Highlights
- Cruise down the 17th-century Hamilton Canal in Negombo
- Enjoy a scenic train ride across the famous Nine Arch Bridge near Ella
- Learn how Ceylon tea is made and taste a fresh cup at a tea factory
- Visit the rescued residents of the Elephant Transit Home
- Sneak in some beach time on the sands of Weligama
Brief Itinerary
| Day | Highlights | Overnight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Negombo | Negombo |
| Day 2 | Half-Day Tour of Negombo, Transfer to Ella | Ella |
| Day 3 | Scenic Train Ride, Hike to Little Adam's Peak, Visit Ravana Falls | Ella |
| Day 4 | Ravana Zipline Experience, Visit the Dambatenne Tea Factory | Ella |
| Day 5 | Transfer to Yala National Park via the Elephant Transit Home | Yala National Park |
| Day 6 | Morning Safari in Yala National Park, Free Afternoon | Yala National Park |
| Day 7 | Transfer to Sinharaja Forest Reserve | Sinharaja Forest Reserve |
| Day 8 | Jungle Trek in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve | Sinharaja Forest Reserve |
| Day 9 | Transfer to Weligama, See the Stilt Fishermen | Weligama |
| Day 10 | Guided Tour of Galle, Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise | Weligama |
| Day 11 | Transfer to Colombo, Depart |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive in Colombo, Transfer to Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Once you've touched down at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, meet your driver outside and transfer 30 minutes north to Negombo. This vibrant coastal city is known for its picturesque beaches, lively fishing community, and Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. Head straight to your beachfront hotel to check in and freshen up, then enjoy the rest of the day at your own pace. You could spend the day relaxing at the pool or beach or venture out to explore the area on your own.
A good place to start is the Negombo Fish Market, where you can experience the bustling atmosphere, see the daily catch, and observe local trading practices. Then, hop on a boat to explore the Hamilton Canal, commonly known as the "Dutch Canal" among locals, as it was originally constructed by the Dutch as a transportation route in the 17th century. Glide past lush mangroves, traditional fishing villages, and vibrant local markets, then disembark and find a local restaurant for dinner. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like grilled fish, prawn curry, or calamari, often prepared with aromatic spices and coconut.
Day 2: Half-Day Tour of Negombo, Transfer to Ella
Join your guide on a half-day tour of Negombo to discover its colonial past. Start with a walk along the Hamilton Canal, enjoying views of colorful fishing boats and lush mangroves. Continue to the Negombo Dutch Fort, built in 1672. Although much of the original structure has been lost to time, the remaining ruins still convey the fort's history as a key military stronghold. Discover a selection of centuries-old churches next, such as St. Mary's Church. Admire the striking pink exterior and grand architecture before stepping inside to look up at the ceiling frescoes that depict biblical scenes.
Stop at the temple of Angurukaramulla next, known for its enormous seated Buddha statue. Wander through the complex to see intricate murals, an ancient Bodhi tree, and a dragon-headed entrance to the inner shrine. As you venture inland, you'll pass through small fishing villages and lesser-known temples, where you can observe the locals go about their day-to-day lives, collecting the day's catch, praying, or shopping at the local markets. After the tour, set off on a five-hour transfer southeast to Ella, a picturesque town nestled among the misty hills and tea plantations of the Central Highlands.
Day 3: Scenic Train Ride, Hike to Little Adam's Peak, Visit Ravana Falls
Start your day with scenic train journey across the famous Nine Arch Bridge, renowned for its impressive architecture and dramatic setting. As the train chugs along, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the surrounding hills, verdant forests, and cascading waterfalls. After the one-hour ride, set off on a 2.2-mile (3.5 km) hike to Pahanthudawa, better known as "Little Adam's Peak." As you ascend, you'll pass through lush tea plantations and dense forests, offering glimpses of local wildlife and vibrant flora. You'll also have views of the Ella Gap, a dramatic gorge that stretches out beneath you.
At the top, you'll be rewarded with unobstructed views of the mist-clad mountains and valleys. When you're ready, trek back down along the same path and continue to Ravana Falls, just 10 minutes outside Ella. The falls are situated next to a road, so you don't have to worry about embarking on another trek. When you arrive, watch the water plummet 82 feet (25 m) into a clear pool below from the various viewpoints. Then, take a refreshing dip to cool down before transferring back to your hotel in Ella.
Chat with a local specialist who can help organize your trip.
Day 4: Ravana Zipline Experience, Visit the Dambatenne Tea Factory
Get ready for an adrenaline-packed morning as you head to Flying Ravana Adventure Park, home to one of the longest and highest ziplines in Asia. Complete a safety briefing, don your equipment, and sail across the 1,500-foot-long (457 m) zipline at a maximum speed of 50 mph (80 kph). If you're not too scared to look down, you'll enjoy a bird's-eye view of the surrounding tea plantations, rolling hills, and misty peaks.
After the thrilling ride, continue to the Dambatenne Tea Factory, a historic factory established in 1890 by the famous tea planter Sir Thomas Lipton. Tour the factory and witness the intricate process of tea production, from withering and rolling to fermentation and drying. As you walk through the fields, you'll also have the chance to immerse yourself in the experience by helping to pick tea leaves. Conclude with a tasting session, where you can savor the rich, aromatic flavors of freshly brewed Ceylon tea.
Day 5: Transfer to Yala National Park via the Elephant Transit Home
Say goodbye to Ella this morning as you continue your journey south on a two-hour transfer to Yala National Park, the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka. On the way, stop at the Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawe, a wildlife protection facility that cares for orphaned and injured elephants. Learn about the facility and its rehabilitation efforts, then meet the elephants and watch them eat, play in mud baths, and interact with their caregivers. Back in the car, complete the drive to your resort located just outside the national park.
Day 6: Morning Safari in Yala National Park, Free Afternoon
Wake up before dawn for a morning safari through Yala National Park. Early morning is an optimal time for wildlife viewing, as the cooler temperatures and gentle light make animals more active and visible. The early hours offer the best chance to spot elusive leopards as they conclude their nocturnal activities and retreat into the shade. Herds of elephants, spotted deer, and wild boar are also more likely to be seen as they forage for food before it gets too hot.
Don't forget the various bird species, including the vibrant Sri Lankan peacock and sharp-eyed eagles soaring above. After the safari, return to the resort and spend the rest of the day enjoying its amenities. Relax by the pool, go for a stroll through the garden, or book an Ayurvedic treatment, such as a full-body massage or acupuncture.
Day 7: Transfer to Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Trade one natural wonder for another as you transfer four hours to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its vast network of trails and untouched rainforest. On the drive, you'll witness a dramatic transformation in scenery, with the terrain shifting from dry, rugged landscapes to dense, tropical greenery. Pass through small villages and rolling hills, providing glimpses of local life and agricultural fields. When you arrive, check in at a secluded ecolodge nestled on the southwestern fringe of the reserve, and rest up for a big day of hiking tomorrow.
Day 8: Jungle Trek in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve
Spend your day trekking through the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, one of Sri Lanka's most significant biodiversity hotspots. It harbors around 60% of the country's endemic tree species and more than 50% of its endemic birds, so you're sure to see some exciting flora and fauna today. Follow your guide along dense, emerald-green forest trails, weaving through towering trees, thick undergrowth, and gurgling streams.
Listen for the sounds of chirping birds and try to track their source to species like the blue magpie or crimson-fronted barbet. As you walk, your guide will provide insights into the intricate ecological systems and conservation efforts that protect this UNESCO site. They'll also point out fascinating plant life, such as giant ferns and orchids. After the trek, return to the ecolodge to relax for the rest of the day.
Day 9: Transfer to Weligama, See the Stilt Fishermen
Today, you head to your final destination: Weligama, a coastal town in southern Sri Lanka that offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences. Get one last look at the dense emerald greenery of the rainforest as you start the two-hour transfer. As you drive along the coast, you'll see fishermen balanced on narrow stilts rising out of the ocean. They perch gracefully above the waters, patiently waiting to catch fish. This traditional fishing method is unique to Sri Lanka and has been practiced since antiquity along the southern coast.
Once in town, check into your hotel and enjoy some free time to explore on your own. If you want to unwind after the drive, head to Weligama Beach, a crescent-shaped beach known for its golden sands and calm, inviting waters. Go for a dip in the Indian Ocean, try to spot more stilt fishermen, and wait until sunset to watch the sky transform. When darkness falls, make your way to the town center to find a local restaurant for dinner—if you want to sample the day's catch, try a crab curry featuring fresh crabs.
Day 10: Guided Tour of Galle, Whale & Dolphin Watching Cruise
Your penultimate day in Sri Lanka takes you on a guided tour of Galle, a charming colonial town just 40 minutes west of Weligama. Start at the 16th-century Galle Dutch Fort to explore the labyrinth of streets within. Follow your guide past quaint boutiques, historic mosques, grand mansions, and museums reflecting a blend of Dutch, Portuguese, and British influences. Then, climb up to the fort's ramparts for panoramic views of the glittering ocean and surrounding cityscape. You'll also see the fort's colossal gates and clock tower, adding to its cultural allure.
Day 11: Transfer to Colombo, Depart
Your exploration of Sri Lanka comes to an end today. If you have time before your flight, explore more of Weligama on your own. Return to Weligama Beach or visit Unawatuna Beach for a change of pace. Or, start your day with a yoga class at one of the many local centers, helping you rejuvenate your mind and body before your flight. When it's time, return to the hotel, meet your driver, and transfer 2.5 hours to the airport in Colombo for your flight home. Safe travels!
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