9-Day Odyssey Through Sri Lanka’s Cultural and Natural Splendors
Crafted for travelers from India and beyond, this 9-day tour unveils the timeless beauty of Sri
Lanka, blending ancient heritage, lush landscapes, and coastal serenity. From the iconic
Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the wildlife-rich Yala National Park and the tranquil beaches of
Bentota, this journey offers an immersive experience of the island’s rich history and natural
wonders.
Itinerary
Starting Point: Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo
Destination: Habarana (approx. 170 km, 4.5 hours)
Overnight Stay: Habarana
Key Attractions: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and be warmly greeted by our
Travels representatives. En route to Habarana, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a
sanctuary for over 65 elephants, including orphaned calves and babies born in captivity, best
seen during feeding (09:30-10:00 or 13:30-14:00) or bathing times (10:00-10:30 or 14:00-
14:30). Proceed to Habarana and explore Sigiriya, a 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage
Site known as Lion Rock. Climb the 600-foot fortress to discover ancient palace ruins,
vibrant frescoes of 21 damsels, and the serene Water and Boulder Gardens (approx. 3-hour
excursion). Check into your Habarana hotel for a restful evening
Starting Point: Habarana
Destination: Kandy (approx. 100 km, 3 hours)
Overnight Stay: Kandy
Key Attractions: Dambulla Cave Temple, Matale Spice Garden, Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Relic, Kandy City Tour, Kandy Cultural Show
Suggested Image Theme: Temples
After breakfast, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO site atop a 500-foot rock,
featuring ancient caves with a 47-foot Buddha statue, 150 life-sized sculptures, and vibrant
frescoes from the 1st century B.C. Continue to Kandy, stopping at the Matale Spice Garden
to discover Sri Lanka’s aromatic spices. In Kandy, pay homage at the Temple of the Sacred
Tooth Relic, home to Lord Buddha’s revered tooth since the 4th century A.D. Enjoy a city
tour, including Kandy Lake, Kandy View Point, and a Gem Gallery. If time permits,
experience the vibrant Kandy Cultural Show. Overnight in Kandy.
Starting Point: Kandy
Destination: Nuwara Eliya (approx. 80 km, 2.5 hours)
Overnight Stay: Nuwara Eliya
Key Attractions: Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, Tea Factory, Ramboda Falls
Suggested Image Theme: Tea Plantations
Begin your day with a visit to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, renowned for its
exotic flora. Journey to Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” for its cool climate and
colonial charm. En route, tour a Tea Factory to learn about Ceylon tea production and admire
the cascading Ramboda Falls. Upon arrival, soak in the scenic beauty of Nuwara Eliya’s
mountains, valleys, and tea plantations, dotted with English-style cottages. Spend a leisurely
evening at your hotel in this charming hill station. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Starting Point & Destination: Nuwara Eliya
Overnight Stay: Nuwara Eliya
Key Attractions: Hakgala Botanical Garden, Victoria Park, Gregory Lake
Suggested Image Theme: Flowers
After breakfast, explore the Hakgala Botanical Garden, nestled at 5,400 feet, celebrated for
its diverse plant species and breathtaking views. Stroll through Victoria Park, a serene spot
ideal for birdwatching and picnics, where rare birds are often spotted. Conclude your day at
Gregory Lake, a picturesque man-made lake perfect for a relaxing boat ride amidst lush
greenery and colonial ambiance. Enjoy another night in the cool comfort of Nuwara Eliya.
Starting Point: Nuwara Eliya
Destination: Yala (approx. 180 km, 5 hours)
Overnight Stay: Yala
Key Attractions: Brief Stop in Ella, Yala National Park
Suggested Image Theme: Leopards
Depart Nuwara Eliya for Yala, making a brief stop in the scenic town of Ella to admire its
misty hills. Arrive at Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife sanctuaries,
renowned for its diverse ecosystems and the chance to spot Sri Lankan leopards, elephants,
and over 130 bird species. Check into your hotel near Yala, where you’ll spend the evening
preparing for an exciting safari adventure. Overnight in Yala.
Starting Point: Yala
Destination: Bentota (approx. 230 km, 5.5 hours)
Overnight Stay: Bentota
Key Attractions: Yala National Park Safari, Galle Fort & Beach
Suggested Image Theme: Safari Jeep
Start your day with an early morning safari in Yala National Park, exploring Block I’s 14,101
hectares teeming with leopards, elephants, spotted deer, crocodiles, and wild buffalo. After
breakfast, travel to Bentota, stopping en route to explore the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO
site, and its adjacent beach. Arrive in Bentota, check into your beachside hotel, and unwind
with the soothing sound of waves. Overnight in Bentota.
Starting Point & Destination: Bentota
Overnight Stay: Bentota
Key Attractions: Maadu River Ride, Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, Bentota Water Sports
Suggested Image Theme: Waves
After breakfast, embark on a serene Maadu River boat ride, gliding through mangroves and
spotting local wildlife. Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery to learn about conservation efforts
for endangered sea turtles. Thrill-seekers can enjoy Bentota’s water sports, including jet
skiing, banana rides, and tube rides. Spend a relaxing evening at your hotel, soaking in the
coastal charm of Bentota. Overnight in Bentota.
Starting Point: Bentota
Destination: Colombo (approx. 80 km, 2 hours)
Overnight Stay: Colombo
Key Attractions: Colombo City Tour, Fort, Sea Street, Hindu Temple, Dutch Church of
Wolfendhal, BMICH, Avukana Buddha Replica, Independence Square, Shopping at ODEL
Unlimited
Suggested Image Theme: Cityscape
Travel from Bentota to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital. Embark on a city tour, driving
through the bustling Cinnamon Gardens and visiting the historic Fort, Sea Street’s
goldsmiths’ quarters, a Hindu Temple with intricate carvings, and the 1749 Dutch Church of
Wolfendhal. Explore the BMICH, the Avukana Buddha replica, and Independence Square. If
time permits, indulge in shopping at ODEL Unlimited for designer apparel and culinary
delights. Overnight in Colombo.
Starting Point: Colombo
Destination: Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo
Overnight Stay: None
Key Attractions: Departure
Suggested Image Theme: Airplane
After breakfast, enjoy some free time in Colombo before your private transfer to
Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure. Bid farewell to Sri Lanka, carrying
cherished memories of its ancient fortresses, lush highlands, wildlife adventures, and golden
beaches. Stay connected via email or social media until your next unforgettable journey!