On arrival at the Bandaranayke International Airport, you will be welcomed at the airport and transferred to Negombo. Check in at the hotel and relax.
Overnight stay at Beacon Beach - Standard Room or Similar
Early in the morning, you will visit the Fish Market. There are daily fish auctions where you can witness the locals bargain. The fishing village is also locally known as the Lellama and is located across the lagoon bridge, near the Old Dutch Gate in Negombo. This is the second largest open-air fish market in Sri Lanka. This will give you a better insight to a local fisher community. You will be able to witness the fishermen in hundreds of boats bringing in their catch. See how the wholesalers and restaurateurs trade and watch the packing & loading of fish for distribution across the country, as well as for export worldwide. After breakfast, transfer to Sigiriya. Upon arrival in Sigiriya, check-in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at Kassapa Lions Rock - Chalet Room or Similar
In the morning, visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress, built by King Kashyapa (473-495 AD). The 'Lion Rock' is a citadel, rising 200 meters from the jungle, and was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare fortified town. A moat, rampart and extensive gardens, including the renowned ponds, form the base of the rock. You will also visit the world-renowned frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway. These frescoes are painted in earth pigments on plaster.
Later in the afternoon you, will visit Minneriya National Park. Covering 8890 hectare, the park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub areas and is home to Sri Lanka’s favorites such as sambar deer and elephants. However the central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank (built in 3rdcentury AD by King Mahasena). During the dry season (June to September), this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants that come to bathe and graze on the grasses as well as the huge flocks of birds (cormorants and painted storks to name but a few) that come to fish in the shallow waters. Back to hotel.
Overnight stay at Kassapa Lions Rock Sigiriya - Chalet Room or Similar
After breakfast transfer to the coastal town of Trincomalee with its famous harbor. Many historical kovils are found here, visited by many Hindu and Buddhist devotees. Visit the hot springs, enjoy some whale watching, or enjoy the clean and shallow beaches. Nilaveli is situated on the northwest of Trincomalee and has one of the best beaches. Set off to explore the sights in Trincomalee. Return to your hotel and relax.
Dinner & Overnight stay at Pigeon Island Beach Resort - Deluxe Room or Similar
After breakfast, set off by boat to explore the Pigeon Island National Park which is a sanctuary located about a kilometer off the mainland. This is a famous marine national park which is home to a thriving coral reef and rich diversity of reef fish. The name Pigeon Island is due to the large number of pigeons that use the rocky cliffs of the island as nesting grounds. Return to your hotel and relax.
Dinner & Overnight stay at Pigeon Island Beach Resort - Deluxe Room or Similar
Setoff for Kandy after breakfast. The day's first stop will be at a Spice Garden in Matale. It is interesting to learn about the Sri Lankan spices as it is a part of the culture. You will also get familiar with herbal medicine. Continue the journey to Kandy and spend the afternoon exploring this historic city. After exploring Kandy, it's time for your final destination for the day; The Knuckles.
Dinner & Overnight stay at Wild Glamping Knuckles - Luxury Tent
After breakfast, spend the day hiking and exploring the Knuckles Mountains and the surrounding tea estates. The Knuckles are some of the most pristine and well preserved wilderness areas on the island and they offer some excellent hiking trails.
Dinner & Overnight stay at Wild Glamping Knuckles - Luxury Tent
After breakfast, transfer to the hill country town of Bandarawela. Your accommodation for the night will be at a local Buddhist Temple. The accommodation is basic with shared washrooms and common toilets, but it is comfortable and during your stay here, you will be served vegetarian meals. You will have the chance to interact with the monks and learn about the principles of Buddhism.
Dinner & Overnight stay at a Temple in Bandarawela
After breakfast, setoff to enjoy a hike in the Bandarawela Region. You will pass by small tea- and vegetable plantations as you explore this scenic region. After the trek, you will be able to refresh yourself and then transfer to Negombo. This is a long journey but there will be a few comfort stops along the way. You will reach Negombo late evening.
Overnight stay at Beacon Beach - Standard Room or Similar
Departure Transfer to the Airport.
One bottle of mineral water (500ml) per person per day
1 Snorkeling session at Pigeon Island, including boat trip
1 Hike in Knuckles
1 Hike in Bandarawela
Entrance fees to:
- Sigiriya
- Polonnaruwa
- Minneriya National Park + Jeep
