21 day Itinerary
DAY 1
COLOMBO
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be welcomed by a representative of Sri Lanka Escapes and welcomed to Sri Lanka.
Historically, Colombo was seen as a simple trading port, while today the city of Colombo is a vibrant, cosmopolitan city that serves as the commercial capital of the island. Transfer to your hotel after your flight.
DAY 2
Colombo City
COLOMBO
After a leisurely breakfast, you will be met by your chauffeur/driver who will be with your the duration of the trip. He is a local with exceptional years of experience and knowledge and is excited to show his beautiful country. Let your adventure and journey begin.
Acclimatise yourself with Sri Lanka with a Colombo city tour, Colombo Museum, with an optional visit to the Lotus Tour.
Includes Breakfast/Dinner
DAY 3
Scenic viewpoints of Belihuloya
COLOMBO – BELIHULOYA
After a leisurely breakfast we drive to Belihuloya and the beauty of Sri Lanka. This is a four and half hour drive and along 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. We reach the hotel in the evening and relax.
Include Breakfast/Dinner
DAY 4
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 5
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. A 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 with time to relax enjoy a drink or you can have the rest of the day to yourself. Includes Breakfast/Dinner
Ravana waterfalls
Haputale Village
Bakers Bend
DAY 6
Nine Arch Bridge
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 7
Famous scenic train to Nuwara Eliya
ELLA – NUWARA ELIYA
After a leisurely breakfast, 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 8
Ramboda Waterfall
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 9
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. Includes Breakfast/Dinner.
Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya
DAY 10
Matale Spice Garden
Cave Temples of Dambulla
Nalanda Gedige
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 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 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.
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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.
Muttuariamman Temple
DAY 11
SIGIRIYA
Adventures begin as we visit a local village and enjoy boat rides via 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 rice and curry, roti and fruits.
After lunch we start our adventurous Wildlife Elephant Safari to see the wild elephants in a 4 x 4 Jeep. 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
Village Tour
Wildlife Safari
DAY 12
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Pidurangala Rock
Cooking with a Local
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.
For those keen on history, 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, it preserves the ruins of an ancient fortified palace. This archaeological site loved by tourists was recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 and is considered by locals as the "eighth wonder of the world". This palace in the sky was envisioned to be a recreation of the mythological city.
Experience the true Cooking Class with Sri Lanka hospitality, learn, experience and enjoy 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 and relax..
Includes Breakfast/Dinner.
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
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
DAY 13
Polonnaruwa Ancient City
DAY 14
Koneswaram Temple
SIGIRIYA - BEACH - TRINCOMALEE
After a leisurely breakfast, we 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 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.
In the afternoon time to relax and enjoy the beach.
Includes Breakfast.
DAY 15
BEACH - TRINCOMALEE
Day of relaxation or take an 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 colourful underwater symphony alive.
Enjoy and experience some snorkelling 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 colourful fishes, etc. There is also a high chance of seeing huge sea turtles and even blacktip sharks. Or a day to relax on the beach. Includes Breakfast.
Trincomalee Beach
DAY 16
BEACH
Day of relaxation, enjoy a day of swimming, reading, walking or optional snorkelling or diving or enjoy a free day.
Includes Breakfast.
Pigeon Island
DAY 17
TRINCOMALEE - JAFFNA
After a leisurely breakfast, we travel North to make our way to Jaffna, a city on the northern tip of Sri Lanka. We will travel through towns and villages with a contrast of amazing, beautiful scenery and landscapes.
On our journey, we will visit the Killinochchi War Memorial Monument. Arrive at your hotel and relax.
Includes Breakfast/Dinner
DAY 18
JAFFNA
This morning, after a leisurely breakfast, we will travel to meet the ferry for a short ferry ride to get to Nainative island. We will visit Nagadeepa ancient Buddhist temple which is an ancient Buddhist temple situated in Nainative island. It is among the country's sixteen holiest Buddhist shrines. According to contemporary history, Gautama Buddha visited the site after five years of attaining enlightenment to settle the dispute between the two reigning Naga Kings, Chulodara and Mahodara. We will also visit Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Hindu temple.
Later in the day, visit Jaffna Fort built by the Portuguese in 1618 and captured by the Dutch in 1658, and expanded the structure In 1795, it was taken over by the British, and remained under the control of a British garrison until 1948. We return to your hotel late afternoon and relax. Includes Breakfast/Dinner
Buddhist Temple
Jaffna Fort
DAY 19
Nallur Kandaswamy Temple
JAFFNA
After a leisurely breakfast, visit Nallur Kandaswamy Devasthanam. The original Kandaswamy Temple was founded in 948 CE. According to the Yalpana Vaipava Malai, the temple was developed at the site 13th century by Puvenaya Vaku, a Minister to the Jaffna King Kalinga Magha. Nallur served as the capital of the Jaffna kings. The present temple was constructed in 1734 CE during Dutch colonial era.
In the afternoon, visit Kīrimalai Sacred Water Springs. Kírimalai Sacred Water Springs is known for it’s spiritual significance and stunning natural beauty. This sacred location, primarily recognized as a Hindu temple, attracts thousands of devotees and tourists alike who seek solace in its healing waters. The springs are believed to possess therapeutic properties, drawing visitors looking to benefit from their reputed curative abilities. Optional visit to Casuarina Beach if you like to end the day with a relaxing swim.
Includes Breakfast/Dinner
Public LIbrary
DAY 20
JAFFNA – ANURADHAPURA
After a leisurely breakfast, we start our journey, travel through the local villages and viewpoints. 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 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 in the Ramayana.
Includes Breakfast/Dinner.
Negombo Fishing Village
DAY 21
ANURADHAPHURA - NEGOMBO – AIRPORT
We continue our travel to 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 we will reach our destination of Negombo and authentic the Fishing Village also known as little Rome.
Arrive at your complimentary transit hotel and dinner, relax before transferring to the airport for your flight homeward bound.
Includes Breakfast/Dinner.
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