The Essence of Sri Lanka

Upon arrival at Colombo Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. This traditional fishing village is surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and extensive mangrove forests. Here, you can relax on the beach and unwind from your journey, far from the hustle and bustle of Colombo.

The rest of the day is free for you to enjoy. Optionally, you can take a city tour to explore the fish market, the canals of Negombo, and the mangrove forest. Perhaps you will spot some remarkable wildlife along the way!

After an early breakfast, you leave the coast behind and travel into the enchanting interior, heading towards the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, you will have the opportunity to climb the impressive Lion’s Rock. This iconic fortress once served as a refuge for King Kasyapa, who built his palace and fortress atop a 175-meter-high rock.

Optional: A domestic flight to Sigiriya is available for an additional fee.

Today, you decide how to organize your day. Relax by the pool or explore the surroundings with an optional excursion to Anuradhapura, the oldest royal city of Sri Lanka, or visit Mihintale, the sacred mountain where King Tissa converted to Buddhism in 247 BC.

Both excursions can be booked for an additional charge.

Early in the morning, you can optionally take a hot air balloon ride over Kandalama before embarking on your exploration of Polonnaruwa. This ancient royal city was hidden in the jungle for many years and was only rediscovered in the 19th century. Walk past temples, palace ruins, and impressive Buddha statues, and feel transported back in time.

In the afternoon, you can optionally go on a safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or the Eco National Park.

Today, you will visit the famous cave temple of Dambulla, with 153 Buddha statues and stunning wall paintings. The serene atmosphere makes this place especially special.

Later in the day, you arrive in Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. In the evening, you can attend a traditional dance performance.

Before continuing your journey, you visit the Temple of the Tooth and attend a morning ceremony. Afterwards, you travel through the scenic mountain landscape to Hatton, known for its tea plantations. You arrive just in time for a late lunch.

Today, you will take a private tour of the tea plantation and factory, where you will learn more about the world-famous Sri Lankan tea and sample various flavors. The rest of the day allows you to relax and enjoy the facilities of your accommodation.

You will travel by train from Hatton to the charming mountain village of Ella. This spectacular train journey of approximately six hours offers breathtaking views of green tea plantations and misty mountains.

After arriving in Ella, you will continue to Yala National Park, where you will stay for two nights in a luxurious accommodation amidst nature.

Early in the morning, you go on a safari in Yala National Park, one of the best places in the world to spot leopards. Additionally, elephants, crocodiles, monitor lizards, and countless colorful birds live here.

After a relaxing afternoon, you will enjoy a second jeep safari to discover even more wildlife.

After a peaceful breakfast, you will travel to the south coast for a relaxing stay in Tangalle, a tropical paradise with pristine beaches and swaying palm trees.

Enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or opt for an optional cooking class, where you will learn the secrets of Sri Lankan cuisine.

You continue your journey to Galle, a charming fortress town with a rich Dutch history. The UNESCO World Heritage Site Galle Fort offers a unique blend of colonial architecture, trendy cafes, and boutique shops.

Today, you can enjoy the coast or take an optional excursion to Mirissa, where you may spot whales and dolphins (depending on the season).

Depending on your flight, you will have some free time before returning to Colombo for your return flight. This marks the end of this impressive journey through Sri Lanka.