Day 1
day 1 Arrive Colombo
Arrival at Colombo's Airport. You will be transferred to your hotel in Colombo. Rest of the day will be at leisure.
Day 2
day 2 Colombo
"Colombo" could refer to several things, but most commonly it refers to the capital city of Sri Lanka. With its vibrant mix of cultures, bustling streets, and historical landmarks, Colombo offers visitors a fascinating blend of old and new. Modern skyscrapers stand alongside colonial-era buildings, while bustling markets and street vendors offer a glimpse into everyday life. Shopping in Colombo is a vibrant and diverse experience, catering to a wide range of tastes and budgets. Whether you're looking for traditional handicrafts, trendy fashion, or unique souvenirs, you're sure to find something that catches your eye in Colombo.
Dinner & Overnight in Colombo
Day 3
day 3 Colombo - Anuradhapura
After breakfast transfer to Anuradhapura (4 1/2 hours drive approx.)
Check into the hotel and proceed with a city tour in Anuradhapura Ancient City.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the north central part of the Island was the first capital, the centre of the island's Buddhist civilization and undoubtedly the grandest city of ancient Sri Lanka.
In terms of its antiquity and cultural significance, Anuradhapura stood as one of the most remarkable cities of its era. At its core lies the Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest historically documented tree worldwide, propagated from the sacred Bodhi tree where the Buddha attained enlightenment. Additionally, the city is home to some of the island's oldest Buddhist shrines, with origins dating back to the 3rd century BC. Notable landmarks include impressive white 'dagabas' and monuments adorned with intricate stone carvings or sculptures, along with meticulously designed pleasure gardens, stone baths, and ponds. Anuradhapura's exceptional irrigation system, comprised of reservoirs and canals, further adds to its allure as a must-visit destination.
Dinner & Overnight in Anuradhapura
Day 4
day 4 Wilpattu National Park
In the early morning, after enjoying a packed breakfast, you will be transported to Wilpattu National Park, which is approximately a one-hour drive away. Upon arrival, you will embark on a thrilling Jeep Safari adventure.
Wilpattu National Park holds the distinction of being Sri Lanka’s largest national park, covering an expansive area of 130,000 hectares. It boasts the title of being the oldest national park in the country, having recently reopened after a period of closure due to armed conflict. Decades ago, Wilpattu rivaled Yala in its reputation for its impressive Leopard population.
One of the park's distinguishing features is its abundant natural lakes, known as "Villus," which are encircled by sandy rims. These Villus serve as vital water sources, particularly during droughts, and are magnets for wildlife, attracting a diverse array of species.
Dinner & Overnight in Anuradhapura
Day 5
day 5 Train Transfer from Anuradhapura to Jaffna
After enjoying breakfast, make your way to Anuradhapura Railway Station and hop onto a local train bound for Jaffna. Opting for train travel between Anuradhapura and Jaffna is not only safe but also offers a speedy and picturesque journey across the country. Covering a distance of 112 miles, the train ride provides a unique perspective of Sri Lanka's landscapes. The reintroduction of the Yal Devi Express in 2014 marked a significant milestone, bringing back the resonating sound of locomotives to Jaffna after a hiatus of a generation. Today, embarking on this three-and-a-half-hour journey from the historic Buddhist hub of Anuradhapura to Jaffna presents an opportunity to witness a diverse side of Sri Lanka.
Day 6
day 6 Jaffna Sighseeing
After breakfast transfer to Jaffna (4 hours' drive approx.) and proceed with sightseeing
Jaffna, situated in the northern part of Sri Lanka, is a city steeped in rich cultural heritage and history. It serves as the capital of the Northern Province and holds significant importance in the country's social, economic, and political landscape.
The city boasts an array of architectural marvels, including temples, churches, and forts, each bearing testament to its diverse cultural influences. Jaffna is also famous for its delectable cuisine, featuring a variety of unique dishes that reflect its cultural heritage.
In recent years, Jaffna has witnessed significant development. Overall, Jaffna stands as a testament to resilience, cultural richness, and the enduring spirit of its people, offering visitors a captivating blend of history, tradition, and natural beauty.
Day 7
day 7 Jaffna - Trincomalee
Following breakfast, you'll be transferred to
Trincomalee. Upon arrival, proceed to check-in at the hotel. The rest of the day will be at your leisure, allowing you the freedom to spend it as you please.
Day 8
day 8 Trincomalee at Leisure Or Optional Visit to Pigeon Island
After breakfast leisure at the hotel.
Optional - Embark on a journey to Pigeon Island, a gem on Sri Lanka's east coast, renowned for its stunning natural beauty both on land and underwater. With its rich biodiversity, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, it's a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike.
Dinner & Overnight in Trincomalee
Day 9
day 9 Trincomalee- Negombo
After breakfast, we will drive to Negombo, with a stop en route to visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. Constructed by King Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C., this temple is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as one of Sri Lanka's most remarkable cave temples. Housing a complex of five caves adorned with over 2000 square meters of painted walls and ceilings, it boasts the largest collection of paintings found in any cave temple worldwide. Among the temple's treasures are over 150 Buddha images, including a colossal granite figure spanning 14 meters in length, making it a truly awe-inspiring sight.
Dinner & Overnight in Negombo
Day 10
day 10 Departure
Following breakfast, proceed with the departure transfer to the airport.
