4 Days
3 Nights
Arrive in Sri Lanka in the comfort and style you deserve, where a warm welcome awaits you at the airport. Meet your friendly Ceylon Adviser representative at the arrival lounge, ready to begin your unforgettable journey across this beautiful island. We always recommend an early arrival so you can relax, settle in, and make the most of every moment on your Sri Lankan adventure! π¬ Colombo Arrival & City Exploration Overview: Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA), you will be warmly greeted and transferred to your hotel in the bustling commercial capital, Colombo. After settling in, your first day will be dedicated to a relaxed yet engaging tour of the city's key historical and cultural highlights, giving you a perfect introduction to the island's unique blend of tradition and modernity. Highlights of the Day: π Airport Transfer & Hotel Check-in: Your chauffeur-guide will provide a comfortable transfer from BIA to your hotel in Colombo. After checking in and taking a moment to refresh, you'll begin your city tour. ποΈ Historical & Cultural Immersion: Begin your afternoon with a guided exploration of some of Colombo's most iconic sites: Gangaramaya Temple & Seema Malaka: Visit this eclectic Buddhist temple complex, which also includes the tranquil floating temple, Seema Malaka, built on the Beira Lake. Independence Square & Memorial Hall: Walk around this significant national monument, commemorating Sri Lanka's independence. Colombo National Museum (Optional): Dive deep into the island's rich history and culture with a visit to Sri Lanka's largest museum.
π Colombo to Udawalawe: Elephant Encounter & Safari Overview: Start your day with an invigorating journey from the urban hustle of Colombo towards the lush plains of the Southern Province. This travel day culminates in the heart of Sri Lanka's elephant country, Udawalawe. You will immediately dive into a thrilling afternoon of wildlife viewing, featuring a heartwarming visit to the Elephant Transit Home and an exciting jeep safari through the famed national park. Highlights of the Day: π Transfer to Udawalawe: Begin your day with a private chauffeur-driven transfer from Colombo to the Udawalawe area. The drive takes approximately 4 hours, traversing scenic highways and then connecting to roads that lead into the dry zone, offering a glimpse of Sri Lanka's diverse landscape. π Mid-day Visit β Elephant Transit Home (ETH): Upon arrival and after a quick check-in and lunch, head to the Elephant Transit Home (Ath Athuru Sevana). This humane facility rehabilitates orphaned elephant calves for eventual release back into the wild. Plan your visit to coincide with one of the main public feeding sessions, such as the 2:30 PM slot, to witness the heartwarming sight of baby elephants charging in for their milk bottles. ποΈ Afternoon Jeep Safari in Udawalawe National Park: Embark on a private jeep safari in the late afternoon, the prime time for wildlife spotting. Udawalawe is one of the best places in Asia to see elephants in the wild, often gathering in large herds near the reservoir. The park's open terrain also allows for excellent sightings of water buffalo, sambar deer, crocodiles, and a spectacular array of birdlife. π¨ Overnight Stay in Udawalawa: After an exhilarating day of travel and wildlife photography, your guide will take you to your nearby accommodation for dinner and an overnight stay, preparing you for the next leg of your Sri Lankan adventure.
<ποΈ Udawalawe to Galle: Coastal Charm & Ancient Walls Overview: Today you transition from the wild plains of Udawalawe to the historic, sun-kissed south coast. The journey offers picturesque countryside views before meeting the ocean. You will explore the iconic UNESCO World Heritage site, the Galle Fort, and enjoy a quintessential Sri Lankan coastal experience before settling in for the night. Highlights of the Day: π Morning Transfer to Galle: Begin your journey westward from the Udawalawe area to the historic city of Galle. This scenic drive takes you towards the Southern Expressway, eventually bringing you to the charming coastal region. π£ En Route Stop β Stilt Fishermen: Depending on your interest and the time of day, you may pause briefly along the coast to witness the famous Koggala stilt fishermen. This is a great opportunity for a unique photo as they practice their traditional method of fishing (please note that for a truly authentic experience, viewing is best at dawn or dusk, and some stilt fishermen are now there purely for tourists). π° Afternoon Exploration β Galle Old Dutch Fort: Spend your afternoon wandering through the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built first by the Portuguese and extensively fortified by the Dutch, the fort is a living museum. Explore its cobblestone streets, charming colonial architecture, the historic lighthouse, and the massive sea-facing ramparts. π Evening Activity β Relaxing Time at Beach: As the day cools, enjoy some relaxing time at a nearby beach. Whether itβs strolling the ramparts for a stunning sunset view over the Indian Ocean or sinking your toes into the sand, this is the perfect way to unwind after a day of travel and exploration. π¨ Overnight Stay in Galle: Check into your hotel within or near the Galle Fort area, allowing you to easily step out and experience the fort's magical evening atmosphere.
<βοΈ Galle to BIA: Departure Day Overview: Enjoy a final Sri Lankan breakfast in the historic setting of Galle. Your morning is dedicated to a relaxed check-out and the comfortable transfer back to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA). This journey along the Southern Expressway provides an efficient and scenic route, allowing you plenty of time for your international departure. Highlights of the Day: π³ Morning Leisure & Final Moments: Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a cafΓ© within the Galle Fort. You'll have time for any last-minute souvenir purchases or a final walk along the historic ramparts of the Fort before checking out. π Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA): Your chauffeur-guide will pick you up from your accommodation in Galle and provide a comfortable, private transfer to BIA, located near Colombo. The journey is efficiently completed via the Southern and Katunayake Expressways, typically taking approximately 2.5 to 3 hours. Note: We recommend planning your departure from Galle to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled flight departure time. π Departure: Arrive at BIA, where your chauffeur-guide will assist you with your luggage and bid you farewell, marking the end of your memorable journey through Sri Lanka.