Day 1: Arrival & The Fishing Hub of Negombo
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Route: Airport to Negombo
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Activities: Arrival, Negombo town exploration, Fishing village visit
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Overnight: Negombo
Arrive at Colombo International Airport and meet your Explore Lanka Travels representative. Transfer to the coastal town of Negombo, a famous fishing hub on the West Coast. The city is lively, with a variety of restaurants, shops, and pubs. Spend your afternoon visiting the local fishing village to witness the thousands of traditional fishermen who operate here daily. Observe the indigenous technologies used to dry and preserve the excess catch—the distinct, salty aroma is a hallmark of this authentic local experience.
Day 2: The Ancient Civilization
Travel to Anuradhapura, the first capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage city. Once a wealthy monastic center, this “lost city” was rediscovered by British explorers in the 19th century. Visit historic sites including the Sacred Bo-tree (Sri Maha Bodhi), one of the oldest historically documented trees in the world, and the Ruwanweliseya, a magnificent stupa built in the 2nd century B.C. Visit the Brazen Palace, the Samadhi Statue, and the beautiful rock carvings of Isurumuniya. Later, transfer to Mihintale, the mountain peak where Buddhism was first introduced to Sri Lanka.
Day 3: Wildlife Safaris
Transfer to Habarana after breakfast. In the evening, embark on a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park. The park covers over 8,800 hectares and is home to a vast array of wildlife, including 160 species of birds, reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies. It is an ideal location for elephant and leopard watching.
Day 4: Royal Ruins of Polonnaruwa
After breakfast, depart for Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka (1017 A.D. to 1235 A.D.). Explore the ruins of the Royal Palace of King Parakramabahu, the Audience Hall, and the elegant 12th-century Lotus Pond. Visit the Gal Viharaya, which features four magnificent carved Buddha statues, the Kiri Vehera (remains of the former Temple of the Tooth), and the ancient Shiva Temple.
Day 5: Spices, Culture & The Hill Capital
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Route: Habarana to Matale, then Kandy
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Activities: Matale Spice Garden, Cookery demonstration, Transfer to Kandy
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Overnight: Kandy
Depart for the Matale area. Visit a traditional spice garden to see how various spices are grown and processed. Enjoy a cookery demonstration to learn about authentic Sri Lankan methods and the history of local cuisine. Continue your journey to Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhala Kings, surrounded by magnificent hills.
Day 6: Explore Kandy
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Route: Kandy Sightseeing
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Activities: Gem museum, Silk garden, Wood carving center, Temple of the Tooth, Cultural Show
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Overnight: Kandy
Sri Lanka is world-renowned for its precious gems, especially the Blue Sapphire. Visit a gemological museum and a cutting factory to learn about the mining process. Next, visit a silk garden to see traditional handloom saree weaving—ladies will have the opportunity to try on a traditional saree to experience the local dressing culture. Spend the afternoon at a traditional wood carving center, where intricate statues and masks are crafted using ancient techniques. In the evening, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and witness a vibrant Cultural Show.
Day 7: Mist, Waterfalls & Ceylon Tea
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Route: Kandy to Ramboda, then Nuwara Eliya
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Activities: Ramboda Falls, Tea Plantation and Factory
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Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, transfer toward Ramboda to visit the famous Ramboda Falls—two prominent waterfalls cascading side-by-side. Afterward, visit a tea plantation and factory to witness the processing of world-famous Ceylon Tea and enjoy a hot cup of fresh tea. Proceed to the colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya, situated 6,182 feet above sea level.
Day 8: Little England
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Route: Nuwara Eliya Sightseeing
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Activities: Golf Club, Strawberry farms, Gregory Lake
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Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
Explore Nuwara Eliya, an old English-style town with charming bungalows and colonial architecture. Visit the 18-hole golf course, pick fresh strawberries at a local farm, or take a peaceful evening walk around Gregory Lake. Enjoy a boat ride or have a cup of tea at the beautiful clubhouse.
Day 9: Epic Landscapes & Holy Pilgrimage
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Route: Nuwara Eliya to Ella, then Kataragama
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Activities: Ella village, Ravana Falls, Kataragama Temple
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Overnight: Yala
Travel from Nuwara Eliya to the mountain village of Ella. Enjoy the cool climate and stunning views, and visit the Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in the country. Continue to Kataragama, a holy city for Buddhists, Hindus, and Muslims. Visit the Kataragama Devalaya and the historic Kiri Vehera Stupa before heading to your hotel in Yala.
Day 10: Safari in Yala
Start your morning with a jeep safari in Yala National Park, the second-largest and most visited park in Sri Lanka. It is a premier destination for spotting elephants, sloth bears, wild buffalo, and abundant birdlife. After the safari, transfer to the historic port city of Galle. Walk along the walls of the Dutch-built fort and watch the sunset over the ocean.
Day 11: Gemstones & Turtles
Visit Meetiyagoda, famous for its moonstone mines. Observe the mining and polishing process, and visit the gem museum. Continue to a local turtle hatchery to learn about the five varieties of sea turtles found in Sri Lanka. Afterward, transfer to the beach town of Hikkaduwa.
Day 12: Beach Break
Enjoy a full day of leisure in Hikkaduwa. Relax on the beach, engage in water sports, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment.
Day 13: The Vibrant Capital
Transfer to Colombo. Enjoy a city tour covering the commercial business center, colonial buildings, and high-rise hotels. Visit the Gangaramaya Temple, a vibrant complex on Beira Lake established over 120 years ago.
Day 14: Colombo Shopping & Nightlife
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Route: Colombo Sightseeing
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Activities: Shopping in Pettah, Modern malls, Casino (optional)
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Overnight: Colombo
Spend your final full day shopping in Colombo. Explore the modern malls for designer fashion and electronics, then experience the hustle and bustle of the Pettah market—a walkable maze of narrow streets where you can find anything from handicrafts to souvenirs (remember to bargain!). End your trip with an optional visit to a Colombo casino for music, entertainment, and a lavish buffet.
Day 15: Departure
Enjoy a final breakfast at your hotel in Colombo before being transferred to the airport for your flight home.
Tour Inclusions & Exclusions
| Inclusions |
Exclusions |
| Transport throughout the tour |
Entrance Fees to National Parks / Reserves |
| Bed & Breakfast meal plan |
Safari Jeep charges |
| Accommodation in Standard Rooms (Upgrades available upon request) |
Forest Guide fees |
