Peaks & Paths – The Wild Heart of Ceylon

Peaks & Paths – The Wild Heart of Ceylon

14 Days / 13 Nights

Embark on a richly layered journey through Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms misty highlands untamed national parks and sunlit southern shores. Designed for travelers who want to experience the island in full this itinerary brings together UNESCO listed heritage sites scenic train rides thrilling safaris and relaxed beach days into one seamless Sri Lankan story.

Inclusions :

  • Accommodation with daily breakfast as per itinerary
  • Private air conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
  • English speaking guide for all excursions
  • Scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella
  • Wildlife safaris in Minneriya and Yala National Parks
  • White water rafting experience in Kitulgala
  • Cultural historical and nature experiences as outlined

Exclusions :

  • Meals not specified in the itinerary
  • Personal expenses such as shopping laundry or phone calls
  • Optional activities not included in the inclusions
  • Tips and gratuities for guides drivers and hotel staff
  • Travel insurance or additional services not mentioned

Day

01

Arrival in Colombo / City Stroll / Overnight in Colombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your private guide. Transfer to a comfortable city hotel in Colombo. In the evening enjoy a relaxed walk through the city taking in colonial architecture bustling streets and the seaside atmosphere. Overnight stay in Colombo.

Day

02

Colombo to Pinnawala to Dambulla / Cave Temple Visit / Overnight in Dambulla

Travel inland with a stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe elephants up close. Continue to Dambulla and explore the UNESCO listed Cave Temple complex famous for its ancient murals and Buddha statues. Overnight stay in Dambulla.

Day

03

Sigiriya Rock Fortress / Village Experience / Pidurangala Rock / Overnight in Dambulla

Begin early with a sunrise climb of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later enjoy a Sigiriya village tour offering insight into rural life. In the afternoon hike Pidurangala Rock for sweeping views of Sigiriya at sunset. Overnight stay in Dambulla.

Day

04

Polonnaruwa Ancient City / Minneriya National Park Safari / Overnight in Dambulla

Explore the ruins of Polonnaruwa Sri Lanka’s medieval capital featuring ancient temples royal palaces and colossal Buddha statues. In the afternoon embark on an elephant safari in Minneriya National Park known for its large herds and open landscapes. Overnight stay in Dambulla.

Day

05

Dambulla to Matale to Kandy / Spice Garden & Cultural Show / Overnight in Kandy

Travel to Kandy via Matale stopping at a spice garden to learn about Sri Lanka’s aromatic heritage. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic and witness the evening pooja ceremony. End the day with a traditional cultural dance performance. Overnight stay in Kandy.

Day

06

Kandy to Kitulgala to Nuwara Eliya / Botanical Gardens & White Water Rafting / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Start the morning at Peradeniya Botanical Gardens home to exotic flora and towering palms. Continue to Kitulgala for an exciting white water rafting experience on the Kelani River. Drive onward to the hill town of Nuwara Eliya. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day

07

Horton Plains / Gregory Lake / Tea Country Exploration / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

Set out early for a guided hike in Horton Plains National Park visiting World’s End and Baker’s Falls. Spend the afternoon exploring Gregory Lake Victoria Park and the town of Nuwara Eliya. Visit a tea plantation to learn about Ceylon tea production. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

Day

08

Scenic Train Ride to Ella / Nine Arches Bridge / Overnight in Ella

Board one of the world’s most scenic train journeys from Nanu Oya to Ella passing misty mountains tea estates and waterfalls. Visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge and enjoy leisure time exploring Ella’s cafés and viewpoints. Overnight stay in Ella.

Day

09

Lipton’s Seat / Little Adam’s Peak / Flying Ravana Zip Line / Overnight in Ella

Travel to Lipton’s Seat for panoramic views across rolling tea estates. Hike Little Adam’s Peak for gentle yet rewarding scenery. In the afternoon experience the Flying Ravana Zip Line for an adrenaline filled view of Ella’s valleys. Overnight stay in Ella.

Day

10

Diyaluma Falls / Ravana Falls / Transfer to Yala / Overnight near Yala

Visit Diyaluma Falls Sri Lanka’s second highest waterfall with time to explore its natural pools. Stop at Ravana Falls en route before transferring to Yala. Overnight stay near Yala National Park.

Day

11

Yala National Park Safari / Transfer to Galle / Overnight in Galle

Embark on an early morning jeep safari in Yala National Park renowned for its high leopard density and diverse wildlife. After the safari travel south to the historic coastal city of Galle. Overnight stay in Galle.

Day

12

Galle Fort Exploration / Sea Turtle Hatchery / Overnight in Galle

Discover the UNESCO listed Galle Fort wandering through cobbled streets colonial buildings and boutique shops. Later visit a sea turtle conservation hatchery to learn about local protection efforts. Overnight stay in Galle.

Day

13

Mirissa Beach / Stilt Fishermen / Return to Colombo / Overnight in Colombo

Spend the morning relaxing on Mirissa Beach with time for swimming or surfing. Visit the iconic stilt fishermen along the southern coast before returning to Colombo. Overnight stay in Colombo.

Day

14

Shopping & Departure

Enjoy last minute shopping or café visits in Colombo before your private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.