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14 Day itinerary in Sri Lanka, Asia

Sri Lanka for Adventure Seekers

You will embark in a 2 weeks journey through the beautiful Sri Lanka were you be able to discover the magnificent nature of this country, the warmth of their people and its rich culture.

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JustynaSheharaVinu

By Justyna, Shehara and Vinu

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Average
help_outline

Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English

GUIDANCE

Tour Leader, Driver as a Guide

starting point

Katunayake

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Cycling

Kayaking

Hiking

Rafting

Snorkeling/Diving

Skiing/Snowboarding

Outdoors & Nature

Adventure

Classic Sights

Start/End

Night

Highlights

1

Discover the wildlife of Wilpattu National Park

2

Visit this 1st century BC Dambulla Rock Temple.

3

Wander through this UNESCO ancient kingdoms.

4

See the lovable Asian elephants at the Udawale Elephant transit home.

Itinerary

Mid-Range Accommodation expand_more

Day 1

place 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 Exemplary Voyages 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. Overnight at your accommodation

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Anawasal Resort - Yoga & Wellness
Day 2

place 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 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. Return back to the hotel and relax. Overnight at your accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Anawasal Resort - Yoga & Wellness
Day 3

place 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. Later, you will be driven to Anuradhapura ancient city to learn its history. 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. Overnight at your accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Purana Gama (පුරාණ ගම) - Anuradhpura
Day 4

place Anuradhapura – Ritigala – Dambulla – Pidurangala (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)

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 accidentally 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 which display the landmarks in the history of the Sinhalese people. Check-in at the hotel and spend a leisurely evening. Overnight at your accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Back of Beyond - Jungle Hideaway, Pidurangala
Day 5

place Pidurangala – Hiriwadunna – Polonnaruwa – Pidurangala (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. 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. 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. Also during the cycle tour you will visit a local temple and will be blessed by a Monk for good luck. You will end the ride by tasting an authentic Sri Lankan rice & curry lunch in a Mud hut in the village freshly prepared by a local family. If you are interested you can also join them for a cooking session. After the lunch you will be driven to Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa is the second largest city in the North Central province and was once the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th -13th Centuries. Polonnaruwa is famous for its clean and beautiful environment, astonishing ancient constructions and most importantly its huge lake ‘Parakrama Samudra’ built in 1200. The city has many untouched ancient archaeological relic sites and remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country. Overnight at your accommodation

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Back of Beyond - Jungle Hideaway, Pidurangala
Day 6

place Pidurangala – Sigiriya – Matale – Kandy (Transfer. approx.: 3 hours)

Have a hot cup of tea along with your breakfast and today you will be traveling to the royal hill capital, Kandy. Before proceeding to Kandy, you will be taken to Sigiriya rock Fortress. EXPLORE – The Sigiriya Rock Fortress Sigiriya consists of 1200 steps. The first part of the visit is a leisurely walk through the pleasure gardens. Then one starts to climb. There are two areas where one can take a break on the way up. The entire duration of the experience takes approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on the speed at which you want to climb. Water is provided. If it looks like it might rain don’t forget to take an umbrella from the vehicle. Thereafter on route to Kandy, stop by Matale Spice Garden to be educated of Sri Lankan spices. EXPERIENCE - Visit to Matale spice Garden The Spice garden in Matale has long been renowned for its spices. Since ancient times, traders from all around the world who came to Sri Lanka brought their native cuisines to the island, resulting in a rich diversity of cooking styles and techniques. Once you reach the hill capital Kandy, engage on a city tour to explore the royalty around the area. EXPLORE - Panoramic city tour of the Royal City 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. The sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha is enshrined at the The Temple of The Tooth. End your city tour by paying a visit to the monument of Kandy, The Temple of The Tooth and experience a Pooja ceremony. EXPLORE – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic Sri Dalada Maligawa or the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the Royal Palace complex which houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: The Kandyan Manor Homestay
Day 7

place Loolcondera – Ambuluwawa – Kandy (Transfer. approx.: 4 hours)

In the morning you will first engage on a trek to Loolcondera Tea Estate. EXPERIENCE - Trek to Loolcondera 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. Upon completion we travel to Ambuluwawa Tower. EXPLORE - Visit to Ambuluwalwa Tower 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. You will be driven by a tuk for about 15 - 25 minutes to reach the temple. overnight stay at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: The Kandyan Manor Homestay
Day 8

place Kandy– Ella (Transfer. approx.: 3.5 hours)

Indulge yourself with breakfast this morning as we travel to Kandy railway station for your scenic transfer to Ella for your overnight stay. EXPEREINCE – Train journey to Ella The train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella powers down through Sri Lanka’s southern hill country, crossing the tea plantations before it winds up and disappears into the clouds, weaving in and out of the many mountain tunnels as it finally descends to Ella.It’s indeed spectacular and definitely the most beautiful train ride in Sri Lanka, if not in the world. Upon our arrival to Ella we travel to Little Adams Peak for our trek as we reach the peak of the trek just in time to observe the sunset. Afterwards we visit the Nine arch Bridge. EXPERIENCE – A hike to Little Adam’s Peak Walk along rustic footpaths sandwiched between tall grass and thorny bushes as the wind blow cold gusts in your faces every now and then. Covered in deep green vegetation that surroundings would stun you with the enormity of nature. This is approximately a 2km hike and is not as demanding as conquering Ella Rock. However, the views from the top of Little Adam’s Peak are bound to leave you awestruck. EXPLORE – A visit to Nine Arch Bridge The Nine Arch Bridge in Ella is on the Demodara loop and spans 91 meters at a height of 24m. The beautiful nine arches make it a very picturesque spot especially as it is located in a dense jungle and agricultural setting. Behind the railway, a forest is booming, and below, tea leaves are being cultivated. There is a story behind it that you would love to hear. The World War One broke out and the steel consignment allocated for this site was seized and was used for war related projects. When the work came to a stoppage the Sri Lankan (named Appuhami) came forward and build the bridge with solid stone bricks and cement without steel. Check-in at the hotel and relax amidst the nature. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Ella Jungle Resort
Day 9

place Ella

Have your refreshing breakfast while witnessing the luxurious views through the mist. Today you will be exploring this beautiful landscape further. 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. Return back to the hotel and relax the rest of your day. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Ella Jungle Resort
Day 10

place Ella – Diyaluma – Udawalawa – Talalla (Transfer. approx.: 5 hours)

Enjoy your delicious breakfast at the hotel and travel to Tangalle for your overnight stay. On route you will visit Diyaluma Waterfall for your trek up the waterfall listed as the second largest waterfall in Sri Lanka. EXPLORE – Visit to Diyaluma Waterfall Diyaluma Falls is the 2nd biggest waterfall in Sri Lanka. If you crave adventures and always dreamed of swimming in a waterfall it’s a hike you must try during your travels around Sri Lanka. And this one is a special one! You’ll reach the top of the falls at a height of 220-meters. The views from up there are breathtaking. Additionally, there are multiple small falls and natural pools ideal for bathing. EXPERIENCE – Visit to Udawalawa Transit Home The ‘Elephant Transit Home’, associated with the Born Free Foundation (UK). Here, orphaned or sick elephants are fed and cared for until they are strong enough to be returned to the wild. The centre allows you to visit at the feeding times of 10.30am, 2.30pm, and 6.30pm. From behind a barrier you can watch the elephants ambling along behind a keeper, into the compound where they will be fed milk through plastic hoses with funnels attached, some stamping and trumpeting with impatience. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Talalla Retreat
Day 11

place Sinharaja – Talalla (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. 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 back to Talalla. Arrive at Tangalle and if you wish to explore around the area further we recommend you to experience the Idle Bikes’ Paddy Trail (Optional Activity) Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Talalla Retreat
Day 12

place Tangalle

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 magnificent place named, Sri Yoga Shala where highly expertise yoga instructors would always happy to help you practice the best yoga sessions. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Talalla Retreat
Day 13

place Tangalle – Galle (Transfer. approx.: 1.5 hours)

Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel along with a hot cup of tea. Begin your day by heading towards the historical city Galle. Once you arrive at the destination engage in walking tour of the Dutch Fort. 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. Galle Fort originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663 spans over 90 acres. 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. Overnight at your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Mid-Range Accommodation: Parawa House
Day 14

place Galle – Colombo – Airport (Transfer. approx: 2 hours)

All good things must come to an end. Enjoy one last relaxing day by the poolside to recharge our batteries and freshen up before our afternoon flight. If time permits you may stop at the commercial for panoramic tour of the Colombo city. Afterwards, continue towards the airport for your departure flight. 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

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • Purana Gama (පුරාණ ගම) - Anuradhpura
  • Anawasal Resort - Yoga & Wellness
  • Back of Beyond - Jungle Hideaway, Pidurangala
  • Ella Jungle Resort
  • Talalla Retreat
  • The Kandyan Manor Homestay
  • Parawa House

Meals expand_less

  • Breakfast (13)

Transport expand_less

  • Jeep cost for Half Day safari at Wilpattu (maximum 5 pax)
  • Train ticket from Hatton to Ella (guaranteed seats)
  • Transportation by air-conditioned coach with an English speaking Chauffeur guide

Activities expand_less

  • Wilpattu Boat safari
  • Entrance ticket for Half Day safari at Wilpattu
  • Jeep cost for Half Day safari at Wilpattu
  • Meditation session at Mihintale and visit to the ashram
  • Entrance ticket for Anuradhapura ancient city
  • Bicycle cost at Anuradhapura ancient city
  • Entrance ticket for Ritigala Monastery
  • Entrance ticket for Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Entrance ticket for Pidurangala Rock
  • Entrance ticket for Hiriwadunna Village tour
  • Entrance ticket for Polonnaruwa ancient city
  • Entrance ticket for Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Matale Spice Garden visit
  • Kandy city tour with Bahirawakanda view point
  • Entrance ticket for the Temple of The Tooth
  • Entrance ticket for Loolcondera Tea Estate
  • Entrance ticket for Ambuluwawa
  • Train ticket from Kandy to Ella
  • Visit to Little Adams peak
  • Visit to Nine Arch Bridge
  • Visit to Ella Rock
  • Trek to Diyaluma Waterfall
  • Entrance ticket for Elephants Transit Home
  • Entrance ticket for Sinharaja Rainforest

Extras expand_less

  • Water bottles for throughout the tour.
  • Entrance ticket for activities listed on the itinerary
  • Trekker fee at Adam’s Peak and Sinharaja Rainforest
  • Garlanding on arrival.

Not Included expand_less

  • Any other services not specified above.
  • Tips & portage throughout the tour.
  • Any other sites not included in the above.
  • All optional sites/ excursions and experiences mentioned in the itinerary (ask us for the prices)
  • Banking Fee
  • Expenses of a personal nature.
  • International Flights and Visa entry charges to Sri Lanka.

About Justyna

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Expertise: 

Cycling

Kayaking

Hiking

Rafting

Snorkeling/Diving

Visit markets

Meet local people

Rural home stays

Indigenous culture

Yoga

Meditation

Wellness retreat

Detox

Outdoors & Nature

Classic Sights

Food & Drink

Travel with Purpose

Beach & Sea

Travel has always been my passion while when your work and passion coalesce you can create great things. This realization prompted me to transition into the travel industry, so I could share with others the true nature of the island I value so much.

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FROM PRICE PER TRAVELER

$1,944.00 USD