Spectacular Ceylon

When you arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, our representative will assist you with your transfer to Jetwing Blue, your accommodation for the enchanting starting point of your 13-day adventure through Spectacular Ceylon. Prepare to embark on a journey that seamlessly blends history, culture, and natural beauty, with Negombo setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation: Jetwing Blue (Deluxe Room)

Begin your day with a sumptuous breakfast, preparing for an enriching journey to Dambulla. Upon arrival, delve into the cultural treasures of the Dambulla Cave Temple, situated on a towering rock mass that stands 500 feet high and spans a mile around its base. Dating back to the First Century BC, this historic site served as a refuge for King Walagamba during his 14-year exile from Anuradhapura. Witness the grandeur of the Rock Temples he constructed upon reclaiming the throne, featuring a 47-foot-long reclining Buddha and 150 life-size statues of Buddhist gods. Adorned with frescoes dating from the 15th and 18th centuries. These caves offer a captivating glimpse into the region's artistic heritage. Later, journey to Sigiriya and check into our hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Kandalama Dambulla (Superior room)

Start the day with an early breakfast and head to Sigiriya to explore the renowned Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring a palace ruin. Marvel at the frescoes and panoramic views from the summit. Afterward, journey to Hiriwadunna for a trek through an idyllic Sri Lankan village, where you can enjoy bird-watching, take a catamaran ride, experience a bullock cart excursion, and savor a home-cooked Sri Lankan meal. Return to Sigiriya to round off a day filled with historical wonders and authentic village experiences.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation: Heritance Kandalama Dambulla (Superior room)

Embark on an enriching day after breakfast with an excursion to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, located 134 miles from Colombo and renowned as the island's medieval capital following the decline of Anuradhapura. Explore historical landmarks, including the King's Council Chamber, Royal Citadel, Kumara Pokuna, Royal Pavilion, Vatadage Relic House, and the well-preserved Kiri Vehera dagaba. Witness the awe-inspiring Gal Vihare with colossal Buddha sculptures, showcasing the grandeur of ancient Sri Lankan artistry. Following Polonnaruwa, proceed to Minneriya for an exciting jeep safari in Minneriya National Park. This park, a dry-season feeding ground for elephants, also harbors rare and endangered species such as the Sri Lankan Leopard and Sloth bear. Designated as a wildlife sanctuary to protect the watershed of Minneriya tank, the park holds historical significance, dating back to its construction by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. Conclude the day with a return to Jetwing Vil Uyana for a relaxing evening.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Kandalama Dambulla (Superior room)

Embark on a scenic drive from Sigiriya to Kandy, Sri Lanka's picturesque highland capital and the last stronghold of Sri Lankan kings against European conquest from the 16th to the 19th centuries. Nestled 1,607 feet above sea level amidst tea and spice gardens, mountains, a lake, and a river, Kandy is a sanctuary of traditional culture and the island's most visited tourist resort. The journey from Colombo through the Kadugannawa and Balane passes is picturesque and dramatic, reminiscent of a medieval mountain stronghold. Upon arrival in Kandy, transfer to your hotel. In the evening, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a site of great reverence since the 4th century A.D. Legend has it that the Buddha's Tooth, brought to Sri Lanka hidden in an Orissan princess' hair, is considered the country's most prized possession. Conclude the day's exploration with a captivating Cultural Show. (Driving distance from Sigiriya to Kandy is 2.5 hours)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Earl’s Regency (Deluxe room)

Following breakfast, embark on a fascinating train journey to Nanu Oya, whisking you into the heart of Sri Lanka's tea country, where workers meticulously process the renowned Ceylon Tea. As the train meanders through dense vegetation, passes through narrow tunnels, and traverses mountains, immerse yourself in the serene beauty of lush green landscapes. Disembark at Nanu Oya station and continue the journey by road to Nuwara Eliya, a city celebrated for its significance in tea cultivation. Recognized as the coolest area in Sri Lanka, it boasts a cool climate and retains colonial-era charm. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, transfer to your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Tea Factory (Superior Room)

Commence the day with an early or packed breakfast as you embark on a trek in Horton Plains National Park. Navigate a 5.6-mile looped track through the captivating landscapes of Horton Plains, leading you to the breathtaking viewpoints of World's End and Mini Worlds' End. Revel in the panoramic vistas and the natural beauty that unfolds during the trek. After completing this invigorating adventure, return to your hotel. (Driving distance is 19 miles in approximately 1.5 hours.)

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Tea Factory (Superior Room)

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Yala, Sri Lanka's oldest national park, located in the southeast corner, covering an expansive area of approximately 313,823 acres. Yala, renowned for its diverse wildlife and dry zone tropical thorn forest, offers a haven for bird and game watching, particularly for elephant viewing, which is best experienced from October to December. The journey spans 189 miles from Colombo, with access through Ratnapura and Tissamaharama. Upon arrival in Yala, transfer to your hotel. (The driving distance is approximately 5 hours and 30 minutes.)

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Jetwing Yala (Superior room)

Embark on a thrilling day with morning and afternoon Jeep safaris in the renowned Yala National Park, an expansive area renowned for its diverse terrain, ranging from flat plains to rocky outcrops. The vegetation spans from open parkland to dense jungle, providing a captivating experience for wildlife enthusiasts. Yala is celebrated for its abundant wildlife, including a large population of elephants, deer, wild boar, and leopards, making each safari a captivating exploration of the park's natural wonders.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Accommodation: Jetwing Yala (Superior room)

Begin the day with a scenic drive to Bentota, making a captivating stop in Galle. Galle, once the chief port of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its handmade lace. Explore the World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, spanning 90 acres, originally constructed by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch in 1663. This walled city has endured since the early sixteenth century, witnessing the Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial periods. Currently, it is designated as an archaeological reserve and a living World Heritage site. After exploring Galle, continue the drive to Bentota, where you'll find your accommodation at Rock Villa by Taru Villas, offering a restful stay in a Superior Room. The driving distance is approximately 4.5 hours.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Ahungalla (Deluxe room)

Enjoy a leisurely day at the beach, where you are free to relax and unwind amidst the coastal beauty of Bentota. Whether you choose to bask in the sun, take a refreshing dip in the ocean, or stroll along the sandy shores, the day is yours to indulge in tranquility and the natural splendor of the surroundings.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Heritance Ahungalla (Deluxe room)

Following breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Colombo. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in the vibrant cityscape with a unique Colombo City Tour by Tuk-Tuk. This lively journey takes you through bustling commercial areas and the tree-lined residential enclave of Cinnamon Gardens. Explore Fort, the former British administrative center and military garrison, and navigate Sea Street, the Goldsmith's quarters in the heart of Pettah. Explore the diverse attractions, including a Hindu Temple with intricate stone carvings, the historic Dutch Church of Wolfendhal, dating back to 1749, and the bustling Bazaar area. As you continue your Tuk-Tuk adventure, marvel at the architectural beauty of the Dawatagaha Mosque and the former Eye Hospital in Cinnamon Gardens. Visit the BMICH, witness the replica of Avukana Buddha, and explore Independence Square. After this insightful tour, return to your Taru Villas Lake Lodge accommodation for a relaxing evening. The driving distance is approximately 2 hours.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Taru Villas Lake Lodge (Classic Room)

Conclude your Spectacular Ceylon journey with a hearty breakfast, followed by a seamless transfer to the airport for your onward flight. As you bid farewell to the enchanting landscapes and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka, carry with you the cherished memories of an unforgettable adventure.

Meals: Breakfast