Experience the magic of the “Sacred Island” on our Enchanted Sri Lanka Expedition, where we unravel the hidden treasures and vibrant culture of this extraordinary destination. Over 14 days, journey through ancient cities, lush rainforests, and pristine beaches, encountering endemic wildlife, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and indigenous tribes along the way.
Day 01 - Arrive Negombo
The tour starts this afternoon at the hotel in Negombo, the closest coastal town to Colombo Airport.
- Overnight Stay at Negombo.
Day 02 - Negombo – Wilpattu
After breakfast this morning we depart Negombo and drive north to Wilpattu National Park, the largest national park in Sri Lanka, stopping en route at a Kaffir Village.
- Overnight Stay at Anuradhapura.
Day 03 - Anuradhapura – Dambulla
We will explore the widespread site which includes the first temple to be built in the island, the largest stupa on the island and the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree – which was planted from a sapling taken from the original tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Overnight Stay at Sigiriya.
Day 04 - Dambulla - Sigiriya, Village Trail & Arboretum
Accessed by way of a steep staircase, from its lofty heights the 360 degree views out across the lush landscapes are truly spectacular. This afternoon we learn more about rural life on a village walk, followed by tea and snacks provided by a welcoming family in their home.
- Overnight Stay at Sigiriya.
Day 05 - Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Mahiyanganaya
An early start today sees us heading for the UNESCO setting of Polonnaruwa, the country’s old medieval capital. The ruins of the ancient city lie on the eastern shores of Topa Wewa Lake and a chance to explore it by bicycle provides a unique insight into its once great past.
- Overnight Stay at Mahiyanganaya
Day 06 - Magiyanganaya – Dambana – Knuckles
This morning, we head to Dambana village – home to the last remaining indigenous tribe in Sri Lanka. There, we will spend some time with the local Vedda chief, learning more about the traditions and history of Sri Lanka’s indigenous people and enjoying a walk around the village and surrounding area.
- Overnight Stay at Knuckles
Day 07 - Knuckles: Hiking
We will spend the day hiking through the picturesque landscapes of Knuckles Forest Reserve. Beginning in the remote village of Pitawala, we will be able to observe day to day life, visit the village temple and enjoy a cup of tea and snacks in a local house.
- Overnight Stay at Knuckles
Day 08 - Knuckles – Kandy
This morning sees us setting off for the nearby city of Kandy, the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings, and one of the country’s cultural and spiritual gems.
- Overnight Stay at Kandy.
Day 09 - Kandy – Nuwara Eliya
We will leave Kandy this morning to visit a village that specializes in the production of traditional drums.
- Overnight Stay at Nuwara Eliya.
Day 10 - Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains – Belihuloya
Leaving early, we’ll head next for the misty grasslands of Horton Plains National Park, Sri Lanka’s highest and most isolated plateau.
- Overnight Stay at Belihuloya
Day 11 - Belihuloya – Udawalawe
We will arrive at the hotel for lunchtime, and then have some leisure time before departing on our afternoon game drive in Udawalawe National Park. The park is home to approximately 500 Asian elephants and is famous for the ability to view these large roaming herds throughout the year.
- Overnight Stay at Udawalawe
Day 12 - Udawalawe – Ahangama
Its primary objective is to rehabilitate orphaned and sick elephant calves for ultimate release back into the wild. The view of the feeding time is at a safe distance behind a barrier where you can watch the elephants ambling along behind a keeper, into the compound where they will be fed milk through plastic hoses with funnels attached.
- Overnight Stay at Ahangama.
Day 13 - Ahangama - Galle – Ahangama
A free morning provides an opportunity to relax around the hotel or join an optional boat trip to enjoy the deep waters off the coast, and a chance the observe local sea life. This can be organized locally and will be dependent on numbers.
- Overnight Stay at Ahangama
Day 14 - Ahangama – Colombo
Driving back along the coast to Colombo this morning, we will arrive in the Sri Lankan capital mid-morning where the tour officially ends. Those on the suggested group flights will be transferred directly to Colombo Airport.
Tour Highlights
- Explore Wilpattu National Park, the largest national park in Sri Lanka known for its leopard population and diverse wildlife
- Visit the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with significant archaeological and architectural wonders
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a 5th century palace built atop a massive rock with stunning views
- Discover the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa and explore the ancient ruins by bicycle
- Interact with the indigenous Vedda people in Dambana village and learn about their traditional way of life
- Trek through the picturesque landscapes of Knuckles Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Explore the cultural and spiritual city of Kandy, home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Visit Horton Plains National Park, a misty plateau known for its unique flora and fauna
- Go on a game drive in Udawalawe National Park, famous for its large herds of Asian elephants
- Tour the historic city of Galle with its Dutch-influenced architecture and the iconic Galle Fort
Place will stay
Earl's Red Colombo
Earls Rajarata
Palmyra Nature Resort Sigiriya
New Rest House Inn
Kandy City Hotel by Earl's
Earl's Red Colombo
Mount Seven Holiday Inn
Kottawatta Village
