Day 01 – Relaxing day in Negombo
You will be warmly welcomed to Sri Lanka by a representative from Taprobane Leisure once you arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Katunayake. From there on you will go to your hotel in Negombo, a short distance from the airport for a relaxing day after the long flight.
Negombo is a vibrant multicultural city. You can relax on long stretches of golden beach, explore the marshy lagoon, and listen to the fishermen’s calls as they bring in the catch of the day at sunset. Sip a cold drink by the beach while you watch the sun go down painting the sky in breathtaking hues of gold, purple, and pink. If you want a keepsake, grab a souvenir from the colourful handcraft shops at Lewis Place.
Overnight in Negombo.
Day 02 – Discover the sacred city of Anuradhapura
After a hearty breakfast, you will travel to Anuradhapura – the first capital city of ancient Sri Lanka.
Anuradhapura is one of Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The city is known for its well-preserved ruins which tell the tale of an advanced civilization dating back to the 5th Century BC. Amidst the ruins, you will discover a rich Buddhist heritage, fine sculpting, feats of architecture, and hydraulic wonders of a golden era centuries ago.
You can choose to walk or cycle through the sacred city of Anuradhapura with our guide who will take you through the Eight Sacred Sites called “Atamasthana” in Sinhalese. These are eight out of the sixteen sites that Lord Buddha is said to have visited in his three journeys to Sri Lanka.
The eight sites include:
- The sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhiya – A sapling from the Bo tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Ruwanweliseya – A pure white stupa rising magnificently into the blue-sky containing Lord Buddha’s relics.
- Thuparamaya – The first stupa to be built in Anuradhapura after the introduction of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.
- Lovamahapaya – A nine-story monastery that was tiled in copper plates. An architectural wonder of the times.
- Abhayagiriya – The second-highest stupa in Sri Lanka.
- Jethavanaramaya – The highest stupa built with bricks in the world.
- Mirisavetiya – A stupa built by King Dutugemunu containing his scepter, which could not be moved from this site, therefore he built the stupa around it.
- Lankaramaya – A stupa built by King Walagamba which was initially called “Somarama” in commemoration of Queen Soma who saved the King’s life.
After a day of exploration and learning come back to the hotel and rest for the day.
Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Day 03 – Hike Mihintale and Ritigala
Fuel up at breakfast today because you will be hiking up two peaks of religious and cultural importance in Sri Lanka.
First up is Mihintale where Arhat Mahinda met and preached Buddhism to King Devanampiyatissa, thus bringing Buddhism to Sri Lanka. Arhat Mahinda was the Mauryan King Ashoka’s son who was sent by him from India to bring Lord Buddha’s teachings to Sri Lanka. After this meeting, the Sinhalese people embraced Buddhism and it soon spread across the island nation, making Sri Lanka one of the most important strongholds of Theravada Buddhism in South and Southeast Asia.
Mihintale is revered by Sri Lankan Buddhists, and you will most likely come across white-clad pilgrims on their pilgrimage up the 1840 steps to the peak. Regardless of your beliefs, Mihintale paints a wondrous picture with ancient shrines, stupas, rock caves, and ponds tucked into the wooded hills. Some of the sites you will discover on your hike are Kantaka Cetiya, one of the earliest religious monuments of Sri Lanka; Ambastala Dagoba, the exact spot where Arhath Mahinda spoke to King Devanampiyatissa; Maha Stupa, the main stupa at the peak of Mihintale; Hospital, ruins of an old hospital; Kaludiya Pokuna, a black water pond which supplied water to a nearby monastery.
Following the Mihitale hike, you will be guided through the Ritigala archeological site and strict nature reserve. Ritigala peak stands 2513 ft above sea level. Throughout the hike, you will come across ruins of an old monastery dating back to the 1st century BC. The old stone paths, columns, and meditating platforms mystically rise through the lush green forest.
Head back to the hotel after the day’s excursions for a long shower, scrumptious dinner, and peaceful sleep.
Overnight in Anuradhapura.
Day 04 – Explore the Dambulla cave temple complex
After breakfast you will travel to Dambulla, well known for the most well-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Climb up the gentle slope of the Dambulla rock to reach the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The climb offers panoramic views of the surrounding flatlands including Sigiriya rock in the distance. The temple itself is made up of five caves. Inside these caves are a large collection of Buddha statues with varying artistry, and well-preserved Buddhist frescoes on the ceilings and walls.
Spend your evening at the hotel or explore Dambulla town. Try a traditional Sri Lankan rice and curry meal and chat with the locals. Rest for the evening at the hotel in Sigiriya.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Day 05 – Delve into Sigiriya rock fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa
After breakfast, you start the hike up Sigiriya rock. Prepare to be amazed by the remnants of this fortress and palace built by King Kashyapa in the 5th Century AD. Another one of Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Sigiriya is also endearingly termed the eighth wonder of the world. When you explore the ruins, you’ll understand why.
The fortress and the palace on top of the Sigiriya rock are a testament to sophisticated planning and technology used by ancient civilizations of Sri Lanka. Prepare to be amazed by how such a structure was built on top of a bare rock. The ruins show that not only was the fortress imposing but also aesthetically pleasing with its many ponds and gardens at the base, the frescoes inside caves, the moon wall, and the lion’s paws. After a short hike, you will reach the top of Sigiriya rock with the ruins of the palace, where you’ll be blessed with breathtaking panoramic views of the grounds below and the surrounding plains.
The museum at the base of the rock will help you learn even more about the history of Sigiriya. Check it out before your hike or after.
After the invigorating morning hike up Sigiriya, you move on to explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Some of the sites you will see within the 11th & 12th Century medieval capital Polonnaruwa include the flora stone pillared pavilion called Nissanka Latha Mandapaya; the Royal Citadel and the ponds; the Vatadage relic house; Tuparamaya image house; the circular relic house; the golden pinnacled stupa – Rankoth Vehera; the finely engraved moonstones; guard stones and sculptures; Kirivehera dagoba; the Polonnanru Gal Viharaya with massive stone Buddha statues; Menik Vehera – a Lotus shaped stupa; and the stone statue of King Parakramabahu the Great.
After you explore the ruins, take a walk around Parakrama Samudraya, the massive lake akin to an ocean built by King Parakramabahu which irrigates the city and the farmlands to this day. Relax in the quiet tranquility of the lake for a few moments before returning to your hotel for the night.
Overnight in Sigiriya.
Day 06 – Walk around Kandy city and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
After breakfast, you will travel to Kandy, the last capital city before colonial rule. Situated in the Central Province, Kandy is a sacred city for Buddhists as it is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. If you visit in mid-August, you could get to see the annual Esala Perhara – a cultural highlight in Sri Lanka.
First off you will visit the sacred Tooth Relic Shrine (Dalada Maligawa) which houses Lord Buddha’s tooth relic. The shrine is preserved in all its glory with the original Kandyan architecture. There are stone carvings including the Kandyan moonstone and the entrance gate called “Mahavahalkada”, ivory carvings on the doors of the upper floor, and a golden canopy over the main shrine. Witness the traditional drumming during the morning, noon, and evening, learn the rituals and honors accorded to the Relic and find out the history of this heritage and its custodians. Enjoy a walk around Kandy Lake and discover the many gems of this walkable city.
After the city tour check in to the hotel, freshen up, and head out to the town for a cultural night. Enjoy the vibrant colours, booming drums, and an enthralling performance by traditional Kandyan dancers.
Return to the hotel after your exciting night for a restful sleep.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 07 – Explore Udawattakale forest reserve
Spend your morning relaxing at the hotel, get in some pool time or work up a tan sunbathing.
Towards late morning explore the Udawattakele forest reserve, the 160 acres of tropical rainforest behind Dalada Maligawa. Rich in flora and fauna this forest is famous for the giant spiraling creepers called “pus wela”. There is also a diverse array of birds, butterflies, and several small animals. You will come across the Senkada cave, a meditation center of a hermit, and The Garrison Cemetery, a collection of 150 British tombs from the 15th century. The Forest is surrounded by a cluster of hills. Hike up the highest one among them known as Kodimale peak.
Return to the hotel and relax in the evening or go for one last stroll around Kandy city. You’re sure to find some unique knickknacks to take home as souvenirs.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 08 – Discover enchanting Ella with its mystical Ravana legends
After breakfast, you will travel to Ella. An idyllic hill country town with cozy cafes, friendly locals, and little tea shops tucked into the winding roads. The nine-arch bridge, little Adams peak, and Ella rock are well-known scenic hotspots you can visit.
Ella is steeped in Ravana legend from the Hindu epic Ramayanaya. This legend is older than the recorded history of Sri Lanka. The tale goes that legendary Sri Lankan king Ravana kidnapped Indian princess Sita and hid her from her lover, prince Rama in the hills of Ella. There are different variations of the story if you are curious to learn more. Many sites in Ella are called after Ravana and Sita such as the Ravana Ella a waterfall and pond where Sita is said to have bathed while in Sri Lanka and the Sita cave where she was kept hidden.
Talk with the locals to find out more about the Ravana legend, take a train journey over the nine-arch bridge, hike little Adam’s peak or Ella Rock, and explore the many waterfalls in the area. Ella will never seize to excite you.
After a day of adventure and exploration, you will go to Haputale and check in to your hotel to rest for the night.
Overnight in Haputale.
Day 09 – Experience the Sri Lankan hill country in Haputale
Have a hearty breakfast and escape into the misty hills in Haputale. The lesser-known counterpart of Ella, Haputale is a dreamy hill country town with tea plantations, an abundance of waterfalls, and a slightly chilly climate. Explore famous sites around Haputale including Lipton’s seat, the old lookout point of Sir Thomas Lipton; the beautifully cascading Diyaluma Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka; Benedictine monastery; Thangamale Bird Sanctuary; and the Dambatenna tea factory established about a century ago by Sir Thomas Lipton. Get first-hand experience of the tea manufacturing process at the tea factory from sorting and refining to the end product – a warm and delicious cup of tea. Don’t forget to buy some of the famous Ceylon tea to take back home, to remind you of your Sri Lankan journey.
If you would like to add some adventure to the day, go to Prabhawa mountain viewpoint, set about two and a half hours of a walk through the wooded hills. The viewpoint opens up to give panoramic views of the mountainside with sun rays grazing over and cutting through the slow-rolling mist.
You can also catch the sunset over the tea plantation hills, the gold sunshine hitting the lush green leaves and ending with candy floss clouds in bright magenta pink hues.
Head over to the hotel and cozy in under your duvet for the night.
Overnight in Haputale.
Day 10 – Partake in the vibrant rituals of Kataragama
Today you will get to learn and partake if you’d like in the rituals at the Kataragama shrine. This is the most celebrated pilgrim site in Sri Lanka and is venerated by both Buddhists and Hindus. It is one of the sixteen sites visited by Lord Buddha in his three journeys to Sri Lanka.
Kataragama Shrine is dedicated to the Kataragama God with six faces and twelve hands often depicted riding his vehicle – the peacock. Kataragama is a city buzzing with devout Buddhists and Hindus who come all year round to worship the god and ask for blessings. They leave their worries, fears, and hopes at the hands of the god and make their offerings. In the busy streets, you will find sellers of fruits, flowers, bead chains, statues of deities, and all kinds of spiritual items. In July/August the pilgrim site intensifies in its fervor as the annual procession falls during this time. If you visit during this time you might get to see the procession with its kaavadi dancers, drumming, a cacophony of music and colour, and the many rituals in worship of the Kataragama God.
Kiri Vehera, a pure white stupa like the colour of milk which is called “Kiri” in Sinhalese and Sella Kataragama where the God Kataragama met his first consort Valli Amma are also places of interest to visit.
After visiting the religious sites make your way to the archeological museum in the city to learn more about Buddhist and Hindu religious rituals related to Kataragama God. End the day at Menik Ganga the river which flows through the city. Watch as the sun sets beyond the river waters and return to the hotel for the night.
Yala National Park is nearby Kataragama and if you are after an adventurous safari ride that can be arranged into the itinerary.
Overnight in Kataragama.
Day 11 – Walk around the old town of Galle and the Galle Fort
After breakfast proceed to Galle.
Galle is a delightful seaside town with well-preserved Dutch colonial architecture. Walk along the Galle fort ramparts and explore this Portuguese-built and Dutch fortified fort. There are two museums for those of you who want to learn more about the history of Galle and colonial rule in Sri Lanka – the Galle National Museum and the Galle maritime museum. Have lunch at one of the cozy cafes off the small, paved roads inside the old town. After lunch keep exploring because you’re bound to find some curiosity or the other, a heritage house or a church just around the corner. Explore the unique little shops selling all manner of jewelry, crafts, antiques, and souvenirs. Grab something to remember this charming town and your Sri Lankan journey.
Relax by the nearby Unawatuna beach in the evening and rest your legs after a day of walking and exploring. Strike up a conversation with the friendly locals. Sip a cold drink and watch the sunset over the rolling waves.
Overnight in Unawatuna.
Day 12 – Enjoy the beach life in Mirissa
Spend the morning at the beach in Unawatuna and explore the surrounding area. Grab your lunch at the hotel and then head a little further down the West Coast to Mirissa another bustling beach town. The Mirissa beach is best from November to April.
Mirissa is a laid-back beach town perfect for a quick getaway. Swing gently on a hammock with warm sunlight streaming through the leaves of a coconut palm. The sea breeze is perfect for a little nap or to cozy up with a good book and a delicious king coconut water.
Mirissa is a hotspot for surfers, and you’d probably see a few catching the waves. Swim in the azure blue waters. After your swim grab a hot roti and steaming cup of black tea called “plain tea” by locals from a street vendor.
There are quite a few Yoga spots in Mirissa that have sprung up recently. If you’d like we can arrange for a yoga class to bring peace and balance to your mind, body, and soul.
After a relaxing day in Mirissa head back to your hotel in Unawatuna for the night.
Overnight in Unawatuna.
Day 13 – Two days in diverse Bentota
Bentota truly has it all. This beach town on the South Coast of Sri Lanka offers a little bit of everything from watersports to history and architecture to ayurvedic healing.
Stay at a luxurious beach resort and enjoy world-class comfort and cuisine. Try different types of seafood. Take a dip in the ocean or the pool or both.
If you’d like to explore the area a little more visit the Lunuganga Estate, – the country home of the famous architect Geoffrey Bawa set against a sprawling 15-acre estate bordering the Bentota river. Geoffrey Bawa is called the “Genius of the Place” for his uncanny ability to incorporate architecture into the existing natural beauty of places to elevate his designs. The result is that the buildings feel like they have become one with nature.
You can also explore Madu Ganga with its rich mangroves and many islands with a local tour guide on a boat safari. For a little more history visit the Galapatha Temple to see Kandyan period carvings and stone inscriptions.
Return to the hotel in Bentota for the night.
Overnight in Bentota.
Day 14 – Head over to the airport
Relax by the beach or in the hotel, get that last-minute packing done, and say goodbye to Sri Lanka. We hope you found everything you were seeking in your travels.
Proceed to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.
