Essence of Lanka

Upon your arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by your chauffeur-guide outside the lounge. They will then transfer you to your hotel in Negombo. Just a short 30-minute drive away.

Once at the hotel, check in and take some time to rest and unwind.

Overnight in Negombo

Sri Lanka is a stunning island where natural beauty and cultural heritage blend effortlessly. The mist-covered tea plantations in the highlands offer breathtaking views, while its rainforests are home to exotic wildlife like elephants and leopards. From tranquil forests to golden beaches, the island’s diverse landscapes captivate at every turn. With warm hospitality, ancient temples, colonial architecture, and vibrant traditions, Sri Lanka offers a perfect mix of adventure, history, and local charm, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking both beauty and cultural richness.

In the morning, head to Negombo to explore the vibrant fish market and the town. The boats that set out for fishing the previous night will be returning to shore, carrying their fresh catch. Witness the bustling atmosphere of the market, where enthusiastic sellers and fishermen eagerly showcase their harvest, negotiating and offering a wide variety of seafood. It’s a lively and authentic experience that highlights the heart of Negombo’s fishing culture.

Negombo is a coastal town in Sri Lanka, known for its vibrant fishing industry and picturesque beaches. The Negombo Fish Market, one of the largest in Sri Lanka, offers a bustling atmosphere where fresh fish, including tuna, prawns, and crabs, are sold daily. It provides a fascinating insight into the local fishing culture, with boats unloading their catch at dawn and vendors negotiating prices. The town itself features a mix of colonial architecture, historical churches, and a relaxed, tropical vibe, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking both cultural and natural experiences. The combination of the fish market, beautiful beaches, and lively atmosphere makes Negombo a unique and charming spot to visit.

Return back to the hotel and afternoon at leisure.

Overnight in Negombo

Morning proceed to Dambulla to explore the famous Golden Cave Temple. Approx. 3 hour’s journey

The Dambulla Cave Temple is a stunning complex of five cave temples located in central Sri Lanka. Known for its impressive collection of ancient Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of Buddha, it is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The caves are carved into a massive rock, offering both a spiritual and scenic experience, with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The temple is one of the best-preserved cave complexes in Sri Lanka and a significant site for Buddhist heritage.

Afterward, proceed to the hotel and check in.

Dinner & overnight in Habarana

Early morning (0530am) proceed to climb Sigiriya rock fortress. Approx. 20 minutes’ drive

The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is an ancient palace complex perched atop a massive granite rock, rising 200 meters above the surrounding jungle. A UNESCO World Heritage site, Sigiriya is one of Sri Lanka's most awe-inspiring landmarks, attracting visitors from all over the world. This extraordinary site was once a royal residence and a stronghold, believed to have been built in the 5th century by King Kassapa I. The fortress features a remarkable combination of natural beauty, intricate design, and cultural significance.

The journey to the summit of Sigiriya is an unforgettable experience, with the path leading visitors past spectacular frescoes that depict celestial maidens, as well as the iconic Lion’s Gate, which marks the entrance to the palace ruins. The lion’s paws, carved into the rock, still stand as a testament to the grandeur of the fortress, even though the rest of the lion structure has largely eroded over time.

Sigiriya is not only renowned for its historical and architectural significance but also for its deep cultural legacy. It is a symbol of Sri Lanka's rich heritage, blending art, architecture, and nature in a way that continues to captivate travelers, historians, and photographers alike. Whether exploring the ancient ruins, marveling at the stunning frescoes, or simply enjoying the serene beauty of the surroundings, Sigiriya remains an unforgettable highlight of any visit to Sri Lanka.

Afterward, return to the hotel to enjoy a delicious breakfast and take some time to relax and rest.

After having a slow breakfast enjoy your time at the hotel. Around 1100am proceed to enjoy a village trek

Hiriwadunna Village, located in the scenic Habarana area, offers a peaceful immersion into traditional Sri Lankan village life. Begin with a jeep ride to enjoy the fresh air and capture stunning views.

Bullock Cart Ride:

Travel through village paths in a charming bullock cart, heading towards Hiriwadunna Lake. Tractor rides are also available as an alternative.

Catamaran Boat Ride:

Enjoy a traditional catamaran boat ride on Hiriwadunna Lake, taking in views of Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks. You may even try rowing or receive a hand-crafted souvenir from the boatman.

Village House Activities & Lunch:

Visit a local home, explore paddy fields and gardens, and climb a tree house. Enjoy a traditional meal prepared with fresh, hand-picked vegetables and witness a demonstration of traditional cooking and skills like crafting roofs from coconut leaves. Afterward, return to the hotel.

Return to the hotel and unwind, relaxing for the rest of the evening.

Indulge in a pre-dinner cocktail by the lake or poolside, featuring a 01 hour complimentary local gin or arrack, along with three delicious passed appetizers, courtesy of Travel Talk. Dinner & overnight in Dambulla

Morning proceed to Kandy via Matale. Visit a spice garden in Matale to learn about Ceylon spices. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey

Sri Lanka is famous for its aromatic and flavorful spices, many of which are integral to its cuisine. Key spices include cinnamon, known for its sweet and delicate flavor, cardamom with its aromatic and slightly sweet notes, and cloves, which add warmth to dishes. Turmeric gives a rich golden color and earthy flavor to curries, while black pepper is used for its heat. Other popular spices include coriander, fennel, mustard seeds, ginger, and nutmeg, all contributing to the island’s vibrant and diverse culinary tradition.

Next, travel to Kandy and in the afternoon, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic. Afterward, enjoy a captivating traditional cultural show, showcasing Kandy's rich heritage. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey

The Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites, believed to house a tooth relic of the Buddha. Located within the royal palace complex, the temple is an important pilgrimage destination and a UNESCO World Heritage site. The temple is known for its stunning architecture, peaceful atmosphere, and its role in Sri Lanka's religious and cultural history. Visitors can witness daily rituals and ceremonies, making it a truly spiritual and historical experience.

Proceed and check in to the hotel.

Dinner & overnight in Kandy

After an early breakfast proceed to Nanu-Oya railway station via Nuwara Eliya to catch the train up to Ella. Approx. 2 hour’s journey

On route visit a tea factory to learn about Ceylon tea.

Ceylon Tea is one of the world’s most renowned teas, celebrated for its bright, refreshing flavor and rich aroma. Grown in the lush, high-altitude tea plantations of Sri Lanka, Ceylon tea comes in various varieties, including black, green, and white, each offering a unique taste profile. The tea is known for its crisp, citrusy notes, and is often enjoyed with milk or as a refreshing iced beverage. With a long history of cultivation dating back to the 19th century, Ceylon tea is deeply woven into Sri Lanka’s cultural and economic fabric, making it a symbol of the island’s natural beauty and heritage.

Afterward, continue your journey by boarding the train to Ella. A packed snack lunch, along with a refreshing fruit juice, will be provided for you to enjoy as you take in the stunning views along the way. Approx. 3 hour’s journey

The Nanu Oya to Ella train ride is one of Sri Lanka's most scenic railway journeys. This picturesque route takes travelers through lush green tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages. It offers breathtaking views of waterfalls and allows passengers to experience the tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country.

Coach will be waiting for you at the Ella train station to transfer you to your hotel in Ella.

Dinner & overnight in Ella

Morning start your lite trekking to “Little Adam’s Peak”

Little Adam's Peak is a popular hiking destination in Ella, Sri Lanka, known for its stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, valleys, and tea plantations. The relatively easy trek to the summit offers breathtaking vistas, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. The hike is often considered a more accessible alternative to the nearby Adam's Peak, providing a rewarding experience with minimal effort.

After descending, enjoy a short tuk-tuk ride to visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge.

The Nine Arches Bridge, located near Ella, Sri Lanka, is a stunning colonial-era railway bridge renowned for its impressive architecture and picturesque setting. Spanning a lush jungle valley, the bridge features nine graceful arches and is a popular spot for photography. It offers visitors a unique opportunity to witness trains passing over this historic structure while surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty.

Return to the hotel to refresh and unwind. Then, begin your local cookery demonstration, where the chef will take you to a nearby market to explore fresh local vegetables or pluck organic produce from the hotel garden. You’ll learn to prepare a traditional dish using these ingredients, guided by the chef's expertise.

Enjoy the cooking session while taking in breathtaking mountain views, sipping on a glass of wine or beer. For lunch, savor the delicious meal you’ve prepared yourself.

In the afternoon, relax at the hotel or take a leisurely walk into Ella town to enjoy its cozy, charming atmosphere.

Dinner & overnight in Ella

In the morning, proceed to Udawalawe to visit the Elephant Transit Home. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey

On route stop near Ravana falls to take a quick snap for your Instagram.

The Elephant Transit Home, located in Udawalawe, Sri Lanka, is a rehabilitation center dedicated to orphaned and injured elephants. The facility cares for young elephants with the aim of eventually releasing them back into the wild. Visitors can observe the elephants being fed and playing in a natural, protected environment, making it a unique and heartwarming experience for animal lovers.

Enjoy an elephant feeding session and spend some time with the baby elephants. Afterward, proceed to Yala and check in to your hotel. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey

Dinner & overnight in Yala

Early in the morning, embark on a thrilling wildlife safari in Yala National Park.

Yala National Park, located in the southeast of Sri Lanka, is one of the country’s most famous wildlife reserves. Known for its diverse ecosystems, including forests, wetlands, and grasslands, it is home to a wide range of animals, including Sri Lanka's iconic leopards, elephants, and numerous bird species. The park offers an exciting safari experience, allowing visitors to observe wildlife in their natural habitat while exploring its stunning landscapes.

Return to hotel and breakfast at the hotel and refresh yourself.

Dinner & overnight in Yala

Morning proceed to Galle. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey.

Galle Fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, the fort is a stunning blend of European and South Asian architecture. Surrounded by picturesque ocean views, it features cobbled streets, colonial-era buildings, museums, boutiques, and cafes. The fort is a vibrant hub, offering visitors a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past while showcasing a charming, laid-back atmosphere.

Proceed to Hikkaduwa and check in to the hotel.

Proceed to Hikkaduwa and check in to the hotel.

Full day leisure by the beach or pool.

Dinner & overnight in Hikkaduwa

Afternoon proceed to Colombo and city tour in Colombo. Approx. 1.5 hour’s journey.

A Colombo city tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the capital of Sri Lanka, blending rich history, modern attractions, and vibrant culture. Highlights include visits to iconic landmarks like the Gangaramaya Temple, the Colombo National Museum, and the bustling Pettah Market. Explore the scenic Galle Face Green, the colonial architecture of the Old Dutch Hospital, and the beautiful Beira Lake. With its mix of tradition and contemporary life, a Colombo city tour provides a well-rounded experience of this dynamic city.

Overnight in Colombo

Morning leisure at the hotel. Guaranteed late checkout till 0800pm.

Evening proceed to Airport to connect with the departure flight. Approx. 1 hour’s journey