Best of Sri Lanka in Cultural Sites, Tea Hills & Beaches
Embark on an 8-day adventure through Sri Lanka, exploring ancient wonders in Sigiriya and Dambulla, the cultural heart of Kandy, the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, the wildlife of Yala, and the beaches of Bentota.
Itinerary
Day 1
Discover Sigiriya's iconic Lion Rock fortress and Dambulla's ancient cave temples, both UNESCO World Heritage Sites, offering breathtaking views, historic frescoes, and rich cultural heritage.
Day 1: Sigiriya and Dambulla
Morning:
Arrive in Sigiriya.
Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the frescoes and take in the panoramic views from the top.
Afternoon:
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Travel to Dambulla (approximately 30 minutes drive).
Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its stunning Buddha statues and cave paintings.
Evening:
Check-in at a hotel in Sigiriya or Dambulla.
Dinner and relax at the hotel.
Day 2
Explore Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, serene Kandy Lake, and lush Royal Botanical Gardens, offering a rich blend of history and nature.
Day 2: Kandy
Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Kandy (approximately 2.5 hours drive).
Afternoon:
Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist site.
Explore the Kandy Lake and take a leisurely walk around it.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening:
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
Check-in at a hotel in Kandy.
Dinner and enjoy a cultural dance show.
Day 3
Experience Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England," with its cool climate, picturesque tea plantations, colonial architecture, and serene landscapes, offering a tranquil retreat in the heart of Sri Lanka.
Day 3: Nuwara Eliya
Morning:
Breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 2.5 hours drive), known as "Little England" for its cool climate and colonial architecture.
Afternoon:
Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about tea production and sample some fresh Ceylon tea.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Evening:
Explore Victoria Park and Gregory Lake.
Check-in at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Dinner and relax at the hotel.
Day 4
Explore Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's premier wildlife sanctuary, renowned for its diverse fauna, including leopards, elephants, and exotic birds, set amidst stunning landscapes and natural beauty.
Day 4: Yala National Park
Morning:
Early breakfast at the hotel.
Travel to Yala National Park (approximately 5 hours drive).
Afternoon:
Check-in at a safari lodge near the park.
Lunch at the lodge.
Evening:
Afternoon jeep safari in Yala National Park, home to a variety of wildlife including leopards, elephants, and birds.
Return to the lodge for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5
Discover Bentota, a tropical paradise on Sri Lanka's southwest coast, known for its pristine beaches, thrilling water sports, serene rivers, and vibrant marine life, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Days 5 & 6: Bentota
Day 5 Morning:
Breakfast at the lodge.
Travel to Bentota (approximately 4.5 hours drive).
Day 5 Afternoon & Evening:
Check-in at a beach resort in Bentota.
Relax on the beach.
Dinner at the resort.
Day 6:
Enjoy a full day of beach activities and water sports such as snorkeling, diving, or jet-skiing.
Visit the Bentota Turtle Hatchery.
Explore the Brief Garden or Lunuganga Estate.
Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.
Day 6
Day 6:
Enjoy a full day of beach activities and water sports such as snorkeling, diving, or jet-skiing.
Visit the Bentota Turtle Hatchery.
Explore the Brief Garden or Lunuganga Estate.
Dinner and overnight stay at the resort.
Day 7
Explore Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital, where modern skyscrapers meet colonial charm. Enjoy vibrant markets, historic temples, lush parks, and a dynamic culinary scene in this cosmopolitan city.
Day 7: Colombo City
Morning:
Breakfast at the resort.
Travel to Colombo (approximately 2 hours drive).
Afternoon:
Check-in at a hotel in Colombo.
Lunch at a local restaurant.
Visit key attractions such as the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, and the Colombo National Museum.
Evening:
Explore the Galle Face Green and enjoy the sunset.
Dinner at a restaurant in the city.
Return to the hotel for the night.
Day 8
Day 8: Departure
- Morning:
- Breakfast at the hotel.
- Last-minute shopping or sightseeing.
- Check-out from the hotel.
- Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.
