14 Day Tropical Island Explorer

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Be met at the Colombo International Airport by your Chauffeur Guide who will transfer you to Horathapola Estate, to relax and rejuvenate after your long flight.

This morning go on a walk or peddle around the village visiting a coir factory, virgin coconut factory, village temple and the local market (opened only on Saturdays).

Embark on a journey to the cultural triangle with a stop at Yapahuwa Temple.

Witness the ancient ruins of the sacred city of Anuradhapura. The city’s ruins extend to a vast area and you could explore the magnificent stupas, temples, ponds and sculptures that portrays the rich cultural heritage of the ancient kingdom which was once the epicenter of country’s governance.

Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanweliseya and Isurumuniya are some of the highlights of the city of Anuradhapura.

Make an optional stop at Mihintale, the site which marks the birth of Buddhism to Sri Lanka.

This morning visit the village temple and take part in a ‘Bodhi Pooja’, a Buddhist ceremony conducted to worship Lord Buddha. Meet the Buddhist priest at the temple for a blessing and to know more about Buddhism.

In the afternoon climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the fortified kingdom of King Kassayapa. Pleasure Gardens, Sigiriya Frescos, Graffiti on the Mirror Wall and Lion Staircase are some highlights.

Today you will be heading to Kandy, a beautiful city in the hill country surrounded by misty mountain ranges.

Along the way you can visit Cave Temple in Dambulla, Sri Muthumariamman Temple and Spice Gardens in Matale.

Late afternoon visit Temple of the Tooth Relic. This prime landmark of Kandy, venerated by Buddhists all over the world and one of the most visited sites in Sri Lanka. You could also witness the Pooja ceremony in the evening which is held to bestow blessings.

Make a trip to the three famous temples: Gadaladeniya Raja Maha Viharaya, Lankatilake Viharya, & Embekke Devale.

Take a tour around Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. It was once reserved only for royalty to enjoy a walk in these beautiful gardens is now opened up for public. These gardens are renowned for its collection of orchids.

Drive to Peradeniya station to get on board on the train to the tea country.

It’s considered to be the most scenic train ride in the country. So sit back and enjoy the charms of the beautiful villages as you pass by.

This morning embark on a waterfall trekking.

The property itself has a beautiful cascading waterfall and a trek up to the summit will take about 45 mins and to the base another 45 mins. Take some extra clothing if you would like to have a dip in the cool waters.

Today continuing the journey, set off to Yala.

Optional: You can have an en-route stop at Wellawaya to visit the Buduruwagala Temple. This site depicts the existence of the Mahayana teaching in Sri Lanka. The temple has its unique beauty and is situated in off the beaten track hence it’s not a touristic site which enables you to explore the site peacefully.

Yala National Park is the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. It is the home to many wild flora and fauna which thrives in this dry zone….

Once you get there, enjoy an afternoon game drive in the park.

Early morning set off for the morning safari which is the best time to see the birds.

As you slowly proceed along the winding roads of the park you can witness how the nature comes to live with the dawn of sunlight. Remember to keep your camera ready to capture the mesmerizing events that you are about to witness.

This park is the habitat for many endemic and migratory birds. Watch out for Sri Lanka grey hornbill, Sri Lanka jungle fowl, Sri Lanka wood pigeon, crimson-fronted barbet, black-capped bulbul, blue-tailed bee-eater and brown-capped babbler.

The safari would take around 2 to 3 hours and upon completion return to hotel to freshen up and relax.

Afternoon game drive, the best time to see the wild jumbos who come out with their herds in search of food. Apart from these majestic elephants look out for fine-feathered peacocks and depending on the timing you will also be able to observe the great black bears and agile leopards that shelter in the thick foliage.

Optional: Visit Kataragama Temple devoted to God Kataragama venerated by both Buddhist and Hindus pilgrims. The main festive season of the temple starts along with the Kandy Perahera in July and August. Festivals and daily rituals of Kataragama Temple are quite different and unique from other Buddhists and Hindu ceremonies. The legends related to the temple are fascinating and during your visit remember to discover these interesting facts.

After a morning game drive, your holiday continues along the Southern Coast to the historic city of Galle.

Make a quick stop at Dondra, the southernmost tip of Sri Lanka in the Indian Ocean. Visit the Dondra Lighthouse, one of the tallest in South East Asia.

Enjoy a leisurely walk through the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site accompanied by an interesting personality, who will uncover the vibrant history and culture of Ramparts of Galle.

After the walk have a delicious dinner at a local home.

Peddle leisurely through the countryside and take in the sights, sounds and charms of rural Sri Lanka. It passes through Eluvila Bird Sanctuary and out into the paddy fields sticking to local paths and quiet roads. There is a half way stop for king coconuts served under an ambalama in a private and exclusive jungle garden.

Rest of the day is at leisure.

Heading to the commercial Capital, the city of Colombo.

Visit Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery on your way. A hatchery that helps the conservation of endangered species of turtles. Five out of the seven sea turtle species nest in the Sri Lankan beaches. Get the opportunity to see different species of sea turtles and the chance to feed them.

Join to experience the hustle and bustle of the afternoon in old Colombo town roll into the sunset in a tuk tuk. Cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian Ocean, as the busy 9-5 workday trade winds down and the city lights come alive for yet another evening of activity.

Hope you had a great holiday in Sri Lanka…and sadly it’s time to leave. You will be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.