Treasures of Sri Lanka

Upon your arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be greeted by your National Escort from Wendy Wu Tours. Embark on a 45-minute transfer to your hotel in Colombo. Rest of the day is at leisure.

After breakfast, embark on a captivating Colombo city tour, taking you through the district of Cinnamon Gardens, visits to the iconic Lotus Tower, the historic Fort area, the vibrant Sea Street, a Hindu Temple adorned with intricate stone carvings, and the Dutch Church of Wolfendhal. Afterwards, delight in a food walk offering a chance to savour over 10 types of local food varieties.

Proceed to Dambulla and check in. Later, head to Polonnaruwa, stopping for lunch at Priyamali Gedara on the way. Polonnaruwa, founded in the 11th Century AD and since governed by many kings, experienced its Golden Age under King Parakrambahu I during the 12th Century AD when trade and agriculture flourished. Return to your hotel.

Today you visit the well-known Sigiriya Rock Fortress, built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century to safeguard himself from rivals. Afterwards, you will visit Hiriwaduna Village for an authentic Sri Lankan lunch and cultural experience. Enjoy a catamaran ride on the lake before heading to explore Wasgamuwa National Park.

Head to Mahiyanganaya, with a stop at the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple along the way. Also known as the ‘Golden Temple’, it is situated within a large rock, stands over 160 meters tall and spans more than 1.5 kilometres around its base. Continue to Mahiyanganaya. Later visit Vedda Village where the indigenous tribe has an interesting history.

Start your day with breakfast at Sorabora Lake, enjoying a stunning view before a scenic boat ride at Sorabora Wewa, an ancient water reservoir built in the 2nd-century BC. Relax in the afternoon until your visit to Maduru Oya National Park, known for its diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, and various bird species.

Travel onwards to Kandy with the rest of the day at leisure until the evening, when you'll head to the Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic. This World Heritage Site, locally known as ‘Dalada Maligawa’, is a sacred place that houses palm-leaf transcripts. Enjoy a cultural dance show before returning to your hotel.

Today, after an early breakfast, you will embark on a charming train journey from Kandy to Ella, a route reminiscent of colonial times, when the British travelled in similar style in the late 1800s. Enjoy a picturesque ride through lush forests, quaint villages, cascading waterfalls and scenic tea estates. This journey promises breath-taking views and an authentic experience through one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful landscapes.

Head off to climb Little Adam's Peak, also known as ‘Punchi Sri Pada’. The peak is surrounded by lush green landscapes and tea plantations and a breathtaking view of Ella Rock, Ella Gap & Ruwana Falls await when you summit. Return for breakfast and a relaxing day.

After breakfast, you will embark on a tuk-tuk ride to visit the Nine Arch Bridge. Also known as the 'Bridge in the Sky,' this structure was ingeniously constructed by connecting two bog mountains during the building of the Badulla – Colombo railway. It stands as a remarkable example of colonial-era railway construction in the country, offering a fascinating glimpse into Sri Lanka's engineering heritage.

After breakfast, you will proceed to Yala, where you will have the afternoon to relax before heading out for a wildlife jeep safari. Yala is renowned for its rare and impressive leopards, and is home to herds of wild elephants, bears, wild boars, buffalo, deer, crocodiles and a wide variety of bird species. The vegetation ranges from open parkland to dense jungle, and the park offers an abundant water supply for the animals and birds who call it home.

Today you continue to Unawatuna, where you’ll have the opportunity to visit the famous stilt fishermen, as they go about their daily routines. In chest-deep water, just a few metres off-shore, they are perched on a crossbar off a single pole planted into the seabed. This traditional method of fishing has been practiced for generations. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

After breakfast, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a market visit and shop for the freshest ingredients required for your cooking session. You will then learn how to prepare 5-6 authentic Sri Lankan dishes before you go off and discover Galle Fort. This imposing 16th-century Dutch fort has you wandering through the living museum, exploring the old District Judge's house, and culminates at the iconic lighthouse on the ramparts.

Transfer to the airport for your departure flight.