Day 1: Kandy
The final royal Sri Lankan Kingdom to fall to the British in 1815, Kandy has a rich and proud heritage. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city has much to offer intrepid travellers; explore the magnificent Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, wander around the bustling town bazaar and Kandy market and visit a gem museum as well as an arts & crafts centre.
Day 2: Pinnawala
An unforgettable experience awaits at this popular attraction where orphaned and sometimes injured gentle giants of the wild are cared for. Established in 1975, the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage encompasses a 25-acre property and offers visitors a chance to get up close to elephants, some of which have been born here as well.
In the afternoon, head to the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya one of the island’s most picturesque of gardens. It offers the ideal escape from the bustling city and features lush lawns, charming pavilions and a vibrant variety of flowering plants.
Day 3: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy a scenic train ride through lush mountains carpeted with tea bushes interspersed with the occasional gushing waterfall. After disembarking at Nanu Oya, you will be continuing the rest of the short journey by car to reach the town of Nuwara Eliya, famously known as “Little England”. Sprawling tea plantations and refreshing mountain air await travellers here, offering a welcome respite from the tropical heat.
Day 4: Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains
After breakfast, proceed on a trek to Horton Plains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site & eco-tourism hideout in the heart of the isle. The endless stretches of terrains mark one of the healthiest wet montane evergreen forests in Sri Lanka.
Hike to the banks of Baker’s Falls and appreciate the majestic views the gushing streams of water create. Gaze down World’s End, a head-spinning 3,700 feet drop towards the southern end or drive past herds of sambar deer.
Day 5: Nuwara Eliya – Ella
Take a stroll among verdant slopes covered with tea bushes and watch how dedicated tea pluckers clad in colourful saris pick and choose the finest buds. Back at the factory, you will be able to observe how the tea leaves are processed, graded and packaged. End your tour with a fragrant cup of freshly brewed Ceylon tea while feasting your eyes on misty valleys and peaks.
Ella is a charming town surrounded by majestic mountain peaks ideal for adventurous travellers to explore via treks and hikes.
Day 6: Ella – Colombo
A true city of startling contrasts, Colombo is the bustling commercial metropolis of the island. It’s a hub where colonial buildings and temples exist alongside gleaming skyscrapers. Traverse around the city, and shop at exclusive concept stores featuring the work of premier local designers.
Day 7: Colombo – Airport
Breakfast at the hotel and transfer from Colombo to the airport for departure.
