The Grand Sri Lanka Expedition

OVERVIEW

EXPLORE & WITNESS THE “PARADISE OF ASIA” IN 11 NIGHTS 12 DAYS – THE VACATION OF A LIFETIME

HISTORICAL AND RELIGEOUS SITES

• Nalanda Gedige Temple – Centre of Sri Lanka
• Dambulla Cave Temple
• Polonnaruwa Ancient City
• Koneswaram Hindu Temple
• Samadhi Buddha Statue
• Ruwaweliseya Stupa
• Sri Maha Bodi Tree
• Kuttam Pokuna
• Japanese Peace Pagoda
• Mahamewna Buddhist Monastery
• Dondra Head Light House
• Kande Vihara Temple – Tallest buddha Statue
• Trincomalee Fredric Fort
• Red Mosque – Colombo

 

 

DETAILED ITINERARY

 

Day 01 – Arrival

1. Arrival at BIA
2. Chauffer will be waiting at the arrival lobby with the Guests’ name board
3. Start heading towards Colombo
4. Check in to the Hotel in Colombo

Activities / Visits for the Day (If time permits and guests are comfortable enough)

1. Visit to the Gangaramaya Temple
2. Visit to the Independence Square
3. Visit to the Lotus Tower

Night Stay in Colombo

 

Day 02

1. Pickup from the Hotel at Colombo
2. Start heading towards Madulkelle

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Huluganga Ella waterfall
2. Lunch at a local house including a cooking demonstration where the guests cook with the family. Shop for vegetables to cook at the local market with a family member. (depend on the time and date)
3. Check in at the hotel
4. Visit to the Jodu Ella Waterfall in the afternoon (Having a bath is possible)

Night stay in Madulkelle

 

Day 03

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Hiking at the Knuckles Mountain range in the morning
2. Visit to the Sare Ella Waterfall

Start Heading towards Sigiriya

3. Visit to the Nalanda Gedige Temple – The center point of Sri Lanka

Nalanda Gedige is an ancient stone temple, believed to have been built between the 8th and 10th centuries, it uniquely blends Hindu and Buddhist architectural elements. The temple’s location marks the geographical center of the island, making it a symbolic and cultural landmark in Sri Lanka.

4. Visit an Herbal and spice garden to experience world renowned Sri Lankan spices, how they grow & how to use them.

Sri Lanka has been famous for an exquisite range of spices for centuries. It’s these spices that are largely behind the mouth-watering flavors of Sri Lankan cuisine, be it curry of vegetable, red or white meat, fish or seafood or even some sweetmeat.

Check in at the hotel in Sigiriya

Night stay in Sigiriya

 

 

Day 04

1. Pick up from the hotel at Sigiriya (Early Pick up at 5.30am)
2. Transfer to the safari starting point at Minneriya National / Hurulu ECO Park.

Note – A breakfast pack issued (on request) by the hotel can be enjoyed in the middle of the Minneriya Forest.

3. 03 hours of the ultimate Wild life experience

Capture the golden opportunity to witness Asia’s largest gathering of mighty elephants, wandering in the green grassland overlooking the beautiful Minneriya reservoir. Enjoy the flicker of monkeys swinging through the branches and search the forest for the sight of leopards, sloth bears, mongooses, spotted deer, sambar deer, wild buffalo, porcupine and Indian pangolins.

4. Start heading towards the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa

A World Heritage Site famous for its well-preserved ruins of the ancient Sinhalese civilization. Mahāvaṃsa place the founding of the city in 437 BCE a major human settlement on the island for almost three millennia and one of the oldest cities in Asia. It is the cradle of the Sinhalese civilization, Theravada Buddhism, and the longest-serving ancient capital of Sri Lanka.

5. Visit to a Gem Museum / Gallery

Similarly to Tea Sri Lanka also popular for some of World’s most admired gems. The Sri Lankan Blue Sapphire is considered the best in the world. Apart from spices, Gems were one of the main interests of all the European invaders. Here you will get a demonstration gem mining and to witness a gem Museum / Gallery comprising some of the rearrest of them. 

Return back to the Hotel in Sigiriya and spend the rest of the afternoon leisurely at the hotel

Check in at the hotel in Sigiriya

Night stay in Sigiriya

 

Day 05

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress for the Sunrise

This historic venue is considered as the 8^th wonder of the world which is also a UNESCO world heritage site. A complete Palace built on top of the rock and a complete fortress around the rock.

A breakfast pack issued by the hotel can be enjoyed while enjoying sunrise at the top

Back to the hotel to rest

2. Village tour with lunch –

Farm to table homemade lunch buffet in an authentic village house in the middle of farm fields including a short bull cart ride in the jungle and a Catamaran Lake ride

3. Experience a SPA session at Athreya Ayurvedic Ashram (Cost depends on the package chosen)
4. Enjoy a Cultural Show at the Habarana Cultural Centre (6.00 pm)

A vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage, featuring traditional dance, music, and drumming. Visitors can witness captivating performances such as the Kandyan dance, fire walking, and folk dances that reflect the island’s ancient customs and rituals.

Return back to the Hotel

Night stay in Sigiriya

 

Day 06

Breakfast at the Hotel

Pick up from the hotel and Start Heading towards Trincomalee

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit Dambulla Cave Temple.

Dambulla cave temple is one of the most important ancient temples in the world. The temple which is built within a rock goes back in history of the Buddhist Culture for thousands of years.

2. Visit to the Kanniya Hot water springs on the Way
3. Visit to the Koneswaram Hindu Temple

Check in to the Hotel at Trincomalee

Spend the rest of the leisurely at the Hotel

Night stay in Trincomalee

 

 

Day 07

Pick up from the hotel

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the ‘Pigeon Island Marine National Park’ for Snorkeling in the morning
2. Visit to the Trincomalee Fort (Fort Fredrick)
3. Visit to the Trincomalee Deer feeding point

Return Back to the Hotel

Night stay in Trincomalee

 

Day 08

Pick up from the hotel

Start Heading towards Anuradhapura

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit the Kala Weva Lake on the way
2. Visit to the Sri Maha Bodi Tree
3. Visit to the Ruwanveli Maha Seya Stupa
4. Visit to the Jetwana Stupa

Check in to the hotel in Anuradhapura

Night stay in Anuradhapura

 

Day 09

Pick up from the hotel

Start Heading towards Wilpattu

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Samadhi Buddha Statue
2. Visit to the Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds) on the Way

Check in to the Hotel in Wilpattu

Night stay in Wilpattu

 

 

Day 10

Pick up from the hotel early in the morning

Full day in Wilpattu

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. A safari at the Wilpattu National Park

• Guests have the option of choosing a Full day or a Half Day
• A full day safari is advised for a better chance of sighting especially leopards and Bears. Lunch will be provided by the safari service provider at the park.
• However, if the half day safari is chosen other visits can be arranged or the guests can spend the rest of the day at the hotel

Check in to the hotel in Wilpattu

Night stay in Wilpattu

 

Day 11

• Breakfast at the Hotel
• Late Pick up from the hotel
• Start Heading towards Kandy

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Sacred Temple of the tooth Relic

The number one tourism landmark in the world “

The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a world-renowned place of worship, where the left Canine tooth of Lord Buddha is enshrined. The temple which is venerated by thousands of local & foreign devotees and tourists daily was named as a world heritage by UNESCO in 1988

2. Visit to the Kandy view Point

Heading to the hotel in Kandy

Check in to the Hotel

Night stay in Kandy

 

Day 12

Breakfast at the Hotel

Pickup from the Hotel in Kandy – 8.00am

Activities / Visits for the Day

Start heading towards the City of Nuwara Eliya

1. Visit to the Ambuluwawa Tower (Depends on time)

Exploring its essence, Ambuluwawa unfolds as more than just the tower’s name; it embodies the towering mountain, rising proudly at 3,567 feet. Perched atop this majestic mountain lies the Ambuluwawa Tower, offering a panoramic view from the highest point of Ambuluwawa Mountain.

2. Visit the Ramboda View Point on the way
3. Visit the amazing Ramboda Waterfall on the way
4. Visit to the Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden

Experience the legacy of tea at Damro Labookellie Tea Lounge and Factory, an iconic estate with over 150 years of history in Sri Lanka’s tea culture. Discover the intricate process of tea production with a tour of the factory and estate, followed by a complimentary tea tasting session. Nestled in the serene landscapes of Nuwara Eliya, this charming locale offers weary travelers a tranquil retreat to unwind and breathe in the fresh mountain air.

5. Hike to the Bomburu Ella Water Fall

Bomburu Ella, also known as Perawella Falls is a waterfall in Sri Lanka and consists of several small waterfalls grouped together. The source of the falls is a lake located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka

Heading to the hotel in Nuwaraeliya

Check in to the Hotel

Night stay in Nuwaraeliya

 

 

Day 13

Early Morning Pick up from the Hotel (4.30am)

Start Heading towards the ‘Horton Plains’ for Sunrise

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. A mesmerizing hike at the ‘Horton Plains’

The Horton Plains hike is an enchanting journey through Sri Lanka’s highest plateau, located in the central highlands. This 9.5 km circular trail takes you through misty grasslands, cloud forests, and past striking landmarks like Baker’s Falls and World’s End, a dramatic cliff with breathtaking views. Known for its biodiversity, the hike offers a chance to see unique flora and fauna, including samba dears, colorful birds, and rare plant species, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

2. Lunch at one of the best Indian cuisine restaurants in Sri Lanka located in Nuwara Eliya
3. Visit to the “Moon Plains” in the afternoon

Moon Plains, also known as Sandathenna, is a 400-metre long, 40-meter-deep valley in Ranhawadigama, about 6km from Nuwara Eliya Standing at a surface elevation of 6,200 ft. It provides visitors with an amazing panoramic view of the countryside and peaks that surround it including the Mini World’s End’, a peak with a sharp drop, offering you a stunning look at the landscape below.

Evening walk at the Gregory Lake Park / Relax the rest of the day at the hotel

Night stay in Nuwara Eliya

 

Day 14

Breakfast at the Hotel

Late Pick up from the Hotel for the train ride

Relax at the hotel in the morning

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Drop off at the Nanu-Oya Railway station
2. “Nuwara Eliya” to “Ella” – The train ride of a life time

Nuwara Eliya to Ella Train journey is ranked as the 7^th best scenic train ride in the world by ‘Lonely Planet’ travelling through lush green tea estates / waterfalls / many tunnels which gives you a beautiful / joyful memory.

(The 02^nd Class coach is booked due to the experience. In 1^st class coaches the windows cannot be opened whereas in 02^nd class it can be. The starting point of the train which is ‘Nuwara Eliya’ is the coldest city in the country. Therefore, it is always nice to do the train ride with cold breeze and experiencing the scenic view.)

The chauffer will be travelling to the Ella Railway Station with your luggage to pick you up after the Train ride

3. Visit the Nine-Arches bridge in Ella

Also called the “Bridge in the Sky” is a viaduct bridge in Sri Lanka. It is one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in the country. This bridge is 300 feet in length, 25 feet in width and 80-100 feet in height. Arguably one of the most admired rail bridges in the world

Check in to the Hotel in Ella

Night stay in Ella

 

Day 15

Pickup from the Hotel – 4.30am

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Early morning visit to the Lipton Seat for the Sun Rise

Lipton’s Seat is a popular vantage point, from where Mr. Thomas Lipton would sit with a cup of tea in hand and proudly look over his estate. Today, you can still have one of the best views from the lookout, and there is even a life-sized statue of Mr. Lipton on a bench to take pictures with! From here you will see one of the most breathtaking views, as the sun rises, the hills turn from a dark blue to vibrant green

2. Visit to the Adisham Bungalow

The Adisham Bungalow was once the country house of Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, but today it houses the Adisham Monastery of the St. Benedict. Constructed in 1931, the house was designed in the Tudor style and fashioned after the Leeds Castle in Kent- Sir Thomas Villiers even named it after the village he was born in and has all the trappings of what you would imagine an English mansion would have.

Return to the Hotel and Rest

3. Hike to the ‘Little Adam’s Peak’ in the afternoon

The Little Adam’s Peak hike in Ella is a scenic and accessible trek that offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding valleys, tea plantations, and mountains. Named for its resemblance to the sacred Adam’s Peak, this hike takes around 30-45 minutes to reach the summit. The path is well-marked and suitable for all levels, making it a popular spot for travelers looking to experience Sri Lanka’s lush landscapes

Back to the Hotel

Night Stay in Ella

 

 

Day 16

Pickup from the Hotel

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Kumbalwela Mahmewnava Buddhist Monastery

Start Heading towards Udawalawe

2. Visit to the amazing Ravana Falls on the way
3. Currently ranks as one of the widest water falls in the country. The falls have been named after the legendary king Ravana, who is connected to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana. During the local wet season, the waterfall turns into what is said to resemble an areca flower with withering petals.

Check in to the Hotel at Udawalawe

4. Village Walk at Udawalawe

The breathtaking view of the paddy fields and various types of agriculture areas will mesmerize your eyes. you can join your hands at reaping the harvest and co – work with village farmers. Fallowing the heartfelt welcome make it as your day by getting the first-hand experience of making delicious authentic Sri Lanka dish with farm grown fresh vegetables. A village woman will reveal you some top secrets on how to make your dish more aromatic and yummier!!!

Back to the Hotel

Night Stay in Udawalawe

 

Day 17

Breakfast at the hotel

Pickup from the Hotel – 9.00am

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Elephant Transit Home

The Elephant Transit Home, located near Udawalawe National Park, is a rehabilitation center dedicated to orphaned and injured elephants in Sri Lanka. Here, baby elephants receive care and nurturing with the goal of reintroducing them into the wild once they are old enough. Visitors can observe feeding times from a viewing platform, witnessing the gentle care given to these elephants as they prepare for their return to nature. It’s a heartwarming experience that supports conservation efforts and promotes awareness about protecting Sri Lanka’s elephant population.

Note – The guests have the option of doing a safari at the Udawalawe National Park instead

Start heading towards Bundala

Check in to the Hotel in Bundala

Night Stay in Bundala

 

Day 18

Pickup from the Hotel – 5.30am

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Morning bird watching at the Bundala National Park

The best bird watching destination in the country

Back to the Hotel for Breakfast

Start heading towards Galle – Starting of the Beach Holiday

2. Visit to the Dondra Head Lighthouse – The southern most point of Sri Lanka
3. Visit to the Secret Beach in Mirissa

Secret Beach Mirissa, is a small hidden beach with a bay area just around the corner of the town’s main beach, Mirissa Beach. It should definitely be on your list of places to visit in Mirissa. While the beach has gained more popularity in recent years, it still doesn’t attract as many visitors as the main beach, and so it is still somewhat of a hidden gem.

The best thing about Secret Beach is its surroundings; the beach is nestled in a cove and flanked by small hills covered in lush green palm trees on either side which creates a number of smaller beaches.

4. Visit to the Coconut Tree Hill

Having made its way to almost every traveler’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 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.

Check in to the Hotel in Galle

Night Stay in Galle

 

 

Day 19

Relax at the hotel in the morning

Pickup from the hotel – 1.00pm

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Jungle Beach

Jungle Beach is a pretty bay nestled in a forested area. It is one of the secret gems of Sri Lanka which has everything to make your holiday experience one of its kind. The place retains its pristine natural charm as it is not ventured by a large number of tourists throughout the year due to its secluded location. Jungle Beach offers a plethora of water sports such as snorkeling, scuba diving, swimming, boat ride and many more. The reefs jutting out of water a few meters offshore make a good site for snorkeling which introduces you to the exotic marine life of the region.

2. Visit to the Japanese Peace Pagoda

The Peace Pagoda is on the hillside of the Galle Fort and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The Mahayana sect built the Peace Pagoda as an initiative to establish peace in the Sri Lankan conflict zone. The Pagoda is a spectacle to witness, especially when you view it from the side of Unawatuna, which makes it look like it has grown out of the jungle. The Peace Pagoda is on the hillside of the Galle Fort and is a beautiful and peaceful place to visit.

3. Visit to the Galle Dutch fort for sunset view

The Galle Fort, or Dutch Fort as it is also known, is a fortification first built by the Portuguese on the Southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. The initial fortifications, which were built in the late 16th century, were quite basic. However, the fort underwent extensive modifications in the 17th century by the Dutch, making it one of the most important archeological, architectural and historic monuments to illustrate the European influence in South East Asia between the 16th and 19th centuries. According to a statement by UNESCO the site was recognized as a World Heritage Site for its unique exposition of an urban ensemble which illustrates the interaction of European architecture and South Asian traditions from the 16th to the 19th centuries which is the criterion number four for such recognition.

Back to the hotel

Night stay in Galle

 

Day 20

Relax the morning in the Hotel

Pickup from the Hotel – 11.00am

Start heading towards Bentota

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. A visit to a sea turtle conservation Centre

The main aim of the project is to conserve the sea turtles and protect them from predators like birds, dogs, and crabs. Tourists will be guided throughout the process of protecting and proper hatching of the sea turtles while visiting the hatchery. One can also visit the hatchery in the evening when the baby turtles are released into the sea as the risk for predators is minimum at this time and get the opportunity to release their baby sea turtle into the sea.

2. Madu river Boat safari

The amphibic landscape of Maduganga is Sri Lanka’s largest remaining mangrove swamp, home to several fish and reptile species. It’s a fantastic birding territory, too. Madu Ganga Wetland is inhabited by more than 300 species of plants and almost 250 species of vertebrate animals. Due to its rich biodiversity, Madu Ganga was listed under the International Ramsar Convention on Wetlands, an international treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands. The Convention on Wetlands is named after the city of Ramsar in Iran, where it was signed in 1971.

Check in to the Hotel at Bentota (Beach Hotel as per availability)

Night Stay in Bentota

 

Day 21

Pickup from the Hotel – As early as comfortable to the guests

Start heading towards Colombo

Activities / Visits for the Day

1. Visit to the Sinharaja Rain Forest (03 Hour Walk in the jungle)
2. Visit to the Kande Vihara Temple – Tallest Buddha Statue in the Country
3. Check in to the Hotel in Colombo

Explore Colombo in the afternoon

4. Visit to the Independence Square
5. Visit to the Red Mosque
6. Visit to the Colombo Light House
7. A walk in the Galle Face Green (An iconic beach strip in the heart of Colombo)
8. Final dinner in the island at a renowned restaurant in the heart of Colombo

(Complimentary by the Company)

Night Stay in Colombo

 

 

Day 22 – Departure

 

END OF TOUR