Meet your driver / guide who will greet you and assist with your transfer to your confirmed hotel in Negombo.

• 1 night deluxe room on half board basis at Jetwing Beach Hotel, Negombo.

Dambulla is a town located in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. One of the main attractions in Dambulla is the Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a complex of cave temples carved into a massive rock that dates back to the 1st century BC.

The Dambulla Cave Temple is renowned for its stunning collection of Buddhist murals, statues, and frescoes. The site consists of five caves, each adorned with intricate and vibrant paintings depicting various scenes from the life of Buddha. The caves also house numerous statues of Buddha in various poses, along with other deities.

In addition to the cave temple, Dambulla has other points of interest, and the surrounding area is known for its lush greenery and scenic landscapes. The town is a popular stop for tourists exploring the cultural and historical sites of Sri Lanka's central region.

Arrive at your hotel in Sigiriya in the afternoon and rest of the day free at leisure.

• 3 nights deluxe room on half board basis at Amaya Lake Hotel, Dambulla.

Anuradhapura is one of the ancient and sacred cities of Sri Lanka, located in the North Central Province of the country. It was the capital of the country for over a millennium and is renowned for its well-preserved ruins of ancient Sri Lankan civilization. Anuradhapura was established around the 4th century BCE and served as the centre of political and cultural life for many centuries.

Key attractions in Anuradhapura include:

1. Ruwanwelisaya: A stupa (dome-shaped structure) that is one of the world's tallest ancient monuments. It is an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists.

2. Sri Maha Bodhi: A sacred fig tree, believed to be the southern branch of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. It is one of the oldest living human-planted trees in the world.

3. Thuparamaya: Considered to be the first dagoba (stupa) built in Sri Lanka. It enshrines the collarbone relic of Buddha.

4. Jetavanaramaya: One of the largest stupas in the world, constructed by King Mahasena. It is an impressive structure with a height of over 120 meters.

5. Abhayagiri Monastery: An ancient Buddhist monastery complex that was a major center of learning and meditation.

6. Isurumuniya: A Buddhist temple known for its rock carvings, including the famous "Isurumuniya Lovers."

These historical and religious sites make Anuradhapura a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant destination for both pilgrims and tourists interested in Sri Lanka's rich cultural and historical heritage. The city is part of the "Cultural Triangle" of Sri Lanka, which also includes Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa, showcasing the country's ancient wonders.

Proceed to Sigiriya. Evening free at leisure or engage yourself in an Optional Activity such as Elephant Back Safari.

Polonnaruwa is another ancient city in Sri Lanka, located in the North Central Province. It succeeded Anuradhapura as the capital of the country in the 11th century and remained the capital for about two centuries. Like Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and its well-preserved archaeological ruins offer insight into the country's medieval history and culture.

Key attractions in Polonnaruwa include:

1. Parakramabahu's Royal Palace: The royal palace complex, which includes the king's palace, audience hall, and other structures.

2. Gal Vihara: A rock temple known for its impressive sculptures of Buddha, including a standing Buddha, a seated Buddha, and a reclining Buddha carved out of a single granite rock.

3. Polonnaruwa Vatadage: An ancient structure that once housed the tooth relic of Buddha, characterized by its circular design and intricate stone carvings.

4. Rankot Vihara: One of the largest stupas in Polonnaruwa, providing panoramic views of the surrounding area from its summit.

5. Kiri Vehera: A stupa built by King Parakramabahu, covered in white plaster, giving it a distinctive appearance.

6. Archaeological Museum: Located near the main archaeological site, the museum displays artifacts and provides information about the history of Polonnaruwa.

Polonnaruwa showcases a mix of Hindu and Buddhist influences, and the archaeological remains give visitors a glimpse into the architectural and artistic achievements of the medieval Sinhalese civilization. The city's historical significance and well-preserved structures make it a popular destination for tourists and history enthusiasts.

As the first rays of sunlight pierce through the horizon casting a warm and golden glow across the landscape, you find yourself standing at the entrance of Sigiriya, eager to explore this ancient rock fortress. The air is cool and filled with the sounds of nature awakening to a new day.

Climbing the Rock:

Mirror Wall and Frescoes:

Lion's Paw and Summit:

The Royal Palace and Gardens:

Descent:

A morning visit to Sigiriya not only offers a cooler and more serene experience but also provides a unique perspective on the historical and natural beauty of this iconic site.

After your visit to Sigiriya, your journey continues to Kandy, visiting Matale spice growing region for special insight to some unique Sri Lankan agriculture. First stop at a place to learn about the multitude of uses of this fascinating tree; see how the coconut is husked and its fibers used to make rope. Witness the collection of the sweet coconut water for a refreshing drink, the use of the coconut kernel for the extraction of coconut milk which forms the base for most Sri Lankan curries and the production of honey and sweet juggery from sap collected from the coconut flower.

Also visit traditional spice garden where we will learn about the unique uses of spices in Sri Lankan cuisine. Optionally - those who would like to may assist in the preparation of some of the local dishes which we will then sample during lunch served out doors using lotus leaves instead of plates.

Terminate at your hotel in Kandy.

Evening city tour of Kandy including upper lake drive, Market Square, Arts & Crafts Centre, Gem Museum and Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic or else you can do the city tour the next day.

Kandy - A lovely city, the Hill Capital and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings retains an aura of grandeur, which time has not affected. Encircled by hills, with a tranquil lake in its center, it is the site of the renowned "Temple of the Tooth" and the Royal Botanical gardens home to one of the best collections of Orchids. Kandy and its satellite villages is the centre of the islands handicraft industry and its traditional dances are the most spectacular in the country.

Also visit Tea Museum in Kandy.

Late Evening witness a Cultural dance performance in Kandy.

• 1 night deluxe room on half board basis at Amaya Hills, Kandy.

After breakfast, private road transfer to Nuwara Eliya, visiting Labookelle Tea Factory en route to witness the process of producing tea.

Nuwara Eliya is a beautiful hill station in Sri Lanka, known for its cool climate, scenic landscapes, and tea plantations.

In the afternoon, you will be taking a train from Nanu Oya Railway Station to Ella.

• 2 nights standard room on half board basis at Mountain Heavens Hotel, Ella.

Horton Plains, located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka, is a stunning plateau known for its unique ecosystem, rich biodiversity, and breathtaking landscapes. This National Park features World's End, a sheer cliff offering panoramic views, and Baker's Falls, a picturesque waterfall. The area, with its montane grasslands and cloud forests, is home to diverse wildlife, including endemic species. Popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts, Horton Plains provides a tranquil escape into the natural beauty of Sri Lanka.

Trekking to World's End and Baker's Falls is a captivating adventure through Sri Lanka's central highlands. The journey involves traversing scenic trails amidst montane grasslands and cloud forests. As hikers approach World's End, the landscape unfolds to reveal a breathtaking sheer cliff with views extending over 800 meters. Continuing the trek, visitors encounter the enchanting Baker's Falls, a picturesque waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. The combination of these natural wonders makes the trek an exhilarating exploration of biodiversity and stunning vistas in a tranquil and pristine setting.

En route you will be visiting Rawana Waterfalls.

Yala National Park, situated in the southeastern region of Sri Lanka, is renowned for its diverse ecosystems, including dense jungles, grasslands, and coastal areas, providing a haven for a wide array of wildlife, including the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

• 1 night Jungle chalet on half board basis at Cinamon Wild Lodge, Yala National Park.