Meet elephants at Pinnawala Orphanage, climb Sigiriya Rock, explore ancient temples, and witness Kandy’s Sacred Tooth Relic. Enjoy a diverse mix of history, culture, and nature on this 10-day adventure.
Day 1 – Airport – Dambulla
Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, proceed through immigration and customs to meet your guide. Begin your journey towards Dambulla or Habarana. En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, home to the world’s largest herd of captive elephants. Continue your journey and visit the iconic Dambulla Cave Temple, renowned for its well-preserved Buddhist mural paintings and statues.
Day 2 – DAMBULLA – SIGIRIYA
Begin your day early with a climb to the top of the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reaching the summit at sunrise offers a truly magical experience. Around midday, head out for a unique village experience near Sigiriya, traveling by bullock cart and traditional canoe through the countryside. In the evening, opt for an adventurous hike up Pidurangala Rock or a jeep safari to either Minneriya or Hurulu Eco National Park.
Day 3 – DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY
Depart for Kandy with several enriching cultural stops along the way. Begin with a visit to Nalanda Gedige, a fascinating ancient stone temple. Next, stop at a Spice Garden in Matale to learn about traditional cultivation and processing methods. Continue your journey with a visit to the Aluviharaya Rock Cave Temple and conclude your cultural tour with a stop at the Sri Muthumariamman Hindu Temple.
Day 4 – KANDY
Begin your day with a visit to the Gem Museum and Wood Carving Centre. Next, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa). Enjoy a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake and head to the expansive Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. In the evening, experience a lively Kandyan cultural dance show featuring traditional dance, drumming, and vibrant costumes.
Day 5 – KANDY – KITHULGALA – NUWARA ELIYA
Begin your scenic journey toward Kitulgala, a small town nestled on the banks of the Kelani River known as the adventure capital of Sri Lanka and a paradise for bird watchers. Continue your journey uphill to the charming hill station of Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as Little England due to its colonial-era buildings and picturesque landscapes.
Day 6 – NUWARA ELIYA – ELLA
Begin your day with a visit to the Seetha Amman Temple, a sacred Hindu temple surrounded by dense forest. Afterwards, you have the option to experience a scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella, winding through lush tea plantations and charming rural villages. In the evening, take some time to explore Ella town.
Day 7 – Ella – Yala
Begin your day early with a sunrise hike to Little Adam’s Peak, rewarding you with panoramic views of the misty Ella Valley. Head out to visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, surrounded by lush greenery. Begin your journey south toward Yala, passing through beautiful hill country and stopping at the famous Ravana Falls for a brief photo opportunity.
Day 8 – Yala – Galle / Hikkaduwa
Start your day with an early morning jeep safari at Yala National Park, renowned for its high density of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife. Later in the morning, begin your journey along the southern coastline toward Galle or Hikkaduwa. Make a photo stop at the stilt fishermen, then explore the historic Galle Fort and its charming colonial-era streets.
Day 9 – HIKKADUWA / GALLE – COLOMBO
Begin your journey along the coast to Colombo. Enjoy a tranquil Madu River boat safari through a rich mangrove ecosystem, and continue to a turtle hatchery. Take an optional stop in Bentota for thrilling water sports. Upon arrival in Colombo, head out for a quick city tour covering key highlights like the Old Parliament Building, Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque, Independence Square, and Galle Face Green.
Day 10 – COLOMBO – AIRPORT
You will be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport to connect with your departure flight.