Golden Sri Lanka: Journey of Wonders

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off and embark on a journey to one of Sri Lanka's most captivating destinations - Sigiriya Rock. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's also known as the “Lion Rock.” The rock is mesmerizing. It rises 200 meters from the scrub jungle around it. It is a regional landmark. It has a raised mesa. A fortress was ingeniously built on it centuries ago.

Upon arrival, prepare to be awe-struck by the sheer grandeur of Sigiriya. Climb up to the fortress. You will marvel at the stunning water gardens below. As you climb higher, you'll see the famous frescoes inside. They offer a glimpse into the ancient art and rich culture of the region. After the tour, return to Dambulla to further explore the region. Alternatively, you can join our optional excursion to Minneriya National Park* and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant wildlife. Overnight stay in Dambulla.

*Optional excursion to Minneriya National Park: Home to a diverse array of wildlife attracted to its varied topography and the Minneriya Tank, a man-made reservoir built in the 3rd century. The park is known for its permanent population of 150-200 Sri Lankan elephants.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you embark on a captivating village walking tour in Hiriwadunna. Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this typical Sri Lankan town as you stroll along the Wewa, a serene man-made reservoir, observing the local wildlife and townsfolk congregating by the water's edge. Cross the tranquil waters by catamaran to reach a traditional farm, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about indigenous agricultural practices and savor the hospitality of the farmer with a taste of freshly harvested vegetables.

In the afternoon, accompanied by your guide, venture to Polonnaruwa, an ancient capital of the illustrious Sri Lankan kingdom. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts monumental man-made reservoirs, including the expansive "Sea of Parakrama," surpassing even the size of Colombo harbor. Explore architectural marvels such as the Royal Palace complex, featuring the King's Palace and Audience Hall, and marvel at the Quadrangle's wealth of ancient heritage. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Gal Vihare complex, showcasing four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single slab of granite. After a day of exploration, transfer back to your hotel, reflecting on the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Overnight stay in Dambulla.

Breakfast at the hotel. Join your guide to begin the journey towards the historically-significant city of Kandy with two stops along the way. Before leaving the village, see the Dambulla Cave Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of five interconnected caves and features over 150 depictions of the Buddha. Though most of what we see dates to the early 19th century, some inscriptions come from as far back as the 2nd century BCE.

Next, visit the Spice Garden to learn more about the exotic botanicals that motivated centuries of trade and colonization on the island. Get a detailed look at the plants on display and enjoy a head and shoulder massage before you leave!

From there, arrive in Kandy and check in at your hotel. Head out for an included evening tour of the city including the Gem Museum and a Batik factory. Continue with a tour of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a complex with palaces, gardens, and of course a Buddhist temple. Finally, end your evening with an hour-long Kandy cultural show, where you’ll be wowed by dances with swords and fire. Overnight stay in Kandy.

Estimated transfer distance 93km/57miles.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you have a free day to explore the beauty of Kandy at your leisure. We recommend an optional visit to the Royal Botanical Garden* and suggest enjoying an optional cooking demonstration class at Thotupala Residency**. Overnight stay in Kandy.

Note: You can enjoy both activities on the same day.

*Optional tour to the Royal Botanical Garden: The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, are located approximately 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. This renowned garden attracts 2 million visitors annually and is situated near the Mahaweli River. It is especially known for its collection of orchids.

**Optional Cooking demonstration class at Thotupala Residency: This cooking class provides an opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes through practical experience. Activities include scraping coconut, cutting vegetables, grinding spices in a mortar and pestle, and other culinary tasks. Participants will have the chance to taste the Sri Lankan cuisine and gain knowledge about Sri Lankan spices.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by train to the southern city of Nuwara Eliya on a scenic journey. En route, visit a tea plantation to learn about the tea industry's historical impact on Sri Lanka's topography and demography. Introduced in 1867, tea remains a key export.

Arrive in Nuwara Eliya. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an evening walking tour starting at the iconic Golf Club, one of Asia's oldest. Visit the city’s oldest post office, a Tudor-style colonial building, and explore landmarks like the HNB Bank, Police Station, St. Xavier’s Church, and the Grand Hotel. Conclude with a stroll through Victoria Park and the Race Course. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you'll journey to Yala, making a scenic stop en route to admire the majestic Ravana waterfall. Upon arrival, check into your hotel in Yala. In the evening, you can experience the wild wonders of Yala National Park aboard a 4x4 jeep safari. Explore a vast expanse of forest, grassland, and lagoons along Sri Lanka's southeastern coast, bordering the Indian Ocean. It's an exhilarating opportunity to encounter the park's diverse wildlife, including leopards, elephants, and crocodiles, and discover a sanctuary for hundreds of bird species. Overnight stay in Yala.

Estimated transfer distance 160km/100miles.

Breakfast at the hotel. Make the journey to Galle with some intriguing stops along the way. Visit the historic and spiritual Kataragama Temple, then witness the captivating tradition of Stilt Fishing, an age-old method making a comeback after the 2004 tsunami, where fishermen perch on poles to cast their lines.

Arrive in Galle. Check in to your hotel, before starting a visit to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Once a bustling trading port for spices, today the fort offers a blend of history, romance, and beauty, inviting travelers to immerse themselves in its exotic stories. Overnight stay in Galle.

Estimated transfer distance 153km/95miles.

Breakfast at the hotel. Continue your journey with your guide to Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka. Embrace the lively atmosphere as you embark on a tuk-tuk tour through the city streets, where every corner reveals a new story. Explore the rich history and cultural diversity as you visit iconic landmarks such as the historic Wolfendhal Dutch Church, dating back to 1749, and the renowned Gangarama Temple, nestled by the scenic Beira Lake. Marvel at the city's lush greenery and well-maintained gardens, and admire the colonial-era architecture, exemplified by structures like the Dutch Hospital. Conclude your tour with a transfer to your hotel for the final check-in, reflecting on the memorable experiences of your Sri Lankan adventure. Overnight stay in Negombo.

Estimated transfer distance 157km/97miles.