Begin your Sri Lanka adventure with a relaxing morning.

In the afternoon visit St Mary’s church, located in the heart of Negombo. St Mary’s is one of the largest cathedrals in Sri Lanka and renowned for its neoclassical architecture dating back to its groundbreaking in 1874 and completion in 1924.

Relax by the pool or the ocean before enjoying dinner together as the sun sets.

Enjoy a delightful morning at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll witness the compassionate care given to rescued elephants in a serene and natural setting.

Spend the early afternoon at leisure, followed by a visit to the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its rich cultural and religious significance. Carved into a massive rock formation, this sacred site boasts a labyrinthine complex of caves adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and over 150 stunning statues of Lord Buddha.

After an early breakfast visit the UNESCO World Heritage listed Sigiriya fortress. Immerse yourself in the captivating history and breathtaking scenery of the iconic 5th-century rock fortress of King Kasyapa in Sri Lanka. 

Spend two hours at leisure before departing for the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka. Once the splendid capital of the island, Polonnaruwa boasts a wealth of well-preserved ruins that offer a glimpse into the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval past.

After breakfast travel to Kandy via Matale.
Visit the Matale Spice Garden and enjoy a spice walk

In the evening enjoy the Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show, running for over 40 years this show brings together all Sri Lankan dance types, providing an opporunity to glimpse Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Spend your morning visiting the UNESCO World Heritage Site, of Kandy Temple of Tooth. This revered site houses the relic of the Buddha’s tooth, making it one of the holiest places of worship for Buddhists worldwide.

In the afternoon visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya First developed as a pleasure garden under royalty and later harmonized by the British.

This morning board a train from Kandy train station to Nuwara Eliya. This Kandy to Nuwara Eliya train ride is regarded as one of the most beautiful train rides in the world.

Enjoy 2 hours at your leisure, before journeying to The Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya for High Tea – a British style afternoon tea featuring Sri Lankan tea and finger foods.

Begin your day with a visit to the Damro Tea Factory, known for producing some of the finest Ceylon tea. Enjoy a windy drive through beautiful tea plantations and visit the picturesque Ramboda falls, a multi-tiered waterfall that is over 100 meters tall.

In the afternoon choose to visit the Nuwara Eliya Post Office, the Nuwara Eliya Gardens, to walk along the Gregory Lake or partake in a round of Golf at the Nuwara Eliya Golf Course. 

This morning travel to the town of Ella. Situated at an elevation of 1,041 metres above sea level the area is dense with numerous varieties of flora and fauna, and surrounded by hills covered with cloud forests and tea plantations. Enjoy lunch and a spot of shopping in the town.

In the afternoon take a 30 minute stroll through the jungle to the Nine Arch Bridge, set amidst lush, green tea plantations. Part of the railway line between Ella and Demodara, it is a beautiful example of colonial-era railway construction, made entirely of brick and stone.

For those who choose get up early, enjoy a 30 minute hike up the Little Adams Peak to see the sun rise.

After breakfast travel to Yala National Park. En route visit the Ravana Falls. Upon arrival embark on a jeep adventure into the heart of Yala National Park, spanning 1,259 km² of awe-inspiring landscapes. Encounter a diverse array of wildlife, from majestic elephants to elusive leopards, amidst vast grasslands, shrubs, and dunes.

Enjoy a sleep in this morning, before travelling to Galle, where you will explore several picturesque beaches around the area including Jungle Beach, Turtle Beach, and Blue Beach Island. Capture a stunning picture at Coconut Tree Hill, known for its breathtaking views.

Check into your hotel at Unawatuna beach and spend your afternoon at leisure.

In the evening embark on a walking tour of the historic Galle Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site that showcases Sri Lanka’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Spend the morning relaxing on Unawatuna beach or exploring the area at your leisure.

In the afternoon visit Kosgoda’s renowned Turtle Hatchery, where you can witness the incredible journey of hatchlings to the sea.

After breakfast travel to Colombo. Enjoy the Colombo City tour visiting key attractions such as Galle Face Green, the Beira Lake, and the Viharamahadevi Park.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.

In the evening visit the popular Galle Face green (a popular hang out for the locals) and mix and mingle with the locals as the sun sets.

Enjoy your last day in Sri Lanka at leisure, take advantage of local shopping or visit the Vihara Maha Devi park (Victoria park), Simamalakaya temple (built on the Beire Lake) or the Colombo Museum in the centre of Colombo.

After a late check-out enjoy a final group dinner at the Cricket Club Restaurant, before departing for the airport and the return flight to Auckland.