Depart the coast and journey inland toward Sigiriya. As you travel, the landscape transforms into expansive flatlands dotted with coconut plantations and lush paddy fields—offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rural heartland.

Check into Kuwera Eco Lodge, a tranquil retreat tucked away in a quiet village just minutes from Sigiriya Rock. Designed with sustainability in mind, the lodge blends natural materials with modern comfort. Rooms are simple yet stylish, service is warm and personal, and meals often feature produce from the lodge’s own organic garden. It’s a peaceful, well-located base for exploring the Cultural Triangle.

In the late afternoon, climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion Rock. Rising 200 metres above the surrounding plains, this dramatic column of rock was transformed into a royal citadel in the 5th century by King Kasyapa. As you ascend, you’ll pass ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the remnants of the lion’s paws carved into the rock face. At the summit, the ruins of the royal palace and sweeping 360° views await—made even more magical by the golden light of sunset.

Today is a welcome break from long drives, giving you time to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Start your day early with a peaceful sunrise boat ride on Talakote Wewa, a serene reservoir surrounded by lush greenery and local birdlife. As the sun rises, watch Sigiriya and Pidurangala Rocks from a distance while listening to morning bird calls and the gentle lapping of water against your boat. If you’re lucky, you may even pick some beautiful lotus flowers floating nearby. It’s a calm, refreshing way to connect with nature and soak in the beauty of the area at daybreak.

In the evening, head to Pidurangala Rock for sunset. This site was once used as a forest monastery and still holds a calm, peaceful vibe. The 30-minute hike is moderately challenging, with stone steps winding past an ancient temple, boulders, and caves. At the top, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the surrounding plains—especially Sigiriya Rock, glowing golden as the sun sets. It’s one of Sri Lanka’s most stunning sunset spots and well worth the climb.

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

The second ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa dates back over 1,000 years, flourishing from the 11th to the 13th centuries AD. It is renowned 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 these historical and architectural marvels, it’s best to arrive early and explore the sites in the soft morning light.

Enjoy a home-cooked lunch in a local village house, offering an authentic taste of Sri Lankan hospitality.

In the afternoon, embark on a safari in Minneriya National Park. Depending on the season and elephant movements, your safari may take place in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or the Eco Park.

Minneriya is famous for its ‘Elephant Gathering’, a spectacular natural event during the dry season when hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya Tank. They gather here because the tank is one of the few reliable water sources during the dry months, typically from June to September. As the water level recedes, fresh young grass grows along the banks, providing rich grazing for the elephants. This combination of water and fresh food attracts large herds, making it one of the best times to witness this incredible gathering.

Besides elephants, Minneriya is home to a diverse array of wildlife. You might spot water buffalo, sambar deer, spotted deer, wild boar, and toque macaque monkeys. The park is also a birdwatcher’s paradise, with species such as painted storks, Indian peafowl, and various water birds. Crocodiles can often be seen basking near the water’s edge. This rich diversity makes the safari experience much more than just about elephants.

After breakfast, check out and begin your journey toward Kandy, stopping en route to explore the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple.

This UNESCO World Heritage Site, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, is over 2,000 years old, with origins dating back to the 1st century BCE. Carved into a vast rock outcrop, the complex includes five cave sanctuaries filled with beautifully preserved murals and more than 150 statues of the Buddha, along with figures of kings and gods. The largest of the caves houses a 14-metre-long reclining Buddha. Perched on a hill, the temple also offers panoramic views of the dry plains below.

Continuing south, the landscape begins to transform. The flat, dry terrain of the Cultural Triangle gradually gives way to rolling hills, spice plantations, and misty forest patches. As you ascend into the central highlands, the air turns cooler and the surroundings greener—an inviting contrast that signals your arrival in Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.

Upon reaching the city, check in at Hanthana House, a boutique homestay nestled in the foothills of the Hanthana mountain range. Set in a quiet, green setting just outside the city centre, the property offers a small selection of thoughtfully designed rooms, home-style Sri Lankan cuisine, and a relaxed, intimate atmosphere—perfect for unwinding and connecting with the natural beauty of the highlands.

In the evening, visit Sri Dalada Maligawa, widely known as the Temple of the Tooth, one of the most revered Buddhist sites in the world. Located within the historic Royal Palace Complex of Kandy, the temple houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. The temple’s striking Kandyan architecture, gold accents, and elaborate shrine rooms reflect its deep cultural and spiritual significance. Visiting during the evening puja (ceremonial offering) allows you to witness traditional drumming, devotional rituals, and the serene reverence that surrounds this living place of worship.

Start your day with a guided nature walk through the Udawatta Kele Sanctuary, a historic forest reserve tucked behind the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Once part of the royal gardens of the Kandyan kings, this lush sanctuary dates back centuries and was once reserved exclusively for the royal family. Today, it is a peaceful refuge rich in biodiversity.

As you walk, your guide will point out native plant species, towering lianas, and medicinal herbs that have been used in traditional healing for generations. The sanctuary is also home to a wide range of birdlife—including Layard’s parakeets, brown-capped babblers, and forest-dwelling kingfishers—as well as troops of toque macaques and giant squirrels. It’s a refreshing way to begin the day and to connect with Kandy’s natural and cultural heritage.

Return to your accommodation for a restful afternoon, with time to relax on the verandah, read a book, or simply enjoy the serene surroundings of the Hanthana foothills.

In the evening, take part in an interactive cooking demonstration at your homestay. Learn the secrets of preparing an authentic Sri Lankan meal using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and traditional spices. You’ll gain hands-on experience in crafting dishes such as fragrant rice, spicy curries, and sambols—then sit down to enjoy the delicious results in a warm, home-style setting.

After an early breakfast, depart Kandy and begin the drive to Nuwara Eliya, a charming highland town known as “Little England” for its colonial-era bungalows, neat gardens, and cool climate. As you travel deeper into the central hills, the landscape changes dramatically—lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls accompany you along the winding roads.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, there may be time for a brief look around or a warming cup of Ceylon tea before continuing to Nanu Oya Railway Station to catch the train to Haputale.

This stretch of railway is considered one of the most scenic in Sri Lanka, offering breathtaking views of tea estates, cloud forests, and deep valleys. As the train glides along the mountain ridges, you’ll witness a side of Sri Lanka best experienced slowly—through the window of a highland train.

Arrive in Haputale and transfer to Vantage Hills, a cosy and quiet hotel perched above the surrounding countryside. With panoramic views of the southern plains and a fresh mountain breeze, Vantage Hills offers simple comforts, spacious rooms, and a peaceful ambiance—an ideal place to relax and take in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

Enjoy a restful evening at the hotel, soaking up the calm surroundings.

Today is dedicated to exploring the beautiful highlands around Haputale on foot. You’ll be joined by Dusha, a knowledgeable and friendly local trekker who knows these hills inside out.

Several excellent trekking options are available from Haputale, and we’ll plan and select the most suitable trail together when designing your itinerary, based on your interests, fitness level, and the time of year.

Some of the most popular options include:

• The Pekoe Trail – Stage 13: Haputale to St. Catherine
  Starting right in Haputale, this route takes you through rolling tea fields, eucalyptus groves, and peaceful villages. The trail ends in St. Catherine, where a return transfer will be arranged.

• The Pekoe Trail – Stage 12: Udaweriya to Haputale
  This more remote route begins at Udaweriya and ascends back toward Haputale through mist-covered landscapes and tea estate paths. Transport to the trailhead is included.

• Lipton’s Seat Hike
  Hike to one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic viewpoints via the scenic Dambatenne Tea Estate, either starting on foot from your hotel or opting to drive up and walk back down.

• Bambarakanda Falls Trail
  Combine a light trek with a visit to Sri Lanka’s tallest waterfall. A vehicle will take you to the trail area, where forest paths, panoramic viewpoints, and natural beauty await. Return transfer is included.

A picnic lunch will be packed for you to enjoy along the trail—perhaps at a scenic viewpoint, beside a waterfall, or in the shade of a tea bush. It’s a great way to pause, take in the landscape, and refuel during your adventure.

After your walk, return to the hotel for a relaxing evening in the cool mountain air.

After breakfast, begin your journey from the misty hills of Haputale down to the dry zone plains of Lunugamwehera. Along the way, enjoy a stop in the lively hill town of Ella—a popular travellers’ hub surrounded by dramatic peaks and tea plantations. Stretch your legs, browse a few local shops, and grab a good coffee before continuing your drive.

A little further on, pause to explore the Buduruwagala rock statues, a fascinating yet often-overlooked site. Dating back to the 9th–10th century, these serene figures are carved into a towering rock face, with the central Buddha statue standing over 15 metres tall—one of the tallest ancient Buddha carvings in Sri Lanka. The peaceful forested setting adds to the sense of mystery and reverence.

n the afternoon, arrive at Tranquil Wild, a peaceful retreat situated near Lunugamwehera National Park. Nestled between the forest and the shores of Ranawaranawa Lake, the lodge blends seamlessly into its natural surroundings. With only a small number of thoughtfully designed rooms, it offers a quiet and intimate setting ideal for slowing down and reconnecting with nature. The property is designed to enhance the sense of seclusion, with open spaces, natural materials, and views of the surrounding wilderness creating an atmosphere of calm and stillness.

In the evening, take a leisurely boat ride on Ranawaranawa Lake, which borders the property. This peaceful lake is a haven for birdlife—it’s common to spot kingfishers, cormorants, herons, and even eagles gliding overhead. Along the way, you may also observe local fishermen practicing traditional methods, such as laying nets and rhythmically beating the water with a pole to guide fish into their traps—a timeless ritual of life in these quiet rural parts. As the sun sets behind the distant hills, the lake mirrors rich golden tones, offering a serene and memorable end to your day.

After several days of travel and exploration, today begins with a slow and restful morning. Spend time unwinding by the hotel’s pool or in the garden, listening to the sounds of the forest and enjoying the stillness of your surroundings. Whether with a book in hand or simply soaking in the landscape, this is a chance to pause and take in the beauty of Sri Lanka’s southeastern wilds at your own pace.

In the late afternoon, set out on a safari drive in Lunugamwehera National Park. Often overshadowed by its famous neighbour Yala, Lunugamwehera offers a more tranquil and intimate wildlife experience, with fewer vehicles and a stronger sense of solitude. The park forms part of an important elephant corridor and is home to elephants, sloth bears, mugger crocodiles, sambar deer, wild boar, and a variety of bird species including crested serpent eagles, storks, and bee-eaters. The mix of dry forest, scrubland, and reservoirs creates ideal conditions for both wildlife viewing and peaceful exploration.

As the day winds down, return to the lodge for an evening bonfire and BBQ dinner under the stars. Surrounded by nature and warmed by the fire, it’s the perfect setting to reflect on your time in the wild and share stories of the day’s sightings.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in the calm surroundings of Lunugamwehera before setting off on a scenic drive toward the southern coast. Your destination is Ranna, a quiet coastal stretch known for its wide, uncrowded beaches, swaying palms, and laid-back atmosphere. Far from the busier resort towns, Ranna offers a slower, more tranquil seaside experience—perfect for rest and reflection.

Check in at Seven Turtles, a relaxed and stylish beachfront hotel named after the sea turtles that nest along this coastline. The property blends contemporary comfort with a natural aesthetic, featuring spacious rooms, ocean views, and open-air common areas designed to catch the breeze. With direct beach access, a pool, and a peaceful garden, it’s an ideal place to unwind after your inland adventures.

The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your own pace—relax by the pool, stroll along the sand, or simply let the rhythm of the waves lull you into a well-earned sense of calm.

Spend a restful morning by the beach or pool, soaking in the coastal calm of Ranna. This is a perfect opportunity to take it slow—read a book, enjoy a fresh coconut, or stroll along the shoreline as the waves roll in.

In the late afternoon, take a boat ride through the Kalametiya Lagoon, one of the oldest and most important coastal wetland ecosystems in Sri Lanka. The lagoon and its surrounding mangroves and salt marshes are a haven for birdlife, especially during the golden light hours. This is a prime time for birdwatching, when species such as black-headed ibis, purple heron, Indian pond heron, Brahminy kite, kingfishers, bee-eaters, and many species of waders and waterfowl are most active. The serene glide through calm waters, framed by mangroves and backed by the call of birds, makes for a peaceful, immersive experience in nature.

In the evening, you have the option to visit Rekawa Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s most important turtle nesting sites. **Rekawa is best visited on darker nights—particularly between January and April—**when green turtles, and occasionally loggerhead, olive ridley, hawksbill, and leatherback turtles, come ashore to lay their eggs. The guided experience usually begins after 8:30 PM and can last several hours, depending on the turtles’ activity that night.

After a relaxed morning at the beach, begin your journey along the picturesque southern coastline toward Galle Fort, one of Sri Lanka’s most captivating historical towns.

Check in at 50 Church Street, a tasteful private villa nestled in the heart of the fort. Set within a restored colonial residence, the property offers understated elegance and a peaceful atmosphere, just steps away from the area’s key attractions. The villa features spacious, airy rooms with antique furnishings and a quiet courtyard that invites rest and reflection. While it doesn’t have its own restaurant, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore the Fort’s many cafés and dining spots—including the nearby Church Street Social, known for its stylish setting and contemporary Sri Lankan cuisine.

In the evening, discover Galle Fort on foot. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a beautifully preserved colonial enclave originally built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century. It served as a major port and strategic stronghold for European powers in the Indian Ocean. Today, its sturdy ramparts and bastions remain remarkably intact, sheltering a unique blend of European and South Asian architecture. Narrow cobbled lanes wind between Dutch-era villas, boutiques, churches, and cafés. Wander through the charming streets, stroll along the ramparts overlooking the Indian Ocean, and soak in the timeless atmosphere of a place where centuries of history still whisper from every corner.

Enjoy a slow evening in the golden light, perhaps with a sundowner on the ramparts or dinner at one of the Fort’s many characterful restaurants.

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.