In this incredible adventure on the island paradise of Sri Lanka there is lots in store that amazes and fascinates. Set adrift in the middle of the Indian Ocean, this tropical land offers fascinating ancient history in incredible natural settings, making its sites ideal for inquiring minds to explore. From the bustle of Colombo, through the culture circuit of Dambulla, Kandy, and Sigiriya, the tea gardens and hills of Nuwara Eliya, wildlife spotting at Horton plains to whale watching and exploring the pristine beaches of Trincomalle its a journey of many experiences.
Enchanting Sri Lanka – 9 Days
Colombo, Kitugala, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Horton Plains, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Trincomalle & Negombo (8n / 9d)
Itinerary
Day 1 – Colombo : Arrive at Negombo airport and drive to Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. Check in at the hotel and relax. Evening take in the sights and sounds of the capital city from the busy commercial hub to the tree-lined suburbs. Here, colonial architecture mingle with glass skyscrapers and the past comes alive in buildings that have withstood great winds of change. There are bargains to find, history to discover and much to explore. Overnight at Colombo.
Day 2 – Colombo to Nuwara Eliya : After Breakfast head ‘up country’ to the city of Nuwara Eliya via Kithulgala. If you are feeling adventurous, an incredible White Water Rafting expereince awaits you at Kitulgala. The 5km on the picturesque Kelani River run covers 5 major rapids and 4 minor ones. Later reach the old colonial outpost still referred to as ‘Little England’ Nuwara Eliya certainly lives up to its name. Perched 6200 feet above sea level, the climate too, adds to the illusion of one stepping into an old English town, where neat hedges, quaint cottages and beautiful old buildings stand as serene as they did well over a century ago. Overnight at Nuwara Eliya.
Day 3 – Nuwara Eliya ( Horton Plains ) : Leave early for an excursion to Horton Plains National Park. At a level of over 7000 ft above sea level, Horton Plains is the highest plateau in the country and its unique landscape and wilderness draws visitors from near and far. The vast Patna rises from the marshland on the lower slopes and spreads up to the tree line – trees which are stunted by the winds, covered in ‘Spagnum moss ‘ or old man’s beard. The swirling mist envelops it all. In the lush jungle rare and endemic trees and plants flourish – the ‘Niloo’ flowers bloom once in 12 years. Sambur, leopard and other mammals as well as many species of birds and butterflies are also found here. Evening back to Nuwara Eliya and explore the town. Overnight at Nuwara Eliya.
Day 4 – Nuwara Eliya to Kandy : After Breakfast proceed to the hill capital of Kandy visiting the Ramboda waterfalls and a tea factory along the way.Afternoon enjoy a city tour of Kandy – the last kingdom of the Sinhalese, taking in the sights of Upper Lake Drive and the Market Square on the way to pay homage to one of the most sacred religious sites in Sri Lanka. The Temple of the Tooth or Dalada Maligawa is believed to house the ‘tooth relic’ of the Lord Buddha. Later a walk around the town will let you indulge in some souvenir hunting with intricate treasures in wood, copper, silver, brass, ebony, bronze, ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewelry and reed-ware to choose from. Round off your day with a cultural show, where the vibrant costumes and pulsating rhythms of traditional dance forms from centuries old rituals will enthrall you. Overnight at Kandy.
Day 5 – Kandy to Dambulla and Sigiriya : After breakfast leave for Dambulla and visit the UNESCO heritage site of Dambulla Cave temple. Afternoon set off to discover the 8th wonder of the world – the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Dating back to the 5th Century A.D, this astounding ‘city’ on the summit of a high outcrop was the royal citadel of King Kassapa for over 18 years. A miraculous feat of artistry and engineering, its unique features and exquisite frescoes continue to amaze all who visit it, even today. Overnight at Dambulla.
Day 6 – Dambulla to Trincomalle : Morning after breakfast proceed to Trincomalle to enjoy the beaches of the north east coast. On the way visit the historic Dambulla Cave Temple en route. Famed for their exquisite painted ceilings and statues – over 130 of them, the temple complex comprises five caves, some dating back to the 1st century B.C. Overnight at Trincomalee.
Day 7 : Trincomalee : Spend the day at leisure on the beautiful beach or go on a whale watching excursion off the coast of Trincomalee, where the giants of the ocean are seen in abundance with large pods of dolphins and, in the migration season, blue whales are found just a few miles offshore. Another option is going Pigeon Island boat ride which is one of the two marine national parks of Sri Lanka. Overnighta at Trincomalee.
Day 8 : Trincomalee to Negombo : After breakfast leave for the beach town of Negombo. Enjoy the beaches and relax. Overnight at Negombo.
Day 9 : Departure : After breakfast transfer to airport. End of tour.
THEMES – Culture, Nature, Leisure, Wildlife
DESTINATIONS – Colombo, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy , Horton Plains, Dambulla, Sigiriya, Trincomalle, Negombo
HIGHLIGHTS
– Explore the ancient sites of Sigiriya & Dambulla
– Hit the beautiful Nilaveli beach and go whale and dolphin watching of the coast of Trincomalee
– Watch a Kandyan dance and visit the tooth relic temple in Kandy
– Enjoy the beautiful drives through the hills of Nuwara Eliya
– Savor some of Sri Lanka’s deliciously fiery cuisine
– Experience cosmopolitan and vibrant Colombo
– Get up close but not personal with elephants and leopards in Horton Plains Nataional Park
COST – Depending on group size
INCLUSIONS : 8 Nights stay at home stay / hotel with breakfast, All transfers and excursions in private vehicle including all vehicle charges – driver cost, toll, parking etc. , service charges and taxes.
EXCLUSIONS : Other than mentioned, Lunch & Dinner, Entry tickets and camera charges at sightseeing places ( if applicable )
NOTE : This is a customized trip. The cost might vary depending on your group size and type of accommodation required. Please contact us for detail