Meet and assist on arrival at Airport by Aventara Travels Representative. Transfer from Airport to Negombo. Just seven kilometres from the Bandaranaike International Airport, at the tip of the Negombo lagoon, lays the pristine Negombo beach. Negombo is a famous fishing village that is proud of its colonial Dutch fort and other Dutch period architecture.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Negombo before retiring for the night to rest and recover from your flight.
Rising nearly 200 metres out of the lush green jungle, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is one of Sri Lanka's most dramatic and awe-inspiring historical sites. Built in the 5th century by King Kashyapa, this ancient citadel, often referred to as the 'Eighth Wonder of the World', showcases incredibly advanced ancient urban planning and engineering.
As you ascend the rock, you will encounter the famous frescoes of the 'Cloud Maidens', the highly polished Mirror Wall, and the imposing Lion Paws that guard the final staircase to the summit. The panoramic views from the top, overlooking the vast water gardens and surrounding forests, are truly breathtaking.
Surrounded by mountains and lush tea estates, Kandy is Sri Lanka's cultural capital and the last stronghold of the ancient Sinhalese kings. This UNESCO World Heritage site is famous worldwide for the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most venerable Buddhist temples in the world.
Visitors can enjoy leisurely walks around the picturesque Kandy Lake, explore the incredibly diverse Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, and witness the captivating rhythms of a traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance. Kandy's cool climate and rich heritage make it an unforgettable part of any itinerary.
Journey into the cool, refreshing mountain air and picturesque vistas of Nuwara Eliya, famously known as 'Little England'. En-route, feast your eyes on cascading waterfalls and emerald slopes carpeted with lush tea bushes.
Visit a sprawling tea estate and factory, where you will learn how the finest Ceylon tea in the world is plucked, processed, and packaged. Finish the tour with a freshly brewed cup of fragrant tea. In Nuwara Eliya, take a stroll along the banks of Lake Gregory or indulge in freshly picked strawberries at a local farm before enjoying a cozy evening in the highlands.
Experience the magic of the Sri Lankan highlands. Depending on your routing, you may experience one of the world's most scenic train rides winding through mountain valleys and dense pine forests.
Arrive in the laid-back town of Ella, a paradise for nature lovers. Hike up Little Adam's Peak for breathtaking panoramic views of the Ella Gap, and visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an architectural masterpiece hidden amidst the lush jungle and tea estates. Relax in the cool mountain climate and enjoy a peaceful evening.
Transfer to the deep south for a thrilling adventure. Spanning across 1,259 square kilometres, Yala National Park is the second largest nature reserve on the island and boasts one of the highest leopard densities in the world.
Embark on an early morning or late afternoon jeep safari to witness large herds of wild elephants, wild boars, buffaloes, deer, and crocodiles roaming freely in their natural habitats. Bird lovers will also enjoy spotting a magnificent array of exotic species. Return to your hotel or campsite for a delicious dinner under the stars.
Travel along the stunning southern coastline to the historic city of Galle. Wander around the UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Galle Dutch Fort, which was originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and extensively fortified by the Dutch.
Walk along its cobbled streets lined with carefully preserved colonial buildings, shop at chic little concept stores, and visit the Dutch Church and Museum to learn about the fortification's rich history. Enjoy the stunning views of the Indian Ocean from the iconic lighthouse before retiring for the evening.
Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel and spend the morning at your leisure, perhaps picking up some last-minute souvenirs or taking one final stroll along the beach.
Proceed to the Bandaranaike International Airport in time for your departure flight. Aventara Travels wishes you a safe flight back home, carrying unforgettable memories of your tropical island getaway.