Discover the essence of Sri Lanka on this 9-night adventure, weaving together some of the island’s most enchanting highlights. Wander through the serene Ironwood Forest, climb the mystical Pidurangala Rock, and step into slow village life during the Hiriwadunna and Wedda experiences, where traditional crafts, ancient rituals, and warm hospitality bring the country’s heritage to life.

Chase the mist of hidden waterfalls, journey through emerald hills on a scenic mountain railway, and glide above the treetops on the Ella zipline. Your adventure ends in the untamed beauty of Yala National Park, where a 4×4 safari brings you face-to-face with Sri Lanka’s wild heart.

For those wishing to linger a little longer, the tour can be extended to 11 or 13 nights with an additional 2 or 4 nights in Beruwala, offering a peaceful, sunlit finale by the sea.

Your itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Habarana

Day 2: Habarana ⇄ Ironwood Forest - Pidurangala 

Day 3: Habarana → Hiriwadunna → Wedda Village → Mahiyangaya

Day 4: Mahiyangaya ⇄ Rathna Ella 

Day 5: Mahiyangaya → Nanu Oya → Haputale 

Day 6: Haputale → Ella → Tissamaharama

Day 7: Tissamaharama → Yala National Park → Galle → Beruwalla 

Days 8 & 9: Baruwalla 

Day 10: Departure  

Please note: your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.

Upon arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative at the arrivals area. After completing airport formalities, you’ll enjoy a comfortable transfer to your hotel in Habarana. Check in and unwind, then spend the rest of the day at your own pace, perhaps taking a gentle stroll around the hotel grounds or simply relaxing and soaking in the serene surroundings.

• Transfer airport-hotel included. 
• Check in available after 2 pm. 
• Dinner inclueded. 
• Overnight stay at Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar. 

DAY 2: HABARANA  ⇄ IRONWOOD FOREST - PIDURANGALA 

Today you'll visit the Ironwood Tree (Mesua ferrea), or Na in Sinhala, Sri Lanka’s national tree, revered for its deep ties to Buddhism. Namal Uyana, a 260-acre replanted ironwood forest, invites you to wander along winding paths beneath a dense canopy where sunlight filters through in golden patches. Next, head to Pidurangala Rock, an often-overlooked gem near Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Climb to the summit for breathtaking views and a glimpse into its rich ancient heritage.

• Breakfast included.
• Start the day with a visit to Ironwood Forest (approx. travel time 45 minutes to 1 hour)
• Continue to Pidurangala  (approx. travel time 45 minutes to 1 hour)
• Return to the hotel in the evening.
• Dinner inclueded. 
• Overnight stay at Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar. 

Please noter that visit to Pidurangala Rock is not suitable for guests with walking difficulties or vertigo.

DAY 3: HABARANA → HIRIWADUNNA → WEDDA VILLAGE → MAHIYANGANAYA

Travel to Mahiyanganaya, stopping en route at Hiriwadunna Village for an authentic glimpse of rural life. Enjoy a traditional village lunch, take a bullock cart or tractor ride, and glide along the waterways on a catamaran safari. Upon arrival in Mahiyanganaya, check in to your hotel and unwind before heading out to the Dambana Wedda Village. Meet the indigenous "people of the forest", and discover their fascinating way of life, honed over centuries in harmony with the surrounding forest.

Set off on a scenic trek to Rathna Ella, winding through lush landscapes and passing the spectacular Kaluwa Watuna Ella, often called the local Niagara Falls. Pause to savour refreshing drinks as you take in the cascading waters and the serene surroundings. Arrive at Rathna Ella and cool off with a refreshing dip beneath the falls. Complete the experience with a mouthwatering village-style lunch at a local Sri Lankan restaurant, followed by a hands-on pottery and reed-weaving demonstration, where you can witness traditional crafts brought to life.

• Breakfast included. 
• Embark on an 8km Rathna Ella Trek (approx. 6 hours).
• Lunch at a local Sri Lankan Restaurant. 
• After the trek, return to your hotel for dinner. 
• Overnight stay at Mapakada Village or similar.

Please note that this trek is not recommended for clients with mobility difficulties. Kindly ensure to wear suitable shoes and clothing for this excursion.

DAY 5: MAHIYANGANAYA → NANU OYA → HAPUTALE

Travel to Nanu Oya to catch the scenic train to Haputale. Upon arrival at Nanu Oya station, board the train and enjoy the picturesque journey through rolling hills and tea plantations. Disembark at Haputale, where your chauffeur-guide will be waiting to escort you to your hotel for check-in and a relaxing stay.

• Breakfast included. 
• Transfer to Nanu Train Station and board the train to Haputale (1st and 2nd class tickets will be reserved, subject to availability). 
• Once in Haputale, transfer to your hotel. 
• Dinner included. 
• Overnight stay at Dream Cliff Mountain Resort. 

DAY 6: HAPUTALE → ELLA → TISSAMAHARAMA

Ella is a gem of Sri Lanka, famed for its breathtaking vistas and lush landscapes. Just 8 km from Bandarawela, this charming town is a hub for trekking adventures. Step into the Garden of the Grand Ella Motel, and you’ll feel as if you’re standing at the edge of the world, with the valleys unfolding beneath your feet.

Upon arrival, hike Little Adam’s Peak and then head to Ravana Adventure Park for the thrilling Flying Ravana mega zipline, Sri Lanka’s first, offering a bird’s-eye view of the surrounding hills. Continue to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, a marvel amidst the hills, before experiencing the raw power and beauty of Ravana Falls up close.

• Breakfast included. 
• Check out of the hotel and transfer to Ella (approx. travel time  30-45 minutes). 
• Upon arrival, proceed to Little Adam’s Peak for a hike.
• Visit Ravana Adventure Park to experience the Mega Zip line.
• Continue to the Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls.
• In the evening, transfer to Tissamaharama and check in to the hotel (approx. travel time 1.5-2 hours).
• Dinner included. 
• Overnight stay at Chaarya Resort or similar.

Start your day with an early morning wildlife safari at Yala National Park, with a packed breakfast ready at the hotel. Wander through the park in search of its famous residents: elephants roaming in herds, spotted deer grazing freely, playful monkeys in the treetops, and the occasional wild buffalo or boar. Keep your eyes peeled for the elusive leopard lounging by a waterhole, while peacocks, storks, kingfishers, and other colourful birds fill the skies and forests.

After this thrilling encounter with nature, travel to Beruwala for a relaxing beach stay. En route, stop in Galle, a historic coastal town where the Dutch influence is still visible. Explore the Old Dutch Fort, stroll through charming streets, and admire heritage sites like the Groote Kerk and Dutch Government House. Galle’s Unawatuna Bay offers a safe and scenic spot to unwind, while local artisans continue traditional crafts such as pillow-lace, ebony carving, and gem polishing, bringing history and culture to life.

• Early morning safari at Yala National Park with packed breakfast included.
• Continue to Galle and explore the coastal town (approx. travel time 2-2.5 hours).
• Later, transfer to Beruwala and check in to the hotel (approx. travel time 1.5-2 hours)
• Dinner included. 
• Overnight stay at Occidental Eden Beruwala or similar. 

DAYS 8 & 9: BERUWALA 

Spend two relaxing days in Beruwala, a serene coastal town known for its golden beaches and calm waters. Unwind by the sea, take refreshing swims, or enjoy leisurely walks along the shore. Savour fresh seafood at beachside restaurants, soak up the sun, and simply let the tranquil surroundings rejuvenate you.

• Breakfast & dinner included. 
• Overnight stay at Occidental Eden Beruwala or similar. 

Choose the 11- or 13-night tour and enjoy 2 or 4 additional nights at this paradisiacal coastal retreat, giving you more time to relax and unwind.

DAY 10: DEPARTURE

After breakfast, spend some final moments at your beach hotel before taking your transfer to the airport, marking the end of this unforgettable journey.

• Breakfast included. 
• Check out at 12 pm. 
• Transfer to the airport included (approx. 1.5-2 hours)

Enjoy a stay in a Standard Room in the following carefully selected hotels (or similar):

 
Habarana: Habaran Village by Cinnamon or similar

Mahiyanganaya: Mapakada Village or similar

Haputale: Dream Cliff Mountain Resort or similar

Tissamaharama: Chaarya Resort or similar

Beruwala: Occidental Eden Beruwala or similar 

You'll also enjoy additional benefits during your stay in selected hotels: 

An experienced English-speaking driver guide will accompany you throughout the tour, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Discover Sri Lanka’s coastal wonders as you visit a compassionate turtle hatchery safeguarding newborn turtles before enjoying a tranquil Madu River boat safari through lush mangroves, hidden islands, and vibrant wildlife.

Enjoy the convenience of an early check-in upgrade, allowing you to settle in and start your stay as soon as you arrive.

Enjoy the convenience of a late check-out upgrade, giving you extra time to relax and make the most of your final hours before departure.

Sri Lanka, a small island nation with a 2,000-year-old culture, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and ancient heritage. Home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country offers a fascinating blend of history, wildlife, and culture. Often overlooked by travellers heading to India or Asia, Sri Lanka remains one of the region's best-kept secrets.

Must-sees:

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A UNESCO-listed ancient citadel, offering dramatic views, frescoes, and rich historical significance.
• Ella: A hill town surrounded by lush tea plantations, ideal for scenic hikes like Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.
• Yala National Park: A wildlife haven, where safaris offer opportunities to see leopards, elephants, and diverse birdlife.

Culinary culture:

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of bold flavours and fresh ingredients. Rice and curry, with its spiced vegetable, meat, or fish options, is a staple of the local diet. Hoppers, crispy rice pancakes, are a beloved dish, served with eggs or sweetened. Coastal areas excel in fresh seafood, with delicacies such as fish ambul thiyal (tangy fish curry) and crab curries. Street food like kottu roti, a stir-fry of flatbread with vegetables and meat, is a must-try, while desserts such as watalappam and tropical fruits like Mangosteen offer a refreshing finish.

Dive deeper:

Beyond the famous attractions, Sri Lanka’s charm lies in its lesser-known gems. Galle Fort is a colonial-era city filled with boutiques, cafes, and history. A scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella is considered one of the world’s most picturesque journeys. For a more unique experience, visit Jaffna in the north, where you’ll encounter Tamil culture and peaceful, untouched beaches.

Good to know:

The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). The ideal time to visit varies by region - the south and west coasts are ideal from November to April, while the east coast is preferable from May to September. Tuk-tuks are great for short trips, while scenic train routes and private drivers offer flexibility for exploring.