Essence of Ceylon

After arriving at the airport, the tour begins with a transfer to Anuradhapura. This ancient city was the first capital of Sri Lanka and served as an important religious and political center for over a thousand years. Mhintale, a nearby mountain peak, is also a must-see. It is considered the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and is home to several ancient ruins, including a huge dagoba (Buddhist stupa). For those experienced in long-haul flights, we suggest visiting the Yapahuwa Fortress, a steep staircase leading to the top of a rock where a royal stronghold was located.

We start the second day by visiting Anuradhapura (UNESCO). This city is home to several ancient monuments, including temples, palaces and stupas, all of which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. One of the main attractions of the tour is the Issurumunia temple, famous for its ancient rock carvings. Later, the tour moves to the eastern coast of the island to the peaceful Nilaveli Beach, known for its clear waters and white sand.

Nilaveli is a beautiful beach on the eastern coast of Sri Lanka, known for one of the most beautiful coral reefs in the world. The Nilaveli coral reef is a unique marine ecosystem that offers great opportunities for diving and snorkeling enthusiasts.

The Nilaveli coral reef is home to many species of colorful fish, sea turtles, dolphins and even sharks. While immersing yourself in the reef waters, you can admire sponges, mollusks, hard and soft corals and various species of corals that create beautiful formations and colorful underwater landscapes. The Nilaveli Coral Reef is also an ideal place for ecotourism enthusiasts who want to experience the richness and diversity of marine ecosystems. Local guides offer reef tours where you can admire the beauty of the reef and learn about its protection and conservation. It is also worth noting that the Nilaveli coral reef is one of the most important sources of income for the local community, many of whom work in the diving and snorkeling tourism industry. Therefore, protecting the Nilaveli coral reef is not only a matter of preserving the natural beauty, but also of maintaining the sustainable development of the local community.

This day is intended for relaxation and rest. Guests have the opportunity to try diving, snorkeling or exploring the beautiful Pigeon Island Marine National Park. The island is home to many exotic species of marine life, including colorful corals, reef fish and sea turtles.

The tour moves to Trincomalee, a port city on the east coast, home to historic Fort Frederic. The fort was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century and later conquered by the Dutch. After visiting the fort, proceeded to Sigiriya to capture King Kassyapa’s stronghold. In the afternoon, a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, where the largest herds of Asian elephants on earth can be observed. Other animals include Indian sambar, deer, wild buffalos, water buffalos, crocodiles, waterfowl as well as impressive peacocks.

The day begins with a climb to the top of Sigiriya Fortress (UNESCO), an ancient citadel perched on a massive rock. The fortress was built on top of a rock in the 5th century AD and served as a royal residence for a short period. After the visit, the tour moves to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, where the famous Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth) is located.

The next day, the tour will take you to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, one of the oldest and most extensive botanical gardens in Asia. The garden is home to over 4,000 species of plants and trees, including some rare and exotic species. The tour then moves on to the tea plantation and tea factory in Ramboda, where guests can experience the tea making process, taste freshly brewed tea and admire the scenic views of the mountains.

The day begins with a tour of Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque town nestled among lush green tea plantations. Guests can explore the city’s colonial-era architecture and visit several tea factories and estates. The highlight of the day is a journey on the Odyssey, a modern train that takes guests on a scenic ride through tea plantations and waterfalls to Ella.

Day eight of the tour takes guests to the 9 Arch Bridge, a popular landmark located in the picturesque town of Ella. The bridge is an architectural marvel built during the British colonial era and offers stunning views of the surrounding hills and tea plantations. Little Adam’s Peak, another popular attraction in Ella, is a small mountain that offers panoramic views of the town and the surrounding hills.

Check out from the hotel in Ella and transfer to any beach on the southwest coast. On the way visit the Rawana Falls, located on the road leading to the West Coast or southern Ceylon