16Days Splendors of Sri Lanka
Price from NZD 3951 / AUD 3556 per person on twin sharing basis
Colombo/Negombo – Sigiriya – Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Arugam Bey – Yala – Mirissa – Gale - Colombo
Embark on a 16-day adventure through Sri Lanka, starting with the bustling capital city of Colombo or the charming coastal town of Negombo. Witness the ancient marvels of Sigiriya and the cultural hub of Kandy, before immersing yourself in the picturesque tea country of Nuwara Eliya and the scenic beauty of Ella. Head to the east coast and surf the waves of Arugam Bay, followed by a wildlife safari in Yala and beach relaxation in Mirissa and Galle. Finally, return to Colombo to end your journey through this beautiful island nation.
Day 1: Colombo
Arrival at Colombo airport and transfer to your hotel in Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo – Sigiriya (B)
Morning proceed to Sigiriya check in at hotel, afternoon visit Sigiriya is one of the most valuable historical monuments of Sri Lanka. Referred by locals as the Eighth Wonder of the World, this ancient palace and fortress complex has significant archaeological importance and attracts thousands of tourists every year. It is probably the most visited tourist destination in Sri Lanka.
Day 3: Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya (B)
Today tour of Polonnaruwa ancient city, Commence exploring one of the better kept ruins of ancient Ceylon - the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa and end the day with a boat ride in Parakrama Samudraya
Day 4: Sigiriya - Minneriya – Sigiriya (B)
Today Safari at Minneriya National Park, located between Habarana and Polonnaruwa, the 8,890 hectares of Minneriya National Park features the ancient Minneriya Tank. Constructed in an evergreen forest where sambar deer, leopards, and elephants roam, this tank was built in 3rdcentury AD by King Mahasena. During the dry season (June to September), this is an incredible place to observe the elephants and flocks of birds, such as cormorants and painted storks.
Day 5: Sigiriya - Dambulla - Kandy (B)
This morning drive to the Sacred City of Kandy en route visiting the Spice Garden in Matale. Today evening, you will have an insight into Sri Lankan cooking demonstration at a spice garden. Evening visit the Gem museum and the temple of the sacred tooth relic.
Day 6: Kandy - Nuwara Eliya (B)
This morning, commences with a tour visiting the Upper Lake Drive, Market Square, Arts & Crafts Centre. Also visit Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a 14th century pleasure retreat of the Pandyan kings. Drive to Nuwara Eliya - The ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka, is set against beautiful backdrops of Mountains, Valleys, Waterfalls and Tea Plantations. All around Nuwara Eliya you will see evidence of the British influence.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya - Ella (B)
Transfer to train station for a scenic train trip to Ella. Ella is a beautiful sleepy mountain village with an ideal cool climate of the central highlands. On a clear day, its view extends the south coast of Sri Lanka. Ella is also a perfect base for relaxing, with lots of fantastic walks through tea plantations to temples and waterfalls. With its perfect climate, this village soothes your mind and makes your day carefree and relaxing.
Day 8: Ella - Arugam Bey (B)
Transfer to Arugam Bey Arugam Bay is one of Sri Lanka's most famous tourist spots. The area is well known for its parties, beaches and surfing.
Day 9: Arugam Bey (B)
Leisure and own activities
Day 10: Arugam Bey – Yala (B)
Transfer from Arugam bey to Yala, visit Kataragama Murugan Temple, leisure at hotel.
Day 11: Yala – Mirissa (B)
This morning, take a Safari at Yala National Park by Jeep. This is the most famous National Park where wild animals and birds could be observed. The Wild animals include Elephants in herds of varying sizes, Leopards, Wild Boar, Wild Buffalo, Crocodiles, and Peacocks, Jackal, Sloth Bear and other animals. Also, take an afternoon safari in the National Park to enjoy viewing wildlife as the sun sets. Proceed to Mirissa and stay at Mirissa
Day 12: Mirissa – Galle (B)
Early morning leave for whale watching. Whale watching trip in Mirissa takes usually 3-5 hours, the average duration is 3-4 h. Our tours start before 7 am from Mirissa harbor. You should be there at 6:00 AM.
Leave for Galle and visit Galle Dutch Fort in the afternoon. This city has the most ancient and important harbour in the country.
Day 13: Galle (B)
Day at leisure
Day 14: Galle - Balapitiya - Colombo (B)
Visit Madu Ganga for a boat ride and Turtle Hatchery, proceed to Colombo
Day 15: Colombo (B)
Take a morning tour of Colombo visiting Fort, former British military garrison, Sea Street - the Goldsmith’s quarters, Bazaar, a Hindu Temple with elaborate stone carvings, Dutch Church of Wolfendhal and Independence Square. The afternoon is free.
Day 16: Colombo
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight
Included: Accommodation for 15 nights, meals as per itinerary, transfers, sightseeing as indicated with English speaking driver-guide and entrances
Departs: Daily
Add-On: Beach stay close to Colombo or in Maldives