Epic Sri Lanka Adventure

Day 1: Colombo - Arrival

AYUBOWAN! Welcome to Sri Lanka, known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. Upon your arrival at the airport in Colombo, your guide will warmly welcome and escort you directly to Bentota.

Bentota started as a small settlement centered around a Portuguese fort on the Bentota River estuary. In the 19th century, the British transformed the fort into a rest house, where civil servants would unwind under the tamarind trees. Today, Bentota continues to be a haven for relaxation, standing as one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved beach resorts. After checking into your hotel, the day ahead is all yours to soak in the charm of Bentota.

Overnight in Bentota

Day 2: Bentota - Boat safari

Morning:
Bentota is not only a mesmerizing beach destination but also a prime spot to experience Sri Lanka’s rich ecosystem. Our adventure begins with a boat safari on the Madu River, the largest natural lake and mangrove swamp in the country. Spanning at least 150 acres, the river is dotted with small islands and fringed by lush mangrove forests, home to an array of fascinating wildlife. As we glide through the gentle waters, you’ll marvel at the vibrant tropical birds and might even spot a few crocodiles.

Afternoon:
After a morning of exploration, it’s time to unwind. Have you ever heard of fish pedicure or fish spa? In Bentota, you can enjoy this unique experience as toothless fish gently massage your feet. Spend the rest of your afternoon soaking in the serene ambiance of Bentota at your own pace.

Overnight in Bentota

Day 3: Tissamaharama - Yala National Park

Morning:
Did you know that in many areas of Sri Lanka, people and free-roaming animals coexist side-by-side? While this harmony is magical, encounters aren’t always positive and safe for both sides. Today, we’re heading to Yala National Park for a full-day safari, where animals find a protected habitat. Covering 965 square kilometers, Yala boasts incredible biodiversity. Our adventure focuses on Block 1, known for its significant leopard population – offering a rare opportunity to observe and capture photos of these majestic creatures. Moreover, as we traverse the rugged terrain in a Jeep, keep watch for elephants, sloth bears, and a host of other fascinating wildlife species.

Afternoon:
Get ready for even more excitement as we explore the beautiful water holes in the park. You’ll see mugger crocodiles, painted storks, and maybe even spot the elusive black-necked stork! After an adventure-packed day, we’ll head back to our cozy lodge.

Overnight in Tissamaharama

Day 4: Ella - Diyaluma Falls

Morning:
We’ll have a 2-hour ride from Tissamaharama to Ella in the central highlands. Along our journey, we’ll pause at Diyaluma Falls, the second-highest waterfall in Sri Lanka, standing majestically at 220 meters. The upper falls offer serene natural pools perfect for a relaxing dip with stunning views of the distant green hills. In contrast, the lower falls cascade dramatically from a dizzying height, providing a breathtaking backdrop for unforgettable photos.

Afternoon:
Our adventure continues with a visit to the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, also known as the Bridge in the Sky. This architectural marvel is a testament to colonial-era railway construction in Sri Lanka. Afterward, we’ll check in at our hotel in Ella, where you can unwind and soak in the tranquil and cool atmosphere of this charming highland town. Wander along Ella’s main street, lined with quaint cafes, souvenir shops, and local eateries offering delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.

Overnight in Ella

Day 5: Kitulgala - Water Rafting

Morning:
Add more adrenaline to your day by challenging yourself with white-water rafting in Kitulgala on the edge of the Kelani River. Prepare for your rafting adventure by also considering waterfall abseiling. Guided by professional staff, you’ll don your helmet, grip your paddle, take a deep breath, and follow the water’s flow. The rafting activity offers the chance to immerse yourself in the stunning tropical scenery of the region, with birds and wildlife all around. You’ll enjoy riding the tides of the Kelani River through five rapids graded 2 and 3, providing an breathtaking experience for both first-time rafters and experts alike.

Afternoon:
Continue your adventure with jungle trekking and cave exploring. The trek will take you through lush greenery and diverse flora, with the opportunity to spot exotic wildlife. The caves offer a mysterious and thrilling exploration experience, with fascinating rock formations. After the excitement, take a moment to relax and enjoy a refreshing swim in the calm waters.

Overnight in Kitulgala

Day 6: Kandy - Kondagala Rock

Morning:
We’ll transfer 3-hour to Kandy, stop at the tea plantation that first grew tea – Loolecondera as it is now known. The estate is managed by the state and was the home of James Taylor, the Scottish tea planter who first experimented with growing tea when the coffee blight hit the plantations of Ceylon. One of the key features of Loolecondera is Kondagala Rock, a massive protruding slab that is located within the estate. The view from the top is lovely but gets marred from time to time with the constant blowing mist, like wisps of cloud swirling and travelling over the rock.

Afternoon:
Continue your journey to Kandy, It used to be the capital of the ancient kings and while it lost its capital status a while ago, it remains the second-largest city in the country and it has retained all its religious and cultural significance. You’ll have the remainder of the day to unwind amidst its serene surroundings.

Day 7: Kandy - Udawattakele Sanctuary

Morning:
Start your day with a trek at Udawattakele Sanctuary. This lush forest reserve, located in the Uplands-Aruppola suburb, is separated from the Temple of the Tooth by a picturesque hill ridge. The sanctuary’s highest peak rises 115 meters above the neighboring Kandy Lake and 635 meters above sea level. It offers a unique assortment of avifauna, making it one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning bird sanctuaries. As you trek through the sanctuary, you’ll be surrounded by the serene sounds of nature and the vibrant sights of diverse bird species, providing an enriching and peaceful experience.

Afternoon:
Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a revered Buddhist temple situated within the royal palace complex of the ancient kingdom of Kandy. This sacred site enshrines a tooth of the Buddha, making it one of the most important religious locations for Buddhists worldwide.

Overnight in Kandy

Day 8: Sigiriya - Rock Fortress

Morning:
Say goodbye to Kandy as we journey towards Sigiriya. Along the way, we’ll make a stop at Dambulla Cave Temple. This site features five caves housing around 150 breathtaking Buddha statues and paintings, showcasing some of Sri Lanka’s most significant religious art. These Buddha images, originally created over 2000 years ago, have been enhanced and enriched by successive kings over the centuries.

Afternoon:
We’ll ascend the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress, a striking marvel rising from Sri Lanka’s central plains. This dramatic outcrop, crowned with ancient ruins, is reached by near-vertical staircases that pass by stunning frescoes. Rising to a height of 108 meters, the summit offers awe-inspiring views that heighten the allure of this extraordinary destination. After a day of exploration, relax and unwind at your retreat.

Overnight in Sigiriya

Day 9: Sigiriya - Pidurangala Rock

Morning:
For an optional yet unforgettable experience, begin your day early with a mesmerizing hot air ballooning adventure in the serene Dambulla-Kandalama region. The climate here is perfect for ballooning, offering calm and dependable conditions. You’ll soar at various altitudes, from skimming treetops to several thousand feet above ground, providing a unique perspective of the expansive Dambulla-Kandalama landscape. It’s an ideal way to witness the sunrise, surrounded by the grandeur of this historic region.

Afternoon:
Continue your exploration with a climb up Pidurangala Rock. Unlike its more famous neighbor, Sigiriya, Pidurangala offers a distinct perspective. Trekking to its summit is both achievable and rewarding, especially at sunset when the sky paints a dramatic backdrop. This vantage point not only offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape but also a unique angle to appreciate the majestic presence of Sigiriya from across the horizon.

Overnight in Sigiriya

Day 10: Colombo - Departure

Your journey in Sri Lanka comes to its end. After breakfast today, you’ll get the morning to yourself – no scheduled activities. Whenever you’re ready to go, our attentive driver will be ready to take you to the airport in Colombo, ensuring a seamless transition for your departing flight. Until our paths cross again on your next adventure, safe travels!