Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, a representative from Ceylon Waves will greet you and escort you to your hotel in the historic town of Sigiriya. Spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the tranquil surroundings of your accommodation.
Start your day with a trip to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the second capital of Sri Lanka after the fall of Anuradhapura. The city boasts beautiful ruins of the royal gardens constructed by King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century, Brahmanic temples from the Chola dynasty, and an extensive array of archaeological treasures, including temples, shrines, castles, and more. Notable sites include the palace of King Parakramabahu, the Audience Hall, and the Royal Bathing Pool
After exploring Polonnaruwa, head to Minneriya National Park for an afternoon wildlife safari. The park is known for the seasonal gathering of elephants near Minneriya Tank, which attracts 150–300 elephants during the dry season. You might also spot other wildlife like Sri Lankan Leopards, Sloth Bears, Sambar Deer, and buffaloes. After the safari, return to your hotel in Sigiriya for an overnight stay.
Begin your day with a visit to the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This iconic landmark is also known as the Lion Rock due to the giant lion gateway that was built halfway up the rock by King Kashyapa. After climbing to the summit and admiring the breathtaking views, continue your journey
Your next destination is the Dambulla Cave Temple—the largest and best-preserved cave temple in Sri Lanka. Adorned with numerous murals and 157 statues, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a must-see
Continue your journey with a visit to Matale, where you can explore a spice garden and learn about the use of various spices in Sri Lankan cuisine and Ayurvedic medicine. After that, make a quick stop at the Matale Muthumariamman Temple, an impressive Hindu temple dedicated to the goddess of rain and fertility.
Reach Kandy in the evening, check into your hotel, and enjoy your stay in this beautiful city
On Day 4, you’ll explore the scenic and culturally rich city of Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the sacred tooth relic of the Buddha and is revered by Buddhists all over the world. Next, head to the Bahirawakanda Temple, where you can marvel at the giant Buddha statue overlooking the city.
Continue to the Kandy Viewpoint for panoramic views of the city, and then explore the local market, where you can shop for souvenirs and local products. The next stop is the National Gems and Gemmological Museum, which displays a variety of precious gems native to Sri Lanka. Later, visit the beautiful Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, which features over 4,000 species of plants and a stunning collection of orchids
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance Show before heading back to your hotel in Kandy.
Depart from Kandy and head towards the scenic hill town of Ella. En route, you’ll make a few stops, including the stunning Ramboda Falls, which cascades down from a height of 109 meters. You’ll also visit the Damro Labookellie Tea Centre and Tea Garden, where you can tour the factory and sample some of Sri Lanka’s finest tea.
Your next stop is Nuwara Eliya, a charming town known for its cool climate and picturesque landscapes. Visit Gregory Lake, where you can take a boat ride or just relax by the waterside. Then, proceed to the Nuwara Eliya post office, an architectural gem that is one of the oldest post offices in Sri Lanka
After that, board the train at Nanu Oya Railway Station for a scenic journey to Ella. This train ride is known as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world, offering spectacular views of lush tea plantations, mountains, and dense forests. Upon arrival in Ella, check into your hotel and relax for the night.
Begin your day with a visit to the Nine Arch Bridge, a stunning viaduct bridge constructed during the Colonial era, offering a fantastic viewpoint for photography enthusiasts. Next, embark on a hike to Little Adam’s Peak. The ascent is fairly easy and rewards you with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, lush greenery, and tea plantations.
Afterward, experience a thrilling adventure at the Flying Ravana Zip Line, the first twin zip-line in Sri Lanka that offers a bird’s-eye view of Ella’s breathtaking landscapes. Return to your hotel in Ella for an overnight stay.
Leave Ella in the morning and head to Yala National Park, one of the best places to spot the elusive Sri Lankan Leopard. En route, stop at Rawana Falls, a stunning waterfall known for its scenic beauty and historical significance.
In the afternoon, embark on a Jeep safari through Yala National Park. Besides leopards, the park is home to elephants, sloth bears, deer, and a variety of bird species. After an exciting day of wildlife spotting, head back to your hotel for the night.
After breakfast, depart from Yala and travel to the coastal town of Galle. En route, stop at Hummanaya Blowhole, the second-largest blowhole in the world, where water is forced high into the air through a natural rock formation.
Upon reaching Galle, explore the Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that dates back to the 16th century. Walk along the ramparts, visit the Galle Lighthouse, and stroll through the charming streets lined with colonial-era buildings, boutique shops, and cafes. Overnight stay in Galle.
Leave Galle and drive to the beautiful beach town of Bentota. En route, visit the Turtle Hatchery, where you can learn about sea turtle conservation efforts and see baby turtles up close.
In Bentota, relax on the pristine beaches, or engage in water sports like snorkeling, jet-skiing, or indsurfing. You can also take a boat ride on the Bentota River to explore its rich mangrove ecosystem. Overnight stay in Bentota.
On your final day, depart from Bentota and head to Colombo, the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. Enjoy a Colombo city tour, where you’ll visit landmarks like the Galle Face Green, Independence Square, and Gangaramaya Temple. Explore the vibrant streets, shop for souvenirs, or indulge in some delicious Sri Lankan cuisine.
After the city tour, you’ll be driven to Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure, marking the end of your 10-day journey with Ceylon Waves.
