Welcome / Airport Pick-Up or Meeting Point - Discover Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, Reswehera Stone Buddha Statue

Katunayake - Upon arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport or a designated meeting point, you will be warmly greeted by your dedicated National Tourist Guide Lecturer or Chauffeur Tourist Guide, who will be your local companion throughout your exciting journey in Sri Lanka.

After the warm welcome, your guide will provide an overview of the tour, and you will be transferred to a nearby restaurant, just a 20-minute drive away, to enjoy some refreshments after your flight. Here, you can savor a delightful Sri Lankan breakfast, complete with a hot cup of Ceylon black tea or coffee. (This does not apply to those meeting at the meeting point).

Following this, we will head to Anuradhapura, where you will embark on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s picturesque countryside landscapes towards the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Yapahuwa Rock Fortress - On the way to Anuradhapura, explore the lesser-known marvel of Yapahuwa Rock. This impressive granite rock rises sharply to a height of 90 meters from the surrounding jungle plains. This great citadel and military stronghold served as Sri Lanka’s capital from 1273 to 1284. It was also home to Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist relics, including Buddha’s Tooth Relic, which was stored in the Tooth Temple. A magnificent ascending staircase provides access to climb the rock, offering dramatic sweeping views of the central plains as a reward for reaching the top. Yapahuwa is briefly mentioned in guidebooks but is one of many highlights in the local area. The vast system of reservoirs is teeming with birdlife, and secret Buddhist caves and historic sites are gradually being rediscovered and made accessible to visitors, all while supporting their protection. The region’s highlights are best discovered through local knowledge.

Reswehera (Sesseruwa) Rajamaha Viharaya | රැස්වෙහෙර (සැස්සේරුව) රජ මහා විහාරය - Next, visit the Reswehera Buddhist Temple, another lesser-known landmark. While the famous Aukana Buddha Statue is a greater work of art, many visitors find the Sasseruwa Buddha even more enchanting due to the silence and beauty of its location. The rock is higher and more secluded, situated in the middle of nowhere. The ancient Rasvehera cave monastery and its colossal Sasseruwa Buddha statue remain undisturbed by mass tourism, making it an off-the-beaten-path destination, though not far from Aukana. It is located at the remote end of a dead-end road. Apart from the rock-cut Sasseruwa Buddha statue, Rasvehera boasts three more attractions: one of the oldest Bo trees in Sri Lanka, painted caves with murals in the Kandyan style, and elephant wildlife. Rasvehera, a typical Sri Lankan forest monastery from the Anuradhapura period, is still surrounded by wilderness and has been declared a wildlife conservation area.

Nuwara Wewa - In the evening, enjoy a walk along the Nuwara Wewa Lake bund, taking in the beautiful sunset and the pleasant evening atmosphere of the lakeside, accompanied by the songs of numerous birds.

Discover the Royal Kingdom of Anuradhapura (UNESCO World Heritage)

Anuradhapura Ancient City - After breakfast, depart to explore the Ancient Anuradhapura City. Sri Lanka boasts a rich culture and history, and Anuradhapura was one of the greatest and oldest civilizations in the world. It served as the first capital and was ruled by 113 kings for over 1500 years. This excursion will take approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes to explore all major and important monuments that can be visited in a day. The tour will begin at Isurumuniya Temple and Vessagiriya Monastery, followed by visits to Sri Maha Bodhi, the sacred tree under which ascetic Siddha attained Enlightenment and became Gautama Buddha, standing proudly for more than 2200 years. Next, visit Ruwanweliseya, Abhayagiriya Monastery, and Jethawanaramaya. All these monuments and ruins embody the ancient culture, heritage, education, trade network, and supremacy of the strongest kingdom in Sri Lankan history. In the evening, return to the hotel and relax in the calm and quiet natural surroundings.

Remote Village Tour / Sunset at Pidurangala Rock

Habarana Lake - After breakfast, embark on a wonderful journey through the stunning Sri Lankan countryside towards Sigiriya, a masterpiece of Ancient Sri Lanka’s dynasty. En route to Sigiriya, approximately a 1-hour and 15-minute drive, enjoy a stopover at Habarana, where you’ll engage in a memorable Village Tour experience while exploring the inspiring countryside. This is a great opportunity to get close to a unique local culture and experience the lifestyle of an authentic community. The tour begins with a Bullock Cart Ride, one of the most famous transportation systems in early Sri Lanka. During the tour, you will also enjoy a Catamaran ride on a local tank before reaching the farmer’s mud house, where you will experience typical Sri Lankan bucolic hospitality and an authentic cooking demonstration, followed by a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. The entire experience will take up to 2 and a half hours.

Pidurangala Rock - By evening, make your way to the stunning Pidurangala Rock, as it is the best time to witness and capture the magical sunset. Known as the “Brother rock of Sigiriya,” the climb can be a bit challenging, but the breathtaking views from the top make it well worth the effort. It offers an incredible 360-degree viewpoint located opposite the world-famous Sigiriya Lion Rock. Alternatively, you can opt for a canoeing ride at a nearby lake to catch the sunset while sitting on a catamaran.

Sigiriya / Dambulla Cave Temple / Spicy Gardens / Riverston

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - After breakfast, begin the day at the magnificent Sigiriya Rock. Sigiriya is considered an art gallery due to its remarkable blend of nature and human influence, featuring incredible granite works and an enchanting array of frescoes. Although it was literally a kingdom, Sigiriya also served as an ancient metropolitan city, as found in chronicles, through an ancient trade network developed by King Kashyapa from 477 to 495 AD. Climb to the top to admire the breathtaking views and the magical man-made constructions on the rock’s summit, decorated with colorful frescoes. Marvel at this exquisite craftsmanship and enjoy a panoramic view of the boundless forest.

Dambulla Cave Temple - En route to Knuckles Mountain, visit the Golden Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This living Buddhist site is centered around a series of five cave shrines, known to be the largest and best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The enchanting plethora of paintings covers an area of 2,100 m2 and is particularly significant after the golden statues that can surprise a curious explorer. Upon interest, enjoy a stopover at Matale Spice Gardens to experience the real aroma of Sri Lankan pure spices grown in the cool central highlands. Afterwards, continue the journey, approximately a 2-hour drive, to Knuckles Mountain (Riverston) to be amazed by misty and windy rock cliffs while enjoying the splendor of crystal waterfalls.

Trek to the Misty Knuckles Mountain Range

Knuckles Conservation Forest - After breakfast, embark on a dream journey into the misty wilderness of the Knuckles mountain range. It is one of the most beautiful rainforests in Sri Lanka and was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2010. Begin trekking across the mountain through pygmy forest and tea plantations, encountering remains of volcanoes that were active about 1200 years ago. Until the end of the trip, the trekking, hill walking, and bird and animal watching will be under the forest canopy. Along the way, you can see a variety of birds endemic to Knuckles, medicinal herbs, and chanting cascades. While trekking through the rainforest, you may spot wild boars, mongooses, wildcats, and sambar deer. Occasionally, you might be lucky enough to glimpse leopards. At the end of the walking trail, head to the Ash Cave Campsite in the middle of the Knuckles range to enjoy an unforgettable chicken barbecue under the shade of bonfires.

Knuckles Mountain Range / Heart of the Central Highlands / Cultural Dance

Knuckles Mountain Range - After breakfast, continue the journey through the evergreen woods to experience the true essence of the Knuckles. You may encounter various bird and mammal species and, if interested, climb the mountain peak.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - By afternoon, make your way back to Kandy and enjoy lunch there. Afterwards, visit the world-famous and most revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, originally the Royal Palace Complex and later transformed into one of the most venerated and valuable Buddhist temples in the world. With a few reforms, this glorious building houses one of the two surviving Sacred Tooth Relics of Gautama Buddha, an auspicious living object of veneration in the Buddhist world.

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show - At twilight, take a short walk to witness the stunning Cultural Dance Show, a compelling blend of Sri Lankan arts, dance, and cultural heritage that is a must-see. Presented by the most talented and committed traditional dancers and drummers of Sri Lanka, who are dedicated to preserving and promoting Sri Lanka’s authentic dances and arts for future generations. They perform various types of dances that are unique to different regions of the island. This colorful performance will be a lasting experience and will remain in memory as a once-in-a-lifetime experience with its authentic beat of Sri Lankan arts and culture.

Kandy City Tour / Train Ride to Hatton

Kandy City Center - After breakfast, drive around the picturesque Kandy Lake and enjoy a panoramic view of the glorious Kandy City. Known as the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and one of the island’s renowned cities, Kandy is surrounded by breathtaking hills and misty mountains. The city itself enjoys a mesmerizing climate throughout the year, attracting people to its unique beauty. Popularly known as “Maha Nuwara,” meaning ‘The Great City,’ Kandy is full of magnificent architectural marvels that blend Sinhalese, Indian, and British designs. The city of Kandy has been one of the most visited and venerated cities among Buddhists worldwide and many other international travelers. Based on Buddhist architecture, Kandy was the last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings until the British invasion in the 18th century. Due to its significant exhibits, Kandy was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988.

Natural Gems and Gemmological Museum - Afterwards, leave the city center and visit a gem shop to learn more about the world-renowned and prestigious Sri Lankan gems and jewelry and how they are crafted using traditional techniques. Then, take a short trip to a wood carving center to observe the talents of local craftsmen and how they bring these eye-catching wooden creations to life.

Hatton - Bid farewell to Kandy and board a train for a memorable ride through lush green and verdant tea plantations in Sri Lanka’s central highlands to Hatton. This ride is the first part of the famous Kandy to Ella train journey and is one of the most beautiful legs of the trip, offering picturesque views. Travel through cold and misty hills that host hectares of lush green tea plantations, farmlands, and forests, providing fantastic views of the hill country. The journey lasts about 2 hours.

In the evening at Hatton, explore the lush greenery or simply enjoy a cup of Ceylon’s finest tea while taking in the surrounding misty scenery.

Cycle in Tea Estates / Enjoy Aroma of Pure Ceylon Black Tea / White Water Rafting

Hatton - Hatton is a small town nestled in the hills of Sri Lanka. Situated 4,170 feet above sea level, it is cooler than the rest of the island and was a favorite holiday spot for the British. Today, Hatton is best known for its tea and magnificent nature. Wear comfortable shoes and get ready to explore Hatton and its charming attractions.

When thinking of Hatton, tea is the first thing that comes to mind. The entire region is surrounded by green hills covered in acres of tea bushes. One of the best activities is walking or hiking through a tea plantation or cycling, where you will be treated to amazing views. Be sure to go in the morning, as the mountains become covered by mist later in the day. End the tea estate tour with a visit to the factory, where you can experience a tea-tasting and observe the rich tradition of making Ceylon tea that has been preserved to this day.

Horton Plains National Park - If interested, head to Horton Plains National Park early in the morning to observe its unique and captivating biodiversity. On the way to Horton, enjoy stopovers at Ambewela New Zealand Farm and the mouthwatering Strawberry Farm.

Due to the large number of endemic flora and fauna species, Horton Plains was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site. Its surroundings, forests, and the adjoining peak wilderness constitute Sri Lanka’s most important catchment area for almost all major rivers. Located at an elevation of 2,100–2,300 meters, it encompasses montane grassland and cloud forest.

Ambewela Farms - If visiting Horton Plains, take the opportunity to visit The New Zealand Park, part of the famous Ambewela Farm, which includes dairy farms. The New Zealand farm is located only 3-4 km away and rears purebred Friesian cows, maintaining a pure line of cattle to ensure high-quality milk. The cows are provided with a rich diet and sterilized water, and excellent healthcare is available 24/7. Upon arrival at the visitor site, you will feel transported to a remote town in England. Not only do the weather and environment appear foreign to Sri Lanka, but the little English-styled cottages of the staff, meadows covered in important grass, and European cows complete the transformation of the landscape into a little English town.

Nuwara Eliya - For lunch, head to Nuwara Eliya, the Hill Country Resort. The city is blessed with a salubrious climate, breathtaking views of valleys, meadows, mountains, and lush green surroundings. It is the main hill resort of Sri Lanka and the heart of the famous Ceylon tea. The town enjoys spring-like weather throughout the year and is also known as “Little England,” a favorite hill station of British planters who tried to create Nuwara Eliya into a typical English village. The old post office, country house-like hill club with its hunting pictures, Gregory Park in the evening, and horse racecourse remind you of England, with many English-style bungalows and different buildings on the hilltops. This is a brilliant travel escape for those who miss the cold breeze in this tropical country and enjoy a salubrious hermitage.

Upon interest, stroll through Nuwara Eliya city center and the fruit and vegetable market.

Train Journey Through the Mountains / Mini Adam’s Peak

Nanu Oya Railway Station - After breakfast, head to Nanu Oya Railway Station to catch the train of dreams, then enjoy the second and most spectacular train journey from Nanu-Oya to the resort town of Ella. (Approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes of train ride) This is considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, passing through lush and verdant valleys, green tea plantations, vegetable farms, abandoned forests, grass meadows, and many more breathtaking vistas.

Ella - The destination of Ella is approximately 200 kilometers east of Colombo and is situated at an elevation of 1,041 meters (3,415 feet) above sea level. Walk in the Ella village, a favorite hill country village due to its wonderful nature-friendly location. The Nine Arch Bridge is a major tourist attraction in Ella, a massive bridge built entirely of solid rocks, bricks, and cement without using a single piece of steel. Ella is a great place for walking and climbing, and its most famous trekking route is to “Little Adam’s Peak.” Alternatively, in the evening, relax at the village center, where there are many restaurants, pubs, and evening entertainment options.

Explore Rawana Waterfall & Cave / 4x4W Jeep Safari at Bundala National Park

Ravana Ella Falls - After breakfast, depart from Ella towards Bundala National Park, with a stopover at Ravana waterfall. Explore the Ravana Cave, another lesser-visited attraction in Ella. Ravana Cave is a prominent spectacle in Ella, located behind the cascade, Ravana Falls (Ravana Ella), considered one of the widest in Sri Lanka, especially during the rainy season.

Bundala National Park - Proceed to Bundala, approximately a 1-hour and 45-minute drive. In the afternoon, enjoy a half-day 4x4W Jeep Ride, searching for bird species, deer, elephants, and crocodiles patrolling the lakes. A vast area of forest, grassland, and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean in southern Sri Lanka, Bundala is one of the most visited national parks in Sri Lanka from November to March. It is home to wildlife, mainly hundreds of migrant and endemic bird species, crocodiles, deer, and elephants. It features a variety of ecosystems, including moist monsoon forests, dry monsoon forests, semi-deciduous forests, thorn forests, grasslands, marshes, marine wetlands, and sandy beaches.

Relax at the Beach / Go Surfing

Hiriketiya Beach - Finally, arrive at the world-famous beachside of Sri Lanka. The south coast is a delightful sandy beach characterized by white sands and palm trees growing right from the edge of the sea, resembling a postcard of the perfect tropical beach. Hiriketiya Bay is a hidden gem of Sri Lanka’s south coast, a little horseshoe bay with good surf year-round for all levels in the perfect paradise. It is a picture-perfect beach with all the elements of paradise, including some people and surfer waves! This horseshoe bay has waves for both beginners and the more advanced, with cute little beach cabanas offering amazing juices and banana pancakes, creating a tropical vibe. Jackpot!

Excursion to Bentota / Galle Fort

Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project - Continue the coastal drive towards Bentota along the southern coast, enjoying the magnificent view of the Indian Ocean. First, visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, a conservation project aimed at protecting Sri Lanka’s turtles from extinction. It plays a crucial role in safeguarding these magnificent natural creatures, as the turtle population was considered endangered in recent decades. The hatchery collects eggs at night along the sandy beach and keeps them safe until they hatch. After being fed, the baby turtles are released into the sea when they are old enough to thrive in their natural habitat.

Natural Moonstone Mine and Gem Palace - Continue the drive to Galle and enjoy a stopover at the famous Moonstone Mine in Ambalangoda to explore the mine and learn about the process of producing these shiny moonstones after they are mined and excavated in Sri Lanka’s largest moonstone mine. The moonstones in Sri Lanka are renowned for their slight blue tinge, with the rarest and finest moonstones being almost transparent with a strong blue shine.

Galle Dutch Fort - Explore the vibrant city of Galle, which embraces its ancient and colonial past. It is particularly known for Galle Fort, the fortified old city founded by Portuguese colonists in the 16th century. Later, the stone sea walls were expanded by the Dutch in the 17th century, making it the best surviving and largest fort in Asia built by European occupiers. Encircle car-free streets with architecture reflecting Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. Notable buildings include the 18th-century Dutch Reformed Church, the picturesque Galle lighthouse on the fort’s southeast tip, the natural harbor, St. Mary’s Cathedral, and the recently built National Maritime Museum, all contributing to Galle’s spectacular vicinity that attracts keen travelers. In the afternoon, walk through the streets to observe how European architecture mingles with South Asian traditions, attracting cultural enthusiasts worldwide. The historical Galle Lighthouse stands proudly on the southeast tip of the fort.

Unawatuna Beach - Upon arrival at your hotel, grab a towel to relax on the beach while enjoying a cocktail or a chilled beer under the shade of a palm tree. Enjoy walking along the seashore and discover seafront restaurants offering authentic Sri Lankan seafood, with a wonderful crab curry likely on the menu.

Relax at Galle

Unawatuna Beach - Enjoy relaxation at Unawatuna Beach.

Colombo City Tour / Departure

Colombo - After breakfast, proceed to the capital, Colombo, which has an interesting history dating back to the fifth century AD. Even in ancient times, it was an important port city in the East-West maritime trade network. Today, it is the commercial capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka. The city boasts a diverse architecture spanning centuries, depicting different styles. Colombo is a majestic city with a unique blend of modern and colonial influences. Portuguese, Dutch, and English influences coexist alongside structures built in Buddhist, Islamic, Hindu, and contemporary architectural styles. Fascinatingly, Colombo has become a popular destination among tourists due to its modern development projects and elegant city hotels, along with lavish shopping malls that have made Colombo an important shopping destination for international tourists.

Colombo City Centre - In Colombo, visit the city’s most highlighted places and enjoy some last-minute shopping. Perhaps, consider dining at a famous and internationally renowned restaurant in Colombo to conclude the trip with an unforgettable meal.

By evening, proceed to the airport in time for the return flight or return to your hotel in Colombo, bidding farewell to this mesmerizing 14-day experience across the paradise isle of Sri Lanka.

• Food & Lodging for The Guide & Chauffeur
• Unlimited Bottled Drinking Water, Snacks & Refreshments
• Convenient Stays at 3 or 4 Star Hotels, Boutique Hotels, Luxury Resorts on Half-Board Basis
• Assistance in arranging Foods as per the Clients’ requirements and interests
• Lunch
• All government Taxes and Charges
• Admission to Remote Village Tour Experience
• Dinner
• Breakfast
• 2nd Class Train Tickets on Availability
• Service of a Friendly & Professional National Tourist Guide Lecturer
• All transfers on a Modern Luxury Air Conditioned vehicle and all it’s related expenses
• One Camp Night in a Forest Reserve

• Airfares & Visa fee
• Any expenses in Personal Nature
• Travel Insurance
• Tips and Gratuities
• Entry fees for Attractions & Activities
• Meals (Lunch) where not mentioned

This exclusive tour is designed for energetic travel enthusiasts seeking a once-in-a-lifetime experience on less-traveled roads. The tour includes all the elements a discerning traveler desires, offering a perfect blend of historical sites, pristine nature, mountains, waterfalls, biodiversity, beaches, adventures, delicious food, and a rich culture with friendly locals. Highlights include summiting Yapahuwa Rock, exploring expansive ancient cities and ruins, discovering montane rainforests, camping in forests, cycling through lush green tea plantations, rafting on white waters, immersing in local cultures, and relaxing with a cold beer on sandy southern beaches after spotting blue whales. All this while staying at the finest hotels and resorts on the island. Enjoy these world-class experiences without the world-class cost, with the added benefit of local expert knowledge and on-the-ground guidance to ensure the best of Sri Lanka is experienced.

• Family of two - All family groupings of two will be put into a Standard Double Room. Family of three - Wherever possible we will put you in a triple room. Please be aware that in a handful of places triple rooms are in short supply. This means that, Where it is impossible to provide a triple room, you will have to decide which of your party takes the single room. Family of four or more - You will most likely to stay in two Double rooms. If and wherever possible we will try our best to put you in a quadruple room. Whilst we will do our very best to ensure that families are roomed close together (in some cases, we can arrange adjoining rooms), we can’t guarantee this. While all other members have to be occupied in double rooms, means two pax per one double Room. And you need to come prepared for this. Hotel (14 nights), Camping (1 night)

If you cancel at least 6 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.
If you cancel between 2 and 6 day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a 50% refund.
If you cancel within 2 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.