Itinerary
- Day 1
Sigiriya
You'll arrive and head straight to Sigiriya, the 5th century rock fortress that rises 500 feet above the surrounding landscape. The climb takes you through ancient palace foundations and gardens, with historic frescoes still visible on the rock face. It's physically demanding but the views from the top make it worthwhile, and you'll get a real sense of how strategic this location was centuries ago.
- Meals
- Breakfast
Included Activities
- Visit Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - explore the 5th century fortress, palace ruins, and ancient Sinhala frescoes
Landmarks/POIs Sigiriya The Ancient Rock Fortress - Day 2
Polonnaruwa
The drive to Polonnaruwa brings you to an archaeological park that sprawls across the area where a thriving kingdom existed 800 years ago. You'll walk through temples, stupas, statues, and tombs scattered throughout the grounds. The Quadrangle section is particularly worth your time, with structures packed closely together and plenty of detail to take in.
Included Activities
- Explore Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park - ancient structures including temples, stupas, statues, and tombs
Landmarks/POIs Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park - Day 3
Kandy
Heading to Kandy, you'll reach Sri Lanka's hill capital and the last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the main draw here, and the city has numerous other temples and monasteries showing Buddhist traditions throughout. The setting in the hills gives it a different feel from the coastal areas.
Included Activities
- Visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - explore Kandy's most sacred Buddhist site
Landmarks/POIs Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic - Day 4
Nuwara Eliya
You'll travel to Nuwara Eliya, which locals call 'Little England' because of its colonial architecture and mountain setting. The town is surrounded by mountains, valleys, and tea plantations, with buildings that look like English country cottages and Victorian mansions. Walking through here, you'll feel like you've stepped into a different era and place entirely.
Optional Activities
- Visit Nuwara Eliya Golf Course - play golf at this historic course
Landmarks/POIs Nuwara Eliya Golf Course - Day 5
Ella
This day centers on one of the world's most scenic train rides from Kandy to Ella, passing through Nanuoya on the way. The journey winds through the central highlands with constantly changing views of mountains and valleys. You'll arrive in Ella, a quiet mountain village where you can spend the afternoon exploring the local area and getting your bearings.
Included Activities
- Scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella via Nanuoya
Optional Activities
- Visit Ella Rock - hike to views over the Ella valley
Landmarks/POIs Ella Rock - Day 6
Udawalawe National Park
You'll spend your day at Udawalawe National Park, a wildlife sanctuary located on the boundary between two provinces. This natural reserve protects the Udawalawe Reservoir and serves as home to wild animals roaming freely. Safari or guided tours give you the best chance of spotting creatures in their natural habitat throughout the day.
Included Activities
- Visit Udawalawe National Park - wildlife viewing and nature exploration
Landmarks/POIs Udawalawe National Park - Day 7
Colombo
Your final day takes you to Mirissa Beach, one of the main beach destinations along southern Sri Lanka's coast. You can spend time on the shores, try surfing if conditions allow, or look into whale watching tours. After relaxing and grabbing lunch at one of the local restaurants, you'll transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight home.
Optional Activities
- Visit Mirissa Beach - enjoy the beach, surfing, whale watching, and local bars and restaurants
Landmarks/POIs Mirissa Beach Colombo Fort
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