic roads to explore ancient statues, stairways, and columns. Along the way, discover temples, tombs, and stupas, and visit the spectacular Quadrangle — home to some of the finest Buddhist relics and ruins from a thousand years ago, when Sinhalese culture reached its peak.

VILLAGE TOUR

Village Tour Sri Lanka gives you a chance to experience traditional Sri Lanka with all its authenticity. You will then move back to the village amazing traditional bullock cart ride or Tuktuk ride, traditional catamaran ride and be introduced to a local, traditional mud house Refresh your self who will give you a half hour cooking demonstration on traditional Sri Lankan cooking & and enjoy your lunch.

MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK

In the afternoon, you can choose to take an optional game drive in Minneriya, Kaudulla National Park, or the Hurulu Eco Park to see wild elephants in their natural habitat. Those who prefer not to join the safari can simply relax and enjoy the hotel’s comforts.

These expansive parks serve as vital feeding grounds for elephants from the surrounding forests. With the guidance of an experienced park ranger, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to spot and photograph these gentle giants as they gather in the cool evening light.

The parks are also home to playful monkey species, sambar deer, and impressive water birds like storks and pelicans. Your safari will take you through the lush Habarana jungle — the very location where Disney Nature’s Monkey Kingdom was filmed.

HOT AIR BALLOON  (FREE TIME ADD-ONS)

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Dambulla from the sky! Drift peacefully over lush landscapes, ancient temples, and the iconic Sigiriya Rock as the sun rises, casting golden light over Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland. This unforgettable hot air balloon ride offers a unique, bird’s-eye view of Dambulla’s timeless charm and natural splendor perfect for adventurers and romantics alike!

SIGIRIYA ROCK

After breakfast, we head to Sigiriya to climb the iconic Lion Rock Fortress. A series of steps and walkways zigzag up the rock face, leading to the summit. According to ancient Sri Lankan chronicles, King Kasyapa built his royal palace here in the 5th century, with a grand entrance shaped like a lion.

From the top, the palace once looked out over the capital city spread below. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site invites you to explore its fascinating ruins from the surrounding moat and elegant water gardens to the terraced pathways. Along the way, pause to admire the 5th-century frescoes that have captivated visitors for centuries.

SPICE GARDEN

On our 1½-hour drive to Kandy, we’ll stop at the Matale Spice Garden, where you can learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices highly prized during the historic Spice Trade.

A knowledgeable guide will introduce you to the garden, explaining the medicinal and culinary uses of various plants.

You’ll have the chance to touch and smell cardamom, clove, cinnamon, and even taste raw chocolate and vanilla. The visit also includes a free cooking demonstration and a 20-minute complimentary oil massage. There is an opportunity to purchase massage oils, spices, and Ayurvedic products as souvenirs.

After exploring the spice garden, enjoy lunch at the Spice Garden Restaurant before continuing your journey to Kandy.

AYURWEDA SPA THERAPY (FREE TIME ADD-ONS) 

Sharing the Traditional Wonders of Our Ancient Healing Science

We offer holistic treatments that nurture the mind, body, and soul. Step into our spa and leave feeling completely refreshed and relaxed. Take home a selection of our Ayurveda products so you can relive the spa experience in the comfort of your own home.

Our Ayurveda experiences are thoughtfully designed to meet each individual’s desire to heal, cleanse, relax, and revitalize—the perfect balance of tradition and wellness.

TEMPLE OF THE SACRED TOOTH RELIC

Kandy is a picturesque hill town set beside a serene lake and is home to the Temple of the Tooth, Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist relic. We begin with a visit to the temple during the daily ceremony.

The Tooth of Buddha was removed from his funeral pyre in 543 BC and eventually brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD. The temple attracts hundreds of worshippers every day and is open to the public, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich spiritual heritage.

GEM MUSEUM

You will also visit the Gem Museum and Lapidary, where you can learn about the history of gem mining in Sri Lanka. The Kandy Gem Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the mining processes, craftsmanship, and heritage behind these treasures. This tour provides not only an educational experience but also the opportunity to purchase certified gemstones directly from the source, making it a perfect stop for collectors and jewelry enthusiasts.

ROYAL BOTANICAL GARDENS

As Sri Lanka’s largest garden, the elegant and spacious Peradeniya Gardens covers 147 acres (60 hectares), so plenty of time is needed to stroll through its imposing Avenue of Royal Palms.

The gardens are home to around 4,000 different species of plants and about 10,000 trees. Many of these are towering, mature tropical timber trees that create a majestic landscape. Highlights include the Giant Bamboo of Burma, which can grow up to 40 meters (130 feet) high with stems as thick as 25 centimetres (10 inches). Remarkably, it can grow as much as 30 centimetres (12 inches) in a single day.

CULTURAL DANCE SHOW 

Experience the vibrant Cultural Dance Show, a captivating celebration of Sri Lanka’s rich heritage through traditional music, dance, and colorful costumes. The performance features a variety of regional dances from the elegant Kandyan dance to the lively drumming of the low country.

SHOPPING EXPERIENCE IN KANDY

Indulge in an exciting shopping experience in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, where tradition meets modernity. Explore vibrant markets, bustling streets, and local boutiques that offer a wide variety of authentic Sri Lankan handicrafts, souvenirs, and unique treasures.

TEA FACTORY

After the tea plucking experience, enjoy a short hike through the plantation to a viewpoint overlooking the surrounding villages. Then, visit a Tea Factory and plantation to see how the world-famous Ceylon Tea is carefully grown, harvested, and processed.

NUWARA ELIYA

Once a favorite hill station during the British era, Nuwara Eliya sits at 1,890 meters in the cool highlands and retains a charming British feel. Locally known as “Little England,” the town is dotted with colonial-style houses, hotels, and even a racecourse. The area is famous for its high-quality tea, and later in the day, we will visit a working tea plantation to see how this world-renowned tea is produced.

CITY TOUR

You can choose to take an optional walk into the hills surrounding the town or spend some time exploring the local bazaar. The rest of the day is free for leisure activities. You might also enjoy a relaxing stroll through Victoria Park, where a mix of wild and sculpted plant life creates a peaceful retreat.

HIGH TEA EXPERIENCE AT NUWARA ELIYA HOTEL

Step back in time and indulge in an elegant high tea at the historic Nuwara Eliya Hotel, set in Sri Lanka’s lush highlands. Savor freshly baked scones, delicate pastries, and premium Ceylon teas in a charming colonial setting with sweeping views of misty mountains and rolling tea plantations.

TRAIN JOURNEY 

One of the world’s greatest railway journeys, this iconic train line was first built in the mid-1800s during British colonial rule.

Travel by train from Nanu Oya to Ella, considered the most scenic stretch of the upcountry route. Between Ohiya and Idalgashinna, over just 8.5 km, the track passes through 14 tunnels (Nos. 22–35), the longest measuring 181 meters.

NINE ARCH BRIDGE

Our journey continues with a stop at the famous Nine Arch Bridge. Inspired by the Demodara loop, this spectacular feat of engineering spans 91 meters. Its nine beautiful arches make it a highly picturesque spot, especially as it sits amidst dense jungle and lush agricultural surroundings. We will take a 20-minute walk off the beaten track, exploring the area around the bridge and enjoying numerous scenic viewpoints and photo opportunities along the way

LITTLE ADAM’S PEAK

Little Adam’s Peak is located just outside Ella town. It’s a relatively easy and pleasant 45-minute hike to the summit, and the stunning views are well worth it. From the top, you’ll see endless valleys of tea plantations and cascading waterfalls.

RAVANA WATERFALL

Experience the breathtaking beauty of Ella’s Ravana Waterfall, a hidden gem in the heart of Sri Lanka’s lush greenery. Feel the mist from the roaring 82-foot cascade as it plunges into a crystal-clear pool below, all set against the mystical backdrop of ancient legend.

BUDURANGALA TEMPLE

Buduruwagala, an ancient rock temple near Wellawaya, is an ideal stop when traveling from Ella to Sri Lanka’s southern region. Dating back to the 10th century, the site features seven impressive rock-cut statues, including the towering 51-foot figure of the Buddha, believed to represent Deepankara Buddha. Faint traces of vibrant colors still visible on the statues hint at their former brilliance, offering visitors a glimpse into the temple’s historical grandeur. This visit is perfect for anyone interested in Sri Lanka’s rich history and spiritual heritage.

UDAWALAWA ELEPHANT TRANSIT HOME VISIT |

Arrive at the Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home to witness the 2:30 PM milk feeding session, where orphaned elephant calves are cared for before being released into the wild. Observe these gentle giants up close as they eagerly gather for their feeding, a heartwarming experience showcasing conservation efforts. After the session, explore the surrounding area and learn about elephant rehabilitation before continuing your journey.

KALAMETIYA BOAT SAFARI 

Upon arrival, embark on a scenic boat safari through the serene lagoon, where you can spot a variety of bird species, including herons, egrets, and kingfishers, along with occasional sightings of crocodiles and monkeys. Enjoy the peaceful surroundings as your guide shares insights about the rich biodiversity of this coastal wetland. After an unforgettable encounter with nature, return to the shore and travel back to your hotel, concluding your morning adventure.

EXPERIENCE THE ICONIC STILT FISHERMEN

Along the picturesque coast from Mirissa to Galle, witness the timeless tradition of Sri Lanka’s stilt fishermen, balancing gracefully on slender wooden poles above the waves. This unique form of fishing, passed down through generations, offers a fascinating glimpse into local coastal life. Set against the backdrop of serene blue waters, these fishermen create an unforgettable image of patience and skill. Be sure to observe or photograph this iconic practice during your journey along the scenic southern shores.

TURTLE HATCHERY

On the way, we will stop at a Turtle Hatchery. Local volunteers and visitors are welcome to learn about the dangers facing turtles both in the oceans and on land. Here, you’ll get an up-close look at numerous baby turtles.

The hatchery collects eggs from vulnerable beaches, protects them from predators and poachers, and cares for the hatchlings until they are ready to be released a few days after hatching a truly memorable experience.

SOORIYA WEAVING MILLS

Discover the rich heritage of Sri Lankan textiles at Sooriya Weaving Mills in Galle, where tradition and craftsmanship come alive. This historic mill showcases the art of handloom weaving, producing vibrant fabrics and intricate designs passed down through generations.

Immerse yourself in the weaving process as skilled artisans create beautiful handloom textiles, from colourful saris to exquisite home decor. A visit to Sooriya Weaving Mills offers not only a chance to witness traditional artistry but also an opportunity to shop for authentic, locally made fabrics that tell the story of Sri Lanka’s textile heritage.

GALLE FORT

Enjoy a guided walk through this historic town, soaking in its rich heritage and vibrant atmosphere.

LEISURE DAY – HIKKADUWA BEACH

Hikkaduwa is one of Sri Lanka’s top surfing destinations, offering warm, clear waters and waves ranging from 4 to 11 feet. The area is best known for surfing during the dry season, from November to March, and features four popular surf hotspots.

Beyond surfing, Hikkaduwa is also a haven for scuba diving and snorkelling. The coral sanctuary along the coast is a shallow reef teeming with multi-coloured corals and countless tropical fish. Nearby, small islets surrounded by vibrant coral formations provide homes for large turtles and a variety of marine life. Diving enthusiasts can also explore more than four shipwrecks, with local shops offering PADI courses and equipment for all skill levels.

MEETIYAGODA MOONSTONE MINE 

Delve into the magical world of gemstones with a visit to the Meetiyagoda Moonstone Mine, the heart of Sri Lanka’s finest moonstone production. Discover the secrets behind this mystical gem as you explore the traditional mining process, where miners extract shimmering blue-hued moonstones from deep within the earth.

Watch skilled craftsmen transform rough stones into radiant jewellery and learn about the fascinating history and folklore surrounding this rare gem. A visit to Meetiyagoda offers a unique blend of culture, craftsmanship, and the allure of one of Sri Lanka’s most enchanting treasures.

MADU RIVER SAFARI

The estuary of the Madu Ganga River is a unique coastal ecosystem of mangroves and islands and may be one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in Sri Lanka. A boat trip through this area offers a wonderful opportunity to observe hundreds of species of plants and animals monkeys nibble on fruit in the trees, a water monitor glides slowly through the water, and cormorants, egrets, and kingfishers patiently wait along the banks for prey.

The river and lagoon are dotted with around 64 islands, ranging from tiny specks with deserted shrines to larger islands home to 250 families, some connected to the mainland by very long footbridges.

COLOMBO CITY TOUR

Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital and a historic port city on the western coast, is a vibrant mix of races, religions, and cultures. The city reflects both the best and the challenges of Sri Lanka, with grand mansions, lush gardens, fine dining, and shopping malls side by side with bustling street markets and congested roads.

Embark on a sightseeing tour of Colombo, taking in key highlights such as the Galle Face Green promenade, Dutch Hospital precinct, Fort Railway Station, a Hindu Kovil, Beira Lake, and Independence Square, experiencing the city’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.