12 Days in Sri Lanka Beyond the Tourist Trail

Overview

Day by day itinerary

1. 1Welcome to Sri Lanka: Galle & the Southern Coast⌄

   Meet your private Eco Love Tours driver/guide and begin your journey through Sri Lanka. Assistance with luggage and private transfer towards Galle.

   Begin your Sri Lankan journey with a relaxed introduction to the historic Galle Fort, its ramparts, architecture and atmospheric streets.

2. 2Beyond Galle Fort: Craft, Culture & Coastal Life⌄

   Traditional Jewellery-Making Workshop Get hands-on with Sri Lankan traditional jewellery making. Work alongside a local artisan, learn traditional techniques and create your own piece rather than simply watching a demonstration.

   Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan flavours and learn about local ingredients, cooking traditions and everyday food culture.

   Explore the historic Galle Fort with your local guide, discovering its ramparts, colonial architecture,tasting home made ice cream, hidden corners and the everyday life of the Fort community.(And enjoy a beautiful sunset)

3. 3Southern Coast / Local Community⌄

   Discover a quieter side of the southern coast and experience local life away from the main tourist trail.

   Less crowded beach where you can enjoy a peaceful beach stay while witnessing an amazing sunset!

4. 4From the Coast to the Wild: Galle to Udawalawe⌄

   Visit an ancient cave temple with getting in to local customs and exploring the way of living.

   Visit the elephant transit home which is the only orphanage which operates in an ethical manner.

   Stop in the countryside to experience rural Sri Lankan life and learn about local livelihoods, food and traditions.

5. 5From Wildlife to the Mountains: Beragala⌄

   Experience a wildlife safari in Udawalawe National Park, looking for elephants, birds and other wildlife in their natural habitat. The safari follows responsible wildlife-viewing practices and respects animals and park regulations.(A slow ðhical safari ride is guaranteed)

   Arrive in the peaceful mountain region of Beragala and experience spectacular views, rural landscapes and a quieter side of Sri Lanka.

6. 6Exploring the mountains: Beragala to Ella⌄

   Hiking the waterfall with a local guide.Enjoy the scenic view from the top and swim in natural pools.

   Visit the famous view point.

   Explore the little town with enjoying food & shopping.

7. 7Sacred Mountains: Rakkhiththakanda Sunrise & Ella⌄

   A hidden sunrise view point where you don’t need to hike mountains.Just 5 minutes walk after driving 20 minutes from Ella.

   Meet local tea growers and discover the journey from tea plant to cup. Depending on the season, guests can experience tea picking, processing, rolling and tasting.

   Walk to the bridge and spot the train on the bridge.

   Sunset hike.

8. 8From the Mountains to Kandy⌄

   Scenic mountain train journey from Ella to Nanu Oya.The driver will drop you off from Ella station and meet you again at Nanu Oya station.

   Visit a tea factory on the way to Kandy and taste finest Ceylon Tea.

   Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka's historic hill capital, and experience the atmosphere of this culturally important city.

9. 9Living Culture: Kandy Beyond the Temple⌄

   Visit one of Sri Lanka's most important Buddhist temples and learn about its religious, cultural and historical significance. Respectful clothing is required.

   Nature walk / Bird watching

   Explore the area around historic Kandy Lake and learn about the landscape and history of the former royal capital.

10. 10Into the Ancient Kingdoms: Kandy to Habarana⌄

    Explore the historic cave temple complex, known for its ancient Buddhist murals, statues and religious heritage.

    An image house located in the right centre of the island (geographical centre)

    Enjoy a peaceful sunset canoe ride across Habarana Lake, surrounded by forest, wetlands and countryside. Look for birds and other wildlife while watching the sun set over the lake.

11. 11Stories in Stone: Sigiriya & the Ancient Landscape⌄

    Explore the ruins of Sri Lanka’s medieval royal capital, including ancient temples, royal buildings, sculptures and the remarkable Gal Vihara, while learning how the kingdom shaped the island’s history.

    Take a slower journey through villages, paddy fields and rural landscapes, with time to experience everyday life beyond the major archaeological sites.

    Explore the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, discovering its royal gardens, archaeological remains, frescoes and remarkable history while learning about the ancient civilisation that developed around the rock.

12. 12The Journey Home: Cultural Triangle to Colombo / Airport⌄

    Depending on the departure time, enjoy a short introduction to Colombo, with opportunities to explore local neighbourhoods, markets or food before departure.

    Private transfer to the airport for your onward flight, concluding your 12-day journey through Sri Lanka.