Sri Lanka in 15 Days A Tour of Nature History and Adventure (Abiram)

Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be transferred to the arrival terminal, where you will clear immigration and visa formalities, collect your baggage, and proceed through customs. A representative from apple vacations will greet you at the meeting area and introduce your German-speaking chauffeur guide, who will escort you to Negombo, known for its Christian churches and colonial architecture. This former fishing village has transformed into a popular beach resort just 20 minutes from the airport. After a day of exploration, relax with a rejuvenating 40-minute couple’s massage to refresh your mind, body, and soul. In the evening, enjoy a romantic candlelight dinner by the lagoon or ocean, creating the perfect end to a memorable day. OPTIONAL – LAGOON BOAT RIDE Dinner & 0vernight stay in Negombo

After a leisurely breakfast, clients will depart for Dambulla/Sigiriya, with a drive time of approximately 4 ½ hours. In the late afternoon, they will visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a renowned Rock Temple dating back to the First Century B.C. These caves once sheltered King Walagamba during his 14 years of exile. Upon reclaiming his throne, he built this magnificent temple. The first cave houses a 47-foot-long recumbent Buddha statue carved from the rock, surrounded by deity images. The frescoes on the walls and ceilings, though from different periods, remain remarkable. The second cave, the largest and most impressive, contains 150 life-sized Buddha statues in various postures, along with statues of gods and kings. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Dambulla

After breakfast, head to Polonnaruwa, the second capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century, renowned for its impressive statues. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage City on a cycling tour, covering about 10 kilometers between the ancient ruins. Highlights include Lankatileke, Tivanka, and Thuparama, with Tivanka’s frescoes being the finest from this era. Don’t miss the Gal Vihare rock shrine with its four Buddha statues and the statue of King Parakramabahu. In the late afternoon, enjoy a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park, known for its large elephant gatherings. The park also hosts diverse wildlife, including buffalo, deer, crocodiles, and over 160 bird species, making it a haven for nature lovers. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Dambulla

After an early breakfast, embark on a 30-minute drive to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site known as the "Fortress in the Sky." Rising 500 feet, this incredible structure features a massive lion statue at its entrance. Sigiriya showcases a remarkable blend of urban planning, water engineering, horticulture, and art, with the remnants of a ruined palace, extensive fortifications, gardens, ponds, canals, alleys, and fountains. Notable highlights include the Mirror Wall, adorned with inscriptions and poems, and exquisite frescoes celebrating female beauty. After exploring Sigiriya, continue your journey to Kandy, approximately 2.5 hours away, where you'll visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, a sacred site for Buddhists, allowing visitors to offer flowers and light oil lamps in a serene atmosphere. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Kandy

After breakfast, visit the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya, a sprawling 60-hectare park on the outskirts of Kandy. Originally a royal park before British colonization, it is now the largest botanical garden in Sri Lanka, showcasing a stunning collection of orchids and a majestic avenue of royal palms planted in 1905. In the late afternoon, embark on a sightseeing tour of Kandy by TUK TUK, stopping at notable attractions like Upper Lake Drive, Market Square, and a gem lapidary. Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, was the last bastion of the Sinhalese kings during colonial rule, becoming a vibrant hub of Buddhism, arts, crafts, and culture, with the serene Kiri Samudraya Island at its heart. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Kandy

After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic 2½-hour drive to Nuwara Eliya, renowned for its stunning tea plantations. Along the way, indulge in a tea tasting session, where you'll learn about the creation of different blends and flavors from the famous Ceylon Tea leaves. Upon arrival, explore Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as 'Little England' for its charming English-style cottages and mansions set against breathtaking mountains, valleys, and waterfalls. The cool climate, reminiscent of an English spring day, invites you to enjoy a delightful evening high tea. Sip on a steaming cup of Ceylon tea accompanied by fresh snacks, allowing you to unwind and reflect on the day's enchanting experiences in this picturesque setting. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, you'll embark on a scenic 30-minute drive to Nanu Oya Railway Station, where you'll board the train bound for Ella. Enjoy a breathtaking journey in the observation carriage, with the train winding through lush mountains and picturesque tea country. Capture the stunning views as you travel, creating unforgettable memories. Upon arrival in Ella, you'll meet your guide and check in to your hotel. Later in the afternoon, prepare for an exhilarating experience on Sri Lanka's first mega dual zip-line, Flying Ravana, located near Little Adam's Peak. Soar over half a kilometer at speeds up to 80 km/h, taking in spectacular bird's-eye views of the surrounding hills. Harness and safety equipment will be provided for a safe and thrilling adventure. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Ella

In the early morning, embark on a scenic hike to Little Adam’s Peak, a pyramid-shaped mountain standing at 1,141 meters, offering breathtaking panoramic views. The trek through lush green tea plantations and cascading waterfalls is particularly enchanting in the morning when clouds roll in, showcasing Sri Lanka's stunning natural beauty. Afterward, enjoy a 2.5-hour drive to Yala National Park, where you'll experience a late afternoon safari. Spanning 126,786 hectares, including the Strict Natural Reserve, Yala is renowned for its diverse wildlife, featuring large herds of elephants, leopards, spotted deer, crocodiles, and over 130 bird species. This day promises a captivating blend of adventure and nature, highlighting the richness of Sri Lanka's tourism. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Yala

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Galle, with an approximate travel time of three hours. En route, witness the captivating Stilt Fishermen in Weligama, a mesmerizing traditional fishing method unique to Sri Lanka, where fishermen balance on stilts to catch fish. Arriving in Galle, spend the late afternoon exploring the historic Dutch Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This fort, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch, is a testament to Galle's rich history, with some scholars suggesting it may be the biblical "Tarshish." Marvel at the fort's impressive architecture, including its original harbor gate adorned with the British Coat of Arms and the Dutch V.O.C., showcasing a blend of cultural influences throughout the centuries. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Galle

After a leisurely breakfast, you will embark on an exclusive cooking demonstration program at Jetwing Lighthouse, curated by the renowned executive chef Mr. Nihal Senanyake. Your culinary journey begins with a pick-up at 9:30 AM, taking you to a local market where you will select fresh vegetables and fish. Upon returning to the hotel, you’ll engage in the cooking demonstration, immersing yourself in the preparation of authentic dishes under the chef’s guidance. Finally, the moment you've been eagerly anticipating arrives: savoring the delectable creations you helped make! After this delightful experience, you will be dropped off at the beach resort, where you can unwind and enjoy a relaxing beach holiday, with a scenic drive to the airport taking approximately two hours. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Bentota

Start your day with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before embarking on an optional whale and dolphin watching excursion in Mirissa. Afterward, spend the entire day relaxing on the beautiful beach, soaking in the sun and enjoying the serene atmosphere. In the evening, savor a delightful dinner and enjoy an overnight stay in the charming coastal town of Bentota. Dinner & 0vernight stay in Bentota

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then relax by the beach all day. Dinner and overnight stay in Bentota await you.

After breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your flight home, with an approximate driving time of 2 hours from Bentota.