Day 01 – Airport to Anuradhapura

Proceed to Anuradhapura. It is 200 Km from the Airport to Anuradhapura. It takes 5 hours to reach Anuradhapura without stopping anywhere. But you will enjoy the beautiful village scenery all over the route. It’s good to visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage en route, a caring home for abandoned and wounded elephants. It is a much-loved destination for tourists and locals alike.

Here, adults and baby elephants from around Sri Lanka thrive, and a captive breeding program is also proving to be highly successful. The feeding and bathing times are generally the ideal times to visit when you can observe these gentle giants at their best. Stay overnight in Anuradhapura. 

Day 02 – Anuradhapura

Start the Anuradhapura city tour in the morning session and discover its rich history and culture.

We recommend starting as soon as possible to prevent walking barefoot on heated sand on the floor. Explore ancient ruins, immerse yourself in the local culture, and enjoy the natural beauty.

We have written a separate article about Anuradhapura city tour for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/anuradhapura-sacred-city-tour/

One of the city tour’s highlights is visiting Anuradhapura’s ancient ruins. The city is home to numerous ancient temples, palaces, and monasteries, each with its unique story. The Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, Jetavanaramaya, and Abhayagiriya are must-see sites. As you wander through the ruins, you’ll be amazed by the intricate carvings and the sheer grandeur of the structures. And Sacred Bo-tree (Sri Maha Bodhi). 

Day 03 – Anuradhapura to Trinco

You can cover some highlights of the city within a short time. If you want to know more places in Trinco city, we have written a separate article about Trinco city tour for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/trinco-city-tour/

Thirukoneshwaran (Keneshwaran) temple is located inside Fort Fredrick and is a significant Hindu religious pilgrimage center. It was built during the ancient period on top of Konesar Malai.

According to the Ramayana, Rishi Agastya built Thiru Koneswaram on the instructions of Lord Shiva, who was impressed by King Ravana’s devotion. Lord Rama is believed to have offered his prayers here to get rid of the voodoo of killing Ravana.

For those interested, we have written a separate article about Ramayana trails, including the Thirukoneswaran temple; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/ramayana-sites-in-sri-lanka/

The deer are an eye-catching icon by the gate of Fort Fedrick. You will see many deer roaming in the city. People believe that they’re not harmed due to God’s blessing. It is illegal to harass them, too. People used to feed them at this deer park; the sad thing is they eat garbage disposed of in the city. Stay overnight in Trinco. 

Day 04 – Trinco

Nilaveli Beach is a beautiful stretch of golden sand on the Trinco coastal belt. It is known for its crystal-clear waters, calm waves, and lush palm trees. The beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing, diving, and snorkeling. It is located 15 km from Trinco City.

A 4km stretch of Nilaveli sand is one of the best beaches in Sri Lanka, and with its paradise-island remoteness, swaying palms, and golden tinge to the shore, it’s easy to see why. As such, it’s a surprise that it is so little frequented. Swimming is possible, although red flags often blow on windy days, indicating solid currents.

Pigeon Island National Park is one of Sri Lanka’s three marine national parks. It is situated 1 km off the coast of Nilaveli. Pigeon Island has two islands: a large one and a small one. The large island is fringed by a coral reef about 200 m long and 100 m wide. Its highest point is 44.8 m above mean sea level. Rocky islets surround the small island.

The Pigeon Island is also used as a scuba diving and snorkeling site.

We have written a separate article about all the water sports that can be done in Sri Lanka for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/water-sports-in-sr-lanka/

Day 05 – Trinco to Sigiriya

Proceed to Sigiriya. Enjoy a Bullock Cart Ride, a slow ride on a cart pulled by bulls. Enjoy the peaceful countryside and see lovely views.

After joining the Hiriwadunna Village Tour, take a village tour. Meet local people, learn how they live, and understand their culture. It is an excellent way to see how they do things in the village.

Enjoy the Minneriya National Park Safari in the evening.

This area covers the former Minneriya—Giritale Sanctuary. About 200 Wild Elephants, Wild Buffaloes, Wild Boar, Spotted Deer, Sloth Bear, Sambhur, Leopards, Crocodiles, nine kinds of Amphibians, 25 types of Reptiles, 160 species of Birds, 26 varieties of Fishes, and 78 varieties of Butterflies are recorded from the Minneriya National Sanctuary. Stay overnight in Sigiriya. 

Day 06 – Sigiriya

Sigiriya Fortress is the 5th Century ‘Fortress in the Sky,” which is perhaps the most fantastic single wonder of the Island. It is also known as Lion Rock because of the huge lion that used to stand at the entrance to the fortress.

Within its triple-moated defense, the huge rock rises almost to a sheer height of 500ft. On its summit are the foundations of what was once a grand and delicious palace and gardens, complete with a swimming pool. On one of the steps, the only known ancient work of Sinhala secular painting survived as frescoes of life-sized damsels in all the freshness and delicacy of their original color.

We have written a separate article about Sigiriya city tour for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/sigiriya/

Enjoy Ayurvedic and wellness treatments and wellness retreats. An ancient healing system, Ayurveda focuses on restoring balance and harmony to the body and mind.

Experience the rejuvenating benefits of Ayurveda through relaxing massages, herbal treatments, and yoga sessions. Many resorts and spas in Sigiriya offer specialized Ayurvedic packages that cater to individual needs, providing a holistic and rejuvenating experience.

Day 07 – Sigiriya to Kandy

Dambulla Cave temple is famous for the five cave Temples on a rock. The first 03 caves are better, older, and more extensive than the others.

Some caves date to 1st C.B.C. All five cave walls and ceilings are covered with Buddhist murals, and there are more than 130 Buddha statues; statues of Gods and Kings are also found here.

Sri Lanka, known as the “Spice Island,” is famous for its lush green landscapes and aromatic spices.

A visit to the spice gardens of Sri Lanka is a sensory delight, offering a unique opportunity to learn about the country’s rich spice heritage and experience the scents and flavors that have made it a culinary paradise. Visit Spice and Herbal Garden in Matale.

You can start the Kandy City tour in the afternoon. The hill capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. It is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains and home to significant historical and religious attractions, such as the Temple of the Tooth Relic Kandy, the last Kingdom capital until the British captured it in 1815.

You can cover some highlights of the city within a short time. If you want to know more places in Kandy city, we have written a separate article about Kandy city tour for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/kandy-city-tour/

Kandy Lake is an excellent place for people to watch in the shade of the ancient trees. Go for a walk with your travel buddy.

One of Kandy’s unique aspects is its laidback streets, full of a colorful kaleidoscope of colonial buildings and houses.

Explore the Sacred Temple of the Tooth relic in the Royal Palace complex, a historic location of cultural and religious significance.

The Temple of the Tooth Relic is the jewel in the heart of the old city, captivating and majestic. It is a greatly venerated site, as it holds the Tooth Relic of the Buddha and thus attracts pilgrims from all over the world and the island. Overnight stay at Kandy.

Day 08 – Kandy

Kandy Viewpoint is a quick stop with a platform from which you can enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city, with its glamour blended with nature. Perched on top of a mountain, this attraction offers mesmerizing views of the surrounding landscapes, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Situated at approximately.

If you are a nature lover or simply looking for a peaceful escape from bustling city life, the Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy, Sri Lanka, is the perfect destination. Spread over 147 acres, this enchanting garden is a haven for flora and fauna enthusiasts, offering a delightful experience amidst the lush greenery and vibrant blooms.

The Royal Botanical Garden, also known as Peradeniya Botanic Gardens, dates back to the 14th century during the reign of King Vikrama Bahu III. Created as a pleasure garden for the royal family, it was later transformed into a botanical garden by the British in 1821. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and a scientific research and conservation center.

The gem museum showcases various gemstones, including the famous Ceylon sapphires. Visitors can learn about the different types of gemstones, their characteristics, and the factors that determine their value. The museum also houses a gemological laboratory where gemstones are tested and certified. Visiting these gem museums in Sri Lanka will give you a deeper understanding of the country’s gem industry and allow you to appreciate the beauty and craftsmanship of these precious stones.

Elephant wood carvings and Masks are a famous Sri Lankan handicraft made from local hardwoods and used in religious and decorative settings. They depict elephants in various poses and are decorated with intricate patterns, often painted in vibrant colors. Traditional techniques have been passed down through generations and can take months or years. Highly sought after by collectors and art lovers, Sri Lankan Elephant wood carvings are also commonly used as gifts and decorations in the country.

The cultural show starts at 16.30 in the evening, and the Kandy cultural show captivates your ears and eyes with spectacular local culture and art displays. In this one-hour show, you will see drummers, fire dancers, and more in a cultural spectacle covering various aspects of Sri Lanka’s traditions. This cultural show depicts multiple forms of Kandyan dancing, which was once native to the area but has now spread to different island regions.

You have two options for entering the audience. If you visit, you can pay an entry fee or obtain free tokens from the Gem Museum & Lapidary. Please talk to your tour guide for the information.

We have written a separate article about the Cultural dancing show Kandy for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/cultural-dancing-show-kandy/

You can visit the Kandy bazaar (local market) or the hotel. Overnight stay in Kandy. 

Day 09 – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Visit Shri Bhakta Hanuman Temple Ramboda, 35 Km from Nuwara Eliya town towards Kandy. It is a significant spot in the epic Ramayana, and Hindus worldwide consider it one of the main spots. In the Ramayana, Hanuman searches for Sitadevi on these hills. Chinmaya Mission of Sri Lanka built a Hanuman temple at this site.

This blog post will not discuss the Ramayana side of the temple. For those interested, we have written a separate article about Ramayana trails, including the Hanuman temple; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/ramayana-sites-in-sri-lanka/

Hanuman Temple is a picturesque place for tourists worldwide, including non-Hindus. The temple is built atop a mountain, surrounded by beautiful scenery, including the Kotmale reservoir.

Ramboda Falls is 109 m, the eleventh tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka, and the 729th tallest waterfall in the world. It is situated at Ramboda Pass. The Panna Oya, a tributary of Kothmale Oya, forms the waterfall, which is 945 above sea level. It is beautiful, and you love it.

Visit a tea factory, one of Sri Lanka’s primary sources of foreign exchange. Ceylon tea is recognized as Ceylon Tea and is renowned for its high–quality aroma and taste.

In over one hundred and fifty years, the name Ceylon had become synonymous with the world’s finest tea. In the world’s eye and tongue, Ceylon was tea, and tea was Ceylon. What Rolls Royce is to cars, Rolex is to watches, Havana is to cigars, Scotland is to whisky, and Ceylon is to tea. The legendary lion of the Sri Lankan flag was introduced to the Ceylon Tea logo to guard this commitment, the symbol of quality. Stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya.

Day 10 – Nuwara Eliya

Start Nuwara Eliya city tour. You can cover some highlights of the city within a short time. If you want to know more places in Nuwara Eliya city, we have written a separate article about Nuwara Eliya city tour for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/nuwara-eliya-city-tour/

Visit the spectacular Sitha Amman Kovil.

According to legend, Seetha Amman temple is where Ravana, King of Lanka, kept Sita during his reign. 

One of the most iconic landmarks of Nuwara Eliya town is Gregory Lake, an artificial lake surrounded by lush green hills. Take a stroll along the lakeside, rent a paddleboat, or relax and enjoy the serene beauty of the surroundings. 

The lake is also famous for picnics and offers breathtaking views, especially during sunrise and sunset. Gregory Park is a narrow, stripped park along the lake’s brink. There is a beautiful walking path around the lake.

Explore the city’s Colonial History. Nuwara Eliya is full of colonial buildings, such as the famous Post Office housed in an 1894 Tudo Manor. Stay overnight in Nuwara Eliya. 

Day 11 – Nuwara Eliya to Bentota

Enjoy the beauty of St Clair Waterfall and Deven Waterfall.

If you feel adventurous, the incredible experience of White-Water Rafting awaits you at Kitulgala. The 5km on the picturesque Kelani River run covers five significant rapids and four minor ones.

You will be in good hands with safety gear, modern rafts, and a comprehensive safety briefing given by our white-water rafting instructors beforehand. Those who prefer to keep their feet dry can take it easy, relax, and admire the beautiful views.

Check-in Hotel Bentota. Enjoy the beach. Stay overnight in Bentota. 

Day 12 – Bentota to Galle excursion

You must start at 8.00 am from the hotel if you would like to return to the hotel a bit early to see the sunset from the swimming pool.

Bentota is home to several Turtle Conservation projects that aim to protect and preserve these magnificent creatures. Animal lovers must visit a turtle conservation project (Turtle hatchery). Here, you can learn about the different species of turtles, witness the hatching of turtle eggs, and even release baby turtles into the sea. It is an enriching experience to contribute to the conservation efforts and see these gentle creatures return to their natural habitat.

You have to pay an entrance fee at the gate. They are using it to maintain the project.

When it comes to experiencing the natural beauty and tranquility of Sri Lanka, Madu River boat riding is an absolute must. Nestled in the southwestern part of the island, Madu River is a picturesque river that winds its way through lush mangrove forests and serene landscapes. This enchanting river offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Sri Lanka.

We have written a separate article about the Madu River boat riding for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/madu-river-boat-safari/

Meetiyagoda is renowned for Moonstone mining and is Sri Lanka’s biggest Moonstone mine. Moonstones vary in quality, but the finest have a translucent neutral body with a vibrant blue shine. Sri Lankan moonstones are dark blue and very popular among tourists. They are undoubtedly of the highest value.

Welcome to Galle City. The highlight of any visit to Galle is exploring the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by the Portuguese in the 16th century and later fortified by the Dutch, this impressive fortress is a testament to the city’s colonial past. Stroll along the ramparts, and you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views of the Indian Ocean and the surrounding area. It covers an area of 52 hectares.

Galle Cricket Stadium. It is situated near Galle Fort and fringed on two sides by the Indian Ocean. It is considered one of the most picturesque cricket grounds in the world. Before being brought up to international cricket standards, it was known as ‘The Esplanade’ and is the home base of the Galle Cricket Club.

Return to Hotel Bentota to see Sunset. Stay overnight in Bentota. 

Day 13 – Bentota to Negombo

You must start at 8:30 a.m. and return to the hotel before check-out. If you don’t want water sports, skip them and stay at the hotel until check-out. Bentota is situated on the southern bank of the Bentota River mouth, which is very popular for water sports. We are not going to discuss water sports in this blog post. You cannot cover all the scenery and activities from Bentota to Galle in a single day.

We have written a separate article about Water sports in Sri Lanka, including Bentota water sports, for those interested; the link follows immediately.

https://pantheratravels.com/water-sport-in-sr-lanka/

https://pantheratravels.com/colombo-city-tour/

Check-in Hotel Negombo. Enjoy the beach in Negombo. Stay overnight in Negombo.

Day 14 – Negombo to Airport

After Breakfast, checkout & proceed to the Colombo Airport to catch your flight. It is 9 km and 30 minutes. It depends on your flight time, which can be spent more time on the beach.