11 Days / 10 Nights
Colombo – Dambulla – Anuradhapura – Polonnaruwa – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Bentota – Galle
This brief tour combines culture and relaxation, taking in some of Sri Lanka’s (formerly known as Ceylon) finest historical, archaeological, and natural treasures whilst not forgetting the pleasures of a few days by the sea. From ancient cities to the serene country hills of Nuwara Eliya and seaside charms of Bentota and Beruwala, this comprehensive yet laidback tour gives travellers a divine introduction to the exotic island nation.
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Arrive at Colombo International Airport. Travellers are assisted with a transfer to the hotel and check-in, and stay overnight in Negombo.
Day 2: Dambulla Exploration
Breakfast, followed by a trip to Dambulla/Habarana, the hub of the cultural triangle. Afternoon visit to the 2nd century cave temple of Dambulla. Stay for three nights.
Day 3: Anuradhapura and Catamaran Ride
After breakfast, guests head out for an excursion to Anuradhapura – a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the island’s first capital (5th century BC – 9th century AD), and the centre of the island’s Buddhist civilization. After exploring Anuradhapura, travellers continue to what is known as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, Mihintale. Evening ends with a catamaran ride on the Habarana Lake with a local fisherman. Stay overnight in Dambulla.
Day 4: Polonnaruwa and Minneriya Jeep Safari
After breakfast, excursion to the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country. Afternoon jeep safari to witness a herd of wild elephants and various other wildlife species in Minneriya National Park.
Day 5: Kandy and Spice Garden
After breakfast guests travel to Kandy, visiting the impressive 5th century Sigiriya rock fortress enroute. Later, the journey continues towards Kandy, with a stop at a spice garden in Matale. Stay for 2 nights in Kandy.
Day 6: Kandy Historic Sites and Kandyan Dance
Guided tour for guests to explore Kandy at their own leisure. Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Travellers visit the famed Temple of the Tooth, the Royal Botanic Gardens and Gem Museum, and in the evening witness a traditional Kandyan dance accompanied by live music.
Day 7: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Discovering Nuwara Eliya – the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, a small city set against beautiful backdrops of mountains, valleys, waterfalls and tea plantations. Guests visit a tea plantation and factory to witness the complete process of turning the raw green leaf into the finished product.
Day 8: Horton Plains National Park
Morning discovery of Horton Plains National Park. Known to Sri Lankans as Mahaeliya, the park harbours 52 species of resident birds and 11 species of migrant birds, and 2,000 to 3,000 sambhur, bear monkey, leopard, barking deer, giant squirrel, fishing cat, wild boar and hares roam in the forests and grasslands. The afternoon is free to relax or explore the small town of the area.
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya – Bentota/Beruwala
Travel by road to Bentota/Beruwela, a small resort town in the southwestern coastal belt where the beaches boast a dazzling combination of sun, sea and sand. Guests spend two serene nights in the coastal paradise. The afternoon is free to relax and enjoy at leisure.
Day 10: Galle Excursion
Excursion to Galle. This was the most ancient and important harbour of the country until the Colombo harbour was established. Travellers learn about its famed lace-making, ebony carving, gem cutting and polishing industries, and explore the bazaar for local hand-crafted souvenirs.
Day 11: Departure
A leisurely breakfast before travelling back to Colombo. The tour finishes by late afternoon with a direct transfer to the international airport.
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