Sri Lanka - The Pearl of The Indian Ocean

SRI LANKA

The Pearl of the Indian Ocean

21 August - 05 September 2027 | 16 Days

A journey through ancient temples, wildlife safaris, lush tea plantations, scenic railways and tropical beaches in the heart of Sri Lanka.

Day 1 | Saturday 21 August

We meet at Malta International Airport at 07:00 to check in for our flights with Turkish Airlines to Colombo via Istanbul. Flights TK1370 / TK0730 departs from Malta at 09:25

Day 2 | Sunday 22 August ARRIVAL IN SRI LANKA • ANAWILUNDAWA WETLAND • YAPA HUWA • ANURADHAPURA

Arrive in Colombo airport at 05:55. Our Sri Lankan adventure begins with an early morning breakfast before travelling north along the picturesque coastal route towards Anawilundawa Wetland Sanctuary, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve renowned for its rich biodiversity, birdlife and tranquil surroundings. This gentle introduction to Sri Lanka's natural beauty allows you to relax after our international flight. Along the journey, we will pass through the famous Coconut Triangle, see local Prawn Farming areas and experience the changing rural landscapes that showcase authentic Sri Lankan village life. Free time and continue to the historic Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's medieval capitals. Then proceed to Anuradhapura and check in at the 4-Star Rajarata Hotel. The rest of the day at leisure, with time to unwind by the hotel's spacious swimming pool or enjoy a refreshing drink at the bar after your journey. Dinner at the Hotel

Day 3 | Monday 23 August WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK SAFARI • ANURADHAPURA

Early morning departure takes us to Wilpattu National Park, Sri Lanka's largest and oldest national park, celebrated for its unique natural lakes ("villus"), diverse wildlife and excellent opportunities to encounter elephants, spotted deer, sloth bears, crocodiles and, with a little luck, the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Enjoy an exciting half-day Jeep Safari through the park's unspoilt wilderness. A packed breakfast will be provided during the excursion. Following the safari, enjoy free time before continuing to Mihintale, one of Sri Lanka's most sacred historical sites and widely regarded as the birthplace of Buddhism in the country. Surrounded by peaceful, forested hills, Mihintale offers breathtaking panoramic views. After exploring Mihintale, return to Anuradhapura and time at leisure. Dinner at the hotel

Day 4 | Tuesday 24 August SACRED ANURADHAPURA – AVUKANA BUDDHA– KALA WEWA– DAMBULLA

After breakfast, embark on a guided tour of the Sacred City of Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its magnificent monasteries, impressive stupas, sacred shrines and the revered Sri Maha Bodhi, the oldest historically documented tree in the world, grown from a sapling of the tree under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Following lunch, continue to the magnificent Avukana Buddha Statue, one of Sri Lanka's finest ancient stone sculptures. Standing nearly 12 meters high and carved from a single granite rock face, this masterpiece reflects the exceptional craftsmanship and artistic achievements of Sri Lanka's ancient civilisation.A short drive brings us to Kala Wewa, the vast ancient reservoir constructed by King Dhatusena. Continue our journey to Dambulla and check in at the 5-Star Jetwing Lake Hotel located at a beautiful setting amidst peaceful natural surroundings. Dinner at the hotel

Day 5 | Wednesday 25 August SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS • VILLAGE EXPERIENCE • HERITANCE KANDALAMA

Rise early this morning to climb the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. Built by King Kashyapa in the 5th century AD, the ancient citadel is renowned for its royal palace ruins, remarkable frescoes, landscaped water gardens and breathtaking panoramic views. Then we proceed to enjoy an authentic Hiriwadunna Village Experience, providing a glimpse into traditional rural life. Travel through the peaceful village surroundings before taking part in a hands-on Sri Lankan cookery demonstration where you will discover local ingredients and traditional cooking techniques. Afterwards, savour a freshly prepared Sri Lankan lunch. In the afternoon, visit the award-winning Heritance Kandalama, Geoffrey Bawa's architectural masterpiece, beautifully integrated into the surrounding forest and overlooking Kandalama Lake. Return to the hotel for a relaxing evening. Dinner at the hotel

Day 6 | Thursday 26 August DAMBULLA • NALANDA GEDIGE • MATALE • KANDY

After After breakfast, check out from the hotel and begin the day's journey with a visit to the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the largest, best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Admire its remarkable collection of ancient Buddha statues and beautifully preserved murals dating back over 2,000 years. Continue to the historic Aluvihare Rock Temple in Matale. Next, visit the remarkable Nalanda Gedige, an ancient stone temple renowned for its unique fusion of Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles. Proceed to a renowned Spice Garden in Matale, where you will discover Sri Lanka's world-famous spices and medicinal herbs. Free time and continue a scenic drive to Kandy the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Upon arrival, check in to the 4-Star Oak Ray Heritage Hotel, located in the city Centre. Dinner at the hotel

Day 7 | Friday 27 August KANDY HERITAGE & CULTURAL EXPERIENCE

After breakfast, begin the day with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist shrine and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Home to the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Continue with a guided Kandy city tour, discovering the unique charm of Sri Lanka's last royal capital. Visit a traditional wood carving workshop, followed by a Batik Factory to observe the intricate process of Sri Lanka's famous hand-dyed textiles. Gem Museum, Photo stop at a scenic viewpoint overlooking the city and picturesque Kandy Lake, Free time and proceed to experience everyday life with a leisurely walk through the vibrant at the fruit and vegetable market, where colourful displays of fresh tropical produce and local spices provide an authentic insight into Sri Lankan culture. In the evening, enjoy a spectacular Traditional Kandyan cultural dance performance, featuring vibrant costumes, energetic drumming and the famous fire-walking display. After the performance, enjoy some free time before returning to the hotel for dinner.

Day 8 | Saturday 28 August KANDY • PERADENIYA • RAMBODA• NUWARA ELIYA

After breakfast, check out of the hotel and begin your journey into Sri Lanka's picturesque hill country with a visit to the magnificent Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya. The gardens are home to an impressive collection of tropical flora, towering royal palms, colourful orchids, giant bamboo and rare medicinal plants. Continue along one of Sri Lanka's most Scenic Mountain Roads, passing lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and charming hillside villages. Stop at the beautiful Ramboda Waterfall for lunch (At leisure) and you can enjoy spectacular views of one of the country's highest waterfalls. In the afternoon, visit both the renowned Damro Tea Factory and Bluefield Tea Gardens. Each offers a unique perspective on Sri Lanka's world-famous Ceylon Tea industry. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, affectionately known as "Little England" for its cool climate, colonial architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. Check at the 4-Star Araliya Red Hotel

Day 9 | Sunday 29 August NUWARA ELIYA • HORTON PLAINS NATIONAL PARK • NUWARA ELIYA

Breakfast and depart for Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most spectacular highland nature reserves. The park is renowned for its rolling grasslands, mist-covered & cloud forests. Enjoy a scenic walk through this pristine landscape, visiting the famous World's End Viewpoint and the picturesque Baker's Falls, while keeping an eye out for sambar deer and a variety of endemic bird species. In the afternoon, enjoy a Nuwara Eliya City Tour, exploring the charming colonial town visit its highlights, including Gregory Lake, Victoria Park, the historic Post Office, and the lively local market. Dinner at the hotel

Day 10 | Monday 30 August NUWARA ELIYA • SCENIC TRAIN JOURNEY • NANU OYA TO ELLA • ELLA

After After breakfast, check out from the hotel and transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station to board one of the world's most scenic train journeys. Travelling through Sri Lanka's breathtaking hill country, the route winds past emerald-green tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls and picturesque rural villages, offering unforgettable views throughout the journey. Upon arrival at Ella Railway Station, transfer to our 4-Star MOI Ella Hotel by DBI for check-in.

Day 11 | Tuesday 31 August DISCOVER THE BEAUTY OF ELLA

After breakfast, begin the day with a walk to Little Adam's Peak, one of Ella's most popular viewpoints. The gentle walk-through lush tea plantations is rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. Continuing to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive colonial-era railway bridge nestled amidst dense jungle and tea estates. Free time and proceed to visit the beautiful Ravana Falls, one of Sri Lanka's most famous waterfalls, surrounded by lush greenery. In the afternoon, visit the peaceful Kubawela Mahamevnawa Buddhist Monastery, beautifully nestled among the hills surrounding Ella. Complimentary cup of tea or coffee is offered as a gesture of Sri Lankan hospitality, providing a unique opportunity to experience the serenity and warmth of a living Buddhist community. Afterwards, return to Ella town for some free time to relax, browse local boutiques or enjoy one of the town's cosy cafés before returning to the hotel. Dinner at the hotel

Day 12 | Wednesday 01 September ELLA • ELEPHANT TRANSIT HOME • UDAWALAWE SAFARI • UNAWATUNA

After breakfast, depart to Udawalawe, enjoying the scenic drive through Sri Lanka's southern countryside. Arrive at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home in time for the 10:30 feeding session, where orphaned elephant calves are cared for and rehabilitated before being released back into the wild. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting Jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, one of the best places in Sri Lanka to observe wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat. The park is also home to water buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles, jackals, peacocks and a remarkable variety of birdlife, making it a memorable wildlife experience. After the safari, continue your journey to the beautiful southern coast and Unawatuna. Check in at the 5-Star Araliya Beach Resort & Spa and relax after an adventurous day. Dinner at the Hotel

Day 13 | Thursday 02 September UDAWALAWE • GALLE FORT • BENTOTA

Enjoy a relaxed morning with free time to unwind at the beach or make use of the hotel's facilities after the previous day's exciting wildlife adventure and late arrival. After a leisurely breakfast, depart to Bentota along Sri Lanka's beautiful southern coastline. En route, visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through its charming, cobbled streets, admire the colonial architecture, browse boutique shops and cafés, and enjoy spectacular views of the Indian Ocean from the ancient ramparts. Continue along the coastal road, with a brief stop to observe the famous Sri Lankan Stilt Fishermen (subject to weather conditions and local availability) *, a unique and iconic tradition associated with the island's southern coast. Proceed to visit a Sea Turtle Conservation Hatchery, where you will learn about the protection and rehabilitation of endangered sea turtles. Continue to Bentota and check into the elegant 5-Star Rockwall Boutique Hotel. Dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast and proceed to the beautiful Madu River for an unforgettable Boat Safari through one of Sri Lanka's most important coastal wetlands. Cruise through the tranquil Mangrove Forests, exploring a network of winding waterways and small islands. Along the way, observe a variety of birdlife, monitor lizards, colourful butterflies and the unique flora and fauna. Then proceed to Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital. Upon arrival, Colombo City Tour guided exploring the city's fascinating blend of colonial heritage and modern development. Drive through the historic Fort and Pettah districts, Independence Square, admire the iconic Gangaramaya Temple, Old Parliament... Check in to the prestigious 5-Star the Kingsbury Colombo Hotel dinner at the hotel

Day 15 | Saturday 04 September COLOMBO AT LEISURE

Today is completely at leisure in Colombo. Enjoy a relaxing final day doing some shopping, discovering more of the city independently or simply unwind at the hotel. Colombo offers an excellent choice of shops, boutiques, cafés and restaurants, making it the perfect place to enjoy the final day of our Sri Lankan adventure.

Day 16 | Sunday 05 September COLOMBO • BANDARANAIKE INT. AIRPORT

Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for our return journey to Malta. TK1131 – Colombo to Istanbul, departing at 08:25 and arriving at 14:25 local time. TK1371 – Istanbul to Malta, departing at 17:00 and arriving in Malta at 18:35.

Price per person

Price includes

• Turkish Airlines flights Malta - Colombo - Malta

• All transfers and excursions as per programme

• Entrance fees included as per programme

• Hotels as per itinerary or similar

• Daily buffet Breakfast and Half Board

• Local guides during all excursions

• Airport Tax

• Maltese Tour Leader

• Insolvency Fund Protection

Mandatory tipping: €50 per person in total for Sri Lankan guides and drivers.

Visa required.