Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where your Sonne & Ceylon representative greets you. A short 20-minute drive takes you to Negombo, a relaxed coastal town with lagoon views. Settle into your hotel and unwind by the beach or pool before enjoying a quiet evening with fresh seafood and ocean air.

After breakfast, begin your 4.5-hour journey north to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital. Explore its vast complex of monasteries, stone stupas, and sacred fig trees during a guided storytelling tour that brings history to life. As the sun sets, enjoy a gentle walk through a nearby village and connect with local life before dinner.

Rise early for a 5.30 a.m. departure to Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Climb the ancient rock steps just in time to watch the sunrise bathe the landscape in gold. Return for breakfast and later join a local craft workshop where artisans teach traditional techniques passed down through generations.

Depart for Sigiriya (approx. 2.5 hours). In the afternoon, ascend the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its frescoes and 5th-century royal gardens. In the evening, witness a traditional dance performance that celebrates the region’s ancient folklore before settling into your eco-lodge.

Set out early for Minneriya National Park, where you may witness herds of elephants gathering near the reservoir. After breakfast, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple to admire ancient murals and statues carved into the rock. Return to your resort for an afternoon at leisure surrounded by tropical forest.

Drive 1.5 hours to Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO heritage site. Explore its well-preserved ruins and stone sculptures with a local guide before enjoying a leisurely bicycle ride through the ancient city’s lakeside paths. Spend the evening at a lakeside resort watching the sunset reflect on Parakrama Samudra.

After breakfast, begin your 4-hour scenic journey to Kandy, the cultural heart of the island. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site. In the evening, attend an optional traditional performance featuring Kandyan drummers and fire dancers.

Stroll through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, famed for its orchid house and towering royal palms. Continue to a spice garden where you can learn about cinnamon, clove, and pepper cultivation before sampling local teas. Spend the afternoon exploring Kandy’s colorful markets or relaxing by the lake.

Board the morning train to Nuwara Eliya, one of the most scenic rides in Asia, passing emerald tea fields and misty valleys. Visit a working tea estate to learn about plucking and tasting techniques before checking in at your hill country hotel. In the evening, enjoy a peaceful walk around Gregory Lake.

Depart early for Horton Plains, a protected plateau rich in biodiversity. Begin your 3-hour hike to World’s End viewpoint for sweeping views across the plains and valley. Along the trail, spot sambar deer, exotic birds, and unique flora before returning for a warm breakfast and a restful afternoon.

Travel 2.5 hours to Ella, a mountain village surrounded by tea gardens. After check-in, hike up Little Adam’s Peak for panoramic views of the valley. Later, visit the Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural marvel framed by lush jungle, and watch a passing train roll by before dinner at your boutique lodge.

Spend the morning visiting the cascading Ravana Falls. Enjoy an optional guided village walk to meet local craftspeople and learn traditional woodcarving or weaving. The rest of the day is yours to relax, visit small cafes, or simply enjoy the serenity of the highlands.

Leave Ella early for a 5-hour drive to Mirissa. After settling in, embark on a whale watching excursion where you may see blue whales and dolphins gliding through the ocean. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the beach or watching the sunset over the bay.

Journey along the southern coast to Galle, where cobblestone streets and colonial architecture await within the historic fort. Continue to Colombo for a short city highlights tour before your airport transfer, carrying with you the warmth and beauty of Sri Lanka’s living heritage.