Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by your local guide and transferred to Dambulla, a journey of approximately 4 hours. The rest of the evening is yours to enjoy at leisure.

In the morning, depart to explore the breathtaking Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site dating back to the 5th century AD. Also known as ‘Lion Rock,’ this citadel stands 200 meters above the jungle, offering exceptional beauty and historical significance. After lunch, continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once the royal capital of the Sinhalese kingdom and over 1000 years old. Strategically located to defend against attacks from the southeast and boasting fewer mosquitoes, Polonnaruwa is home to the impressive ruins of the Royal Palace and the magnificent Gal Vihara, renowned for its beautifully carved Buddha statues. Please note: photography is prohibited in certain areas of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and these will be clearly signposted.

After breakfast, visit the Dambulla Rock Temple, where you’ll explore impressive caves adorned with over 2,000 square meters of painted walls and ceilings, once gilded by an ancient king to mark his place of worship. Then, travel to Kandy, stopping en route at a spice garden for a tour and lunch. After checking in at your hotel, head to the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic in the afternoon. This sacred site houses Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist relic and is one of the holiest shrines in the Buddhist world. In the evening, unwind while watching a vibrant cultural show, featuring traditional dances and ornate costumes. After the show and dinner, check in to your hotel for the night.

Today, you’ll visit the stunning botanical gardens in Peradeniya, home to over 4,000 species of trees, plants, orchids, and creepers. Next, enjoy a memorable trip to the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, established in 1975 to care for abandoned and injured elephants. Get up close to these majestic creatures as you watch them being fed, bathed, and trained by the wildlife authorities. In the evening, embark on a city tour of Kandy, exploring the bustling bazaar, arts and crafts center, and gem museum. Kandy, the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, withstood Dutch and Portuguese attacks for over three centuries before finally falling to the British in 1815.

This morning, depart Kandy and immerse yourself in the divine scent of Ceylon tea as you tour a sprawling tea plantation. Afterward, enjoy a brief walking tour of Nuwara Eliya, nestled amidst idyllic mountains that offer stunning views of nearby valleys, meadows, and peaks. Known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka, this tranquil district is famous for its misty hillsides and vibrant tea pickers dressed in colorful saris. After taking in the picturesque surroundings, continue on to your hotel near Yala, where you'll check in for a peaceful stay.

Enjoy the morning at leisure before heading out for an exciting jeep safari through the magnificent Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's largest national park, set against a stunning oceanfront backdrop. The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including elephants, wild boars, buffaloes, bears, deer, and crocodiles, as well as numerous migratory and indigenous bird species. With a bit of luck, you might even catch a glimpse of the elusive leopard during your safari adventure!

After breakfast, head to Galle, once the chief port of Ceylon and the heart of the Dutch colonial era in the 17th century. On your city tour, explore the impressive Galle Fort and its surrounding historic buildings, which showcase the rich Dutch heritage that once dominated the country. Following the tour, travel north to Colombo for your final night, where you'll check in and relax before the end of your journey.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.