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Begin your journey with an overnight flight to Colombo. Upon arrival around lunchtime, transfer to the four-star Arie Lagoon Hotel. Take the rest of the day to relax and acclimate to the tropical surroundings, preparing for the adventures ahead.

Today marks the start of your Sri Lankan journey as you travel through stunning countryside dotted with paddy fields, water buffalos, coconut groves, and working elephants. Visit the remarkable 1st-century Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO site featuring five granite caves adorned with vibrant frescoes and over 150 Buddhist statues. Feel the peaceful atmosphere before settling in for two nights at the four-star Habarana Village Hotel.

This morning, visit Sigiriya, known as ‘Lion Rock,’ a towering 600ft granite fortress topped with the ruins of a 1,500-year-old royal palace. Surrounded by moats and water gardens, the site features stunning murals of ‘cloud maidens’—jewelled women carrying lilies. The palace entrance was once guarded by a giant lion’s head; now only its massive paws remain. After exploring, enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel.

This morning, leave Sigiriya for Kandy, stopping en route at a spice garden to see pepper, nutmeg, and cinnamon plants. Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s royal capital, and check into the four-star Cinnamon Citadel Hotel overlooking the Mahaweli River. Enjoy dinner and relax at the hotel, which features a pool, charming bar, and scenic forest surroundings.

Explore bustling Kandy with its lively streets and a beautiful lake at its center. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, housing a relic of Buddha, and possibly witness a traditional ceremony. Then stroll through the expansive Royal Botanical Gardens, home to thousands of tropical plants, exotic birds, Royal Palms, fruit bats, and historic sites like Lord Mountbatten’s WWII HQ.

Leave Kandy and travel to Nuwara Eliya, passing through stunning mountainous scenery and Sri Lanka’s famous tea-growing regions. The landscape transforms from tropical jungle to pine forests, then to vast green tea plantations stretching to the horizon. Arrive early afternoon in Nuwara Eliya, known as ‘Little England’ for its cool climate and parks. Stay overnight at the four-star Golden Ridge Hotel or The Grand Hotel.

Leaving Sri Lanka’s hill country, you travel south to the Elephant Transit Home at Udawalawe National Park, supported by the UK’s Born Free Foundation, where you can watch young elephant orphans being fed. You’ll stay two nights at the three-star superior Chaayra Resort and Spa Hotel, conveniently located near Tissamaharama and Kataragama.

Start early with the sounds of a tropical dawn as you embark on a thrilling 4×4 safari through Yala National Park. Known for its high leopard population, Yala offers excellent chances to spot these elusive cats along with elephants, crocodiles, sloth bears, and diverse birdlife. After a late breakfast, relax by the pool or opt for an evening safari (extra cost) to continue your wildlife adventure.

After breakfast, travel to the west coast and explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a striking 16th-century Dutch fortress rich in history. Later, arrive at the five-star Anantara Kalutara Resort, a stylish hotel blending modern comforts with local traditions. Set on a narrow peninsula where the Kalu Ganga River meets the Indian Ocean, it offers stunning 360-degree views of both lagoon and sea.

Enjoy a full day at leisure to relax and soak up the sun on Sri Lanka’s beautiful southwest coast. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool, explore the nearby beaches, or visit local shops and cafes, this free day gives you time to recharge and enjoy the tranquil surroundings at your own pace.

After a memorable journey through Sri Lanka’s rich culture, landscapes, and wildlife, it’s time to say farewell. Transfer to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of ancient temples, vibrant cities, scenic highlands, and tropical shores.