Unexplored Sri Lanka

Day 1: Yapahuwa

Welcome at Colombo Airport, transfer to the Cultural Triangle of the island. The first stop is the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a roughly 92 m high elevation offering a stunning panoramic view. Afterwards, continue to the hotel with the remainder of the day at leisure. Dinner and two nights in Sigiriya/Dambulla/Habarana.

Day 2: Ritigala

Breakfast at the hotel, followed by an excursion to Ritigala Mountain (approx. 766 m) with ruins of a former monastery where monks once led a secluded, abstinent life. The site is primarily known for its tranquillity and connection with nature. The cooler and more humid climate at the summit supports unique vegetation, including an increased presence of medicinal/herbal plants typically found in the Himalayas. The day includes a village tour featuring an ox-cart and boat ride to the "Village House," where a refreshing drink awaits. Return by a local Tuk Tuk.

Day 3: Kandy

After breakfast, continue inland to Kandy. Upon arrival, prepare an authentic lunch with a local family, learning about the nuances of Sinhalese cuisine and its preparation methods. Then, transfer to the hotel in Kandy. The afternoon city tour includes a visit to the famous Temple of the Tooth, where a tooth relic of Buddha is reputedly housed. Dinner and overnight in Kandy.

Day 4: Mahiyanganaya / Dambana

Breakfast at the hotel. Then, transfer to Mahiyanganaya and Dambana, where you will delve into the history of Sri Lanka's indigenous people. The Vedda tribe maintains traditional lifestyles and lives in close connection with nature. Engage and learn more about their daily lives and activities such as hunting and honey gathering. Continue to the Mahiyanganaya Temple, which according to legend, houses a hair relic of Buddha, making it one of the most important Buddhist relics in Sri Lanka. Dinner and two nights in Mahiyanganaya.

Day 5: Ratna Ella Waterfall

Today, embark on a scenic hike to the impressive Ratna Ella Waterfall, surrounded by lush landscapes, rice fields, and shaded jungle paths, culminating in crystal-clear, cold water. On the way back to the hotel, stop in a small village for an authentically prepared lunch with the villagers. The rest of the day is at your leisure for relaxation.

Day 6: Ella

Start the day with a serene boat ride on the lake, setting a peaceful tone. After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Ella, a small town nestled among hills and jungle landscapes. A gentle hike takes you to the top of the approximately 2243 m high Adam's Peak, which offers a breathtaking view. Continue to the Nine Arch Bridge, a relic of British colonial times. Stop at the famous Ella Gap for a unique panoramic view. For the adventurous, an optional Zip Line attraction in the Ella Mountains is available (additional charge of €18 (approx. UK £16 / USD $19)). Transfer to the hotel, dinner, and two nights in Ella.

Day 7: Diyaluma Waterfall

After breakfast, head out to another waterfall: Diyaluma, the second highest in the country (approx. 220 m). Hike to the top, where a natural water park with naturally formed pools awaits. Spend a stress-free day here, cooling off and relaxing. The excursion is well worth it!

Day 8: Udawalawa

In the morning, travel to Udawalawa, visiting an elephant orphanage for motherless elephant calves. The tour concludes with a transfer to the respective beach resort or airport. An optional morning Yoga session at the hotel is available (additional charge of €27 (approx. UK £24 / USD $29)).

Below, find the detailed itinerary as a PDF.