The Essence of Sri Lanka: A 13-Day Adventure

13 Days
  • A/C Vehicles
  • Katunayaka
  • Easy to Moderate
  • 4**** Hotels
  • All meals during the trip
  • A guide is provided by Cresta Holidays
  • Nature friendly, Safari, Beach exploring, Cultural

Trip Overview

A captivating 13-day journey through Sri Lanka showcasing its rich culture, historical wonders, wildlife, and serene landscapes. From the cultural depths of Jaffna to the scenic beauty of Nuwara Eliya and the untamed wilderness of Yala, this itinerary ensures an unforgettable experience.

Trip Highlights

  • Lagoon views, serene beaches, relaxation
  • Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Jaffna Fort
  • Jaffna Library, Keerimalai Sacred Pond, Casuarina Beach
  • Delft Island, Nagadeepa Temple, Point Pedro
  • Koneswaram Temple, Nilaveli Beach
  • Whale watching (seasonal), snorkeling, hot wells of Kanniyai
  • Temple of the Tooth Relic, cultural dance performance
  • Tea plantations, Gregory Lake, colonial charm
  • Safari in Yala National Park
  • Galle Fort, Madu River safari
  • Turtle hatchery, water sports, spa treatments
  • Last-minute shopping, airport transfer

Itinerary

• Highlights: Lagoon views, serene beaches, relaxation
• Distance: ~100 km | Time: 2 hours
• Accommodation: Anantaya Resort, Chillaw
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Touch down at Bandaranaike International Airport, where your Sri Lankan adventure begins. A scenic drive takes you to Chillaw, a peaceful coastal town. Check into the luxurious Anantaya Resort, set amidst tranquil lagoons and sandy beaches. Spend the evening unwinding after your journey, enjoying breathtaking sunset views.

• Highlights: Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Jaffna Fort
• Distance: ~300 km | Time: 6–7 hours
• Accommodation: Jetwing Jaffna
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Journey to the vibrant northern city of Jaffna, a treasure trove of Tamil culture. After check-in at Jetwing Jaffna, explore the grand Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, known for its intricate Dravidian architecture. End the day with a visit to the colonial-era Jaffna Fort, overlooking the lagoon.

• Highlights: Jaffna Library, Keerimalai Sacred Pond, Casuarina Beach
• Accommodation: Jetwing Jaffna
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Dive deep into Jaffna's heritage with a visit to the iconic Jaffna Public Library, a symbol of resilience. Then, explore Keerimalai Sacred Pond, believed to have healing powers. Conclude your day with a relaxing evening at Casuarina Beach, famous for its pristine sands and calm waters.

• Highlights: Delft Island, Nagadeepa Temple, Point Pedro
• Accommodation: Jetwing Jaffna
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Embark on a ferry ride to Delft Island, renowned for its wild ponies and coral walls. Visit Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, a sacred Buddhist site, and explore Point Pedro, Sri Lanka's northernmost tip, offering picturesque coastal views.

• Highlights: Koneswaram Temple, Nilaveli Beach
• Distance: ~220 km | Time: 5 hours
• Accommodation: Trinco Blu by Cinnamon
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Travel to Trincomalee, home to stunning beaches and cultural treasures. Check into Trinco Blu by Cinnamon. Spend your afternoon at Nilaveli Beach or visit the magnificent Koneswaram Temple, perched atop Swami Rock.

• Highlights: Whale watching (seasonal), snorkeling, hot wells of Kanniyai
• Accommodation: Trinco Blu by Cinnamon
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Indulge in optional whale-watching tours or snorkeling trips to Pigeon Island National Park. Later, visit the hot wells of Kanniyai, believed to have curative properties, and unwind at your leisure.

• Highlights: Temple of the Tooth Relic, cultural dance performance
• Distance: ~230 km | Time: 5.5 hours
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Kandy]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Head to the hill capital of Kandy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, housing one of Buddhism’s holiest artifacts. Conclude your day with a cultural dance performance showcasing Sri Lanka's traditions.

• Highlights: Tea plantations, Gregory Lake, colonial charm
• Distance: ~75 km | Time: 2.5 hours
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Nuwara Eliya]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Drive through misty hills to Nuwara Eliya, known as "Little England." Explore lush tea estates, stroll around Gregory Lake, and admire the town's colonial-era architecture.

• Highlights: Safari in Yala National Park
• Distance: ~150 km | Time: 4.5 hours
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Yala]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Travel to Yala National Park for an afternoon safari. Spot elusive leopards, majestic elephants, and a plethora of bird species in one of Sri Lanka's most popular wildlife reserves.

• Highlights: Galle Fort, Madu River safari
• Distance: ~230 km | Time: 5.5 hours
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Bentota]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
En route to Bentota, visit the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to Bentota, a haven for beach lovers, and unwind by the sea.

• Highlights: Turtle hatchery, water sports, spa treatments
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Bentota]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Spend two days relaxing on the golden sands of Bentota. Visit the turtle hatchery, enjoy water sports like jet skiing, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience.

• Highlights: Turtle hatchery, water sports, spa treatments
• Accommodation: [Suggested Hotel in Bentota]
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Spend two days relaxing on the golden sands of Bentota. Visit the turtle hatchery, enjoy water sports like jet skiing, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating spa experience.

Day 13 :
Departure

• Highlights: Last-minute shopping, airport transfer
• Distance: ~110 km | Time: 2 hours
• Meal Plan: Bed & Breakfast
Description:
Bid farewell to the island as you are transferred to the airport for your return journey. Take back cherished memories of a magical adventure in Sri Lanka.

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The Essence of Sri Lanka: A 13-Day Adventure
  • A/C Vehicles
  • Katunayaka
  • Easy to Moderate
  • 4**** Hotels
  • All meals during the trip
  • A guide is provided by Cresta Holidays
  • Nature friendly, Safari, Beach exploring, Cultural