Escape the Ordinary: Dive Deep into Sri Lanka’s Hidden Treasures.
Overview
Route: 1N Colombo – 2N Jaffna – 1N Habarana – 1N Galoya – 2N Passikudha- 1N Kandy – 1N Ella – 2N Galle
Duration: 11 Nights 12 Days
Start Point: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo)
End Point: Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo)
Transfer Included
Stay Included
Meals Included
Sightseeing Included
Tour Highlights
- Embark on a captivating 11-night journey through Sri Lanka's hidden gems:
- Authentic Experiences: Explore ancient Jaffna, trek through Ritigala's wilderness, and engage with locals for village-style meals.
- Wildlife Encounters: Discover Galoya National Park's diverse fauna, including Vedda village visits for cultural immersion.
- Coastal Retreats: Relax on Passikuda's beaches and wander Galle's historic streets.
- Scenic Train Ride: Enjoy breathtaking views on a train journey from Kandy to Ella.
- Cultural Immersion: Experience Kandy's cultural performances and vibrant markets. Uncover Sri Lanka's lesser-known wonders on this unforgettable adventure.
Itinerary
Travel Distance: 32 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 45 Minutes
- Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, the bustling capital city of Sri Lanka.
- Check into your hotel and unwind after your journey. Depending on your arrival time, you might have some free time to explore the immediate surroundings.
- In the evening, venture out to experience the vibrant atmosphere of Colombo's streets, where colonial architecture blends with modern skyscrapers.
- Enjoy a delicious dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic Sri Lankan flavors.
- Overnigh stay at Colombo Hotel
Travel Distance: 403 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 8 Hours
- Wake up in the morning, have a hearty breakfast, and complete the check-out formalities and transfer to Jaffna, located in the northern part of Sri Lanka.
- Arrive in Jaffna and check into your accommodation.
- Begin your exploration of Jaffna with a visit to Jaffna Fort, a historic landmark that offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding areas.
- Explore the Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, an iconic Hindu temple known for its intricate architecture and religious significance.
- Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps strolling along Jaffna's streets and soaking in the local culture.
- Experience traditional Jaffna cuisine for dinner, savoring dishes like crab curry, Jaffna mango curry, and crispy dosas.
- After having your delicious breakfast at hotel dive deeper into Jaffna's rich history and culture with visits to additional attractions such as Nagadeepa Vihara, an ancient Buddhist temple located on an island off the coast of Jaffna.
- After that visit Delft Island: Take a boat trip to Delft Island, located off the coast of Jaffna. Explore the island's unique landscapes, including its limestone formations, wild horses, and ancient ruins such as the Dutch Fort and Baobab tree.
- Explore the Jaffna Public Library, which holds a vast collection of historic documents and manuscripts.
- Immerse yourself in the local culture by visiting bustling markets and artisan workshops, where you can interact with local craftsmen and purchase handmade souvenirs.
- Enjoy another evening of culinary delights, sampling more of Jaffna's traditional dishes at a local restaurant. Return to your hotel and enjoy your delicious dinner.
- Overnight stay at Jaffna Hotel
Travel Distance: 234 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 4 Hours 50 Minutes
- Depart for Ritigala, a remote area known for its tranquil surroundings and ancient ruins, located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka.
- Upon arrival, embark on a guided hike through the Ritigala Strict Nature Reserve, home to the ancient Ritigala Monastery and lush forests.
- Explore the ruins of the monastery, which date back to the 1st century BCE, and learn about its significance in Sri Lanka's history and culture.
- Enjoy a picnic lunch amidst nature, sampling local village food prepared with fresh ingredients sourced from the surrounding area.
- Spend the evening relaxing and soaking in the peaceful ambiance of your accommodation at Habarana hotel which is one hour away from Ritigala
Travel Distance: 21 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 25 Minutes
- Travel to Gal Oya National Park, located in the Ampara District of Sri Lanka's Eastern Province, known for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes.
- Embark on a wildlife safari through Gal Oya National Park where the green meets the blue and the giants is Gal Oya National Park, a hidden gem in the southeast of Sri Lanka!
- A unique park where you may take in all of its natural beauty and fauna, including swimming elephants, via boat safari.
- This national park features a varied terrain that is simply stunning, with mountains, waterfalls, and an artificial lake all encircled by unspoiled jungle where wildlife is allowed to walk freely.
- Elephants swim between the small islands dotted across the man-made reservoir, which is an uncommon sight.
- Bird Watching: Gal Oya National Park is a haven for birdwatchers, with over 150 species of birds recorded in the area. Keep your binoculars handy to spot colorful birds such as the Sri Lankan junglefowl, painted stork, and grey-headed fish eagle.
- Enjoy a village-style lunch prepared with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, giving you a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Spend the evening at your accommodation near Gal Oya National Park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the wilderness.
Travel Distance: 104 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 2 Hours & 10 Minutes
- Depart for Pasikudah, a coastal resort town located on the east coast of Sri Lanka, known for its pristine beaches and clear blue waters.
- Upon arrival, check into your beachfront accommodation and unwind after your journey.
- Take a leisurely stroll along the beach or relax by the pool at your accommodation.
- Indulge in a seafood feast for dinner, sampling the fresh catch of the day prepared by local chefs.
- Spend the evening soaking in the serene ambiance of Pasikudah, with the sound of waves lapping against the shore as your soundtrack.
- Enjoy another day of leisure in Pasikudah, taking advantage of the laid-back atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
- Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities such as snorkeling or diving.
- Enjoy Coral Reef Snorkeling: Discover the colorful reefs situated near Pasikudah’s coast. Take a guided snorkeling excursion to see the diverse array of colorful marine life, which includes sea turtles, tropical fish, and different kinds of coral.
- Opt for an optional excursion to nearby attractions such as Batticaloa Lagoon or Kalkudah Beach, where you can explore more of the area's natural beauty and cultural heritage.
- Spend the evening watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean before enjoying a quiet dinner at a beachside restaurant.
Travel Distance: 104 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 2 Hours & 10 Minutes
- After breakfast travel to Kandy visiting Dambana Wedi Gammanaya where is home to the indigenous Vedda community.
- Come to understand the distinctive way of life and culture of the Vedda people.
- Engage in activities that showcase culture, such guided village excursions, traditional skill displays, and native music and dance performances.
- Take an ethnobotanical trip to discover the depth of the Vedda's knowledge of medicinal plants and forest supplies.
- Indulge in a community prepared, traditional Vedda supper.
- In the afternoon start your Journey to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, located in the Central Province of the island.
- Check in to your accommodation and relax.
- In the evening, attend a cultural show featuring traditional music and dance performances, showcasing Sri Lanka's rich cultural heritage.
- Overnight stay at Kandy Hotel
Travel Distance: 145 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 5 Hours & 30 Minutes
- Take a scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella, considered one of the most beautiful train rides in the world (08.50am or 11.00 am train from Kandy Peradeniya station)
- Marvel at the stunning views of tea plantations, waterfalls, and rolling hills as the train winds its way through the picturesque landscape.
- Arrive in Ella and check into your hotel, located in the heart of this charming hill station.
- In the evening spend some time exploring the charming town of Ella. Stroll along the main street, browse local shops for souvenirs, handicrafts, and tea, and sample delicious Sri Lankan cuisine at one of the many restaurants and cafes.
- Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, sampling traditional Sri Lankan dishes and international cuisine.
- Overnight stay at Ella.
Travel Distance: 197 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 3 Hours & 20 Minutes
- After breakfast explore Ella's attractions, such as the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam's Peak, and Ravana Falls.
- Also, you can visit the Ravana Pool Club for leisure activities such as ziplining through lush forest canopies, providing an adrenaline-pumping adventure amidst breathtaking natural surroundings.
- After that start your journey to Galle, a historic coastal city located in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka, known for its Dutch colonial architecture and UNESCO World Heritage-listed fort.
- Explore the iconic Galle Fort, a well-preserved fortress dating back to the 16th century, which offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.
- Wander through the narrow streets lined with boutique shops, art galleries, and cafes, soaking in the charm and atmosphere of this historic city.
- Visit local markets and sample street food, including Galle's famous "short eats" and seafood delicacies.
- Enjoy a sunset walk along Galle Dutch Hospital Street, a popular dining and entertainment hub within the fort.
- Overnight stay at Galle
- After breakfast spend your final day in Galle exploring more of its hidden gems and local attractions.
- Opt for optional activities such as a visit to Unawatuna Beach, known for its golden sands and turquoise waters, or a boat ride along the Madu River, where you can observe mangrove forests and local wildlife.
- Enjoy a farewell dinner at a seaside restaurant, savoring the flavors of fresh seafood and Sri Lankan cuisine.
- Reflect on your adventures in Sri Lanka and cherish the memories made during your journey.
- Overnight stay at Galle
Travel Distance: 151 KM | Travel Time: Approx. 2 Hours
- Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo for your departure flight, bidding farewell to the enchanting island of Sri Lanka.
- Depart with cherished memories of your off-the-beaten-track adventure through this beautiful and diverse country.
Inclusions
- Meeting and Assistance at the Airport
- 11 Nights’ accommodations based on your hotel selections (from 3-star hotels to luxury accommodations)
- Buffet Breakfast from Day 2 to Day 12 and Buffet Dinner from Day 1 to Day 11
- Sightseeing as mentioned above. (Without entrance fees)
- Transport in a private AC vehicle with the service of an English-speaking chauffeur/ National Guide.
- Local sim cards on request
- One complimentary water bottle (500ml) each person each day
- Value-added tax.