17 Day Winter Getaway
Embark on a captivating 17-day journey through Sri Lanka, blending exhilarating safaris in wetlands and national parks with serene beach resorts. Explore rich cultural sites, historic landmarks, lush botanical gardens, and scenic tea estates. Discover vibrant village life, sacred religious sites, invigorating hikes, and nature escapes in this unforgettable adventure.
Tour Highlights..
- Day 1: Arrival > Negombo
- Day 2: Muthurajawela Safari and City Tour
- Day 3: Anuradhapura UNESCO World Heitage Site
- Day 4: Traditional Village Tour and Minneriya National Park Safari
- Day 5: Sigiriya – UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Day 6: Dambulla Cave Temple and Temple of Tooth Relic – UNESCO World Heritage Sites
Day 1 : Arrival in Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka: Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by our friendly representative and transferred to your hotel in Negombo.
Relax and unwind: Spend the day at leisure, enjoying the coastal atmosphere and local charm of Negombo. Known for its beautiful beaches and vibrant fishing community, Negombo offers a perfect start to your Sri Lankan adventure.
Initial briefing session: Please join us for an initial briefing session at 5.30 PM [Local Time] with our company representative. We will provide you with a concise overview of the itinerary for the upcoming days and important guidelines for your journey.
Overnight Stay: Your accommodation is arranged in Negombo for a restful night’s sleep.
Day 2 : Muthurajawela Safari and Negombo City Tour
Morning Safari: Begin your day with an exciting safari in the Muthurajawela Wetlands, a diverse ecosystem that is home to a wide range of flora and fauna, including vibrant birdlife and lush mangroves. This ecological treasure showcases the rich biodiversity of Sri Lanka’s wetland habitats.
Afternoon City Tour: Discover the cultural highlights of Negombo, including its colonial heritage, ancient churches, and bustling local markets. This city’s diverse history is reflected in its architecture and community.
Overnight Stay: Return to your hotel in Negombo for another peaceful evening by the coast.
Day 3 : Explore Anuradhapura
Travel to Anuradhapura: Depart for the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts impressive ruins and sacred sites. As one of Sri Lanka’s most significant historical cities, Anuradhapura was the capital of the island from the 4th century BC until the 11th century AD.
Historical Exploration: Spend the day exploring the historical monuments, including the sacred Bodhi Tree, ancient stupas, and beautiful stone carvings that tell the story of Sri Lanka’s rich past. These sites offer insights into the island’s Buddhist heritage and ancient civilization.
Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Anuradhapura, immersed in the history and culture of this remarkable city.
Day 4 : Hiriwadunna Village Tour and Minneriya Safari
Hiriwadunna Village Experience: Travel to Hiriwadunna and enjoy a guided tour of this traditional village. Engage with local villagers, experience their way of life, and enjoy a scenic boat ride on the lake. This authentic village experience offers a glimpse into rural Sri Lankan life and traditions.
Evening Safari: Embark on a thrilling safari in Minneriya National Park, known for its large gatherings of elephants, diverse wildlife, and scenic landscapes. The park is renowned for “The Gathering” where hundreds of elephants congregate during the dry season.
Overnight Stay: Relax and unwind in Habarana for the night.
Day 5 : A Cultural and Natural Journey in Sigiriya
Morning Visit to Sigiriya: Begin your day with an exploration of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover ancient frescoes, wander through impressive gardens, and take in the breathtaking views from the summit. Known as the “Lion Rock,” Sigiriya stands as the testament to Sri Lankan architectural brilliance.
Visit to Sigiriya Museum: After exploring the fortress, immerse yourself in the rich history of the region at the Sigiriya Museum. The museum offers a fascinating collection of artefacts, exhibits, and models that provide deeper insights into the ancient civilisation that once thrived around Sigiriya.
Lunch Break: Enjoy a relaxing lunch at a local restaurant, savouring the flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Afternoon Leisure: Spend the afternoon at your leisure, either relaxing at your accommodation or opting for a visit to Hurulu Eco Park. The park offers a chance to witness Sri Lanka’s wildlife in its natural habitat, including elephants, deer, and various bird species.
Overnight Stay: Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Sigiriya, soaking in the beauty and history of the region.
Day 6: Cultural Exploration from Dambulla to Kandy
Travel to Kandy: Begin your journey to the historic city of Kandy, with stops at significant landmarks on the way.
Dambulla Cave Temple: Start with a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its intricate cave paintings and impressive Buddha statues. Carved into a rock face, this temple complex is one of the best-preserved cave temples in Asia and offers a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s religious and artistic heritage.
Spice Garden Visit with Lunch: On your way to Kandy, explore a local spice garden. Enjoy a guided tour through the garden, learning about Sri Lanka’s world-renowned spices and herbs. Following the tour, participate in a hands-on cooking class where you’ll learn to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using the fresh spices from the garden. After the class, savour the meal you’ve prepared, offering a true taste of Sri Lanka’s rich culinary traditions.
Afternoon Visit to the Temple of Tooth Relic: Upon arriving in Kandy, check into your accommodation and take some time to refresh yourself before continuing with the day’s activities. Then visit the Temple of Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most sacred sites in Sri Lanka. This revered Buddhist temple houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha and is a site of deep spiritual significance.
City Tour of Kandy: After your temple visit, enjoy a city tour of Kandy. Explore its scenic surroundings, capturing this vibrant cultural hub.
Cultural Dance: Conclude your day with a traditional cultural dance performance at 5.00 PM. Experience the rhythm and vibrancy of Sri Lankan music and dance, showcasing the island’s rich cultural heritage.
Overnight Stay: Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Kandy, reflecting on a day filled with cultural and historic discoveries.
Day 7 : Discover Kandy’s Gardens and Cultural Heritage
Morning Visit to Peradeniya Botanical Gardens: Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Renowned for its stunning collection of exotic plants and vibrant blooms, the gardens feature an impressive array of orchids and expansive lawns, offering a tranquil beginning to your day.
Visit to a Gem Museum: After exploring the gardens, head to a local gem museum. Kandy is famous for its precious gemstones, and the museum offers insights into Sri Lanka’s gem industry, showcasing a variety of gemstones including sapphires, rubies, and topaz. Learn about mining, cutting, and history of these valuable stones.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a recommended restaurant in Kandy. Choose from a selection of local and international dining options to suit your taste and enjoy a relaxing meal.
More Cultural Experience: In the afternoon, explore the rich cultural heritage of Kandy’s surrounding temples. Begin with Embekke Devalaya, famous for its intricate wooden cavings and historical significance. Continue to Lankathilake Vihara, known for its ancient murals and architectural beauty. Finish with a visit to Gadaladeniya Temple, celebrated for its unique South Indian architectural style and serene atmosphere.
Overnight Stay: Return to Kandy and enjoy a comfortable overnight stay. reflecting on a day filled with cultural exploration and natural beauty.
Day 8: Tea Factory Visit and Nuwara Eliya Exploration
Morning in Kandy: Start your day with breakfast in Kandy before setting off on your journey to Nuwara Eliya.
Travel to Nuwara Eliya: Enjoy a scenic drive through Sri Lanka’s picturesque hill country. As you travel, take in the stunning landscapes and lush greenery that characterise this region. Continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya, a charming town renowned for its cool climate, colonial architecture, and lush tea plantations. Often referred to as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya offers a picturesque setting with rolling hills and verdant landscapes.
Tea Factory Visit: En Route to Nuwara Eliya, stop at a traditional tea factory. Discover the intricate process of tea production, from the harvesting of tea leaves to the final stages of packaging. Learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned tea industry and enjoy a tasting session of fresh, aromatic tea.
Lunch: Enjoy a delicious lunch at a local restaurant or within the tea estate, where you can savour Sri Lankan cuisine and relax amidst the beautiful surroundings.
City Tour: Explore Nuwara Eliya’s key attactions, including Gregory Lake and the scenic town centre. The town’s unique blend of British colonial charm and natural beauty provides a memorable experience.
Golfing Experience (Optional): If time permits, enjoy a round of golf at the prestigious Nuwara Eliya Golf Club. Established in 1889, this golf course offers a distinctive golfing experience set against a stunning mountain backdrop.
Overnight Stay: Conclude your day with a relaxing overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya, taking in the crisp mountain air and serene environment.
Day 9: Horton Plains Trekking
Early Breakfast and Departure: After an early breakfast in Nuwara Eliya, set out for Horton Plains National Park.
Horton Plains National Park: Embark on a trek through Horton Plains, exploring its unique landscapes, including lush grasslands, forests, and diverse wildlife. Be sure to visit World’s End, a dramatic escarpment offering breathtaking views of the surronding valleys and mountains.
Lunch: After your trek, enjoy a packed lunch or return to Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing meal at a local restaurant, depending on your schedule and preferences.
Relaxation: Return to your accommodation in Nuwara Eliya and unwind. Enjoy the crisp mountain air and tranquil setting of this charming town.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night in Nuwara Eliya, reflecting on a day of natural exploration and relaxation.
Day 10: Scenic Train Ride to Ella
Train Journey: Experience one of the world’s most scenic train rides from Nuwara Eliya to Ella, passing through lush tea plantations and misty mountains. This train journey is renowned for its breathtaking views and offers a unique perspective on Sri Lanka’s hill country. [Please note that train ticket booking is highly competitive. We will do our best to reserve a seat for you, however, if we are unable to secure a ticket, you will travel by your scheduled tour vehicle. Availability may also depend on the day of your tour confirmation.]
Ella Tour: Spend the evening exploring the laid-back town of Ella. Enjoy its vibrant cafes, stunning landscapes, and beautiful surroundings. Ella is a paradise for nature lovers and hikers, offering numerous scenic spots and relaxing atmosphere.
Overnight Stay: Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay in Ella, reflecting on a day filled with scenic beauty and exploration.
Day 11: Explore Ella and Travel to Yala
Ella Attractions: Discover the natural beauty of Ella, visiting highlights such as Little Adam’s Peak. Nine Arches Bridge, and Ravana Falls. These attractions showcase the stunning landscapes and natural wonders of the region.
Travel to Yala: In the afternoon, journey to Yala, known for its abundant wildlife and natural beauty. Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular national parks, offering incredible wildlife experiences.
Overnight Stay: Stay overnight in Yala, preparing for a day of adventure in the national park.
Day 12: Yala Safari
Yala National Park Safari: Start your day with an exhilarating safari in Yala national Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife destinations. Yala is famous for its high concentration of leopards, making it one of the best places in the world to witness these elusive big cats in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from dense jungles to open grasslands, are home to rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, sloth bears, and impressive array of bird species. The early morning or late afternoon safari offers the best opportunities to spot these magnificent creatures.
Travel to MIrissa: In the afternoon, journey to the charming coastal town of Mirissa. Known for its golden beaches and crystal-clear waters, Mirissa is the perfect destination for those looking to unwind by the sea. Whether you’re interested in surfing, whale watching, or simply relaxing on the beach, Mirissa offers a laid-back atmosphere that appeals to all kinds of travellers.
Overnight Stay: End your day with an overnight stay in Mirissa, soaking in the peaceful seaside ambience and preparing for the adventures that await.
Day 13: Whale Watching and Beach Exploration
Whale Watching: Set sail on a whale-watching tour in the early morning, where you may encounter blue whales, sperm whales, and dolphins in their natural habitat. Mirissa is one of the best places in the world for whale watching.
Evening Exploration: Discover nearby beaches like Secret Beach and Coconut Tree Hill, perfect for relaxation and exploration. These hidden gems offer serene settings and stunning views.
Overnight Stay: Relax and unwind in Mirissa for the night.
Day 14: Surfing and Snorkelling
Water Activities: Engage in exciting water activities such as surfing, snorkeling, and swimming in the pristine waters of Mirissa. The area’s clear waters and vibrant marine life make it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts.
Surfing Lessons: Enjoy a surfing lesson on Mirissa’s renowned waves, perfect for beginners and experienced surfers alike. The beach offers excellent conditions for surfing and other water sports.
Overnight Stay: Spend the night in Mirissa, enjoying the vibrant beach culture.
Day 15: Galle Attractions
Journey to Galle: Travel to the historic city of Galle, known for its colonial architecture and rich history. Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a testament to the city’s colonial past and is one of the best-preserved forts in Asia.
Galle Fort Tour: Explore the famous Galle Fort, walking through its charming streets, admiring its historic buildings, and enjoying stunning ocean views. The fort is a cultural and architectural gem, offering a glimpse into the island’s colonial heritage.
Lunch: After the tour, enjoy a delicious lunch at a recommended restaurant in Galle. Savour a variety of local and international cuisine while soaking up the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal city.
Relaxation on Beach: Stroll along the stunning Unawatuna beach facing the Indian Ocean and engage in diverse water sports offered by local establishments or opt for a snorkelling or diving expedition for coral reef sites in proximity.
Overnight Stay: Return to Retire into your accommodation in Galle by the sea for an overnight stay, reflecting on the rich history and natural beauty you’ve experienced throughout the day.
Day 16: Commercial Hub of Sri Lanka
Begin your travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital city. Colombo is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history and diverse culture. En route embark on a river safari in the Madu River, exploring its mangrove forests and rich biodiversity. The river is home to a diverse range of wildlife and offers a peaceful escape into nature.
Colombo City Tour: Enjoy a guided tour of Colombo, visiting key attractions such as the National Museum, Galle Face Green. If time permits, our representative will guide you through a few more major city attractions. The city offers a mix of modernity and tradition, with something for every traveller.
Overnight Stay: Retire into your accommodation in Colombo or explore Colombo nightlife that caters to a range of preferences, from lively party scenes to quiet, sophisticated settings, ensuring there’s something for everyone.
Day 17: Departure
Safely transfer to Bandaranayake International Airport for your departure, concluding your unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure.