Embark on an unforgettable journey across Sri Lanka’s most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This cultural and nature-focused itinerary takes you through ancient kingdoms, sacred temples, lush forests, and colonial towns. Travel through time and history, all while enjoying the island’s breathtaking landscapes.
Your Sri Lankan adventure begins with a warm welcome at Bandaranaike International Airport. A short drive brings you to Negombo, a charming coastal town known for its colonial canals and golden shores.
Overnight in Negombo
Travel north to the cradle of Sinhalese civilization, Anuradhapura. Explore this ancient city, once a flourishing capital and now a sacred pilgrimage site, by bicycle. Glide past colossal stupas, moonstones, and the revered Sri Maha Bodhi tree, believed to be the oldest recorded tree in the world.
Overnight in Anuradhapura
Head to Polonnaruwa, another ancient UNESCO city. Cycle through its immaculately preserved ruins, shrines, and royal palaces that echo stories of a powerful medieval kingdom. Later, arrive in Dambulla to explore the famous Rock Cave Temple, where colorful frescoes and hundreds of Buddha statues line ancient stone caverns.
Overnight in Dambulla
Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a towering citadel that once guarded a king’s palace in the sky. Later, journey to Kandy, nestled in the hills and known as the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. In the evening, witness the tranquil ritual at the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a deeply revered Buddhist shrine.
Overnight in Kandy
Explore the Knuckles Conservation Area, a UNESCO-listed cloud forest with rocky paths, undiscovered waterfalls, and uncommon plants and animals. Take pleasure in a nature walk through this foggy area where birdsong and silence are the norm. By evening, return to Kandy.
Overnight in Kandy
Head into the highlands, stopping at the stunning Ramboda Falls before visiting a tea factory to learn how the island's famed Ceylon tea is made. Try your hand at tea plucking, then arrive in the colonial hill town of Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England."
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Rise early to explore Horton Plains National Park, a surreal plateau cloaked in mist. Trek through grasslands and cloud forest to the dramatic cliff edge known as World’s End, offering jaw-dropping views of the southern plains.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Take the iconic scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, winding past rolling tea fields and waterfalls. Stop at Ravana Falls en route before continuing to Udawalawe, home to one of Sri Lanka’s finest elephant reserves.
Overnight in Udawalawe
Embark on a morning jeep safari through Udawalawe National Park, where elephants roam freely and water buffalo graze by shimmering lakes. Then head toward the Sinharaja Rain Forest, the last remaining virgin rainforest on the island.
Overnight in Sinharaja
Explore the Sinharaja Biosphere Reserve with a knowledgeable naturalist guide. This UNESCO-listed rainforest teems with endemic birds, butterflies, and lush tropical vegetation. A paradise for nature lovers and biodiversity enthusiasts.
Overnight in Sinharaja
Travel to the southern coast and step back in time at the Galle Dutch Fort, a beautifully preserved colonial fort town by the sea. Wander its cobbled lanes lined with boutiques, cafes, and lighthouses.
Overnight in Galle
Enjoy two full days to unwind. Bask in the sunshine, explore hidden beaches, take a bicycle ride through paddy fields, or pamper yourself with an Ayurvedic spa treatment. Optional excursions to a turtle hatchery, Madhu River boat safari, or cycling tour can be arranged.
Overnight in Galle
After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport via the scenic Southern Expressway, filled with the stories, scents, and sacred spaces of Sri Lanka etched into your memory.