Serendib Signature Tour

Today, you’ll begin your journey to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver.

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After breakfast, take the morning to rest, have a swim or take a stroll around the neighbourhood. After

lunch, you will be picked up (guide will confirm pick up time) to enjoy a panoramic tour of Colombo, Sri

Lanka's largest city and commercial capital. Located on the west coast, Colombo is a vibrant and bustling

city that blends modern developments with rich colonial history. You'll marvel at the diverse architectural

styles, from Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial buildings to Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Indian, and

contemporary structures.

Highlights include the iconic Fort area, where the striking contrasts between old and new architecture are

most evident. Colombo is also a popular shopping destination, with many malls and department stores

offering brand-name clothing at bargain prices.

During the tour, visit key landmarks such as Galle Face Green, Viharamahadevi Park, the Twin World

Trade Centre Towers, the Old Parliament Building, the Fort District, and Independence Hall at

Independence Square.

MEALS: Breakfast

OVERNIGHT (3 STAR OPTION)

OVERNIGHT (4 STAR OPTION)

After breakfast, take the morning to rest, have a swim or take a stroll around the neighbourhood. After

lunch, you will be picked up (guide will confirm pick up time) to enjoy a panoramic tour of Colombo, Sri

Lanka's largest city and commercial capital. Located on the west coast, Colombo is a vibrant and bustling

city that blends modern developments with rich colonial history. You'll marvel at the diverse architectural

styles, from Portuguese, Dutch, and British colonial buildings to Buddhist, Hindu, Islamic, Indian, and

contemporary structures.

Highlights include the iconic Fort area, where the striking contrasts between old and new architecture are

most evident. Colombo is also a popular shopping destination, with many malls and department stores

offering brand-name clothing at bargain prices.

During the tour, visit key landmarks such as Galle Face Green, Viharamahadevi Park, the Twin World

Trade Centre Towers, the Old Parliament Building, the Fort District, and Independence Hall at

Independence Square.

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After breakfast, travel to Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of Sri Lanka’s most

historically significant cities.

Anuradhapura, the country’s first ancient capital, is steeped in history. Your guide will lead you through

the impressive Ruwanweliseya and Jetawanaramaya stupas, showcasing the grandeur of this ancient

civilisation. Explore the crumbling temples and ruins, gaining insight into the rise and fall of these

remarkable times.

Visit the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree Temple, home to the sacred bodhi tree believed to have been planted in

236 BCE, making it the oldest human-planted tree in the world. End your exploration with a visit to the

ancient Isurumuniya Temple, known for its stunning carvings that tell stories dating back thousands of

years.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME): 4 hours

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

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This morning, embark on a climb to the top of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, a UNESCO World

Heritage site and one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks. This ancient fortress showcases remarkable

feats of artistry and engineering that continue to amaze visitors. Below the rock, beautifully landscaped

pleasure gardens await, while giant lion paws carved into stone mark the entrance to the fortress. As you

ascend, you’ll encounter the famous mirror wall, still adorned with ancient inscriptions by poets.

NOTE: The visit to Sigiriya takes approximately 3.5 hours. The final 30-minute climb from the Lion's Paw

to the summit involves steep and narrow walkways and steps. Those who prefer not to climb to the top

can wait at the Lion's Paw for the group’s return. Access to sites like the water garden, boulder garden,

frescoes, and mirror wall requires climbing.

After descending from Sigiriya, begin your journey to Kandy. Along the way, visit a spice garden in Matale

to learn about the spices that are deeply woven into Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Upon arrival in Kandy,

enjoy a free evening to explore at your leisure. Take a peaceful walk around Kandy Lake, the centrepiece

of this charming city, which combines urban vibrancy with a relaxed atmosphere.

MEALS: Breakfast

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Nestled amidst lush hill country and surrounding a scenic lake, Kandy is one of Sri Lanka's most charming

cities. It boasts a lively market, historic shops, and a fascinating cultural heritage. Once the home of Sri

Lanka's last king, Kandy resisted European control long after coastal areas had fallen.

Begin your day with a visit to Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), which houses Sri Lanka's most

sacred relic: a tooth believed to belong to the Buddha. This revered site has drawn pilgrims since the 16th

century.

Next, explore the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, renowned as one of Asia's finest. Marvel at its immense

fig tree, stunning orchid collection, and expansive grounds, offering a perfect place for relaxation or for

kids to roam.

Later, enjoy a cultural show, where you’ll witness traditional Sri Lankan music and dance.

NOTE: When entering temples, hats and shoes must be removed. Avoid leaving shoes on the roadside,

as monkeys may steal them. Use the designated shoe storage service for a small fee or pack them in

your bag.

MEALS: Breakfast

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This morning, board the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, a picturesque town nestled deep in Sri Lanka's

tea plantation country at an elevation of 1,800 metres. Known for its cool climate, Nuwara Eliya was a

favourite retreat of the Scots and English during the colonial era, with charming manor homes and

sculpted gardens that reflect its history.

The train journey, approximately 3.5 hours long, is renowned as one of the world's most scenic rail trips.

Enjoy breathtaking views of rolling hillsides and vibrant green tea plantations. Don’t forget to capture

stunning Instagram-worthy shots from the open doors and windows of the train.

NOTE: Train tickets from Kandy to Nanu Oya are in very high demand, especially during peak seasons

(December–April and August). While every effort is made to secure tickets, in the rare event they are

unavailable, you will travel via private vehicle instead.

MEALS: Breakfast

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Start your morning with a visit to a tea estate in Nuwara Eliya. Learn about the intricate process of

transforming the finest tea leaves into world-renowned Ceylon black tea. Gain a newfound appreciation

for your morning brew and enjoy a tasting of freshly made tea.

Continue your journey to Ella, a charming mountainous town known for its laid-back vibe and stunning

scenery. Visit the famous Nine Arches Bridge, a colonial-era architectural marvel spanning 91 metres and

standing 24 metres high. This picturesque spot is perfect for photography, whether with a drone or from

the ground.

Your guide will help you choose the best approach to the bridge. The easiest route is a walk along the

railway tracks from Ella train station, while the more scenic views from a distance or the base of the

bridge require a moderate hike.

After exploring Ella, proceed to Kataragama, near Yala National Park. Check into your hotel and relax for

the evening.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME): 4.5 hours

MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner

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This morning, venture into Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserve, for an exciting 4x4

jeep safari. Explore the park's open grasslands, dense forests, and serene lagoons as your guide uses

their expertise to track hidden wildlife. Keep an eye out for crocodiles, elephants, monkeys, and

buffaloes—and if you’re lucky, you may spot a leopard. Yala is one of the best places in the world to

encounter these elusive big cats.

During the day, try buffalo curd, a popular Sri Lankan delicacy served in terracotta pots with golden

treacle. It can be enjoyed as a snack, dessert, or side dish.

After the safari, continue your journey to the historic Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally

built by the Portuguese in 1588 and fortified by the Dutch in the 17th century, the Galle Fort is a treasure

trove of history and architecture. Walk along the Galle Ramparts and visit the Galle Lighthouse, the oldest

in Sri Lanka, strategically positioned at the southern tip of the fort with stunning views of the harbour.

APPROXIMATE DRIVING TIME): 4.5 hours

MEALS: Breakfast

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Enjoy a full day at your leisure in the beachside town of Hikkaduwa. Relax on the sandy beaches, swim in

the clear waters, or explore the town at your own pace.

NOTE: The tour vehicle will not be available for your disposal.

MEALS: Breakfast

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Enjoy breakfast before checking out. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight, or extend your holiday with a relaxing beach stay on Sri Lanka's southern coast.

Meals: Breakfast