Overview
Discover the wonders of Sri Lanka on this unforgettable 7-day journey through ancient kingdoms, lush highlands, and pristine beaches. Begin your adventure at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll interact with gentle giants, then marvel at the architectural wonder of Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Explore the spiritual heart of Kandy, home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich spice and tea heritage. Your journey concludes in tropical Bentota, where river safaris and turtle conservation await. This carefully crafted itinerary offers the perfect blend of cultural immersion, wildlife encounters, and beach relaxation, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Notes
- ATMs are readily accessible only in certain areas.
- Credit Cards are widely accepted.
- Finding a bank is hasslefree in Sri Lanka.
- The legal drinking age in the Maldives is 18.
- Sinhalese are friendly and known for hospitality.
- Prices are typically cheaper May to November.
Itinerary
Upon your arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be greeted by our tour representative who will assist you to your hotel. Following a relaxing break, you will have the opportunity to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. This sanctuary, established in 1975, is dedicated to rehabilitating and providing a home for injured and orphaned elephants. Here, you can participate in activities such as feeding and bathing these gentle giants alongside local volunteers.
In the evening, you will be accommodated at a luxurious hotel in Dambulla for a comfortable overnight stay.
Following breakfast, embark on a journey to discover Sigiriya, a renowned monument in Sri Lanka often referred to as the Eight Wonders of the World. Visitors flock to this site to marvel at the Sigiriya Fortress, constructed by King Kashyapa in the 5th century. Perched on a monolithic rock, the fortress requires climbing 1200 steps to reach the citadel. In addition to exploring the fortress and its lush gardens, tourists can delve into the museum to gain insights into artefacts and videos related to Sigiriya.
The well-preserved frescoes of life-sized damsels within the fortress are equally renowned. Once you have explored Sigiriya, make your way back to Dambulla.
Spend the night in Dambulla to rest and recharge for the next day’s adventures.
After enjoying your breakfast, it’s time to check out of your hotel and make your way to Kandy. Along the journey, make a stop at the National Spice Gardens in Matale to explore a variety of spices and discover their culinary and medicinal benefits. Here, you have the opportunity to indulge in Ayurvedic treatments, purchase spices, and even participate in a cooking class to deepen your knowledge of spices and their uses.
While in Kandy, your itinerary will include visits to Upper Lake Drive, the Gem Museum, Market Square, and the iconic Temple of Tooth Relic. If you’re fortunate, you may witness the vibrant Kandy Perahara festival. This 9-day celebration culminates in a grand parade featuring the revered tooth relic of Buddha, carried atop an elephant amidst traditional dances and music.
Conclude your day by spending the night in the charming city of Kandy.
Today, you will have the opportunity to discover various attractions in and around Kandy. Your itinerary will include visits to the Royal Botanical Gardens, Kandy Lake, Bahirawakanda Temple, and the Ceylon Tea Museum.
The Royal Botanical Gardens, founded in 1821, span across 147 acres and showcase a diverse range of flora such as orchids, spices, medicinal plants, and palm trees. Legend has it that the garden’s origins date back to 1371 during the reign of King Wickramaabahu III.
After enjoying breakfast, make your way to Bentota today. Consider making a pit stop at Kithulgala, a charming town known for its exciting water sports such as whitewater rafting and abseiling. Kithulgala also boasts attractions such as the historic Belilena Caves, believed to have been inhabited over 32,000 years ago, and the picturesque Handun Ella waterfall. The name Handun Ella is derived from the abundance of sandalwood trees (Handun trees) that surround the area.
Today, you have the option to leisurely explore the surrounding areas or take a boat ride along the Madu River in the 915-hectare Madu Ganga Estuary. This wetland area consists of 64 islands, with Madagaga being recognized as the third Ramsar Wetland. A must-see attraction in Madu Ganga is the Kokaduwa Vihariya. The mangroves found in Madu Ganga serve as a vital habitat for a variety of plant and animal species, including crocodiles, crabs, and diverse fish.
For a unique experience, consider visiting the Marine Turtle Conservation in Kosgoda, dedicated to protecting endangered marine turtle species. Witness the nesting process and the hatching of baby turtles.
Conclude your day by spending the night in Bentota.
Leave Sri Lanka behind as you depart from your hotel and make your way to Colombo International Airport for your return flight home.
Cost
The Cost Includes
- 6 nights accommodation in carefully selected hotels
- Daily breakfast at all hotels
- All ground transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
- Airport transfers on private basis
- Entrance fees to all mentioned attractions
- Services of professional English-speaking guide
- Elephant orphanage visit with feeding experience
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress entrance
- Spice garden visit with cooking demonstration
- Temple of Tooth Relic visit
- Madu River boat safari
- All applicable government taxes and service charges
The Cost Excludes
- International airfare
- Sri Lanka visa fees
- Lunches and dinners
- Personal expenses
- Tips and gratuities
- Travel insurance
- Optional activities (white water rafting, ayurvedic treatments)
- Any services not mentioned in inclusions
FAQs
The best time is during the dry seasons: December to March for the west and south coasts, and April to September for the east coast.
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The climb involves approximately 1200 steps and requires moderate fitness. There are resting points along the way, and the view from the top is absolutely worth the effort.
We use 3-4 star hotels with modern amenities, carefully selected for comfort and location.
We maintain small groups of 12-15 people for a personalized experience.
A 25% deposit secures your booking, with balance due 30 days before travel.





