Day 01 – Welcome and travel to Negombo
Upon arriving at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed to Sri Lanka by a Taprobane Leisure representative. Then you will travel a short distance to Negombo, about a 20-minute drive, and check in to the hotel.
Spend the day relaxing in the hotel or explore the long golden beaches and spectacular sunset in Negombo.
Overnight stay at Jetwing Blue Hotel.
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 luxurious Uga Ulagalla Resort. Relax like the ancient kings and queens at the hotel.
Overnight stay at Uga Ulagalla Resort.
Day 03 – Explore Mihintale and the Ritigala Forest Monastery
Fuel up at breakfast with the delicious spread available at the Resort. You’ll need the energy 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 Chetiya, 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 to the lavish Jetwing Vil Uyana after the day’s excursions for a long shower, scrumptious dinner, and peaceful sleep.
Overnight stay at Jetwing Vil Uyana.
Day 04 – 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 stay at Jetwing Vil Uyana.
Day 05 – Explore the Dambulla cave temple complex and visit Kandy city for a cultural program
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.
After Dambulla proceed to Kandy. On the way, you will visit the Spice Gardens in Matale. Learn about the many aromatic spices used in Sri Lankan curries.
Once you reach Kandy, the first stop is at 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.
At the end of the day, you get to enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance. Watch the electrifying energy of the dancers as they spin and jump to the beating of the drums.
After this eventful day go to W15 to relax in luxury amidst panoramic views.
Overnight stay at W15, Hanthana Estate (Kandy).
Day 06 – Relax amidst the hills in Hanthana
Today you get to relax and explore Sri Lankan Mountain ranges. Hanthana is ideal for rest and recuperation before continuing your Sri Lankan adventure. This town is located southwest of Kandy which is a crossroad connecting to most major cities in Sri Lanka.
The Hanthana mountain range stretches out from Kandy. Verdant green plains dotted with eucalyptus and lush evergreens meet rings of mountains as far as the eye can see. Cascading waterfalls slivering between the mountains splash into clear streams and natural pools. Relax amidst the glorious mountains.
Overnight stay at W15, Hanthana Estate (Kandy).
Day 07 – Learn about the famous Ceylon Tea in Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, you will head further into the hills via a 2-hour and 30-minute drive to Nuwara Eliya.
The charming town of Nuwara Eliya lies in the Central Province of Sri Lanka amidst misty mountain ranges. The Sri Lankan hill country is dotted with many tea estates. Take a tour of the estates and observe the process behind making your cuppa. You’ll get to see Sri Lankan tea pluckers hard at work on the hills, carefully picking two leaves and a bud which is essential to make fine tea. Their trained hands will work fast but the job requires precision only made efficient by years of practice. Afterward, visit a tea factory and see the processing and refining of the carefully plucked tea leaves.
While at the factory enjoy a steaming cup of your favourite tea, perfect for the chilly weather in Nuwara Eliya. Don’t forget to pack some to take back home. Ceylon Tea – Black Tea, Green Tea, Oolong Tea, Silver Tips, whatever your favourite tea is you are sure to find it here.
Overnight stay at Ceylon Tea Trails Bungalow.
Day 08 – Enjoy the luxuries of your hotel
Today is dedicated for you to relax. Enjoy all the amenities provided at Ceylon Tea Trails, take a peaceful walk, or meditate, the choice is yours.
Overnight stay at Ceylon Tea Trails Bungalow.
Day 09 – Safari adventure at Yala National Park
After breakfast head to the world-famous Yala National Park. A tour that is bound to bring ample fun and photo delights!
An unexpected Elephant on the road. The cherished glimpse of a lounging leopard. The mating dance of a peacock at sunset. A wild buffalo defending itself. Herds of roaming deer and deathly still crocodiles sunning on mud banks. Watch as nature unfolds at its most vibrant.
Yala is a haven for birds as well. Thousands of migratory water birds flocking in the numerous lagoons as well as the resident forest birds make Yala a bird lovers’ paradise.
Overnight stay at Dune Camp in Yala.
Day 10 – Morning safari ride and travel to Galle
Go on an early morning safari ride at Yala. If you are lucky you might get to spot the Asian Leopard, the Asian Elephant, Sambar and Spotted Deer, Wild Boar, Golden Jackal, Hanuman Langur, Toque Macaque, Mugger Crocodiles, and the elusive Sloth Bear. Among dry zone bird species, we will look out for the Brahminy Kite, Serpent Eagle, Crested Hawk-eagle, White-bellied Sea Eagle, and the occasional Shikra.
After your exciting safari, you travel down south to Galle for a laid-back evening exploring the old Galle town and Fort.
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. 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 beach in the evening and rest your legs after a day of walking and exploring. Sip a cold drink and watch the sunset over the rolling waves.
Overnight stay at Cape Weligama resort.
Day 11/12/13 – Relax on the down south beachside
The Southern Coast of Sri Lanka is speckled with long stretches of golden beaches. Some of the best-known beaches include Hiriketiya, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, and Kosgoda. If you want to explore there are many things to do along the south coast from surfing, whale or dolphin watching depending on the season, yoga retreats, meditation classes, and water sports. You can also chill by the beach on a hammock swaying lazily in the wind and drinking a refreshing king coconut water.
Overnight stay at Cape Weligama resort.
Day 14 – Enjoy city life in Colombo
The commercial capital of Sri Lanka is a riot of taste, sound, experience, and sensation. Colombo offers a wide array of options for any experience, be it dining, leisure, accommodation, or shopping. The builtscape and culture are marked by Dutch and British colonial influences of bygone eras.
Some landmarks of your Colombo tour will include; the President’s House and Chatham Street Clock Tower, Old Dutch Hospital now converted to a shopping and dining complex, Galle Face Green, the colourful Pettah shopping bazaar, the Gangaramaya Temple housing Buddhist artifacts from all over the world, National Museum depicting Sri Lanka’s historical and cultural heritage, the Independence Memorial Hall styled after a typical medieval Kandyan audience hall, the Independence Museum and the iconic Town Hall Building.
Return to the beautifully built Galle Face Hotel to rest for the night.
Overnight stay at Galle Face Hotel.
Day 15 – Bid farewell to Sri Lanka
Your luxury tropical escape in Sri Lanka has come to an end. We hope to see you again soon!
Proceed to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.
