COLOMBO - KANDY (BREAKFAST – LUNCH - DINNER)

After enjoying a delightful breakfast, the journey continues toward the beautiful city of Kandy. On the way, the first stop is the famous Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, a sanctuary that offers a loving home to abandoned and injured elephants. This heartwarming place is cherished by both locals and tourists for its compassionate care and unique atmosphere. It’s a haven where elephants of all ages, including playful calves, live in harmony and are nurtured under dedicated supervision. The orphanage also runs a successful captive breeding program, helping preserve the population of these majestic creatures. The most captivating moments here are during feeding and bathing times, when visitors can witness these gentle giants up close—splashing, playing, and interacting with their caretakers in a truly unforgettable sight.

After this enriching experience, the journey proceeds to Mawanella, where you will visit a traditional spice garden. Sri Lanka’s world-renowned spices—cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, nutmeg, and mace—fill the air with their exotic fragrance, creating an enchanting sensory experience. A walk through the garden offers a glimpse into the centuries- old tradition of spice cultivation and trade, which once drew European and Asian merchants to Sri Lanka’s ancient ports. Visitors also gain fascinating insights into how these aromatic spices are grown, harvested, and used for both culinary and medicinal purposes.

Following the visit, you will arrive in Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Upon reaching, check in at the hotel and take some time to relax after the journey. The day concludes with a delicious dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Kandy, surrounded by the charm and tranquillity of this historic city.

KANDY CITY TOUR (BREAKFAST – LUNCH – DINNER)

After enjoying a delicious breakfast, begin your day with a guided city tour of Kandy, the last royal capital of the Sinhalese kings and one of Sri Lanka’s most cherished cultural destinations. As you explore this historic city, you’ll witness its unique blend of natural beauty and heritage charm. Drive past the picturesque Upper Lake, which offers panoramic views of the city surrounded by lush greenery, and pass through the bustling Market Square, where the local life and vibrancy of Kandy come alive.

Your journey then takes you to one of the most sacred and revered Buddhist sites in Sri Lanka—the Temple of the Tooth Relic, also known as Dalada Maligawa. This magnificent temple, believed to house the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha, is not only a spiritual centre but also a symbol of Sri Lanka’s rich history and devotion. The temple’s intricate architecture, serene ambience, and deep spiritual significance make it a must-visit landmark for pilgrims and travellers alike.

After paying your respects, take a leisurely walk through the charming streets of Kandy, where you can indulge in some souvenir shopping. The town is a treasure trove for artisans and craftsmen, offering exquisite handmade creations in wood, copper, silver, brass, and bronze. You can also find beautiful works in ceramics, lacquer, handlooms, batik fabrics, and elegant jewellery pieces—each reflecting the artistic traditions of Sri Lanka.

Next, proceed to the world-renowned Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya, situated approximately 5.5 kilometres west of the city. Nestled near the scenic Mahaweli River, these gardens are a haven of natural splendour and tranquillity. Known for their spectacular collection of orchids, the gardens also feature over 4,000 species of plants, including rare tropical flora. It’s one of the most visited attractions in the country, drawing both locals and international travellers who come to admire its beauty and serenity.

Continue your exploration with a visit to the Gem Museum and Gem Gallery, where you can witness the art of gem cutting and polishing while learning about Sri Lanka’s long-standing legacy as one of the world’s leading sources of precious stones. The dazzling displays of sapphires, rubies, and other gems offer a glimpse into the island’s natural wealth and craftsmanship.

In the evening, round off your enriching day with a captivating Cultural Dance Show. Watch as performers bring to life centuries-old traditions through their vibrant costumes, rhythmic drumming, and graceful movements. The energy and color of the Kandyan dance will leave you spellbound, offering a beautiful insight into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

After this delightful experience, enjoy a hearty dinner and unwind at your hotel in Kandy, where you can relax and reflect on the day’s memorable experiences before retiring for the night.

KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA (BREAKFAST - LUNCH - DINNER)

After a delightful breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to the enchanting highlands of Sri Lanka, making your way to the charming city of Nuwara Eliya. The route takes you through breathtaking landscapes, where you will pause to admire the picturesque Ramboda Waterfalls—one of the most beautiful cascades in the region, surrounded by lush greenery and misty hills. En route, visit a traditional tea factory and plantation to witness the art of tea making, from the delicate plucking of tea leaves to the intricate process of drying and tasting. The aroma of freshly brewed Ceylon tea fills the air, offering a truly authentic experience of Sri Lanka’s most famous export.

Upon reaching Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England,” you’ll find yourself transported back in time. This old colonial outpost, perched 6,200 feet above sea level, still carries a distinctly British charm. The cool mountain climate, the neatly trimmed hedges, the charming cottages, and the elegant old buildings together create the atmosphere of an English countryside town frozen in time. The magnificent Grand Hotel stands as a proud reminder of the colonial era, its grandeur presiding over the tranquil surroundings. To complete the picture, the town even boasts a historic golf course and hosts horse racing events that hark back to its colonial past.

As evening descends, take a serene stroll to Gregory Lake—one of Nuwara Eliya’s most iconic landmarks. Originally constructed in 1873 under the direction of British Governor Sir William Gregory, the lake sits gracefully at the heart of the hill country, surrounded by rolling tea gardens and lush hills. Its calm waters reflect the beauty of the setting sun, creating a tranquil and romantic atmosphere. The Gregory Lake area is a popular spot for both locals and visitors to unwind, offering boating activities and scenic views that perfectly capture the essence of this idyllic town.

Continue your exploration with a visit to Victoria Park, a beautifully maintained public park located near the Nuwara Eliya Post Office. Once serving as the research field for the Hakgala Botanical Garden, this park was formally named in 1897 to commemorate Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee. Today, it remains a beloved spot for nature lovers, with colorful flower beds, neatly kept lawns, and an abundance of birds adding charm to the serene environment.

After a day filled with natural beauty and colonial elegance, check in to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya and unwind amidst the cool mountain air. Enjoy a delicious dinner before retiring for a peaceful overnight stay, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka’s hill country.

NUWARA ELIYA - BENTOTA (BREAKFAST – LUNCH - DINNER)

After enjoying a hearty breakfast in the morning, begin your journey towards the beautiful resort town of Bentota, travelling through the scenic route of Kithulgala. Along the way, take in the lush landscapes and serene surroundings that make this drive truly delightful. En route, visit the famous Seetha Amman Temple, a sacred site closely linked with the epic Ramayana. The temple’s impressive architecture immediately captures attention, with its intricate carvings, vibrant paintings, and detailed sculptures narrating the timeless story of Lord Rama and Goddess Sita. On one side of the temple, visitors can admire ancient statues of Rama and Sita, evoking a sense of devotion and reverence. Though the temple stands today as a modern structure, it beautifully preserves the spiritual essence and historical significance of the Ramayana era.

After the temple visit, continue your drive to Bentota, a charming coastal town known for its pristine beaches, calm lagoons, and luxurious resorts. Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and take some time to unwind after the day’s journey. You can relax by the pool, enjoy the peaceful surroundings, or simply rest in your comfortable room. As evening sets in, savour a delicious dinner at the hotel, reflecting on the day’s experiences. Spend a restful night in Bentota, preparing for the adventures that await in the days to come.

BENTOTA CITY TOUR (BREAKFAST – LUNCH - DINNER)

After breakfast, set out to explore the beautiful coastal city of Bentota, nestled along the southern shores of Sri Lanka. Known for its golden beaches, serene lagoons, and lush greenery, Bentota offers the perfect blend of relaxation and natural charm. The area is a haven for bird lovers, where you can often spot a variety of sea birds and waders, including the rare Indian heron. The vegetation along the Bentota River shelters many local bird species as well as migratory ones that visit during the winter months, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

As you continue your journey, enjoy a fascinating boat ride along the Madu River. This experience reveals the breathtaking biodiversity that defines the region. The river ecosystem is home to a wide variety of aquatic and land species—about eleven types of aquatic molluscs and fourteen terrestrial molluscs can be found within this habitat. You may also encounter around seventy species of fish, thirty-one types of reptiles, and fifty kinds of butterflies fluttering through the mangroves. The river’s surroundings are equally vibrant with life, hosting mammals, amphibians, and reptiles that thrive in the wetland environment. Bird watchers will find this trip especially rewarding, as the Madu River area is known to harbour around 111 species of birds, including several migratory varieties that stop here during their long seasonal journeys.

Another highlight of your Bentota excursion is the visit to the Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda, an inspiring conservation project dedicated to protecting Sri Lanka’s turtle population from extinction. Here, you will learn about the delicate process of nurturing turtle eggs until they hatch and the young hatchlings are safely released into the ocean. It’s a heartwarming experience that demonstrates the importance of preserving marine life and the dedicated efforts made to sustain the island’s ecological balance.

After the sightseeing tour, check in to your hotel and take some time to unwind and relax. The tranquil atmosphere of Bentota, with its rhythmic waves and gentle breezes, offers the perfect setting for rest after a day filled with exploration and discovery. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner featuring local and international delicacies, and then retire for a peaceful overnight stay in Bentota, surrounded by the natural beauty and serenity of Sri Lanka’s southern coast.

BENTOTA – COLOMBO - AIRPORT

After breakfast, proceed to Colombo. Once in Colombo, enjoy a Colombo city tour & shopping.

Sri Lanka’s former capital city, Colombo, is easily the largest metropolis in the country. It is still the commercial and entertainment hub with many corporate buildings, restaurants, shopping malls, spas, hotels and nightclubs. If you want to have an active urban nightlife and do a spot of shopping, then Colombo is your place. After the tour, get transferred to the Airport to take the flight to Kolkata

Upon arrival at Kolkata, proceed to complete all necessary immigration and customs formalities before exiting the airport. As you step back onto familiar ground, take a moment to reflect on the unforgettable memories and experiences gathered during the tour. Before bidding farewell, cherish the friendships and bonds formed with fellow travellers, who have been a part of this incredible journey. From shared laughter to exploring new destinations together, these connections make every trip special. As the journey comes to an end, we sincerely thank you for being a part of this wonderful experience. TRAVELIXA hopes to see you again on another exciting adventure soon. Until then, take care and keep exploring!