Sunshine Sri Lanka – 8 Days (SLBS8001)

Airport (Katunayaka) - Negombo

Arrival in Sri Lanka. You will be welcomed by your host and local guide to this magical island. Transferred directly to your hotel in Negombo. Evening you will be provided with a city tour and chance to shop at exotic vintage boutiques.

Overnight stay in Negombo– (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Negombo – Pinnawala – Sigiriya

After a delicious taste of tropical breakfast at the hotel, you will be on route to one of the most historically enriched cities of Sri Lanka – Sigiriya. On route, you will be offered the chance to take a chance to visit the Asia best elephant Sanctuary in Pinnawala.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

King Kashyapa was an adamant king, who quarrelled with his family and embarked on to build his fortress on top of Sigiriya Rock (477-495 AD). As the only rock amidst a flat open area, this was an ideal place for King Kashyapa to protect himself from any impending threat from enemies. Sigiriya aka ‘Fortress in the Sky, is UNESCO world heritage site due to the magnificent architectural wonders. Take a moment and enjoy the mirror wall, the famous drawing of ‘Sigiriya Landun (ladies)’, the lion gate and water gardens. Marvel at the ancient architecture and step up into the rock summit to experience the breathtaking view. Be sure to sit back and immerse at this moment, to cherish and capture the movement eternally in your heart.

Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

Pinnawala was established in 1975 in order to take care of a few baby elephants. Started with seven orphaned elephants, today Pinnawala is the sanctuary for more than 57 elephants some of who are rescued from dire situations.

Overnight stay in Dambulla (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Dambulla - Polonnaruwa

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at your hotel and get ready to explore one of the golden kingdoms of Sri Lanka. Known to be filled with majestic ruins – castles and temples- this sightseeing will enrich you to the strong cultural phenomenon in Asia. Then head over to see Sri Lanka's hope for the future in Minneriya National Park, where hindered of wild elephant babies roll around in the mud.

Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom

During 11th century AD, Polonnaruwa was discovered as a capital city (the Second Kingdom after Anuradhapura) y. this was the city of King Parakramabahu I’. Considered one of the most strategic rulers during the time, King Parakramabahu I’ invaded Myanmar, exported rice to other countries and made it be known as the ‘Golden age’.

Wild Safari by Jeep at Minneriya National Park

If you have watched Disney’s ‘ Monkey Kingdoms ‘ which was majority shot at Sri Lanka, you may find this landscape familiar. Minneriya is one true treasure for us Sri Lankans because of the huge number of species who have made it their home. With more than 300 wild elephants seen around the park, you will be directed towards the catchment area of the lake where elephants roam leisurely. This park is 8889 hectares in extent and can be entered from the main entrance in Habarana Polonnaruwa road. Apart from elephants, Minneriya Park is famous for numerous sightings even during the day for, wild boar, wild buffaloes, deer, leopards, crocodiles, numerous species of birds, sambur, Sloth bear, Jackals, reptiles and many even rare butterflies. Be sure to wear dark clothing, so you might not draw attention from dwellers of this majestic landscape.

Overnight stay in Dambulla (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Dambulla – Kandy

Wake up early in the morning to the sound of birds and get ready to see another magnificent kingdom capital of Sri Lanka. Known to carry its own charm, you will be taken to Kandy, the historical epitome of Sri Lankan Buddhists. Take the time to really see the blend of Sri Lankan and British architecture blended into the background.

Known to be a bustling city with a lake in middle, Kandy is an epitome of the both Sri Lankan and British empires. Considered as the last kingdom city, it is adorned with various traditional arts and crafts which you will discover during your tour. Be sure to enjoy our visit to the Woodcarving & Gem shop, Gem Museum, Kandy Bazar/markets and a visit to a Batik Factory while going through the upper lake drive.

Temple of Tooth Relic

Temple of Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa) is a sacred temple with the history backing down to 1687.

Head back from Temple to enjoy a cultural show combining the artists from both upcountry and low country traditions. If you try, you will be able to notice the subtle difference of hand movements in the artists, prone to their traditions.

Overnight stay in Kandy (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Kandy – Bentota

After a sumptuous breakfast at the hotel get ready to travel at leisure towards the Bentota, a coastal town famous for recreational water sports. Along the way take time to stop at Kadugannawa and marvel at the misty forests, enjoy a strong a cup of ginger tea to taste the island favour. Then slowly descend into the southern province.

Overnight stay in Bentota (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Bentota – Galle – Mirissa – Bentota

After breakfast pack up your day bag, grab a water bottle and head over to Galle. One of the ironically famous for its architecture containing the colonial times. In the fortress of Galle, you will be amused at the attention to details of the British and other European nationalities. Considered similar to the George Town, Malaysia – this is a UNESCO heritage site and the roads in Galle fort will remind you of some lazy Saturday evening where you stroll around and in hand.

After the leisurely stroll, head over to Mirissa – another sandy town where u will be enthralled by vast stretched beaches and the golden glow of sun dancing on blue waters. En-route you will be visiting Stilt Fisherman at Weligama Bay. This Fisherman is known to stay still for more than few hours’ time and fish perch on these poles. Capture an Instagram worthy moment, when the sun is setting in the horizon and the colours are perfect.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Bentota

Bentota is a coastal town in the Southern Province. With its name derived for a demon (Ben) who ruled the riverbanks (Tota), this bustling city will provide many opportunities for you to immerse in water sports or maybe even to take a dip in an Ayurveda treatment boat.

In the Evening you will be provided with a chance to roam around and relax around the resort to get a glimpse of the wonder. Maybe at the evening head over to the beach and enjoy the warmth of last sun rays of the day, while enjoying a truly Ceylonese cup of tea.

Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota (Standard or Premium Hotel Option)

Bentota – Colombo – Airport

After a good breakfast at the hotel, pack up your belongings, check for the last minute gift ideas around Colombo and head back home after a magical week in this island paradise. Head back to the airport for your departure flight.