Wake up to the soothing sounds of the Indian Ocean. After an early breakfast, take a trip to the renowned Negombo fish market near the fishing harbor, affectionately called ‘Walla’ by the locals. Watch fishermen working together, pulling their nets ashore, separating their catch, and learn about the traditional methods of drying fish.

Afterward, head to the Muthurajawela Wetland Visitor Center for a boat tour to explore the wetlands— a vast shallow lake with inlets and islands, rich in biodiversity. The mangrove community in the lagoon is recognized as the most diverse of all mangrove communities on the west coast of Sri Lanka. The area is abundant in bird life and is also home to monkeys, estuary crocodiles, and monitor lizards. The marsh and its wildlife can be experienced with a boat tour lasting 2-3 hours. Enjoy a fruit platter and maybe share some with the monkeys…

After breakfast, make your way to Habarana. On the journey from Negombo, notice the transition from bustling roads to flat terrain stretching for miles as the climate gradually warms up. Take in the captivating drive through the green paddy fields and observe how the weather becomes warmer as you enter the dry zone.

Check into your hotel.

In Habarana, you’ll experience the warm tropical weather, but nestled among the forest trees, this lodge will offer a shady, cool, and comfortable retreat, ensuring you feel refreshed.

In the evening, begin your exploration of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

” A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Marvel at the ancient rock paintings and the massive lion paw entrance as you ascend the 200-meter-high rock fortress. Explore the ruins of the 1,500-year-old castle built by King Kasyapa and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views and beautiful sunset of the surrounding landscape. “

After an early breakfast at the hotel, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa.

” The second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, known for its impressive archaeological treasures. As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it features the well-preserved ruins of the Royal Palace, intricately carved statues at Gal Vihara, and the sacred quadrangle with the Vatadage and Lankatilaka Temple. To fully appreciate the historical and architectural marvels, it’s best to leave early and enjoy the sites in the morning light. “

Enjoy a home cooked lunch in a local village house.

In the afternoon, safari in Minneriya national park. Depending on the season of movements of elephants, safari park would be either at Minneriya / Kaudulla or Eco Park.

” Minneriya Park is a national park in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. The park is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population. The park was declared as a wildlife sanctuary in order to protect the watershed of Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area. The tank is historically important for the country as it was built by King Mahasen in the 3rd century AD. ”

After breakfast, stop at the Dambulla Cave Temples on your route to Kandy.

” This UNESCO World Heritage Site features a series of stunning cave temples adorned with intricate murals and statues of Buddha, dating back to the 1st century BC. Explore these ancient caves and marvel at the impressive frescoes and sculptures that capture the rich history and religious significance of the area. “

During your journey through Matale, you’ll gradually ascend the hills and notice the transition from dry to wet climate, with denser vegetation. Observing the change from flat to terraced paddy fields. As you near Kandy, expect bustling streets, as it’s recognized as the capital of Sri Lanka’s hill country. The mountains surrounding Kandy are adorned with buildings and houses nestled among lush greenery at the base, while their upper slopes are veiled in mist and boast pine forests and grasslands.

Welcome to Kandy! The hill capital and the venerated grounds of the last royal capital of Sri Lanka.

In the evening, enjoy the cultural performance filled with drumming and dancing.

After breakfast, visit the Temple of the Tooth, or Dalada Maligawa.

” A UNESCO World Heritage Site located within the royal palace complex in Kandy. This revered temple houses the sacred relic of Lord Buddha’s tooth, a symbol of Sri Lanka’s deep spiritual heritage. Explore its richly decorated interiors, witness the daily rituals performed by monks, and immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites. “

Next, your chauffeur guide will lead you through Kandy’s old town, lake, and markets, showing you historic spots and sharing insights into the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Continue to the Royal Botanical Gardens for lunch.

” Located just outside Kandy, this is Sri Lanka’s largest and most impressive botanical garden, originally established in 1821. Covering 147 acres, it showcases over 4,000 species of plants, including towering palm avenues, vibrant orchids, and giant bamboo groves. The garden’s serene pathways and lush landscapes make it an ideal spot for a peaceful stroll amidst Sri Lanka’s rich flora. “

Return to hotel for a relaxing evening.

After breakfast, leave Kandy and begin your scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, ascending into Sri Lanka’s misty central highlands. As you climb higher, the landscape transforms—lush forests, cascading waterfalls, tea plantations, and terraced rice fields begin to appear, offering a complete contrast to the tropical lowlands you’re leaving behind. The air turns cooler, and the surroundings grow more serene.

Consider pausing at Ramboda Falls for a short walk (approximately 30 minutes round trip)—a chance to stretch your legs, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and enjoy some beautiful views.

By early afternoon, arrive in Nuwara Eliya and check in to a charming heritage hotel, a colonial-era property that feels like a step back in time. With its elegant architecture and nostalgic atmosphere, this retreat invites you to slow down and savour the moment.

In the evening, enjoy a classic high tea experience at the Grand Hotel, served either on the garden terrace or in the cozy lounge.

Walk-up for a relaxing day at the mountains.

After a leisurely breakfast, visit a tea estate and factory to see how Ceylon tea is made. Watch as women pluck tea leaves by hand on the mountain slopes, then follow the process of sorting, drying, and rolling the leaves before tasting the final product.

This visit offers a glimpse into daily life on a tea estate, where tradition and hard work come together to produce one of the world’s most famous teas. The scenery is stunning, but the work is tough, and the workers face many challenges. Still, the women picking tea often greet you with warm smiles—a quiet reflection of their strength and resilience.

Spend a restful afternoon at the hotel before heading out for an early evening stroll. Explore the quaint town centre, with its Tudor-style buildings, and wander along the shores of Lake Gregory—an ideal way to take in the charm of “Little England.” Your chauffeur will be on hand to guide you throughout.

After breakfast, depart for Nanu Oya railway station to catch the train to Ella. This is the most scenic section of Sri Lanka’s hill country railway, winding through rolling tea plantations, misty forests, waterfalls, and peaceful mountain villages.

Along the way, the train passes Pattipola, Sri Lanka’s highest railway station at 1,898 metres (6,227 feet) above sea level. From this high point, the journey gradually descends through spectacular hill country scenery. Originally built during the British colonial era to transport tea to Colombo, this historic railway remains one of the finest ways to experience the charm and natural beauty of the highlands.

Your chauffeur will drop you at the station and then drive to Ella with your luggage, so you can simply relax and enjoy the ride with a small day bag.

Tonight, you will stay at 98 Acres Resort & Spa, a beautiful eco-friendly hotel set on a working tea estate. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the resort offers stunning views of Ella Gap and Little Adam’s Peak. The spacious chalets are built with natural materials and blend perfectly into the landscape, creating a peaceful, rustic charm.

Wake up to the cool mountain air and get ready for a morning of scenic walks around Ella. After breakfast, you can explore some of the area’s most popular trails, guided by your chauffeur who will help you find the best routes and viewpoints.

Suggested walks:

• Nine Arch Bridge: 1.3 km | 40 min – 1 hr

• Nine Arch Bridge (via Ella road): 1.9 km | 40 min – 1 hr

• Little Adam’s Peak: 1.4 km | 40 min – 1 hr

• Little Adam’s Peak & Lookout: 2.7 km | 1 hr – 1.5 hrs

These gentle walks offer lovely views of the hills, tea plantations, and the iconic Nine Arch Bridge—perfect for photos and soaking up the peaceful surroundings.

Later in the day, begin your journey to Yala. On the way, stop at Buduruwagala, an ancient Buddhist site known for its remarkable rock carvings, believed to date back to the 9th or 10th century. The central figure is a tall standing Buddha, surrounded by smaller statues of Bodhisattvas and other deities, all carved into a cliff face. The site is quiet and surrounded by nature—offering a peaceful glimpse into Sri Lanka’s spiritual past

Arrive in Yala in the afternoon.

Arrive in Yala by the afternoon and check in to your safari lodge, Cinnamon Wild Yala, located on the edge of the national park. Spend a relaxing evening by the hotel pool, enjoying the tranquil setting and the sounds of the surrounding wilderness.

Spend a leisurely morning at your hotel, surrounded by nature. Listen to the calls of peacocks echoing through the trees, and if you’re lucky, you might spot a herd of wild boar—sometimes with their playful piglets. Take a gentle walk towards the nearby lake, where pelicans glide across the water and crocodiles can often be seen sunbathing along the rocks It’s a peaceful way to soak in the wild beauty of Yala before the day’s adventures begin.

Afternoon safari at Yala national park.

” Yala, spreading across 1268 sq. km of scrub forests, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, is undoubtedly one of the hottest regions of bio-diversity in the island boasting of an abundance of Sri Lankan Leopard, Elephants and Sloth Bear, often known as Sri Lanka’s Big Three! Flanked by herds of wild boar, spotted deer, jackals, peacock and crocodiles the park has a whole bundle of wilderness on offer. So, be prepared to witness the big-footed, the clawed and the spotted amidst the thick scrub forest as your safari jeep bumps away into the depths of wilderness.”

After breakfast, begin your journey to Galle. If you wish, make an optional stop at Dalawella Beach, a peaceful spot along the coast where Hawksbill turtles are known to visit, especially between November and April. These turtles have become familiar with people and sometimes linger near the shore throughout the day. Local vendors offer small bags of seaweed if you’d like to feed them—a gentle and memorable encounter with Sri Lanka’s marine life.

Check in to Jetwing Lighthouse, a beautifully designed hotel that blends modern comfort with colonial charm. Designed by Sri Lanka’s iconic architect Geoffrey Bawa, the hotel offers sweeping views of the Indian Ocean, spacious rooms, and a peaceful coastal setting just minutes from Galle Fort.

In the evening, embark on a tour of Galle;

“Once Sri Lanka’s chief port and known for its hand-made lace. Explore the Galle Fort, a World Heritage Site covering 90 acres, originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663. Stroll through the fortress, taking in its ancient architecture, ramparts, and the historic lighthouse, for an educational and enjoyable experience.”

Wake up to the sound of the ocean and enjoy a relaxed morning.

After breakfast, head to Galle Fort for a Sri Lankan cooking demonstration with Ms. Sanju. This immersive experience offers you the chance to learn about traditional Sri Lankan ingredients and cooking techniques. Under her guidance, you will prepare local dishes while enjoying the cultural ambiance of the historic Galle Fort. The session is interactive and provides valuable insights into Sri Lankan culinary traditions, making it a memorable part of your tour.

Spend a relaxing afternoon by the pool.

After breakfast, enjoy a relaxed morning at your own pace—your room has been reserved for an extended stay until 6:00 PM to ensure a comfortable departure.

Your chauffeur, who has been by your side throughout this journey—sharing stories, navigating the roads, and revealing the beauty and hidden corners of Sri Lanka—will accompany you to the airport for your onward flight.

Safe travels—and until we meet again.