Waves & Wilderness of Sri Lanka
Overview
Embark on a captivating adventure across Sri Lanka, where the rhythmic waves of the Indian Ocean meet the raw beauty of the
island’s lush wilderness. Waves & Wilderness of Ceylon blends serene coastal escapes with heart-pounding wildlife encounters,
offering a perfectly balanced experience for nature lovers, thrill seekers, and cultural explorers alike.
Day 1 | Sigiriya
Minneriya National Park Game Drive Sri Lanka
Kassapa Lions Rock 3.00 14:00 - 11:00 Kimbissa
Transfer by car
Airport to Sigiriya (Approx. 3hr30m drive)
- Arrival and transfer to Sigiriya
- Check in, late afternoon Minneriya national Park Game Drive.
- Welcome Dinner & Overnight
Minneriya National Park Game Drive
Minneriya National Park is a popular wildlife sanctuary located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It was declared a national park in 1997 and covers an area of approximately 8,889 hectares. The park is home to a variety of flora and fauna, including elephants, leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, and many species of birds.
One of the main attractions at Minneriya National Park is the annual
gathering of wild elephants known as "The Gathering." This occurs during the dry season (July-September) when hundreds of elephants migrate to the park's central lake in search for water and food. It is considered one of the largest gatherings of Asian elephants in the world.
Apart from elephant sightings, visitors can also enjoy jeep safaris through the park to spot other animals such as leopards and
sloth bears. The park also has several ancient ruins dating back to the Anuradhapura Kingdom that can be explored on foot or by
bicycle.
In addition to its diverse wildlife population, Minneriya National Park also boasts beautiful landscapes with grasslands,
wetlands, forests, and rocky outcrops. Visitors can take guided nature walks or birdwatching tours to appreciate these natural
wonders. Overall, Minneriya National Park offers a unique opportunity for visitors to experience Sri Lanka's rich biodiversity up close
while enjoying stunning scenery.
Day 2 | Sigiriya
- Sigiriya Rock Sigiriya
- Village Visit - Hiriwaduna Hiriwadunna
- Polonnaruwa Sudarshanarama Puranagama Rd
- Transfer by car
- Kassapa Lions Rock 3.00 14:00 - 11:00 Kimbissa
Sigiriya Rock
Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in the central Matale District of Sri Lanka. It was built by King Kasyapa I in the 5th century AD and served as his capital for over 18 years.The fortress is situated on top of a massive column of rock, rising 200 meters above the surrounding plains. The site includes a series of moats, gardens, and defensive structures that were designed to protect the royal palace at its summit.
One of the most impressive features of Sigiriya is its frescoes, which cover a large portion of the western face of the rock. These paintings depict beautiful female figures believed to be either celestial nymphs or portraits of King Kasyapa's concubines.
Atop the summit lies ruins from what was once a grand palace complex with intricate water gardens and pavilions. The views from this vantage point are breathtaking, offering panoramic vistas over miles upon miles of lush greenery.
Today, Sigiriya is recognized as one of Sri Lanka's eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and remains one of its most popular tourist attractions. Visitors can climb up to explore this ancient marvel and learn about its fascinating history through guided
Village Visit - Hiriwaduna
Hiriwaduna is a small village located in the North Central Province of Sri Lanka. It is situated close to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress and
Dambulla Cave Temple, making it an ideal stop for tourists visiting these popular attractions. The Hiriwaduna village tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience traditional rural life in Sri Lanka. The tour starts with a bullock cart ride through the village, giving you a glimpse of the beautiful paddy fields and lush greenery that surrounds the area.
Next, you will take part in some traditional activities such as fishing in a nearby lake using traditional methods, or participating in farming activities like plowing or harvesting depending on the season. You can also try your hand at cooking local dishes with ingredients freshly picked from the garden.
One of the highlights of this tour is a walk through the jungle where you can spot various species of birds and other wildlife. You will also have the chance to visit a local temple and learn about Buddhism from one of its resident monks.
The tour ends with a delicious lunch served on lotus leaves followed by an optional catamaran ride on Hiriwaduna Lake. This
tranquil boat ride allows you to soak up more stunning views while enjoying some refreshments.
Overall, Hiriwaduna village tour provides an authentic cultural experience for travelers looking to immerse themselves in Sri Lankan rural life. It is recommended for those who want to get away from busy tourist areas and explore off-the-beaten-path destinations.
Polonnaruwa
Polonnaruwa is the second largest city in North Central Province, but it is known as one of the most beautiful and well-preserved ancient cities in Sri Lanka. It was once the capital of Sri Lanka from 1070 to 1200 AD during the reign of King Vijayabahu I and King Parakramabahu I. The city is home to many ancient ruins, including palaces, temples, and other structures that showcase the rich history and culture of Sri Lanka. The most famous attraction in Polonnaruwa is the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from its historical significance, Polonnaruwa also boasts stunning natural landscapes such as lakes, rivers, and wildlife reserves. Visitors can also enjoy activities like cycling tours around the ancient city or taking a boat ride on Parakrama Samudra Lake. Overall, Polonnaruwa offers a unique blend of history and nature that makes it a must-visit destination for travelers exploring Sri Lanka.
Day 3 | Kandy
- Dambulla Cave Temple Kandy - Jaffna Hwy
- Matale Spice Garden Habarana Trinco Road Inamaluwa
- Senani Hotel by Oakray 3.50 14:00 - 11:00 167/1 Rajapihilla Mawatha
- Transfer by car
Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the central part of Sri Lanka. It is also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla and is one of the best-preserved cave temple complexes in South Asia.
The temple complex consists of five main caves, each containing statues and paintings related to Buddhism. The walls and ceilings are adorned with colorful frescoes depicting scenes from Buddha's life and teachings, as well as other important figures in Buddhist history.
The largest cave, known as the Maharaja Vihara or "Cave of the Great Kings," contains over 50 Buddha statues along with
several large reclining Buddhas. The second cave, called Maha Alut Vihara or "New Great Temple," features a giant standing
Buddha statue carved into the rock face.
Visitors can also see numerous shrines dedicated to Hindu gods within the complex, showcasing Sri Lanka's religious diversity.
Outside the caves, there are beautiful gardens and ponds that add to the serene atmosphere of this sacred site.
Dambulla Cave Temple has been an important pilgrimage site for Buddhists for over 2,000 years. It was first established by
King Valagamba in the 1st century BC when he sought refuge from his enemies during a war. Over time, subsequent kings added
more structures and embellishments to make it what it is today.
To visit Dambulla Cave Temple, visitors must climb up a series of steps leading to its entrance on top of a hill. The climb may be challenging for some but offers stunning views of surrounding landscapes along with glimpses into local village life.
Overall, Dambulla Cave Temple is not only an architectural marvel but also holds great cultural significance making it a must-
visit destination in Sri Lanka.
Matale Spice Garden
Matale Spice Garden is a spice garden located in Matale, Sri Lanka. It is known for its wide variety of spices and herbs that are grown on the premises.
The garden was established in 1990 by Mr. Piyasena Gamage, who wanted to showcase the rich diversity of Sri Lankan spices to visitors from around the world. The garden covers an area of over 15 acres and is home to more than 100 different types of plants including cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, cloves, pepper, vanilla and many others.
Visitors can take a guided tour through the gardens where they will learn about each plant's medicinal properties as well as how they are used in cooking. They can also see how these spices are harvested and processed before being sold.
One of the highlights of visiting Matale Spice Garden is getting to taste some traditional Sri Lankan dishes made with fresh
spices from the garden. Visitors can also purchase a variety of products such as essential oils, herbal teas, and natural beauty products made using ingredients from the garden.
Overall, Matale Spice Garden offers a unique experience for those interested in learning about Sri Lankan culture and its use of spices. It is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Matale or nearby cities like Kandy or Dambulla.
Day 4 | Kandy
- Udawatta Kele Trekking Sangamitta Mawatha
- Ambuluwawa Tower Ambuluwaawa ICC Road
- Kandy Temple Kandy
- Senani Hotel by Oakray 3.50 14:00 - 11:00 167/1 Rajapihilla Mawatha
- Transfer by car
Udawatta Kele Trekking
Udawatta Kele Sanctuary is a beautiful nature reserve located in the heart of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is a popular destination for trekking and hiking due to its diverse flora and fauna, as well as its stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The trek through Udawatta Kele begins at the entrance near the Temple of Tooth Relic. From there, you will follow a well-marked trail that winds through dense forests, past streams and waterfalls, and up steep hills.
Along the way, you will encounter various species of birds, butterflies, monkeys, and other wildlife. The sanctuary is also home to many rare plants and trees such as orchids and giant bamboo.
As you reach higher elevations on your trek, you will be rewarded with breathtaking views of Kandy city below. You can also
visit some ancient Buddhist temples hidden within the forest.
The entire trek takes about 2-3 hours depending on your pace. It is recommended to go early in the morning or late afternoon
when it's cooler and there are fewer crowds.
Make sure to wear comfortable shoes suitable for hiking and bring plenty of water with you. A local guide can also accompany
you on your trek for an additional fee if desired.
Overall, Udwatta Kele offers a peaceful escape from bustling city life where you can immerse yourself in nature while getting
some exercise at the same time.
Kandy Temple
Kandy is a major city in Sri Lanka located in the Central Province. It is considered one of the most sacred cities in the country and is home to many important Buddhist temples, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa).
The Temple of the Tooth Relic, also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the most revered places for Buddhists around the world. It houses a tooth relic believed to be from Buddha himself and attracts thousands of pilgrims every year.
Apart from this temple, Kandy also has other notable temples such as Gadaladeniya Viharaya, Lankatilaka Vihara, Embekke
Devalaya, and Degaldoruwa Raja Maha Viharaya.
In addition to its religious significance, Kandy is also known for its scenic beauty with lush green hills surrounding it. The city also hosts an annual festival called Esala Perahera where a grand procession takes place to honor the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Overall, Kandy's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty make it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Sri Lanka.
Ambuluwawa Tower
Ambuluwawa is a hill situated in Gampola, Sri Lanka. It is approximately 3568 feet above sea level and has become a popular tourist attraction due to the Ambuluwawa Tower located at its peak.
The Ambuluwawa Tower, also known as the "Tower of Knowledge," was built in 2010 and stands at a height of 48 meters. It is designed to resemble a Buddhist stupa (a dome-shaped structure used for meditation) and features intricate carvings and paintings depicting Buddhist teachings.
Visitors can climb up the tower through a spiral staircase to reach the top, where they can enjoy panoramic views of the
surrounding hills and valleys. The tower also houses a small museum showcasing artifacts related to Buddhism.
Apart from the tower, there are several other attractions on Ambuluwawa Hill including an amphitheater, meditation center,
children's park, and botanical gardens with various species of plants and trees.
The hill is considered sacred by Buddhists as it is believed that Lord Buddha visited this area during his third visit to Sri Lanka.Therefore, many pilgrims also visit Ambuluwawa for religious purposes.
Overall, Ambuluwawa offers visitors not only stunning views but also an opportunity to learn about Buddhism while being
surrounded by nature.
Day 5 | Ella
- Scenic Train Journey WPRV+VG5
- Nine Arch Bridge V3G6+M9M
- Ella Flower Garden Resort 3.50 14:00 - 11:00 passara rd
Scenic Train Journey
The train journey from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is considered one of the most scenic train rides in Sri Lanka. The 3-hour journey takes you through breathtaking landscapes, lush green tea plantations, and misty mountains.
The train departs from Nanu Oya station in Nuwara Eliya and travels through the heart of the hill country towards Ella. As the train chugs along, you will pass by picturesque villages, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys.
One of the highlights of this journey is passing through the famous Nine Arch Bridge near Demodara station. This iconic bridge
was built during British colonial rule and offers stunning views as the train passes over it.
As you approach Ella station, you will be treated to panoramic views of rolling hills covered in tea bushes. The cool mountain air and serene surroundings make this a truly unforgettable experience.
Overall, taking the scenic train ride from Nuwara Eliya to Ella is an absolute must-do when visiting Sri Lanka. It's an incredible way to experience the beauty of this country's hill country region while also getting a taste of local life along the way.
Nine Arch Bridge
The Nine Arch Bridge, also known as the Demodara Loop or the Bridge in the Sky, is a famous railway bridge located in Ella, Sri Lanka. It is one of the most iconic and picturesque landmarks in the country.
The bridge was built during British colonial rule in 1921 by local workers using only bricks, stones and cement without any steel support. The unique design of nine arches gives it a stunning appearance and makes it stand out among other bridges.
The bridge is situated between Ella and Demodara railway stations on the Colombo-Badulla line. Trains passing through this
route have to make a sharp turn at this point to continue their journey towards Badulla. This creates an illusion that trains are going around a loop when viewed from certain angles.Visitors can walk along the tracks on either side of the bridge to get a closer look at its architecture and enjoy breathtaking views of surrounding mountains covered with lush greenery. The best time to visit is early morning or late afternoon when there are fewer crowds and better lighting for photography.
The Nine Arch Bridge has become a popular tourist attraction over recent years due to its scenic beauty and historical
significance. It has also been featured in many movies, documentaries, and travel shows which have further increased its
popularity among tourists.
In addition to being an engineering marvel, this bridge holds cultural importance for locals as it connects two villages divided by a deep valley. It serves as an important mode of transportation for villagers who use it daily to commute between towns.
Overall, visiting Nine Arch Bridge should be on every traveler's itinerary while exploring Sri Lanka's beautiful hill country region.Its magnificent structure combined with stunning natural surroundings makes it an unforgettable experience for all visitors.
Day 6 | Ella - Passara Road
- Flying Ravana Adventure Camp Ella - Passara Rd
- Little Adam's Peak Trekking A23
- Transfer by car
- Ella Flower Garden Resort 3.50 14:00 - 11:00 passara rd
Flying Ravana Adventure Camp
Flying Ravana Adventure Park is a popular adventure park located in Ella, Sri Lanka. It offers a variety of thrilling activities such as ziplining, rappelling, and rock climbing.The main attraction at Flying Ravana Adventure Park is the zipline experience. The park boasts the longest zipline in Asia, measuring 1 kilometer in length. Visitors can soar through
the air at speeds of up to 80 km/h while taking in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and forests.
In addition to ziplining, visitors can also try their hand at rappelling down a 300-meter cliff face or test their strength and agility on the park's rock climbing wall.
For those looking for a more relaxed experience, there are also nature walks and bird watching opportunities available within
the park.
Flying Ravana Adventure Park is suitable for all ages and skill levels, with trained instructors on hand to guide visitors through each activity. Safety equipment is provided for all activities.
Overall, Flying Ravana Adventure Park offers an exciting day out for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. With its stunning
location and adrenaline-pumping activities, it's no wonder that this adventure park has become a must-visit destination in Ella.
Day 7 | Tangalle
Buckingham Place 4.50 Rekawa Beach Road Netolpitiya
Transfer by car
Day 8 | Tangalle
Buckingham Place 4.50 Rekawa Beach Road Netolpitiya
Transfer by car
Day 9 | Tangalle
Buckingham Place 4.50 Rekawa Beach Road Netolpitiya
Transfer by car
Day 10 | Tangalle
Buckingham Place 4.50 Rekawa Beach Road Netolpitiya
Transfer by car
Day 11 | Canada Friendship Rd
Included/Excluded
- Day 1, 2 - Accommodation - Kassapa Lions Rock
- Day 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 - Transportation - Transfer by car
- Day 3 - Activity - Matale Spice Garden
- Day 3, 4 - Accommodation - Senani Hotel by Oakray
- Day 4 - Activity - Ambuluwawa Tower
- Day 5 - Activity - Nine Arch Bridge
- Day 5, 6 - Accommodation - Ella Flower Garden Resort
- Day 7, 8, 9, 10 - Accommodation - Buckingham Place
- Complimentary head, neck and shoulder massage for 10 minutes at Matale spice garden followed by lunch.
- HB Basis (Breakfast and Dinner)
- Camera & Video permits at Cultural sights All expenses of personal nature Any additional equipment or site visit which are not mentioned in the tour program. Alcoholic beverages Laundry and dry cleaning Meals whereever not applicable
- Visa Fee