Duration | Destination | Departure | Catalog |
---|---|---|---|
14 days and 13 nights | Sri Lanka (Negombo, Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Welimada, Kithulgala, Mirissa) | Sri Lanka (Colombo) |
Day 1:
Airport Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
On arrival at the main terminal, you will be greeted by our chauffeur guide and accompanied to the awaiting vehicle in order to transfer to your hotel in Negombo. (Approximately 20 minutes ‘drive)
Dubbed Sri Lanka’s ‘Little Rome’, this beach town located just a few kilometers away from the Bandaranaike International Airport is full of surprises for wanderlusts. The diverse array of restaurants, pubs and accommodation choices this metropolis offer is a perfect reflection of this beach-town’s exultant vibe. It is also a historically interesting location owing to the strains of Dutch-influenced architecture that remain intact in the town’s landscape, not to mention the ancient Dutch Fort as well as several churches constructed during the Dutch Colonial era that are thronged by pilgrims daily.
Overnight Stay in Negombo
Day 2:
Sigiriya - Habarana - Sigiriya (Approximately 3 ½ hours’ drive)
After breakfast leave for Sigiriya arrive and check-in at the hotel. In the afternoon, feel free to enjoy a village safari in Hiriwaduna village with lunch.
Make a visit to a village in Sri Lanka. Make a cart ride through the village, rice fields. Later make a short walk ( about 15 minutes) to the tank, to make a boat ride of about 20 minutes.
Thereafter, return to the hotel.
Overnight Stay in Sigiriya.
Day 3:
Sigiriya - Ritigala - Pidurangala - Sigiriya
Early morning, Collect the packed Breakfast from the hotel and leave for Ritigala. (Approximately 40 Minute’s drives’ drive)
Located in the Anuradhapura district, deep within the thickness of the Ritigala Nature Reserve is the extensive, monastic Ritigala cave complex. The site comprises some 70 caves, the ruins of the monastery lie atop the 766m hill that beholds a scenic view of the dry terrains that surround it. The architecture and the cave complex itself bear a certain mysterious nature owing to the long meditational pathways that open into the thick jungle and large stone-lined reservoirs. According to legends revolved around the origins of these mysterious caves, Hanuman (the monkey King of Ramayana – an Indian narrative) leaped to India to inform Prince Rama of Princess Sita’s whereabouts, from Ritigala. The reserve surrounding the caves is home to wild elephants, bears and leopards; the site was abandoned until it was rediscovered by British explorers in the 19th century.
On Completion, climb up the Pidurangala Rock.
Pidurangala - This rock has a much more natural feel, despite also housing a Buddhist temple. Pidurangala Rock is adjacent to Sigiriya Rock and is the best viewing spot of Sigiriya Rock as it is only slightly lower. Pidurangala is a popular spot for sunrise as you can enjoy 360-degree views of not only the valleys but also Sigiriya Rock. It is believed that the history of the temple at Pidurangala goes back beyond to the first and second century BC. From those days Pidurangala was used as a Buddhist monastery and but became a prominent place during the reign of King Kashyapa (473 – 495 AC). According to ancient chronicles, Prince Kashyapa had killed his father King Dhatusena and fled to Sigiriya to find out a more secure place to prevent retaliation attacks from his half-brother, Mugalan. With the arrival of King Kashyapa, the Bhikkus who meditated there were requested to move to the nearby Pidurangala. As compensation, King Kashyapa refurbished the temple and made it a prominent place.
On completion, Transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight Stay in Sigiriya.
Day 4:
Sigiriya - Riverton Hike - Knuckles
Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to Riverston and Hiking Riverston Peak. (Approximately 02 Hours and 45 Minutes’ drive)
Located approximately 30 km from the Matale town, when traveling on Matale – Girandurukotte road, rather windy with quite a few hairpins turns but in good condition, offers great views all around with a mini worlds end, lot less traveled by mainstream tourists. Climatic conditions here are very similar to Horton plains with the addition of having two great waterfalls “Sera Ella” and “Bambarakiri Ella”, both of which are a site for sore eyes, don’t forget to relax on the rock seats of “Sera Ella” relishing the cold misty spray of water on your face and Thelgamu Oya offers a great site for a dip in crystal clear but chilly water.
Traveling further upstream on this very scenic stream will no doubt will make you feel refreshed and rejuvenated. We recommend that you plan a trekking trip (02.5km) to the mist-clad Riverston peak via Pittaway pathana, as it offers some of the greatest views of the central hills across the mini world's end which end in a sheer drop of 300 meters offering a great vista especially of the “Knuckles range”, and the thelgamu valley below with its terraced paddy field method unique to the central hills of Sri Lanka
On completion, transfer to the hotel and check-in at the hotel in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Overnight Stay in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Day 5:
Knuckles Trek
After breakfast transfer to Kandy via spice garden. (Approximately 2 hours’ drive)
The Knuckles mountain or “Dumbara” range in Sinhala, is situated between the districts of Kandy & Matale in the central hills. As the name suggests the range has a distinct resemblance to a clenched fist. Unique in its location and running at right angles to the range that runs from Laggala & Urugala, is one of the bio-diversity hot spots, a water catchment, and a wildlife reserve.
A cycle ride through the Dumbara valley with Hulu, Heen & Kalu Rivers which springs to life from this range, as the backdrop. Visit the oldest recorded medieval village of Sri Lanka first mentioned by “Robert Knox”, Meemure. Cycling through the area you will be afforded many waterfalls and creeks in which you could dip and refresh yourself while the guide arranges a picnic lunch for you or continue on to your destination hotel for a splendid meal under the burning blue or cold misty skies depending on the mood of the weather gods.
On completion transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight Stay in the Knuckles Mountain Range.
Day 6:
Knuckles - Kandy
After breakfast drive to Kandy and check-in at the hotel. (Approximately 01 Hour and 45 minutes’ drive)
Often referred to as the hill capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy offers a diverse variety of experiences to its visitors ranging from history, culture and simple scenic beauty coupled with a touch of urbanity. It was the last Sinhalese Kingdom that fell under British rule in 1815. The journey to this mellow weathered city can be quite enjoyable, particularly by train owing to the scenic delights that lie alongside. The city’s colonial architecture has been preserved well even in the backdrop of rapid urbanization. Close to the city’s center is the prime landmark - Sri Dalada Maligawa that houses the sacred tooth relic of Buddha. Apart from the ancient monuments of the Kandyan era, the delightful jumble of antique shops and the bustling market in the city also make up for interesting places to visit.
The rest of the day spend at leisure.
Overnight Stay in Kandy.
Day 7:
Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast proceeds to Nanu Oya by train. (Seats subject to availability) (Approximately 3 ½ hours’ to Nanu Oya by Train)
Arrive at Nany Oya and meet the guide. Then travel to Nuwara Eliya and check-in at the hotel.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 8:
Nuwara Eliya - Horton Plains - Nuwara Eliya. (Approximately 1 ½ hours’ drive)
Early morning excursion to Horton Plains National park for trekking expedition with a packed breakfast.
Horton Plains - ’World’s End” and the beautiful bridal veil ‘Bakers Falls’ Sri Lanka's highest plateau 7200 ft above sea level in the central mountain country. This ‘Fen” is a very scenic region with an astounding variety of scenery from mountains to grasslands, from marshes to trout streams. Sri Lanka's best-flavored high-grown teas are grown in the surrounding areas. Spectacular view from 'Worlds End' where the plateau plunges a thousand feet in a straight sheer drop.
Thereafter Sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya City and Bicycle Ride around Gregory Lake. Return to hotel and relax.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 9:
Nuwara Eliya - Ella - Nuwara Eliya. (Approximately 2½ hours’ drive)
Breakfast in hotel and leave for Ella
Ella, which literally translates into ‘waterfall’ is a name fit for this little town located in a hilly nook, owing to its stunning vistas richly adorned with cascades that trickle-down its rugged terrains. Located some 225km away from Colombo, Ella offers some of the most scenic sights available in Sri Lanka. It is perfect for those who enjoy nature and outdoor fun as it offers ample opportunities for trekking expeditions. The unparalleled beauty of the vistas in Ella includes the Ella gap where one can enjoy the sights of the grand stone bridge that stands tall, with nine archways. The walk leading to the Ella gap falls through a railway and is definitely a factor that would add to the excitement of the little trek.
Experience the Zip Line in Ella.
The 9 Arch Bridge was built at Gotuwala between the Ella and Demodara stations during the British Colonial period. Locally it is known as ‘Ahas Namaye Palama’ meaning nine skies bridge in Sinhala. The name derives from the visual experience. When you stand below the bridge and look up you can see the sky through the nine arches. The unique part about this bridge is that it is built entirely from rocks, bricks, and cement with no use of steel or metals throughout the structure. The bridge was commissioned in 1941 and the story goes that as the bridge was being planned World War I broke out. The steel and metal materials destined to be used in the bridge were reassigned to be used for military purposes. The materials were then gathered in the form of rocks, bricks, and cement to make sure the bridge construction still went ahead.
Then Climb Ella Rock.
Ella Rock is a famous cliff, located high above Ella's village, roughly a two hours strenuous trek from the center of town. The rock offers stunning views across the hill country and the plains below. The trek to Ella Rock is about 8 km long and is quite easy if you follow the track.
On completion transfer back to the hotel. Participating in Guided Tea walk within the hotel premises.
Dinner and Overnight Stay in Welimada.
Day 10:
Welimada - Kithulgala - Mirissa
After Breakfast drive to Mirissa and en-route experience the White water rafting and Canyoning. (Approximately 3 hours’ drive to Kithulgala)
Kitulgala White Water Rafting. The Kelani River is safe except for some shallow parts in the opposite bank, it's a very secluded place to enjoy swimming and water sports like rafting. People enjoy picnics beside the lake and are often seen indulging in their favorite water sports. Wild and harmless fishes swim about the lake; all in all, it provides a natural get-away for people finding peace.
On completion, Transfer to Mirissa and check-in at the hotel. (Approximately 4½ hours’ drive)
Overnight Stay in Mirissa.
Day 11:
Mirissa - Kanneliya Forest Trek (Approximately 1 ½ hours’ drive)
After breakfast leave for Kanneliya.
The Kanneliya rainforest is Sri Lanka’s lesser-known forest reserve, with two of the island’s main rivers running through it and a diverse range of wildlife living within its thick canopy. Neatly tucked away just 35km away from Galle, the forest reserve also houses around 78 villages. The wildlife tracker who will guide you in Kanneliya is from one of these forest reserve villages and has spent his entire life living within the reserve. The scenery in the area is straight out of the Jungle Book and the opportunity to be out in nature makes this a fantastic experience for children and families. (Water and Lunch provided)
This experience is ideal for nature lovers and those looking to discover more about Sri Lanka’s abundance of flora and fauna. With experienced local guides, you will learn about the different trees, plants, birds and reptiles that live in the forest, including many endemic species such as the green vine snake, the spotted thrush and the kangaroo lizard. Depending on how energetic you are feeling, you have a choice of a 4km/2 hour walk or a 14km/6 hour walk.
On Completion, Transfer back to the hotel.
Overnight Stay in Mirissa.
Day 12:
Mirissa
After breakfast. Spend the day at leisure. The vehicle will not be at the client’s disposal.
Overnight Stay in Mirissa.
Day 13:
Mirissa Airport (Approximately 3 hours’ drive) - End of Service
Breakfast in the hotel. According to your flight time check out from the hotel and leave to the airport
Package Includes
- 13 night’s accommodation in a double room at the hotels mentioned above or Similar
- Meals as specified above (BB)
- Wild Glamping Knuckles & Araliya Green Hills on (HB)
- Entrance fees to all places specified in the itinerary above
- Transport by air-conditioned vehicle with an English- speaking chauffeur Guide
- All applicable taxes
Additional meals
- Compulsory Supplements
- Early Check-in & Late checkout
- Expenses of personal nature such as laundry, mini bar charges, beverages, liquor, telephone charges, etc.
- Mineral water, soft drinks & alcoholic beverages
- Camera permits
- Tips & porterage
- Anything not mentioned under “Package Includes”
Day | Overnight | Itinerary highlights |
---|---|---|
1 | Arie Lagoon - Deluxe Room or similarNegombo | Colombo - Departure from Colombo |
2 | Arie Lagoon - Deluxe Room or similarNegombo | Habarana |
3 | Arie Lagoon - Deluxe Room or similarNegombo | |
4 | The Radh Hotel or similarKandy | |
5 | The Radh Hotel or similarKandy | |
6 | The Radh Hotel or similarKandy | |
7 | Araliya Green Hills -Deluxe Room or similarNuwara Eliya | |
8 | Araliya Green Hills -Deluxe Room or similarNuwara Eliya | |
9 | Unrated or similarWelimada | Ella |
10 | Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and Spa - Palm Double Room or similarMirissa | Kitulgala |
11 | Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and Spa - Palm Double Room or similarMirissa | |
12 | Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and Spa - Palm Double Room or similarMirissa | |
13 | UnratedMirissa | |
14 | Colombo |
Place | Hotels |
---|---|
Negombo | Arie Lagoon - Deluxe Room or similar |
Kandy | The Radh Hotel or similar |
Nuwara Eliya | Araliya Green Hills -Deluxe Room or similar |
Welimada | Unrated |
Mirissa | Sri Sharavi Beach Villas and Spa - Palm Double Room or similar / Unrated |