Highlights Sri Lanka
Day 1: Negombo
- Enjoy a leisurely morning at the beach in Negombo before your trip begins.
- Consider a boat ride on the Negombo Lagoon to see wildlife and mangroves (optional).
- In the afternoon, drive to Anuradhapura with a stop at the Aukana Buddha statue, a colossal 12-meter tall statue carved from granite (optional).
Day 2: Anuradhapura - Sigiriya - Dambulla - Habarana
- Hire a local guide in Anuradhapura for a deeper understanding of the ancient city’s history and significance.
- At Sigiriya, choose the sunrise option to climb Lion Rock and witness breathtaking panoramic views (weather permitting).
- In Dambulla, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple complex and marvel at the intricate rock paintings and statues.
Day 3: Habarana - Polonnaruwa
- En route to Polonnaruwa, consider a detour to the Minneriya National Park for an afternoon jeep safari to see herds of elephants gathering around the Minneriya reservoir (seasonal).
Day 4: Habarana - Kaudulla National Park
- Opt for a full-day jeep safari in Kaudulla National Park for a higher chance of spotting wildlife.
- Consider a village experience near Habarana to learn about Sri Lankan rural life and traditions (optional).
Day 5: Kaudulla National Park - Kandy
- Take a cooking class in Habarana and learn to prepare a traditional Sri Lankan meal (optional).
- Visit the National Museum of Kandy showcasing Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage (optional).
Day 6: Explore Kandy
- Take a boat ride on Kandy Lake and enjoy the peaceful scenery.
- Visit the Bahirava Kandy Museum for a glimpse into Kandyan royalty (optional).
- In the evening, explore the vibrant night market around Kandy Lake.
Day 7: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
- Opt for the scenic Kandy-Nuwara Eliya train journey for a memorable experience (reservations recommended).
- Visit a working tea factory in Nuwara Eliya and witness the tea-making process firsthand.
- Enjoy a scenic hike to Hakgala Botanical Garden, boasting a diverse collection of flora and fauna.
Day 8: Nuwara Eliya - Ella
- Explore Labukelle Tea Factory, a historic tea factory turned museum in Nuwara Eliya (optional).
- In Ella, take a scenic hike to Lipton’s Seat for breathtaking views of the surrounding tea plantations.
- Visit the Ravana Ella
Day 9: Ella - Yala National Park
- Take a detour to Rawana Ella Waterfall, a cascading waterfall surrounded by lush greenery (seasonal).
- Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel near Yala National Park before the evening safari.
Day 10: Yala National Park - Mirissa
- Opt for a combined morning and afternoon jeep safari in Yala National Park to maximise your chances of spotting wildlife.
- Visit Kataragama, a sacred town known for its Hindu and Buddhist temples (optional).
Day 11: Mirissa (Rest Day)
- Go whale watching or dolphin watching (seasonal) for a chance to see majestic marine animals in their natural habitat.
- Learn to surf with lessons offered by local instructors at Mirissa beach (optional).
- Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner with fresh catches from the local market.
Day 12: Mirissa - Negombo
- Visit the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, on your way back to Negombo (optional).
- Enjoy a final afternoon relaxing on the beach in Negombo before your departure.