DAY 01: ARRIVAL IN PARADISE - AIRPORT – ANURADHAPURA

On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly welcomed by a representative of CYRIL TOURS and begin your journey to Anuradhapura, the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka and one of the country's most treasured UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Enjoy the scenic drive through the Sri Lankan countryside before arriving at your hotel. After check-in, spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relaxing after your flight and enjoying the peaceful natural surroundings of the hotel.

Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.

DAY 02 – DISCOVER THE SACRED CITY OF ANURADHAPURA & MIHINTALE

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating exploration of Anuradhapura, the magnificent first capital of ancient Sri Lanka. Founded in the 4th century BC, this UNESCO World Heritage Site remained the island's political and religious capital for over 1,300 years and is one of the world's oldest continuously inhabited cities.

Discover the city's impressive collection of ancient monasteries, colossal stupas, royal gardens, and remarkable engineering achievements that reflect the grandeur of Sri Lanka's ancient civilization.

Highlights of today's sightseeing include:

• Sri Maha Bodhi Tree – the world's oldest historically documented living tree, grown from a sacred sapling of the Bodhi Tree under which Lord Buddha attained Enlightenment more than 2,200 years ago.
• Ruwanwelisaya – one of Sri Lanka's most magnificent and revered stupas.
• Thuparamaya – the country's first Buddhist stupa, believed to enshrine the Buddha's right collarbone relic.
• Jetavanaramaya – once among the tallest brick monuments ever built in the ancient world.
• Abhayagiri Monastery – an important centre of Buddhist learning and culture.
• Twin Ponds (Kuttam Pokuna) – masterpieces of ancient hydraulic engineering.
• Moonstone – beautifully carved semi-circular stone entrances showcasing remarkable craftsmanship.
• Mirisawetiya Stupa and several other sacred monuments.

Continue to Isurumuniya Rock Temple, renowned for its beautiful rock carvings, tranquil surroundings, and the famous "Isurumuniya Lovers" sculpture, considered one of Sri Lanka's finest examples of ancient stone artistry.

In the afternoon, visit Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It was here in 247 BC that Arahat Mahinda, son of the Indian Emperor Ashoka, met King Devanampiyatissa and introduced Buddhism to the island. Climb the ancient granite stairway to enjoy magnificent panoramic views while exploring sacred temples, stupas, and meditation sites.

After a memorable day of discovery, return to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Anuradhapura.

Recommended: Wear comfortable walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and carry drinking water. Modest clothing is required when visiting religious sites.

DAY 03 – ANURADHAPURA – TRINCOMALEE (EAST COAST) 

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and travel to Trincomalee, one of the finest beach destinations on Sri Lanka's beautiful east coast. Blessed with powdery white sandy beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and one of the world's largest natural deep-water harbours, Trincomalee offers the perfect combination of history, culture, and tropical relaxation.

Upon arrival, check in to your beach resort and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. Relax by the beach, take a refreshing swim in the warm Indian Ocean, or simply unwind while enjoying the peaceful coastal atmosphere.

Overnight stay in Trincomalee.

Optional excursions during your stay in Trincomalee:

• Visit the sacred Koneswaram Hindu Temple, dramatically situated atop Swami Rock overlooking the Indian Ocean.
• Snorkel around the vibrant coral reefs of Pigeon Island National Park, home to colourful tropical fish, sea turtles, and blacktip reef sharks.
• Enjoy an exciting dolphin or whale watching boat excursion (seasonal).
• Visit the unique Kanniya Hot Water Wells.
• Explore Fort Frederick and the fascinating Maritime & Naval History Museum.
• Discover the charming town of Trincomalee and its local markets. 

DAY 04 - LEISURE ON THE EAST COAST

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and spend the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Trincomalee. With its soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and peaceful atmosphere, the east coast is the perfect place to unwind and soak up the tropical sunshine.

You may relax by the swimming pool, enjoy the beach, or take part in optional water sports and sightseeing activities.

Overnight stay in Trincomalee.

DAY 05 – LEISURE IN TRINCOMALEE

After breakfast, enjoy another relaxing day at your beach resort.

Spend the day at your own pace, swimming in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, strolling along the beach, or simply relaxing while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.

For those seeking adventure, a variety of optional excursions and water-based activities are available to make the most of your stay on Sri Lanka's spectacular east coast.

Overnight stay in Trincomalee.

DAY 06 – TRINCOMALEE – HABARANA

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and travel to Habarana, located in the heart of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle. Surrounded by lush forests, lakes, and abundant wildlife, Habarana is an ideal base for exploring the country's ancient wonders.

Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and enjoy some time at leisure.

In the late afternoon or evening, you may choose from the following optional experiences:

• Minneriya National Park Jeep Safari – Experience an exciting wildlife safari through one of Sri Lanka's most famous national parks, renowned for its large gatherings of wild Asian elephants, deer, monkeys, crocodiles, and a wide variety of birdlife. (The safari may also operate at Kaudulla or Eco Park depending on seasonal elephant movements.)
• Traditional Ayurvedic Herbal Massage – Relax and rejuvenate with an authentic Sri Lankan Ayurvedic wellness treatment.
• Traditional Cultural Dance Performance – Witness an energetic performance featuring traditional Kandyan dancing, drumming, fire walking, and cultural rituals.

Overnight stay in Habarana.

DAY 07 – HABARANA – SIGIRIYA – POLONNARUWA – HABARANA 

After an early breakfast, proceed to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built by King Kashyapa I (477–495 AD), this magnificent 5th-century fortress rises nearly 200 metres above the surrounding plains and is often referred to as the "Lion Rock."

Climb to the summit while exploring the remarkable remains of the ancient royal citadel. Along the way, admire the beautifully landscaped Royal Water Gardens, terraced gardens, moats, and ramparts, which showcase the advanced engineering skills of ancient Sri Lanka. Visit the world-famous Sigiriya Frescoes, known as the "Heavenly Maidens," painted with natural earth pigments over 1,500 years ago. Continue past the impressive Mirror Wall and the enormous Lion's Paws before reaching the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views and the ruins of King Kashyapa's palace await.

Following your visit, you may enjoy an optional Village Tour (Traditional Village Experience).

Optional – Village Tour (Traditional Village Experience)

Experience the authentic rural lifestyle of Sri Lanka with a memorable village tour in the Habarana or Sigiriya area. Travel through the countryside by three-wheeler, continue on a traditional bullock cart, and enjoy a peaceful catamaran ride across a scenic village lake. Walk through local farms and meet friendly villagers while learning about their daily way of life.

If you choose the tour with lunch, you will be treated to a delicious home-cooked Sri Lankan meal served on a lotus leaf inside a traditional mud house. Watch village women prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes using age-old cooking methods and fresh local ingredients, offering a truly unique cultural experience.

After the village tour, continue to Polonnaruwa, the second ancient capital of Sri Lanka and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Flourishing between the 11th and 13th centuries, Polonnaruwa is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved archaeological treasures, reflecting the brilliance of Sri Lanka's medieval civilization.

Explore the impressive Royal Palace, the Sacred Quadrangle, the magnificent Vatadage, Rankoth Vehera, Lankatilaka Image House, and the famous Gal Vihara, where four spectacular Buddha statues have been carved from a single granite rock. You will also discover ancient reservoirs, beautifully landscaped gardens, and remarkable stone carvings that demonstrate the sophisticated architecture and engineering of the Polonnaruwa Kingdom.

After an enriching day exploring Sri Lanka's ancient heritage, return to your hotel in Habarana.

Optional – Traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic Herbal Massage

After a day of sightseeing, unwind with a traditional Sri Lankan Ayurvedic Herbal Massage, a centuries-old healing practice based on the island's ancient Ayurvedic medical tradition. Performed by experienced therapists using warm herbal oils made from natural medicinal plants, this therapeutic treatment helps relieve muscle tension, improve blood circulation, reduce stress, and restore balance to both body and mind.

Whether you choose a full-body massage or a relaxing foot and shoulder treatment, this rejuvenating wellness experience is the perfect way to refresh yourself before continuing your journey through Sri Lanka.

Overnight stay in Habarana.

DAY 08 - HABARANA – DAMBULLA – MATALE – KANDY

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and proceed to Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beautifully surrounded by misty hills, lush forests, and tea plantations.

Your first stop is the magnificent Dambulla Golden Rock Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. Dating back to the 1st century BC, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The five sacred caves house over 150 Buddha statues, magnificent wall murals, and colourful ceiling paintings depicting the life of Lord Buddha. Perched atop a massive granite rock, the temple also offers breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Continue to Nalanda Gedige, one of Sri Lanka's most fascinating and mysterious ancient monuments. Believed to have been built between the 8th and 10th centuries, this unique stone temple combines both Buddhist and Hindu architectural styles, making it one of the country's finest examples of cultural harmony. Situated close to the geographical centre of Sri Lanka, Nalanda Gedige is admired for its beautifully carved stone sculptures and peaceful surroundings.

Proceed to Matale to visit a Spice and Herbal Garden, where you will learn about Sri Lanka's world-renowned spices and medicinal herbs. Discover how cinnamon, pepper, cardamom, cloves, nutmeg, vanilla, and other spices are cultivated and processed. You will also gain insight into Ayurveda, Sri Lanka's ancient holistic healing tradition, and the medicinal uses of indigenous herbs and plants.

Optional: Enjoy a relaxing Ayurvedic herbal massage using warm natural oils prepared from locally grown medicinal plants. This soothing treatment helps relieve fatigue, improve circulation, and rejuvenate both body and mind.

Continue towards Kandy with the opportunity to visit:

• Batik Factory – Observe the traditional art of Sri Lankan batik making, where colourful fabrics are hand-crafted using the centuries-old wax-resist dyeing technique.
• Gem Museum and Showroom (Optional) – Discover why Sri Lanka is known as the "Island of Gems." Learn about the mining, cutting, and polishing of precious gemstones, including the world-famous Ceylon Blue Sapphire, ruby, cat's eye, and other rare gems.

Upon arrival in Kandy, check in to your hotel.

If time permits, enjoy a leisurely walk around the picturesque Kandy Lake, created by the last King of Sri Lanka in 1807, or explore the vibrant local market, where you can experience the daily life and culture of this charming hill capital.

Overnight stay in Kandy.

DAY 09 – EXPLORE THE CULTURAL CITY OF KANDY 

After breakfast, enjoy a halkf a day exploration of Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nestled among misty hills and centred around the picturesque Kandy Lake, the city is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and spiritual significance.

Your sightseeing tour includes:

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa)

Visit Sri Lanka's most revered Buddhist temple, which houses the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. This magnificent temple complex is one of the country's most important places of worship and attracts pilgrims from around the world. Admire its beautiful Kandyan architecture, intricate wood carvings, and peaceful atmosphere.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

Explore the world-famous Royal Botanical Gardens, covering nearly 150 acres and home to more than 4,000 species of tropical plants, colourful orchids, towering royal palms, medicinal herbs, spices, and giant bamboo. Originally established as a royal pleasure garden, it is now one of Asia's finest botanical gardens.

Kandy Lake

Take a leisurely stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, an artificial lake built in 1807 by the last King of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by lush greenery and historic landmarks, it offers wonderful photo opportunities.

Kandy View Point (Upper Lake Drive)

Perched on a hill overlooking the historic city of Kandy, Kandy View Point is one of the city's most popular scenic attractions. It offers breathtaking panoramic views of the beautiful Kandy Lake, the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), lush green hills, and the vibrant city below.

This viewpoint is an ideal place to capture stunning photographs, especially during sunrise, sunset, or after dusk when the city lights create a magical atmosphere. Visitors can relax, enjoy the cool mountain breeze, and appreciate the unique blend of nature, history, and culture that makes Kandy one of Sri Lanka's most cherished destinations.

A visit to Kandy View Point provides an unforgettable perspective of this UNESCO World Heritage City and is a perfect stop for anyone wishing to experience the beauty and charm of Sri Lanka's hill capital.

Enjoy spectacular panoramic views over Kandy city, the surrounding mountains, and the shimmering lake from one of the city's most popular viewpoints.

Kandy City Tour

Drive through the historic city centre, passing colonial-era buildings, bustling local markets, traditional shopping streets, and important landmarks while experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of Sri Lanka's cultural capital.

Gem Museum and Lapidary

Visit a renowned Gem Museum, Lapidary & Showroom to discover why Sri Lanka is celebrated as the "Island of Gems." World-famous for its exceptional gemstones, particularly the legendary Ceylon Blue Sapphire, the island has supplied some of the world's most magnificent gems for centuries.

During your visit, learn about the fascinating journey of a gemstone—from traditional mining and extraction to cutting, polishing, and transforming rough stones into exquisite works of art. Watch skilled craftsmen demonstrate the precision and craftsmanship involved in creating fine jewelry, while exploring exhibits such as a model gem mine, lapidary workshop, and museum displays that showcase Sri Lanka's rich gem heritage.

The showroom features an impressive collection of certified precious and semi-precious gemstones, including Blue Sapphires, Rubies, Padparadscha Sapphires, Cat's Eye, Alexandrite, and Moonstones, expertly crafted into elegant jewelry. Visitors have the opportunity to browse or purchase authentic gemstones and jewelry with confidence, accompanied by internationally recognized certification where available

Batik and Wood Carving Centre

Visit a traditional Batik Factory, where skilled artisans create beautifully hand-crafted fabrics using the ancient wax-resist dyeing technique. You may also visit a Wood Carving Centre to admire the craftsmanship of Sri Lankan artisans and their intricate handmade creations.

After all, return to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Kandy.

DAY 10 – KANDY – NUWARA ELIYA (HILL COUNTRY) 

After breakfast, check out from the hotel and journey into the cool, misty mountains of Sri Lanka's beautiful Hill Country. As you ascend through winding roads, enjoy breathtaking scenery of rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, picturesque valleys, and charming hillside villages.

Option 1 – Scenic Train Journey (Recommended)

Experience one of the world's most spectacular railway journeys as you travel by train from Kandy (or Nanu Oya, depending on train schedules and ticket availability). This unforgettable journey passes through lush tea estates, mist-covered mountains, dense forests, dramatic bridges, waterfalls, and quaint rural villages, offering endless opportunities for photography.

While you enjoy the train journey, your chauffeur-guide will travel separately by road with your luggage and will meet you at Nanu Oya Railway Station upon your arrival before transferring you to your hotel in Nuwara Eliya.

Please note: Train tickets are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed, especially during peak travel periods.

Option 2 – Scenic Drive through the Hill Country

If the train journey is unavailable or you wants to skip it (Sometimes you may wish to use train journey from Nuwaraeliya to Ella), continue by road through some of Sri Lanka's most scenic landscapes. Along the way, stop at a Tea Plantation and Tea Factory, where you will learn about the fascinating process of producing the world-famous Ceylon Tea—from hand-picking the tender tea leaves to withering, rolling, drying, grading, and packaging. Conclude your visit with a freshly brewed cup of premium Ceylon Tea while overlooking the surrounding tea-covered hills.

You may also stop to admire beautiful waterfalls such as Ramboda Falls and enjoy several scenic viewpoints along the route.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as "Little England," explore this charming colonial hill station known for its cool climate, Tudor-style architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and peaceful atmosphere.

If time permits, enjoy a leisurely visit to Gregory Lake, where you can relax beside the water or take a pleasant lakeside walk, followed by a short tour of the town centre.

Check in to your hotel and enjoy the cool mountain air.

Please inform to reception about your packeted breakfast packets to go to Horton plains tomorrow early morning and settle all payments.

Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.

DAY 11 -NUWARAELIYA - HORTON PLAINS - KITULGALA - COLOMBO 

Collect your breakfast from the reception, check out from your hotel and proceed to Horton Plains National Park, one of Sri Lanka's most spectacular natural treasures and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Situated at an elevation of over 2,100 meters (6,900 feet) above sea level, this unique montane plateau is home to mist-covered grasslands, cloud forests, crystal-clear streams, and an exceptional variety of endemic flora and fauna.

Embark on a memorable guided walk through the park's breathtaking landscapes. Along the trail, encounter fascinating wildlife such as sambar deer, purple-faced langurs, giant squirrels, and numerous endemic bird species. The highlight of the visit is the iconic World's End, a dramatic escarpment with a sheer drop of nearly 870 meters (2,850 feet), offering spectacular panoramic views across the southern plains on clear mornings. Continue to the picturesque Baker's Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush forest and named after the British explorer Sir Samuel Baker.

After exploring Horton Plains, continue your journey towards Colombo via the scenic mountain roads leading to Kitulgala. This picturesque drive winds through rolling tea plantations, misty mountain ranges, dense rainforests, cascading waterfalls, charming villages, and winding rivers, offering countless opportunities to admire the natural beauty of Sri Lanka's central highlands.

Arrive in Kitulgala, a tranquil riverside town nestled within the tropical rainforest along the banks of the Kelani River. Surrounded by lush greenery, Kitulgala is renowned as Sri Lanka's premier destination for adventure tourism and is internationally famous as the filming location of the Academy Award-winning movie "The Bridge on the River Kwai."

For adventure enthusiasts, enjoy an exciting White Water Rafting experience on the Kelani River. Guided by experienced professionals and equipped with modern safety gear, the rafting adventure takes you through a series of exhilarating rapids interspersed with calm stretches, allowing you to experience both the thrill of the river and the breathtaking beauty of the surrounding rainforest. Whether you choose to participate in rafting or simply relax by the riverside, Kitulgala offers a refreshing blend of adventure, nature, and tranquility.

After your visit, continue your journey to Colombo, arriving in the evening for check-in at your hotel.

COLOMBO - AIRPORT

As your nearly two-week journey in Sri Lanka comes to a close, we bid you farewell with fond memories of your time spent here. We sincerely hope that your experiences have been enriching and enjoyable. We encourage you to provide any feedback or suggestions regarding your travels, as we are committed to continuously improving our services.

Please be advised that the departure time for your flight is fast approaching, and we kindly remind you to make necessary arrangements to be at the airport at least 2.30 hours before your scheduled flight time. If there are any last-minute activities or attractions you wish to visit before your departure, please do not hesitate to inform us so that we can assist you accordingly.

Package including

•          Transport provides by an air-conditioned, fully insured, private luxury vehicle.

•          The service of an experienced English-speaking chauffeur guide.

•          Accommodation at above mentioned hotels or similar. (All 4 star & 5 star)

•          Meals Half board (Breakfast and dinner included)

•          Unlimited drinking water while you are in the vehicle,

•          Chauffeur Guide's accommodation and fuel.

•          All parking, Expressway tolls, Airport entry, parking & paging.

•          All taxes up to date.

Package not including of:

•          Air ticket, Visa (You can apply visa online by this link http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/)

•          Travel insurance,

•          Supplements at hotels due to special venues,

•          Any other meal and beverages not mentioned above.

•          Additional transfers, sightseeing.

•          Early check in or late checkout charges.

•          Expenses of personal nature.

•          Tips and Porterage

•          Any other services not specified above.

Important Travel Information for Sri Lanka

o          Train Travel

Train tickets must be purchased exactly one month prior to the travel date. To secure tickets, your passport number is required, as it must be presented to the station officer. Passengers without a passport will not be permitted to board.

o          Temple Visits

We recommend bringing a pair of slippers for temple visits, as footwear is not permitted inside for both men and women. Slippers are easier to remove than shoes.

o          Dress Code for Temples

Sleeveless shirts, T-shirts, and short pants are not permitted. However, three-quarter length trousers are acceptable for both men and women.

Important: This quotation is prepared based on the existing government taxes and the exchange rates applicable today. In the event of any revisions, the difference will be added to the final bill.