Sri Lanka Explorer

After breakfast, head north to the sacred city of Anuradhapura, the first royal capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Highlights:

• Explore the massive Ruwanweliseya Dagoba

• Visit the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – the oldest documented tree in the world

• Walk among ancient ruins at Abhayagiri Monastery

• End the day with a sunset view from Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Anuradhapura

Depart for Sigiriya after breakfast. In the afternoon, enjoy an immersive local village tour followed by a scenic nature experience.

Highlights:

• Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century

• Visit a traditional village by bullock cart, cross a lake in a canoe, and enjoy a home-cooked lunch

• Optional: Sunset view from Pidurangala Rock

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Sigiriya or Dambulla

Begin your day by exploring the cave temple complex in Dambulla before heading south to Kandy.

Highlights:

• Visit the spectacular Dambulla Cave Temple, home to over 150 Buddha statues

• Stop at a spice garden in Matale and learn about Ayurvedic herbs

• Reach Kandy, the cultural capital, and visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic

• Enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance show in the evening

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Kandy

Leave for the scenic highlands through lush tea plantations and misty mountains.

Highlights:

• Visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden (optional)

• Stop at Ramboda Falls

• Tour a tea factory and enjoy a cup of world-famous Ceylon Tea

• Explore Gregory Lake, colonial architecture, and local markets in Nuwara Eliya

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Nuwara Eliya

Take a scenic drive to Ella, stopping to admire waterfalls and viewpoints.

Highlights:

• Stop at Ravana Falls

• Visit the Nine Arch Bridge (optional)

• Continue to Udawalawe

• Rest in preparation for your wildlife safari the next day

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Udawalawe

Early morning, head out for an unforgettable wildlife experience at Udawalawe National Park.

Highlights:

• Enjoy a thrilling Jeep Safari to spot wild elephants, buffaloes, crocodiles, and exotic birds

• Visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home (optional)

• Transfer to the beachside paradise of Mirissa

• Relax by the sea or enjoy fresh seafood in the evening

Overnight Stay: Hotel in Mirissa

Your final day begins with a relaxed morning or optional activities in Mirissa, followed by a coastal ride back toward Colombo.

Highlights:

• Visit Coconut Tree Hill, a famous photo spot

• Stop by a turtle hatchery en route

• Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, full of colonial charm and boutique cafés

• Drop-off at Colombo city or Bandaranaike International Airport for departure