Mystical North & East Sri Lanka Culture, Coasts, and Legacy

Mystical North & East
Sri Lanka Culture, Coasts, and Legacy

Embark on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s unexplored North and East, where ancient history, vibrant culture, and pristine natural beauty converge. This carefully curated tour invites you to discover UNESCO World Heritage sites like Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, immerse yourself in the rich traditions of Jaffna, and unwind on the tranquil beaches of Nilaveli and Bentota. Along the way, experience the warmth of local communities, the thrill of wildlife safaris, and the serenity of Ayurvedic spa treatments, creating memories that blend adventure with relaxation.

This itinerary offers a harmonious balance of cultural exploration and scenic tranquility, taking you beyond the typical tourist path to uncover Sri Lanka’s hidden gems. With knowledgeable guides, comfortable accommodations, and a focus on sustainable travel, you’ll engage deeply with the island’s history, spirituality, and natural wonders. From ancient temples and vibrant markets to coral-rich waters and lush botanical gardens, this trip showcases the diverse tapestry that makes Sri Lanka a truly unique destination.

Tour Overview

Duration: 09 Nights/ 10 Days

Start: Colombo

End: Colombo

Arival and Departure Transfers: Provided

Tour Guide: Provided

Meals Included: All 3 Meals

Hotel Rating: 4 Star or Above

Way of transport

Tour Highlights

Guided tour of the sacred city of Anuradhapura, featuring ancient stupas and the revered Bodhi Tree.
Cultural immersion and heritage experiences in Jaffna, including visits to Nallur Temple, Jaffna Fort, and vibrant local markets.
Exploration of offshore islands such as Nagadeepa and Delft, with unique wildlife and colonial history.
Beachfront relaxation and snorkeling adventures at Nilaveli and Pigeon Island National Park.
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, for breathtaking panoramic views.
Jeep safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, renowned for its elephant gatherings and birdlife.
Spiritual visits to Dambulla Cave Temples and Koneswaram Temple.
Scenic drives through rural villages, spice gardens, and lush tea plantations.
Engaging village tours, traditional Sri Lankan cooking classes, and authentic home-cooked meals.
Cultural encounters in Kandy, including the Temple of the Tooth Relic, botanical gardens, and a traditional dance performance.
Riverside boat safari on Bentota’s Madhu River and conservation visit to a turtle hatchery.
Opportunities for water sports and beach leisure in Bentota.
Dedicated private guide and comfortable transport, ensuring a seamless and enriching journey throughout Sri Lanka’s north and east.

Included

All Meals
15 nights 4-5 star hotels and heritage properties
Guided sightseeing - Dambulla, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe, Kandy, Yala, Bundala and Colombo
3 Jeep safari/game drives in Udawalawe NP, Yala NP and Bundala NP
Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, canoe and Tuk Tuk trips
Escorted by an English-speaking national guide for groups of 6 or more (professional chauffeur guide for groups of 5 or less)
Whale and dolphin watching boat cruise in Mirissa (01 Nov-30 April, approx $35pp to pay locally). Visit to the Dutch Fort at Galle (01 May-31 Oct)
Airport arrival and departure transfer on days 1 and 10
All relevant transfers and transportation in private air-conditioned tourism vehicles
Highway Tolls
Parking Fees on sites

Not Included

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival: Negombo & Chilaw

Airport pickup and transfer to Negombo.
Check-in to beachfront hotel.
Evening: Stroll along Negombo Beach; unwind after travel. Explore Negombo’s bustling fish market and lively canal-side streets.
Dinner: Fresh seafood at a beachfront restaurant.
Optional: Brief cultural introduction to Sri Lanka by your guide.

Day 2: Negombo to Anuradhapura (via Chilaw)

Morning: Breakfast, then depart for Anuradhapura.
En route: Stop at Munneswaram Hindu Temple in Chilaw – one of Sri Lanka’s holiest ancient shrines.
Lunch: Local curry house in Chilaw.
Afternoon: Arrive and check in at your Anuradhapura hotel.
Evening: Sunset walk among the ancient stupas (Thuparamaya, Ruwanwelisaya).
Overnight: Anuradhapura.

Day 3: Ancient Anuradhapura

Morning: Cycle or tuk-tuk tour to the Sacred Bodhi Tree, Jetavanarama Monastery, and ancient bathing ponds.
Midday: Guided visit of Isurumuniya Rock Temple and royal pleasure gardens.
Afternoon: Local lunch, then time for a traditional village experience—learn pottery or palm weaving.
Evening: Optional meditation session with a resident monk..

Day 4: Anuradhapura to Jaffna

Morning: Early breakfast and scenic drive to Jaffna.
En route: Visit Mihintale, the cradle of Sri Lankan Buddhism.
Lunch: Local eatery in Vavuniya.
Afternoon: Arrive in Jaffna and check in.
Evening: Stroll through colorful Jaffna Market and taste signature Tamil snacks.

Day 5: Jaffna Cultural Exploration

Full-day tour:
Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil (landmark Hindu temple).
Jaffna Fort (learn about Dutch/Portuguese history).
Library & heritage museum.
Lunch at a renowned local for authentic Jaffna crab curry.
Keerimalai Sacred Water Springs (dip if desired).
Casuarina Beach relaxation. Evening: Visit to Mantri Manai (minister’s house) for architectural intrigue. Optional: Evening puja (ritual) at Nallur Temple.

Day 6: Islands & Northern Adventure

Morning: Boat trip to Nagadeepa Island (Buddhist and Hindu sacred sites).
Noon: Explore Delft Island by jeep—feral horses, coral walls, and colonial ruins.
Lunch: Picnic on Delft Island.
Afternoon: Return and visit Point Pedro, the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka.
Evening: Return to Jaffna for rest.

Day 7: Jaffna to Nilaveli/Trincomalee

Morning: Scenic drive to Trincomalee/Nilaveli, with stops at Elephant Pass war memorial.
Afternoon: Check in to beach resort.
Evening: Sunset at Nilaveli Beach.

Day 8: Nilaveli & Pigeon Island

Morning: Boat transfer to Pigeon Island National Park.
Guided snorkeling tour: vibrant coral reefs and marine life.
Beach relaxation.
Afternoon: Return for seafood lunch by the shore.
Late afternoon: Visit hot water wells of Kanniya and Buddhist temples nearby.
Evening: Enjoy spa or ayurveda treatment at the resort.

Day 9: Trincomalee: History & Culture

Morning: Visit Koneswaram Temple (dramatic cliff-top Hindu temple, iconic views).
Optional: Whale-watching tour (peak season: May–September).
Afternoon: Explore the colonial-era Fort Frederick and Trincomalee city walk.
Evening: Culinary demonstration of local seafood specialties.

Day 10: Trincomalee to Sigiriya

Drive to Sigiriya via Habarana.
Check in to eco-lodge/hotel.
Afternoon: Village tour: bullock cart ride, canoe ride, Sri Lankan cooking class.
Evening: Relax, or optional ayurveda spa.

Day 11: Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park

Morning: Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress—frescoes, gardens, legendary king’s history.
Late Morning: Explore the Sigiriya Museum.
Afternoon: Safari in Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park—elephant herds and exotic birds.
Optional: Late evening bonfire and traditional drumming performance.

Day 12: Sigiriya to Kandy (via Dambulla)

Morning: Visit Dambulla Cave Temple (ornate Buddhist cave murals).
En route: Stop at Matale for a spice garden tour; complimentary head and shoulder massage.
Lunch: Taste Kandyan rice and curry.
Afternoon: Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya; orchid collections.
Evening: Check in to hotel and attend a vibrant Kandyan dance show.

Day 13: Kandy Culture & Countryside

Morning: Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Esala Perahera artifacts if timing allows).
City tour: Kandy Lake, colonial buildings, arts/crafts workshops.
Afternoon: Traditional batik/silk shop or gem factory visit.
Free evening: Tea at a hilltop cafe overlooking the valley.

Day 14: Kandy to Bentota (via Pinnawala)

Morning: Stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage—feed and bathe the elephants.
Continue: Drive through scenic rubber and tea country.
Afternoon: Arrive and check in at Bentota beach resort.
Evening: Relax on palm-fringed beach, try local seafood barbecue.

Day 15: Bentota River & Sea Adventure

Morning: Madhu River boat safari (mangroves, cinnamon island, birdlife).
Next: Visit a turtle hatchery; learn about conservation.
Daytime/afternoon: Water sports (jet skiing, windsurfing, banana boat).
Evening: Final sunset and celebratory farewell dinner.

Day 16: Departure

Breakfast at leisure.
Transfer to Colombo International Airport for your onward journey.
Assistance provided by your private guide up to departure.

Inclusions & Special Touches

All accommodations in boutique 3–4 star hotels and eco-lodges.
Private, air-conditioned vehicle with Wi-Fi.
Dedicated chauffeur-guide throughout.
Half-board meals: breakfast and dinner included daily.
All entry tickets to key sites, national parks, and activities.
Complimentary SIM card, spa treatment, and cultural demonstrations.
Responsible, sustainable travel: support for local communities, reduced plastics, ethical wildlife encounters.
This tailored itinerary provides an immersive journey through Sri Lanka’s less-visited North and East, delivers unique local experiences, and ensures a blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic cultural discovery. The route and activities may be further customized according to traveler preferences or seasonal highlights.

Hotels

Jetwing Sea

On the gold-sand Jetwing Beach along the Laccadive Sea, this contemporary hotel is 5 km from the remains of the Negombo Dutch Fort and 14 km from Bandaranaike International Airport.

Jetwing Lagoon Wellness

Jetwing Lagoon Wellness offers an exquisite wellness retreat with elegant rooms and suites surrounded by lush landscapes, just steps from the shimmering beach. Enjoy two acclaimed restaurants, a striking pool, and indulgent spa therapies in a refined resort atmosphere.

Amaya Lake Dambulla

Nestled along the shores of Kandalama Lake, this eco-friendly resort spans 50 acres, offering luxurious chalets, an outdoor pool, Ayurvedic spa treatments, and proximity to cultural sites. (Travel Weekly)

Earl's Regency Hotel

A luxurious hotel nestled in the hills of Kandy, offering elegant rooms, a large outdoor pool, fine dining, and stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Ekho Lake House

A heritage hotel overlooking the Parakrama Samudra reservoir, providing elegant rooms, serene surroundings, and easy access to ancient city ruins.

The Lake Hotel

Situated by the lake, this hotel offers tranquil accommodations, an outdoor pool, and convenient access to the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa.

Jetwing Vil Uyana

An eco-luxury resort featuring thatched dwellings set amidst paddy fields and wetlands, offering a unique blend of nature and comfort near the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Sigiriya Jungles

A resort nestled in lush greenery, providing spacious rooms, an outdoor pool, and easy access to the cultural sites of Sigiriya and Dambulla.

Jetwing Jaffna

On a tree-lined side street, this upscale hotel is a 2-minute walk from the historic Clock Tower, a 12-minute walk from Jaffna train station and a 13-minute walk from the 17th-century Jaffna Fort.

The Thinnai

Discover warm hospitality and spacious comfort at The Thinnai, where every suite offers ample privacy amidst a relaxed setting. Guests can unwind poolside or sample local flavors at multiple dining venues, including a casual café, making it an inviting base in Jaffna.

Mandara Resort

A beachfront resort providing comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, spa services, and a restaurant with ocean views, ideal for a relaxing seaside getaway.