Sri Lanka Luxury Tour – Culture, Wildlife and Beaches

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), Negombo where you will be greeted by our representative. If you wish to exchange your currencies for local currencies, there are several currency exchange counters with standard rates. Else, you can ask our team representative for support. After collecting your luggage, get transferred to a hotel via a private vehicle. Take rest and if time permits or if you wish to, stroll the nearby places.

Take a 3-4 hour scenic drive to the outskirts of Puttalam to excursion to Kaffir Village Community. Get a chance to learn about Kaffirs also referred to as ‘Ceylon Africans’, an eccentric small community in Sri Lanka. Interact with a couple of families and get a deep insight into their culture and lifestyle. Also, get entertained with their traditional song and dances.

Puttalam Attractions:

• Excursion to Kaffir Village Community
• Traditional songs and dances (Kaffir Community)

After completing the excursion, head to the beautiful coastal town of Kalpitiya which is in the western region of Puttalam renowned for kite-surfing and water sports. Transfer to the hotel and the evening is free to do your favorite activities.

Kalpitiya is made up of 14 small islands which are home to local fishing communities. Begin your day with a visit to Kalpitiya Dutch Fort which is associated with the country’s rich history. This square-shaped iconic landmark is made of limestone and coral used for storing and shipping treasures which is now a popular tourist attraction.

After completing the Fort Tour, head to Kalpitiya Lagoon which is the best place for water sports and kitesurfing. Visitors can go kayaking and adore the lagoon’s mangrove forests tour. Dolphin watching is also another prime attraction here. Adventure seekers can go scuba diving, snorkeling, and paddleboarding through the sea. Travelers can also learn kitesurfing activities. In the vicinity, there is Kalpititya Lagoon Resort which is a top must-visit place for savoring delicious cuisine and phenomenal views. Spend the day participating in fun activities and end the day relishing the beautiful sunset view.

Kalpitiya Attractions:

• Kalpitiya Dutch Fort- Square-shaped iconic landmark
• Kalpitiya Lagoon- Best for water sports (scuba diving, kayaking, snorkeling, etc.), kitesurfing, dolphin watching

Anuradhapura is a World Heritage Site-listed city renowned for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. The day begins with a visit to Mihintale, a sacred historical and cultural site famous as the 'cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is historically recorded as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Climb a huge 1,840-step stairway where you can explore ancient granite steps, dagobas, the relic house and monks’ refectory, the assembly hall, meditation rock, caves, and ponds in the vicinity. If you wish to, you can practice meditation near the 'Kaludiya Pokuna' pond complex.

After lunch, explore the UNESCO Heritage Sites in Anuradhapura, the city popularly called the ‘Garden of Dagobas’. Explore the Jetavanaramaya Monastery, Ruwanweliseya Stupa, sacred Bodhi tree, Abhayagiri Monastery Complex, Samadhi Buddha Statue, Thuparmaya, Isurumuniya Temple, Kuttam Pokuna, Archaeological Museum, and many other iconic sites in the vicinity.

Anuradhapura Attractions:

• Mihintale- Sacred historical and cultural site
• Ruwanweliseya Stupa and Jetavanaramaya Monastery- The largest two structures in the city
• Sri Maha Bodhi tree- Sacred tree in the tranquil Mahamevnāwa Gardens
• Thuparamaya- Sri Lanka's first stupa
• Abhayagiri Monastery Complex- Impressive ruins
• Samadhi Buddha Statue- Carved from dolomite marble in Mahamevnāwa Park
• Kuttam Pokuna- An ancient bath used by the capital's Buddhist monks
• Isurumuniya Temple- Incredible architectural marvels and intricate sculptures
• Archaeological Museum- Gain cultural insights

Head to Sigiriya and en route visit the remote village of ‘Pattikara Maduwa’ in Ritigala for a special spectacle of Angampora, Sri Lanka's indigenous Martial Arts.

Optional Hike: Ritigala Mountain

Travelers can skip the remote village tour and head for a hike to Ritigala Mountain. The highest mountain in northern Sri Lanka at an elevation of 2,513 ft. is home to an ancient Buddhist monastery. A significant site having ruins and rock inscriptions dates back to the 1st century BC. Also, participate in the Almsgiving Ceremony for resident monks.

After an amazing hike, drive to Sigiriya and transfer to the hotel. Later, get ready to embark on the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress hike. The fortress is surrounded by beautiful gardens and moats. It is built by King Kashyapa popular for its scenic surrounding views, its ruined halls, citadel, Mirror Wall, and ancient Frescoes. A hike can be tiring but it offers breathtaking views which is fully worth it.

Sigiriya Attractions:

• Ritigala Mountain Hike (en route)- A home to Buddhist Monastery at an elevation of 2,513 ft
• Sigiriya Rock Fortress- A UNESCO-listed site popular for its ancient ruins, frescoes, and breathtaking views

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Polonnaruwa which is abundant with archaeological marvels (temples, palaces, shrines, and ruins). Explore King Parakramabahu period’s Royal Palace, ancient structure Vatadage, Gal Vihara, Rankot Vihara, and the monks’ quarters, the massive Buddha statue at Lankathilaka Image House, and Nissanka Latha Mandapaya.

After phenomenal iconic site visits, head to a local farmer’s house for a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. Relish the delicious local foods cooked on clay pots. After lunch, drive to Minneriya National Park for natural tours. It is home to the world’s largest Asian elephant gathering (in dry seasons especially). Through Jeep Safari explore the national park and adore the diverse flora and fauna in the vicinity. Get sights of diverse species of birds (painted stork, spot-billed pelican, etc.), endangered species (leopards, sloth bears, etc.), amphibians, reptiles, etc.

Polonnaruwa Attractions:

• Minneriya National Park- Home to the world’s largest Asian Elephants gathering, diverse flora and fauna
• Gal Vihara- Popular rock monastery with images of Buddha
• Nissanka Latha Mandapaya- Unique carved stone columns
• Lankathilaka Image House- Exemplary monument with impressive architecture
• Archaeological Excursions- Ancient Palace of King Parakramabahu, Vatadage, etc.

Head to Kandy and visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site Dambulla en route. A well-preserved complex in Sri Lanka with 5 main caves that display statues of Lord Buddha, kings, and Lord Vishnu. From the cave complex, relish the stunning views from its perch on Dambulla Rock.

Sri Lanka is rich in spices and after lunch visit Ranweli Spice Garden and learn about the plantation of a variety of spices such as Cinnamon, Cardamom, Nutmeg, Vanilla, etc. Also, learn about its uses and benefits.

Dambulla Attractions:

• Dambulla Caves- 5 main caves that carry historical and cultural significance

• Dambulla Rock- Relish stunning views from Dambulla Rock
• Ironwood Grove Forest Monastery- One of the first monasteries outside Anuradhapura
• Ranweli Spice Garden (Matale)- Pays tribute to Sri Lankan rich spices

After lunch, drive to Kandy, the last monarchial Kingdom of Sri Lanka. Visit the sacred Tooth Relic Temple where Buddha's tooth is preserved. Explore the beautiful artificial Kandy Lake in the vicinity. Next, visit the Royal Palace/Wales Park and adore the beautiful view of the surroundings. Later, in the evening attend Kandy Cultural Dance Shows that feature diverse traditional performances.

Kandy Attractions:

• Tooth Relic Temple- UNESCO-listed Sacred site
• Kandy Lake- Beautiful artificial lake also popular as Kiri Muhuda
• Royal Palace/Wales Park- Adore beautiful view of the surroundings, Kandy Lake
• Kandy Cultural Dance Shows- Features diverse traditional performances

After breakfast, start a tour with a visit to the Gadaladeniya Temple which was built using stones. Adore the magical creations of carved statues and the ‘Makara Thorana’ at the temple.

Next, stop by ‘Ancient Craft Artisans’ and learn the process of brass making using traditional methods and techniques that date back to the ancient Kandyan Kingdom period. You can skip this place and visit the ‘Sooriyakantha Centre for Arts & Culture’. Inspired by Dutch architecture mansions it exhibits ancient books, Buddhist manuscripts, photography, and a collection of ancient and traditional furniture and wall paintings.

Post lunch, take a drive to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. It is a nursery and breeding center for captive Wild elephants where you can observe the largest herd closely. You can feed them, play with them, and see them bathing.

Kandy Attractions:

• Gadaladeniya Temple- One of the largest rock temples in Sri Lanka
• Ancient craft artisans- Learn brass making using traditional techniques
• Suriyakantha Centre for Arts and Culture- Wonderful collections of arts, crafts, and artifacts, Dutch-style mansions
• Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage- Observe elephants closely

Head to Hatton, the naturally beautiful town popular as Sri Lanka’s leading center for the tea industry. En route stop at the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya. The Orchid House, the beautiful Avenue of Palms, the Javan Fig tree, and 4000 species of plants (spices, medicinal, and endemic plants) are prime attractions here.

Peradeniya Attractions:

• Royal Botanic Gardens- Popular for its orchid collections, 4000 species of plants

After a phenomenal tour, drive to Hatton admiring the lush mist-laden mountains. It is one of the prime hubs of the tea industry with numerous tea factories. Visit one of the tea factories to learn about the varieties of tea, the entire tea-making process, and the century-old craft. Also, participate in tea-tasting sessions and enjoy the fresh flavors. Ceylon Tea Trails in Hatton is one of the major attractions if travelers seek to they can explore this trail too.

Hatton Attractions:

• Tea Factory excursion- Learn about the century-old craft of the tea-making process, varieties of tea, and tea-tasting

Explore naturally beautiful Hatton with a visit to St. Clair’s Falls. This attractive waterfall is popular as the ‘Little Niagra of Sri Lanka’ that flows through lush tea estates and green hills.

Next, visit 19th-century Warleigh Church which is a great testament to colonial life in Sri Lanka. The old British architecture of the church is impressive.

One of the not-to-be-missed iconic sites in Hatton is Castlereagh Reservoir surrounded by green peaks. The crystal clear water, and diverse vegetation, are major highlights where you can enjoy canoeing. A seaplane landing on the reservoir from Colombo is an option to get here.

Hatton Attractions:

• St. Clair’s Falls- Beautiful waterfall renowned as Little Niagra of Sri Lanka
• Warleigh Church- The 19th-century church with impressive British architecture
• Castlereagh Reservoir- Iconic crystal clear water reservoir with scenic surroundings

Drive to Nuwara Eliya, popularly known as the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka. The town is adorned with tea plantations all over the hills and valleys. Upon arriving, head to Haklgala Botanical Garden which is home to over 10,000 flowering plants. Get sights of exotic plants from different nations. The historically significant garden is a perfect amalgamation of nature, culture, and history. A perfect destination for horticulture and nature lovers.

Nuwara Eliya Attractions:

• Haklgala Botanical Garden- Home to 10,000 flowering plants, and exotic plants

Enjoy a scenic train ride to the naturally beautiful town of Ella nestled in the hills and surrounded by large peaks. Admire the lush greenery tea plantations, scenic landscapes, and numerous waterfalls.

Board Time- 9:25 AM Depart from Nanu Oya Train Station

-13:24 PM Arrive in Ella

Upon arriving at Ella, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge which is one of the best specimens of colonial-era railway construction in Sri Lanka. Constructed in 1921 is popular as the ‘Bridge in the Sky’ is a must-visit site. Adore the sight of passing trains closely and click some pictures of the best scenery as a memory.

Ella Attractions:

• Scenic Train Ride- Beautiful landscape views, lush green tea plantation, large peaks
• Nine Arch Bridge- One of the best specimens of colonial-era railway construction

Start the early morning with a hike to the popular Little Adam’s Peak which got its name from the iconic Adam Peak because of its similar structure. At an elevation of 1,141m, it offers stunning views of Ella, surrounding peaks, and beautiful lush green tea estates. You can start a hike early if you wish to get a sunrise view over the peaks. The hike is relatively easy so complete a hike adoring the views and taking your own pace.

Have breakfast after the hike and visit the 2000-year-old Dhowa/Dowa Rock Temple. The 38-foot tall Buddha statue carved on a rock cliff, a 12-foot cave covered with several colorful Jathaka Stories, and Gal Vihara Geya (Image house) in the vicinity are major attractions. Explore this temple to relish the cultural part.

Next, drive to visit Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall Diyaluma Falls which comprises multiple natural infinity pools. Hike to the top of the falls to admire the surrounding incredible views or just adore it from the bottom.

Then, take a scenic ride to Yala and transfer to the hotel.

Ella Attractions:

• Little Adam’s Peak- One of the best spots for sunrise or sunset views
• Dhowa/Dowa Rock Temple- 2000-year-old rock temple
• Diyaluma Falls- Sri Lanka’s second-highest waterfall

Yala National Park is the most visited second largest national park in Sri Lanka. The park is renowned for its high concentration of Leopards. Wildlife jeep safari, bird watching, and photography are some of the best activities to do. Among 5 blocks, 3 are open to travelers but still, make sure to keep tight security for wildlife. Drive to Yala National Park and commence the Jungle Jeep safari. A 3-4 hour safari takes you in the wild vicinity of the park passing through diverse vegetation. Observe diverse species such as Wild elephants, Wild boar, Sambar deer, bird species, and many more including endangered species like sloth bears, and crocodiles. If lucky get a chance to witness a leopard. The rich biodiversity of the park balances the ecology of the park. The park houses 215 species of birds and 44 mammal species. In the vicinity lies two significant Buddhist pilgrimage sites- Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara. The park is historically, culturally, and naturally significant. Create unforgettable memories during the phenomenal national park tour.

Back to the hotel after completing the tour.

Yala Attractions:

• Yala National Park Safari- Most visited second largest national park in Sri Lanka popular for Jungle Safari, Bird watching, etc. Home to 215 species of birds, and 44 mammal species

After breakfast, head to Tangalle and stop at Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe en route. It is home to orphan elephant calves where they are taken care of until they are capable enough to be released to the wild. Enjoy the milk-feeding session for the elephant calves which occurs every 3 hours throughout the year. The first milk-feeding session begins at 10:30 am.

Udawalawe Attractions:

• Elephant Transit Home

After spending some time here, travel to Tangalle and the remaining day is leisure. You are free to relax, explore nearby places, or carry out activities on your own.

Drive early to Mirissa Fisheries Harbour in Weligama from Tangalle. Board on a special Catamaran boat ride to observe the largest mammals in their natural habitat. Get a chance to see turtles, flying fish, and several species of dolphins and whales such as blue whales, sperm whales, fin whales, and orcas. Adore the beautiful scenery, enjoy breakfast, and get information from the guide about the whales, their types, behavior, etc. You can also enjoy paddle boarding or swimming as the boat anchors off Weligama Bay.

The day is leisure after this incredible tour. You are free to do things on your own or go for an optional tour to Top House Cinnamon Tours.

Optional Tour: Top House (Cinnamon Estate)

Travelers can enjoy a private Cinnamon Tour in the popular Top House where you learn about the history of Ceylon cinnamon farming and the life of farmers. Get a sight of true Ceylon cinnamon that grows on the steep slopes of a high hill. Also, visit an artisan distillery where pure cinnamon leaf oils are extracted. Adore the eco-friendly and perfectly self-sustaining farming process.

Weligama Attractions:

• Mirissa Fisheries Harbour- Adventurous boat trip for turtles, flying fish, whales and dolphins watching
• Top House (Cinnamon Estate)- Eco-friendly farming process of pure Ceylon Cinnamon

Head to the old and culturally pleasant town of Galle. Stop en route at Koggala Coastal Town to learn a unique traditional fishing method known as ‘Ritipanna’. Learn Stilt Fishing (Ritipanna) from the local fishermen who used a narrow pole tied to a stick installed on the sea bed.

Transfer to the hotel upon arriving at Galle. Later, explore a significant historical, archaeological, and architectural site Galle Fort which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. In the vicinity, visit the 18th-century Galle Clock Tower, the oldest Protestant Groote Kerk church, and the onshore oldest Galle Lighthouse. Also, explore the National Museum of Galle which houses a limited collection of exhibits from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British periods and 3 main galleries.

Galle Attractions:

• Koggala Coastal Town- Learn Stilt Fishing from the local fishermen
• Galle Dutch Fort- Significant historical, archaeological, and architectural heritage site
• Galle Lighthouse- Onshore and Oldest lighthouse station
• Galle Clock Tower- The 18th-century popular landmark
• Dutch Reformed Church or Groote Kerk- One of the oldest Protestant churches in Sri Lanka
• The National Museum of Galle- One of the national museums in Sri Lanka

In the morning, visit the iconic Galle International Cricket Stadium which is termed as one of the most beautiful stadiums in the world. Adore the view of the Indian Ocean visible on two sides of the ground.

Next, head to Hikkaduwa Coastal Town renowned for its beaches, coral reef, and rich underwater environment. It is one of the perfect holiday destinations best for surfing, and snorkeling. Perform surfing or snorkeling activities if you wish to under proper guidance. Else, visit Sri Lanka’s first marine Coral Sanctuary which houses approx. 70 varieties of colorful corals.

Galle Attractions:

• Galle International Cricket Stadium- Iconic and one of the most beautiful cricket grounds in the world
• Hikkaduwa Coastal town- World famous for its beaches, popular surf spot, and a perfect holiday destination

Drive to Bentota and en route stop at Kasgoda Sea Conservation Project which is the first established Turtle Conservation Project in Sri Lanka. Home to 7 endangered species of Turtles where they are nest, hatched, and nurtured. Spend some time here and learn about turtles. Also, get a chance to release them into the sea. Transfer to the hotel at Bentota for rest.

Bentota Attractions:

• Kasgoda Sea Conservation Project- Plays a vital role in conserving the future of sea turtles

Travelers can choose to visit Kande Vihara, the archaeological site and most renowned Buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. Witness one of the tallest sitting Buddha statues in the world including a stupa, Bodhi tree, and a relic chamber. Dress appropriately to visit this temple.

Next, visit Lunuganga Estate, the house of the world’s most celebrated architect Geoffrey Bawa. He is labeled as ‘the father of Asian architecture’. It lies on the banks of the Dedduwa Lake. The beautiful views and aesthetic interiors including Bawa’s original artwork and blueprints on the walls are the major highlights of the estate. It is a remarkable place for architecture lovers.

Get ready for the Madu Ganga River Safari situated at Balapitiya which is the second biggest wetland in Sri Lanka. The area is rich in biodiversity which comprises 14 mangrove species found in Sri Lanka. An ideal place for nature lovers as it houses 300 species of flora and about 250 fauna. A fun-filled boat ride that lasts for 1-2 hours with trained local fishermen is a treat to relish diverse species of birds, wildlife, and plant species. During a boat ride, if lucky get sight of water snakes, tree snakes, crocodiles, and wild boars.

The boat ride stops at Cinnamon Island where travelers get a chance to learn cinnamon harvesting process. The second stop is at one of the large inhabited islands Koth Duwa. Visit the ancient Buddhist Temple, Bo-tree, Image House, and Dagoba. Don’t miss out on the fish spa during this safari which is a unique experience in the beautiful scenic environment.

Boat Ride Timings: 6 am - 6 pm

Fish Spa Cost: USD 5 per person

Boat Fee Structure:

• USD 10 per person (Group Boat)
• USD 25 - 40 (the whole Boat for 1.5 hours includes entry fee of Cinnamon Island, Buddhist Temple)

Bentota Attractions:

• Kande Vihara- One of the tallest sitting Buddha statues
• Lunuganga Estate- The country house celebrating the legacy of renowned architect Geoffery Bawa
• Madu Ganga River Safari- Ideal place for nature lovers as it houses 300 species of flora and about 250 fauna

After breakfast, depart to Colombo and transfer to the hotel for rest. Later, explore the remarkable attractions in Colombo. Begin with a visit to the Old Colombo Dutch Hospital, the oldest building in the Colombo Fort Area from the period of the Dutch Colonial Era. At present, it is a shopping zone so, you can go shopping if you wish to. There are other shopping options such as the famous Pettah Bazaar, and Arcade of Independence Square.

Return to the hotel and make the necessary packing for your departure (your home or next destination) as your scheduled international flight.

Colombo Attractions:

• Old Colombo Dutch Hospital- A heritage site which is the oldest building in the Colombo Fort Area
• Pettah Bazaar, Arcade of Independence Square- Popular Shopping Complexes