Pidurangala Rock

To begin your exploration in Sri Lanka and to start day 1 proceedings, we'll be visiting Pidurangala Rock. While the massive ancient rock of Sigiriya is steeped in history and is the main draw for tourists to the area of Dambulla, hiking to Pidurangala Rock to view the plains at sunset is a magical experience with a much more natural feel. The place was first used as a Buddhist monastery worshipped by King Kasyapa with many temples dating back to the third century BC, and now it offers a great adventure for all travelers. Located adjacent to Sigiriya Rock with the nearly same height, Pidurangala affords the best views of not only the valleys but also the famous historic fortress. Entrance/Attraction ticket for Pidurangala Rock is 3 USD per person.

Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress

To kick off day two's proceedings, you'll be visiting an UNESCO World Heritage site - Sigiriya rock fortress. This fortified garden city of Sigiriya rock fortress is an exceptional master piece of ancient urban planning / landscape & architecture / construction technology /exceptional hydraulic engineering & management / ancient fine art with unique harmony between nature and human imagination and all these living examples proved that it was a Well Planned City & Palace in 5th Century AD. The Sigiriya rocky plain, made of magma from an extinct volcano, is 200 meters higher than the surrounding forest. The exhibition will surprise you with its unique harmony in nature and human imagination. Entrance/Attraction to Sigiriya rock fortress is 30 USD per person.

Hiriwadunna

Let's get some traditional Sri Lankan Village experience!!! A visit to the hamlet of Hiriwadunna in Sri Lanka showcases the laid-back rhythms of small village life. Engage in many village activities that form everyday life; such as an oxen cart ride, a catamaran ride, and a walk through the fields. Learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan food. You will finish off with an exceptionally delicious buffet lunch, served in classic Sri Lankan style. This is your truly Sri Lankan holiday experience . Hiriwadunna village experience tour is 30 USD per person including traditional delicious buffet lunch and all other activities mentioned above.

Golden Temple of Dambulla

After refreshing at Hiriwadunna Village, next up you'll be heading to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple - A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. Caves, be it limestone or rock overhangs, are the most stable spaces on Earth. They preserve a history that counts time in centuries, not decades. The Dambulla Temples are well preserved and still functioning today after nearly two thousand years of continual use. The continuity of use makes it the best preserved antiquity you’ll ever visit. Entrance/Attraction ticket to Dambulla Royal Cave Temple is 5 USD per person.

Dambulla Dedicated Economic Centre

We'll end day two's proceedings with some fresh vegetables and fruits! In Dambulla, it is 1 km from the Golden Temple, you will see the largest vegetables and fruits wholesale market in Sri Lanka. Every day, numerous colorful vegetables and fruits are offered on the market. The harvest from the all corners of Sri Lanka as well as surrounding fields and villages is brought in to the market for distribution to the rest of the country. Trucks loaded with pumpkins, varieties of bananas, mangoes, avocados, watermelons, apples, coconuts, beans, carrots, leeks, peppers and lots more are supplied. You are short of eyes to see all this. Here, you will get to see the many locals of the district engaged in selling several varieties of vegetables and fruits from their tiny stalls. Seeing them dealing with customers also gives you a perspective into their daily lives and traditions.

Nalanda Gedige

You'll start your day three's proceedings by having a quick look at Nalanda Gedige - an ancient and mysterious edifice near Matale that has confounded researchers with its strange mix of Hindu and Buddhist architecture. Believed to be at least a thousand years old the structure; the structure was rediscovered in 1893 by the Archaeological Commissioner of Sri Lanka at the time, H. C. P. Bell. Nalanda Gedige can be see not far from Kandy city; and is an important archaeological site of Sri Lanka. It’s not to be missed both for its uniqueness and the mystery it holds. It would definitely help to read up on classical Hindu Temple architecture and Tantric Buddhist architecture, so as to understand the anomaly that is Nalanda Gedige.

Sri Muthumariamman Temple

One of the first things come to your mind with country Sri Lanka is Buddhism. But Sri Muthumariamman Hindu Temple is one of the great examples to prove Sri Lanka has been a multi cultural country through out all these years. Hindus say Sri Muthumariamman Temple to this famous Matale Hindu Temple. And also they believe Muthumariamman is the goddess for the rain. In the Tamil language, they say “Muthu” to pearls, “Mari” to rain, and “Amman” to the goddess. Furthermore, Hindu people worship this goddess for prosperity. Hinduism came to Sri Lanka from India. Most of the time they located on the lands of English cultivators. English cultivators brought the Tamils from India to cultivate their lands. Matale Hindu Temple was built in 1874. Previously the land was a paddy field. After that, the owner donated this land to build the temple in 1852. In 1983 an ethnic conflict in the area severely damaged the temple. Anyway, in the present, it is well built.

Kandy Lake Club - Cultural Dance Show

Time to see some traditional Sri Lankan dancing. The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a stimulating Sri Lankan Arts, Dance & Cultural Heritage Show that is a must see for any visitor who visits the historic city of Kandy. The Kandy Lake Club Dance started in 1982 with the view of having a cultural dance performance bringing together all Sri Lankan dance types to one platform. It has since become a tourist attraction for many people visiting the country and keen on a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage. Dance techniques unique to areas of the island are usually passed on from generation to generation. These Dances are performed at local ceremonies and rituals using drums and costumes that are unique to each area. Among the attractions are the Dances depicting the majestic walk of the elephant, colorful performance of the peacock and the mystical movements of the cobra.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

To end day three's explorations, you'll be finally visiting the temple which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha is one of the holiest shrines in the entire Buddhist world!!! The temple complex is surrounded by a moat and it is bounded by white carvings of elephants. You could also see the four main Devalas (temples of Gods) facing the temple complex. Just as you enter the main court yard of the temple premises you come across statues of Weera Keppetipola Disawe, a hero of the Uva rebellion against the British rulers, Venerable and noted monks like the Hikkaduwe Sri Summangala thera. From this place you get a clear view of the Octagon and the golden canopy of the chamber that houses the tooth relic. It is advised for all tourists not to wear shorts or short skirts and to go barefoot into the temple as a sign of respect. Entrance/Attraction fee for Temple of Tooth Relic is 5 USD per person.

Royal Botanical Gardens

Fresh day, fresh start! You'll be visiting Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens to kick off day four's proceedings. The gardens display over 4 000 different species of plants, regarded amongst the most superior in Asia. The highlight is the spectacular Orchid collection and a mighty avenue of palm trees. In addition to a plethora of flowering plants, there is also an extensive collection of medicinal plants and spices which can be spotted on your meander across the gardens. Encompassing over 60 hectares of sublimely designed lawns, pavilions and plant houses, the extraordinary array of Sri Lankan, Asian and international flora is a fragrant, colorful view on the eye. Entrance/Attraction ticket for Peradeniya Botanical Gardens is 5 USD per person.

Ambuluwawa Tower

Next up.. an easy hike to do which gives you 360 degree views of the surrounding mountains, forests, rivers and towns in Kandy! Hike to Ambuluwawa tower is an easy hike in an area richly diverse, with evergreen forests, blossomed flower plants as well creepers and about 200 different kinds of plants from 80 plant families including a variety of medicinal plants. Ambuluwawa is surrounded by many mountains including Piduruthalagala from the East, Bible Rock (Bathalegala) from the West, Sri Pada (Adam’s Peak) from the South and Knuckles Mountain Range from the North. Apart from these mountains many other mountains are also clearly visible from here and adds to the beauty of the area. These are the Hanthana Mountain Range, Hunnasigiri Mountain and mountain ranges associated with Algalla and Kadugannawa. There is a cool mountain breeze in the area due to this reason.

Blue Field Tea Factory

Time have a fresh cup of tea! As a land of tea, Nuwara Eliya has quite a large number of tea factories, tea houses and tea fields. Bluefield Tea Factory in Nuwara Eliya is one of the most popular tea factories in Sri Lanka. Like many other popular tea factories in Sri Lanka, Bluefield Tea Factory offers a guided tour through the factory for visitors. You are able to see how tea is dried, pressed and produced. You will get to see the various equipment and hear how they function. You will also visit a tea tasting chamber with different types of teas. There you will get to know the proper way of brewing tea and the various ways to identify the different types of tea. On completing the tour you will have the chance to purchase fresh boxes of tea leaves or even small souvenirs from the tea factory’s gift shop. You can also enjoy a cup of hot, perfectly brewed tea and some pastries at the Bluefield’s restaurant before you leave.

Ramboda Waterfall

Fresh start needs a fresh end!!! To end day four's adventures, you'll be heading to Ramboda Waterfall. Ramboda falls lies in the Pussellawa district, in the city of Kandy. The area is known for marvelous landscapes comprising of highlands, ridges, plains, streams and hilly mountains. The best of the attractions being the Ramboda falls. At an elevation of 358ft, Ramboda stands as the 11th highest falls in Sri Lanka. The cold winds are a constant and the steps of the rocks fall like cascades of ivory and paint a gorgeous picture against the backdrop of the sky. It involves a mild 2 km trek uphill, and anyone can scale it quickly. In terms of vivid landscapes and cosy climate, Ramboda falls checks all boxes that will keep tourists engaged and on their feet!

Gregory Lake

After spending two days at Kandy, you'll be heading next Nuwara Eliya - also known as "Little England" due to its cool climate and colonial-era bungalows. To have a fresh start to the day, you'll visit Lake Gregory and its park area in the morning. Spanning 225 acres, Lake Gregory is the place to go for water activities in Nuwara Eliya, with the park serving as a great spot for picnics. You can find little ponies trotting along on the grass and boats that you could hire to go out on the lake and enjoy some serenity away from the noise. Jet Skis are also available for hire, and you could take part in some windsurfing here as well! If you need to get away from the sun, there are private little huts where you can relax, and if you’re hungry, there is no shortage of food stalls in the park, selling you a variety of snacks and local delicacies.

Located just 1 km from the Hakgala is the Seetha Amman kovil. This is the only Seetha Amman kovil in the world and is built according to South Indian architecture. Legend has it that Seetha was held captive and hidden in this spot by king Rama to protect her from the demon king Ravana according to the Epic Ramayana. The stream that runs close to this spot is believed to be the place where Sita bathed and the rock beside it is supposed to be the place where she sat praying. On the rock face across the stream are circular depressions believed to be the foot prints of Rawana’s elephant.There is one spot in the stream where the water cannot be drunk and legend has it that Sita cursed this spot and hence the bad taste. Water is very clear and the Temple is known in many other names such as Sita Amman kovil, Sita Amman Temple, Hanuman Kovil, Hanuman Temple and Sri Bhaktha Hanuma Kovil which all refer to the same place.

Nine Arches Bridge

Train tours in the highlands of Sri Lanka, is rated as one of the best train tours in the world. And of course, the majestic Nine Arch Bridge is one of the many reasons for that. The glorious Nine Arch Bridge between Ella and Demodara station is one of the engineering marvels in the early 20th century. Commissioned under the British in the year 1921, the Nine Arch Bridge stands proudly, a testament to the engineering and architectural brilliance of the early 20th century. Ideally placed between the Ella and Demodara railway station, those choosing to walk along the bridge will be presented with scenes of rolling hills and dense jungle to delight in. The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the ‘Bridge in the Sky’ was constructed by connecting two bog mountains when constructing the Badulla – Colombo railway. This bridge is 300 feet in length, 25 feet in width and 80-100 feet in height. It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country.

Little Adam's Peak View Point

To wind up day five's adventures, you'll be hiking to Little Adam's Peak. Mini Adams peak is the closest and easiest hike in Ella. You will get to the entrance in about 15 min walk from Ella town. It is 1141 m in height and from the entrance it takes up to 30-45 min for the hike. Views from the summit are incredible. 360 degrees panoramic views with clouds rolling in, is a treat to watch for any traveler.

Hali-ela

Let's begin where we stopped at day five. Prepare to experience one of the worlds most scenic train trip.!!! Hali-ela to Ella or the other way around, is considered to be one of the most beautiful train trips in the world. Beautiful vistas of lush nature are visible. Tea plantations, dense forests, mountains, and valleys are just a few sights on your trip. The little waterfalls and tunnels along the route were not to be overlooked. Eat the spicy treats served by vendors at each stop as well. These treats have mouthwatering tastes. They are, however, a little spicier. Also, it is the most excellent method to experience the highlands of Sri Lanka. On the train, you can meet friendly folks. You can salute the youngsters who are running down the rails. The Kandy to Ella train voyage is a must-do adventure on this island. We will take care of the train/seat reservation on behalf of you. There is no additional cost for you for this journey. Just enjoy the ride!

Rawana Falls

Ravana Falls is entrenched in myth and folklore. It is believed that the demon King Ravana, from the epic Ramayan, hid Sita in the cave behind the waterfall after he kidnapped her and brought her back to Lanka. Only a 10 minute drive from the Ella main road, Ravana Falls is great to visit when in Ella. The drive to the waterfall is one of the most spectacular drives in the country since you will be driving on narrow roads with hairpin turns which will make you feel like you’re on a roller coaster! To get to the falls you must trek through a wonderfully thick jungle, from where you will see the waterfall quite early on.

Yala National Park

Time to see some Leopards!!! Situated in Sri Lanka’s south-east hugging the panoramic Indian Ocean, Yala was designated a wildlife sanctuary in 1900 and was designated a national park in 1938. Ironically, the park was initially used as a hunting ground for the elite under British rule. Yala is home to 44 varieties of mammal and 215 bird species. Among its more famous residents are the world’s biggest concentration of leopards (the highest density of leopards in the world), majestic elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted dear, peacocks, and crocodiles. Our tour guides will arrange you the Safari Jeeps and the drivers for the journey.

Coconut Tree Hill

On the final day of your adventure, you'll be travelling to Galle - Sothern Capital of Sri Lanka. We picked Coconut Tree Hill, Mirissa as first attraction to visit of your adventure's last day. Having made its way to almost every traveller’s Instagram profile when they visit Mirissa, the Coconut Tree Hill is a must-do when you’re in Mirissa. The Coconut Tree Hill is a private coconut estate with a nearby temple set on a high cliff overlooking the glistening waters of the Indian Ocean and the untouched stretch of golden beach. Located in proximity to the town, the hill can be accessed throughout the day or night; at no cost. A short, exciting trek from the base to the summit of the hill or ‘dome’ takes you about 10 minutes through the coconut estate before you’re left in awe at the most stunning view of Mirissa and its golden coast. The Coconut Tree Hill is definitely one to add to your bucket list in Sri Lanka as it’s the perfect place to watch a bold, island sunset from.

Weligama Beach

It's time for a swim!!! Weligama beach is a long sandy beach and it has a little depth. But it has amazing waves. Also, there are more than 100 surf schools with experienced surfers near weligama beach. Weligama beach is also good for less-confident swimmers. Even if you cant swim well, still you can learn to surf here. That is an another reason for people to select Weligama beach as the beginning place. The number of things to do in Weligama Beach, Sri Lanka will amaze new visitors and keep long-time travelers coming back for more. There is a stunning stretch of sunset beach where you can go swimming, chill out, meet locals and learn how to surf. There are lots of cafés, restaurants, and bars, together with a bustling list of activities. There are scooters, tuk tuk's, street food, shopping malls and so much more.

Galle Dutch Fort

If you’re heading to the Sri Lankan south coast, then a visit to Galle Fort has to be on your bucket list. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 then extended on by the Dutch in the 17th-century, It’s now a thriving Sri Lankan community on the Indian Ocean. Over time, the fort has become a melting pot of architecture, cuisine, culture and heritage sites. This makes it an incredible place to explore that has SO much to see, eat and do The icon of Galle Fort is definitely its photogenic lighthouse that sits at the far end of Utrecht Bastion. It’s the oldest lighthouse in Sri Lanka that has its origin in 1650. This is when it was an old oil lamp that used to guide sailors onto the shore. Once you’re finished admiring lighthouse, you can easily walk along the Fort Ramparts next to the ocean.

Bentota River

You just reach the last attraction of your adventure. We saved the best for the last. Let take a boat ride at Bentota River!!! Just a few kilometers away from the city of Bentota lies the fabled Bentota river. Bentota river is high rich in bio diversity. Bank of the river is thickly filled fresh water mangroves. Bentota river boat safari is one of the popular outdoor activities. This boat ride will take approximately 1 hour and you will be able to explore large area of mangroves as you cruise along the bank of Bentota river. Also you can watch exotic animals that live in the area like crocodiles, water monitors, Lizard, various kind of Birds and more. Experience the ticklish fish therapy will be the highlight of the tour. Once the boat tour is finished you can discuss with our tour guide where we need to drop you off.