Upcountry of The Land of Serendib
Days: 5 Days / 4 Nights
Tour Overview
Experience a mesmerising 4- day, 5-night expedition of Upcountry Serendib to explore historic sites, natural beauty and diverse culture. This tour will take from the impressive ancient monument of Sigiriya to the magnificent mountainous region of Nuwara Eliya and then to the calm southern coast of Sri Lanka. During the trip, travellers can meet various animals and birds of Sri Lanka, visit such famous sights of the island as the Temple of the Tooth, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, the Royal Palace of Kandy, and many others In addition, tourists can try themselves in experiencing the traditions of Sri Lanka and become closer to the culture of this country for a few days.
Memorable Experiences:
- One of my immediate tourist attractions is the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage where you get to have a view of elephants.
- Rock cutting of Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Pidurangala Rock to have bird’s eye view.
- Visiting the historical site of Nalanda Gedige and visiting the Royal city of Matale with its beautiful Muthumari Amman Kovil.
- Exploring the colourful values, the Kandyan Cultural Show and the important Temple of the Tooth in Kandy.
- Walking around the Royal Botanical Gardens and admiring the peace and tranquilly of scenery at Ramboda Falls.
- Visiting a tea factory and a plantation in Nuwara Eliya in order to familiarise with the Sri Lankan product – Ceylon tea.
- Much of Ella including Little Adam’s Peak, Nine Arch Bridge, scenic train journey and Ravana Falls.
- Adventuring with an exciting Elephant watching in Udawalawa National Wildlife Park.
- Sun bathing in southern Sri Lanka beaches and leisure activities include; whale watching, temple tours among others.
- Visiting a number of the major attractions of Colombo, to include the Red Mosque, Lotus Tower, and Galle Face Green during the last day of the trip.
Airport to Sigiriya
Gateway to Heritage and Wildlife
Immerse Yourself in the Majestic Wonders of Pinnawala and Sigiriya
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Overnight Stay SIGIRIYA
Activities of the day:
Encounter Sri Lanka's Gentle Giants at Pinnawala
Start your tour with a visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and make your experience out of ordinary. See these magnificent animals in this setting when they feed, frolic, socialise and graze. This special opportunity covers you a chance to interact directly and capture beautiful natural shots of these beautiful giants of Sri Lanka’s wildlife.
Conquer the Sky Fortress of Sigiriya
Get into contact with the culture of old as you climb the wonder that is the Sigiriya Rock Fortress which has been listed as a UNESCO world heritage site. They should climb through the spiral staircases, look at the minster paintings and wander into the ruins of this royal fortress. On the peak, enjoy the outgoing breathtaking scenic view of the green Sri Lanka which is blend of historical and beautiful places with full cultural taste.
lesser-known facts about the Sigiriya Rock Fortress
What you should know about Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Get your cameras ready to capture the moments.
Mysterious Underground Tunnels:
While the grandeur of Sigiriya is often admired above ground, it’s believed that an ancient network of tunnels runs beneath the rock. These tunnels are said to have connected different parts of the fortress, possibly used as escape routes or secret passageways by the royal inhabitants. Most of these tunnels remain unexplored today.A “Mirror Wall” with Ancient Graffiti:
The Mirror Wall at Sigiriya, made of polished white plaster, was so smooth that it reflected the king’s appearance as he walked past. Over time, visitors, dating back to as early as the 6th century, inscribed poems and thoughts on the wall, making it one of the world’s oldest collections of graffiti. The inscriptions provide a glimpse into ancient travelers’ minds, with many expressing admiration for the beauty of the site and its frescoes.Hidden in Plain Sight – The Lion’s Paws:
Most tourists know about the lion’s paws at the base of Sigiriya, but few realize that the entire fortress was designed to resemble a massive lion. Originally, the rock fortress featured a full lion’s head, which unfortunately crumbled over time, leaving only the impressive paws. Visitors today are standing where the lion’s chest and head once loomed over the entrance, making Sigiriya a literal “Lion’s Rock.”The World’s Oldest Landscaped Gardens:
The water gardens at Sigiriya are considered some of the oldest landscaped gardens in the world. Ingeniously designed with sophisticated hydraulic systems, these gardens include fountains that still work during the rainy season, a testament to ancient Sri Lankan engineering. Their symmetrical layout reflects not only aesthetic beauty but also careful attention to functionality.Sigiriya’s Uncertain Origin Story:
Though widely accepted as King Kashyapa’s royal citadel, some historians believe that Sigiriya might have been a Buddhist monastery long before Kashyapa transformed it into a fortress. Archaeological evidence suggests that monks used caves in the area for meditation as far back as the 3rd century BCE, indicating that Sigiriya’s spiritual roots predate its royal association.
These rare insights can make the Sigiriya experience even more fascinating for tourists, revealing its hidden mysteries and historical depth.
Sigiriya to Kandy
From Majestic Peaks to Sacred Traditions
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Overnight Stay KANDY
Activities of the day:
Chase the First Light Over Pidurangala
Start your day with a memorable Pidurangala Rock climb at dawn. While walking up through the forests and along the treetops and undeveloped stone structures, the morning sky paints itself in orange and pink colors. The spectacular view at the top for trekkers is the vast expanse of greenery covered by mist together with the Sigiriya Rock King at a considerable distance. Unlike Molokai, this lesser known but equally stunning viewpoint provides a moment of solitude away from the noise and bustle of the world and a chance to capture the beauty and serenity of beginning of a new day.
Nalanda Gedige: Step Into the Heart of Sri Lanka’s Spiritual Harmony
Visit Nalanda Gedige an extraordinary archaeological site that seen as both Hindu as well as Buddhist monastery. Located in a calm environment, this historic place of worship and the most significant testimony of Sri Lanka as the crossroad of cultures. During your walk through the carved stone walls you are likely to feel timeless and serene and be amazed at how people of different gods and culture fused in this religious place. A modern day secret to get a glimpse of the islands spiritual life it is an overcoming calmness.
Muthumari Amman Kovil - Matale: Experience the Vibrancy of Sri Lanka’s Tamil Heritage
Get acquainted with the spirit of the Muthumari Amman Kovil that is a rather bright and ornate Hindu temple building worshiping the Mariamman goddess. : At Matale, this temple is alive painted with ornate carvings; featuring a beautiful artwork as well as sculpture beyond telling symbols of religions. It is not only a religious building, but it is a representation of the Tamils. When you will be strolling through its divine corridors, you understand the value of local culture and traditions thus making it a very rewarding cultural trip.
Kandyan Cultural Show & Temple of the Tooth:
In Kandy as the sun goes down, get yourself ready for some traditional worshiping. Begin the trip with the spectacular Kandyan Cultural Show comprising of Sri Lankan dancers with pretty drummers and fire displays. Then, go the Temple of the Tooth and experience the quietness and the beautiful humming during the chanting to reach the divine tooth of Buddha. This performance is a perfect combination of the local colorful top and bottom and the island’s dark soul.
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Nature, Spirituality, and the Charm of Tea Country
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Overnight Stay NUWARA ELIYA
Activities of the day:
Morning Walk at the Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya:
Start your day with morning walking at Royal Botanical Garden in Peradeniya, which is a beautiful place to start with. Stretched over 147 acres this garden is a beauty and in has thousands of plant varieties and varieties of flowers and trees some of which are very old. While strolling around with the beautiful trails shaded trails, feel the beauty of the air that surrounds you and listen to the music of the nature. It is recommended not to miss the palm avenue and the beautiful orchid house where one can see delicate flowers- which can quite become the beginning of your tour.
Ascend to New Heights at Ambuluwawa
Subsequent to this freely venture into the Ambuluwawa Tower which is situated on a beautiful hill top. The tombs architecture is quite complex with a unusual design that has one side open with a view of the adjacent mountains and valleys. The avenue up to the summit is exciting; it is ascending along a winding road and among vegetation. On reaching the top enjoy the beauty of the area and do not forget to take some beautiful pictures. It is a fascinating sightseeing that reveals the attractiveness of Sri Lanka highlands.
Chase the Cascading Beauty of Ramboda Falls
Continue on to the Ramboda Falls which falls from a height and is considered as one among the tallest waterfalls with best of surroundings. By now you should be able to start enjoying the wonderful nature and at times you can feel the mist from the water falls on you. There is a trail for the more adventurous, which leads one nearer to the waterfalls and if one does not want to walk there is no need to worry as the place is very beautiful. In particular, it is free from noise and therefore it is best suited for such things as rustling.
Tour at a Tea Factory and Tea Plantation in Nuwara Eliya:
Next stop, Nuwara Eliya where you can take a tour round a tea factory all geared towards the production of the world class Sri Lankan tea. Learn how an Alishan tea is produced step by step from the selection of fresh tea leaves to the final wrapping. While on a tour of the tea estates or while trudging along the glossy tea estates allow the beauty to cast a spell on you. The final point of the tour, guests will be able to taste a cup of tea made of products of local tea plantations and enjoy the picturesque view of the surroundings: mountain rounded five-hill lines of the island of Sri-Lanka.
Wander Through the Charm of Nuwara Eliya
End your day with a leisurely walk through Nuwara Eliya City with it beautiful streets for sightseeing. Discover the world history visiting the ancient Post Office, Fruit & Vegetable Market and appealing Victoria Park. Walk by the Gregory Lake Park for the opportunity to view the scenic lake. If you fancy eating out and want great taste with a particular focus on local produce, find out about restaurants with mouth-watering local food. This walking tour exposes the tourist to the raw simplicity of Nuwara Eliya; an area, blessed with a rich history, culture and natural endowment.
Why Nuwara Eliya is referred "Little England"?
What you should know about Nuwara Eliya
Here are some unknown and intriguing facts about Nuwara Eliya that will spark curiosity in tourists:
Colonial Architecture: The town is characterised by several buildings of colonial nature demonstrated in their architecture of British origin. Some buildings including the Hill Club, the Post Office and several bungalows and cottages portray more the image of English country establishments albeit Georgian and very pleasing to the eye with freshly trimmed lawns and a very traditional sort of feeling to them.
Climate: Nuwara Eliya is cooler than the majority of Sri Lanka being at an altitude and with the climate that takes after England. The climate consists of mild to warm temperatures with an average of 10 to 20 °C (50 – 68 °F) thus receiving holidaymakers from the hot summer from Britain colony.
Tea Plantations: In the 19th century British started tea plantations in the region and extensively changed the whole atmosphere and economy of the place. Today Nuwara Eliya is full of flowering tea gardens looking like the England countryside hence the name – Little England.
Activities and Sports: It supports some Englishman customary activities involving social prestige, including golf, horse racing, and, less expectedly, cricket. The oldest is the Nuwara Eliya Golf Club established in 1889; the other popular activities include these games in this region with an atmosphere that is reminiscent of colonial Britain.
Flora and Fauna: It is full of non-indigenous plants which were brought in during the British regime and which include English roses and many other species of ornamental plants. This has the effect of producing a terrain that to not resemble a tropical jungle all that closely but of an English garden instead.
Cultural Influence: Most of the cultures, especially those that deal with food and drinks, followed in Nuwara Eliya originated from Britain. Taking a cup of tea in the afternoon is not exceptional, and most of the hotels and restaurants in the local present English food regimen.
All these factors together contribute to the novelty of the atmosphere in Nuwara Eliya to remind of England and make the city charming retaining its colonial looks and offering the topography of the central mountain range of Sri Lanka.
Kandy to Ella via Nuwara Eliya
From Scenic Heights to Coastal Wonders
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Overnight Stay SOUTH COAST
Activities of the day:
Visiting Little Adam's Peak: Conquer the Summit of Serenity
To start with, you should engage in a moderate hike that is Little Adam’s Peak wherein you will have to be rewarded with an excellent view of the panorama. The trail is made going through grasslands and fairly colored gardens and through tea estates in particular one may feel like taking a break. After reaching the summit feel free to sit and admire the beautiful scenery of the hills and valleys around — it is the perfect place for a souvenir snapshot and to relax a bit. Enjoy the consoling cool basting your face as you enjoy the serenity of this marvelous place.
Nine Arch Bridge: Marvel at the Engineering Wonder of the Nine Arch Bridge
There next is Nine Arch Bridge, a striking structure of architecture located in Ella countryside surrounded by greenery. Cross this piece of architectural art which was dominantly constructed during the British colonialism and marvel at the beautiful views you are likely to see. This bridge having the large arcs and the picturesque background is a photographers delight and such a wonderful place to enjoy the balance of the nature and mankind. Take a quick look of the train passing over the bridge—that is a very thrilling experience to behold.
Ravana Falls: Experience the Majestic Splendor of Ravana Falls
Proceed to Ravana Falls, fabulous water falls are the artificial one which is an attractive sight. A great tourist interest area is the Ravana falls which is situated at Ella and was named after the great King of Sri Lanka. Swim in the water and enjoy the clear water or relax and enjoy the nice nature around. This is a great chance to have some time or a few days surrounded by foliage and silence of the Sri Lankan countryside.
Buduruwagala Temple: Explore the Ancient Marvels
Visit the staggering Buduruwagala temple which holds the famous rock-carving of Buddha statues back to eighth century. Explore this area that is both historic and most importantly religious. The delicacies in carving and the passive theme give a full view of what Sri Lankans offer concerning heritage. During your voyage let this temple be a source of inspiration and consider the values that this shrine posess.
Witness Compassion at Udawalawa Elephant Transit Home
Go to Elephant Transit Home in Udawalawa where elephants are treated before being released back to wild. See these impressive animals being fed and looked after by staff and find out what is done to protect them. This makes the experience rather special because not only do you get to be close to these great animals; you learn of the needs they have in the wild as well. It is a feel good moment that also sends the message of conserving wildlife in Sri Lanka.
Embark on a Wild Safari Adventure in Udawalawa National Park
After the sunlight starts to fill the sky, go for exciting wildlife viewing in Udawalawa National Park. This large area is also a habitat to a number of wild animals, which include elephant, deer, several types of birds, etc. Admire the park ride through the scenes and admire the habitats of these larger than life animals. Heralding the great African sky painted with shades of gold, dusks enhance this Safari experience and providing memorable wildlife sighting and experience.
Choosing Your Coastal Paradise: Relax and Unwind at Your Beach Destination
You can choose any beach area (one destination) listed to spend this day
- Tangalle: Explore Ridiyagama Safari and the ancient Mulkirigala Rock Temple.
- Dikwella, Talalla, or Hiriketiya: Discover the natural wonders like Hummanaya Blow Hole, Wewurukannala Temple, and Dondra Head Lighthouse.
- Polhena, Mirissa, Weligama, or Ahangama: Enjoy whale watching and visit the Telijjawila Snake Farm.
- Unawatuna or Galle: Unwind at Unawatuna Jungle Beach or explore the historic Galle Fort.
- Hikkaduwa, Ambalangoda, Iduruwa, Bentota, Beruwala, or Kalutara: Visit the Ambalangoda Mask Museum, Sinigama Dewalaya, Madu River Boat Safari, and Turtle Conservation Projects. Explore Lunuganga and Brief Garden architecture, or visit Kalutara Bodhiya and Richmond Castle.
Each coastal option offers unique experiences, from adventure to relaxation!
South Beach Coast to Airport
Nature, Heritage, and Cityscape Wonders
Activities of the day:
Discover the Iconic Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque)
When embarking on a Colombo tour, start with the Pettah's Red Mosque, a red-and-white beautiful piece of brick architecture. This venerable place of worship has high minarets and fascinating history; it is one of the most remarkable architectural ensembles in Colombo.
Relax by the Ocean at Galle Face Green
Visit Galle Face Green or take a break from the stress by watching the waves crash in front of Colombo’s peaceful walkway spot. Take a leisurely walk along the seafront, admire the beautiful sunsets on the Indian Ocean coast, and savour local spices with the street food and feel the spirit of the Indian Ocean with kite flying in this beautiful urban getaway .
Admire the Grandeur of the Old Parliament Building
Trip to neoclassical styled Old Parliament Building, which is an icon representing the colonal history of Sri Lanka per se. This imposing building situated near Colombo Harbor may be of much political importance as it unfolds the historical path the island sought to liberate itself.
Soar to New Heights at the Lotus Tower
Visit and have eye pleasing sights of Colombo from the tallest building known as the Lotus Tower in Sri Lanka. This is a sleek, contemporary structure, built in the form of a lotus flower, so there is some fascinating view from the observation deck of the building.
Find Tranquility by the Waters of Beira Lake
Relax on pristine waters of Beira Lake surrounded by beautiful city of Sri Lanka. Take a walk, ride on a boat or just admire closer this water area as this is indeed a place of silence surrounded by the continuous pulsating of the city that is Colombo.
Experience Spiritual Serenity at Gangaramaya Temple
Gangaramaya Temple is a sacred one originally built and based with Sri Lankan architectural design mixed with Thai, Indian, and Chinese. This is an important religious shrine; the interior is simple and serene; there are elaborate decorations on the walls; and it also has a museum containing historical artifacts for a good cultural display.
Journey Through History at the National Museum
Immerse you in historical past in the Sri Lankan national museum situated in Colombo housing royal items and treasures, statues, sculptures, and manuscripts. It is an excellent cultural guide that makes learners take a cultural tour on the history and heritage of the island.
Reflect on Freedom at Independence Square
Continue your city tour at Independence Square for the Freedom Statue found in the Independence Memorial Hall. Stroll through the quiet gardens of this monument to the freedom that the nation enjoys today from colonial rule.
End Your Day with a Delightful Dinner
At long last, complete your four days in Colombo by eating in one of the city’s most popular eateries. If you are a local with the desire for local dishes or simply a tourist who wants to enjoy an international meal, you will always find a nice place to eat in Colombo.
- Pickup and departure hotel transfers.
- A luxury, modern, air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking driver and a professional, polite, and friendly guide. (Each identical)
- All sightseeing according to the itinerary.
- Free local sim card.
- Free Wi-Fi on board the vehicle.
- Parking tickets.
- Full insurance.
- Automotive fuel.
- Free water in the vehicle.
- At the same time, we can offer customized tour packages based on your preferences and free assistance in arranging the best itinerary for you at your convenience. We wish to provide you with a kind of family service.
- Meal plan – Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
- Entry fee charges
- Anything else not listed in the Inclusions section
- Tips, bar, and all other expenses
- Visa and Airfare