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.
Step back in time as you explore Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Traverse the city to discover historic manmade reservoirs, monumental stupas built by great kings, and beautifully preserved ruins of ancient palaces and monasteries.
Pay your respects at the sacred Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which originated from a branch of the sacred bo tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Witness the ethereal charm of this ancient civilization before enjoying a relaxing evening.
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.
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.
Escape to a secluded heaven on the golden shores of Sri Lanka's south coast. Pristine beaches framed by swaying palm trees and kissed by warm azure blue ocean await you. Spend your day at absolute leisure, basking under the warm tropical sun or taking a dip in the ocean.
For those seeking adventure, the area is famous for exhilarating water sports. Alternatively, enjoy a serene boat ride down the tranquil Madu River, taking in the thriving wildlife inhabiting the shady mangroves and visiting tiny islands. Savour a delectable dinner by the coast.
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.