Journey Overview
If you want to explore Sri Lanka’s jungles in depth, this exciting 20-day tour is just right for you. You’ll discover hidden and lesser-known sights, experience the authentic rural lifestyle, hike through the breathtaking Horton Plains, and enjoy a scenic train ride through the famous tea country. To finish, you can relax on the beautiful shores of Mirissa, enjoying in the peaceful atmosphere.
Daily Itinerary
1
Airport - Negombo City
Approx. transfer: 20 minutes
Welcome to Bandaranaike International Airport! Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Negombo. You will have free time to take a leisurely stroll along the beach, explore the vibrant stalls and charming cafes, or observe traditional fishing methods and experience the lively atmosphere of the local fish market.
Accommodation: 3R RESORT in Negombo
2
Negombo - Kurunegala - Rural Village - Maho
Approx. duration: 2.5 hours
Stop in Kurunegala to enjoy the lively and peaceful atmosphere around the lake. Take time to visit a local farming village where you can observe the daily routines and traditions of the villagers. Then, make a stop at a nearby temple viewpoint to take in stunning panoramic views of the mountains and the town below. If the schools, hospital, post office, and markets are open, you will have the chance to explore these community centres, gaining a deep understanding of local life and culture.
Accommodation: YAPAHUWA PARADISE hotel in Maho
3
Maho - Uppu Aru Boat Ride - Wilpattu Area
Approx. duration: 2.5 hours
You’ll be transferred to an area near Wilpattu National Park, where you can embark on a serene boat ride along the Uppu Aru River. This tranquil journey offers excellent birdwatching opportunities, with over 500 bird species recorded in Sri Lanka, including 34 endemic to the region. A truly remarkable experience for nature enthusiasts.
Accommodation: CLOUD NINE HOTEL in Eluwankulama
4
Full Day Safari in Wilpattu NP
Eluwankulama - Park Entrance: 1.5 hours
Experience a captivating safari in Sri Lanka’s largest national park, Wilpattu. Discover its distinctive villus—natural lakes that serve as vital habitats for a rich diversity of wildlife. Encounter majestic leopards, elephants, buffalo, bears, deer, herons, ducks, junglefowl, crocodiles, monitors, and turtles in their natural surroundings. A truly unforgettable journey into the heart of nature.
Accommodation: CLOUD NINE HOTEL in Eluwankulama
5
Eluwankulama - Pidurangala - Sigiriya Area
Transfer: 3.5 hours
From Pidurangala Rock, you can admire Sigiriya Rock from a strikingly different perspective, offering a fresh and captivating view of this iconic landmark. The site also houses a temple with historical significance, connected to monks who were relocated from Sigiriya by King Kassapa. This blend of natural beauty and rich history makes the visit culturally enlightening.
Accommodation: KASSAPA LIONS ROCK RESORT in Sigiriya
6
Sigiriya Rock - Minneriya Safari - Optional Rural Village
Sigiriya - Minneriya: 30 minutes
Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock, a 5th-century AD World Heritage icon, and immerse yourself in its ancient grandeur. In the afternoon, embark on a safari in Minneriya National Park to witness impressive herds of elephants in their natural habitat. For a deeper cultural experience, optional for a rural village tour by tuk-tuk, canoe, and ox cart, complete with a cooking demonstration and tasting—an authentic glimpse into traditional life.
Accommodation: KASSAPA LIONS ROCK RESORT in Sigiriya
7
Dambulla Golden Temple - Matale Hindu Temple - Kandy
Sigiriya - Kandy: 2.5 hours
Explore the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple, dating back to the 1st century BC, where you’ll find an impressive collection of 153 Buddha statues that reflect centuries of devotion and artistic skill. Afterward, visit the Sri Muthumariamman Hindu Temple in Matale, known for its vibrant and colorful exterior that beautifully represents South Indian temple architecture. Conclude your day with a tranquil walk through the Udawatta Kele Reserve in Kandy, a lush forest sanctuary filled with towering trees and a rich variety of birdlife, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
Accommodation: TOPAZ HOTEL in Kandy
8
Kandy - Lankatilaka Temple - Peradeniya Royal Gardens
Kandy - Lankatilaka: 45 min; Lankatilaka - Peradeniya: 30 min
Discover the unique “alternative” architecture of Lankatilaka Temple as you journey through scenic rice fields and charming villages, offering a glimpse into rural life and ancient craftsmanship. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, one of Sri Lanka’s finest green spaces, where a stunning variety of plants and vibrant landscapes await your exploration.
Accommodation: TOPAZ HOTEL in Kandy
9
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage - Free Time in Kandy
Kandy - Pinnawala: 1h 15m
Visit Pinnawala to see the elephants up close, especially during their river bathing time—a truly memorable sight! After that, enjoy some free time in Kandy to stroll around the beautiful lake and explore the lively market areas at your own pace.
Accommodation: TOPAZ HOTEL in Kandy
10
Hanthana Tea Fields Walk - Free Afternoon
Kandy - Hanthana: 30 minutes
Take a peaceful walk through the Hanthana tea fields, where you can see the plantations up close and visit the nursery dedicated to tea pickers’ children. It’s a rarely touristed spot, so you get to enjoy authentic, untouched scenery. Then, enjoy a free afternoon to either relax or explore the city at your own pace.
Accommodation: TOPAZ HOTEL in Kandy
11
Ramboda Falls - Tea Factory - Train to Bandarawella
Kandy - Nuwara Eliya: 2.5 hours + Train
You’ll start by driving through lush tea plantations to catch a stunning view of Ramboda Falls, a true natural wonder. Then, you’ll visit a tea factory where you can learn all about the fascinating process of making Ceylon tea. If there’s availability, you’ll enjoy a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya (near Nuwara Eliya) to Bandarawella—an unforgettable journey through the hills.
Accommodation: VILLA PERPETUA in Bandarawela
12
Horton Plains National Park Hike
Bandarawela - Horton Plains: 1.5 hours
Get ready for an invigorating hike of about 9 km through the beautiful grasslands and cloud forests of Horton Plains. You’ll reach the breathtaking World's End cliff and the serene Baker Falls, all while keeping an eye out for sambar deer roaming the area. It’s a perfect blend of nature and adventure!
Accommodation: VILLA PERPETUA in Bandarawela
13
Bandarawela - Buduruwagala - Tissa Lake
Bandarawela - Buduruwagala: 1 hour; Buduruwagala - Tissa: 1h 15m
You’ll begin your day by visiting the remarkable 10th-century Buduruwagala, where you can admire seven intricately carved rock figures that tell stories from ancient times. It’s a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. Afterward, you’ll transfer to Tissamaharama, a charming town known for its serene surroundings. Here, you can take a leisurely stroll around Lake Tissa, a peaceful spot where local fishermen often paddle their canoes, offering a wonderful chance to experience the everyday life and natural beauty of the area. It’s a perfect blend of history, culture, and nature to enrich your journey.
Accommodation: MAGAMPURA ECO VILLAGE RESORT in Tissa
14
Full Day Safari in Yala National Park
Tissa - Yala: 40 minutes
Get ready for an exciting full-day safari in Yala National Park, famous for having one of the highest concentrations of leopards in the world! Alongside these elusive big cats, you’ll have the chance to spot elephants, crocodiles, buffalo, sloth bears, and a wide variety of colorful birds. It’s a thrilling adventure for any nature lover!
Accommodation: MAGAMPURA ECO VILLAGE SAFARI in Tissamaharama
15
Tissa - Turtle Farm - Mirissa Beach
Tissa - Galle: 2 hours; to Mirissa thereafter
You’ll embark on a transfer to Mirissa, with a special stop at a turtle farm along the way. This visit offers a unique opportunity to learn about the fascinating sea turtle species that inhabit southern Sri Lanka’s waters, including the green, loggerhead, hawksbill, and olive ridley turtles. The farm plays an important role in conservation efforts, helping protect these endangered creatures. After this enriching experience, you’ll continue on to Mirissa, a coastal town known for its stunning beaches and vibrant marine life.
Accommodation: MANDARA RESORT in Mirissa
16
Mirissa Free Day - Optional Whale Watching
Local transfers: under 20 minutes
You’ve got a free day to enjoy up the sun and relax on Mirissa’s beautiful beach. If you’re up for a bit of early adventure, there’s an optional early morning whale watching tour during the November to April season, where you might catch sight of majestic blue and sperm whales, as well as dolphins. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with the ocean’s wonders!
Accommodation: MANDARA RESORT in Mirissa
17
Mirissa Free Beach Day
No transfers
You’ll have plenty of time to relax and enjoy Mirissa beach at your own pace, enjoying the serene atmosphere and beautiful surroundings.
Accommodation: MANDARA RESORT in Mirissa
18
Mirissa Free Beach Day
No transfers
Another day to enjoy the stunning south coast at your own pace.
Accommodation: MANDARA RESORT in Mirissa
19
Mirissa Free Beach Day
No transfers
A free day to enjoy Mirissa and unwind.
Accommodation: MANDARA RESORT in Mirissa
20
Mirissa - Galle Fort - Airport
Mirissa - Galle: 1 hour; Galle - Airport: 2 hours
Take your time to explore the charming walled colonial center of Galle Fort, a place renowned as one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful and historically rich towns. Wander through its narrow streets, admire the well-preserved architecture, and enjoy the unique atmosphere before you transfer to the airport. Please be sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your departure to allow for a smooth check-in and security process. As you bid farewell to the enchanting island of Sri Lanka, may the memories of this remarkable journey stay with you always and we wish you a safe journey!
3/4* Hotels
$2,805
Reference price for a group of 4 people
Group of 2 people: From $3,179 per person
Group of 2 people: From $3,179 per person
- 19 nights accommodation with breakfast
- All entrance fees included
- Safaris and jeeps included per itinerary
- Private transportation with driver-guide
- English-speaking support
- Airport transfers included
