Sun, Sand and Culture

We kindly request all guests on the group tour to plan their arrival in Sri Lanka one day prior to the official start date of the tour. Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed and comfortably transferred to your hotel in Negombo. This additional arrival day allows you to rest after your journey, adjust to the tropical climate, and settle in at your own pace. It also ensures that all members of the group are together in Negombo the evening before the adventure begins. At 1900 hrs, a tour briefing will be conducted at the hotel, where you will meet your tour leader and fellow travelers. During this session, you will receive important information about the journey ahead, go through the itinerary, and have the opportunity to ask any questions. By the morning of Day 1, everyone will be refreshed, well-informed, and ready to begin the Sri Lanka experience together from Negombo.

After an early breakfast at 08:00 hrs, depart from Negombo and travel towards Sigiriya. En-route, visit the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Continue the journey to Kurunegala to visit the Selyn Handloom Factory, well known for its beautifully crafted traditional handloom products. Upon arrival in Sigiriya, check in to your pre-booked hotel. In the evening, visit and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to admire its ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens, and panoramic views. Return to the hotel for dinner and an overnight stay in Sigiriya.

After breakfast, begin a scenic journey to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. En-route, explore the magnificent Dambulla Golden Rock Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its ancient cave paintings and Buddha statues. Continue to Matale, where you will visit a fragrant Spice Garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s world-famous spices, followed by a visit to a Hindu Temple reflecting the island’s rich spiritual diversity. Upon arrival in Kandy, check in to your hotel and relax. In the evening, visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa) to witness the revered evening ceremony, a deeply spiritual and memorable experience. Conclude the day with a vibrant Kandyan cultural dance performance, showcasing traditional music and dance forms of Sri Lanka. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel in Kandy.

Begin the day early at 05:15 hrs with a climb to Little Adam’s Peak, where you will be rewarded with a breathtaking sunrise view over Ella’s misty hills and lush landscapes. Return to the hotel for breakfast and some relaxation. After breakfast, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge at 09:00 hrs to witness a train gracefully crossing this colonial-era marvel, set amidst dense greenery. Thereafter, depart for Udawalawa, stopping en-route at the picturesque Ravana Ella Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous waterfalls. Upon arrival in Udawalawa, check in to your hotel. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari at Udawalawa National Park, renowned for its large herds of wild elephants, diverse birdlife, and natural beauty. Return to the hotel in the evening to enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Udawalawa.

Early in the morning, you may choose to embark on an optional whale-watching excursion, a memorable experience offering the chance to spot majestic blue whales and dolphins in the deep waters off Mirissa. Alternatively, enjoy a leisurely morning at the beach, relaxing by the shore, soaking up the sun, and embracing the calm and serene coastal atmosphere of Mirissa. In the evening, you will gather for a heartfelt farewell dinner — a special moment to relive the highlights of your journey, share laughter and stories, and celebrate the friendships formed along the way. It is a time to reflect on the unforgettable experiences, breathtaking landscapes, and warm hospitality that made your adventure truly meaningful. This thoughtfully arranged farewell dinner is included in the tour price for all guests on the group tour, offering a beautiful and memorable conclusion to your time in Sri Lanka before departure.