Special Sri Lanka Tour for 8N/9D

Colombo – Departure  Morning: Relax and Final Exploration Morning at leisure: Enjoy your last morning in Sri Lanka at your hotel in Colombo. You could choose to relax at the hotel, take a final walk around Galle Face Green, or enjoy a leisurely breakfast while reflecting on your journey. If you’re interested, you can explore the Colombo National Museum or visit Mount Lavinia Beach for one last view of the ocean.  Last-Minute Shopping If you still have time before your flight, visit some local markets or ODEL for last-minute souvenirs or gifts to bring home. Sri Lanka is famous for its Ceylon tea, handicrafts, and batik textiles. Check-out & Transfer to Airport After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure. The drive to the airport takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour, depending on traffic. ✈️ Departure Arrive at the airport in time for your flight. Meals: Breakfast (Depending on your flight time, you may also have time to enjoy a light meal or snack at the airport)

Sigiriya – Dambulla – Matale – Kandy Dambulla Cave Temple After breakfast, depart Sigiriya and head toward Dambulla. Visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore five ancient caves filled with: Over 150 Buddha statues, including a 47-foot-long reclining Buddha Intricate frescoes depicting scenes from the life of Buddha Breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside from the top of the rock Matale Spice Garden & Gem Gallery Continue your journey to Matale, known for its spice plantations. Take a guided tour of a Spice Garden to learn about traditional herbs and spices used in Sri Lankan cooking and Ayurveda. Visit a Gem Gallery, where you can see how Sri Lanka’s world-renowned sapphires and other gemstones are processed. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – Kandy Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. This temple is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world and is richly adorned with traditional Kandyan architecture and spiritual ambiance. If time permits, enjoy a Kandyan cultural dance performance in the evening. Check-in & Overnight Stay Check-in at Hotel Topaz (4-star) in Kandy Enjoy an evening at leisure, with optional local dining or city exploration. Meals: Not included (Dinner available at the hotel or a local restaurant)

3: Kandy – Ramboda – Nuwara Eliya Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens After breakfast, visit the stunning Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. Spread across 147 acres, the gardens feature: A renowned orchid collection Towering royal palms Rare and exotic flora from around the world A peaceful stroll here offers a refreshing start to the day. Ramboda Hanuman Temple En route to Nuwara Eliya, stop at the Ramboda Hanumanji Temple, dedicated to Lord Hanuman, a key figure in the Ramayana. It is believed that Hanuman rested here during his search for Sita. The site offers panoramic mountain views and spiritual serenity. Tea Plantation & Ramboda Falls Visit a working tea plantation and tea factory to see how world-famous Ceylon tea is grown, processed, and packaged. Enjoy a complimentary cup of freshly brewed tea. Then, visit Ramboda Falls, one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful waterfalls, cascading from a height of 109 meters. Arrival & Explore Nuwara Eliya Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” for its cool climate and colonial-era charm. Take a relaxing drive around Gregory Lake, see Victorian-style architecture, and soak in the refreshing hill country air. Check-in & Overnight Stay Check-in at Araliya Red (4-star) in Nuwara Eliya Evening at leisure to explore the town or dine locally. Meals: Not included (Dinner available at the hotel or a local restaurant)

Nuwara Eliya – Seetha Amman Temple – Hakgala – Local Exploration Morning: Seetha Amman Temple & Ashoka Vatika After breakfast, visit the sacred Seetha Amman Temple, one of the most important Ramayana sites in Sri Lanka. It marks the place where Sita was held captive by Ravana. The temple houses idols of Sita, Rama, Lakshmana, and Hanuman, and has a tranquil atmosphere perfect for spiritual reflection. Adjacent is the legendary Ashoka Vatika, believed to be the garden where Sita waited for Rama. You can still find the Sita Eliya stream, where she is said to have bathed. Late Morning: Hakgala Botanical Garden Just a few minutes away is the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Garden. Historically associated with the Ramayana, it's believed to be a part of King Ravana's Ashoka garden. The garden features over 10,000 species of plants including orchids, roses, and ferns, with well-maintained walking paths. Afternoon: Explore Nuwara Eliya Town Return to town and enjoy the cool highland charm of Nuwara Eliya, also called Little England: Victoria Park – ideal for a walk or birdwatching Gregory Lake – enjoy a peaceful stroll or an optional boat ride Local markets – shop for tea, fresh produce, and souvenirs  Evening: Leisure Time Enjoy free time to relax at the hotel or dine at a cozy local restaurant. Optionally, visit a tea lounge or enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan meal in the town. Overnight Stay Araliya Red (4-star) – Nuwara Eliya Meals: Not included (Dinner optional)

Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Tissamaharama Morning: Scenic Drive to Ella After breakfast, check out from the hotel and drive toward Ella, a small town nestled in the highlands, known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance. This stretch of the journey offers some of the most picturesque mountain views in Sri Lanka. Ravana Falls & Ravana Cave En route, visit Ravana Falls, a majestic 82-foot-high waterfall linked to the Ramayana. According to legend, this is where Ravana hid Sita in the nearby caves after abducting her. Stop to admire the waterfall and take photos. Explore the Ravana Cave, believed to be part of the tunnel network King Ravana used. It’s a short hike (approx. 500 steps), but offers insight into ancient legends and panoramic views.  Optional: Nine Arches Bridge (If Time Permits) Visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic colonial-era railway viaduct hidden in the jungle. A favorite photo spot for travelers, especially when a train passes through. Afternoon: Continue to Tissamaharama After exploring Ella, continue your drive to Tissamaharama, gateway to the southern plains and Yala region. Check-in & Overnight Stay Check-in at Ekho Safari (4-star) – set near Tissa Lake, perfect for a relaxing evening. Enjoy sunset views or a peaceful walk by the lakeside. Meals: Not included (Dinner available at the hotel or nearby restaurant)

Tissamaharama – Galle – Bentota Optional Morning: Yala National Park Safari (Early Morning) If you choose to rise early, embark on an optional jeep safari in Yala National Park (starting around 5:30 AM). Famous for its high density of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and birdlife. Safari duration: Approx. 3–4 hours Return to hotel for freshening up and breakfast. Mid-Morning: Depart for Galle After breakfast (or post-safari), check out and proceed toward Galle, a historic port city on the southern coast. Enjoy scenic views of the southern coastline along the drive. Explore Galle Fort Visit the iconic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site built in the 17th century. Stroll along the ramparts, visit colonial buildings, art galleries, and quaint cafes. Highlights include the Galle Lighthouse, Old Dutch Hospital, and the All Saints' Church. Continue to Bentota In the late afternoon, continue to Bentota, a beautiful beach destination known for its golden sands and water activities. Check-in to your beach resort and relax after a scenic day. Overnight Stay Club Waskaduwa (4-star) – Bentota Enjoy your evening at leisure, either relaxing by the beach or enjoying a sunset walk. Meals: Not included (Optional dinner at resort or local seafood restaurant)

Bentota – Leisure Day in Bentota Morning: Relax at Bentota Beach Enjoy a leisurely morning by the beach in Bentota. Take a walk along the golden sandy shores, relax under a beach umbrella, or swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. For a more adventurous morning, try some water sports such as jet skiing, windsurfing, or a banana boat ride. Optional: Turtle Hatchery Visit If you're interested in wildlife and conservation, visit a turtle hatchery near Bentota. Learn about the efforts to protect endangered sea turtles, and if the season is right, you may witness the release of baby turtles into the sea. Madu River Boat Safari (Optional) Enjoy an optional boat ride on the Madu River. This serene boat ride will take you through mangrove forests, past small islands, and to traditional fishing villages. You can stop by some small temples and mangrove forests, making this an ideal opportunity for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Lunch: Local Cuisine by the Beach Savor local Sri Lankan cuisine at a beachfront restaurant. Try fresh seafood, Sri Lankan curry, or tropical fruits as you enjoy the coastal view. Evening: Sunset Views and Leisure In the late afternoon, relax on the beach or enjoy the sunset views over the Indian Ocean. You could also explore the local markets for souvenirs or shop for Sri Lankan handicrafts. Overnight Stay Check-in at Club Waskaduwa (4-star) or another hotel of your choice in Bentota. Enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure with a relaxing dinner at the hotel or a nearby restaurant. Meals: Not included (Optional dinner at the hotel or a local restaurant)

Bentota – Colombo Morning: Relaxation in Bentota Enjoy a leisurely morning in Bentota. You can relax on the golden beaches, take a refreshing swim in the Indian Ocean, or indulge in some water sports activities like jet skiing, windsurfing, or banana boat rides. Alternatively, you can take a boat ride on the Madu River (optional), which offers a scenic tour through mangrove forests and small islands. Optional Visit: Turtle Hatchery If you’re interested, you can visit a turtle hatchery (optional) near Bentota, where you’ll learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered sea turtles. The hatchery allows you to see baby turtles being released into the sea during certain times of the year. Late Morning: Travel to Colombo After lunch, check out from your hotel and embark on your drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling capital. The drive takes about 2 hours along the coastal road, offering pleasant views. Afternoon: Colombo City Tour Upon arrival, begin your Colombo city tour: Galle Face Green – A popular promenade along the coast Pettah Bazaar – A lively market area with colorful shops and street vendors Colombo Fort – The city’s business district, once the site of British colonial administration Dutch Church of Wolfendhal – A 17th-century Protestant church in the city Beira Lake and Gangaramaya Temple – An important Buddhist temple with a mix of modern and traditional architecture Check-in & Overnight Stay Check-in to your hotel in Colombo (hotel details depending on your booking) Enjoy your final evening in Sri Lanka, perhaps indulging in some local seafood or a Sri Lankan curry at a restaurant. Meals: Not included (Optional dinner at the hotel or local restaurant)

Arrival – Pinnawala – Sigiriya ✈️ Arrival in Sri Lanka Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be warmly welcomed by your English-speaking chauffeur/guide. Begin your journey toward the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. ? Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage En route to Sigiriya, stop at the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Witness over 65 elephants, including adorable baby elephants during: Feeding Time: 9:30 AM – 10:00 AM Bathing Time: 1:30 PM – 2:00 PM (in the river nearby) A heartwarming experience watching these gentle giants roam and play in their natural habitat. ?️ Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion Rock) Arrive in Sigiriya and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend the 600-ft rock to explore: Ancient royal palace ruins Beautiful frescoes of celestial maidens Mirror Wall and water gardens Breathtaking panoramic views from the summit Approximate climb time: 2.5 to 3 hours (moderate fitness required) ? Check-in & Overnight Stay Check-in at Sigiriya Village Hotel (4-star) Relax and unwind in a tranquil natural setting. Meals: Not included (Can dine at the hotel or local restaurant)