
Our airport representative will meet you at the arrival terminal to welcome you to the tour. We provide you with a knowledgeable, friendly, multilingual guide and transportation in excellent-condition, luxurious, and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles. (Drivers are available on request in any language.) You will be met by our smart representative and transferred to your hotel in Negombo Beach. Known as "Little Rome" because of its strong Catholic influence, Negombo was transited through Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial rule over the centuries. Today's sandy beaches, welcoming locals, winding canals, and colourful streets make it the perfect place to enjoy your first evening in Sri Lanka.
After dropping you off at the hotel, your driver will take you northeast to Sigiriya, which is in the Central Province. This famous landmark, which the locals refer to as the "eighth wonder of the world," is very significant to Sri Lankan culture. The remnants of an old fortification constructed in the late fifth century can be seen atop the rocky monolith that stands high above the verdant jungle. As you visit the UNESCO-listed monument, take your time to take in the stunning water fountains, boulder gardens, frescoes, mirror walls, and castle relics. Translating to "Lion Rock," the name alludes to the custom of guests starting their last ascent by going through a lion's gaping jaws and throat.
The spectacular rock temple of Pidurangala, which is near to the more well-known Sigiriya, was once the location of an old monastery and dates back to the third century BCE. Originally housing more than 500 monks, you will see the enormous reclining Buddha statue within this morning and go to the summit for amazing views of the surrounding valley and Sigiriya Rock nearby. Next, take a guided bike tour through the winding roads and rice terraces of Habarana to see life in the countryside. Before pedalling to a peaceful lake where you may take a picturesque boat ride out onto the water, you'll get the opportunity to engage with local farmers and learn about rural life in Sri Lanka. After that, cycle around the lake while keeping a watch out for any unusual birds.
Today, your driver will come and take you to Kandy, which is the friendly entry point to the Hill Country of Sri Lanka, located to the south. Visit the Dambulla UNESCO World Heritage Site when travelling. Some of the best religious artefacts in the nation can be found in this hallowed cave temple complex, which was established in the first century BCE. Explore caves to see magnificent murals, gilded interiors, and an amazing collection of sacred statues, including a 14-meter (47-foot) golden Buddha lying down. Then ascend to the steep cliff tops of the temple for views across the surrounding farmland and forests. Proceed to Kandy and then spend the day exploring the famous Royal Palace situated on the shores of Lake Kandy. Explore the gardens, shrines, and temples within the palace before seeing Sri Dalada Maligawa, the temple housing the Sacred Tooth Relic, which is considered its crown jewel. The most significant Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka is housed in this elaborate temple complex, which dates back to the 16th century, and contains a tooth belonging to the Buddha. When night falls, you'll experience some amazing performances of traditional Sri Lankan music and dance during an interesting cultural entertainment.
This morning, take a scenic transfer that takes you into the heart of Sri Lanka's tea region. Once there, relax in a luxurious lodge in the beautiful hill village of Ella. Stop at Lipton Seat, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic sights. From this vantage point, Scottish tea lord Sir Thomas Lipton used to watch over his expanding empire. Today, you can get comparable views across tea plantations and emerald hills. Stop by the nearby tea estate to discover more about the nation's most famous export. You can tour its factory and fields, and you can end your stay with a cup of Ceylon tea.
You have the day to explore the falls at your own pace. A driver with language proficiency is available to assist with any transfers required. With wonderful hikes that lead past tea farms to temples and waterfalls, this charming hilltop village is the perfect starting point for leisurely exploration. If you're feeling brave, walk across the railway tracks and tea estates to reach the rock of the falls for stunning views of the surrounding area, or take a scenic walk to Ravana Falls for a short dip in the cool waters.
Let's go to the beach now! Your driver will get you this morning from your luxury hotel and take you south to the well-known beach town of Unawatuna. While travelling, make a stop in the UNESCO-listed city of Galle, where you can visit the 300-year-old Dutch fortifications that are encircled by the Indian Ocean on three sides. You'll have time to peruse the city's stately homes, museums, old mosques, and Dutch-colonial buildings after taking a tour of its past. Explore the streets and find fashionable boutique hotels, stores, and cafés run by local and foreign designers and artists. You have the rest of the day to relax on Unawatuna's white-sand beach. The blue sea here is calm and pleasant, protected by an offshore coral reef, making it ideal for swimming and water sports. For a more active afternoon, take a boat ride to see whales and dolphins, visit a neighbouring sea turtle farm and hatchery, or climb the Japanese Peace Pagoda for sweeping views of the coastline. In the evening, watch a brilliant sunset over the Indian Ocean from your luxurious accommodations.