Day 1: Arrive Colombo
Arrive in Colombo and be transferred to your hotel, before meeting your fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner. Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is a vibrant and diverse metropolis situated on the west coast of the island nation. It's not only the commercial hub but also a cultural melting pot, reflecting the rich history and influences of various civilisations.
Enhance your Journey - VIP Meet and Greet and Fast Track at Colombo Airport
Enjoy a hassle free arrival at Colombo airport with a VIP meet and greet and fast track assistance through immigration and customs (additional expense).
Day 2: Colombo, Habarana
Head towards the Cultural Triangle. En route, enjoy an authentic insider experience at a Buddhist monastery before visiting the iconic World Heritage-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The ancient fortress boasts stunning frescoes, intricate water gardens, and a palace complex, all perched atop a towering granite column. Renowned for its historical significance and breathtaking views, Sigiriya is a must-visit destination for travellers seeking to explore the rich cultural heritage of the island. Arrive at your accommodation and refresh before a memorable dinner with your fellow travellers.
Insider Experience - Monastery Retreat Experience
This unique experience takes you inland from the small town of Melsiripura in the North Central part of the island where over 55 acres of thick wilderness have been gradually transformed into a self-sustained model village within an environmentally friendly Monastic Retreat. As the Ashramaya is home to approximately 15 resident Bhikkus and Bhikkunis, you get the unique opportunity to follow their daily rituals. You may opt to start off your day by taking part in a short introductory discussion on Dhamma (teachings of Buddhism), or a relaxing Buddhist meditation session, followed by a delicious lunch.
Day 3: Habarana, Anuradhapura
This morning, explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura by tuk tuk, offering a thrilling journey through millennia-old ruins, including towering stupas, ancient monasteries, and sacred Bodhi trees, providing a convenient and immersive way to discover the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka's first capital. This evening, a cultural show in Habarana offers a vibrant display of traditional Sri Lankan music, dance, and folklore, captivating audiences with rhythmic drumming, colourful costumes, and mesmerising performances providing a delightful insight into the island nation's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
Day 4: Habarana, Minneriya National Park
Today, enjoy your Insider Experience — a journey into traditional Sri Lankan cuisine, before embarking on a game drive in Minneriya National Park. Immerse yourself in the surrounding flora and fauna, and be awestruck as you witness majestic elephants in their natural habitat — an unforgettable wildlife experience.
Insider Experience - Sri Lankan Cuisine Cooking Demonstration
The Sri Lankan Cuisine Cooking Demonstration provides an immersive culinary experience, where you’ll learn how to prepare traditional dishes, guided by an local chef who shares their secrets and techniques, offering a delightful journey into the flavours and aromas of Sri Lanka's diverse gastronomic heritage.
Day 5: Habarana, Matale, Kandy
Bid farewell to the Cultural Triangle as you journey towards the captivating city of Kandy, where ancient traditions and modern life converge amid scenic landscapes, bustling markets, the serene beauty of the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, where your insider experience promises a memorable continuation of your Sri Lankan adventure.
Insider Experience - Royal Botanical Gardens with local Botanist Storyteller
At the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, enjoy a guided tour led by a knowledgeable botanist storyteller, who will enchant you with fascinating tales of the garden's diverse plant species, rich history, and botanical wonders, offering an immersive and educational journey through this lush oasis of tranquility.
Day 6: Kandy
Begin your day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy, immersing yourself in the spiritual ambience and rich history of this revered site. In the afternoon, go on a guided tour of the Suriyakantha Centre for Art and Culture, where you'll discover an array of captivating art and cultural exhibits, complemented by a delightful lunch, promising a day filled with cultural enrichment and culinary treats.
Day 7: Kandy, Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy an enlightening experience before continuing your journey through the heart of Sri Lanka to Nuwara Eliya, where you'll have the opportunity to visit a tea estate and participate in a hands-on tea experience. Immerse yourself in the fascinating process of tea production while enjoying the picturesque beauty of the surrounding highlands.
Insider Experience - Meet With Local Traditional Artists
Meet a local traditional artist whose family has closely engaged in local art and traditions for generations. They will discuss the 33 traditional drums of Sri Lanka, focusing on the 10 most popular drums still in use today. You'll also learn about traditional style of dance distinctive to Kandy and the intricate jewels that adorn the dancers during a performance.
Day 8: Nuwara Eliya
You have the option to enjoy the day at leisure or choose from one of the optional activities offered.
Enhance your Journey - Historical Art and Architectural Walking Tour
Embark on a captivating Historical Art and Architectural Walking Tour of Nuwara Eliya, exploring its rich heritage and stunning architecture, while learning about its fascinating history and cultural significance.
Enhance your Journey - High tea at the Grand Hotel
Indulge in a luxurious high tea experience at the iconic Grand Hotel, savouring exquisite teas and delectable treats amid elegant surroundings, promising a delightful taste of colonial-era elegance in the heart of Sri Lanka's scenic highlands.
Enhance your Journey - Walk the Horton Plains
Hike the beauty of Horton Plains, an eight-kilometre route taking approximately three hours, where you'll discover the stunning beauty of the landscape including spectacular waterfalls.
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya, Bandarawela to Demodara, Udawalawe
Today, bid farewell to the stunning landscapes of Nuwara Eliya and embark on the Scenic Train Ride (subject to availability) from Bandarawela to Demodara. Revel in the breathtaking views of rolling hills, lush tea plantations and misty valleys as the train winds its way through the picturesque countryside. Make a stop to visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, marvelling at its architectural beauty and capturing unforgettable moments amid the scenic surroundings before reaching Udawalawe.
Day 10: Udawalawe
Immerse yourself in the heartwarming experience of visiting the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home during feeding time, witnessing the care and rehabilitation of orphaned elephants in their natural habitat. Later in the afternoon, embark on a captivating village walk, where you'll meet the local community, interact with villagers, and gain an insight into their way of life, creating meaningful connections and unforgettable memories amid the serene surroundings of rural Sri Lanka.
Day 11: Udawalawe, Galle, Bentota
As you journey towards your final destination of Bentota, take a delightful detour to uncover the beauty of Galle. Wander through the charming streets of this historic coastal city, where colonial architecture mingles with vibrant local culture. Explore the iconic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and immerse yourself in its rich history. Indulge in the flavours of fresh seafood at the bustling markets or relax on the picturesque beaches.
Insider Experience - Cinnamon Tapping
Embark on a unique Cinnamon Tapping Experience in Galle, where you'll join a local expert to learn about the traditional art of harvesting cinnamon. Delve into the intricacies of cinnamon cultivation, from selecting the right trees to extracting the prized bark, all while immersing yourself in the rich history and cultural significance of this beloved spice. This experience promises to deepen your appreciation for Sri Lanka's culinary heritage and its connection to the land.
Day 12: Bentota
Enjoy the coastal charm of Bentota at your leisure. Spend your day relaxing on soft sands, soaking up the sun, and taking refreshing dips in the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Alternatively choose to visit the infamous Lunuganga Estate (additional expense).
Enjoy a farewell dinner tonight, sharing stories of your travels with your new-found friends and raising a glass to your holiday uncovering the stunning beauty of this teardrop island.
Enhance your Journey - Visit to Lunuganga Estate
Enjoy a guided Visit to Lunuganga Estate, a private residence/Estate of renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa (additional expense).
Day 13: Bentota, Depart Colombo
Say farewell to the delights of Sri Lanka and unwind during your transfer back to the airport. If you're tempted to prolong your journey, consider extending to the blue waters of the Maldives for a three-night all inclusive stay.
