Itinerary
Trip Highlights
~ Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and explore vibrant markets in Kandy.
~ Learn traditional terracotta crafting from local artisans.
~ Marvel at golden Buddha statues and intricate murals in Dambulla Cave Temple
~ Climb the UNESCO-listed “Lion Rock” Sigiriya Rock Fortress with ancient ruins & epic views.
~ Wasgamuwa National Park Jeep Safari – Encounter wild elephants, leopards, rare birds & lush flora.
~ Spot elephants swimming between islands and see crocodiles, deer & exotic birds on Gal Oya Boat Safari.
~ Swim in natural pools and trek to the top of Sri Lanka’s 2nd highest waterfall (220m).
~ Hike through terraced rice fields, tea plantations, and swim at Pahanthudawa Waterfall.
~ Explore Asia’s oldest prehistoric settlement (37,000 years old!), Fa Hien Cave.
~ Leisurely village hike through lush landscapes and local life.
~ Scenic boat ride through mangroves with birdwatching and tropical fruit tasting in Negombo.
Day 1 Arrive Colombo – Kandy
Welcome to Colombo! Upon arrival, meet up with the local representative before making our way to Kandy.
Literally known as the “City on the Hills”, Kandy was so named as it was protected by nature – water, rocks and jungles. The last capital of the Sri Lankan kings before falling to the British in 1815AD which is a World Heritage Site. The name Kandy conjures a vision of splendour and magnificence. Many legends, traditions and folklore are still lovingly kept alive.
Undertake a city tour in Kandy including its colourful local market.
Meal: Dinner
Stay: Grand Serendib or similar
Day 2 Kandy – Matale – Dambulla
In the morning, visit the temple of “The Tooth of Buddha” (Dalada Maligawa), where a ceremony takes place 3 times a day.
After that, head to Matale where we embark on a 3-hour hike through rubber, kapok forests, spice gardens and rice paddies. Our walk takes us first through a forest rich in pepper, cocoa, tea and rubber plantations. Along the way, you will come across Hindu temples built by the Tamil Indian community (395m), who make their living from tea cultivation, and cross one of their villages.
Continue on to Dambulla. Discover the Dambulla Cave Temple, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and whose five sanctuary caves are entirely decorated with Buddhist murals. Admire the surrounding lush nature and the multitude of monkeys that live in this area.
Time permitting, we will head to Dambulla DEC (dedicated economic center), a wholesale market of fruits and vegetables, laden with exotic varieties of goods, busy with trucks off-loading the produce and men carrying large bags on their shoulders. It is worth visiting this place to witness the gorgeous display, competitive bids and work in progress of a wholesale crop market.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka or similar
Day 3 Dambulla – Sigiriya – Wasgamuwa
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a Royal Citadel for 20 years in the 5th Century AD – stark and forbidding, haunted by an epic story of murder and betrayal attributed to King Kasyapa who was found hiding here after killing his father. This unique Rock Fortress or “castle in the sky” is a massive monolith of red stone that rises 600ft above ground. This rock is also know as the “Lion Rock” as the entrance to the climb to the summit is reached between the paws of a lion.
In the afternoon, take a jeep safari in Wasgamuwa National Park.
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Wasgamuwa National Park, a premier natural sanctuary in Sri Lanka. This remarkable park boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna, featuring over 150 species of vibrant flowers and plants. Experience the thrill of encountering majestic herds of elephants, a variety of rare bird species, graceful deer, and the elusive leopard in their natural habitat. Ideal for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers, Wasgamuwa National Park offers an unforgettable adventure that connects you with the wonders of the natural world.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Lavendish Wild Safari or similar
Day 4 Wasgamuwa – Gal Oya
Today we leave for Gal Oya. Embark on an afternoon safari boat cruise.
Manmade in 1949, the reservoir is surrounded by the Gal Oya National Park and is the setting for the boat safari. See elephants from the lake as they gather close to the water to drink, and if you’re lucky, see them swim from island to island – a truly unique sight! The reservoir is also home to abundant birdlife, crocodiles, deer and more, which can be spotted during the 2-hour boat safari.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Gal Oya Lake Club (Bungalow & Tents) or similar
Day 5 Gal Oya – Diyaluma – Belihul Oya
After breakfast, leave for Wellawaya for a pottery workshop. Here, the master of turning works the terracotta and produces more than 100 pieces per day, thanks to a primitive firing technique.
Alone, he has been cranking his wrasse for decades and will give up his place for you to try to give shape to the pots that will be sold in the local markets.
In the afternoon, get ready for an unforgettable adventure at Diyaluma Waterfall, one of Sri Lanka’s tallest and most stunning waterfalls!
Your journey begins with a scenic view, offering a glimpse of the surrounding lush landscapes before you arrive at the waterfall’s base. Once there, you’ll be greeted by a series of natural pools, perfect for a refreshing swim. Some of these pools are positioned at different heights, allowing you to jump from one to another for an extra dose of excitement. But that’s not all – as you continue your climb, encounter the breathtaking 220-meter drop of Diyaluma, one of the longest waterfalls in the country! The view is mesmerising as you edge closer to the waterfall, discovering more pools.
For those who love a challenge (weather permitting), the trek to the top is not to be missed.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Sennya Resort (Garden View Chalet) or similar
Day 6 Belihul Oya
Embark on an unforgettable 2 to 3 hour hiking adventure to the picturesque heart of Belihul Oya, a charming village nestled among lush green mountains. Experience the breathtaking beauty of terraced rice fields, especially vibrant during the agricultural season, and engage with the friendly locals who embody the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality. As you traverse the landscape, admire the small tea plantations and pepper trees that dot the gardens. Arrive at Pahanthudawa Waterfall where you can enjoy a dip.
After a refreshing dip in the river, go on a unique cultural experience at Nimal’s house, where you will savour authentic Sri Lankan cuisine for lunch. Conclude your journey with a leisurely stroll through the village.
In the evening, leave for Samanalawewa Reservoir and enjoy the sunset while canoeing.
Experience the serene beauty of Samanalawawe Reservoir, nestled amidst the rugged mountains of Sri Lanka’s Sabaragamuwa province. This tranquil water body, named after its butterfly-like shape, offers an idyllic setting for canoeing enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Glide through the calm waters while soaking in breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and vibrant birdlife, making every moment a picturesque adventure.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Sennya Resort (Garden View Chalet) or similar
Day 7 Belihul Oya – Bulathsinhala – Ingiriya – Negombo
Today we depart for Bulathsinhala. Continue our exploration of Sri Lanka with Fa Hien Cave.
Pahiyangala Cave is one of the offbeat and significant prehistoric places in Sri Lanka. Archaeologists have discovered by excavations that these caves had been inhabited by prehistoric cavemen who called this cave home 37,000 years ago, making this cave the most ancient prehistoric settlement in Asia and the largest naturally formed rock in the entire Asian continent.
Continue on to Ingiriya. Experience the charm of Ingiriya village with a hike designed for all skill levels. This leisurely hike offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle while enjoying the surrounding stunning natural beauty. Discover picturesque landscapes, vibrant village life, and the tranquillity of nature.
Leave for Negombo. Negombo is a beautiful fishing village located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, stretching along the Indian Ocean. You can visit the local fish market located on part of the beach and also discover its small canals, churches from the colonial era, and its nature reserve.
Meal: Breakfast, Dinner
Stay: Pledge Scape or similar
Day 8 Negombo – Colombo Airport
In the early morning, embark on a motorboat in the old town and let yourself glide on the waters of its canal. On leaving, contemplate the hundreds of brightly colored boats docked along the quays and reach the Negombo lagoon where shrimp farming is in full swing in the heart of the lakeside city. You end up in the mangrove which is home to a remarkable ecosystem and biodiversity, an ideal space for observing birds, reptiles or even monkeys! You will be able to taste a tropical fruit during this splendid boat ride.
Meal: Breakfast