Ancient Kingdoms to Southern Shores – 4 Days / 3 Nights

• Begin your adventure with a pickup from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), Colombo Port, or your hotel in Colombo/Negombo.
• Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - Your first cultural stop is the Golden Temple of Dambulla, perched on a granite outcrop.
  • Explore its five sanctified caves, adorned with over 150 Buddha statues, ancient murals, and colorful ceiling paintings.
  • The site offers panoramic views of the surrounding plains and is one of the most sacred Buddhist sites on the island.
• Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage Site) - Next, visit the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as the Lion Rock — a 5th-century royal citadel and engineering marvel.
  • Ascend via pathways flanked by water gardens, mirror wall inscriptions, and frescoes of celestial maidens.
  • At the summit, you'll be rewarded with sweeping jungle views and insight into one of Asia’s most advanced ancient city complexes.
• Optional: Pidurangala Rock Sunset Hike - If energy and time permit, opt for a sunset hike up Pidurangala Rock, just north of Sigiriya.
  • It’s a slightly more rugged climb but offers unparalleled views of Sigiriya Rock itself silhouetted against the evening sky.
  • Ideal for photography and a quieter, less-touristed experience.
• Evening Jeep Safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park - Conclude your day with a wildlife safari, departing around 3:00–3:30 PM, depending on timing.
  • Visit Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Hurulu Eco Park — your driver will choose the best park based on current elephant migration patterns.
  • Expect to see wild elephants, monkeys, deer, peacocks, and possibly even leopards or sloth bears.
• Overnight stay in Sigiriya or Habarana

Note: Choose either Sigiriya or Pidurangala if arrival is mid-morning or later to avoid exhaustion.

• Morning Departure to the South Coast - After breakfast, begin your scenic journey to Galle, Sri Lanka’s most iconic southern coastal city.
  • The drive takes approximately 5.5 to 6 hours with comfort breaks along the way.
  • Enjoy changing landscapes as you move from the cultural inland to the palm-lined shores of the Indian Ocean.
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• Explore Galle Dutch Fort & Old City - Arrive in Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a rich blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial architecture.
  • Stroll along the stone ramparts, admire the Galle Lighthouse, and explore cobbled streets filled with charming boutiques, galleries, and cafés.
  • Notable sites include the Dutch Reformed Church, Old Gate, and All Saints Church — each telling a story of the fort’s vibrant history.
• Optional Visits:
  • National Maritime Museum: Housed within the fort, this museum displays Sri Lanka’s maritime history, including artifacts from shipwrecks and colonial-era trade routes.
  • Japanese Peace Pagoda: Located just outside Galle, this white stupa on Rumassala Hill offers sweeping views of Galle Bay and the surrounding coastline. A peaceful spiritual site with serene surroundings.
• Relax at Unawatuna Beach - Spend your afternoon unwinding at Unawatuna Beach, just a short drive from Galle.
  • Swim in the calm waters, lounge under palm trees, or sip a tropical drink at a beachside café.
  • For those seeking more seclusion, a brief walk or tuk-tuk ride will take you to the hidden Jungle Beach nearby.
• Overnight stay in Galle or Unawatuna

• Early Morning Whale Watching Cruise – Mirissa Harbor - Begin your day with an unforgettable whale watching excursion, departing between 5:30–6:00 AM from Mirissa Harbor.
  • Set sail into the Indian Ocean in search of blue whales, sperm whales, spinner dolphins, and even flying fish.
  • Most tours last 3–5 hours, and boats are equipped with life jackets, observation decks, and experienced guides.

  Tip: If you're prone to seasickness, it’s wise to take motion sickness medication in advance.

• Visit Coconut Tree Hill & Parrot Rock - Head to two of Mirissa’s most photogenic coastal landmarks:
  • Coconut Tree Hill – A red earth bluff dotted with swaying palm trees, offering panoramic ocean views and perfect photo ops.
  • Parrot Rock – A small rock islet near the shore. Accessible during low tide, it offers great views of Mirissa Beach.

  Note: Parrot Rock requires careful footing when wet or during rising tides.

• Relax at Mirissa Beach (Optional Snorkeling or Surfing) - Enjoy free time at Mirissa Beach — ideal for sunbathing, sipping king coconuts, or enjoying fresh seafood.
  • Optional activities include snorkeling, surf lessons, or a massage by the sea.
  • The beach is beginner-friendly and offers a mix of lively and calm zones.
• Witness Traditional Stilt Fishermen (Near Koggala) - En route inland, stop briefly near Koggala or Ahangama to observe Sri Lanka’s iconic stilt fishermen.
  • Perched on narrow poles in shallow surf, they fish using a unique balancing method passed down through generations.
  • Best seen during low tide or early morning/late afternoon for photos and local interaction.
• Afternoon Jeep Safari – Udawalawe National Park - Travel to Udawalawe National Park for a jeep safari starting around 2:30–3:00 PM.
  • Known for its large elephant population, it’s also home to water buffalo, crocodiles, spotted deer, and hundreds of bird species.
  • Compared to Yala, Udawalawe is more elephant-focused and often less crowded, making for a rewarding and efficient wildlife experience.
• Overnight stay in Mirissa or Weligama

Note: Udawalawe is chosen for convenience; Yala is better suited to longer trips.

• Morning at Jungle Beach (Near Unawatuna) - Start your final day with a peaceful visit to Jungle Beach, a quiet cove surrounded by lush greenery just minutes from Unawatuna.
  • Ideal for a refreshing swim, snorkeling, or simply soaking in the morning calm before heading north.
• Transfer to Colombo - After your beach time, begin your journey back to Colombo, driving along the Southern Expressway.
  • Travel time: Approximately 3.5 hours, with optional stops for refreshments or photo opportunities along the way.
• Colombo City Highlights Tour (Time Permitting) - Explore Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, where colonial charm meets modern bustle. Depending on your timing and interest, visit:
  • Gangaramaya Temple – A unique Buddhist temple that combines religious devotion, history, and eclectic architecture, including a museum of relics and antiques.
  • Independence Square – A national monument commemorating the island’s independence from British rule in 1948, set in tranquil gardens.
  • Lotus Tower (External View or Optional Entry) – Sri Lanka’s tallest structure and one of South Asia’s most recognizable landmarks.

    Entry to the observation deck requires pre-arrangement and additional time.

  • Pettah Market & Red Mosque (Jami Ul-Alfar) – Walk through Colombo’s busiest bazaar area, famous for vibrant trade, colorful stalls, and the stunning red-and-white-striped mosque.
  • Optional Shopping – Time permitting, you can visit tea boutiques, local handicraft stores, or modern malls for souvenirs, gemstones, and textiles.
• Drop-off at Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo hotels, or Negombo