Ancient ruins, elephant-filled national parks, and sun-drenched beaches — this 8-day journey blends Sri Lanka’s rich heritage with its stunning southern coastline, from the iconic rock fortress of Sigiriya to the hidden coves of Hiriketiya and the colonial grandeur of Galle Fort.
Once you arrive in Sri Lanka, you will have to collect your luggage, clear customs and come to a public arrival lounge, where you will meet your chauffeur guide holding a signboard with your name on it.
Then, later we will drive towards Sigiriya which is about 3 hrs 30 mins aways from the airport.
Check-in to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: NA
Early Morning Visit to the Sigiriya Lion Rock to witness the sunrise.
Start the day with an early morning visit to Sigiriya Lion Rock to witness the sunrise. The second of our World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka is the Ancient City of Sigiriya. This predates the archaeological evidence of religious communities living in the area in at least the third century BC. It was built for King Kasyapa, the son of the previous king by a non-royal consort after he killed his father and seized the throne from his half-brother and heir. After his brother reclaimed the throne, he reinstated Anuradhapura as the capital city and left Sigiriya to the monks. The city became abandoned until colonial archaeologists found the site in the early 1800s. There are still large parts of the ancient city awaiting excavation. Come back to the Hotel and get breakfast.
Later in the day, head to the Minneriya National Park.
If you love elephants, then you’ll love Minneriya National Park, where you can see the largest known meeting place of Asian Elephants in the world. During August and September, the Great Elephant Gathering sees up to 350 elephants migrate from Wasgamuwa National Park to Minneriya in search of food, shelter, and to take advantage of the large Minneriya Tank, a huge 3rd-century reservoir.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast
Breakfast at the hotel.
Then we leave for our beach getaway – Unawatuna. The drive is about 6 hrs 30 mins from Sigiriya.
Unawatuna is one of Sri Lanka’s most beloved beach towns, renowned for its palm-fringed shoreline, turquoise waters, and coral reefs ideal for snorkeling. You can visit the nearby Japanese Peace Pagoda for serene ocean views or stroll along the beach to explore its many beachfront restaurants and relaxed atmosphere.
Later in the evening, Drive back to the Hotel.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.
Breakfast at the hotel.
We drive toward Hiriketiya Beach, which is about an hour and a half from Unawatuna. En route, we visit another beautiful beach—Mirissa, known for its crescent-shaped shoreline and whale-watching opportunities (optional depending on season).
Hiriketiya, often referred to as a hidden gem on the southern coast, is a small horseshoe-shaped bay offering a relaxed vibe and consistent waves, making it popular with surfers and beach lovers alike. Surrounded by lush jungle and dotted with beach cafés and yoga retreats, it’s a perfect escape for both adventure and relaxation.
Later in the evening, drive back to the hotel.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.
Breakfast at the hotel. Day dedicated to relaxation and seaside activities.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.
Today after breakfast, we head toward Galle, which is a 30-minute drive from Unawatuna.
Visit the Dutch Fort in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Galle Fort, located in the coastal city of Galle, is one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured historical monuments. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later extensively fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, the fort is a living monument that blends colonial European architecture with South Asian traditions. The fort boasts iconic features like the old clock tower, a still-functioning lighthouse, and bastions offering panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Its cobbled streets are lined with quaint cafés, art galleries, museums, and boutique shops, reflecting a vibrant multicultural heritage.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Today you can enjoy a city tour and shopping excursion in Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, Colombo. Explore the city inside and out; its contrasts of colonial charm and modern high-rises.
The city tour includes a drive through busy commercial areas as well as the tree-lined avenues of Cinnamon Gardens, one of Colombo’s most affluent neighborhoods. Visit Fort, once a British administrative and military stronghold, and Sea Street in Pettah, known for its bustling markets and goldsmiths. You may also explore key landmarks such as the Gangaramaya Temple, Independence Memorial Hall, and Galle Face Green.
Return to the hotel and relax in the evening.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.
Early morning drop-off at the airport for your departure flight.
Check in: 3 hrs before departure.
Overnight at the hotel. Meals Included: Breakfast.