Sri Lanka Highlands Exploration

On arrival at the airport, a representative will welcome you before you begin your journey to Kandy. Known as the last royal kingdom of Sri Lanka to fall to the British in 1815, Kandy boasts a rich heritage and is a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will explore the impressive Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, wander through the lively town bazaar and Kandy market, and visit a gem museum alongside an arts and crafts centre. As the day concludes, we will settle into your hotel in Kandy, where you can enjoy dinner. Please note that alcohol is not served in public areas of hotels and restaurants during religious holidays. Overnight in Kandy.

After breakfast, we begin the day with a tuk-tuk ride through Kandy, stopping at the Udawattakele Forest Reserve. This historic sanctuary, once known as the garden above the royal palace, covers 104 hectares and is renowned for its diverse birdlife. Established as a forest reserve in 1856 and later a sanctuary in 1938, it offers a peaceful retreat within the city. In the afternoon, we visit the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, originally a royal pleasure garden and now one of Sri Lankas most beautiful green spaces. Here, you can admire lush lawns, elegant pavilions, and a wide variety of flowering plants, including the notable Orchid House and the impressive giant Javan fig tree. In the evening, we enjoy a cultural show that provides insight into the regions rich traditions before returning to the hotel for dinner and overnight in Kandy.

After a hearty breakfast, continue your hill country journey to Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy a scenic train ride through lush mountains dotted with tea plantations and occasional waterfalls. Upon arrival at Nanu Oya, transfer by car to Nuwara Eliya, often called Little England for its cool climate and colonial charm. Here, sprawling tea estates and fresh mountain air provide a refreshing contrast to the lowlands. Explore well-preserved colonial bungalows and the Victoria Golf Course, an 18-hole course designed by Donald Steele and one of the finest in South Asia. Later, take a leisurely walk or bike ride along the picturesque shores of Lake Gregory as the day winds down. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

After breakfast, we set out for a trek in Horton Plains National Park, lasting around three hours. The hike takes you to the banks of Bakers Falls, where you can admire the powerful cascades. From there, enjoy breathtaking views at Worlds End, a sheer drop of 3,700 feet at the southern edge of the plateau. Along the way, you may spot herds of sambar deer and, if fortunate, catch glimpses of wildlife such as wild boar, fishing cats, otters or even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. After the trek, return to Nuwara Eliya for your overnight stay.

After breakfast, we visit a tea plantation and factory. You will stroll through lush slopes dotted with tea bushes and watch skilled tea pickers in colourful saris selecting the finest leaves. At the factory, observe the process of withering, rolling, fermenting, drying, grading and packaging the tea. The tour concludes with a cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea, enjoyed alongside views of misty valleys and peaks. Afterwards, we travel to Ella, where you can explore popular sites such as Mini Adams Peak, Ella Rock and the Demodara Nine Arch Bridge, each offering stunning vistas. Overnight in Ella.

After breakfast, we travel to Colombo for some last-minute shopping. Explore the citys exclusive concept stores showcasing the work of leading local designers. You may choose to enjoy a distinctive dining experience at one of the fusion restaurants or visit Pettah to wander its lively streets, taking in the vibrant mix of sounds, smells and sights. We will also visit the Dutch Hospital Complex, where you can enjoy live music and a wide selection of restaurants. In the evening, experience Colombos dynamic nightlife at popular clubs and casinos. Overnight stay in Colombo.

After breakfast at the hotel, we will transfer you from Colombo to the airport for your departure.