Arrive in Jaffna (via domestic flight or drive). Settle into your hotel and enjoy an orientation walk around the town. Visit Jaffna Fort, the vibrant local market, and the ancient Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil. Evening at leisure to sample Jaffna’s unique Tamil cuisine.

Tip: If arriving early, consider a short trip to Keerimalai Mineral Springs for a refreshing dip.

Drive south to the ancient city of Anuradhapura (approx. 5–6 hours). Explore the sacred Buddhist ruins including Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, and the many dagobas and monastic complexes. Evening stroll around the well-preserved archaeological zone.

Note: Wear modest clothing for temple visits and carry water for the day.

Travel to the Cultural Triangle to visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress — climb (or partially climb) the famous lion rock for panoramic views. In the afternoon, visit the Dambulla Cave Temples, known for their ancient murals and Buddha statues.

Activity option: Traditional village safari or lodge-based jeep ride in Habarana.

Morning drive to Polonnaruwa (UNESCO) to admire the royal city ruins and Gal Vihara rock carvings. After lunch transfer to Kandy. Evening at Kandy includes the Temple of the Tooth ceremony (subject to schedule) and a traditional cultural dance performance.

Tip: Book Temple of the Tooth tickets in advance during peak season.

Spend a relaxed day in Kandy. Visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, enjoy a lake-side walk, and browse the local markets for handicrafts and Ceylon tea. Optional visits include a spice garden or a tea factory en route to the hill country.

Special note: Kandy’s altitude is cooler—pack a light jacket for evenings.

Board one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic train rides from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (tickets recommended in advance). Pass through rolling tea plantations, waterfalls, and misty hill stations. On arrival, explore Nuwara Eliya (often called “Little England”) — visit a tea estate and enjoy colonial-era charm.

Tip: Window seats on the left side from Kandy give excellent views; keep your camera ready.

Morning at leisure in Nuwara Eliya — visit Gregory Lake or Horton Plains National Park (optional early morning hike to World's End). Transfer to Ella by road or short train segment. In Ella, visit Nine Arches Bridge and hike to Little Adam’s Peak for spectacular valley views.

Note: Paths can be uneven—wear comfortable walking shoes.

Drive south toward Yala National Park (Tissamaharama). Check into a lodge near the park and prepare for an afternoon or early-evening jeep safari in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and a host of bird species.

Important: Morning and late-afternoon safaris offer the best wildlife sightings.

Optional early morning safari (highly recommended) followed by a scenic drive to the southern coast to Mirissa. Relax on the beach, enjoy seafood, or opt for an evening stroll in Galle’s old fort (if time permits).

Tip: Arrange whale-watching in advance during November–April (seasonal).

Full-day at leisure: choose between a whale-watching boat trip (seasonal), surf lessons, or exploring Galle Fort — a UNESCO World Heritage site with ramparts, boutique shops and cafes. Sunset on the fort walls or a relaxed beach dinner in Mirissa.

Note: Whale-watching is weather- and season-dependent; refunds or rescheduling policies vary by operator.

Drive to Colombo for last-minute shopping or a quick city tour depending on your flight time: visit Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, or the Dutch Hospital for souvenirs and dining. Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.

Tip: Allow at least 4–5 hours for transfer and airport check-in from Mirissa to Colombo for international flights.