You'll be greeted upon arrival at the airport and transferred to Negombo, a charming beach town on Sri Lanka’s palm-lined west coast, just a short distance from Colombo. The rest of the day is yours to unwind—whether that’s lounging by the pool with a good book or taking a leisurely stroll along the shore. The next morning, immerse yourself in Negombo’s vibrant fishing community with a scenic boat trip on the lagoon, setting the tone for a relaxed and enriching start to your Sri Lankan adventure.

This morning, you'll depart Negombo and travel up the scenic West Coast to the Kalpitiya peninsula, a journey of approximately three hours. Known for its serene beaches and wildlife-rich lagoon, Kalpitiya is a haven for nature enthusiasts and a hotspot for kite surfing.

After checking into your beachside hotel, set out on an afternoon boat trip across Sri Lanka’s second-largest lagoon, a picturesque expanse surrounded by lush greenery and mangrove forests. Bird lovers will be in for a treat, as the area is home to several unique species—so keep your eyes peeled!

From November to April, Kalpitiya offers the best dolphin-watching opportunities in Sri Lanka. Early this morning, set off on a thrilling boat tour in search of these playful marine creatures. Spinner dolphins, known for their spectacular acrobatic leaps, are the most commonly spotted species—but if you're especially lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of a whale!

After the tour, the rest of the day is yours to enjoy. Unwind on the beach, soak up the coastal serenity, or, if you're feeling adventurous, give kite surfing a go at one of the local schools.

Today, you'll leave the coast behind and journey inland to Anuradhapura, a city steeped in history. Founded over 2,500 years ago, it served as Sri Lanka’s capital for more than a millennium under the reign of ancient kings.

The afternoon is yours to explore the city's vast ruins at your own pace. Wander through the sprawling complex, marvel at its archaeological and architectural wonders, and discover the remains of ancient temples, towering dagobas, and the remnants of the old Royal Palace.

Next, you'll travel north with your driver to Jaffna, a city that has only recently opened up to tourism. Closer to South India than Colombo, Jaffna has a distinct identity shaped by its large Tamil population, blending Hindu and Buddhist influences in its culture, traditions, and cuisine.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take some time to refresh before meeting your local guide for a cycling tour of Jaffna’s key landmarks. Your journey concludes at Nallur Kandasamy Kovil, the most revered Hindu temple in the region, where you'll arrive just in time to witness the captivating evening ceremonies.

After breakfast, explore the Jaffna countryside with your guide, visiting a local farm to see traditional rice, vegetable, and fruit cultivation—try your hand at ploughing if you like.

Then, join your guide’s family to prepare and enjoy a traditional Jaffna lunch, sitting on the floor and savoring local dishes the authentic way. The afternoon is free to relax or explore at your own pace.

Today is a long travel day as you journey south with your driver to Polonnaruwa. Along the way, there will be opportunities to stop and explore, including a chance to stretch your legs with a climb up the iconic Sigiriya Rock. Once the site of King Kasyapa’s grand palace, this ancient fortress offers a steep but rewarding ascent. At the summit, you'll be treated to breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.

After taking in the sights, you'll continue your journey to your hotel near Polonnaruwa, where you can unwind after the day's adventure.

This morning, set off on a cycling tour through the UNESCO-listed ruins of Polonnaruwa, once the thriving capital of ancient Sri Lanka. As you pedal through this historic site, you'll discover well-preserved temples, statues, and royal palaces that offer a glimpse into the island’s rich past. After exploring, enjoy a delicious lunch at a small, authentic local restaurant.

In the afternoon, embark on a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, known for its impressive herds of wild elephants. Thanks to the park’s open landscapes, spotting these majestic creatures is easy, especially between June and September, when hundreds gather around the lakes in search of water.

Today, you'll leave the ancient sites behind and venture off the beaten path to Gal Oya, one of Sri Lanka’s lesser-known yet most captivating national parks. Nestled along the shores of the country’s largest lake, this untouched wilderness is brimming with wildlife, offering an immersive jungle experience. Keep an eye out for Asian elephants, which can often be seen bathing along the water’s edge.

For the next couple of days, you'll stay in a charming eco-lodge, complete with a swimming pool and breathtaking views. Alternatively, for a closer connection to nature, consider our glamping option—an overnight stay in a spacious, eco-friendly tent designed to blend seamlessly with the surroundings. If this sounds like your style, ask your Travel Specialist for more details.

This morning, enjoy some free time to explore the surroundings or simply unwind by the pool. After lunch, hop into a jeep for a scenic ride through the jungle to the lake’s edge, where a boat will be waiting to take you on a tranquil wildlife cruise.

As you glide across the water, keep an eye out for Gal Oya’s diverse wildlife, including its resident elephants. If you're especially lucky, you might even witness them swimming between islands in search of food—an unforgettable sight, so have your camera ready!

Next, your journey continues into the heart of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, where you’ll arrive at the breathtaking Knuckles Range. Your home for the next few days is a stunning eco-lodge perched on the hillside, surrounded by endless emerald-green tea plantations. Here, you can unwind in serene natural beauty, dine on fresh, seasonal dishes from the lodge’s garden, and take in the spectacular mountain views from the infinity pool.

For those seeking a more adventurous experience, we offer an alternative glamping and trekking option in the Knuckles region. If that sounds like your kind of escape, ask your Travel Specialist for more details.

Wake up to breathtaking mountain views and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out to explore a nearby village. Primarily home to Tamil communities, the village traces its roots back to the British colonial era, when Tamil workers were brought from India to cultivate Sri Lanka’s thriving tea industry.

With the help of a local guide, you'll gain a deeper understanding of their way of life as you spend time with the community, sampling traditional snacks and sipping freshly brewed tea in a welcoming local home. It’s an authentic glimpse into daily life in the Sri Lankan hills.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace. If you're feeling active, the lodge offers a range of experiences, from birdwatching to scenic hikes—just ask, and they’ll be happy to arrange an adventure for you.

It’s time to leave the tranquil hills behind and head to the bustling city of Colombo. Thanks to its strategic position on the east-west trade route, Colombo has evolved into a dynamic capital where modern life meets a rich colonial heritage, with architectural influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British eras.

This afternoon—or tomorrow morning, depending on your flight time and preference—you’ll experience the city in true Sri Lankan style: from the back of a colorful tuk-tuk. Zipping through the lively streets, this exhilarating tour offers a unique perspective on Colombo’s vibrant culture, historic landmarks, and local way of life.

Savor one last Sri Lankan breakfast before your transfer to the airport, ensuring you arrive in time for your homebound flight. Safe travels and take with you the unforgettable memories of your journey through this beautiful island!