Valleys to Beaches
Embark on a journey through the heart of Sri Lanka – explore misty mountain valleys and golden tropical beaches, discover sacred temples in Kandy, sip fresh Ceylon tea in Nuwara Eliya, hike through lush highlands and waterfalls in Ella and spot wildlife in Yala National Park, then relax on the palm-fringed shores of Mirissa and conclude the trip wandering through colonial treasures at the Galle Fort.
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and travel to the cultural hill capital of Kandy. En route, visit a spice garden in Matale. In Kandy, enjoy an evening cultural show and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Overnight in Kandy.
Visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, stroll by Kandy Lake, and explore the city’s local markets and temples. Optional visit to a tea museum. Overnight stay in Kandy.
Drive through the misty highlands to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at Ramboda Falls and a working tea factory. Arrive in “Little England” and enjoy a colonial-style city walk, including Gregory Lake. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Depart early for a guided hike in Horton Plains, a highland plateau featuring World’s End, Baker’s Falls, and endemic wildlife. Return to Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing afternoon. Overnight stay.
Board the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella, one of the most beautiful train rides in the world. Arrive in the hill town of Ella, known for its natural beauty and relaxed atmosphere. Overnight in Ella.
Hike to Little Adam’s Peak, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, and explore Ravana Falls. Enjoy local cafés or unwind at your eco-lodge surrounded by tea-covered hills. Overnight in Ella.
Drive south from the valleys into the lowland plains of Yala. In the afternoon, embark on a jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, and crocodiles in Yala National Park. Overnight near Yala.
Leave the wilderness behind as you head towards the coast. Stop in Tangalle for a beachside break before continuing to Mirissa, a laid-back beach town. Enjoy sunset by the Indian Ocean. Overnight in Mirissa.
Spend the day at leisure on the beach. Optional seasonal activity: whale watching excursion to see blue whales and dolphins. Enjoy beachfront dining or Ayurvedic spa treatments. Overnight in Mirissa.
Drive along the southern coast to Galle, a UNESCO-listed colonial fort town. Enjoy a guided walk through its cobblestone streets, then continue to Colombo or directly to the airport for departure.
Kandy
– Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic: Sri Lanka’s most sacred Buddhist shrine
– Kandy Lake: A scenic walk and central landmark
– Cultural Show: An evening of traditional dance performances
– Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya: Expansive gardens with over 4,000 plant species
Matale
– Spice Garden: Learn about Sri Lankan herbs, spices, and Ayurvedic uses
Nuwara Eliya
– Ramboda Falls: A picturesque highland waterfall
– Tea Factory & Plantation: A guided tour of the Ceylon tea-making process
– Gregory Lake: A leisure area with boat rides and walking paths
– Colonial Nuwara Eliya: A market, post office, and heritage-style buildings
Horton Plains National Park
– World’s End: A dramatic cliff drop with stunning valley views
– Baker’s Falls: A misty cascade hidden in the cloud forest
Scenic Train Journey
– From Nanu Oya to Ella: One of the world’s most scenic train rides through tea hills and tunnels
Ella
– Little Adam’s Peak: A short hike with panoramic views
– Nine Arches Bridge: An iconic railway bridge nestled in the jungle
– Ravana Falls: A dramatic cascade linked to Sri Lankan legend
Yala National Park
– Wildlife Safari: Spotting leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and exotic birds in their natural habitat
Tangalle (stopover)
– Tangalle Beach: A peaceful stretch of coastline for a short break en route to Mirissa
Mirissa
– Mirissa Beach: Ideal for relaxation, swimming, and surfing
– Whale Watching (Seasonal): A boat excursion to spot blue whales and dolphins
Galle Fort
– UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring Dutch-era architecture, a lighthouse, and colonial ramparts
Colombo (optional, based on flight time)
– Quick city highlights or a coastal drive, depending on your departure schedule