Hill Country Escape

Your Sri Lankan adventure begins as you are warmly welcomed at the Bandaranaike International Airport. From there, you will be escorted to your private vehicle and begin the scenic drive into the island's captivating Cultural Triangle.

Your first stop is the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a revered UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend to this ancient temple complex, nestled within a massive granite outcrop, and discover a breathtaking series of five caves. Inside, you will be awe-struck by a stunning collection of over 150 statues and intricate ceiling murals depicting the life of Lord Buddha, all preserved for more than two millennia.

After this spiritual and historical immersion, continue your journey to the nearby town of Habarara. Check into your hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's discoveries. Enjoy a delicious dinner and a peaceful evening, preparing for more adventures to come. Overnight stay in Habarana.

After breakfast, journey back in time to the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, another dazzling UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the sprawling ruins of this ancient kingdom by bicycle or vehicle, coming face-to-face with a remarkably well-preserved civilization. Marvel at the grand Royal Palace complex, the sacred Quadrangle with its exquisite stone carvings, and the serene, iconic Buddha statues at the Gal Vihara, masterpieces of ancient Sinhalese rock sculpture.

In the afternoon, prepare for a complete change of pace as you embark on an exciting Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park. The park's centerpiece is the vast Minneriya Tank, which acts as a magnet for wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for the famous herds of Sri Lankan elephants gathering to bathe and socialize. You might also spot spotted deer, sambar, toque macaques, and a spectacular variety of birdlife in this incredible ecosystem.

As the sun sets on an unforgettable day, return to your hotel in Habarana. Relax and share stories of ancient kings and wild encounters over a delightful dinner. Your overnight stay in Habarana ensures you are perfectly placed for another day of exploration.

Rise early to conquer the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ascend this ancient rock citadel in the cool of the morning, passing the beautifully preserved frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' and the massive 'Lion's Paw' gateway. Your effort is rewarded at the summit with breathtaking, panoramic views of the surrounding jungle and a fascinating exploration of the ruins of King Kasyapa's majestic palace.

Descend and immerse yourself in authentic Sri Lankan culture with a Village Tour. Travel by bullock cart and traditional boat through the countryside to a local family's home. Experience their way of life firsthand and gain insight into rural traditions. The tour culminates in a delicious, home-cooked lunch, featuring fresh, local ingredients and classic Sri Lankan flavors.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon with time to relax by the pool and reminisce about your morning achievements and cultural immersion. Enjoy another peaceful evening and your final overnight stay in Habarana.

After breakfast, depart Habarana and journey towards the picturesque hill capital of Kandy. Your first enchanting stop is at the Space Garden, a unique and tranquil oasis. Stroll through this beautifully landscaped garden, a marvel of organic architecture, where whimsical structures and vibrant flora create a serene and almost otherworldly atmosphere, offering a perfect peaceful start to the day.

Continue to Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, nestled amidst lush green mountains. Explore this vibrant city, visiting a renowned gem museum and a working spice garden where you can discover the aromatic spices that are the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine.

The spiritual highlight of your day awaits at the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Witness the profound devotion at this temple, which houses the country’s most important Buddhist relic. Absorb the serene and powerful atmosphere as you explore its beautiful architecture and learn about its deep significance.

In the evening, be captivated by a vibrant Cultural Dance Show. Be enthralled by traditional Kandyan dancers, drummers, and performers as they showcase a spectacular array of Sri Lanka’s rich folk art and energetic rituals, including the famous fire-walking ceremony.

After a day filled with culture and spirituality, check into your hotel in Kandy for a relaxing evening and your overnight stay.

After breakfast, bid farewell to Kandy and ascend into the cool, refreshing hills of Sri Lanka's tea country. Your first stop is the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya. Wander through these magnificent 147-acre gardens, a paradise of lush lawns, towering trees, and beautifully curated orchids. Marvel at the giant Java fig tree on the great circle and enjoy the stunning array of tropical flora from across the globe.

Continue your journey into the heart of the highlands, where the landscape transforms into a breathtaking tapestry of emerald green tea terraces. Visit a working Tea Factory to witness the fascinating process of how Ceylon tea is made, from withering and rolling to fermenting and drying. Conclude your visit with a tasting of the world's finest, freshest cup of tea while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding plantations.

Arrive in the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, fondly known as 'Little England'. With its colonial-era bungalows, well-tended hedges, and a cool climate, you'll feel transported to another era. Check into your hotel, where you can cozy up by a fireplace and enjoy the crisp mountain air. Your overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya promises a tranquil and refreshing experience.

After a leisurely breakfast, prepare for one of the most picturesque drives on the island as you head straight to Ella. This journey is a highlight in itself, winding through the breathtaking landscapes of the central highlands. You'll pass endless rolling hills blanketed in vibrant tea plantations, dramatic waterfalls cascading down misty slopes, and charming villages that dot the countryside.

Upon arrival in the charming hill town of Ella, you'll be captivated by its laid-back atmosphere and stunning natural beauty. Check into your hotel, where you can relax on your balcony and soak in the magnificent views of the surrounding valleys and iconic peaks like Ella Rock.

The remainder of your day is free at your leisure. You may choose to explore the small town center, visit a local tea shop, or simply relax and breathe in the cool, fresh mountain air. Your overnight stay in Ella allows you to fully immerse yourself in the serene and tranquil vibe of this mountain paradise.

Awaken in the serene hills of Ella, with a full day to explore the natural wonders that make this town a highlight of the highlands. Your day is dedicated to adventure and breathtaking scenery.

Choose to embark on a memorable hike to the summit of Little Adam's Peak, where a relatively gentle climb is rewarded with panoramic, postcard-perfect views of the lush Ella Gap and the surrounding tea estates. For the more adventurous, the challenge of climbing Ella Rock offers an even more spectacular vantage point over the entire region.

No visit is complete without walking the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era engineering set amidst dense jungle. Time your visit to witness a train chugging across the majestic stone viaduct, creating a truly unforgettable sight.

After a day of exploration, return to your hotel to relax and perhaps enjoy a cup of world-famous Ceylon tea grown in the very hills you've been exploring. Enjoy another peaceful overnight stay in Ella, surrounded by the cool, misty air and the sounds of the mountains.

After breakfast, depart from the cool highlands of Ella and begin your journey towards the sunny southern coast. Your first stop is a site of historical intrigue at the Buduruwagala Buddhist Statues. This ancient rock temple features seven magnificent figures carved into a large rock face, dating back to the 9th or 10th century. The towering 51-foot Buddha statue at the center is particularly impressive, offering a serene and lesser-visited glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich spiritual past.

Next, prepare for an exhilarating change of pace with a thrilling Jeep Safari in Yala National Park. As Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife sanctuary, Yala offers one of the highest probabilities of spotting the elusive leopard in the wild. Keep your camera ready as you traverse through diverse habitats, also looking out for elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a spectacular array of birdlife.

After your wild adventure, continue to the coastal paradise of Mirissa. Check into your beachside hotel, where the sound of the waves welcomes you. As the sun sets, you can relax on the golden sands or enjoy a delicious seafood dinner. Your overnight stay in Mirissa sets the stage for beachside relaxation.

Today is yours to fully unwind and soak up the blissful coastal atmosphere of Mirissa. With no set schedule, you have the freedom to relax and enjoy this tropical paradise at your own pace.

Spend your day lounging on the golden, crescent-shaped beach, listening to the gentle rhythm of the Indian Ocean waves. Take a refreshing dip in the sea, curl up with a book under the shade of a palm tree, or simply bask in the warm tropical sun.

You may choose to explore the charming beach town, perhaps climbing to the top of the iconic Palm Tree Hill for a breathtaking panoramic view of the coastline. As the day draws to a close, find a perfect spot to witness a spectacular sunset painting the sky in hues of orange and pink.

Enjoy another delightful overnight stay in Mirissa, lulled to sleep by the soothing sound of the ocean.

Enjoy a final, leisurely breakfast overlooking the ocean, savoring the last moments of the island's serene atmosphere. Depending on your flight schedule, you may have some free time for one last stroll along the beautiful beach of Mirissa, collecting seashells and memories.

You will then be escorted from your hotel to the Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your departure. As you travel, reflect on the incredible journey through ancient kingdoms, misty highlands, wild parks, and golden shores.

We wish you a safe and pleasant flight home, filled with unforgettable memories of your adventure in Sri Lanka.