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21 Day Classic Sri Lanka

Travel April – October

 AUD    A$4999

Day 1

21 day itinerary 

DAY 1

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Colombo Harbour at Night

COLOMBO

Arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport where you will be welcomed by a representative of Sri Lanka Escapes.

You will be welcomed by your experienced Chauffeur who will be with you for the duration of the trip.  He is a local with exceptional years of experience and knowledge and is very excited to show his beautiful country.   Let your adventure and journey begin. 

Acclimatise yourself with Sri Lanka as we drive to the coastal town of Negombo a unique picturesque fishing village and transfer to your hotel to relax.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner

Day 2

DAY 2

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COLOMBO – BELIHULOYA

Enjoy a short tour of Colombo city and continue the drive and viewpoints to Belihuloya.  This is a four and half hour drive and on the way, we stop on the way to see beautiful temples and spectacular viewpoints on the way.

Belihuloya is a village in the Ratnapura District, of Sri Lanka south-east of Colombo. This hillside location is a climatically transitional area, linking both the dry and wet zones and the hill and low country. 

Reach your hotel in the evening and relax.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner

Scenic viewpoints of Belihuloya 

Day 3
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DAY 3

Bambarakanda Waterfall

BELIHULOYA

Belihuloya is one of Sri Lanka’s hidden gems and is adorned with several unique and unforgettable nearby attractions, making it a hotspot for those who take a keen interest in nature and adventure.

 

One of the primary nearby attractions when visiting this charming little town is the Bambarakanda Waterfall, the tallest one in Sri Lanka with a height of 263m. Your visit to Belihuloya gives you plenty of options in terms of attractions. For the adventurer, nature lover, or curious tourist in you, Belihuloya has something for everyone.

We start early in the morning and visit a scenic waterfall and then proceed to see village life around Belihuloya. Walk through rice fields and beautiful nature and meet the locals. End the day with a nice swim in a natural pool.

Includes Breakfast/Dinner

Day 4

DAY 4

Bakers Bend

BELIHULOYA – ELLA 

This morning we will visit Bakers Bend making a few stops on the way and including the beautiful waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints.​   Baker’s Bend is situated in upper side of the Non Pareil Estate bordering famous wildlife reserve Horton plains. Wonderful view of low lands towards Indian Ocean , including the Samanala Wewa Reservoir is possible on a clear day from this view point, which is more than 1700m( 5000 feet) above sea level. This picturesque bend is surrounded by some beautiful mountains of the World's End Mountain Range.

We will visit Haputale, a small town on the southern edge of the Sri Lankan hill country. On a clear day you can see the coastline from the mountain ridge, but on other days thick mist clings onto the deep green mountains, tea fields, we stop at local traditional Markets and feel the real life of Sri Lankan going about their day giving you a surreal experience of being surrounded by clouds. Explore the stunning surroundings of Haputale during your travels

We continue to Ella and arrive at your hotel late afternoon and relax Time to relax enjoy a drink or you can have the rest of the day to yourself. Includes Breakfast/Dinner

Ravana waterfalls

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Haputale Village 

Bakers Bend

Day 5

DAY 5

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Nine Arch Bridge

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ELLA

We walk through a beautiful path to see the Nine Arch Bridge, a connection of two mountains and also known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky’.  This bridge is 300 feet in length, 25 feet in width and 80-100 feet in height.  It is an amazing example of colonial era railway in Sri Lanka and this is located in Demodara and happens to be one of the best places to visit in Ella. 

 

Little Adam's peak is an easy walk to reach the viewpoint. Climbing up the Little Adams Peak in Ella is one of the favourite activities of the tourists on their Sri Lankan holiday with majestic views and photo opportunities – it is only a leisurely 2 hour walk. Enjoy the view over the valley.

The whole journey is very pleasing while passing through the local villages and tea plantations. End the day and back to the hotel via a scenic road.

Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Little Adams Peak

Day 6

DAY 6

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Famous scenic train to Nuwara Eliya

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ELLA – NUWARA ELIYA 

Depart on the famous scenic train to Nuwara Eliya. 

The train ride to Nuwara Eliya powers down through Sri Lanka's southern hill country, crossing the tea plantations before it winds up and disappears into the clouds, weaving in and out of the many mountain tunnels as it finally descends to Nuwara Eliya.  Giving you the opportunity to soak in the mystic vibes and cherish the beauty of slow travel.

 

Arrive at Nuwara Eliya and take a city tour and experience a few viewpoints before we go to the majestic Grand Hotel and enjoy the grand style and class of hotel and visit the Hill Club known as the Gentleman club dating back in time with an optional delicious traditional English high tea followed by an afternoon at leisure and wander through beautiful English gardens

Includes Breakfast/Dinner

High Tea at Majestic Grand Hotel

Day 7

DAY 7

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Ramboda  Waterfall

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NUWARA ELIYA – KANDY

During our adventure today we will visit Ramboda known for its marvellous landscapes, comprising highlands, ridges, plains, streams and hilly mountains and see the scenic Ramboda waterfall.  

Sri Lanka formerly known as Ceylon is famous for its quality tea.  Nuwara Eliya is Sri Lanka’s lush tea growing region, founded by the British explorer Samuel Baker in 1846 continues to give us the experience of the British colonial past with full operational tea plantations; 

En-route we will see local families of generation to generation working in the fields of rolling hills,  picking the tea leaves manually by hand.  We will visit a real time Tea processing factory to see how the tea is produced as there are many still in full operation today giving you an opportunity to taste the delights of fresh tea and buy to take home for family and friends.  Arrive at your hotel and relax. Includes Breakfast/Dinner

Nuwara lush tea growing region

Day 8
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Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya

KANDY
This morning we will visit one of the most stunning gardens, The Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya. In 1821 the park was under British rule and it then became known as the Botanical Garden. Here exotic crops such as nutmeg, tea, rubber, coffee, and cinchona are all unique and important to the country of Sri Lanka. The gardens also includes a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world.

 

Visit the Town of Kandy and walk among the local streets to experience local shopping. Optional visit to the International Buddhist centre or end the day relaxing at your hotel.

Arrive at your hotel and relax – Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

DAY 8

Day 9

DAY 8

KANDY

This morning we will visit one of the most stunning gardens, The Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya. In 1821 the park was under British rule and it then became known as the Botanical Garden. Here exotic crops such as nutmeg, tea, rubber, coffee, and cinchona are all unique and important to the country of Sri Lanka. The gardens also include a beautiful orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from all over the world.

 

Visit the Town of Kandy and walk among the local streets to experience local shopping. Optional visit to the International Buddhist centre or end the day. Arrive at your hotel and relax – Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Day 10

DAY 10

KANDY - SIGIRIYA

As we drive to Sigiriya we will stop at Matale and visit  the unique Spice garden growing a large variety of spices  Enjoy an informative talk about all the spices by a local qualified educational guide who explains all the natural remedies an opportunity to try and take spices and remedies home to enhance your health and wellness regime. 

 

We will Visit Nalanda Gedige is an ancient complete stone temple near Matale and its original site is considered the geographical centre Sri Lanka. The building was constructed between the 8th and 10th centuries. 

 

Optional visit to Muttuariamman Temple in Matale was built in 1874.  This temple is used by both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple was originally a small statue under a tree prayed to by the Hindu people but has been developed by the people in Matale.

Dambulla was named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its Buddhist caves perched at the top of a hill. A bonus is the beautiful panoramic view that you get of the surrounding area. Visit the stunning Cave Temples of Dambulla, built by King Valagamba back in the 1st century BC. Dambulla is named a UNESCO World Heritage site for its Buddhist caves perched at the top of a hill. It is worth the climb to see the 5 caves and stunning temples filled with over 150 colorful religious statues and paintings while experiencing the beautiful panoramic views. The monastic ensemble of Dambulla is an outstanding example of the religious art and expression of Sri Lanka and South and Southeast Asia.

 

Then we can take a stroll through Dambulla Market and discover new fruits and vegetables.  Afternoon arrive at your hotel and time to relax. Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Day 11
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Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

DAY 11

SIGIRIYA

Adventures begin as we visit a local village and enjoy ride through the rice plantation making our way by boat as we enjoy the live lily pads.  We exit the boat and walk a little way to see a local farm and rice fields. Learn the secrets from the locals on how to cook delicious Sri Lankan rice and curry and coconut roti. We also have the opportunity to experience how you can hull the rice as it has been done for generations and enjoy a local traditional lunch of curry, roti and fruits.

 

After lunch, we will join an adventurous Safari to see the Wild elephants. This is one of the most exciting safari experiences in Sri Lanka and an opportunity to take photos up close and personal to send home and share with family and friends. Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Day 12
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Matale Spice Garden

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Cave Temples of Dambulla

DAY 12

SIGIRIYA

This morning is the option to climb Pidurangala Rock, at the top you will enjoy the amazing view of Sigiriya Lion Rock with your group, and at the top, you have candid photo opportunities.

 

Sigiriya is nominated among travel enthusiasts as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an ancient rock fortress with awe-inspiring architecture, with an amazing view of Fortress Sigiriya Lion Rock’ built by King Kayapa in the 5th century for all those who are fit. It is a spectacular 200 meters high natural formation of granite some 750 steps up and at the top, preserves the ruins of an ancient fortified palace.

 

Experience traditional Sri Lanka hospitality experience while enjoying the taste and delights with the secrets of traditional Sri Lanka with a hands-on cooking class in a local Sri Lankan home.  Return to your hotel.     Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Day 13
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Village Tour

DAY 13

SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA

This morning after a leisurely breakfast we drive to Sri Lanka’s second most ancient kingdom, Polonnaruwa, became the capital of Sri Lanka following the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993 AD. Built by King Parakramabahu I, this urban green city has seen numerous civilisations journeying through this kingdom including the Cholas, South Indian Hindu and Buddhist Sinhalese, between the 12th and 13th centuries.  Brimming with archeologically treasures, the city is dotted with temples, shrines, palaces and ruins. Explore the royal palace from the period of King Parakramabahu I (1153 – 1186). 

 

After a great day,  time to relax and enjoy a traditional Ayurvedic massage, commonly known as "Abhyanga", is a full-body massage performed using warm, medicinal oils, aims to harmonize the body, mind, and spirit. The idea is to stimulate specific energy points (marmas) on the body, thereby promoting physical healing, improving circulation, and enhancing mental clarity.  Return to your hotel and relax.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner

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Wildlife Safari 

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Cooking with a Local 

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Polonnaruwa Ancient City

KANDY

This morning we visit the Gem Museum to see how the gems are cultivated from beginning to end. Sri Lanka is known as one of the largest gem producers in the world and wonder the streets of Kandy.

 

Early evening we will attend the Sri Lankan traditional cultural show and watch the beautiful locals dancing in a rainbow of colorful Cultural costumes as they perform their dances in grace and style. 

 

We will then take a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. It was founded back in the 16th century, it housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism – a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. Return to your hotel.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

DAY 9

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Gem Museum

Nalanda Gedige
Hindu Temple

Nalanda Gedige

Muttuariamman Temple

DAY 9

KANDY

This morning we visit the Gem Museum to see how the gems are cultivated from beginning to end. Sri Lanka is known as one of the largest gem producers in the world and wonder the streets of Kandy.

 

Early evening we will attend the Sri Lankan traditional cultural show and watch the beautiful locals dancing in a rainbow of colorful Cultural costumes as they perform their dances in grace and style. 

 

We will then take a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. It was founded back in the 16th century, it housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism – a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. Return to your hotel.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

r.

DAY 9

KANDY

This morning we visit the Gem Museum to see how the gems are cultivated from beginning to end. Sri Lanka is known as one of the largest gem producers in the world and wonder the streets of Kandy.

 

Early evening we will attend the Sri Lankan traditional cultural show and watch the beautiful locals dancing in a rainbow of colorful Cultural costumes as they perform their dances in grace and style. 

 

We will then take a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. It was founded back in the 16th century, it housed one of the most sacred relics of Buddhism – a tooth of Buddha collected from his funeral pyre, which is now protected within the gold-roofed Temple of the Tooth. Return to your hotel.  Includes Breakfast/Dinner.

Polonnaruwa Ancient City

Day 14
Day 15
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Koneswaram Temple

DAY 15

BEACH RESORT

Free time to relax or swim in crystal blue water on the amazing quiet beautiful beaches and relax.  Includes Breakfast 

Day 16
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Trincomalee Beach

SIGIRIYA  -  BEACH RESORT

After a leisurely breakfast, we travel from West to East across the country to make our way to Trincomalee, we will visit the town to see the temples culture and traditions of east Sri Lanka.

 

The art and cultural activities in Trincomalee will give you an insight into the city's history, traditions, and artwork. Visit The Koneswaram Temple - a popular place of worship in Sri Lanka and is one of the Pancha Ishwarams (five abodes) of Lord Shiva. The earliest mention of the temple goes way back to the 6th century BC. Arrive in your hotel and relax by the beach. Includes Breakfast.

DAY 14

DAY 16

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BEACH RESORT

Free day of relaxation.   Optional visit via boat to Pigeon Island. The Pigeon Island National Park comprises two islands. The islands are a breeding and feeding ground for over 300 species of coral reef fish keeping the colorful underwater symphony alive.

 

Enjoy and experience some snorkeling in the morning and afternoon and you can witness a variety of underwater life ranging from Trumper fish, angel fish, parrot fish, eels, coral gardens, and other colorful fishes, etc. There is also a high chance of seeing huge sea turtles and even blacktip sharks..  Includes Breakfast.

Pigeon Island

Day 17
Trincomalee
Day 18

DAY 17

BEACH RESORT

Free day to relax. take a swim in the crystal blue water and the beautiful quiet beaches or time out. Includes Breakfast

DAY 18

BEACH RESORT

Free day to relax. take a swim in the crystal blue water and the beautiful quiet beaches or time out. Includes Breakfast

Day 19
Beaches

DAY 19

BEACH RESORT

Another amazing day relaxing, swimming in the crystal blue water and the beautiful quiet beaches or time out. Optional Diving and Snorkeling.    Includes Breakfast

Crystal blue water

beaches
Day 20

DAY 20

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BEACH RESORT – ANURADHAPURA

This morning after a leisurely breakfast we take an optional visit to Mihintale Ancient Temple. Mihintale is a mountain peak near Anuradhapura in Sri Lanka. It is believed by Sri Lankans to be the site of a meeting between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa which inaugurated the presence of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is now a pilgrimage site, and the site of several religious monuments and abandoned structures.

 

We continue for an optional visit to Velgam Vehera (also known as Vilgam Rajamaha Viharaya) is a historical Buddhist temple situated in KanniyaTrincomalee DistrictSri Lanka. It is also known to Hindus as Natanar Kovil.  Historically Velgam Vehera was one of the important Buddhist temples in the country, worshiped by both Sinhala and Tamil Buddhists. Arrive at your hotel and relax.  Includes Breakfast.

Negombo Fishing Village

Day 21

DAY 21

Anuradhapura 1st Ancient City

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ANURADHAPHURA - NEGOMBO – AIRPORT

This morning after a leisurely breakfast we will visit Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka has earned fame for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Lankan civilization.

 

Founded in the fourth century B.C.E., Anuradhapura served as of the capital of the Anuradhapura Kingdom until the beginning of the eleventh century C.E. During that period, the city enjoyed stability constituting one of the most durable centres of political power and urban life in South Asia. Considered sacred to the Buddhist world, monasteries covering an area of over sixteen square miles (40 km2) surround the ancient city. Anuradhapura has significance in Hindu legend as the fabled capital of the Asura King Ravana in the Ramayana and we will afternoon we will arrive in Negombo.

 

The coastal town of Negombo is set alongside a picturesque lagoon and impressive infrastructure of canals built by the Dutch colonial times. Negombo was an important outpost for the trade of cinnamon in colonial times.

 

Arrive at your transit hotel, relax & dinner before transferring to the airport for your flight homeward bound.   Includes Breakfast/Dinner

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Anuradhapura 1st Ancient City

Bon Voyage...

Fortress Sigiriya 'Lion Rock'

DAY 14

SIGIRIYA – BEACH RESORT

Visit Trincomalee town to see the temples, culture and traditions of east    Sri Lanka. The art and cultural activities in Trincomalee will give you an insight into the city's history, traditions, and artwork. Visit The Koneswaram Temple - a popular place of worship in

 

Sri Lanka is one of the Pancha Ishwarams (five abodes) of Lord Shiva. The earliest mention of the temple goes way back to the 6th century BC. In the afternoon time to relax at the pool in your resort or the beach. Arrive at your hotel and relax by the beach. Includes Breakfast

 

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