Sinharaja & Wild life tour

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the UNESCO World Heritage sites and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s unique culture, from lush green tea estates to cascading waterfalls in the hills.

The day begins with a scenic drive to the Royal Kingdom of Kurunegala, passing through stunning rice paddy fields and coconut plantations. Be sure to stop at a roadside stall for a refreshing drink of king coconut water, a local favorite.

Kurunegala is home to one of the oldest civilizations in Sri Lanka, built around a massive granite rock. This city once served as one of the medieval capitals of Sri Lanka, and its remnants offer a glimpse into its rich history. Explore the Maraluwawa Temple, the serene Kurunegala Lake, and other significant historical sites with your tour leader.

In the afternoon, you’ll head to your nature-friendly resort in Sigiriya for some rest and relaxation.

ACTIVITIES:

• Visit Maraluwawa Temple
• Explore Kurunegala Lake
• Tour the Royal Kingdom of Kurunegala and its ancient ruins

After breakfast, your journey takes you to the Golden Buddha Statue and the renowned Royal Cave Temple in Dambulla. This complex, the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka, dates back to the 1st century B.C. and features five cave temples housing some of the island's most exceptional historical artwork. Standing 160 meters above the plains, this temple complex offers stunning views of the surrounding area.

Next, you’ll head to the Matale Spice Garden, where you can explore the rich history of Sri Lanka's spice trade and witness firsthand how local spices are cultivated.

Your journey continues to Kandy, the last Sinhalese kingdom, nestled on a plateau surrounded by bio-diverse rainforests and tea plantations. Kandy is home to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. You’ll visit the temple, where the sacred relic of Lord Buddha is housed, before enjoying a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore Kandy’s vibrant city center, including a visit to the Central Market. Then, immerse yourself in Sri Lankan cultural heritage with a traditional dance performance that showcases the island’s vibrant arts.

ACTIVITIES:

• Optional early morning Pidurangala Rock hike
• Visit the Royal Cave Temple in Dambulla
• Explore Matale Spice Garden
• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
• Enjoy a walk around Kandy City Center and visit Kandy Lake
• Experience a traditional Sri Lankan dance and cultural heritage performance

After breakfast, you will embark on a spectacular train journey from Kandy to Ella. This ride is famous for being one of the most scenic hill country train journeys in the world. Your train will depart from Nanu Oya station and wind through lush tea estates, charming villages, vibrant farming fields, and dense forests, offering breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Upon arrival in Ella, you'll find yourself in a serene, eco-friendly village nestled in the mountains. Ella is known for its beautiful natural surroundings, making it a favorite destination for nature lovers. The village is home to the famous Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural marvel constructed without the use of any steel, built entirely from solid rocks, bricks, and cement.

In the afternoon, take a leisurely walk around the village and soak in the peaceful atmosphere. For those interested in hiking, you can trek up to "Little Adam’s Peak" for panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. In the evening, you’ll have the chance to relax and enjoy the lively atmosphere of Ella's village center, with plenty of restaurants and pubs offering local cuisine and entertainment.

ACTIVITIES:

• Scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella
• Explore the village of Ella
• Visit the Nine Arch Bridge
• Optional hike up to Little Adam’s Peak

After breakfast, continue your journey towards Yala National Park, the largest and most diverse national park in southeast Sri Lanka. Known for its rich wildlife, Yala is home to a variety of animals, including sloth bears, leopards, crocodiles, and a wide range of birds. The park consists of two separate sections, each with unique environments. You'll enjoy a thrilling 4×4 jeep safari through the park, looking for leopards lounging in trees, crocodiles by the river, or wild elephants playing in the water.

Following your safari, you'll head towards Weligama, a charming coastal town known for its stunning beaches and clear waters. Previously a hidden gem, Weligama has gained popularity in recent years, now offering a range of restaurants and bars. The beach is ideal for unwinding, with its white sand and coconut palms growing right up to the water's edge, creating a postcard-perfect tropical paradise.

Upon arrival at your hotel, take some time to relax on the beach, sip on a refreshing cocktail or beer under a beach umbrella, and enjoy the soothing sound of the waves. For those seeking adventure, various water sports activities are available, including jet skiing, snorkeling, surfing, and deep-sea fishing.

ACTIVITIES:

• Jeep ride in Yala National Park
• En route to Weligama, visit the Hummanaya Natural Blowhole
• Relax at Weligama Beach
• Optional water sports activities (jet skiing, snorkeling, surfing, fishing, etc.)

After breakfast, depart for the Sinharaja Forest, one of the finest natural rainforests in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This ancient rainforest is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including sambar deer, wild boars, barking deer, monkeys, porcupines, and even the rare leopard. With over 160 bird species, Sinharaja offers a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. Enjoy a guided forest walk where you’ll be immersed in the vibrant ecosystem, experiencing its diverse flora and fauna.

In the afternoon, you will continue to Udawalawe National Park, known for its large population of elephants. Here, you will embark on a thrilling safari ride, with the chance to spot wild elephants in their natural habitat, along with a variety of other animals such as crocodiles, water buffalo, and colorful birds.

ACTIVITIES:

• Sinharaja Forest walk
• Udawalawe National Park safari

You will now head to Mirissa, a stunning seaside destination. Early in the morning, embark on a boat journey to explore the ocean and witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles—whale watching. Mirissa is one of the world’s best spots to see blue whales and dolphins, offering a rare opportunity to witness the largest creatures on the planet. (Please note that whale watching is a seasonal activity.)

Afterward, travel to Hikkaduwa, a beautiful beach destination known for its white sand beaches and coconut palms, creating a postcard-perfect tropical paradise. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach, soaking in the sun, or enjoying a refreshing cocktail under an umbrella.

In the evening, you can unwind and enjoy various water sports activities such as jet skiing, snorkeling, diving, surfing, and deep-sea fishing (optional activities).

ACTIVITIES:

• Whale Watching boat ride (seasonal)
• Relaxing on the beach
• Optional water sports activities: Jet Skiing, Snorkeling, Diving, Surfing, Fishing, Deep-Sea Fishing

After breakfast, you will head to Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling capital, with a rich history that dates back to the fifth century. Once a key port city in the East-West maritime trade, it has evolved into a vibrant, modern metropolis. The city’s unique atmosphere, with its mix of tradition and modernity, draws both locals and tourists.

Explore the city’s top landmarks, including the Red Mosque, Gangarama Temple, and Independent Square. Enjoy a leisurely walk around Colombo’s bustling city center and take in the lively streets, local markets, and modern shopping malls.

You may choose to stop at one of the city’s famous restaurants for a memorable meal to end your Sri Lankan adventure. Afterward, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight, or if you prefer, you can extend your stay at a cozy beach resort in Bentota or Negombo.

ACTIVITIES:

• Visit Colombo's top landmarks: Red Mosque, Gangarama Temple, Independent Square
• Walk around Colombo City Center
• Time for your return flight or extend your stay at a beach resort