14 Day itinerary in Sri Lanka, Asia
Our ‘Off the beaten track’ tours cover some of the lesser visited areas in the Island including regions which have only recently opened up. These itineraries do not always include the classic highlights so will appeal to return visitors or those looking to escape the well-trodden tourist trail and c... Read More
By Justyna, Shehara and Vinu
Physical Difficulty
Recommended Age
Operated in
GUIDANCE
starting point
trip type
trip attributes
Cycling
Kayaking
Hiking
Meet local people
Meditation
Travel with Purpose
Outdoors & Nature
Food & Drink
Start/End
Night
Jeep safari at Wilpattu National Park
Meditation on top of Mihintale Rock
Walk in village in a rural area followed by cooking demonstration
Engage in a one of most scenic rail transfer to Ella
Jeep safari at Wilpattu National Park
Meditation on top of Mihintale Rock
Walk in village in a rural area followed by cooking demonstration
Engage in a one of most scenic rail transfer to Ella
Standard ($)
Accommodation Categories
Airport – Kalpitiya (Transfer. approx.: 3.5 hours)
On arrival at the Bandaranayke International Airport, you will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality; Representative from Baboo will welcome you at the airport and you will proceed to Kalpitiya. Arrive at Kalpitiya, check-in at the hotel and relax at the beach while listening to the waves.
Guide: Included for the day
Accommodation:
Kalpitiya – Wilpattu – Kalpitiya (Transfer. approx.: 6 hours)
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and you will be heading towards Wilpattu today. Before proceeding to Wilpattu, in the morning you could consider engaging on a Dolphins watching session. Optional Activity EXPLORE – Dolphins watching at Kalpitiya waters Home to large pods of Dolphins, the seas of Kalpitiya peninsula are some of the best in Sri Lanka for magical moments, delighting in the antics of these amazing mammals in their natural habitat. You will mostly come across acrobatic spinner dolphins in these waters. Have your camera ready, or simply enjoy the moment, as they spin and leap out of the water, putting on wonderful display, often coming alongside the boat and ducking and diving through the clear waters. However, a rare but equally majestic sight, are the whales as they migrate through the seas nearby. Sperm Whales are the most common sighted, but you maybe luck and see a blue whale or a minkle! Travelling in smaller groups, it is awe inspiring to watch as they dive under water with their huge tails in the air. Afterwards, you will be taken to Wilpattu National Park through a boat journey to do the safari. EXPERIENCE – A jungle safari ride at Wilpattu Wilpattu sanctuary was declared as a National Park in 1938, Wilpattu National Park is located on the west coast close to the historical city of Anuradhapura. The dry zone jungle is thickly grown. Wilpattu National Park is home for many villus, or natural lakes that dot the landscape in the Wilpattu National Park. Except for two, these lakes contain rainwater, thus are important for resident and migratory water-birds. The history of the park is also of interest with ancient ruins having been discovered in Wilpattu National Park. Queen named “Kuweni” (considered to be the mother of the Sinhala race) is said to have lived in the place known as Kalli Villu. Historical evidence also shows the fact that Prince Saliya, son of King Dutugemunu lived in Wilpattu over 2,000 years ago. Retrun back to the hotel and re
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Kalpitiya – Mihintale – Anuradhapura (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)
Breakfast at the hotel and today you will be taken to one of the historic lands of the island, Anuradhapura. On route you will first stop by Mihintale to experience a meditation session on top of the rock. EXPERIENCE – A meditation session on Mihintale Rock and a visit to a nearby Ashram Later in the afternoon, you will be taken to Mihintale which is a pilgrimage site with several religious shrines and abandoned structures, including ruins of a hospital medical bath at the foot of the peak. The area is fringed by jungle and rock boulders scattered around the mountainous area. There are also many caves which were believed to be used by monks for meditation. Ancient stone architecture is found on several dome shaped monuments, monastic complexes and other sacred places. Attend on a meditation session on the rock and thereafter you will be visiting to nearby ashram where monks still meditate. EXPERIENCE – A cycle tour across the ancient city, Anuradhapura Anuradhapura was first settled by Anuradha, a follower of Prince Vijaya who is the founder of the Sinhala race. Later, it was made the Capital by King Pandukabhaya at about 380 B.C. According to the Mahavansa, the epic of Sinhala History, King Pandukabhaya’s city was a model of planning. Precincts were set aside for huntsmen, scavengers and heretics as well as for foreigners. There were hostels and hospitals, at least one Jain chapel, and cemeteries for high and low castes. A water supply was assured by the construction of tanks, artificial reservoirs, of which the one named after the king himself exists to this day under the altered name of Baswakkulam. Check-in at the hotel after visits and relax the rest of your day. Later, you will be driven to Anuradhapura ancient city to learn its history.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Anuradhapura – Ritigala – Habarana (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)
After having a breakfast your journey will be continuing to Pidurangala. On the way, stop by Ritigala Monastery to engage on a forest trek. EXPERIENCE – A trek at Ritigala Forest Monastery ruins Located southeast of Anuradhapura, The Ritigala mountain range is the highest mountain in the northern Sri Lanka and is surrounded by many mysteries and folklores. One of the most popular is that Lord Hanuman accidently dropped a chunk of medicinal herbs he was carrying back from the Himalayan Mountain to Sri Lanka to help Lord Rama’s brother, Prince Lakshman, who was wounded during a battle. This history accounts for the pocket of vegetation of healing herbs and plants at the strange mini-plateau at the summit of Ritigala, distinct from the dry-zone flora and lower slopes and surrounding plains. Walk through the Ritigala forest monastery that spreads across 700 acres of land. Home to forest monks who lived a simple way of life removed from the material world back in the day, Ritigala has since been abandoned. Shaded by a thick canopy of jungle and stone pathways built into existing rocks, Ritigala is unlike any other experience. The incline to the peak of the mountain is gradual and is surrounded by sites of ruins of structures that were once used by the monks. Later you will explore Dambulla Cave Temples at twilight, enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of this quiet time of day. As the sun goes down, you will marvel at the radiant beauty of your surroundings, as you are serenaded by the native birds that flock to this timeless site. EXPERIENCE – A visit to the Dambulla Cave Temples The popular cave temple complex in Dambulla dates back to the 2nd century BC and is declared as a world heritage site by UNESCO. There are over 80 caves in Dambulla, some of which are used for meditation by monks. The Famous Rock temple has five separate caves containing 153 magnificent Buddha statues, 3 statues of Sri Lankan monarchs, 4 Hindu deities and the ceilings are covered with frescoes,
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Habarana – Hiriwadunna – Polonnaruwa – Habarana (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)
Begin your day by partaking a morning trek to Pidurangala Rock with packed breakfast, to enjoy it with the sunrise at the top of the Rock. EXPERIENCE – A morning trek to Pidurangala The rock next to Sigiriya is called Pidurangala. King Kasyapa built his King’s Palace on Sigiriya, but he worshipped Buddha on Pidurangala. The monastery dates back to the third century BC, but it was under Kasyapa that it became huge. It’s said the monastery was home to 500 monks and occupied an area of 14 acres during his reign. If you feel up for it, climb up Pidurangala Rock to see the famous Sigiriya from a different perspective and admire more stunning views. Enjoy your packed breakfast with the sunrise on the top of the rock. Thereafter you will be drive to Hiriwadunna to participate on an interesting village tour. EXPERIENCE – An interesting village tour with authentic traditional lunch Ride a bike in a rural village on gravel roads, between paddy fields, Chena cultivations and around hidden lake while enjoying the nature and breathing fresh air, you will discover lots of endemic birds, wild animals during this ride. Don’t forget to visit a rural house and quench your thirst with a cup of tea or herbal drink which will be served by a villager. After the lunch you will be driven to Polonnaruwa to explore the great history of ancient kingdom. EXPERIENCE – The history of Polonnaruwa ancient city Polonnaruwa is the second largest city in the North Central province and was once the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th -13th Centuries. The city has many untouched ancient archaeological relic sites and remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country. UNESCO has declared this ancient city as one of the World Heritage sites.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Habarana – Sigiriya – Matale – Kandy (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)
Have a hot cup of tea along with your breakfast and today you will be travelling to the royal hill capital, Kandy. Before proceeding to Kandy, you will be taken to Sigiriya to explore the rock Fortress. EXPLORE – The marvel of Sigiriya Rock Fortress Sigiriya is a fortress complex of a ruined palace and one of the World Heritage sites declared by UNESCO. The “Fortress in the Sky” is undoubtedly one of the most treasured historical monuments in Sri Lanka and probably the most visited tourist destinations in Sri Lanka. Thereafter on route to Kandy, stop by Matale Spice Garden to be educated of Sri Lankan spices. EXPERIENCE – A visit to the Matale Spice Garden The Spice Garden in Matale has long been renowned for its spices. At the Spice Garden you will learn about fragrant clove, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, mace and pepper, and many other favorites such as chocolate and vanilla. Once you reach the hill capital Kandy, engage on a city tour to explore the royalty around the area. EXPERIENCE – A city tour across the Royal city, Kandy Kandy, the charming hill capital of Sri Lanka and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, surrounded by hills, valleys, rivers, lakes and waterfalls. It is the cultural center of the island and a UNESCO heritage city. End your city tour by paying a visit to the monument of Kandy, The Temple of The Tooth and experience a Pooja ceremony. EXPERIENCE – A pooja ceremony at the sacred Temple of The Tooth Later in the evening you will visit The Tooth Temple to experience a Pooja ceremony to experience the Buddhist culture as well as to examine people worship in the pure grounds. If you want to attend it in a local way, you may consider buying a few lotus flowers before you enter the temple in order to make an offer. Check-in at the hotel and have a dip at the pool.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Loolcondera – Ambuluwawa – Adam’s Peak (Transfer. approx.: 4 hours)
Enjoy your royal breakfast at the hotel and today you will proceed to Adam’s Peak as your next destination. In the morning you will first engage on a trek to Loolcondera Tea Estate. EXPERIENCE – A trek to Sri Lanka’s First Tea Estate A very unique experience, off the beaten track which has not been discovered by the tourists yet - trek through Loolcondera Tea Estate (stunning tea plantations of Sir James Taylor who was the first one who introduced tea to Sri Lanka) and then climb to the top of Kondagala Rock for the most stunning views to a beautiful Hanthana, Nuwara Eliya and Knuckles Mountain Range (360 degrees view). You will also enjoy a hot delicious cup of tea along with some biscuits for bites overlooking the stunning views of greenery. Afterewards continue towards, Ambuluwawa Tower. EXPERIENCE – The 360 degree view from the top of Ambuluwawa Ambuluwalwa is considered one of the must-visit places in Gampola, a small town situated close to Kandy. It is about 1,965 feet from the level of Gampola town. The entire place is richly diverse, comprising of evergreen forests, blossomed flower plants as well creepers, with about 200 different kinds of plants from 80 plant families. A number of medicinal plants are also grown here, namely Iramusu, Muva Kiriya, and Nawa Handi. You will be driven by a tuk for about 15 - 25 minutes to reach the temple. Later arrive at Adam’s Peak, check-in at the hotel and be prepared for the over night trek. EXPERIENCE – An over night trek for the pilgrims site, Adam’s Peak As cries of 'Sādhu Sādhu Sādu' echo the skies in devotion the legend unfolds encircling the holiest mountain of Sri Lanka, Sri Pada or Adam's Peak. The fiction of this 2243m high peak dates back to the beginning of mankind as Muslims believe it to be the place where Adam first set foot on earth while the Buddhist belief depicts how Lord Buddha - on his visit to Sri Lanka - placed his sacred footprint on this sanctuary fostered by God Sumana Saman.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Adam’s Peak – Ella (Transfer. approx.: 3.5 hours)
Return from Adam’s Peak in the morning and enjoy a filling breakfast and a cup of hot coffee. You will have ample time to rest after your trek to Adam’s Peak. Thereafter your journey will be continuing to Ella. Unlike before you will be touring Ella on a rail journey. EXPERIENCE – A scenic train ride through the misty hills Step in to a train and you will be experiencing a rail journey from Hatton to Ella through the Tea Plantations and misty hills thereafter (you will be taking the train at 11.25 hrs reaching Ella for late lunch – 4 hours for the train ride). Depending on your preference you could also consider taking part on a trek to the top of Little Adam’s Peak. Optional Activity EXPERIENCE – A trek to the top of Little Adam’s Peak Little Adam’s Peak is named after the sacred Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada–where the footprint of Lord Buddha is preserved). Do not be mistaken, the original Adam’s Peak is a much more strenuous climb, however ‘Little Adam’s Peak’ displays an amazing panoramic view on top and it is only a 30 minute climb. Check-in at the hotel and relax amidst the nature.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Ella
Have your refreshing breakfast while witnessing the luxurious views through the mist. Today you will be exploring this beautiful landscape further. EXPLORE – The futher beauty of Ella The beautiful hill country village surrounded by mountains, tea plantations and greenery everywhere you go. Ella is a great place to relax, wind down and enjoy the breathtaking scenery. The Ella Gap offers a stunning view and on a clear night, you can see the subtle glow of the Great Basses lighthouse on the southern coast of Sri Lanka. If you love living green, then Ella Rock is one of the places which prove it. The hike to the rock might feel a bit strenuous yet worth taking a step ahead since once you got to the summit the views will take away your fatigue. The panoramic views it provides with mist and cloud covering the area, especially in the early mornings and the late evenings are something you should witness and that would suffice enough to say that you visited Ella. Continue with the city tour by having a visit to Ella Gap which one of the main tourist attraction symbols that makes the area enchanting. Make your way to see one of the islands widest falls Ravana Falls which has been named after the legendary character Ravana (who is said to have been the king of Sri Lanka during then had kidnapped princess Sita, and hidden her behind the waterfall. Another must see that we have planned for you today is the picturesque Nine Arches Bridge or locally known as ‘Ahas Namaye Palama’ meaning nine skies bridge in Sinhala, built during the British Colonial period. This architectural masterpiece is a great spot to take a souvenir photo from your trip. Return back to the hotel and relax the rest of your day.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Ella – Diyaluma – Udawalawa – Sinharaja (Transfer. approx.: 6 hours)
Enjoy your delicious breakfast at the hotel and the below excursions are entitled for you.Your first excursion we have planned for today is a hike to the top of Diyaluma waterfalls. EXPERIENCE – A hike to the top of Diyaluma Waterfalls On the way stop by the stunning Diyaluma Waterfall where you will do a hike to the top of Diyaluma water falls from here (a bit off route; so for consideration strictly depending on the timing).The foot of the Diyaluma Falls is located 1-hour away from Ella. This 220-meter high waterfall is the 2nd highest waterfall of Sri Lanka, has different levels and natural pools on the top. Water coming down with great force on the rocks is amazing to experience on the foot but exploring the top is new and you need to be a fit to reach this. Thereafter stop by Elephant Transit Home to witness how the elephants are been taken care. EXPLORE – Elephant inhabit at Elephant Transit Home The Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home is run by the ‘Born Free Foundation’. The Transit home is located about 5km from the Udawalawe National Park and cares to elephants in need, intending to act as a halfway home, so that the elephants can be released back into the wild. We highly recommend you visit this organization!
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Sinharaja – Ahangama (Transfer. approx.: 2.5 hours)
Enjoy your breakfast with a cup of tea and after that you will be driven to Sinharaja Rainforest in the morning. EXPERIENCE – A jungle at Sinharaja Rainforest Engage on a trek at one of the finest natural rain forests in the world which has been identified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as well as being a Man and Biosphere Reserve. It’s probably one of the oldest living ecosystems, a place that certainly deserves a visit and a place that promises to lives up to its expectations. Trek through dense greenery of lofty trees, intertwined with shrubs, woody climbers, vines and smaller trees, experience a hot-spot of endemic species which includes over 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic trees and woody climbers, mammals, birds, butterflies, reptiles, insects and rare amphibian species. Upon completion, proceed towards Ahangama. Arrive at Ahangama and if you wish to explore aound the area further we recommend you to experince the below detailed activity. Optional Activity EXPERIENCE – Idle Bikes’ Paddy Trail A classic ride which is suitable for everyone. It is a gentle loop starting and finishing at the base near Wijaya Beach. It passes through Eluvila Bird Sanctuary and out into the paddy fields sticking to local paths and quiet roads. There is a half way stop for king coconuts served under an “ambalama” in a private and exclusive jungle garden. Check-in at the hotel and have dip at the pool.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Ahangama
Today we did not plan any activities giving you a chance to enjoy this beautiful place. Depending on your preference you could either chose one activity out of the below mentioned. Optional Activity EXPLORE – The giant sea mammals on a cruise We have planned for you a beautiful trip to discover whales in their natural environment. Mirissa located in the south coast, is one of the best places to spot those giant mammals. You will sail by the yacht and having a chance to also see Dolphins and with a bit of luck Sri Lankan turtles and flying fishes. Or EXPERIENCE – A body healing Yoga session at Sri Yoga Shala An ideal way of spending the beach stay is to attend on a yoga session at magnificient place named, Sri Yoga Shala where highly expertised yoga instructors would always be happy to help you practice best yoga sessions.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Ahangama – Galle (Transfer. approx.: 1.5 hours)
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel along with a hot cup of tea and afterwards transfer to the Galle. Upon your arrival to the destination engage in exploring the Dutch Fort. EXPLORE – The undying history of Galle With the help of your guide step into a local bus to and make more adventurous journey to Galle, the beautiful colonial town along the southern coast that was once the chief port of Sri Lanka and houses the largest occupied Fort in Asia. It is still well known for hand-made lace which was introduced by the Dutch and the UNESCO world heritage site, the Galle Fort. Asia's largest colonial-built fort has protected a wealth of interesting architecture, now housing galleries, cafes, and shops, or fulfilling their initial intended purpose as law courts and administrative buildings. Nearby beach towns provide an altogether different taste of life in the south of the country. Optional Activity: Experience a meditation session at the local temple (donation suggested) and watching the sunset from the Japanese Peace Pagoda.
Guide: Included for the day
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation:
Galle – Colombo – Airport (Transfer. approx: 4 hours)
Enjoy your breakfast early in the morning and check-out from the hotel to explore the busy lives of Colombo. OPTIONAL EXPERIENCE – The busy lives of Colombo Being the busiest place and the commercial capital of the country in Sri Lanka is Colombo, is a beautiful city with modern high rise buildings amidst old colonial ones making it a picturesque place. Galle Face Green in Colombo, the favorite hangout spot for locals and tourists alike overlooking the beautiful Indian Ocean and surrounded by grander buildings. Viharamaha Devi Park with tall flowering trees which bloom during April is a quiet serene place in the middle of this busy city.Discover the BMICH Memorial Conference Hall, The Buddha statue in front of BMICH; a replica of famous Aukana Buddha statue, Independence Square and Shopping Arcade, Nelum Pokuna International Theatre, the famous Red Mosque, Colombo Fort colonial clock tower and the old Parliament representing varied architectures that inspire you. You can have a walk in Galle Face Green and enjoy its famous street food, sit down by the sidewalks and listen to the waves and the buzzes of the salty wind (to be paid directly). Afterwards, continue towards the airport for your departure flight. Note: In order to match this program we would request you for a late departure flight booking. TIPS: * We recommend you check-out from the hotel early enough to allow you to reach the airport three hours prior to your departure flight. * Please discuss the exact time of departure with your chauffeur, who will be happy to advise you based on your flight timing.
Meals: Breakfast
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Cycling
Kayaking
Hiking
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Visit markets
Meet local people
Rural home stays
Indigenous culture
Yoga
Meditation
Wellness retreat
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Outdoors & Nature
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Travel with Purpose
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