Welcome to Sri Lanka!

You will be greeted at the airport by your driver and then head towards Negombo.

You will have access to your room starting at 2:00 PM. In case of an early arrival, an early check-in can be arranged (at an additional cost).

Overnight stay in Negombo.

You will be staying at the Blue Elephant Hotel or similar.

Overnight stay at hotel

Breakfast.

Today, you’ll embark on a journey to the Cultural Triangle and visit the magnificent Dambulla Temple, but first, an extraordinary experience awaits!

Authentic Sea Outing with Local Fishermen

Meet local fishermen who will take you on their catamaran for a boat ride along the coast. This one-hour excursion offers a glimpse into their lives and the boats they use for fishing. It’s an authentic experience and a chance to understand their way of life. This encounter not only provides a memorable adventure but also supports the fishermen and their families, as fishing is a challenging profession with modest earnings.

Visit to Dambulla Temple

Explore the ancient Dambulla Cave Temple, dating back to the 1st century BCE. The five sanctuary caves are adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and are a UNESCO World Heritage site. The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Overnight Stay in Habarana

You will be staying at Mutu Village Hotel in a wooden cabin.

Breakfast at the hotel. 

Today, you will discover one of the wonders of the Cultural Triangle.

Visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Early in the morning, ascend the 8th Wonder of the World, Sigiriya Lion Rock. Famous for its frescoes, the ancient royal fortress is one of the island’s most captivating sites. From the summit, enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. Sigiriya Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

The site opens at 6:30 AM; we recommend starting your visit as early as possible to avoid the heat and the tourist crowds. After the tour, feel free to visit the site museum, which provides an overview of the rock and illustrates the grandeur of the palace during King Kassapa’s time with 3D reconstructions.

 Discover the Secrets of Making a Traditional Sri Lankan Snack!

Take a bullock cart ride and cross a lake by canoe to reach a Sri Lankan village, where you will learn to make a typical snack: pol roti, served with pol sambol (a coconut-based pancake).

 Ayurvedic Massage at Athreya Ayurveda Ashram

Explore Ayurveda, the ancient traditional medicine, through a one-hour massage followed by twenty minutes in an herbal sauna. All in a calm and relaxing setting, this is the perfect break between your discoveries in the Cultural Triangle!

Overnight Stay in Habarana

You will be staying at Mutu Village Hotel in a wooden cabin.

Breakfast. 

Today, you will head towards Mahiyanganaya, an off-the-beaten-path destination. On the way, you’ll visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

Visit to the Archaeological Site of Polonnaruwa

In the 10th century, Polonnaruwa succeeded Anuradhapura as the capital of Ceylon. You’ll explore the remnants of its past glory, including the statue of King Parakramabahu, the ancient Royal Palace, the audience hall, the Royal Bath, the relic chamber, Galpotha (an 8-meter stone book), and the temple dedicated to Shiva and Gal Vihare with its four Buddha statues. The archaeological site of Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Overnight Stay in Mahiyanganaya

You will be staying at Kevan’s Casa Hotel.

This morning, you will enjoy beautiful discoveries before heading towards Nuwara Eliya, deep in the heart of the tea plantations!

Boat Ride on Lake Sorabora and Live Cooking Breakfast on a Rock

Leave early this morning to witness the sunrise over Lake Sorabora, where local fishermen gather each morning. A place of great serenity, nestled in nature.

You will sail on the lake’s waters aboard a fisherman’s boat, take a short walk around the lake, and reach Sorabora Rock for an outdoor breakfast with a stunning view.

Hike to Ratna Ella Waterfall and Traditional Lunch

Around 9:30 AM, you will head to the small village of Rathna Ella, from where you will embark on a leisurely 3-4 hour hike (easy level), through rural landscapes, rice fields, and jungle, to the magnificent Ratna Ella Waterfall, over 100 meters high. Accessible only with assistance, it is rarely visited.

Enjoy a refreshing swim upon arrival!

Then, you will return to your starting point, where a delicious traditional lunch awaits!

The hike is generally easy (2/3 on flat terrain along a canal, 1/3 with slower progress and some rock climbing to the waterfall).

Overnight Stay in Nuwara Eliya

You will be staying at Lynden Grove Hotel in a deluxe room.

Breakfast 

It’s now time to explore the famous Ceylon tea plantations! You will head towards Bandarawela.

Introduction to Tea Picking and Factory Tour

Visit the Tea factory for an immersive experience in the world of Ceylon tea. Begin by learning the art of tea picking and understanding how meticulous and challenging the work of the pickers is. You’ll then see the entire process from leaf to cup.

Put on your “bag hat”—the modern version of the traditional wicker basket—and enjoy about twenty minutes of tea picking, a fun activity perfect for memorable photos!

Next, tour the factory to see how the leaves are processed into the tea we all know. You’ll observe the various stages, from processing to packaging and shipment to the Colombo auction house. Learn about the different tea qualities, from the most precious to the simple powder used in tea bags.

To conclude this experience, enjoy a delicious cup of tea with a breathtaking view of the surrounding plantations.

From Pedro Estate, you can take scenic paths through the plantations and, if time permits, walk to Lovers Leap Waterfall.

 Train Journey Through the Plantations

In the early afternoon, head to Nanu Oya station for a local train ride. During the journey, you’ll admire the stunning landscapes of the region.

Note: Seats are not guaranteed, and the journey may be standing.

Overnight Stay in Bandarawela

You will be staying at Villa Perpetua Hotel.

Breakfast 

Visit to Amba Estate Farm and Tea Tasting

Discover this unique and unconventional place that practices organic farming and produces delicious artisanal products (teas, herbal teas, coffees, spices, jams, and chutneys).

You can stroll through the farm, meet the animals, and learn more about the organic methods used to cultivate tea, coffee, cinnamon, and a variety of herbs, spices, fruits, and vegetables. Depending on the production schedule, you might also witness the manual tea production process and even try your hand at picking and rolling your own tea!

Afternoon free to Explore Ella and its Surroundings

Little Adam’s Peak An accessible hike through tea plantations, Little Adam’s Peak offers a breathtaking view of the Ella Valley. Some say that at certain times of the year, it’s even possible to see the Indian Ocean. The hike takes about 1.5 to 2 hours from Ella or 30 minutes round trip from the start of the trail.

Nine Arch Bridge The famous Nine Arch Bridge is located between Ella and Demodara stations. Over 100 years old, it’s a marvel of early 20th-century engineering. Built with stone blocks and cement without any iron or concrete reinforcement, it features nine gigantic, slightly curved arches that allow the train to pass between two mountains. Completed in 1921, its construction story is fascinating. The British began the work, but it was slowed by World War I. The steel reserved for the site was seized and allocated to war-related projects. Construction was halted for several months, and the bridge was eventually finished without using any steel.

Highlight: Zipline Adventure For thrill-seekers, this zipline lets you descend 550 meters over Ella Valley, enjoying a 360-degree view of the landscapes below. Approximately 80 meters above the ground, with a maximum speed of 80 km/h, the descent lasts only a few seconds. It’s accessible to the whole family (minimum weight 30 kg) for an additional cost of 23 $ per person.

Overnight Stay in Bandarawela

You will be staying at Villa Perpetua Hotel.

Breakfast 

Today, you will head towards Udawalawe, with a final stop in the heart of the tea plantations.

 Exploration of the Lipton Seat Region by Tuk Tuk

Meet at Bandarawella station at 8:30/9:00 AM, where a tuk tuk will be waiting to take you to Lipton Seat, the vantage point from which Sir Lipton loved to admire his tea plantations.

On the way, you will stop for a walk to a stunning viewpoint where you can admire the surrounding plantations and various valleys. You will pass through a small village of tea pickers, learning more about tea cultivation in Sri Lanka. You will then reach the summit to enjoy the breathtaking view, a prepared picnic, and a cup of tea.

Sundays are the rest days for the tea pickers, and the factories are closed on Mondays. However, you can still stroll through the plantations.

Rest and Relaxation at Athgira River Camp

Enjoy the pool, play volleyball or badminton, or simply relax by the river for some peace and rest before your very early morning safari the next day!

Overnight Stay in Udawalawe National Park

You will be staying in a deluxe tent at Athgira River Camp.

Breakfast 

You will head towards the southern coast for the beach part of your stay.

4×4 Safari in Udawalawe National Park

You will have the chance to admire numerous species coming to drink around the reservoir, which is truly the heart of this park and gives it its name.

Duration of the safari: Approximately 3 hours

Overnight Stay in Matara

You will be staying at Lakraj Heritage Hotel in a deluxe room.

Breakfast 

Day of Rest and Relaxation on Matara Beach

You can enjoy the beaches of Polhena or Madiha for swimming or snorkeling. Their crystal-clear waters allow you to swim with colorful fish and sometimes even turtles.

Highlight: Enjoy a drink at the former village doctor’s house, now a cool bar run by a small group of Australian surfers!

Sip a cocktail or a Lion Lager (local beer) in a relaxed atmosphere facing the Indian Ocean at The Doctor’s House. This unique spot is perfect for unwinding after a day of surfing, beach time, or simply lounging by the pool.

You can also visit the nearby Mirissa Beach.

Highlight: Enjoy an Ayurvedic massage at Secret Root SPA

If you want to relax your body and mind, we highly recommend trying one of the Ayurvedic massages offered by Secret Root Spa. Just a few hundred meters from the beach, you’ll discover a beautiful place that invites tranquility and relaxation.

Advance booking is recommended.

Highlight: Eat Fresh Fish on Mirissa Beach

In the evening, Mirissa Beach transforms as most restaurants set up stalls with the day’s catch. You can choose from fish, shrimp, or calamari, which will be grilled on the spot and served with fries and salad.

A dinner with your feet in the sand and wonderful vacation memories!

Overnight Stay in Matara

You will be staying at Lakraj Heritage Hotel in a deluxe room.

Breakfast 

Discover the Secrets of Batik Art at One of the Island’s Last Artisan Workshops

Today promises a genuine encounter and a memorable sharing experience that will leave a lasting impression! We invite you not to just any batik workshop, but to visit a true artist who has been using this artisanal technique for 60 years. She has exhibited her work in many countries around the world, and two of her small scarves have even been worn by Queen Elizabeth II! A letter of thanks from Buckingham Palace proudly adorns her studio, and she will warmly share numerous anecdotes over a cup of tea.

Batik is an ancient fabric-dyeing technique brought from Indonesia by Dutch colonists. This technique has been listed as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity since 2009.

Throughout this day, you will uncover all the secrets of batik art, which requires meticulousness and patience. You will observe the skill of these women with their deft fingers before trying it yourself!

At the end of the day, you will leave with 2 or 3 pieces you have created yourself, along with memories of wonderful encounters, warm human connections, and genuine sharing!

Overnight Stay in Matara

You will be staying at Lakraj Heritage Hotel in a deluxe room.

Breakfast 

It’s time to head towards Colombo. On the way, you will stop in the beautiful colonial city of Galle.

Galle Fort

Discover Galle Fort, a vast 36-hectare site and a symbol of European heritage in Sri Lanka.

 Evening Tuk Tuk Tour in a Popular Neighborhood of Colombo

Around 5 PM, hop into a tuk tuk for a nighttime tour of the bustling Pettah neighborhood. With your guide, visit important religious sites in the area, such as the Shri Ponnambalawaneswaram Kovil Hindu temple, St. Anthony’s Church, and the Red Mosque.

Midway through the tour, we will offer you refreshments (soda or beer) from a city rooftop to enjoy the view of the port. 

The tour concludes with a tasting of street food.

Overnight Stay in Colombo

You will be staying at ME Colombo Hotel.

Breakfast 

During the day, you will head to the airport according to your flight schedule!

You will need to check out of your room by noon. If you have a late departure, it is possible to arrange a late check-out to keep your room until your departure (additional charge applies).

Your driver will drop you off at the airport.