A compact five-day snapshot of Sri Lanka’s very best – Kandy’s cultural landmarks, the extraordinary highland scenery of Nuwara Eliya, the celebrated scenic train journey to Ella and a relaxed coastal finale at Bentota. Every day earns its place in the sequence. Nothing included that is not genuinely worth the time.
DAY
01
Bandaranaike International Airport to Kandy via Pinnawala - Elephants & Temple Evening
Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport. Transfer toward Kandy with an en route stop at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Arrive in Kandy. Evening guided visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic during the puja ceremony. Traditional Kandyan cultural performance. Overnight in Kandy.
DAY
02
Kandy to Nuwara Eliya - Gardens, Lake & Tea Country Ascent
Morning at the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Walk the lakeside promenade and explore Kandy’s colonial market quarter. Scenic mountain drive into Nuwara Eliya through the tea estates. Stop at a working tea factory with guided tour and tasting. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya and explore the hill-station town. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
DAY
03
Nuwara Eliya to Ella - Iconic Scenic Train Journey
Scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella – one of the most celebrated rail journeys in Asia, winding through mountain valleys and tea estate after tea estate. Arrive in Ella and explore Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak. Overnight in Ella.
DAY
04
Ella to Bentota - Highland Descent & Mangrove Safari
Scenic drive down from the highlands toward the coast. Arrive in Bentota by midday. Afternoon Madu River mangrove boat safari. Water sports on the Bentota River. Relaxed evening by the Indian Ocean. Overnight in Bentota.
DAY
05
Bentota to Colombo - Coastal Drive & Departure
Morning at leisure in Bentota. Scenic coastal drive north to Colombo. Shopping stop if desired. Airport transfer and departure.
Tour Highlights
– Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage morning river bathing
– Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic evening puja visit
– Kandyan cultural dance and fire performance
– Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens
– Working tea factory visit and tasting, Nuwara Eliya
– Nanu Oya to Ella scenic train journey
– Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, Ella
– Madu River mangrove boat safari
– Bentota River water sports
Inclusions
- Private air-conditioned vehicle throughout
- Accommodation (booked by Guardian Holidays)
- Meals on HB Basis (Breakfast + Dinner)
- Experienced English-speaking chauffeur-guide
- All entrance fees for listed attractions
- Airport arrival and departure transfers
- Bottled water throughout the journey
- Nanu Oya to Ella train tickets
- Madu River boat safari
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
- Meals: Lunch
- Personal expenses and shopping
- Gratuities for guide and hotel staff
- Travel insurance
- Activities marked as optional within the itinerary
- Visa fees