Overview
"Essence of Sri Lanka: 5-Day Heritage and Wildlife Adventure" is designed to immerse you in the country's cultural heart and natural beauty. Start your journey in Colombo, traveling through the vibrant hill city of Kandy to witness the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic. En route, experience the charm of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where you can observe elephants bathing and socializing. The next day, explore the mesmerizing Dambulla Cave Temple with its ancient statues and murals, and take an optional hike up the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress for panoramic views.
The adventure continues as you journey to Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital, where royal ruins and historic stupas reveal Sri Lanka’s rich past. Wildlife enthusiasts will be thrilled by a visit to Udawalawe National Park on Day 4, with a safari that brings you face-to-face with elephants and other exotic animals. Your tour concludes with a scenic return to Colombo, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes, history, and culture.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
- Colombo (arrival and departure)
- Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- Kandy
- Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Kandy Lake
- Local markets
- Dambulla
- Dambulla Cave Temple
- Sigiriya
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress (optional visit)
- Polonnaruwa Ancient City
- Royal Palace
- Gal Vihara Buddha statues
- Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakrama)
- Udawalawe National Park
- Wildlife safari (elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and bird species)
NK Lanka Tours:
See something you don't like or want to change? You can choose the duration and type of trip that best suites you: summit hikes, cultural communities, charming hotels, rafting, beach, diving... Let us design the perfect trip for you.
OVERVIEW:
Start/End: Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport (or alternative location - additional cost)
Duration:Â 5 days/ 4 nights
Included/Excluded
- Specialized bilingual guide
- Private Transport
- Entrance fees (Cable and car and Moon Valley)
- Box lunch water, banana apple and chocolate
- Departure Taxes
- Entry Fees
- 5 Star Accommodation
- Airport Transfers
Tour Plan
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo and Transfer to Kandy
- Arrive in Colombo and transfer to Kandy.
- En route, stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to watch the elephants during feeding and bathing times.
- Arrive in Kandy and visit the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic.
- Evening stroll around Kandy Lake and explore local markets for handicrafts and souvenirs.
- Overnight stay in Kandy.
Day 2: Kandy to Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya
- Depart from Kandy and head towards the Dambulla Cave Temple, where you’ll explore ancient caves adorned with intricate Buddhist murals and statues.
- Continue to Sigiriya for an optional visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, or take some leisure time to relax in the surrounding area.
- Overnight stay in the Sigiriya or Dambulla area.
Day 3: Explore Polonnaruwa Ancient City
- Drive to Polonnaruwa, an ancient city and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved ruins, royal palaces, and temples.
- Discover iconic sites like the Royal Palace, Gal Vihara Buddha statues, and Parakrama Samudra (Sea of Parakrama).
- Overnight stay in Polonnaruwa or nearby.
Day 4: Travel to Udawalawe National Park
- Head south towards Udawalawe National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s top wildlife destinations.
- Afternoon safari through the park to observe wild elephants, leopards, sambar deer, and various bird species in their natural habitat.
- Overnight stay near Udawalawe.
Day 5: Return to Colombo and Departure
- Begin the journey back to Colombo, making scenic stops along the way.
- Arrive in Colombo for any final shopping or sightseeing.
- Depart for your onward journey, concluding your memorable 5-day exploration of Sri Lanka.