Ceylon Endearment (26 Days)

Day 1: Airport > Hikkaduwa

1. Unawatuna Beach
   Pass by
   Arrive at Colombo International Airport here you will met by a designated chauffer guide from lakpura. After the formalities at the Airport you will be escorted to your car and proceed to Hikkaduwa and check-in to the hotel.

Day 2: Hikkaduwa > Galle

1. Galle Dutch Fort
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Explore the secrets of Galle where the Portuguese and Dutch made their headquarters. Visit the Galle Fort which is one of the best-preserved fortifications in Asia. View the museums of Galle and the lighthouse. Walk through the cobblestoned streets with their Dutch names and listen to your guide tell their stories. Relax with a king coconut or a cup of tea caressed by a breeze of the tropics.
2. Handunugoda Tea Estate
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the Handunugoda Tea Factory which is also known as the Virgin White Tea Factory. Learn the history of the tea that this factory produces. Get to know how the famous Virgin White Tea is plucked and processed completely untouched by human hands. Engage in a tasting session with a delicious cup of tea and scrumptious chocolate cake. Get a chance to purchase some tea leaves as a souvenir.

Day 3: Galle > Galle

1. 1h · Admission ticket not included
   Rumassala hill 3 kms east of Galle is the landmark of Unuwatuna beach because of the picturesque white Buddhist dagoba on top of it. Rumassala rock is one of the five Sri Lankan spots believed to originate from parts of Mount Dronagiri. They fell down when Hanuman carried the Dronagiri on his flight back to Lanka in order to use its Sanjiwani herb to rescue Lakhshmana and Rama who were in need of this medical plant to be reanimated after suffering severe injuries. Rumassala is also said to be an abode of Sita during her stay in Lanka
2. stilt fishermen Sri Lanka
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Watch the captivating sight of fishermen perched on stilts in the waters along the coast of Koggala. Hear the stories of how stilt fishing came to Sri Lanka, from the mouths of the fishermen who have practiced the craft for generations. Learn how the stilt fishing is done in detail and marvel at the level of skill that goes into it. Get some amazing photographs of the fishermen silhouetted against the shoreline at sunset.

Day 4: Galle > Mirissa

1. Mirissa Beach
   8h
   Spend few days leisurely at Mirissa Beach. Mirissa is a crescent shaped beach and when laying on the smooth sands you see the beach curving outwards on either side, giving the impression that you are laying on a far away, deserted palm covered island. Mirissa is quietly ensconced in the far eastern end of Weligama Bay. These beaches, now famous the world over once formed part of undiscovered natural treasures on the island of Sri Lanka

Day 5: Mirissa

1. Mirissa Beach
   8h
   Spend few days leisurely at Mirissa Beach. Mirissa is a crescent shaped beach and when laying on the smooth sands you see the beach curving outwards on either side, giving the impression that you are laying on a far away, deserted palm covered island. Mirissa is quietly ensconced in the far eastern end of Weligama Bay. These beaches, now famous the world over once formed part of undiscovered natural treasures on the island of Sri Lanka

Day 6: Mirissa

1. Mirissa Beach
   8h
   Spend few days leisurely at Mirissa Beach. Mirissa is a crescent shaped beach and when laying on the smooth sands you see the beach curving outwards on either side, giving the impression that you are laying on a far away, deserted palm covered island. Mirissa is quietly ensconced in the far eastern end of Weligama Bay. These beaches, now famous the world over once formed part of undiscovered natural treasures on the island of Sri Lanka

Day 7: Mirissa

1. Mirissa Beach
   8h
   Spend few days leisurely at Mirissa Beach. Mirissa is a crescent shaped beach and when laying on the smooth sands you see the beach curving outwards on either side, giving the impression that you are laying on a far away, deserted palm covered island. Mirissa is quietly ensconced in the far eastern end of Weligama Bay. These beaches, now famous the world over once formed part of undiscovered natural treasures on the island of Sri Lanka

Day 8: Mirissa > Ussangoda > Yala

1. Ussangoda National Park
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Ussangoda is a strange coastal area because of its lack of trees. Its serpentine rock contains toxic heavy metals. Only specific smaller plants were able to adapt to this soil. But according to the Ramayana legends there are two more explanation for the baldness of Ussangoda. After meeting Sitadevi Lord Hanuman provoked the mighty King Ravana and his army of RakshasasIt resulted in Lord Hanuman's tail being set on fire by Rakshasas. Hanuman in turn went on to torch parts of King Ravana's empire with his burning tail. Ussangoda is said to be one of these burnt areas. Besides the Ramyana Trail legend has it that earlier on the Ussangoda plateau was used an airport by King Ravana for his Dandumonara peachock chariot, before Hanuman devastated the landing site. On completion proceed to Yala and check in to the hotel

Day 9: Yala > Yala

1. Yala National Park
   4h
   Explore Yala National Park by jeep and witness Sri Lanka’s amazing wildlife, including leopards, elephants, deer, crocodiles, birds, and beautiful natural landscapes.

Day 10: Yala > Ella

1. Buduruwagala Temple
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Buduruwagala is an ancient buddhist temple in Sri Lanka. The complex consists of seven statues and belongs to the Mahayana school of thought. The statues date back to the 10th century. The gigantic Buddh a statue still bears traces of its original stuccoed robe and a long streak of orange suggests it was once brightly painted. The central of the three figures to the Buddha's right is thought to be the Buddhist mythological figure-the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara.
2. Ella Rock
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Thereafter proceed to Ella and check into the hotel. (Travel Time: 1 ½ to 2 hrs) Later that evening go on a lovely City Tour around Ella. Explore the city of Ella and it’s most interesting places. Pass through bright green tea fields, and tough stretches of rock, and get to see the magical views of Little Adam’s Peak. Walk over the history seeped Nine Arches Bridge and listen to the story of its construction. End your hike at the Demodara Railway station with its unique loop-over track design. This tour gives you the chance to see the best sights of Sri Lanka.

Day 11: Ella

1. Ella Rock
   5h · Admission ticket not included
   This picturesque a three hour hike takes you up to Ella Rock, which is one of the highest viewpoints in the area. Watch the distant Namunukula Range and Little Adam’s Peak along the way. Get to see some stupendous early morning views of the landscape from the top of the rock. Some of the identifiable landmarks that can be seen are the Bandarawala Range, Poonagala Hills, Narangala, the Ella Gap and the Badulla train tracks.

Day 12: Ella > Haputale > Nuwara Eliya

1. Ella Railway Station
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   Enjoy panoramic views as you take a train ride from Haputale to Nuwara Eliya. Watch the scenic mountains, beautiful waterfalls and bright green fields of tea. See the little misty villages and towns filled with bright lively locals pass you by. Relax to views of dark forests or enjoy the thrill of heart- stopping drops right at your feet. A leisurely ride that reveals Sri Lanka's beauty
   
   Your chauffer will pick you up from Nanu Oya station and go on a lovely city tour in Nuwara Eliya. Thereafter explore the beautiful city of Nuwara Eliya.
2. Victoria Park of Nuwara Eliya
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the highland city that was the premium holiday resort town of the British in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Enjoy walking through the streets with their pretty little cottages, quaint villas and beautiful mansions. Make a memory in the old red-bricked post office as you purchase an inexpensive and colorful postcard to take home or send to your friends. Relax at Queen Victoria Park or on the shores of Lake Gregory

Day 13: Nuwara Eliya > Kandy

1. Pedro Tea Factory
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Tea Factory and a plantation where you would see how the world’s famous “Ceylon Tea” is manufactured. In 1824 a tea plant was brought to Ceylon by the British from China and was planted in the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya for non- commercial purposes. James Taylor was a British citizen who introduced commercial tea plantation in Sri Lanka (Ceylon). He arrived to Sri Lanka in 1852 and settled down in Loolecondera estate in Kandy. Today even people who have never heard of Sri Lanka are familiar with Ceylon tea, which is known for its quality.
2. Ramboda Waterfall
   30m · Admission ticket not included
   visit Ramboda Falls, which is the 11th tallest in the country. Get a guided tour through Mackwoods Tea Estate and learn more about the varieties, processing methods and qualities of tea. Walk through the shaded avenues and colorful mazes of Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Relax and take a walk along the shores of Lake Gregory. A peaceful day filled with lots of beautiful sights.
3. Kandy Lake Club Cultural Show
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   The Kandy Cultural Show gives an opportunity to experience some of the traditions of Sri Lanka. Enjoy this hour-long extravaganza as some of the most popular art forms of the island take to the stage. Get wowed by fire dancers and sword dancers. Watch the colorful Kandyan dancers take to the air to the thrumming primal beat of the drums.

Day 14: Kandy

1. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was built in the 16th century as the place of veneration and protection for Lord Buddha’s sacred tooth. Walk through the beautifully embellished passageways and elaborately painted halls, done in red, cream and black. Lounge against delicately carved pillars and get amazed by the beautiful golden statues. Get an unforgettable experience of history and art.
2. Royal Botanical Gardens
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, which were formed in the early 19th century. Walk through the vast area containing over 4000 species of plants. Enjoy the learning more about the orchids, spices and medicinal plants. Wander down avenues shaded by large and rare trees or bordered by flowering plants. Enjoy seeing the cannonball tree, walking over the wobbly suspension bridge and through the short hedge mazes or even climbing the twisty trees that make wonderful jungle gyms.

Day 15: Kandy > Elkaduwa > Matale > Dambulla

1. Sembuwatta Reach
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   One of the main attractions of Elkaduwa is the Sembuwatta Lake, which is created from natural spring water. Sembuwatta Lake is believed to be 30 to 40 feet deep (According to locals). Alongside of the Sembuwatta Lake there is a natural swimming pool, consisting of natural spring water, which has captured the hearts of many nature lovers.
2. Ranweli Spice Garden
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Do a guided tour of a spice and herbal garden, where you learn about spices, such as coriander, chili, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg; and their uses. Take part in a traditional cooking demonstration that shows you how to make Sri Lankan cuisine while making full use of spices. Learn to make roti or create curry powder from scratch in one of the workshops in Spice Garden

Day 16: Dambulla > Sigiriya > Dambulla

1. Sigiriya Lion Rock
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ' the Lion Rock'. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.
2. Sigiriya Craft Village
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Sigiriya is a little village that retains its authentic traditions and culture. Get a chance to go on an oxen cart ride and experience the world from the view of a village farmer. Have a relaxing catamaran safari through a calm lake. Walk through the golden fields ripe with their harvest of paddy. Watch an enjoyable traditional cooking demonstration that teaches you the basics of Sri Lankan cuisine. Delight your tastebuds with a home cooked lunch; made over a wood-fire and served on fragrant lotus leaves placed over woven trays. Enjoy the life of a Sri Lankan villager, just this day
3. Minneriya National Park
   4h · Admission ticket not included
   This three-hour safari takes you on a ride through the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October. In addition to elephants, get a chance to also see many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in the scrublands, forests and other areas

Day 17: Dambulla > Polonnaruwa > Dambulla

1. Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the second major capital of Sri Lanka. Walk through the ruins of the city that flourished between the 10th to the 13th century AD. View important monuments such as Gal Vihara, Vatadage, the lotus bath, Lankathilaka Temple and the statue of King Parakramabahu whose reign was considered the golden age of Polonnaruwa. Get to know more about Sri Lanka's ancient history
   
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2. Dambulla Cave Temple
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex

Day 18: Dambulla > Tricomalee

1. Thirukoneswaram Kovil
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit Koneswaram Temple and the Fort Fedric. (Travel Time: 20 to 30 mins)
   
   Visit this ancient temple praised by famous Indian poet-saints and mentioned by several famous personas around the world. See the beautiful murals describing the history of the temple. Worship at the little cave shrine that is has its start in 1580 BC, as compared to the actual temple which was developed in 400
   
   BC. Marvel at the giant statue of King Ravana who, according to legend, worshipped this shrine
2. Trincomalee Harbour
   1h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the Fort of Trincomalee originally built by the Portuguese in 1624 CE. See the stones that once formed the Koneswaram temple before the Portuguese destroyed it. Listen to the history of Fort Frederick, which was dismantled and rebuilt by the Dutch. On completion return to the hotel and relax

Day 19: Trincomalee

1. Nilaveli Beach
   5h
   Visit Nilaveli and relax on Nilaveli Beach. Relax on Nilaveli Beach which is considered one of the most perfect beaches in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the golden sand swaying palms and clear blue sea. See the ancient 10th century Tamil inscription that mention that the beach was part of a land grant to the Koneswaram Temple
2. Pigeon Island National Park
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the Pigeon Island National Park consisting of the smaller pigeon island and larger pigeon island and the coral reef that encircles the larger island. See the rock pigeon that makes the island its breeding grounds. Explore the islands to see the many coral types and fauna that can be found here.

Day 20: Trincomalee

1. Trincomalee Beach
   5h · Admission ticket not included
   This five-hour tour gives you an opportunity to see the biggest mammals on earth, the whales, in their natural habitat. Get a chance to see blue whales, sperm whales and fin whales as they swim in the waters to the south of Sri Lanka. Gain more knowledge about the whales as a species from a qualified naturalist and learn to identify them. This tour gives you a responsible whale watching experience with a minimal imprint on nature.

Day 21: Tricomalee > Jaffna

1. Jaffna Fort
   3h · Admission ticket not included
   Jaffna, which consists of the northern peninsula of the island with a capital city under the same name. Marvel at the architecture and creativity of ancient Hindu Temples, such as Nallur, Nainativu or Mavittapuram, with over four millenia worth of history to their name. Get to see many other attractions such as the Jaffna's Dutch Fort; war memorials from the recent war; the Saraswathy Mahal Library, Nagadeepa Vihara and the palace of the last king of Jaffna

Day 22: Jaffna

1. Nagadeepa Rajamaha Viharaya
   4h · Admission ticket not included
   Tour Nayinathivu a historic island to the north of Jaffna, which is known as Nagadeepa by the Sinhalese; and also had the name Manipallavam in ancient times. Get to see the land where the Naga people who worshipped the snake (or Naga) are believed to have lived. See the evidence of their passing in the snake worship at the ancient Nainativu Nagapooshani Amman Temple and the legends and history of Nagadeepa Purana Vihara.
   
   Visit the historic Nagadeepa Purana Viharaya which is one of just sixteen of the holiest Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka. See the unique architecture of this vihara which is believed to be the place that Buddha stopped at during his second visit to Sri Lanka. Listen to the legends and history surrounding the visit and the construction of the temple
2. 2h · Admission ticket not included
   Visit the Nainativu Nagaooshani Amman Temple, with a proven history of at least two millennia as according to
   
   records by Ptolemy. Get to know about the legends surrounding the Temples; such as those of God Indra's worship and much more. Enjoy looking at the majestic Dravidian Hindu architecture; with its four beautiful Gopurams, several halls or Mandapams, and chariots. Nainativu Nagaooshani Amman Temple is one of only 64 Shakthi Peedams around the world.

Day 23: Jaffna > Anuradapura

1. Mahamevnawa Dhammachethiya Buddhist Monastery Anuradhapura
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Walk through the ancient ruined city of Anuradhapura, which was the capital for over a millennium until the 10th century AD. View the pagodas, monastic buildings and ponds that are scatter all over the vast area. Visit important landmarks such as Jetavanarama, which was one of the tallest buildings of the ancient world, the Sri Maha Bodhi and the ruins of the huge Abhayagiri Monastery. Gain more knowledge about Sri Lanka's history as you walk in the footsteps of Kings.

Day 24: Anuradapura > Colombo

1. Colombo Fort
   2h · Admission ticket not included
   Colombo City Tour Experience the colorful lights and bright life of Colombo, the capital City of Sri Lanka. Visit historic monuments such as the Old Lighthouse, the Old Parliament, Galle Face Hotel, Galle Face Green, Gangarama Temple, the National Museum and more. Enjoy the malls of Independence Square or the Race Course. Visit boutique shops and designer stores. Enjoy the nightlife as you party till the morning

Day 25: Colombo > Negombo

1. Negombo Beach
   4h · Admission ticket not included
   Enjoy the sun on the sandy beaches of Negombo on the Western Coast of Sri Lanka. Watch the flourishing fis h industry, which is a centuries-old tradition. Ride an adrenaline high with some fun water sports. Enjoy the corals and underwater life while diving. See the 50-year-old ship-wreck just off the coast, where many varieties of fish make their home

Day 26: Negombo > BIA

1. Pass by
   After the breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to airport after spending a memorable time in this island.
   
   End of Tour

• Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
• Specialized infant seats are available
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness