SRI LANKAN TRAILS

Day 01 : Arrival - Negombo

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), our representative and your chauffeur guide will warmly welcome you. After a smooth transfer to Negombo (approximately 30 minutes’ drive), take some time to unwind.

Note: If time allows, an evening boat tour in Negombo Lagoon awaits. Otherwise, gear up for an early morning boat ride the next day.

Negombo Lagoon Boat Tour :

Enjoy a beautiful evening boat tour on Negombo Lagoon, surrounded by peaceful scenery. Watch the water light up with vibrant colors as the sun sets. Sail through the channels with mangroves, see local fishermen at work, and admire picturesque landscapes. This gentle journey combines relaxation and exploration, creating a calm introduction to the exciting adventures ahead during your stay.

Dinner and overnight stay in Negombo.

Day 02 : Negombo - Habarana

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast, the perfect prelude to a day filled with natural wonders. Your journey then takes you to Habarana (approximately 3 ½ hours’ drive). Later in the afternoon, venture into Minneriya National Park for a safari, witnessing a breathtaking array of wildlife. This promises an evening filled with awe-inspiring moments in the wilderness.

Minneriya National Park :

This park is renowned for its vital role in elephant conservation, housing important habitats like the Minneriya Tank. The park's diverse vegetation includes dry-mixed evergreen tropical forests, riverine forests, scrublands, bamboo stands, and grasslands. During the jeep safari, you will have the opportunity to witness elephants year-round, along with other indigenous and endangered species.

Dinner and overnight stay in Habarana.

Day 03 : Habarana

With a packed breakfast, embark on a journey to Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore its historical wonders. Return to the hotel for relaxation before ascending Sigiriya in the evening. Scale the iconic rock fortress to witness the breathtaking sunset.

Polonnaruwa :

Discover the captivating ancient city, boasting well-preserved archaeological treasures and royal palaces. Wander through religious monuments and intricately carved sculptures, offering a glimpse into bygone eras.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress :

Experience the UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its historical significance and stunning natural beauty. Explore ancient ruins, gardens, and breathtaking frescoes, and challenge yourself with a rewarding climb to the summit for a spectacular sunset view.

Dinner and overnight stay in Habarana.

Day 04 : Habarana - Kandy

Following a delightful breakfast at the hotel, embark on a journey to Kandy (approximately 3 hours’ drive). En-route visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple, an ancient marvel showcasing intricate cave paintings and Buddha statues. Next, head to the Millennium Elephant Foundation for a unique and enriching ‘Elephant Walk Experience’. Upon returning to the hotel, take some time to relax and unwind. In the late afternoon, prepare to be enchanted by the vibrant Cultural Dance Show in the evening.

Dambulla Cave Temple :

The Dambulla Cave Temple, also called the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is a UNESCO site. Its caves carved into rocks with ancient Buddhist statues and paintings, over 2,000 years old. People visit for pilgrimage and to see the country's Buddhist history and art.

The Elephant Walk Experience :

This interactive encounter allows you to get up close and personal with these magnificent creatures. Learn about their care, observe their behavior, and take a stroll with them through the lush surroundings, creating lasting memories.

The half-day program encompasses the following activities:

• Guided Museum Tour
• A 45-Minute Stroll Alongside an Elephant
• Elephant Bathing Experience
• Feeding Elephants
• Visit an Elephant Dung Paper Factory

Cultural Dance Pageant :

The Kandyan Art Association & Cultural Centre offers daily shows, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the Kandyan Kingdom. These performances feature various styles of Kandyan dance and are popular among visitors. The center provides a picturesque view of the lake as it's situated along its shores.

Dinner and overnight stay in Kandy.

Day 05 : Kandy – Nuwara Eliya

Indulge in an early breakfast at your hotel. Thereafter, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a revered site that adds a profound dimension to your journey. Then, it is time to embark on a scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 3 ½ hours’ drive), often referred to as the "Little England" of Sri Lanka. En route, enjoy a thrilling white-water rafting expedition on the scenic Kelani River. Along the route, visit a working tea factory and plantation to discover the fascinating art of tea production. Check in to your hotel and unwind in the tranquil surroundings.

Temple of the Tooth Relic :

The Temple of the Tooth Relic houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. This revered Buddhist temple is located within the former royal palace complex of Kandy, which served as the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings. The temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, primarily due to its significance as the custodian of Buddha's tooth relic.

White-water Rafting :

Navigate through thrilling rapids on the Kelani River, surrounded by pristine nature. This adventure promises heart-pounding excitement amidst breathtaking scenery, making it a must-try activity for adrenaline seekers.

Visit a Tea Factory :

This visit shows how tea is made. It happens in factories nestled in the green hills where they grow tea. You'll see how they pick and process the leaves to make tea. You'll learn about different steps like withering, rolling, and drying. The air smells nice, and the tea fields look pretty. After the tour, you can taste different kinds of tea. It's a fun and educational stop for people who want to learn about Sri Lanka's famous tea culture.

Dinner and overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 06 : Nuwara Eliya - Ella

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. Afterward, you will enhance your experience with a serene boat ride on Gregory Lake, adding a touch of peace and tranquility to your delightful day. Next, head to Nanu Oya Railway Station to catch a train to Ella, known for its scenic train route (approximately 3 hours’ ride). Once you reach Ella Railway Station, your guide will escort you to your hotel. Take this time to settle in and appreciate the tranquility of this lovely town while surrounded by stunning scenery.

Gregory Lake Boat Ride :

When you get on the boat, you breathe in the fresh mountain air and feel relaxed. The lake is calm, reflecting the green trees all around. It feels like the sky and earth are connected. Birds sing sweetly as you glide on the clear water, making the journey even more magical.

Nanu Oya to Ella Train Journey :

As the train winds through the emerald-green heart of Sri Lanka, you will be captivated by sweeping views of misty mountains, rolling tea plantations, and lush valleys. This iconic journey promises an unforgettable tapestry of natural beauty, making every moment aboard the train a picture-perfect memory.

Dinner and overnight stay in Ella.

Day 07 : Ella

Start your day with a nice breakfast at the hotel. Take your time to explore the area and enjoy the beautiful sights and activities. You can go at your own pace and make special memories that you'll remember even after you leave.

Admire the views of Ella Gap from Little Adam’s Peak :

Little Adam’s Peak, in close resemblance to the main Adam’s Peak which is of sacred value to Sri Lanka, is one of the popular attractions of Ella. Giving hiking and trekking an adventure to cherish, for it yields beautiful views of tea plantations, and misty mountains ending with spectacular sunrises.

Admire the rushing Ravana Falls :

This marvelous waterfall is one of the widest in Sri Lanka and is one of the top attractions to see in the quaint town of Ella, Sri Lanka. It is worth the visit with fantastic views that look out to the surrounding valleys and mountains.

Adore the famous Nine Arch Bridge :

This is perhaps the most iconic structure in Ella and the most Instagrammed one! The Nine Arches Bridge, fondly referred to as the Bridge in the Sky, is a viaduct bridge that was constructed in 1921 and is the perfect example of colonial infrastructure in Sri Lanka.

Zip-lining :

The two-wire zip-line stretches for more than half a kilometer, slides at 80kmph, and offers a bird’s-eye view of the beautiful hills of the island. It is exclusively designed for adventure enthusiasts and adrenaline junkies who prefer a not-so-ordinary hillside experience.

Dinner and overnight stay in Ella.

Day 08 : Ella - Galle

After a leisurely breakfast, proceed to the coastal gem of Galle (approximately 3 ½ hours’ drive). Upon arrival at the hotel, take a leisurely break by the beach and pool, allowing yourself to unwind amidst the serene surroundings. In the evening, venture to the iconic Galle Fort for a captivating evening stroll.

Galle Fort :

Discover the magic of Galle Fort on a guided tour through its UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk the historic streets, admire colonial buildings, and explore local markets. Highlights include the Dutch Fort, Maritime Museum, and Galle Lighthouse. Learn fascinating stories from your guide about this special place.

Dinner and overnight stay in Galle.

Day 09 : Galle - Departure

After breakfast, proceed to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure (approximately 2 ½ hours’ drive). The timing of departure will be coordinated based on flight schedules for this day.

Take a moment to reflect upon the myriad of memories you have undoubtedly acquired throughout this exciting and enriching tour. Until your next journey, Sri Lanka bids you farewell with warm wishes and the hope that you return someday to create even more wonderful memories.

End of the Tour