Sri Lanka Adventure

Welcome to Sri Lanka!

You will be greeted upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. You’ll then have the evening to explore the local area and find a beautiful local restaurant for dinner.

Accommodation:  Sea Horse Hotel & Spa or similar

After an early morning breakfast we’ll head out to get a feel for the local way of life and culture. A trip to the coastal town of Negombo is not complete without a visit to its fish market. The early morning chaos and energy as the boats come to land with their daily catch is a unique sight to see. Huge amounts of fresh fish and seafood fill the floor – squid, barracuda, giant tuna, prawns, lobsters – and silvery piles of mackerel are laid out to dry, sparkling in the sun. Although it’s a smelly sight, it’s definitely not one to be missed.

You will be transferred from the coastal city of Negombo into the central highlands, where you will arrive in one of Sri Lanka’s more beautiful cities, Kandy – the capital city of Si Lanka’s Central province. Upon arrival you’ll have time to get out and explore the local region and find somewhere for a group dinner.

Accommodation: Thilanka Hotel or similar

After breakfast at our hotel, we’ll be exploring the Sigiriya Rock Fortress which will provide a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s history. Ascending the ancient rock citadel unveils breathtaking frescoes, intricate water gardens, and panoramic vistas, offering a glimpse into the architectural marvels of a bygone era.

Next we visit Dambulla Cave Temple which has been inhabited since the 1st Century this largest cave complex is the best-preserved cave in Sri Lanka. There are nearly 80 recorded caves in this complex but the main attractions are in 5 caves where ancient paintings of Lord Buddha’s life are artistically painted.

And today’s final adventure will be visiting the Matale Spice Garden. Sri Lanka, formerly Taprobane, gained global recognition for its quality spices, fostering trade links with Greeks, Romans, and Arabs in ancient times. In the 16th century, Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences shaped the island’s culinary heritage, infusing it with a rich history of spiced cuisine. Today, Sri Lanka’s cuisine relies heavily on spices, integral to both its culinary and Ayurvedic traditions. Visiting spice gardens offers insights into diverse ingredients, including cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, cardamom, and black pepper, with options for natural products and medicinal concoctions. This history has led to Sri Lanka being known as the “Island of Spices.”

Accommodation: Thilanka Hotel or similar

Embark on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders. Begin your day at Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a lush paradise showcasing exotic flora. Stroll through fragrant orchid alleys and admire towering royal palms.

Next, venture to Kandy to explore the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, home to a sacred relic of Lord Buddha. Witness mesmerizing rituals and immerse yourself in the spiritual heart of Kandy. A day of cultural enrichment awaits.

Accommodation: Thilanka Hotel or similar

Today we take a scenic train journey from Kandy to Haputale.

This train ride from Kandy to Haputale is an unforgettable experience. Right from the moment you step onto the charming platform, at a station which wouldn’t have looked out of place on the set of the Railway Children, to the moment you arrive at the picturesque mountain town of Haputale. This is one trip that is as much about the journey as the destination.

You depart from Kandy at an elevation of 500m above sea level and gradually begin to climb deep into Sri Lanka’s tea-growing Hill Country, initially winding through woodland, crossing bridges and passing villages. As the train ascends higher still, rows of fuzzy tea plants begin to take over the landscape and you can spot tea-pickers moving between the bushes with large sacks of tea on their backs. As the train approaches its summit, the tea plantations are left behind and the scenery is taken over by mountain peaks and forest – occasionally the views give way to spectacular panoramas of deep ravines and valleys. The train passes the highest station on this route, Pattipola, which is situated 1898m above sea level.

You arrive at Haputale, perched on a mountain ridge,  approximately 6 and a half hours later after a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s own beautiful dreamscape.

Accommodation: Orient Hotel or similar

Adventure awaits, today we head out for a guided trek of Ella Rock and to visit the famous 9 Arch Bridge in Demodara.

Ella, a gem in Sri Lanka’s tea country, offers a serene escape. It’s a simple town serving as a gateway to the lush tea-covered hills. The highlight is the challenging trek up Ella Rock, starting from Bandarawela. This 2-hour hike winds through forests, tea plantations, and eventually ascends the steep climb. The reward at the summit is a breathtaking panoramic view of green valleys and distant mountains, creating a surreal and timeless experience.

Accommodation: Orient Hotel or similar

After a beautiful breakfast at our hotel, we’ll be transferred to Yala National Park.

We’ll then embark on an afternoon safari adventure in Yala National Park, a wildlife haven in Sri Lanka. The park boasts diverse ecosystems, home to 44 mammal species, including Asian Elephants, Leopards, Sloth Bears, and the endangered Fishing Cat. Yala is rich in reptile, amphibian, and bird species, with six endemics. However, its claim to fame lies in its high leopard density, making it one of the world’s prime destinations for leopard enthusiasts. Witness the untamed wonders of this remarkable sanctuary.

Accommodation: Elephant Reach Hotel or similar

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at our hotel in Yala, fueling up for the adventures ahead. Afterward, we’ll arrange a comfortable transfer to the enchanting city of Galle. Explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its charming cobblestone streets and colonial architecture. Delve into the local culture and history.

In the afternoon, we’ll take you to the serene shores of Unawatuna. Relax and unwind on the golden sandy beach, bask in the sun, or swim in the turquoise waters. It’s the perfect way to rejuvenate after your explorations. Your day will blend culture, history, and relaxation.

Accommodation: Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel or similar

Take a well-deserved rest day at Unawatuna Beach, where the world fades away in the gentle lull of the waves. Lounge on soft sands, soak in the sun, or swim in the clear, azure waters. Unwind in the peaceful ambiance, savoring the tranquility of this tropical paradise.

Accommodation: Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel or similar

Today we travel from Unawatuna and to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Upon arrival, the group will have a day at leisure to immerse themselves in the city’s dynamic atmosphere. Stroll through bustling markets, savor delectable street food, and absorb the local culture. Explore the city’s historical and modern facets, a day of urban adventure filled with authentic experiences.

Accommodation: Fairway Colombo or similar

On the final day of our Sri Lanka adventure, we reflect on the incredible journey we’ve undertaken. From exploring historic sites like ancient temples and lush forests to savoring diverse culinary delights and connecting with welcoming locals, it’s been a rich tapestry of experiences. We’ve woven new friendships and lasting memories, the threads of which will forever bind us to this captivating land of history, culture, and unparalleled beauty. As we bid farewell, our hearts are full, and our spirits are forever enriched by the magic of Sri Lanka, with the option of a free transfer to Colombo airport for your convenience.