Ultimate Sri Lanka

Upon arrival at Katunayaka International Airport, your journey begins as you make your way to Colombo. Here, you'll embark on a captivating city tour, starting with a visit to the historic Fort and the bustling Pettah commercial district, nestled amid the colonial elegance of the oldest hotel, GOH. With picturesque views of the Colombo harbor, an iconic lighthouse with a clock tower (surpassing even London's Big Ben in age), and proximity to the president's house and old parliament, your exploration continues down the main street, passing attractions like the old Dutch Museum, belfry, and City Hall, home to puppets showcasing Sri Lanka's colonial governors. Your adventure also includes a stop at the Old Dutch Hospital, offering an array of shops and restaurants against the backdrop of Sri Lanka's twin tower buildings. As you journey onward, you'll discover the old race course, a maze of buildings adorned with colonial architecture. Don't forget to indulge in some retail therapy in Colombo, exploring shopping destinations like Laksala and Odel. Finally, you'll unwind for the night at a comfortable hotel in the heart of Colombo.

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast at the hotel, setting the stage for an exciting journey ahead. Your adventure takes you to Sigiriya, with a captivating stopover at Pinnawala. Here, you'll have the opportunity to visit the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary, nursery, and breeding haven for wild Asian elephants situated in the Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. Pinnawala is home to the world's largest assembly of captive elephants. Continuing your exploration, you'll marvel at the Dambulla Rock Temple, also known as the Golden Rock Temple, located north of Kandy and often regarded as the geographical heart of Sri Lanka. Finally, you'll retire for the night at a comfortable hotel in Sigiriya, where you can relax and rejuvenate for the adventures awaiting you.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an early morning journey to the iconic Sigiriya Rock. This ancient rock fortress and palace, masterfully crafted by King Kashyapa between 473 and 495, stands proudly, soaring 660 feet into the sky. Situated in the northern Matale district, near the town of Dambulla in Sri Lanka's central province, Sigiriya beckons with its historic grandeur. After your exploration of this remarkable site, you'll immerse yourself in the culture and natural beauty of Sri Lanka with a visit to the Hiriwaduna Village. As the day winds down, you'll find rest and comfort at a hotel in Kandy, where you can prepare for more adventures to come.

Begin your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel before setting out on a scenic journey to Kandy via Mathale. Along the way, you'll have the chance to explore the Mathale Spice Garden, a place where the rich tradition of spices unfolds. Sri Lanka's spices, cherished for centuries, have been valued not only for their culinary uses but also for their roles in medicine and cosmetics. Historical accounts reveal that civilizations such as the Greeks, Arabs, and Malays engaged in the vibrant spice trade with Sri Lanka. As the day draws to a close, you'll find accommodation for the night at a comfortable hotel in Kandy, preparing for more adventures ahead.

On the fifth day of your journey, you'll make your way to the enchanting city of Kandy. Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka's Central Highlands, Kandy boasts the illustrious Sri Dalada Maligawa, commonly known as the Temple of the Tooth, as its crown jewel. This sacred temple, an integral part of a historic palace complex, is located almost at the geographical center of the island. With a rich history spanning over three centuries, this venerable complex has borne witness to the rise and fall of numerous kings. Your exploration of Kandy also includes a visit to the captivating Peradeniya Botanical Garden. As the day winds down, you'll find comfort and accommodation at a hotel in Kandy, readying yourself for more intriguing experiences to come.

On the sixth day, your day kicks off with a hearty breakfast at the hotel. The adventure continues as you proceed to Nuwara Eliya, with an exciting stopover at Kitulgala. Here, you'll engage in the thrilling activity of White Water Rafting, a challenging yet exhilarating water sport. Contrary to common belief, White Water Rafting doesn't require exceptional physical strength, making it accessible to all. After your aquatic escapade, you'll have the evening to unwind and relax at your hotel. As night falls, you'll find comfort and rest at your overnight accommodation in Nuwara Eliya, preparing for more memorable experiences in this scenic destination.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at the hotel, followed by a leisurely period of relaxation in the refreshing cool climate of Nuwara Eliya. Your exploration of this charming city includes visits to Vicktoria Park, Gregary Lake, Haggala Botanical Garden, and the enchanting Vegetable Farms. Don't miss the opportunity to immerse yourself in a Tea Experience unique to Nuwara Eliya. As the day unfolds, you'll find comfort and accommodation at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya, where you can unwind and prepare for another day of adventures in this picturesque destination.

Experience the awe-inspiring wonders of Ella with a visit to Little Adams Peak, an epic hiking adventure in Sri Lanka. The ascent is accessible without a guide, thanks to a well-marked path and clear signposts guiding you up the mountain. Continue your exploration by marveling at the Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel commissioned under British rule in 1921, showcasing the brilliance of early 20th-century engineering. As the day unfolds, you'll find comfort and reprieve at a hotel in Ella, readying yourself for more captivating experiences in this enchanting destination.

Exploring the picturesque town of Ella would be inadequate without discovering the marvel of Ravana Falls. As one of Sri Lanka's widest waterfalls, this 82-ft cascading beauty is situated in the heart of the Ravana Ella Wildlife Sanctuary, just six kilometers from the Ella Railway Station. After immersing yourself in this natural wonder, your journey continues as you head towards Yala. The day concludes with a comfortable stay at a hotel in Yala, where you can rest and rejuvenate for more adventures in this captivating region.

On the 10th day, kickstart your morning with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an exhilarating Yala National Park Safari Tour. As dusk approached, the park came alive with animals on the move. Even after three hours of intense wildlife spotting, no one was eager to leave. We had the privilege of witnessing elephants, buffaloes, sloth bears, crocodiles, monkeys, bee-eaters, and crested serpent eagles. Our camera rolls were filled with snapshots of peacocks and adorable wild boar piglets. Reluctantly, we departed this wildlife haven and journeyed to Mirissa, where we settled in for the night at a comfortable hotel.

Embark on an unforgettable Mirissa Whale Watching tour, where you'll have the chance to witness the planet's largest creatures, including fin whales, sei whales, sperm whales, orcas (killer whales), pilot whales, humpback whales, along with dolphins, flying fish, turtles, manta rays, and even whale sharks. These remarkable marine encounters await just a few miles off the South Coast of Sri Lanka. Following this thrilling experience, your journey proceeds to Bentota, where you can unwind and enjoy the beautiful beach. As the day winds down, you'll find rest and comfort at a hotel in Bentota, preparing for more coastal adventures ahead.

On the 12th day of your journey, commence your morning with a delightful breakfast at the hotel. Your day unfolds with a serene Madu River Boat Safari, where you'll explore the vast and diverse ecosystem of the Madu River wetland, spanning 915 hectares. This unique habitat is nourished by seven tributaries, forming the heart of the wetland's intricate biodiversity. Continuing your exploration, you'll visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, dedicated to the conservation of these magnificent creatures. As night falls, you'll find comfort and reprieve at a hotel in Bentota, readying yourself for more coastal adventures in this beautiful destination.

On your final day, begin with a satisfying breakfast at the hotel, savoring the last moments of your journey. It's time to bid farewell to the captivating landscapes and warm hospitality of Sri Lanka as you proceed to the airport for your departure. Take with you cherished memories of this remarkable adventure, carrying the spirit of Sri Lanka in your heart as you journey onward.