Sri Lanka Discovery Tour
Ideal for first-time travellers from Australia who want to experience the very best of Sri Lanka from golden beaches and sacred temples to misty mountains and thrilling safaris.
Arrive at Colombo International Airport where your personal tour representative will greet you with a warm Sri Lankan welcome. Drive to Negombo, a laid-back coastal town known for its sandy stretches and vibrant fishing culture. Spend your afternoon unwinding by the beach or strolling through the town before resting for the night. Overnight stay in Negombo.
Depart for Dambulla where the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple awaits with its centuries-old murals and carved statues of the Buddha. As you climb through the rock caves immerse yourself in the history and artistry that earned the site UNESCO recognition. Continue your journey to Sigiriya and settle into your hotel surrounded by lush countryside. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Climb the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress in the cool morning hours where breathtaking views reward your ascent past ancient frescoes and gardens. Step into authentic village life with a traditional ox-cart ride followed by a home-cooked Sri Lankan lunch. End the day with the soothing option of an Ayurveda massage restoring both body and mind. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.
Journey towards Kandy pausing at a spice garden in Matale to discover the island’s renowned cinnamon pepper and cardamom. In Kandy visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. As evening falls watch a cultural dance show filled with rhythm and color and centuries-old traditions. Overnight stay in Kandy.
Board one of the most scenic train journeys in the world traveling from Kandy to Nanu Oya through emerald green tea plantations and misty mountains. Visit a working tea factory where the delicate process of plucking and brewing Ceylon tea comes alive. End the day exploring the colonial charm of Nuwara Eliya fondly called “Little England” for its quaint architecture and cool climate. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
Drive towards Ella along winding roads lined with waterfalls and tea gardens stopping at the picturesque Ramboda Falls for photographs. Upon arrival in Ella marvel at the iconic Nine Arches Bridge a feat of colonial engineering hidden within lush greenery. Conclude your day with a hike up Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic mountain views bathed in golden sunset light. Overnight stay in Ella.
Enjoy a slow-paced morning in Ella perhaps sipping tea with mountain views or taking a short stroll through the surrounding hills. By afternoon depart for Yala National Park a region famed for its wildlife and untamed landscapes. Settle into your lodge near the park surrounded by the sounds of the wild. Overnight stay near Yala.
Rise early for an exciting jeep safari in Yala where leopards stealthily roam, elephants graze and sloth bears laze in the shade. After your morning adventure continue south to the coastal town of Mirissa with its palm-fringed beaches. Spend the evening at leisure perhaps watching the sunset melt into the Indian Ocean. Overnight stay in Mirissa.
Spend a full day enjoying the golden sands and turquoise waters of Mirissa’s beach perfect for relaxation or light exploration. Between November and April you can embark on a whale-watching tour offering the chance to spot majestic blue whales and playful dolphins. The rest of the day is yours to relax by the waves or sip cocktails under the sun. Overnight stay in Mirissa.
Travel to the historic city of Galle and wander through its UNESCO-listed fort where cobbled streets meet Dutch colonial buildings and charming cafes. Take in sweeping views of the ocean from the fort’s ramparts and soak in the blend of history and coastal beauty. Conclude your journey in Colombo before transferring to the airport for your departure.
