9 Days of Enchanting Sri Lanka: A Journey Through Nature, Culture, and Heritage

Arrive by flight and you will be transferred to the arrival terminal. Please clear immigration & visa formalities, collect your baggage and proceed to the arrival lounge through the green channel if you do not have goods to be declared to customs. You will meet one of the Representatives of Apple Vacations will assist you as he will be having a paging board with your name in the meeting area, and he will introduce you to your own English speaking chauffeur guide who will transfer you to the hotel. Experience the rich history of Colombo on a late afternoon sightseeing tour. As the business hub and former capital, the city showcases remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture. Explore the Fort area, once a military garrison, and wander through Pettah's bustling Bazaar, where you can admire the elaborate stone carvings of a Hindu temple. Don’t miss the iconic Kayman’s Gate, the 1749 Dutch Church of Wolfendhaal, and the serene Gangarama Temple, each reflecting the city’s vibrant heritage. Overnight stay in Colombo

After breakfast at the hotel transfer to Kandy, Approx. 3 hrs. drive Enroute visit Udawattakele Forest Udawattakele Forest Reserve, often referred to as Udawatta Kele, is a historic and ecologically significant forest reserve located on a hill-ridge in Kandy, Sri Lanka. Spanning 104 hectares (257 acres), the reserve played an important role during the Kandyan kingdom, where it was known as "Uda Wasala Watta," meaning "the garden above the royal palace." Today, it is celebrated for its rich biodiversity, particularly its avifauna, making it a haven for birdwatchers. The forest is home to numerous plant species, including towering lianas, shrubs, and small trees, contributing to the lush and dense vegetation that characterizes the area. Visitors may also encounter a variety of small and medium-sized mammals that are native to Sri Lanka, as well as several species of reptiles, including snakes. Giant lianas, in particular, are a remarkable feature of the forest. Udawattakele’s significance extends beyond its ecological value; it has been protected since 1856 when it was designated as a forest reserve, and in 1938, it was further classified as a sanctuary. This blend of natural beauty, historical importance, and wildlife diversity makes Udawattakele a vital and enchanting destination for nature lovers and history enthusiasts alike. Dinner & Overnight stay at the hotel

After enjoying an early breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Sigiriya, where you will have the opportunity to conquer the iconic Rock Fortress, with a driving time of approximately 1½ hours. Sigiriya, often referred to as the "Fortress in the Sky," is a remarkable 5th-century marvel on the island, towering nearly 500 feet high. Also known as Lion Rock, it was once guarded by a colossal lion statue at its entrance. The fortress is encircled by a triple-moated defense, showcasing advanced ancient engineering. Atop the rock lies the remnants of a lavish palace, complete with exquisite gardens and a swimming pool, offering a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of its former inhabitants. After exploring, embark on a scenic drive to Polonnaruwa, taking approximately 1½ hours to reach this ancient city. Polonnaruwa, the capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th centuries, boasts splendid statues and stunning shrine ruins, including the magnificent Lankatileke, Tivanka—home to the finest frescoes of the era—and Thuparama. Notably, the Gal Vihare rock shrine features four impressive Buddha statues—two seated, one standing, and one reclining—while the Parakrama Bahu statue showcases the artistry of Sinhalese stone carving. Overnight stay in Dambulla/Sigiriya OPTIONAL – CYCLING IN POLONNARUWA OPTIONAL – MONKEY PROGRAMME AT POLONNARUWA OPTIONAL – LORIS WATCHING AT JETWING VIL UYANA

After breakfast, embark on a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a remarkable site dating back to the First Century B.C. This UNESCO World Heritage site served as a refuge for King Walagamba during his 14 years of exile from Anuradhapura. Upon regaining his throne, he commissioned the magnificent Rock Temple, a stunning testament to Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage. The first cave features a 47-foot-long recumbent Buddha, intricately carved from the rock, surrounded by images of Buddhist deities. The walls and ceiling are adorned with vibrant frescoes, showcasing the artistry of the Kandy period, although they reflect older styles. The second cave, the largest and most impressive, houses 150 life-size Buddha statues in various postures, alongside depictions of gods and kings, creating a breathtaking atmosphere that encapsulates the spiritual essence of Buddhism. This visit offers a unique glimpse into the island’s historical and religious significance Afterward, embark on a scenic drive to Matale, where you'll visit a vibrant Spice Garden along the way. The journey takes approximately 1½ hours, allowing you to soak in the beautiful landscapes as you travel. Begin your journey at the Spice Garden in Matale, where you'll explore vibrant plantations of cinnamon, cardamom, and pepper, each with its unique history and culinary uses. After this aromatic experience, continue your scenic drive to Kandy, taking in the lush landscapes along the way. Upon arrival, immerse yourself in Kandy's rich heritage with a city tour, visiting the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide. Stroll around the picturesque Upper Lake Drive and the bustling Market Square, and don’t miss the Gem Lapidary, showcasing Sri Lanka’s famed gemstones. As evening falls, enjoy a captivating Cultural Dance Show, highlighting the diverse dance forms of Sri Lanka. This blend of nature, culture, and history makes for an unforgettable day in the enchanting hill capital of Kandy. Overnight stay in hotel

After breakfast, explore the enchanting Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, a sprawling 60-hectare site once reserved for royalty. Marvel at its impressive collection of orchids and the majestic avenue of royal palms planted in 1905. Following this botanical delight, you'll be transferred to Nuwara Eliya. Along the way, consider stopping at a tea factory to learn about Sri Lanka’s famed tea production or enjoy a leisurely stroll through the charming town, soaking in its unique colonial atmosphere. Nuwara Eliya, often dubbed the "Little England" of Sri Lanka, boasts stunning views of mountains, valleys, waterfalls, and lush tea plantations. Renowned for its cooler climate, it offers a refreshing atmosphere reminiscent of an English spring day, though nights can be quite chilly. The town's architecture reflects its British colonial heritage, with charming country cottages and elegant Queen Anne-style mansions dotting the landscape. This unique blend of natural beauty and colonial influence creates a captivating ambiance that enchants every visitor. Overnight stay at the hotel in Nuwara Eliya

After a packed breakfast, set off for Horton Plains National Park, accessible via a shuttle service from your Nuwara Eliya hotel. Known as the coldest and windiest location in Sri Lanka, this breathtaking park features wild grasslands dotted with thick forests, rocky outcrops, and picturesque waterfalls. As you trek through this diverse landscape, you'll encounter an array of wildlife unique to the region. A highlight is "World's End," a dramatic sheer cliff offering a stunning drop of about 4,000 feet (1,200 meters), making it one of the park's most popular attractions. The beauty and tranquility of Horton Plains promise an unforgettable experience. Be prepared for your trek in Horton Plains National Park by wearing leech socks, which are the most effective way to prevent leech bites while hiking. To enhance your protection, consider applying Siddhalepa, a local Ayurvedic pain relief balm, and Salonpas spray over your socks. After enjoying the stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife of the park, you’ll embark on a scenic drive to Kalawana, which will take approximately 5 and a half hours. This journey offers beautiful views of the Sri Lankan countryside, making for a memorable transition to your next destination. Overnight stay in kalawana

Start your day with a packed breakfast before embarking on a morning trek through the enchanting Sinharaja Rain Forest, located in southwest Sri Lanka. As the country’s last viable area of primary tropical rainforest, Sinharaja is home to over 60% endemic trees, many of which are rare. The forest boasts a rich diversity of wildlife, including more than half of Sri Lanka's endemic mammals and butterflies, along with a variety of reptiles and rare amphibians. After your trek, you'll transfer to Galle, a journey of approximately 2 and a half hours, where you can unwind and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Galle Please note that leeches are present in Horton Plains National Park, so wearing leech socks is the most effective way to prevent bites while hiking. Applying Siddhalepa, a local Ayurvedic pain relief balm, and Salonpas spray over your socks can further enhance protection.

After breakfast, delve into the historic Dutch Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the oldest landmark in Galle, the South Coast's major city. This impressive fortification, originally built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch in 1663, encompasses a 90-acre area that showcases the city’s rich heritage. Scholars suggest that Galle may even be the legendary "Tarshish" from the Old Testament, where King Solomon's merchant vessels set sail. Today, the fort reflects Dutch ingenuity, featuring a sophisticated drainage system complete with brick-lined underground sewers that were flushed by tidal movements. As you explore, you’ll encounter the original harbor gate adorned with the British coat of arms on one side and the Dutch V.O.C. emblem, featuring a rooster crest, on the other. After soaking in the history and charm of Galle, you’ll transfer to Negombo, a journey of approximately three hours, where you can relax by the coast. Overnight stay in Negombo

After breakfast you will be transferred back to airport for your flight back home