Arrive in Colombo / drive to Negombo

• The guests are escorted from the airport to the hotel in Negombo.
• Negombo: The sunny, coastal town of Negombo is a mere 30 minutes from the Bandaranaike International Airport, making it the ideal place to start or end your journey in Sri Lanka. Affectionately dubbed as ‘Little Rome’, Negombo offers a variety of things to see and do, from medieval churches, a noisy fish market and access to fresh seafood and some of the most scenic beaches on the island. The town’s rich history: with a predominant Dutch influence is evident throughout the town. The variety of things to do in Negombo are unlimited; from basking under the sun’s glow to being in the centre of the noisy Fish Market.
• Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo

Travel Information:

• Arrival in Colombo
• Transfer from airport to Negombo hotel

Overnight: Jetwing Blue or Similar

• After breakfast at the hotel, begin your journey inland towards Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka and the island’s last royal kingdom (approx. 2.5 hours’ drive).
• En route, visit the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, located in the village of Pinnawala, midway between Colombo and Kandy. Established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation, this sanctuary was created to care for orphaned and injured elephants found in the wild. Today, it remains one of the island’s most recognised wildlife conservation centres and offers an opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close.
• Continue onward to Kandy, a vibrant hill capital nestled amidst forested mountains and tea-clad landscapes in the central highlands. Rich in history and spiritual significance, Kandy is home to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and relax for the remainder of the day.

Experiences:

• Visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
• Visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic

Travel Information:

• Drive from Negombo to Kandy via Pinnawala
• Approx. 2.5 hours’ drive

Overnight: Earl's Regency Hotel or Similar

• After a scrumptious breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Garden (Approx. 25mins drive).
• The Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is a horticultural masterpiece spanning 147 acres. Established in the 14th century, it showcases a diverse collection of plant species, including orchids, palms, and medicinal plants. The garden's centrepiece is the avenue of royal palms. Visitors can explore themed sections like the stunning Orchid House and fragrant Spice Garden.
• Afterward proceed to Thotupola residence.
• Enjoy a typical Sri Lankan home cooking experience. Hands on experience of making delightful dishes to taste. Enjoy the prepared meal for lunch. After a scrumptious lunch, enjoy a city tour of Kandy.
• Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy
  

Experience:

• Visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens
• Sri Lankan home cooking experience
• Kandy city tour

Optional Experiences:

• Leisure time for local shopping
• Evening at leisure in Kandy

Travel Information:

• Short drive to Royal Botanical Gardens
• Local sightseeing within Kandy

Overnight: Earl's Regency Hotel or Similar

• After breakfast, check out and drive onwards to the scenic hill country town of Nuwara Eliya (approx. 2.5 hours’ drive), often fondly referred to as “Little England.”
• Set amidst rolling hills, mist-covered tea plantations, and cool mountain air, Nuwara Eliya is one of Sri Lanka’s most charming highland retreats. A favourite escape during the British colonial era, the town still retains much of its old-world character through its colonial-era bungalows, Tudor-style architecture, churches, gardens, and golf courses.
• Upon arrival, continue to visit a local tea factory and tea estate, where you will gain insight into one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic exports — Ceylon tea. From the lush tea-covered slopes of the central highlands to the delicate process of plucking, processing, and tasting, this experience offers a fascinating look into the island’s tea heritage and its enduring cultural and economic significance.
• Later, check in to your hotel and enjoy the cool, tranquil atmosphere of the hill country.

Experience:

• Visit to a local tea factory

Optional Experiences:

• Leisure walk through Nuwara Eliya town. Explore the town’s colonial charm at your own pace

Travel Information:

• Drive from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Approx. 2.5 hours’ drive

Overnight: The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya or Similar

• After breakfast, continue your journey through the scenic highlands towards Ella (approx. 2 hours’ drive), one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque hill country destinations.
• Surrounded by lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and dramatic valleys, Ella is a charming town celebrated for its natural beauty and laid-back atmosphere. Known for iconic landmarks such as the Nine Arch Bridge, Little Adam’s Peak, and Ravana Falls, Ella offers some of the island’s most captivating hill-country views and a refreshing contrast to the cultural heartlands.
• After spending time amidst the cool mountain landscapes, continue your drive onwards to Yala (approx. 3 hours’ drive), located along Sri Lanka’s southern coast and home to one of the country’s most celebrated wildlife reserves.
• Upon arrival, set out for an afternoon game drive in Yala National Park, a vast wilderness known for its rich biodiversity, scenic landscapes, and opportunities to spot wildlife in its natural habitat. The park is one of the best places in Sri Lanka to experience the island’s wild side, with sightings often including elephants, crocodiles, deer, exotic birdlife, and if fortunate, even the elusive leopard.
• Later, return to your hotel for an overnight stay in Yala.

Experience:

• Afternoon game drive in Yala National Park

Optional Experience:

• Short stop for viewpoints in Ella (subject to time permitting)

Overnight: Jetwing Yala or Similar

• After a leisurely breakfast at the resort, continue your journey towards Galle (approx. 3 hours’ drive), one of Sri Lanka’s most charming and historic coastal towns.
• Set along the island’s southern coastline, Galle is a captivating blend of colonial architecture, oceanfront charm, and cultural character. Best known for its beautifully preserved fortified old town, Galle reflects centuries of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence, making it one of the most atmospheric destinations in Sri Lanka.
• Upon arrival, visit the iconic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the finest examples of a fortified colonial city in Asia. Walk along its ancient ramparts and cobbled lanes as you discover a world of historic landmarks, charming boutiques, cafés, churches, and sea-facing viewpoints. With its old-world ambience and seaside setting, the fort offers a delightful glimpse into Sri Lanka’s layered past.
• Later, check in to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Experience:

• Visit to the Galle Dutch Fort

Travel Information:

• Drive from Yala to Galle. Approx. 3 hours’ drive

Overnight: Radisson Blu Resort or Similar

After enjoying a scrumptious breakfast, your chauffeur will safely drive you to the Colombo airport for your departure (Approx. 2.5hrs drive).