Sri Lanka Highlights East Coast Discovery

11 Nights / 12 Days

This excursion package spans beautiful Sri Lanka and comprises culture, wildlife, and beaches within a 12-day adventure. This trip provides an experience of exploring the famous UNESCO heritage sites, such as the rock fortress of Sigiriya and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, along with some of the most beautiful beaches of the East Coast, and exploring wildlife at places such as Minneriya and Kaudulla wildlife parks, and a host of optional activities such as snorkelling and whale watching, among many other such activities.

Day 01 – Arrival & Negombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your guide for a warm welcome. Transfer to Negombo and check into your hotel. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or lagoon. Enjoy a peaceful evening and dinner at your hotel.

Day 02 – Pinnawala & Sigiriya

After breakfast, transfer to Sigiriya, stopping optionally at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to see elephants bathing and being fed. Arrive at your hotel in Sigiriya and check in. Enjoy a relaxed evening at the hotel or take a short walk nearby. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.

Day 03 – Sigiriya & Village Experience

Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress early in the morning and admire the breathtaking views. In the afternoon, enjoy a village tour including a bullock cart ride, a catamaran trip, and a home-cooked lunch. Visit Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park for a jeep safari to spot wild elephants. Return to Sigiriya for overnight.

Day 04 – Dambulla & Trincomalee

Visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple after breakfast and marvel at its ancient murals and Buddha statues. Continue your journey to Trincomalee on the East Coast. Check in at your beachfront hotel at Nilaveli or Uppuveli. Spend the evening relaxing by the sea.

Day 05 – Pigeon Island Snorkelling

Take a boat trip to Pigeon Island Marine Park for snorkelling among colourful coral and tropical fish. Return to the hotel for a leisurely afternoon by the beach. Enjoy swimming or walking along the sandy shore. Overnight stay in Trincomalee.

Day 06 – Trincomalee Highlights

Visit the historic Koneswaram Temple and enjoy the dramatic Lover’s Leap viewpoint. Explore the Kanniya Hot Springs and experience the unique thermal waters. Spend the late afternoon relaxing at the beach or by the hotel pool. Overnight in Trincomalee.

Day 07 – Leisure & City Exploration

Enjoy a relaxed morning at the beach with optional whale-watching (seasonal). Later, explore Fort Frederick and other historical sites in Trincomalee city. Stroll along the coastline and take in the laid-back atmosphere. Return to your hotel for the evening.

Day 08 – Transfer to Pasikudah

Drive along the scenic coastline to Pasikudah and check in at your beachfront resort. Spend time relaxing at one of Sri Lanka’s calmest bays. Swim, sunbathe, or simply enjoy the tranquil surroundings. Overnight stay in Pasikudah.

Day 09 – Pasikudah Leisure & Water Sports

Enjoy a full day at leisure on the pristine Pasikudah beach. Optional water sports include jet skiing, paddleboarding, snorkelling, or catamaran sailing. Take a peaceful walk along the white sand during sunset. Return to the resort for dinner and an overnight stay.

Day 10 – Pasikudah to Kandy

After breakfast, drive through Mahiyanganaya and enjoy scenic views of the hill country. Arrive in Kandy and visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Attend a traditional Kandyan cultural dance show in the evening. Overnight stay in Kandy.

Day 11 – Hill Country & Train to Ella

Visit a tea plantation and factory to learn about tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Transfer to Ella via the picturesque train journey (subject to availability). Relax in the cool mountain climate and explore the charming town. Overnight stay in Ella.

Day 12 – Ella & Departure

Visit the Nine Arch Bridge and Ravana Falls in the morning. Transfer to Colombo and explore city highlights, including Galle Face, Independence Square, and Dutch Hospital. Enjoy some shopping before your airport transfer. Depart with memories of Sri Lanka’s cultural and coastal wonders.

Itinerary Highlights :

  • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
  • Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress
  • Village bullock cart & catamaran experience
  • Minneriya/Kaudulla safari (elephants)
  • Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO)
  • Trincomalee beaches & Koneswaram Temple
  • Pigeon Island Marine Park snorkelling
  • Pasikudah calm bay & water sports
  • Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic & cultural show
  • Tea plantation & factory in hill country
  • Nine Arch Bridge & Ravana Falls
  • Colombo city highlights

Inclusions:

  • Accommodation
  • Meals on Half Board basis (Breakfast + Dinner)
  • Professional chauffeur guide
  • 500 ml water per person per day
  • Entrance fees to all included sites
  • Transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle
  • Government taxes

Exclusions:

  • Meals not mentioned
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
  • Gratuities
  • Insurance and visa fees

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