Sri Lanka

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be warmly welcomed and assisted by our driver/guide. From there, you'll transfer directly to your hotel in Negombo, a charming coastal town close to the airport. Spend the evening relaxing and acclimating to your new surroundings.

Start your day with a visit to the Arankelle Monastery in the Kurunegala district. This serene site features one of Sri Lanka's finest monastic gardens, dating back to the 5th century AD. The lush environment, with its boulders and forest, creates a tranquil setting ideal for meditation. Following your visit, continue your journey to Anuradhapura.

Begin your exploration of Anuradhapura, the sacred city and first kingdom of Sri Lanka, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the Sacred Bo Tree, the oldest authenticated tree in the world, and explore nearby ancient sites. Discover the Ranmasu Uyana (Gold Fish Park), a royal pleasure garden from the 2nd century BC. Next, visit the Wessagiriya Monastery complex, a significant monastic garden with origins dating back to the 3rd century BC. In the afternoon, explore the Kaludiya Pokuna (Black Water Pond) Monastery Complex, a fascinating example of ancient monastic landscapes.

After breakfast, explore the Ritigala Monastery complex, situated on and around the Ritigala Mountain. This site, with its blend of natural and architectural elements, dates back to the 3rd century BC. Following your visit, transfer to your hotel in Habarana. Optional: Enjoy a 4WD game drive in Minneriya National Park in the afternoon.

Travel to Trincomalee, a renowned beach destination on Sri Lanka’s east coast. En route, stop to visit significant war sites from the civil conflict in the northern and eastern regions. Upon arrival in Trincomalee, settle into your beachside accommodation and relax.

Visit the remarkable Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site created by King Kassapa in the 5th century. Explore the intricate landscape designs, including the Water Garden, Boulder Garden, and Terrace Garden. In the evening, experience a traditional Sri Lankan village visit. Observe local farming practices, including chena cultivation, and enjoy a boat ride followed by a memorable village-style meal.

Travel to Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, visit a spice garden in Matale, known for its diverse spice cultivation. Continue to Kandy and in the evening, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a significant Buddhist site, and explore the Royal Palace complex.

Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, initially a pleasure garden for the Kandyan kings and later established as a botanical garden under British rule. The gardens feature over 4000 plant species, including Sri Lanka's first tea plant. Spend the rest of the day relaxing or exploring Kandy, and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan dance performance in the evening.

After breakfast, drive to Nuwara Eliya, situated in Sri Lanka's tea-growing hill country. Visit a tea factory and estate to learn about tea production. Nuwara Eliya, known for its British colonial architecture and floral gardens, offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s colonial past. In the afternoon, visit The Park in the city.

Enjoy a brief city tour of Nuwara Eliya, taking in its colonial buildings and vibrant gardens. Visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens, established in 1861 as a plantation for malaria antidote production, now home to a vast collection of high-elevation flora.

Transfer to Bentota, a renowned beach destination on Sri Lanka's southwest coast. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beautiful beach or enjoying the hotel's amenities.

Visit Lunuganga, the country residence and creation of acclaimed architect Geoffrey Bawa. This unique landscape garden, with its lush tropical plants and ever-changing vistas, offers a captivating experience. A brisk walk around the garden reveals its hidden surprises and design nuances.

In the morning, visit Brief Garden, created by Bevis Bawa, Geoffrey Bawa’s elder brother. This private garden reflects Bevis Bawa’s diverse talents as a planter, painter, and landscape gardener, showcasing his unique vision and creativity.

After breakfast, transfer to Colombo and check into your hotel. In the late afternoon, enjoy a city walk with Mark Forbes, an expert on Colombo's history and architecture, if available. Discover the vibrant culture and urban landscape of Sri Lanka’s commercial capital.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your departure. Reflect on your enriching journey through Sri Lanka as you head to your next destination.