Sri Lanka

2024-01-28

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Sri Lanka Round Trip Itinerary

Sri Lanka: A Journey Through Paradise

Embark on an unforgettable journey across the resplendent island of Sri Lanka, a land brimming with diverse cultures, rich history, and breathtaking landscapes. Your adventure begins in the bustling city of Colombo, where colonial charm meets urban vibrancy. Explore the historical buildings, colorful markets, and indulge in the delicious local cuisine. Continue to the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, an awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in mythology and history. Climb to the summit for panoramic views of the majestic countryside.

Next, find solace in the serene city of Kandy, a sacred Buddhist site. Visit the renowned Temple of the Tooth and stroll around the tranquil Kandy Lake. Moving on, the cool climes of Nuwara Eliya welcome you with open arms, reminiscent of the British colonial era with its tea plantations and charming bungalows. A scenic train ride then takes you through the rolling hills to Ella, a hiker's paradise offering stunning vistas and an easygoing lifestyle.

Switching gears, get ready for an exhilarating safari in Yala National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts hoping to spot leopards, elephants, and a plethora of bird species. Then, wind down on the golden shores of Mirissa, a tropical retreat ideal for whale watching and soaking in the sun. Not far away lies the historic city of Galle, with its fortified old town and maritime charm. Lastly, before concluding your Sri Lankan escapade, relax in the coastal town of Bentota, indulging in water sports or unwinding on its beautiful beaches. Your trip ends in Negombo, a captivating city with a rich fishing heritage, just before you bid farewell to the island's enchanting embrace.

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1
Colombo
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As the commercial capital and the largest city of Sri Lanka, Colombo is a blend of old and new, with colonial buildings and modern skyscrapers, bustling markets, and tranquil religious sites. It is the gateway to the rest of Sri Lanka with a variety of cultural experiences, shopping opportunities, and a tantalizing food scene.
2
Sigiriya
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Sigiriya, or 'Lion Rock', is a significant archaeological site that showcases the remarkable ancient urban planning, water engineering, horticulture and arts of ancient Ceylon. The site is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 meters high which holds a palace complex at its peak, believed to be the work of King Kashyapa (477-495 CE). It offers panoramic views and impressive frescoes similar to the Ajanta Caves of India.
3
Kandy
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Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, is set on a plateau surrounded by mountains. It's known for its scenic beauty, rich history, and the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world. Kandy's traditional dance, music, and arts are well-preserved and can be experienced during the annual Esala Perahera festival.
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Nuwara Eliya
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Known as 'Little England', Nuwara Eliya offers a cool climate, mist-covered mountains, and lush tea plantations. With its colonial-era bungalows, well-kept gardens, and Tudor-style hotels, it provides a glimpse into the life of the British colonial settlers. It's a great place for leisure walks, horse riding, boating, and exploring the natural beauty of the hill country.
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Ella
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Ella is a small town in the Badulla District, popular for its verdant landscapes, hills covered with cloud forests, and tea plantations. The area has a rich bio-diversity, filled with numerous hiking trails, including the well-known Ella Rock and Little Adam's Peak. The picturesque Demodara Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls are also located nearby, making it a nature lover's paradise.
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Yala National Park
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Yala National Park is one of Sri Lanka's most famous wildlife destinations. It boasts a variety of ecosystems ranging from moist monsoon forests to freshwater and marine wetlands. It's home to leopards, elephants, crocodiles, and an array of bird life. Going on a safari here offers visitors the chance to glimpse the diverse wildlife and experience the natural beauty of the island.
7
Mirissa
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Mirissa is a small town on the south coast of Sri Lanka known for its beautiful beaches, relaxed atmosphere, and excellent whale and dolphin watching opportunities. The area is also popular for surfing, snorkeling, and enjoying fresh seafood. Mirissa's sunsets and sunrises are particularly enchanting, making it an ideal spot for photographers and anyone looking to unwind by the ocean.
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Galle
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Galle is a city steeped in history with a remarkable blend of European architectural styles and South Asian traditions. Its main attraction is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, showcasing Dutch colonial buildings, ancient mosques, churches, and the iconic lighthouse. The fort's walls offer a scenic walk overlooking the Indian Ocean, and its streets are filled with chic shops, cafes, and museums.
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Bentota
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Bentota is known for its broad golden beaches which are among the finest along the south coast, making it a popular resort town. It's an excellent destination for watersports such as jet-skiing, windsurfing, and parasailing. Bentota also offers river safaris along the Bentota River, where visitors can explore mangrove forests and observe local wildlife.
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Negombo
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Negombo is a major city located on the west coast of Sri Lanka, near the Bandaranaike International Airport, making it a convenient first or last stop in the country. This city is known for its long sandy beaches, centuries-old fishing industry, and the old-world charm of its colonial-era buildings. Negombo's lagoon offers scenic boat tours, and the local fish market provides a look into the area's vibrant seafood culture.

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Stay Recommendations

The Kandy House
The Kandy House
This is a restored manor house that infuses Kandy's rich history with boutique luxury. A stay here offers an intimate experience of the island's colonial heritage.
Heritance Kandalama
Heritance Kandalama
Designed by the renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, this hotel seamlessly blends into the surrounding landscape and offers stunning vistas of the Sigiriya rock fortress.
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Wild Coast Tented Lodge
Adjacent to Yala National Park, this luxurious tented camp mimics the boulders scattered across the nearby beaches and offers an immersive wildlife experience.
Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge
Madulkelle Tea and Eco Lodge
Situated in the Knuckles Mountain Range, this lodge offers tented accommodation with majestic views over tea plantations, ideal for eco-tourists.
98 Acres Resort
98 Acres Resort
Set amongst the scenic landscapes of Ella, these uniquely designed chalets offer unrivaled views of the famous Little Adam's Peak and the lush tea valleys.
Cape Weligama
Cape Weligama
Perched on cliffs rising above the Indian Ocean, Cape Weligama's luxurious villas and suites offer a truly exclusive coastal escape in southern Sri Lanka.