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Eager to catch a glimpse of Sri Lanka’s enchanting beauty? The “Essence of Sri Lanka” tour is your perfect gateway to experiencing the charm, magnificence, and breathtaking landscapes of this paradise island. Prepare yourself for a journey filled with unforgettable moments as you explore a blend of history, culture, traditions, festivals, architecture, and stunning natural scenery at each of our handpicked destinations.
This tour promises a collection of unique experiences that you’ll cherish forever. From marveling at the towering central hills and weaving through valleys of lush green mountains to discovering the rich history of magnificent temples and scaling world heritage sites like ancient rock fortresses, you’ll be immersed in the essence of Sri Lanka. Whether trekking to capture incredible panoramic views, embarking on an adrenaline-packed jeep safari through the wilderness, or soaking up the vibrant energy of the city, this tour offers a taste of the island’s most spectacular destinations and scenic attractions, each with its own story to tell.
Join us on this carefully crafted tour, featuring signature experiences from start to finish, all thoughtfully designed with you in mind.
CMB – Katunayake International Airport (Negombo)
CMB – Katunayake International Airport or Colombo
As you arrive, an ASY Tours representative will warmly greet you at the airport, setting the tone for an exciting adventure on this beautiful tropical isle. Your first destination is Minneriya, where a thrilling jeep safari awaits.
Lunch at the Hotel
After a scenic 4-hour drive from the airport, you will arrive in Minneriya, ready for an exhilarating evening jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. This park, located 182 km from Colombo in Sri Lanka’s North Central Plains, is a treasure trove of diverse wildlife and breathtaking scenery. The highlight of the park is the massive Minneriya Rainwater Reservoir, where you’ll witness the famed elephant gathering—a truly unforgettable experience. The park is home to 24 species of mammals, over 170 species of birds, and 25 species of reptiles, eight of which are endemic to Sri Lanka. After an unforgettable 3-hour adventure, you will take a picturesque drive to Habarana, where you will check into your hotel, enjoy a delicious dinner, and relax for the night.
Overnight stay in Negombo Sigiriya
Start your day early with a climb to Sri Lanka’s most iconic rock fortress—Sigiriya. This awe-inspiring “Lion Rock,” visible from miles away, is an archaeological marvel and a testament to Sri Lanka’s advanced city planning, water gardens, engineering, and fortification from the 5th century AD. As you explore, you’ll be amazed by the lush green gardens, intricate irrigation systems, and the famous frescoes and mirror wall. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is one of the most treasured historical landmarks in Sri Lanka.
After your climb, enjoy a picnic breakfast under a shady grove before continuing to the Hill Capital—Kandy.
En-route to Kandy, you’ll visit the Matale Spice Garden for Lunch.
Here, you’ll discover the rich history of Sri Lanka’s spice trade while enjoying a complimentary head massage. Located just 25 km from Kandy, this spice garden is renowned for its variety of spices, offering a fascinating insight into how they are grown and processed.
In the evening, immerse yourself in a colorful cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dances and vibrant costumes. After an in-house dinner, relax and unwind in Kandy.
Overnight stay in Kandy
After breakfast, embark on a city tour of Kandy, starting with a visit to The Sacred Tooth Relic temple—Kandy’s most revered attraction. The Esala Perahera, held in August each year, is a must-see festival that honors the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.
Following this, enjoy a serene drive around Kandy Lake, taking in the tranquil beauty of the surroundings. Next, you’ll visit the Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, a 57-hectare garden known for its stunning collection of tropical flora, rare herbs, and exotic plant species.
After lunch under the shady orchards, you’ll journey to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s bustling commercial hub. Here, you’ll experience the vibrant city life on a tour of Fort and Pettah, covering key landmarks such as Galle Face Green, the old parliament, the lighthouse clock tower, Colombo harbour, Gangarama Temple on the Beira Lake, Independence Square, and Viharamahadevi Park.
After soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere, enjoy dinner and a comfortable overnight stay in Colombo.
Overnight stay in Colombo
Today marks the end of your memorable adventure in Sri Lanka. After a lavish breakfast, you’ll proceed to the airport for departure. If your flight is scheduled for later in the day, we will arrange a special Sri Lankan dinner with a local family, offering a perfect end to your journey.
