East Coast Adventure 12 nights/13 Days
Great for July - September
With ancient sites, gorgeous beaches, National Parks and breath taking scenery throughout the country, this delightful island in the Indian Ocean offers holidaymakers an opportunity to visit all year round.
While the West Coast climate during July to September is not so great, The North and East Coast of the country are at their stunning best.
This 12 Nights /13 day tour, while packed with exciting experiences also gives you time to relax and refresh your soul.
Highlights
Vibrant and engaging Colombo
Ancient Anuradhapura
Traditional curries cooking class
Iconic Dambulla Cave Temples and Sigiriya fortress
Last kingdom of Sri Lanka - Kandy
All things Tea - plantation, factory, tea tasting
Scenic train trips around Nuwara Eliya
Elephant safari in Minneriya
Beach stay on the East Coast
Snorkeling option from Pigeon Island
itinerary
DAY 1 | ARRIVAL DAY - COLOMBO
Our driver guide will welcome you at the airport and transfer to Colombo. Afternoon Colombo city tour. Visit Gangarama Temple, Galle Face Green and famous Pettah market. Dinner in Ministry of Crab or some other famous restaurant.
Overnight stay in Colombo 1 NIGHT
DAY 2 - ANURADHAPURA
After breakfast we will drive to Anuradhapura.
Located in the heart of the island, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO World Heritage site that, while showcasing ancient Sri Lanka, is today a vibrant, important place for Sri Lankan people. Here, while your eyes take in the beauty of the monuments, you can appreciate the history and incredible engineering skills of the forefathers of Sri Lanka.
We will visit the Sacred Bodhi Tree, the ancient yet living Ruwanwelisaya Dagaba, Jetavanaramaya, and Thuparamaya in this historical capital of Sri Lanka.
In the afternoon we will drive to Sigiriya.
Overnight stay Sigiriya 1 NIGHT
SIGIRIYA / BEACH STAY
DAY 3 | SIGIRIYA | BEACH STAY
After early breakfast ,proceed to Sigiriya rock fortress. Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of the most iconic monuments in Sri Lanka. It's located in the center of the cultural triangle, and was built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD. The king used the rock to build his fortress as a way to provide him with ultimate protection against an attack. He built himself a palace at the top of the rock along with a village for his followers at the bottom of the rock decorated with water gardens containing baths and fountains that still work to this day.The site is also famous for its frescos which depict "Damsels of Sigiriya", which date back to 5th century AD.
Village safari tour; Immerse yourself in the local culture as you explore traditional rural communities, interact with friendly villagers, and witness their way of life. Engage in activities like farming, cooking, and crafts, gaining a deeper understanding of authentic Sri Lankan village traditions.,
In the afternoon we will drive to Trincomalee or Passikudah for beach stay.
Stay in Nilaveli or Passikuda 4 NIGHTS
DAYS 4 - 7 RELAX ON THE BEACH
Discover the tranquility of Sri Lanka's East Coast beaches where gentle waves kiss the golden sands.
Dive into the turquoise underwater paradise at Pigeon Island marine National Park where hawksbeak turtles glide by the vibrant coral reefs.
Perched on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean sits the colourful Koneswaram Temple. Initially built about the 300 year period and mentioned in the ancient Chronicals of Sri Lanka, many believe that his is Sri Lanka's most important Hindu temple. Plundered and destroyed in 1622 by the Portuguese invaders, some of its hidden treasures were recovered in the 1950s and the temple rebuilt in 1963. Don't miss seeing Lover's Leap, the holy lingum or the fabulous hilltop view of the Indian Ocean
day 8 minneriya national park
In the morning take a last walk on the beach and after lunch leave for Minneriya.
Embark on an unforgettable safari in the breath taking Minneriya National Park. Witness the incredible gathering of elephants during the annual "Elephant Gathering," as herds congregate near the Minneriya Tank. Experience the thrill of spotting diverse wildlife, including leopards, deer, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species, in their natural habitat.
Overnight stay in Sigiriya or Dambulla.
day 9 dambulla/ kandy
In the morning we will visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, also known as the Golden Temple.
Immerse yourself in the rich history and spiritual aura of the Dambulla Cave Temple. This is a five cave complex covering 2100 metres square and is a UNESCO Heritage site. Containing many statues and images of the Guatama Buddha, Sri Lankan kings and gods and goddesses, your eyes will also be drawn to the colourful, intricate frescoes on the walls and ceilings. A 14 metre reclining Buddha statue, hewn from the rock dominates the first cave.
We will then drive to Kandy stopping at a spice garden where you can discover the aromatic wonders of cinnamon, cardamon, cloves and learn the history of Sri Lanka's spice trade.
An another point of interest is the Sri Muththumari Amman Kovil at Matale. This colourful temple is dedicated to the goddess of rain and fertility.
Overnight stay at Kandy 2 NIGHTS
day 10 kandy
Embark on a captivating city tour of Kandy, nestled amidst lush hills in Sri Lanka. Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a revered tooth relic of the Buddha. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, home to a stunning collection of flora. Witness a cultural spectacle with a traditional Kandyan dance performance. Marvel at the architectural beauty of the Royal Palace of Kandy and enjoy panoramic views from the Bahirawakanda Temple. Immerse yourself in the bustling markets, sample local delicacies, and soak in the charm of this historic city, known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka.
Overnight stay in Kandy
After breakfast leave Kandy and drive to Nuwara Eliya. Along the way we visit Ambuluwawa Tower, This tower, 48 metres tall, sits on top of a hill above Gampola town. From the top there is a 360 degree view of all the major mountain ranges and mountains in the Kandy area. Those thrill seekers who climb to the top are rewarded with amazing views including those of Sri Pada [Adam's Peak], the Knuckles and the Hantana Ranges.
Only fit adults with a head for heights should think about climbing this tower.
As we drive this exceptionally scenic road. you will see mountains, waterfalls and tea plantations. We will visit a tea factory where you will witness the tea making process, learn about the different varieties of tea and enjoy a delightful tea tasting experience in the heart of Sri Lanka's famous tea growing area.
We will then drive on to Nuwara Eliya, a pcturesque city often referred to as "Little England", nestled amidst the lush hills in Sri Lanka. Its cool climate, spectacular landscapes and colonial era architecture make it a popular destination.
We will take a city tour, visit the market and other highlights and relax in Sri Lanka's coolest city.
Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya 1 NIGHT
day 12 scenic train trip / kitulgala rafting
After breakfast we will proceed to the Nanu Oya train station, a few kilometres from Nuwara Eliya.
From here we will embark on a breathtaking train journey from Nanu Oya to Hatton. the train winds through lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and mist-covered mountains as the scenic landscapes unfold before your eyes. Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature and enjoy a truly memorable experience on this picturesque train ride.
Experience the thrill of white water rafting in Kitulgala, Sri Lanka's adventure capital. Navigate through exhilarating rapids, surrounded by lush rainforest and breathtaking scenery. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, Kitulgala offers an unforgettable adrenaline-pumping experience that combines excitement, natural beauty, and pure adventure.
Alternatively see where the 1950s movie The Bridge over the River Kwai was filmed and enjoy lunch and bathe in the Kelaniya River below the colonial Kitulgala Resthouse.
Transfer to your beach hotel in Negombo for your final ni ght of this itinerary. Evening is at your leisure.
Overnight stay at Negombo 1 NIGHT
day 13 departure day
Depending on your departure time, enjoy a short tour of Negombo before going to Bandaranaike International Airport for your outward flight.
It's time to say Goodbye Ayubowan. It has been our pleasure to host you in our country.
Tour Cost 13 Day 1 - 5 persons AUD 1,625