Day By Day Itinerary
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DAY 1
AIRPORT – KANDY – APPROX 04 HRS DRIVE
After arrival at the airport in Sri Lanka, you will be greeted by our representative and driven to Kandy, en route to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. It is a beloved sanctuary by locals and tourists; it provides care for abandoned and injured elephants. This sanctuary is ideal to visit, especially during feeding and bathing hours, offering a memorable experience of watching these gentle giants in action.
Later, take a look at Spice Garden in Mawanella to learn about the herbs and spices that are integral to Sri Lankan cuisine and Ayurvedic healing traditions.
Check-in at the hotel and relax.
Dinner & Overnight stay in Kandy.
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DAY 2
KANDY CITY TOUR
After breakfast, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the last royal capital of Sinhalese. Explore Upper Lake Drive for panoramic views, visit the bustling Market Square, and stop at the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa), which is believed to house the tooth of Lord Buddha. Go on a peaceful stroll around the town and hunt some souvenirs with intricate treasures in wood, copper, silver, brass, ebony, bronze, ceramics, lacquer work, handlooms, batiks, jewelry and reed-ware.
In the afternoon, head to the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, renowned for its orchid collection and scenic landscapes along the Mahaweli River. Located about 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, this garden was visited by 1.2 million locals and 400,00 tourists in 2016.
Afterwards, visit the Gem Museum in Kandy to discover Sri Lanka’s renowned gemstones.
During evening hours, attend a Cultural Dance Show featuring pulsating rhythms, traditional drumming and dances that bring ancient rituals to life through colour and rhythm.
Dinner & Overnight stay in Kandy.
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DAY 3
KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA – APPROX 03 HRS DRIVE
After breakfast, head towards the hill town of Nuwara Eliya, visit the Ramboda waterfalls and visit a tea factory to learn about the island’s world-famous Ceylon tea.
In the afternoon, soak in the old colonial outpost still referred to as ‘Little England’ Nuwara Eliya. Perched at a height of 6200, its cool climate, neatly maintained gardens, and old-English architecture make it a serene and attractive tourist spot, including the iconic Grand Hotel. The town also features a historic golf course and scenic horse racetrack to complete the old-era picture.
In the evening, visit Sita Amman Temple, Gregory Lake, and Victoria Park.
Sita Amman Temple: Begin your evening with a visit to the Sita Amman Temple, where the striking architecture is sure to captivate you. On one side of the temple, ancient statues of Lord Rama and Sita stand as a timeless tribute to their story. Though the temple has been modernized, it remains rich in spiritual charm, with vibrant paintings, intricately sculpted pillars, and detailed statues, all beautifully illustrating the epic tale of Rama and Sita.
Gregory Lake, Nuwara Eliya: Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s scenic tea country, Gregory Lake, often called Gregory Reservoir, is a tranquil escape in the hill city of Nuwara Eliya. This astonishing lake was constructed in 1873 during the tenure of British Governor Sir William Gregory, which gives it the name Gregory Lake. Today, the lake and surroundings are well-preserved and have become a popular attraction for those looking for a peaceful stroll, boating, and enjoying the cool highland air amidst stunning natural beauty.
Victoria Park, Nuwara Eliya:
Located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, right next to the Post Office, Victoria Park is one of the most beautifully maintained public parks in Sri Lanka. Once used as a research field by the Hakgala Botanical Garden, it was officially named in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Now, the park is a serene retreat featuring manicured lawns, vibrant flower beds, and peaceful walking paths, making it the perfect place to take a relaxing evening stroll or a quiet moment amidst nature.
Check into a hotel, enjoy local delicacies for dinner and stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
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DAY 4
NUWARA ELIYA - BENTOTA – APPROX 05.30 HRS DRIVE
After having breakfast, proceed to the resort town of Bentota via Kithulgala. Adventure seekers can enjoy an exciting White-Water Rafting experience on the Kelani River, which features five challenging and four minor rapids along a scenic 5 km stretch. Full safety gear, modern rafts, and a comprehensive safety briefing by expert instruction are provided to ensure safety. If you prefer a more relaxed approach and want to keep your feet dry, you can take in the lush surroundings and appreciate the tranquil beauty of the region.
Check into a hotel in Bentota and relax.
Savour regional cuisine for dinner and stay overnight.
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DAY 5
BENTOTA-GALLE CITY TOUR & BENTOTA CITY TOUR
After breakfast, travel towards the heritage city of Galle.
The Heritage City of Galle: For centuries, Galle has stood resilient, weathering the forces of colonial conquest and the wrath of nature. At the heart of this colonial and heritage city lies the most iconic tourist destination of Sri Lanka- Galle Fort. This fort was originally built by the Portuguese, later fortified by the Dutch, and carefully preserved by the British. Pounded by the daily waves for over 400 years, this fort stood firm even during the devastating 2004 tsunami and remains a living monument. Within its sturdy walls, the colonial-era architecture has gracefully resisted the march of modernity, preserving the city’s timeless charm and historic grandeur.
Bentota: Bentota is a coastal paradise for nature lovers. Bentota is located along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. It is a charming seaside town known for its rich biodiversity and natural beauty. This region is a wonderland for bird watchers, with several sea birds and waders frequently spotted along the shore, including the rare Indian Heron. The lush green vegetation along the Bentota River also offers shelter to many local bird species and winter migratory birds. The sightseeing opportunities of Benota don’t end here; visits to the Turtle Hatchery, serene Madu River boat safaris, and scenic cruises along the Bentota River make this trip memorable.
Madu River Boat Ride: A boat ride along the Madu River offers a spectacular journey through one of Sri Lanka’s richest ecosystems. This biodiverse wetland is home to an extraordinary range of wildlife, including 11 species of aquatic mollusks and 14 species of land mollusks. The river’s mangrove-fringed surroundings also support 70 species of fish, 31 types of reptiles, and 50 varieties of butterflies. For bird watchers, the Madu River is a true paradise boasting 111 recorded bird species, including several migratory birds that frequent the region. As you glide through its serene waters, you’ll experience the beauty and harmony of this vibrant ecosystem, teeming with life at every turn.
Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda: The Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda is a vital conservation initiative focused on protecting Sri Lanka’s sea turtles from extinction. It plays a key role in safeguarding turtle eggs, nurturing hatchlings, and releasing them safely into the ocean.
Head to the hotel, enjoy dinner and stay overnight in Bentota.
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DAY 6
BENTOTA -COLOMBO- APPROX 02 HRS DRIVE
After breakfast, depart for Colombo and enjoy a city tour and shopping, including Gangaramaya Temple.
Colombo, the capital city of Sri Lanka, is the largest commercial and entertainment hub, with various hotels, shopping malls, nightclubs, tree-lined streets, corporate buildings and more to rejuvenate and enjoy nightlife and shopping. Stand under towering streets in the afternoon sun, and you’re bound to cool off.
The city has two major parks, Viharamahadevi Park and Galle Face Green, attracting visitors who love serenity and hold ancient glory. They were named after Queen Victoria and Sri Lankan princes Vihara Maha Devi, Galle face Green. Situated along the western coastline, these parks offer the best city sunset every evening that leaves you in awe.
Visit the famous Gangaramaya Temple, seek blessings, and admire the intricate carvings and architecture of the ancient era.
Spend time shopping in popular retail hubs like Majestic City, Liberty Plaza, Crescat Boulevard, ODEL, and Arina to buy garments, handicrafts, books, leather goods and many more. For bargain deals, stroll through the vibrant local markets like the Pettah Bazaar, where everything from textiles to electronics is available at the most reasonable prices.
Check-in at a hotel in Colombo and unwind.
Enjoy the final dinner of your trip and stay overnight.
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DAY 7
COLOMBO – AIRPORT – APPROX 45 MINUTES DRIVE
After enjoying a delicious breakfast, head to Colombo International Airport to catch your return flight, carrying unforgettable memories of your time in the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka.