Enchanting History & Culture of Sri Lanka

Arrival: Arrival and Transfer to Negombo (Approx. 30 min Drive).

Destination Overview: Negombo is a major city in Sri Lanka, situated on the west coast and at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon. With a population of over 140,000, it is one of the largest cities in Sri Lanka and serves as an important economic hub for fishing and tourism. The city has a rich history dating back to ancient times when it was known as "Meegamuwa" during the reign of King Kavantissa. It later became an important trading port under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule.

Highlights: Today, Negombo is best known for its beautiful beaches that stretch along its coastline. The calm waters make it ideal for swimming and water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding. The city also has a vibrant fish market where visitors can witness fishermen bringing in their catch of fresh seafood. In addition to its natural beauty, Negombo also boasts several cultural attractions such as temples, churches, and mosques that reflect its diverse religious heritage. One notable landmark is the St. Mary's Church, which dates back to 1874 and features stunning architecture influenced by both Portuguese and local styles.

Dining: Negombo is also famous for its delicious seafood cuisine, with many restaurants offering freshly caught fish dishes cooked in traditional Sri Lankan spices. Overall, Negombo offers visitors a perfect blend of beachside relaxation, cultural experiences, and mouth-watering food.

Activity: Enjoy a relaxing Negombo Canal Tour.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Negombo.

Transfer: After breakfast, begin the drive to Sigiriya (approx. 3 hours 30 mins), located in the heart of the Cultural Triangle.

Elephant Encounter: En route, stop at the Millennium Elephant Foundation. Here, you can get up close and personal with these majestic gentle giants. You may have the opportunity to walk alongside them or assist in their daily bathing rituals—an unforgettable ethical animal encounter.

Safari: Upon arrival in Sigiriya and checking in, prepare for an afternoon adventure. Head to Minneriya National Park for a thrilling Game Drive. Famous for the "Gathering," this park is one of the best places in Asia to see herds of wild Asian elephants grazing around the reservoir as the sun sets.

Overnight: Enjoy a welcome dinner and stay at your hotel in Sigiriya.

Morning Climb: Start your day by climbing the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend the rock to see the ancient palace ruins, the famous frescoes, and the colossal Lion's Paws entrance while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding jungle.

Village Experience: Afterwards, immerse yourself in local culture with a Hiriwadunna Village Expedition. Experience the authentic rural lifestyle of Sri Lanka, followed by a delicious typical Sri Lankan lunch prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

History: In the afternoon, embark on an excursion to the Anuradhapura Ancient City. As Sri Lanka's first capital, this sacred city is filled with well-preserved stupas, ancient pools, and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment.

Overnight: Return to Sigiriya for dinner and overnight stay.

Transfer: After breakfast, depart for the hill capital of Kandy (approx. 3 hours drive).

Spiritual Stop: En route, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Marvel at the intricate statues and ceiling paintings that date back centuries.

Spice Discovery: Continue to a Matale Spice Garden, where you will learn about the island’s world-renowned spices. Enjoy a complimentary 10-minute head, neck, and shoulder massage and a traditional lunch surrounded by lush greenery.

Overnight: Check in to your hotel in Kandy for dinner and overnight stay.

Sacred Temple: Begin the day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), the most sacred Buddhist shrine in Sri Lanka, located within the royal palace complex.

Scenic Drive: Proceed towards Ella (approx. 3 hours 30 mins drive). Stop to admire the cascading waters of Ramboda Falls, a perfect spot for photos.

Iconic Journey: Experience one of the world's most beautiful rail routes with a Scenic Train Journey through the misty tea country (tickets subject to availability).

Architecture: Upon arriving in Ella, visit the famous Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning colonial-era railway viaduct set amidst dense jungle and tea fields.

Overnight: Dinner and overnight stay in Ella.

Adrenaline: Start the morning with a visit to Flying Ravana Adventure Camp for some thrill-seeking activities, or simply admire the breathtaking views of the Ella Gap.

Nature: Visit the majestic Ravana Falls, one of the widest waterfalls in the country, shrouded in legends of the Ramayana.

Coastal Drive: Depart for the historic city of Galle (approx. 3 hours 30 mins drive). Along the southern coast, witness the unique tradition of Stilt Fishermen, balancing on poles to catch fish in the shallow waters.

Overnight: Check in to your hotel in Galle for leisure and overnight stay.

Heritage: After breakfast, explore the Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the ramparts, explore the cobblestone streets lined with colonial Dutch architecture, cafes, and boutiques.

River Safari: Transfer to Colombo. On the way, stop for a Madu River Safari, cruising through mangrove tunnels and visiting small islands.

Wildlife: Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Conservation Centre to see rescued sea turtles and learn about conservation efforts to protect their eggs and hatchlings.

City Life: Arrive in Colombo for an Evening City Tour. Explore the vibrant mix of colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers before checking into your hotel.

Overnight: Stay at a selected hotel in Colombo.