On arrival at Colombo airport, receive assistance and transfer to Kandy, passing through lush landscapes and picturesque countryside. En-route, visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you’ll witness the largest gathering of tamed elephants in the world. Observe the elephants during feeding times and watch them enjoy their bath in the river, providing a unique insight into their daily lives. Check in at the hotel in Kandy and settle in. Explore Kandy, starting with a visit to Kandy Viewpoint for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the surrounding hills. Take a leisurely walk around Kandy Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by lush greenery and offering a tranquil setting. Discover the Gem Museum and Gem Shop, where you can learn about Sri Lanka’s renowned gemstones and view a collection of precious stones and exquisite jewelry. Attend the Kandyan Cultural Show, which features traditional Sri Lankan dance, music, and drumming that showcase the vibrant cultural heritage of the Kandyan kingdom. Conclude your day with a visit to The Temple of the Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred temple houses a revered relic of the Buddha and is renowned for its ornate architecture, historical significance, and religious ceremonies. O/n at the hotel.

After an early breakfast, embark on a drive to Sigiriya, home to the impressive Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient frescoes, sophisticated water gardens, and an imposing rock summit offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. En-route, stop at a spice/herbal garden to explore various herbs and spices grown in Sri Lanka. Learn about their traditional uses in cooking and medicine, and enjoy a guided tour that provides insights into the island’s spice industry. In the afternoon, embark on a wildlife jeep safari at Minneriya National Park, famous for its large herds of wild elephants. The park also hosts a variety of other wildlife, including water buffalo, deer, and numerous bird species, set against a backdrop of scenic landscapes. Return to Kandy for an overnight stay at the hotel, reflecting on a day filled with cultural and wildlife experiences.

After breakfast, drive to the South Coast, with a stop at the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya. Explore the expansive gardens, which feature a diverse collection of plants, including orchids, palms, and giant bamboo, as well as beautiful landscaped areas and historical features. Visit the Ceylon Tea Trail, including a tea factory and tea garden, where you’ll learn about the tea production process, from picking and processing the leaves to packaging. Enjoy a tour of the tea center and sample some of Sri Lanka’s famous teas. Arrive at the South Coast and check in at the hotel. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the palm-fringed, snow-white sandy beaches of the South Coast. The pristine beaches offer a perfect setting for sunbathing, swimming, and unwinding in a tropical paradise. Enjoy free time to explore the local area, indulge in beachside activities, or simply relax and soak in the serene environment. O/n at the hotel.

Early in the morning, head out for a whale-watching tour in Mirissa. This excursion provides an opportunity to see majestic blue whales, sperm whales, and playful dolphins in their natural habitat. The tour offers an exhilarating experience and fantastic photo opportunities. After the whale-watching tour, embark on a boat trip to Turtle Beach and witness traditional stilt fishermen in Unawatuna. Observe this unique fishing technique, where fishermen stand on wooden stilts planted in shallow waters. Explore the southern coast of Sri Lanka with a visit to the Sea Turtle Conservation Project, where you’ll learn about the conservation efforts to protect sea turtles and see hatchlings and nesting sites. Relax at Unawatuna Beach, known for its golden sands and vibrant atmosphere. Take a guided walking tour of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring colonial-era architecture, historic buildings, and stunning views of the ocean from the fort’s ramparts. O/n at the hotel.

After breakfast, enjoy a scenic train ride along the south and west coasts of Sri Lanka. The train journey offers picturesque views of the coastline, lush greenery, and charming rural landscapes. En-route, take a boat tour at Madu Estuary, a Ramsar Wetland known for its mangrove forests and rich biodiversity. Explore the mangrove lagoon and visit Cinnamon Island to learn about traditional cinnamon production and its historical significance to local trade. Continue your journey to Colombo, where you’ll transfer to the airport for your onward flight, concluding a memorable tour filled with historical exploration, wildlife encounters, and beach relaxation.