Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is a sanctuary for orphaned and injured wild Asian elephants. It houses the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. Here, you can witness these majestic creatures up close as they feed and bathe in the shimmering waters of the Ma Oya River.
In the evening, visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, built by King Walagamba in the 1st century B.C. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to over 160 Buddha statues, including seated, standing, and reclining figures. The five main caves contain priceless murals depicting the life and times of Lord Buddha.
Later, climb the spectacular Sigiriya “Lion Rock” Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning. Built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD, Sigiriya is famous for its impressive frescoes, ancient graffiti, and an advanced underground water distribution system. The fortress offers breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle and countryside.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Activities:
✅ Climb Lion Rock
✅ Village Safari
✅ Tuk Tuk Safari
After breakfast, you will arrive in Kandy, the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka. Nestled in the central hills, Kandy is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the country’s second-largest city. Surrounded by tropical tea plantations, Kandy is an administrative, cultural, and religious hub.
Explore the lively market places, enjoy the scenic Upper Lake Drive, and visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to over 4,000 species of plants. Later, attend a traditional dance performance, showcasing cultural dances from different regions of Sri Lanka.
Visit Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth Relic), one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. This temple houses the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is a significant pilgrimage site.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
After breakfast, enjoy a Kandy city tour, including a visit to a bazaar and a gem lapidary, where you can witness how raw gems are mined, cut, and polished using traditional methods.
En route to Nuwara Eliya, stop at a tea factory, where you can follow the tea trails, learn about the tea-making process, and enjoy a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea.
On the way, visit the Ramboda Waterfall, one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic waterfalls. Then, stop at the Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple, believed to be the place where Lord Hanuman searched for Sita Devi. The temple features a 16-feet-tall statue of Lord Hanuman.
Continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya, located 1,893 meters above sea level. Known as “Little England,” this charming town was developed by the British in the 19th century.
Afternoon at leisure. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
In the morning, you will travel to Bentota, the heart of Sri Lanka’s water sports scene. The calm seas from November to April make it an ideal location for snorkeling, diving, sailing, windsurfing, water skiing, and deep-sea fishing.
Apart from these, Bentota also offers exciting activities like banana boat rides, body boat rides, tube rides, and canoeing.
Spend the evening at leisure by the beach.
Overnight stay in Bentota.
After breakfast, indulge in thrilling water sports activities or relax by the pristine beaches of Bentota.
Take a Madu River Safari, where you will explore the scenic mangrove forests and spot exotic wildlife along the riverbanks.
Later, visit a turtle hatchery, where you can see baby turtles and learn about conservation efforts to protect these endangered species.
Spend the evening at leisure in Bentota.
Overnight stay in Bentota.
Early in the morning, you will drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city. Located on the west coast, Colombo is a bustling metropolis blending colonial charm with modern architecture.
Enjoy a city tour, passing through the commercial district of Fort and the vibrant Pettah Market, known for its lively atmosphere and diverse shops.
Visit: Gangaramaya Temple
Hindu Temple
Jumma Mosque
Independence Square
International Conference Hall
Viharamahadevi Park
Pettah’s bustling bazaars
After the tour, you will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your unforgettable journey in Sri Lanka.
Leave a Reply