Enchanting Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka Upon arrival in Colombo, you will be greeted and transferred to your luxurious colonialstyle seafront hotel. Given that many flights arrive early in the morning, Midasia Routes has arranged for your room to be available from the night before Day 1, ensuring a smooth and comfortable start to your journey. Spend the day at leisure, either resting from your travels or exploring Colombo at your own pace. Take in the vibrant energy of this bustling city, which offers a fascinating mix of modern life and colonial charm. In the evening, join your fellow travelers for a delightful Welcome Dinner and Trip Orientation, where you will get a taste of the adventures that await. Overnight in Colombo B, D

Today, immerse yourself in the rich history and vibrant culture of Colombo. Begin with a visit to the citys bustling markets, where you can experience the local way of life and perhaps pick up some unique souvenirs. Explore an eclectic mix of Hindu and Buddhist temples, each showcasing the diverse spiritual heritage of Sri Lanka. Wander through the historic Colombo Fort area, a place steeped in colonial history. Enjoy a delicious lunch at a charming restaurant situated in the old Dutch hospital, now a lively shopping and dining venue. In the evening, experience the spectacular Perahera festival, one of the most colorful events in the Sri Lankan cultural calendar. This grand Buddhist celebration features elephant processions, dancers, and drummers, providing a vivid display of Sri Lankas rich traditions. Overnight in Colombo B, L, D

Depart Colombo and journey to the serene Aliya Resort, your luxurious home for the next three nights. Upon arrival, enjoy a captivating cooking demonstration, followed by a traditional Sri Lankan feast served in clay pots on banana leaves. After lunch and some time to relax, embark on an exhilarating jeep safari in either Kaudulla National Park or Hurulu Eco Park, depending on the seasonal migration of the elephants. Witness herds of majestic wild elephants and other wildlife in their natural habitat, a truly unforgettable experience. Kaudulla National Park, established in 1938, features a magnificent 7,400acre reservoir that supports a variety of aquatic birds, including painted storks and spotbilled pelicans. Overnight at Aliya Resort B, L, D

Today, visit a local school near Ritigala, where you will have the opportunity to interact with students aged 510 years old. This heartwarming experience provides a glimpse into the educational system and daily life of Sri Lankan children. Continue to a nearby Buddhist monastery for an almsgiving ceremony, where the monks will bless you in return. Enjoy lunch at a beautiful resort, once the mansion and estate of a British Governor. In the afternoon, explore Anuradhapura, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage site. This grand city, which dates back to 437 BC, is the center of the islands Buddhist civilization. Discover ancient Buddhist shrines, majestic dagobas, gardens, stone baths, ponds, and a sophisticated irrigation system. The highlight is the 2,000yearold Sri Maha Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment. Witness Buddhist pilgrims engaging in devotional practices around this sacred site. Overnight at Aliya Resort B, L, D Approximate driving time 2 hours total

A short drive takes you to Sigiriya, the famed rock fortress of King Kashyapa. As you approach, youll see the towering rock outcrop rising from the green jungle plains. Ascend the steep stone steps to the top, where youll find the ruins of an ancient palace and enjoy breathtaking views of the surrounding jungle. The Sigiriya maiden frescoes, etched into the rock face, are among the sites most famous features. In the afternoon, explore Polonnaruwa, Sri Lankas wellpreserved medieval capital. This UNESCO World Heritage site features ancient dagobas, moonstones, parks, and stunning carved statues. The Sea of Parakrama, a vast 12thcentury manmade reservoir, dominates the site and supports the local wildlife. Enjoy a barbecue dinner upon your return. Overnight at Aliya Resort B, L, D Approximate driving time 2 hours total

Travel to Dambulla to explore five mystical cave temples dating from the first century BC. These caves, adorned with magnificent frescoes and a colossal recumbent Buddha statue, were once a refuge for King Walagamba. Continue to Matale for lunch at a spice garden, where youll learn about the various spices Sri Lanka is famous for and see how they are grown and processed. Proceed to Kandy, the hill capital and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, nestled at 1,600 feet amidst rolling hills. This World Heritage site is a cultural sanctuary where legends, traditions, and folklore are lovingly preserved. Settle into the beautifully situated Jetwing Kandy Gallery hotel, surrounded by the vivid green hills of Kandy. Overnight in Kandy B, L, D Approximate driving time 2.5 hours

Start the day with a visit to Kandys most famous site, the goldenroofed Temple of the Tooth, where a sacred tooth relic of Buddha is enshrined. This 16thcentury temple is a major pilgrimage site for Buddhists worldwide and a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterwards, visit a cultural center housed in the ancient home of a village chief, now an art center with vast collections of antiques and artifacts. Enjoy lunch with the centers founder, Jacques Souli, who will share insights into the history of the Kandy and Gampola kingdoms. Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps exploring Kandys markets or visiting the Kandy Botanical Garden, renowned for its orchid collection. In the evening, enjoy a traditional performance featuring fire walking. Overnight in Kandy B, L, D

Travel by rickshaw to explore three 14thcentury temples in Pilimatalawa. Visit Gadaladeniya, a hilltop temple built by South Indian artists, Lankathilaka, a majestic rock temple, and Embekke, known for its exquisite wood carvings. Continue to Nuwara Eliya, nestled in Sri Lankas hill country, and stay at the historic Heritance Tea Factory. This beautifully restored hotel, surrounded by rolling tea plantations, offers stunning mountain views. Enjoy High Tea and soak in the serene atmosphere of this charming colonial town. Overnight at Heritance Tea Factory B, L, D Approximate driving time 3.54 hours total

Embark on a morning hike through lush tea plantations, witnessing the daily life of the teapicking community. Visit a tea factory to learn about the intricate process of transforming raw green tea leaves into the dark brown tea enjoyed worldwide. Participate in a teatasting session, identifying the subtle differences in flavors. Afterward, board a scenic train to Ella, a picturesque hillcountry town. Upon arrival, enjoy a brief sightseeing tour of Ella before heading to Jetwing Kaduruketha, a beautiful ecolodge near Wellawaya. Overnight at Jetwing Kaduruketha B, L, D Approximate driving time 4.5 hours total

Enjoy a leisurely morning with an optional bike ride led by your Trip Leader through verdant rice paddies and local farms. The afternoon is yours to relax and unwind at the ecolodge. Dinner and overnight at the hotel.B, L, D

Start the day with a visit to Buduruwagala, where seven figures are carved into a massive rock, including a 51foot statue of Buddha. Continue to Yala National Park, arriving in time for lunch. Yalas dunecovered scrub landscape is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, painted storks, monkeys, and leopards. Enjoy an exciting afternoon game drive, followed by a special barbecue dinner in the evening. B, L, D Approximate driving time 3 hours total

Take a scenic drive to Galle, stopping en route to observe Sri Lankas famous stilt fishermen. Explore the historic fortified town of Galle, a former Dutch and British trading post. Wander through the charming streets, visit colonialera buildings, and soak in the coastal atmosphere. In the evening, gather for a festive Farewell Dinner, featuring delicious seafood. B, L, D Approximate driving time 3 hours

Spend a leisurely morning enjoying the pool, ocean, and hotel facilities, or explore Galle on your own. Checkout time is at noon. Transfer to Colombo Airport for your homewardbound flight. If you wish to extend your stay in Galle, we will be happy to make reservations for extra. B