Soul of Sri Lanka – Temples, Tea & Tropics

per person

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the island paradise of Sri Lanka – a land where ancient history, lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and coastal charm blend seamlessly. This carefully curated 9-day itinerary takes you from the cultural heart of the island in Sigiriya and Kandy…

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the island paradise of Sri Lanka – a land where ancient history, lush landscapes, vibrant culture, and coastal charm blend seamlessly. This carefully curated 9-day itinerary takes you from the cultural heart of the island in Sigiriya and Kandy to the misty hills of Nuwara Eliya and finally to the golden shores of Negombo.

Whether you’re drawn to the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, or the rolling tea plantations of the highlands, this itinerary offers a perfect mix of exploration, relaxation, and cultural immersion. You’ll have the chance to connect with local traditions, witness breathtaking natural beauty, and unwind along the coast before concluding your adventure.

9 Days / 8 Nights

Sri Lanka

Day 1 - Colombo - Sigiriya

Arrival in Colombo – Drive to Sigiriya Morning: • Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (Colombo) • Meet your guide and begin your scenic drive to Sigiriya (approx. 4.5–5 hours) • Stop en route for refreshments or local sights if time permits Afternoon: • Arrive and check-in at hotel in Sigiriya • Relax and recover from the journey • Optional: Short walk to nearby paddy fields or local village Evening: • Dinner at the hotel or a traditional Sri Lankan restaurant Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 2 - Sigiriya

Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Village Life Morning: • Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) • Explore the frescoes, Mirror Wall, and royal gardens at the summit Afternoon: • Experience a village tour – bullock cart ride, catamaran boat trip, and cooking demo • Enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch prepared by locals Evening: • Optional Ayurvedic massage or rest at the hotel Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 3 - Sigiriya

Wildlife Safari or Polonnaruwa Day Trip Option 1 – Wildlife Focus: Morning: • Jeep safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park to see wild elephants and more Afternoon: • Return and relax at hotel Option 2 – Cultural Focus: Morning to Afternoon: • Full-day guided tour to Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital city • Explore ruins of palaces, temples, and statues • Enjoy lunch en route and return by evening Evening: • Free time or explore local Sigiriya shops and markets Overnight: Sigiriya

Day 4 - Sigiriya - Kandy

Sigiriya – Dambulla – Kandy Morning: • Check-out from Sigiriya and drive to Dambulla Cave Temple • Visit the caves adorned with Buddha statues and colorful murals Afternoon: • Stop at a spice garden in Matale for a guided tour and refreshments • Continue to Kandy and check-in to your hotel Evening: • Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist site • Optional: Witness a Kandyan cultural dance show Overnight: Kandy

Day 5 - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

Kandy – Nuwara Eliya (Train or Drive) Morning: • After breakfast, enjoy a scenic drive or take a train to Nanu Oya • Visit a tea plantation and factory en route • Learn about Ceylon tea and taste freshly brewed varieties Afternoon: • Arrive in Nuwara Eliya – explore the colonial charm of this “Little England” town • Visit Gregory Lake and enjoy a relaxed walk Evening: • Settle in and enjoy the cool mountain air Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

Day 6 - Nuwara Eliya

Discover Nuwara Eliya Morning: • Visit Seetha Amman Temple, linked to the Ramayana • Explore Hakgala Botanical Garden, home to rare orchids and roses Afternoon: • Optional: Excursion to Horton Plains National Park (early departure if planned) • Alternatively, visit a strawberry farm or enjoy high tea at the Grand Hotel Evening: • Free time to relax or stroll the quaint streets Overnight: Nuwara Eliya

Day 7 - Nuwara Eliya - Negombo

Nuwara Eliya – Negombo Morning: • After breakfast, check out and begin drive to Negombo (approx. 6–7 hrs) • Scenic descent from hill country to coastal plains Afternoon: • Arrive in Negombo, check-in to beachfront hotel • Relax by the beach or hotel pool Evening: • Enjoy a sunset walk on the beach or a seafood dinner at a local restaurant Overnight: Negombo

Day 8 - Negombo

Leisure Day in Negombo Morning: • Visit Negombo Fish Market and Dutch Canal by boat • Explore colonial architecture and churches Afternoon: • Relax on the beach or enjoy spa treatments • Optional: Visit Muthurajawela Wetlands for a bird-watching tour Evening: • Final Sri Lankan dinner by the sea Overnight: Negombo

Day 9 - Negombo - Departure

Negombo – Colombo – Departure Morning: • Check out from hotel • Transfer to Colombo International Airport (1–1.5 hours drive) • Optional short Colombo city drive (if flight time allows) – Independence Square, Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple Afternoon/Evening: • Depart with cherished memories of Sri Lanka

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