Sri Lanka Ancient Kingdoms & Leopard Safari Heritage
Trip Overview
Discover the ultimate Sri Lanka holiday package that seamlessly combines ancient wonders with wild adventures across 11 unforgettable days. This meticulously crafted Sri Lanka tour takes you deep into the island's soul, from the legendary rock fortresses of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa to the leopard-rich jungles of Yala National Park. Experience the spiritual grandeur of the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, wander through emerald tea plantations in Nuwara Eliya, and explore the charming colonial architecture of Galle Fort. Perfect for history enthusiasts, wildlife lovers, and cultural explorers, this package offers authentic village experiences, traditional dance performances, and encounters with gentle giants at elephant sanctuaries. Witness breathtaking sunrises from ancient monuments, track elusive leopards on thrilling safaris, and relax on pristine southern beaches. With carefully selected accommodations, expert guides, and a perfect balance of adventure and leisure, this Sri Lanka holiday package promises memories that will last a lifetime.
Embark on an extraordinary 11-day journey through Sri Lanka's legendary Cultural Triangle and pristine wilderness. Explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites including Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla Cave Temples, witness majestic leopards in Yala National Park, discover colonial Galle Fort, and unwind on golden beaches. This comprehensive package blends ancient history, thrilling wildlife encounters, authentic cultural experiences, and coastal relaxation, offering the perfect introduction to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean's diverse treasures.
Day-wise Itinerary
11 Days PlanArrival in Colombo & Transfer to Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you'll be greeted by your tour representative and transferred to Negombo, a charming coastal town just 20 minutes away. After checking into your beachfront hotel, enjoy leisure time exploring the vibrant fish market, Dutch canal, or simply relaxing by the Indian Ocean. Evening at leisure to recover from your journey and prepare for the adventures ahead.
Activities
- Airport meet and greet with traditional welcome
- Transfer to Negombo beachfront hotel
- Optional visit to Negombo Fish Market
- Sunset stroll along Negombo Beach
- Welcome dinner featuring Sri Lankan cuisine
Journey to Sigiriya via Dambulla Cave Temples
After breakfast, depart for Sigiriya, the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. En route, visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring five caves adorned with stunning Buddha statues and ancient frescoes dating back over 2,000 years. Marvel at the 150+ Buddha images and intricate ceiling paintings. Continue to Sigiriya and check into your resort. Evening visit to a local village for an authentic bullock cart ride and traditional cooking demonstration.
Activities
- Guided tour of Dambulla Cave Temple complex
- Traditional Sri Lankan lunch at local restaurant
- Check-in at Sigiriya resort with pool
- Village tour with bullock cart ride
- Cooking demonstration and dinner with local family
Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Minneriya Elephant Safari
Rise early for the highlight of your Cultural Triangle experience – climbing the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Ascend 1,200 steps to the summit, passing ancient frescoes and the Mirror Wall, to reach the ruins of King Kasyapa's 5th-century palace. The panoramic views are breathtaking. After lunch and rest, embark on an afternoon jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for 'The Gathering' – where hundreds of elephants congregate around the reservoir during dry season.
Activities
- Early morning climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Photography at Lion's Gate and ancient frescoes
- Return to hotel for lunch and relaxation
- Afternoon jeep safari in Minneriya National Park
- Elephant watching and wildlife photography
Polonnaruwa Ancient City Exploration
Today explore Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka's medieval capital and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cycle or drive through this archaeological wonderland, discovering remarkably preserved ruins including the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara's magnificent rock-cut Buddha statues, and the beautiful Parakrama Samudra reservoir. Your expert guide brings history to life as you wander through temples, monasteries, and royal bathing pools. Return to Sigiriya for a relaxing evening by the pool.
Activities
- Guided cycling or vehicle tour of Polonnaruwa ruins
- Visit to Gal Vihara rock-cut Buddha statues
- Exploration of Royal Palace and Audience Hall
- Photography at Parakrama Samudra reservoir
- Traditional Sri Lankan dinner at resort
Kandy Cultural Capital & Temple of the Tooth
Journey to Kandy, Sri Lanka's spiritual heart nestled among misty hills. En route, visit a spice garden in Matale to learn about Ceylon's famous spices. In Kandy, tour the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, Buddhism's most important shrine housing a tooth of Lord Buddha. Stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake and explore the vibrant local market. Evening witness a mesmerizing traditional Kandyan dance performance featuring fire walking and acrobatic displays.
Activities
- Visit to Matale Spice Garden with herbal demonstration
- Guided tour of Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Scenic walk around Kandy Lake
- Exploration of Kandy city market
- Traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance
Scenic Train to Nuwara Eliya Tea Country
Experience one of the world's most scenic train journeys from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya through emerald tea plantations, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. This unforgettable ride showcases Sri Lanka's hill country at its finest. Upon arrival in 'Little England,' visit a working tea plantation and factory to learn the art of Ceylon tea production from leaf to cup. Enjoy a fresh tea tasting session. Evening explore the charming colonial town with its Tudor-style buildings and cool climate.
Activities
- Scenic train journey through tea country (3-4 hours)
- Visit to Pedro Tea Estate and factory
- Tea plucking experience and tasting session
- Tour of Nuwara Eliya town and Gregory Lake
- Dinner at colonial-style hotel
Horton Plains & World's End Trek
Early morning departure for Horton Plains National Park, a stunning cloud forest plateau. Trek through this UNESCO World Heritage Site to World's End, a dramatic 870-meter cliff offering spectacular views across southern Sri Lanka. Continue to Baker's Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by pristine wilderness. Keep watch for endemic species like the purple-faced langur. After the trek, drive to Ella, stopping at Ravana Falls. Evening at leisure in this laid-back hill station.
Activities
- Early morning trek to World's End viewpoint
- Hike to Baker's Falls through cloud forest
- Wildlife spotting in Horton Plains
- Visit to Ravana Falls en route to Ella
- Sunset views from Ella town
Ella Adventures & Transfer to Yala
Morning visit to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a colonial-era railway viaduct set among lush jungle – perfect for photography as trains pass through. Optional hike to Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views. After lunch, journey to Yala, Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destination. En route, stop at Buduruwagala to see ancient rock-carved Buddha statues. Check into your safari lodge near Yala National Park and prepare for tomorrow's exciting leopard safari.
Activities
- Visit to Nine Arch Bridge with train photography
- Optional hike to Little Adam's Peak
- Stop at Buduruwagala ancient rock temple
- Transfer to Yala safari lodge
- Evening wildlife briefing and dinner
Full Day Yala National Park Leopard Safari
Experience the thrill of tracking leopards in Yala National Park, which boasts one of the world's highest leopard densities. Your expert tracker-guide leads you on morning and afternoon game drives through diverse ecosystems – dry monsoon forests, grasslands, lagoons, and beaches. Spot elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and over 200 bird species. Yala's Block 1 offers the best leopard sighting opportunities. Return to the lodge between safaris for lunch and relaxation.
Activities
- Early morning jeep safari in Yala National Park
- Leopard tracking with expert wildlife guide
- Return to lodge for lunch and rest
- Afternoon game drive focusing on different zones
- Wildlife photography and bird watching
Galle Fort Heritage & Beach Relaxation
After breakfast, journey to the southern coast and the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing Dutch colonial architecture. Walk along the ramparts with ocean views, explore charming boutiques, art galleries, and cafes within the fort walls. Visit the lighthouse, Dutch Reformed Church, and Maritime Museum. Later, transfer to your beach resort in Bentota or Hikkaduwa. Afternoon free to swim, sunbathe, or try water sports. Farewell dinner by the beach.
Activities
- Guided walking tour of Galle Fort
- Visit to Maritime Museum and lighthouse
- Shopping in fort's boutique stores
- Transfer to beach resort
- Beach activities and farewell dinner
Leisure Morning & Departure from Colombo
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and final hours at the beach. Depending on your flight time, you may have opportunity for a morning swim or spa treatment. Check out and transfer to Colombo for your departure flight. If time permits, brief city tour of Colombo including Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Square, or Pettah Market. Your unforgettable Sri Lankan adventure concludes with airport drop-off and fond memories of ancient kingdoms, wild leopards, and tropical paradise.
Activities
- Leisure morning at beach resort
- Check-out and transfer to Colombo
- Optional Colombo city highlights tour (time permitting)
- Last-minute shopping for souvenirs
- Airport drop-off with assistance
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