Highlights
- Hike to the top of Pidurangala Rock for incredible views
- Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Trek in Hill Country & Horton Plains National Park
- Learn About Tea Production in Nuwara Eliya
- Venture to the summit of Ella Rock
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Discover the Ancient Rock Fortress of Sigiriya | Sigiriya |
| Day 2 | Hike to the Top of Pidurangala Rock & Tour Kandy | Kandy |
| Day 3 | Trek & Learn About Tea in Nuwara Eliya | Nuwara Eliya |
| Day 4 | Explore Horton Plains National Park | Ella |
| Day 5 | Ascend Ella Rock | Belihuloya |
| Day 6 | Hike Around Kinchigune & Sightsee in Negombo | Negombo |
| Day 7 | Depart Sri Lanka - End of Trip |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Discover the Ancient Rock Fortress of Sigiriya
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Start at the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Some say the site should be named the eighth wonder of the world. The name translates to "Lion Rock," a reference to the way visitors traditionally began their final ascent to the top of the monument, passing through the open jaws and throat of a lion. Unfortunately, the only remains of this lion figure today are the gigantic paws sculpted into the side of the rock. The fortress, rising up high from the jungle, is an incredible sight to see.
Day 2: Hike to the Top of Pidurangala Rock & Tour Kandy
This morning, you'll hike to the top of massive Pidurangala Rock near Sigiriya. Tour the ancient monastery and enjoy sweeping views over the jungle from the top of the volcanic hill. Take a break for lunch before continuing onward to Kandy, strategically situated between three mountain ranges and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The impressive temple complex, dating back to the 16th century, comprises numerous buildings decorated with paintings and carvings depicting Buddha. As the name suggests, it's home to an important relic, the tooth of the Buddha, which is carefully guarded by security night and day.
Day 3: Trek & Learn About Tea in Nuwara Eliya
Go for a morning hike before moving to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England." Colonized by the British, Sri Lanka's highest town still retains an old-world grandeur. You'll see old colonial-style hotels, a golf club that dates back to 1889, and abundant rose gardens. The climate here is unlike anywhere else in Sri Lanka. Due to the high elevation, it offers a cooler, refreshing atmosphere that makes for a pleasant journey as you travel to a tea plantation in the afternoon.
You'll learn about Ceylon tea, one of Sri Lanka's main exports. Observe colorfully dressed tea leaf-pickers hard at work on the sloping hills. With incredible skill, they fill several sacks of tea leaves each day. On this dedicated tour, you'll get to see the entire process, from tea bush to teapot.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Explore Horton Plains National Park
Today you'll go trekking in the famous Horton Plains National Park, a reserve characterized by a beautiful landscape of rolling hills, forests, and grassland. It's home to various mammal species, including elk, deer, giant squirrel, wild boar, wild hare, porcupine, and leopard. The park also has unique vegetation and offers a perfect ground to observe many rare and endemic highland birds.
One awe-inspiring physical feature in Horton Plains is the escarpment that falls dramatically to the lowlands. Aptly known as the "World's End," the precipice offers a fabulous view of the tea estates below. On a clear day, you can see out to the distant southern coastline. In the evening, you'll have the chance to go canoeing in Samanalawewa Reservoir.
Day 5: Ascend Ella Rock
Today you'll arrive in the sleepy mountain village of Ella. The town, located in the central highlands, has a wonderfully cool climate. On a clear day, you can see the south coast of Sri Lanka. Ella is also a perfect base for relaxing, with lots of fantastic walks that lead through tea plantations to temples and waterfalls. You'll hike to Ella Rock, famous for its breathtaking views across the Hill Country, and have the option to go on other self-guided hikes later in the day.
Day 6: Go Hiking Around Kinchigune & Sightsee in Negombo
After breakfast, you'll hike around Kinchigune, an ancient village that's now almost totally submerged in the waters of the Samanalawewa Reservoir. The trail runs through forests, paddy fields, and waterfalls, across rivers, and past local village houses. Observe the simple way of life in the countryside, noticing several varieties of birds and butterflies during the walk. The trail ends where the Belihuloya River meets the reservoir.
In the afternoon, continue to Negombo, known as "Little Rome" for its strong Catholic influence. The town transitioned through Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial rule, and remnants of those cultures remain today. The city's intriguing past will reveal itself as you meander past colonial architecture and quiet canals to reach a lagoon abundant with marine life. Local fishers have been harvesting lobsters, crabs, and prawns here for centuries. Take a stroll on the beach, then stop by a lively fish market before you take a break for dinner on the last night of the trip.
Day 7: Depart Sri Lanka - End of Trip
The trip has come to an end. You'll head to the airport this morning to catch your flight out. Safe travels!
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