Discovering Srilanka

Set off early in the morning for a trip to Sigiriya, including a visit to a pineapple plantation and the renowned Pinawella Elephant Orphanage, which was founded as a sanctuary. Visitors can observe and even help feed the young elephants from large bottles before they march down to the river for their daily bath. In the afternoon, explore the Sigiriya Fortress, once the royal residence of King Kassyappa (477-495 A.D). Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Sigiriya.

Experience the rural life around Sigiriya with a traditional bull cart ride, followed by a tour of Sigiriya city, the Pidurangalla Temple, and Pahalagama Lake. Later in the day, head to Mineriya National Park for a thrilling jeep safari. Return for dinner and an overnight stay at the hotel in Sigiriya.

After a morning elephant ride through the jungle, continue your journey to Kandy, stopping en route to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a batik factory, and a spice garden in Matale. Upon arrival in Kandy, explore the Temple of the Tooth and enjoy a traditional cultural dance performance in the evening. End the day with dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.

After breakfast, visit the Peradeniya Botanical Garden before heading to Nuwara Eliya. Known as one of the coolest regions on the island, Nuwara Eliya resembles an English spring day, with temperatures dropping at night. The town is full of British colonial influences, from country cottage-style homes to Queen Anne-style mansions. On the way, stop at the famous Ramboda Waterfall, a Sri Lankan tea plantation, and a functioning tea factory, where you can also participate in a hands-on tea plucking experience. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

After an early breakfast, embark on a journey to Horton Plains, Sri Lanka`s highest and most secluded plateau. Surrounded by the breathtaking scenery of cloud forests and vast grasslands, Horton Plains offers a paradise for nature enthusiasts, boasting rich biodiversity and panoramic views. Visitors are often captivated by the sight of various wildlife and bird species thriving in this pristine environment. Take a walk through the plains to reach the famous World`s End – a dramatic cliff with a sheer drop of 1,050 meters, offering stunning views of the hills below and a perfect photo opportunity. In the afternoon, return to your hotel and enjoy a leisurely stroll through the local market. Dinner and an overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

After breakfast, head to Sri Pada, also known as Adam`s Peak. This sacred site is revered in different ways: some believe it to be the place where Adam first set foot on Earth after being banished from heaven, while others consider it the `Sacred Footprint` left by Buddha as he ascended to paradise. The peak is also referred to as `Samanalakande` or Butterfly Mountain, due to the butterflies that are said to congregate there before they die. Regardless of the legend, the site has been a pilgrimage destination for over a thousand years.

The best time to visit Adam`s Peak is from January to May, as from May to October, the summit is often obscured by clouds. This climb is not for the faint-hearted, as it requires early rising, with many pilgrims starting their ascent at around 5 a.m. to catch the stunning views at sunrise.

After resting at your hotel, head to Kithulgala for an exciting white-water rafting adventure, while enjoying the scenic beauty of the journey and the surrounding landscapes. Kithulgala is famous for being the filming location of the iconic movie Bridge on the River Kwai. Today, it is a popular destination for white-water rafting enthusiasts. In the afternoon, return to your hotel in Hikkaduwa, marking the end of your tour.