Island Discovery: 10-Night Sri Lanka Adventure from North to South | 10 Nights and 11 Days Sri Lanka Package
- Transfer Included
- Stay Included
- Meals Included
- Sightseeing Included
Overview
Itinerary
Arrival in Jaffna & Local Introduction
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.
Jaffna to Ancient Anuradhapura
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.
Anuradhapura to Sigiriya & Dambulla
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.
Polonnaruwa Excursion & Cultural Evening in Kandy
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.
Kandy & Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
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.
Scenic Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya (Tea Country)
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.
Nuwara Eliya to Ella via Scenic Drives & Hikes
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.
Ella to Yala National Park — Jungle Safari
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.
Yala Safari & Transfer to Mirissa
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).
Beach Time & Whale Watching (Optional) — Galle Exploration
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.
Transfer to Colombo & Departure
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.
Inclusions
- 10 nights accommodation in 3★–4★ hotels or boutique properties (as per package tier)
- Daily breakfast and 5 dinners (as specified by the itinerary)
- All transfers and private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle
- Domestic flight or transfer to Jaffna (if selected in package)
- Entrance fees to listed sites (Sigiriya, Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Temple of the Tooth)
- 1 x Yala National Park jeep safari (shared or private option available)
- Scenic train tickets (Kandy to Nuwara Eliya sector) — standard class (upgrade available)
- English-speaking driver/guide throughout
- Local taxes and service charges
Note: Specific hotels and meal counts will be confirmed at booking.
Exclusions
- International airfare to/from Sri Lanka
- Visa fees (ETA) and travel insurance
- Meals not mentioned in inclusions and personal expenses (drinks, tips, laundry)
- Optional activities (whale-watching, Horton Plains early-morning hike, additional safaris)
- Peak-season supplements, holiday surcharges, and single-room supplements
- Any items not explicitly mentioned under inclusions
Important: Wildlife sightings and whale-watching are not guaranteed; activity times may change due to weather or park regulations.
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