Here’s one of the fantastic tours offered in Sri Lanka, provided by our partners at Flycatcher Trails . This tour immerses you in the island’s rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty over six unforgettable days.
Day 1
Arrival and Cultural Triangle
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll meet your guide for a private transfer to your hotel in the Cultural Triangle (222km / approx. 4 hrs). En route, stop to see the elephants bathing at Pinnawala. Commonly referred to as the ‘Cultural Triangle’, this central plains area boasts ruined temples and ancient cities combined with national parks and glistening reservoirs. UNESCO World Heritage Sites include the striking rock fortress of Sigiriya and the archaeological treasures of Polonnaruwa. The stunning setting and historic interest make a stay in this region a highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka.
Day 2
Sigiriya and Minneriya Safari
Set off this morning for Sigiriya, also known as the ‘Lion Rock’ (15km / approx. 20 mins). This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. A spectacular pillar of rock visible from miles around, Sigiriya is a hardened magma plug of an extinct volcano. Historically, it is thought to have been either a royal fortress built under the reign of King Kashyapa (477 – 495 AD) or a Buddhist monastery.
Minneriya National Park Sigiriya Sigiriya Art
Later in the afternoon, you will drive to Minneriya National Park for a 2-3 hour jeep safari (20km / approx. 45 mins). Dominated by the ancient Minneriya Tank, built in the 3rd Century AD by King Mahasena, the plains and forests of this park are home to herds of elephants who graze and bathe in the tank’s waters. Flocks of cormorants and painted storks, toque macaques, and sambar deer may also be spotted. Depending on the movement of the elephants, you may visit the nearby Kaudulla National Park or Eco Park instead.
Day 3
Dambulla and Kandy
Today you will drive towards Kandy with a stop to visit the Dambulla cave temples en route (105km / approx. 3 hrs). The Dambulla cave temples, another UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the 1st Century BC. This complex of five caves was first used as a refuge by an ancient king who, upon regaining his throne, commissioned magnificent images to be carved from the rock. Later kings made further improvements, and the caves now contain over 150 images of the Buddha painted upon the walls. Continue the drive to Kandy.
Late afternoon, head to a local hall to watch a show of traditional Sri Lankan music, dance, and drumming. Afterwards, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, known locally as Sri Dalada Maligawa, the most sacred temple in Sri Lanka. This important shrine boasts intricate carvings and beautiful Sri Lankan art.
During the evening ‘puja’, throngs of pilgrims visit the temple to glimpse the golden casket said to hold the sacred relic and to make offerings of flowers.
Day 4
Udawalawe National Park
Today you will drive to Udawalawe National Park for an afternoon jeep safari (235km / approx. 6 hrs). Udawalawe National Park is renowned as one of the best places in Sri Lanka to see elephants. Centered on a large reservoir, the light vegetation makes game watching easy, and most visitors will see numerous herds of these gentle giants as they roam the grassland and scrub landscapes. The park also hosts many other species such as water buffalo, sambar deer, monkeys, and the occasional leopard. It is also a wonderful place for birdwatching. Overnight in Udawalawe.
Day 5
Sinharaja Rainforest Trek
Today you will drive to the Sinharaja Rainforest to engage in a trek (80km / approx. 3 hrs). This rainforest is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a biodiversity hotspot, teeming with endemic flora and fauna. After your trek, return to the hotel.
Sinharaja Forest Udawalawa Elephant Udawalawa Lake
Day 6
Elephant Transit Home and Departure
Start the morning at the Elephant Transit Home, a small facility on the border of the national park which cares for orphan elephants until they are ready to be released into the wild. You’ll watch from behind a barrier as the elephants follow the keeper into the compound and eagerly await their turn to receive their milk. Afterwards, leave your hotel and drive back to the airport for your flight (190km / approx. 5 hrs) or extend your stay at the beach.
This tour is a perfect blend of cultural exploration and wildlife adventure, offering a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s natural beauty and rich heritage. If you’re interested in this tour or want more information, contact us or our partners at Flycatcher Trails . You can also visit Tripadvisor for more details and reviews.
