DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN PARADISE - AIRPORT – NEGOMBO (Approx. 30 min transfer)

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, you will be met at the airport and warmly welcomed by a CYRIL TOURS representative, before being transferred to Negombo, conveniently located near the airport.

Negombo is the principal beach resort north of Colombo. It features a picturesque lagoon, numerous historic Catholic churches, and an impressive network of Dutch built canals, many of which are currently being restored. The lively Negombo fish market is especially famous among visitors—you may wish to experience it early in the morning, around 5:30–6:00 a.m.

The afternoon is free for you to relax, unwind by the pool, or enjoy the sunshine. In the evening, check in at Goldi Sands hotel for dinner and an overnight stay. 

Other recommended hotels: Heritance Negombo, Jetwing Beach, Jetwing Blue, Suriya Luxury Resort,

DAY 02 – NEGOMBO LEISURE

Today, if you wish, you may enjoy a two-hour boat safari through the Muthurajawela Wetlands, as Mr. Brian and his group did during their visit. Afterwards, take a leisurely sightseeing tour of Negombo, including a city walk to explore its charming streets, local markets, colonial landmarks, and vibrant coastal atmosphere.

DAY 03 - NEGOMBO – ANURADHAPURA & WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK SAFARI (Approx. 3.30hrs)

After a delicious breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin your journey to Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. En route, embark on an exciting adventure with an optional safari at Wilpattu National Park (Optional) the largest and one of the most pristine national parks in Sri Lanka.

Renowned for its dense forests, serene lakes (known as villus), and abundant wildlife, Wilpattu offers a chance to spot leopards, elephants, sloth bears, deer, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat. The park’s untouched beauty and tranquil atmosphere make it a truly unforgettable experience.

After an exhilarating safari, continue your journey to Anuradhapura, where you’ll check in to your hotel The Lake Forest. Enjoy a relaxing evening, savor a delicious dinner, and unwind with an overnight stay, preparing for another day of exploration in Sri Lanka’s ancient cultural heartland.                 

Other recommended hotels: Palm Garden Village                                                  

DAY 04 – EXPLORING THE ANCIENT WONDERS OF ANURADHAPURA

After breakfast, step back in time as you embark on a guided tour of Anuradhapura, the sacred heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilization. This UNESCO-listed city, once a thriving kingdom, is home to some of the most magnificent Buddhist stupas, monasteries, and archaeological marvels in the world.

A visit to Anuradhapura would not be complete without paying homage to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, the oldest historically documented tree on Earth, grown from a sapling of the original Bodhi Tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment.

Then to the awe-inspiring Ruwanweliseya, a grand white stupa that glimmers under the sun, followed by the towering Jethavanaramaya—the world’s tallest brick structure, second only to the Egyptian pyramids. Marvel at the vast ruins of Abhayagiriya, a testament to the city’s monastic grandeur.

Other highlights include:                                                                                                                               

• Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) – An engineering marvel of ancient hydrology.             
• Samadhi Buddha Statue – A serene masterpiece of ancient Sinhalese sculpture.

At the end of this enriching exploration, return to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to relax, reflect, or wander at leisure.

DAY 05 - SACRED MIHINTALE & MAJESTIC AUKANA – JOURNEY TO HABARANA ((Approx. 3.30hrs)

After a delicious breakfast at the hotel, we’ll check out and set off toward Habarana, pausing to explore two of Sri Lanka’s most revered cultural treasures: Mihintale and Aukana.

Mihintale: The Cradle of Sri Lankan Buddhism

Perched atop a tranquil hill, Mihintale is hallowed as the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It was here in the 3rd century BCE that the monk Mahinda first preached the teachings of the Buddha to King Devanampiyatissa. Wander among ancient stupas, monastic ruins, and rock inscriptions, and climb to the Mihintale Dagoba for sweeping views of the lush countryside. This sacred site offers a profound

connection to Sri Lanka’s spiritual roots.

Aukana: A Stone-Carved Miracle

Next, we’ll visit Aukana, home to a breathtaking 42-foot-tall Buddha statue, meticulously carved from a single granite rock in the 5th century. This towering masterpiece, depicting the Buddha in the Abhaya Mudra (gesture of fearlessness), showcases the extraordinary skill of ancient Lankan sculptors. The statue’s serene expression and intricate details—from the flowing robe to the delicately carved curls—leave visitors in awe.

Evening in Habarana

After immersing ourselves in history and artistry, we’ll continue to Habarana, checking in at the serene  Cinnamon Lodgeunwind amidst nature, enjoy a sumptuous dinner, and recharge for another day of adventure.

As an optional activity can recommend Village tour and Herbal Massage (If you need these activities please inform me in advance, because we have to an appointment, Otherwise it is full)

In the evening at 6.00pm to see the beautiful Traditional Cultural Dance performance at Habarana Cultural Centre.

• Graceful traditional dance performances showcasing Sri Lankan heritage
• Cultural rituals and storytelling through movement
• Colourful, vibrant costumes with intricate detailing
• Energetic drumbeats and live music
• Dramatic fire dance and thrilling displays

End of the day return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Other recommended hotels: Heritance Kandalama, Aliya Resort, Habarana village

DAY 06- HABARANA - SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTERSS - POLONNARUWA – HABARANA ((Approx. 3hrs)

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you'll depart for Sigiriya, famously known as the 'Lion Mountain.' This UNESCO World Heritage site showcases remarkable fifth-century urban planning, gardening, engineering, hydraulic technology, and art. In 470 AD, King Kashyapa, the son of a non-royal consort, ascended to power after committing patricide and built his magnificent palace atop this 200-meter-high rock to evade his half-brother, Mogallana. The fortress complex features stunning pleasure gardens, extensive moats, and ramparts, along with well-preserved rock paintings of the enchanting Cloud Damsels located halfway up the rock, and the impressive Lion Stairway that leads to the summit. The fortress sprawls over 15 hectares, offering a glimpse into ancient architectural ingenuity.

Following your visit to Sigiriya, you'll proceed to Polonnaruwa, where you'll explore the vibrant history of this medieval kingdom, especially during the reign of King Parakramabahu I (1153-1186). Known as the 'Granary of the East,' his era marked significant agricultural advancements and the creation of complex irrigation systems, including the vast Sea of Parakramabahu, the largest reservoir in Sri Lanka's history. As you wander through the ancient ruins, you'll appreciate the cultural harmony between the Sinhalese and Tamils, evident in the coexistence of Buddhist and Hindu temples within the same complexes. The remnants of palaces, massive granite sculptures, and intricate irrigation works reflect the remarkable development of the period.

In the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating safari at Minneriya National Park, where you'll have the opportunity to observe elephants and diverse wildlife in their natural habitat.

DAY 07 – HABARANA - DAMBULLA - MATALE - KANDY ((Approx. 2.30hrs)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Kandy. En route, you will visit the Golden Rock Cave Temple in Dambulla. Dambulla is renowned for its cave temple, built by King Valagambahu in the 1st century BC in gratitude for the shelter he sought in the caves while fleeing from Indian invaders. Situated on a gigantic granite outcrop that towers more than 160 meters above the surrounding land, the caves are completely covered by ancient frescoes depicting religious and secular scenes. Inside the caves are hundreds of Buddha statues, many carved out of the rock itself, with the largest being the 15-meter-long Dying Buddha.

Continue your journey to Kandy. En route, visit a Matale Hindu temple and traditional Spice Plantation in Matale, where you can learn about Sri Lanka's renowned spices and their traditional uses. Afterwards, visit the historic Nalanda Gedige, an ancient stone temple celebrated for its unique blend of South Indian Dravidian and Buddhist architectural styles.

Kandy is the old capital of Ceylon and the seat of the last Sinhalese Kingdom. It is a charming city with the most important Buddhist temple in the country, set in a peaceful wooded valley overlooking a vast manmade lake. Kandy’s ancient lake sits amidst rolling hills covered by forests and tea plantations. From the upper lake, there are fantastic views of the entire city.

Wandering around Kandy is a delightful experience, with crossroads and interconnecting byroads forming an intricate network. Most pavements are dominated by vendors selling garments, toys, lottery tickets, and a variety of fancy items, making passage almost impossible, especially during festive seasons. The main market in the heart of the town is frequented for its array of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, meat stalls, sweets, clothes, and other goods.

Kandy is also a great place to buy gemstones; sapphires of all colors, rubies, tourmalines, and many precious and semi-precious stones can all be found here. Visitors are invited to explore the workshops, where they can observe the design, cutting, polishing, and setting processes. Checking to Golden crown hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Other recommended hotels: Earls Regency, Kandy Myst by Cinnamon,  Topaz, Thilanka, Suisse Hotel

DAY 08 – PERDENIYA BOTANICAL GARDEN - KANDY CITY TOUR (Half Day)

After breakfast, leave to visit the awe-inspiring Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, also known as the Sri Dalada Maligawa. This temple houses one of the most revered relics in Buddhism—a tooth of the Buddha collected from his funeral pyre. Built within the royal palace complex, this gold-roofed temple is the sole surviving relic of Buddha and has played a significant role in local politics since ancient times. According to tradition, whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country, prompting ancient kings to protect it with the utmost care.

As the former capital of the Sinhalese kings from 1592 to 1815, Kandy's strategic location amidst mountainous terrain and its difficult access made it an impregnable fortress. Today, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, partly due to the temple's historical and cultural significance.

* When planning your visit to the temple, please note that appropriate attire is essential. To show respect, refrain from wearing caps and shorts. It is advisable to all visitors to wear a long-sleeved, light-colored shirt or blouse, a gown, skirt, or pants that are longer than knee-length. Additionally, shoes and slippers are not allowed inside the temple premises and must be left outside; however, wearing socks is permitted.

Next proceed to  Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya. Initially a royal park established in 1821 under British rule, it later became a botanical garden. Here, exotic crops such as coffee, tea, nutmeg, rubber, and cinchona (quinine)—all of which became important to the country’s economy—were first tested. The botanical gardens are fantastic, featuring an excellent orchid house and a wide variety of plant species from around the world. For keen gardeners, at least a morning is recommended to fully explore the gardens, and possibly longer. End of the botanical garden brief City tour of Kandy.

At the end of the day, return to the hotel for an overnight stay.

DAY 09 - KANDY - NUWARAELIYA (Approx. 2.30hrs)

After enjoying breakfast, we will proceed to Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England" due to its picturesque beauty that resembles a typical English countryside.

Enroute to Nuwara Eliya, we will visit to a Tea factory to learn about the tea-growing and processing methods that have made Sri Lanka one of the world's foremost tea exporters. Afterward, we will check into our hotel, situated at an elevation of 1,900 meters above sea level, where you can enjoy a cool and comfortable overnight stay with dinner provided.

In the evening, you are free to explore the charming city of Nuwara Eliya at your leisure. Nuwara Eliya, meaning "City on the Plain" or "City of Light," is located in the central highlands of Sri Lanka and boasts a picturesque landscape and temperate climate. At an altitude of 1,868 meters (6,128 feet), it is considered the most important location for tea production in Sri Lanka and is overlooked by Pidurutalagala, the tallest mountain in the country. Checking to Araliya Green City hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Other recommended hotels: The Grand, The Golden Ridge, Hill Club, St. Andrews, Tea factory hotel

DAY 10 – NUAWARAELIYA – HORTON PLAINS

Visiting Horton Plains, World’s End 

Early this morning, collect your breakfast packets from the hotel reception before departing for Horton Plains National Park.

To experience Horton Plains at its finest, an early morning visit is highly recommended, when the sunrise and clear skies often provide the best opportunity to enjoy its spectacular scenery before the mist rolls in. The scenic drive to the park takes you through breathtaking mountain landscapes, passing towering tree ferns, neatly terraced vegetable gardens, rolling tea plantations, and mist-covered cloud forests.

Upon arrival, begin a leisurely approximately 9 km circular nature walk (around 3–4 hours) through this unique highland plateau. The trail leads to the famous World's End, a dramatic 1,000-metre (3,300-foot) escarpment offering breathtaking panoramic views across the southern plains on a clear day.

Continue to Baker's Falls, one of the park's most picturesque waterfalls, nestled amidst lush forest and providing a peaceful highlight of your walk.

After completing the trek, return to Nuwara Eliya.

En route to your hotel, enjoy a sightseeing tour of this charming hill town, affectionately known as "Little England" for its cool climate, colonial-era architecture, and beautifully maintained gardens. Visit some of the town's most notable attractions, including Victoria Park, Gregory Lake, the historic Nuwara Eliya Post Office, the colourful Fruit Market, and, time permitting, the beautiful Hakgala Botanical Garden. Throughout the journey, admire the stunning scenery of rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and tranquil countryside that make this region one of Sri Lanka's most captivating destinations.

Following your sightseeing tour, return to Araliya Green Cityhotel and enjoy a relaxing afternoon at leisure. Situated in the heart of Sri Lanka's picturesque hill country, this contemporary five-star retreat provides the perfect setting to relax and unwind after an active day.

Enjoy the cool mountain climate while making the most of the hotel's excellent facilities, including its heated indoor swimming pool, wellness spa, fitness centre, and a selection of restaurants and cafés serving both local and international cuisine. The hotel's central location also offers the opportunity for a leisurely stroll around the charming town of Nuwara Eliya, where you can visit nearby parks, cafés, boutique shops, or simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the "Little England" of Sri Lanka.

This relaxing afternoon provides the ideal balance to your journey, allowing you to recharge before continuing your tour through Sri Lanka's scenic hill country.

DAY 11 - NUWARAELIYA– ELLA (Approx. 2.30hrs)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Nanu Oya Railway Station to board your reserved-seat train for one of the world's most scenic rail journeys to Ella.

As the train slowly winds its way through Sri Lanka's picturesque hill country, enjoy breathtaking views of rolling emerald-green tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and charming rural villages. The route passes through dense pine and eucalyptus forests, neatly terraced tea estates where tea pluckers can often be seen at work, and dramatic valleys that showcase the island's spectacular natural beauty.

Along the journey, the train travels across iconic stone bridges, through numerous tunnels carved into the mountains, and past small countryside railway stations that reflect the timeless charm of Sri Lanka's colonial railway heritage. Keep an eye out for colourful wildflowers, flowing streams, and panoramic viewpoints that make this route a favourite among photographers and nature lovers alike.

As you descend towards Ella, the scenery transforms into lush forests and expansive valleys, offering magnificent views of the surrounding highlands. The gentle rhythm of the train, the cool mountain air, and the ever-changing landscapes create an unforgettable travel experience, widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world.

Upon arrival at Ella Railway Station, you will be met by your chauffeur-guide and transferred to your hotel for check-in.

Upon arrival, we’ll check into the Morning Dew resort where dinner will be served, followed by an overnight stay.

DAY 12 – ELLA

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel. After breakfast, leave to visit Little Adam’s Peak, a popular viewpoint in Ella. Next, head to the Nine Arches Bridge, an iconic landmark known for its stunning architecture. After exploring these attractions, take some time to visit the charming city of Ella, which offers a variety of restaurants and cafes. Ella attracts a higher number of tourists compared to other locations, making it a vibrant spot to explore.

Visit the Sri Lankan cooking demonstration in Ella, giving you the opportunity to learn about and taste traditional Sri Lankan cuisine.

The Sri Lankan Cooking demonstration is a delightful experience that offers you a hands-on opportunity to learn about the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka. During the session, you will be guided by a skilled local chef who will share insights into the unique ingredients and cooking techniques that make Sri Lankan cuisine so special.

Introduction to Ingredients:

Discover the essential spices and herbs used in Sri Lankan cooking, such as cinnamon, cardamom, curry leaves, and chili.

Learn about the local produce, including tropical fruits and vegetables, and how they are incorporated into traditional dishes.

Cooking Techniques:

Observe and participate in various cooking methods, such as sautéing, steaming, and simmering.

Throughout the demonstration, the chef will share stories and cultural anecdotes about Sri Lankan cuisine, enhancing your understanding of the country's culinary heritage.

This cooking demonstration is not only a fun and interactive way to learn about Sri Lankan food but also a chance to connect with the local culture and traditions. It’s a memorable highlight of your visit to Ella!

End of the return to hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

DAY 13 – ELLA - BUDURUWAGALA – YALA (Approx. 3.30hrs)

After enjoying breakfast, we will proceed to Yala, with a stop to view the beautiful Ravana Waterfall. Nestled in the lush green forest, this waterfall cascades down to a height of around 25 meters, creating a breathtaking sight. En route, we will also visit the ancient Buduruwagala Temple, which houses seven statues, including the tallest standing Buddha statue in Sri Lanka, all carved from a single rock.

After our visits, we will continue our journey and have lunch in Tissamaharamaya (Tissa), where you can choose from a variety of restaurants.

Upon arrival in Tissa, we will check into our hotel and then head to Yala National Park for an evening safari in a hired 4x4 vehicle. Established in 1938 and covering an area of 1,570 square kilometers, Yala National Park is located in the southeastern corner of Sri Lanka. The park features diverse habitats, including scrub jungle, blackish lagoons, lakes, and rivers, and is home to an impressive array of wildlife, including approximately 500 elephants and 120 leopards.

Other animals you may spot include wild buffaloes, sambar and spotted deer, sloth bears, macaques, langur monkeys, jackals, mongooses, and wild boar. The park also hosts a large population of crocodiles and boasts rich birdlife, with over 130 species recorded, including many migratory species.

Peacocks are a common sight throughout the park, and the national bird of Sri Lanka, the jungle fowl, can often be seen wandering around. You'll also encounter a variety of aquatic birds, including storks, sandpipers, pelicans, egrets, herons, ibises, kingfishers, and the magnificent Indian darter. Birds of prey, such as the hawk eagle, along with colorful smaller species like green and blue bee-eaters, hoopoes, parakeets, and bulbuls, add to the park's avian diversity.

The best time to visit Yala National Park is from December to March, when wildlife sightings are particularly abundant. Checking to Chaarya hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

Other recommended hotels: Cinnamon wild, Jetwing Yala, Kithala, The Safari,

Day 14 - YALA – UNAWATUNA (Approx. 2.30hrs)

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Unawatuna. Upon arrival, check in at Thambapanni Pavilion Waves Beach Resort and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure

Unawatuna is a coastal town in Galle district of Sri Lanka. Unawatuna is a major tourist attraction in Sri Lanka and famous for its beautiful beach and corals. It is a suburb of Galle city which is situated about 5 km southeast to the city center. Unawatuna is rich in its biodiversity. Over sixty species of endemic birds, including Terns, Egrets, Herons, Sandpipers, Kingfishers, as well as rarer species such as the Lesser Whistling Duck, the Asian Palm Swift, the White Breasted Water hen, the Turnstone Loten's Sunbird, and the Black Bittern have been sighted in the locality by the ornithologist, Clive Byers. These birds are mostly sighted in the remaining marshy area and Rumassala Hillock.

Off the coast of Unawatuna, beneath the Indian Ocean lies a number of coral reefs, shipwrecks, and a great variety of fish and turtles. The turtles still wade onto the shore to lay their nests and eggs, and at times, as if to lay first claim to the sandy shore now invaded by the tourists and dotted by restaurateurs, even go right into the beach front restaurants.

The Rumassala coral reefs at the east end of the Galle Harbor attract divers, but are now endangered due to possible port development. Eco treks in the shrub jungles of Rumassala are also available.

A legendary curved bay with reef protected shallow water on the far side that offers safe sea swimming. Unawatuna is primarily a resort for budget and independent travelers with a long line of guesthouses cramming the beach. The main Beach Road has become a sort of ‘Mini-Goa’ with restaurants and shops that open into the night, and even the odd nightclub too!

Other recommended hotels: Araliya Beach Resort 

Day 15 – LEISURE IN UNAWATUNA

After 13 days of exploring Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage and breathtaking landscapes, today is reserved entirely for relaxation by the golden shores of Unawatuna. This charming coastal town is renowned for its crescent-shaped beach, turquoise waters, and laid-back atmosphere.

Spend the day at leisure, soaking up the sun, swimming in the gentle waves, or enjoying a refreshing drink at a beachfront café. For those who wish to explore, optional activities include:

•          Snorkeling or diving to discover colorful coral reefs and marine life.

•          A short visit to the historic Galle Fort (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), just 15 minutes away.

•          Exploring the lively town with its boutique shops, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife.

Whether you prefer complete relaxation on the beach or light exploration, Unawatuna offers the perfect setting to unwind before your journey continues.

Day 16 – UNAWATUNA – COLOMBO (Approx. 2.00hrs)

After breakfast checkout from the beach resort and our journey will continue to Colombo,

After our exciting day of sightseeing, we will check into Cinnamon Lakeside hotel in Colombo for dinner and an overnight stay.

Other recommended hotels: Cinnamon Life, Cinnamon Grand, Galle Face Hotel, The Kingsbury, Marino Beach, Mount Lavinia Hotel

Day 17 – COLOMBO

After breakfast in the hotel, we will have a guided Colombo city tour, a vibrant city that is rich in cultural sights and Buddhist temples. During the tour, we will drive through the city's commercial center, where grand colonial-era buildings stand alongside modern hotels and office structures. We will also explore the bustling markets and bazaars in Pettah, where you can pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Day 18 – COLOMBO – AIRPORT (Approx. 1.30hrs)

As your two-week journey in Sri Lanka comes to a close, we bid you farewell with fond memories of your time spent here. We sincerely hope that your experiences have been enriching and enjoyable. We encourage you to provide any feedback or suggestions regarding your travels, as we are committed to continuously improving our services.

Please be advised that the departure time for your flight is fast approaching, and we kindly remind you to make necessary arrangements to be at the airport at least 2.30 hours before your scheduled flight time. If there are any last-minute activities or attractions you wish to visit before your departure, please do not hesitate to inform us so that we can assist you accordingly.

Package including

•          Transport provides by an air-conditioned, fully insured, private luxury vehicle.

•          The service of an experienced English-speaking chauffeur guide.

•          Accommodation at above mentioned hotels or similar. (All 4 star & 5 star)

•          Meals Half board (Breakfast and dinner included)

•          Unlimited drinking water while you are in the van,

•          Chauffeur Guide's accommodation and fuel.

•          All parking, Expressway tolls, Airport entry, parking & paging.

•          All taxes up to date.

Package not including of:

•          Air ticket, Visa (You can apply visa online by this link http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/)

•          Travel insurance,

•          Supplements at hotels due to special venues,

•          Any other meal and beverages not mentioned above.

•          Additional transfers, sightseeing.

•          Early check in or late checkout charges.

•          Expenses of personal nature.

•          Tips and Porterage

•          Any other services not specified above.

Important Travel Information for Sri Lanka

o          Train Travel

Train tickets must be purchased exactly one month prior to the travel date. To secure tickets, your passport number is required, as it must be presented to the station officer. Passengers without a passport will not be permitted to board.

o          Temple Visits

We recommend bringing a pair of slippers for temple visits, as footwear is not permitted inside for both men and women. Slippers are easier to remove than shoes.

o          Dress Code for Temples

Sleeveless shirts, T-shirts, and short pants are not permitted. However, three-quarter length trousers are acceptable for both men and women.

HOTELS