Sacred Ruins & Coastal Charm

14N/15D

A slower-paced, European-friendly journey blending cultural treasures, wildlife, hill country vistas, and coastal relaxation. This itinerary allows travellers to explore Sri Lanka’s ancient cities, scenic highlands, lush tea estates, and serene coastlines at a relaxed and enjoyable pace. Each day is thoughtfully balanced between sightseeing, leisure, and authentic experiences that connect you to the heart of the island.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Negombo / Overnight in Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where a Sonne & Ceylon representative meets you. Transfer approximately 20 minutes to your beachfront hotel in Negombo. Enjoy a restful evening, stroll along the lagoon or beach, and savour a relaxed dinner featuring fresh local seafood.

Day 02: Drive to Sigiriya / Sigiriya Rock Fortress / Overnight in Sigiriya

After breakfast, begin a 4.5-hour journey to Sigiriya, passing scenic villages and lush countryside. Upon arrival, climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress to view ancient frescoes, water gardens, and panoramic jungle vistas. Enjoy a quiet evening at your lodge surrounded by forested landscapes.

Day 03: Morning safari at Minneriya / Dambulla Cave Temple visit / Optional cultural demonstration / Overnight in Sigiriya

Rise early for a safari at Minneriya National Park, where you may see elephants, deer, and abundant birdlife. Afterward, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, exploring intricate murals and Buddha statues carved into the rock. In the late afternoon, attend an optional cultural demonstration or enjoy free time at your lodge.

Day 04: Polonnaruwa ruins tour / Traditional pottery workshop / Overnight in Polonnaruwa

Transfer 1.5 hours to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Explore the UNESCO-listed ruins with a local guide, including temples, statues, and ancient water tanks. Participate in a traditional pottery workshop with artisans before returning to your hotel to relax.

Day 05: Transfer to Kandy / Temple of the Tooth / Evening Kandyan dance performance / Overnight in Kandy

Drive approximately 3.5 hours to Kandy, stopping en route for refreshments or photos. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the evening, enjoy a Kandyan dance performance featuring traditional drumming and colourful costumes.

Day 06: Peradeniya Botanical Gardens / Spice garden cooking class / Optional tea tasting / Overnight in Kandy

Begin the day at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, wandering among orchids, towering palms, and giant ferns. Continue to a spice garden where you learn about cinnamon, cardamom, and other local spices and participate in a cooking class. An optional tea tasting session is available before a relaxed afternoon exploring Kandy’s markets or lakeside promenade.

Day 07: Scenic train to Nuwara Eliya / Tea plantation walk / Gregory Lake stroll / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Board a morning train to Nuwara Eliya, passing lush tea estates, misty mountains, and cascading waterfalls. Arrive in the “Little England” of Sri Lanka and enjoy a guided walk through a working tea plantation, including leaf plucking and tasting. End the day with a stroll around Gregory Lake and evening leisure at your hill country hotel.

Day 08: Horton Plains hike / World’s End viewpoint / Birdwatching / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Depart before sunrise for Horton Plains National Park, a highland plateau with unique flora and fauna. Hike to World’s End, a sheer cliff offering breathtaking views across valleys and tea plantations. Along the way, spot endemic birds and small mammals, returning to your hotel for a late breakfast and restful afternoon.

Day 09: Drive to Ella / Little Adam’s Peak / Nine Arches Bridge / Overnight in Ella

Travel approximately 2.5 hours to Ella, a mountain village surrounded by lush tea plantations. Hike Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic valley views and then visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, often framed by passing trains. Enjoy a relaxed evening at your boutique mountain lodge with views of the surrounding hills.

Day 10: Ravana Falls / Village visit with handicraft demonstration / Overnight in Ella

Visit the cascading Ravana Falls in the morning and spend time at a nearby village experiencing traditional Sri Lankan life. Participate in a hands-on handicraft demonstration, learning local weaving or pottery techniques. Return to your lodge for an afternoon of leisure in the peaceful highlands.

Day 11: Drive to Mirissa / Whale watching excursion / Leisure at the beach / Overnight in Mirissa

Leave Ella early for a scenic 5-hour drive to Mirissa on the southern coast. In the morning or early afternoon, embark on a whale watching excursion where blue whales and dolphins may appear. Relax on the golden beaches or enjoy a sunset walk along the shore before dinner.

Day 12: Optional local cooking class / Ayurveda spa session / Sunset coastal walk / Overnight in Mirissa

Spend a flexible day indulging in wellness and culinary experiences. Participate in an optional local cooking class, or book a traditional Ayurvedic spa treatment. Finish the day with a gentle sunset walk along Mirissa’s coastline, absorbing the colors and calm of the Indian Ocean.

Day 13: Transfer to Bentota / River safari / Beach relaxation / Overnight in Bentota

Drive approximately 2 hours to Bentota, known for its river estuary and beach resorts. Enjoy a private river safari through mangroves, spotting birds, monitor lizards, and freshwater turtles. Spend the afternoon at leisure on Bentota’s pristine beaches or your resort’s facilities.

Day 14: Optional water sports / Ayurveda massage / Sunset boat cruise / Overnight in Bentota

Choose from optional water sports like jet skiing, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding, or enjoy a restorative Ayurveda massage. In the evening, set out on a sunset boat cruise along the river or coast. Dinner is served at your resort, offering local seafood and tropical flavors.

Day 15: Transfer to Colombo / City highlights or guided street art tour / Airport transfer

Travel back to Colombo for your departure, stopping to explore city highlights or take a guided street art tour showcasing contemporary urban creativity. Arrive at the airport in time for your flight home, carrying memories of Sri Lanka’s rich culture, lush landscapes, and coastal serenity.