DAY 01: AIRPORT – NEGOMBO

(Travel Time Airport to Negombo – Approx: 30 mins)

Upon arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, after clearing immigration & customs, proceed to the General Arrivals Hall.  Here, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative from Lanka Experience’s local partner and transferred to your hotel in Negombo.

Overnight Stay at Heritance Negombo – Deluxe Room – BB (5 star)

(Note: Dinner is NOT included tonight).

MEALS: B

DAY 02: NEGOMBO – DAMBULLA – SIGIRIYA 

(Travel Time Negombo to Dambulla – Approx: 3 hrs)

(Travel Time Dambulla to Sigiriya – Approx: 40 mins)

After breakfast this morning, check out and travel to Sigiriya. En route, you may visit the famous ‘Dambulla Cave Temple’.

Fitness Level: Moderate

In the city of Dambulla lies a hub which has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today, an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in magnificently constructed 5 cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country’s economic and cultural uplifting.

On completion proceed to the hotel and check-in.

Later visit the World Heritage listed Sigiriya rock fortress and climb the rock.

Note: Sigiriya Rock fortress climb involve some walking, often across uneven ground and in areas of heat and humidity. Please stay well hydrated and wear comfortable walking shoes. 

The 5th century rock citadel of King Kashyapa and World Heritage Site – Sigiriya – doesn’t only boasts of ancient Sri Lankan engineering & urban planning supremacy but also acclaims to be one of the finest monuments of art & culture. Step through the gigantic ‘Lion Paws’ – overlooking the symmetrical royal gardens below – to comprehend the absolute splendor that once dominated this rock fortress. Surrounded by ramparts & moats the Lion Rock – resembling the mythological ‘City of Gods’ – is coated by frescoes that relate to Gupta-style paintings found in Ajanta caves of India. Walk in the shade of an eminent ‘mirror wall’ embracing the Western face of Sigiriya representing an artistic hundred meters laminated with graffiti. Wander into the well-fabricated museum downstairs for an epic journey of yesteryears to realise how the citadel floated above citizens with the castle, ponds and irrigation systems that pumped water right onto its summit with an ingenious hydraulic system describing a
a colossal masterpiece of the great king which remained a wonder in Asia for centuries.

Upon completion, return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. 

Overnight Stay at Covanro, Sigiriya – Standard Room – HB (5 star)

MEALS: B/D

DAY 03: SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA – SIGIRIYA 

(Travel Time Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa – Approx: 1 hr. each way)

After breakfast, we will proceed to Polonnaruwa for a guided tour of the Ancient Kingdom.

Rising with the decline of Anuradhapura, the city of Polonnaruwa – medieval capital & crown jewel of King Parakramabahu.It – remains undisputed proof of the ancient culture and heritage blended with religious beliefs. Walk across its scattered walls of the World Heritage Site – blessed by stupas, resting Buddha statues, irrigation canals and fantastically carved Hindu sculptures while observing the relic house – Watadage which features many beautiful stone carvings. A closer look reveals the subtle Hindu influence on architecture and statues found in Polonnaruwa. Take time to sit by the side of Galviharaya and observe the absolute beauty gushing out of every bend of its huge Buddhist statues. Nissankamalla Council Chamber is, however, a beauty to behold with its swaying pillars reminding us of a powerful kingdom that rests beside Parakrama Samudraya – a sea of Parakramabahu a true masterpiece of irrigation!

We will then proceed to the Aliya Resort where you will dine on a sumptuous authentic Sri Lankan meal.

You will now be able to enjoy the rest of the day at leisure at your next resort hotel.

Overnight Stay at Covanro, Sigiriya – Standard Room – HB (5 star)

MEALS:B/D

DAY 04: SIGIRIYA – KANDY 

(Travel Time Sigiriya to Kandy – Approx: 2 hrs 30 mins)

After breakfast this morning we will check out of the hotel and travel to Kandy where we will begin our day with a guided city tour of Kandy.

Last ruled by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe before it was brought under British rule in 1815, the World Heritage Site and last royal capital of Sri Lankan kings – crafts an array of culture, history, and heritage in the minds of visitors across the globe. Experience an ancient Kandyan legacy engraved around its crown jewel, the temple of the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. A stroll across this small lakeside town cradled among the misty hills – will feature the Kandy City Centre – an inviting city noted for world-class brands, a traditional bazaar, an arts & crafts centre and a gem museum. The vibrance of the Kandy Market is excellent for those interested in photography as an integral part of our food immersion tour. 

Fine tune you’re evening by stepping to the beat of traditional music & drumming amplified by a cultural show enhancing the rich and vibrant culture of the Wonder of Asia, Sri Lanka.

Upon completion check-in at the hotel and relax.

Overnight Stay at The Radh – Standard Room – HB (4 star boutique hotel).

MEALS: B/D

DAY 05: KANDY – PERADENIYA – KANDY 

(Travel Time Kandy to Peradeniya – Approx: 30 mins each way)

After breakfast this morning we will visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens.

First developed as a pleasure garden under royalty and later harmonized by the British, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya is located just 4 miles from Kandy – is a flourishing national asset in the Wonder of Asia. Walk into this stunning 147-acre parkland you will find beautifully manicured lawns, pavilions and an octagon conservatory amongst other flora and fauna. Towards the north of the entrance, there is a cafeteria where we can stop to taste some of the teas that Sri Lanka is well-known for. For orchid lovers, different varieties and colour are abundant.

From here we experience a cookery demonstration with Suzie Ratwatte.

A Sri Lankan cookery showcases the rich and diverse culinary traditions of the country. Our expert chef demonstrates how to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using a variety of aromatic spices, fresh herbs, and traditional techniques. Participants can learn to make popular dishes like rice and curry, hoppers, and sambols as we delve into the unique flavours and cultural significance behind each recipe. The demonstration will allow you to ask questions and taste the dishes prepared.

On completion, we will return to the hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight Stay at The Radh – Standard Room – HB (4-star boutique hotel).

MEALS: B/D

DAY 06: KANDY – NANU OYA – NUWARA ELIYA  

(Travel Time Kandy to Nanu Oya by Train – Approx: 3 – 4 hrs.)

(Travel Time Nanu Oya station to Nuwara Eliya – Approx: 30 mins.)

After breakfast and check out, we will proceed to Kandy train station for our next experience.  The tour vehicle will drop you off at the Kandy Railway Station in time for the Train to Nanu Oya.

This train ride gives you an unparalleled view and penetrating glimpse of both scenic beauty and culture of the hill country so have your camera at the ready. The main luggage will be transported by the tour vehicle so have any small items that you may require with you. 

(Train Tickets are strictly subjected to availability & will be confirmed only 21 Days prior to the date of travel in the train)

Once the train has arrived, we will proceed to your hotel with a stop along the way at a tea plantation/factory.

Sri Lanka Tea and Tourism are words that cannot be separated. Take a tour to the cold & misty hills for an ultimate tea tour covering lush green blankets of tea plantations. If you do not wish to walk some of the plantations, you may just visit the factory where you can observe the processing of a prestigious brand of Ceylon Tea. The rich tradition is as it has been since tea was first planted,
The hissing and swishing of machines bring out the heavenly scent as the tea is processed. You may like to try one of the blends and perhaps purchase the product to take home. 

We will now continue to your hotel for check-in.
In the afternoon we will enjoy High Tea at the Grand Hotel.

Overnight Stay at Jetwing St Andrews – Superior Room – HB (4 Star – A restored Georgian Style country mansion from British Colonial era).

MEALS: B/D

DAY 07: NUWARA ELIYA – YALA 

(Travel Time Nuwara Eliya to Yala – Approx: 4 hrs 30 mins)

After breakfast and check out we will travel to Yala where we will embark on a safari at Yala National Park.

The park is a vast 1259 Km2 with its glorious scenes around vast grasslands and is rightfully the heartland of wildlife in Sri Lanka. As your jeep enters through the giant gates of Yala, you are not only stepping into the most visited national park in the country but also the lands of a civilization that thrived during the reign of Sri Lankan kings. You name it, and Yala has it. Herds of elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, jackals and an extensive birdlife as well as the highest density of leopards in the world roam the park. Yala is considered to be one of the finest destinations in the country. Today provides us with an exhilarating experience blended with the cries of wilderness under the tropical sun.

We can understand if you don’t want to leave the park but you will now have the rest of the day at leisure to perhaps look at the photos you have taken during the experience. 

Overnight Stay at Cinnamon Wild – Jungle Chalet – HB.  (4-star lodge-style hotel nestled on the edge of Yala National Park, offering an immersive wildlife experience).

MEALS: B/D

DAY 08: YALA 

After an early breakfast this morning we will introduce you to the pole fishermen. This ancient way of fishing is a sight to behold at the Weerawila Lake. 

Fishing at Weerawila Lake offers a tranquil and rewarding experience surrounded by nature. This serene freshwater lake located in southern Sri Lanka, is home to a variety of fish species, making it a perfect spot for both seasoned anglers and beginners. The calm waters and picturesque setting provide an unforgettable escape into the heart of Sri Lanka’s natural landscape.

From here we will travel to a nearby facility to see how the experts make perfect buffalo curd*. Once we have finished this excursion, you have the chance to enjoy a Sri Lankan pottery experience and make your own pot on a traditional wheel.

*Curd is obtained by coagulating milk in a sequential process called curdling. It can be a final dairy product or the first stage in cheesemaking. The coagulation can be caused by adding rennet, a culture, or any edible acidic substance such as lemon juice or vinegar, and then allowing it to coagulate.

From here we will return you to your hotel.

Overnight Stay at Cinnamon Wild – Jungle Chalet – HB 

MEALS: B/D

DAY 09: YALA – AHANGAMA – WELIGAMA

(Travel Time Yala to Ahangama – Approx: 2 hrs 45 mins)

(Travel Time Ahangama to Weligama – Approx: 30 mins)

Today we will travel to Weligama. 

En-route we will see the famous stilt fishermen at Ahangama. 

On arrival at Weligama, you will check in at the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight Stay at Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa – Standard Room – HB (5 star)

MEALS: B/D

DAY 10: WELIGAMA – MIRISSA – WELIGAMA  

(Travel Time Weligama to Mirissa – Approx: 30 mins)

This morning after breakfast take time to enjoy your surroundings. Any journey should never be rushed so we would like you to relax for a while and enjoy the scenery. 

Later in the afternoon enjoy a village bicycle ride and a visit to a local cinnamon plantation. If you are not a rider, we will arrange alternate transportation. Spices are an integral part of Sri Lankan cuisine so this opportunity to see how this important step in gastronomy begins. The farm grows many different spices and you will find this information valuable when designing your own meals at home. 

Overnight Stay at Weligama Bay Marriott Resort & Spa – Standard Room – HB (5 star).

MEALS: B/D

DAY 11: WELIGAMA – COLOMBO 

(Travel Time Weligama to Colombo – Approx: 2 hrs 40 mins)

Today after breakfast we begin our leisurely drive to the capital Colombo. On arrival, we hope you will enjoy the “Kimbula Banis” baking experience. One of the best parts is the ‘taste testing’. 

Upon completion, we will embark on a guided city tour of Colombo.

The throbbing metropolis that is Colombo, is located in the West. It is not only the country’s commercial capital, but also the turbine that impels above 50% of the national GDP flanking Colombo’s fancy urban development effort. We will drive along the streets edging the crystal white Racecourse – horse racing hub in 1893 and World War II airstrip. The new Colombo Port City, an offshore city featuring parks, commercial complexes & even an F1 track is both innovative and exciting. Travel along the Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards the ‘Arcade’ facing a historic way post, the Independence Square. Catch the scent of incense on the breeze while listening to the chiming bells of Gangarama temple. The evening reveals Colombo’s nightlife with nightclubs and Casinos. You may like to visit the exhibition at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) or take in a light opera.

Overnight Stay at Galle Face Hotel – Regency Room – HB (Colonial style, Heritage Hotel built by the British in 1864)

MEALS: B/D

DAY 12: COLOMBO – AIRPORT

(Travel Time Colombo to Airport – Approx: 45 – 60 mins)

This morning after breakfast you will have a chance for any last-minute shopping or simply relax and perhaps indulge in a spa treatment to ready you for your onward flight.