Ceylon Essence

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Experience the charm of Sri Lanka’s destination on this immersive 13 nights, 14 days journey.

Day 1: Arrival & Negombo Beachside Welcome

Morning:
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where our friendly representative will warmly welcome you to Sri Lanka.
Transfer:
A short drive takes you to Negombo, a coastal town known for its beaches and fishing heritage.
Afternoon:
Relax with a walk along Negombo Beach, visit the colorful local fish market, and explore the town’s colonial canals.
Evening:
Enjoy a seafood dinner by the ocean and watch a tranquil sunset over the Indian Ocean.
Overnight: Negombo

Day 2: Ancient Heritage in Anuradhapura

Morning:
Travel north to Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s most significant ancient capitals.
Afternoon:
Discover the vast ruins of ancient stupas, monasteries, and palaces, including Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, over 2,000 years old.
Evening:
Reflect on the spiritual atmosphere as you settle in amidst the ancient surroundings.
Overnight: Anuradhapura

Day 3: Cultural Treasures of Mihintale & Aukana

Morning:
Climb the stone steps of Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, and enjoy panoramic views from the hilltop monastery.
Afternoon:
Visit the majestic Aukana Buddha Statue, a 12-meter-high sculpture carved from a single granite rock during the 5th century.
Evening:
Return to your hotel and relax in the cultural heartland.
Overnight: Anuradhapura / Sigiriya area

Day 4: Sigiriya Fortress & Rural Village Life

Morning:
Ascend the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and explore its ancient frescoes, mirror wall, and royal gardens atop the rock.
Afternoon:
Take part in a traditional village tour—ride a bullock cart, paddle through a lake in a catamaran, and enjoy an authentic village lunch with local hospitality.
Evening:
Unwind in the peaceful surroundings of the cultural triangle.
Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 5: Dambulla Cave Temple & Kandy City

Morning:
Explore the Dambulla Cave Temple, with its vibrant murals and over 150 Buddha statues housed within five sacred caves.
Transfer:
Drive through lush scenery to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital.
Afternoon:
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world.
Evening:
Enjoy a lively cultural dance show, featuring Kandyan drumming, fire-dancing, and traditional costumes.
Overnight: Kandy

Day 6: Botanical Gardens & Kandy Highlights

Morning:
Stroll through the scenic Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 plant species including rare orchids and massive fig trees.
Afternoon:
Visit a gem museum, browse the Kandy local market, and take a walk around Kandy Lake for views of this hill capital’s peaceful charm.
Evening:
Relax at your hotel or explore Kandy’s vibrant food scene.
Overnight: Kandy

Day 7: Tea Country Journey to Nuwara Eliya

Morning:
Travel through rolling tea-covered hills to Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka’s colonial hill station.
En Route:
Stop at Ramboda Falls, visit a tea plantation and factory, and enjoy a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
Afternoon:
Explore Nuwara Eliya’s colonial town center, Gregory Lake, and charming buildings such as the Grand Hotel and old post office.
Evening:
Enjoy the cool mountain climate and quiet elegance of “Little England.”
Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

Day 8: Scenic Train Ride to Ella

Morning:
Board the train from Nanu Oya to Ella, one of the world’s most scenic railway routes with misty mountains, tea estates, and dramatic landscapes.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Ella and visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, nestled between lush green valleys.
Evening:
Relax in the serene and chilled-out atmosphere of this hill country village.
Overnight: Ella

Day 9: Ella Adventures & Transfer to Yala

Morning:
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak or Ella Rock for panoramic views across Ella Gap.
Afternoon:
Depart for Yala National Park, travelling through changing terrain from hills to dry plains.
Evening:
Arrive and unwind at your lodge located near Yala’s wilderness boundary.
Overnight: Yala / Tissamaharama

Day 10: Safari in Yala National Park

Early Morning:
Set out on a jeep safari in Yala National Park, home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and abundant wildlife.
Late Morning:
Return to your lodge for breakfast and leisure.
Afternoon:
Optional second game drive or rest surrounded by nature.
Evening:
Enjoy a peaceful night under the stars.
Overnight: Yala

Day 11: Visit Buduruwagala & Head to Tangalle

Morning:
Visit Buduruwagala, an ancient site featuring serene rock-cut Buddha statues carved into a cliffside.
Transfer:
Continue to Tangalle, a quiet beach town on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Afternoon:
Relax by the sea or take a walk on the golden sandy beaches.
Evening:
Enjoy a quiet coastal evening with dinner at a beachfront restaurant.
Overnight: Tangalle

Day 12: Southern Coastline to Mirissa Morning:

Morning:
Drive along the southern coastal road, stopping at Dondra Head Lighthouse—Sri Lanka’s southernmost point—or explore a local fish market.
Afternoon:
Arrive in Mirissa and relax on the beach. Optional: Go on a whale-watching tour (seasonal) for a chance to see blue whales and dolphins.
Evening:
Unwind at a beachside café or bar.
Overnight: Mirissa

Day 13: Galle Fort & River Safari in Bentota

Morning:
Travel to Galle and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a charming colonial fortress with Dutch and Portuguese architecture, art galleries, boutiques, and cafes.
Afternoon:
Drive north to Bentota. Enjoy a Madu River boat safari, exploring its lush mangroves, islets, and diverse birdlife.
Evening:
Settle into your coastal resort and enjoy your final night near the ocean.
Overnight: Bentota

Day 14: Colombo City Tour & Departure

Morning:
Travel to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital.
Afternoon:
Take a short city tour visiting highlights such as Independence Square, Gangaramaya Temple, Galle Face Green, and local markets.
Transfer:
Proceed to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure flight, concluding your unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka.