Sri Lanka Central Highlands Adventure: 5 Days

Day 1: Arrival in Colombo

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo, you will be warmly greeted by your chauffeur guide, who will assist you with your transfer to a comfortable 4-star hotel in Colombo, approximately a one-hour drive from the airport. After checking in, take some time to relax and unwind at the hotel. Enjoy your first breakfast in Sri Lanka as you prepare for the adventures ahead.

Day 2: Colombo to Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive to Nuwara Eliya, which takes around five hours. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to stop at the picturesque Devon and St. Claire’s waterfalls, renowned for their beauty. Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a delightful city tour of this charming town, surrounded by rolling hills and lush tea plantations. With its spring-like climate year-round, Nuwara Eliya is a favorite retreat for travelers. The town’s colonial-era architecture, featuring English country-style houses and charming bungalows, adds to its allure. Spend the night in Nuwara Eliya, taking in the serene surroundings.

Day 3: Horton Plains National Park

Make an early start to your day with a pre-dawn visit to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided nature walk along the park’s trails, leading you to a stunning viewpoint known as World’s End. As you hike, keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including endemic species such as the rhino-horned and hump-nosed lizards, and various highland birds like the Sri Lankan white-eye and dull-blue flycatcher. Your journey continues to Baker’s Falls, a beautiful waterfall named after the famous explorer Sir Samuel Baker. In the afternoon, visit a local tea plantation and the Pedro Tea Factory, where you’ll learn about the tea production process and its significance to Sri Lanka’s economy. You’ll even have the chance to pluck fresh tea leaves in the gardens. Return to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya for an overnight stay.

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya to Kandy

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, you will be driven to Kandy, which takes approximately three hours. Upon arrival, embark on a captivating city tour of Kandy, a city known for its rich cultural heritage. Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a significant Buddhist site housing one of the most venerated relics in the Buddhist world. Explore the picturesque upper lake, the bustling market square, and a gem lapidary to discover the exquisite gemstones for which Sri Lanka is famous. Enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Kandy, and spend the night at a comfortable 4-star hotel.

Day 5: Departure

As your memorable journey across Sri Lanka comes to a close, savor your final breakfast in this enchanting country. Reflect on the incredible experiences and beautiful sights you’ve encountered during your tour. You will be safely driven back to the airport, where you can catch your flight home, filled with cherished memories and a deeper appreciation for the natural and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka.