Mountain & Marshland Quest
Venture through the contrasting natural worlds of Sri Lanka on a journey that captures both altitude and ecology in an immersive experience – begin along the coastal lagoons and wetlands of Negombo and Muthurajawela, then climb into the misty central highlands of Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, and Ella, where cloud forests, tea estates, and waterfalls await. Hike the breathtaking trails of Horton Plains, soak in the tranquillity of Belihuloya, and descend to the rich marshes of Bundala National Park, a RAMSAR-listed haven for migratory birds.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to your hotel in Negombo. Begin your journey with a relaxed sunset stroll along the beach or a boat ride on the lagoon. Overnight in Negombo.
Explore Negombo Lagoon and the Dutch Canal, observing vibrant birdlife and mangroves. Continue to Muthurajawela Wetlands for a guided boat safari through Sri Lanka’s largest saline coastal peat bog. Overnight in Negombo.
Travel to Kandy, with an optional stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage or ethical sanctuary to observe elephants. Arrive in Kandy and explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy Lake, and local markets. Overnight in Kandy.
Morning visit to the Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya. Afternoon walk through Udawatta Kele Sanctuary. Optional evening cultural show in Kandy. Overnight in Kandy.
Drive to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at Ramboda Falls. Visit a tea factory and plantation en route. Explore Gregory Lake in the late afternoon. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Early morning excursion to Horton Plains National Park. Hike to World’s End and Baker’s Falls, spotting endemic highland wildlife. Return to Nuwara Eliya for an overnight stay.
Board the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella, passing valleys, misty hills, and tea gardens. Arrive in Ella and relax at your accommodation. Overnight in Ella.
Hike Little Adam’s Peak, visit Nine Arches Bridge, and explore Ravana Falls. Optional leisure activities in the village. Overnight in Ella.
Travel to Belihuloya, a tranquil area ideal for trekking, cycling, and river bathing amidst forested surroundings. Overnight in Belihuloya.
Journey south to Bundala National Park. Explore this UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and RAMSAR Wetland, observing migratory birds, flamingos, and crocodiles. Overnight nearby.
Drive to Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, historic streets, sea-facing ramparts, and colonial architecture. Overnight in Galle.
Depending on flight timing, enjoy a brief urban exploration of Colombo or a relaxed morning before transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.
Negombo Lagoon & Dutch Canal
– Coastal lagoon ecosystem with vibrant birdlife and historical canal routes built by the Dutch.
Muthurajawela Wetlands
– Sri Lanka’s largest saline coastal peat bog, home to kingfishers, crocodiles, mangroves, and marsh birds; explored by boat safari.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage / Ethical Sanctuary (Optional)
– A stop en route to observe elephants in a semi-wild setting, with some options focusing on conservation.
Kandy
– Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Sacred Buddhist temple housing the tooth of the Buddha.
– Kandy Lake & Local Markets: Central for culture, shopping, and city life.
– Udawatta Kele Sanctuary: Forest reserve with trails, monkeys, and historic hermit caves.
– Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya: Famed for orchids, palm avenues, and medicinal plant collections.
Ramboda Falls
– A dramatic multi-tiered waterfall nestled in the highlands.
Nuwara Eliya
– Known as “Little England” for its cool climate and colonial charm.
– Tea Factory & Plantation Visit: Learn about the production of world-famous Ceylon tea.
– Gregory Lake: Scenic lakefront walk or paddle boating available.
Horton Plains National Park
– Cloud forest plateau home to World’s End (a cliff edge with panoramic views), Baker’s Falls, and highland wildlife like sambar deer and endemic birds.
Scenic Hill Country Train Ride
– From Nanu Oya to Ella: Passes dramatic valleys, tea gardens, misty hills, and viaducts, regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in Asia.
Ella
– Little Adam’s Peak: A relatively easy hike with sweeping views.
– Nine Arches Bridge: Famous colonial-era railway bridge surrounded by forest.
– Ravana Falls: Tall waterfall with mythical connections to the Ramayana.
Belihuloya
– A tranquil zone between Sri Lanka’s wet and dry areas, ideal for trekking, cycling, and river bathing in forested surroundings.
Bundala National Park
– UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and RAMSAR Wetland; a haven for migratory waterbirds, including flamingos and painted storks, plus crocodiles and salt pans.
Galle Fort
– A well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Dutch, Portuguese, and British colonial architecture, quaint cafés, and sea-facing ramparts.
Colombo (Optional, depending on flight time)
– Brief urban glimpse into modern Sri Lanka, or simply a restful overnight stay before departure.