Explore Sri Lanka: Colombo, Kandy & Sigiriya

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Upon arrival in Colombo, clear immigration and customs. Then proceed to the arrival area, where your private chauffeur guide meets you and takes you to your hotel in Colombo. Colombo is the largest city and capital of Sri Lanka. While it once had a reputation for being dull and uninviting, think differently. Unlike cities like Bangkok or Jakarta, Colombo is easy to explore. Although there is some traffic beyond the busy streets, you'll find a vibrant city waiting to be discovered.

Later in the evening, you'll meet a local insider who takes you on a journey to explore the flavors that make Colombo unique—a melting pot of cultures combined with a "dodgy bar" experience. Sri Lanka is a multicultural country, and nowhere is this more evident than in Colombo, where a blend of ethnicities offers a rich variety of food traditions passed down through generations. As you explore, you'll see how food reveals insights into the social and cultural history of the country. From Tamil dishes influenced by South India, such as Vadai, Dosai, and Appam (also known as hoppers), to Muslim specialties like samosas and the dessert Watalappan, and local favorites like Isso Vadais and Kottu Roti, each dish has its own story. But don't worry—this isn't a history lesson with a bit of food; it's mostly about enjoying lots of food while learning a bit about the history that shaped Colombo into the cultural melting pot it is today! Your insider knows all the hidden gems, from trendy bars to the real local spots known as "dodgy bars." You'll get to sample arrack, a strong and aromatic local drink, so take it slow and enjoy the insider’s curated selection, which offers a glimpse into Sri Lankan society. For a moment, you might feel like a TV show host on an adventurous journey, discovering exciting new places. Come with an open mind, and let the insider lead the way. This experience offers a truly unique perspective on Colombo, and one thing's for sure—fun is guaranteed. Cheers!

Note: There is no set plan for this experience, as true explorers don't follow scripts. Before your trip to Sri Lanka, inform in advance of any dietary restrictions or specific dishes you would like to try. Your host does their best to accommodate your preferences. Be ready to eat with your hands and share the food portions!

Airport – Colombo (Approx. 45 mins)
Overnight Stay at 4 Star Option - Grand bell, Colombo – Standard Sea View Rooms
 

After breakfast, you'll head to Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka.

In Kandy, you'll visit a homestay where the lady of the house warmly welcomes you and guides you through a traditional Sri Lankan cooking experience. The session begins with an introduction to Sri Lankan spices and how to combine them to create the perfect curry. One of the highlights is using fired clay pots, which enhance the flavor of the curries. You'll be hands-on throughout the process—chopping vegetables, mixing spices, and stirring the gravy. In the end, you'll enjoy a delicious lunch made from your efforts, like the cherry on top!

Note: This is a group cooking experience, inform in advance of any dietary restrictions.

Later in the afternoon, it's time to explore Kandy with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth. Kandy is steeped in legend. While Sri Lanka was under Portuguese and Dutch control, the Kings of Kandy remained defiant and independent. It wasn’t until British rule that Kandy eventually fell to the world’s largest empire. Today, Kandy is a bustling city that still showcases traces of its colonial past, with landmarks like the Queen's Hotel, a stunning 19th-century neoclassical building. Stroll around the lake, explore the streets, and take in the vibrant atmosphere of the local markets. Markets are often the heart of a place, where locals go about their daily lives. Instead of getting caught in the tourist-focused Spice Gardens, dive into the Kandy town market, where vendors offer spices like cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, cardamom, pepper, and turmeric. These spices not only remind you of delicious dishes but also connect to the era of exploration and Sri Lanka’s 500-year history under Portuguese, Dutch, and British rule. You'll also find a variety of seasonal fruits that are a must-try. At the heart of Kandy is the Temple of the Tooth Relic, the city’s most iconic building. In ancient times, possession of the Sacred Tooth Relic symbolized the right to rule the island, and it was the king’s duty to protect it. Even today, the temple holds deep significance for Buddhists across the country, just as it did centuries ago.

Colombo – Kandy (Approx. 4 hrs) – Digana (Approx. 45 mins)
Overnight at Polwattha Eco Lodge Digana - Deluxe Lodge (Non-A/C)

After breakfast, start the day with a village walk, followed by a visit to a hidden waterfall, where a swim in the waterfall is the highlight. The walk begins at the lodge and takes you through charming villages with Kandyan Forest Gardens, where locals carry out their daily tasks at a relaxed pace. Along the way, you may be invited to visit their homes and see how they make treacle and jaggery (syrup and sugar blocks from palm tree sap). Your resident host give you a “botany lesson” about the various trees you'll encounter, such as cloves, pepper, nutmeg, coffee, cocoa, jackfruit, breadfruit, areca nut, mangosteen, mango, passion fruit, rambutan, banana, and papaya. You'll also pass rice fields and, time permitting, enjoy a stunning view of the lake surrounded by majestic mountains. You can choose to walk the entire 10 km / 6.2 mi to the waterfall or just part of it, with the option to cover the rest by tuk-tuk or jeep.

Duration: 4-5 hours
Terrain: 4 km / 2.4 mi mostly downhill on village paths, 3.5 km / 2.2 mi on a paved village road, and 2.5 km / 1.6 mi on a jungle trail to and from the waterfall.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure.

Overnight at Polwattha Eco Lodge Digana - Deluxe Lodge (Non-A/C)

After breakfast, head to the Cultural Triangle with a stop along the way for the Trails of Matale village experience.

Guidebooks might mention Matale for its well-known spice gardens, but that’s for tourists following the crowds. Instead, leave the guidebooks behind and join a local villager who takes you through his hidden village, away from the main roads, where real life unfolds. Imagine walking through paddy fields, watching villagers go about their daily farming, with stunning views of the Knuckles Mountain range in the distance. A river flows gently through the village, a breeze cools you, birds sing as you walk, and the air is filled with the aromas of natural spice trees like pepper, cinnamon, cloves, and even coffee. It may seem too good to be true, but sometimes the best experiences come from wandering off the beaten path. As you walk, listening to the village guide’s stories and folklore, take a moment to breathe in the fresh air and appreciate the simple beauty around you. The easy walk covers 3-4 km / 2 mi and takes about 1-2 hours, depending on your pace. At the end of the walk, enjoy a traditional rice and curry feast served on a lotus or banana leaf, with an “eat all you can” style meal. You’ll also be treated to a few traditional sweets for dessert.

Note: In addition to the village guide, your main tour guide can be with you to assist with translations if needed. To reduce the carbon footprint, the walk is done without a backup vehicle, but one can be arranged if necessary.

Afterward, continue your drive to Sigiriya and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Digana – Sigiriya (Approx. 3 hrs)
Overnight stay at 4 Star Option – Kumbukgaha Villa, Sigiriya – Private Villa 
 

Start early today with a climb up Pidurangala Rock to catch the sunrise and, if you're lucky, enjoy some stunning views.

Pidurangala is believed to have been the royal temple during the reign of King Kashyapa. The hike takes about an hour, depending on fitness level. The last part involves some scrambling over rocks, but it’s manageable with caution. Reaching the top is well worth the effort, as you're greeted by a sweeping view of lush green forests and the majestic Sigiriya Rock in the distance. Take a deep breath and enjoy the tranquility of this magical spot—perfect for those seeking peace away from the crowded tourist sites. Afterward, return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, head out to visit the Ritigala Archaeological Monastery.

Imagine an Indiana Jones adventure—though maybe not quite that dramatic—Ritigala has a similar feel of being untouched and far removed from Sri Lanka’s more famous sites. This isn't just a visit to a cultural landmark; it’s also a forest walk that perfectly combines history and nature. Take your time to explore the site thoroughly, walking up to the higher parts of the complex. The mysterious atmosphere comes from the long meditation pathways that lead into the dense jungle, along with the large stone-lined reservoirs. Pause, sit down, and connect with nature on these ancient sacred meditation grounds.

Overnight stay at 4 Star Option – Kumbukgaha Villa, Sigiriya – Private Villa 
 

Start the day early with a hike to Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is one of Sri Lanka's most stunning landmarks. This ancient rock fortress was built by King Kashyapa, who aimed to create an impenetrable fortress and a heavenly palace within. The climb, consisting of 1,200 steps, rises above the dry plains of Sigiriya. Though challenging, the ascent rewards you with breathtaking views of the green plains and surrounding villages. The ruins at the top offer a glimpse into the advanced urban planning of 5th-century Sri Lanka, leaving visitors in awe. Along the way, you’ll encounter the famous Sigiriya frescoes, depicting graceful maidens holding flowers. Nearby, the ‘Mirror Wall’ bears the inscriptions of ancient visitors, captivated by these vibrant paintings. The entire Sigiriya experience can take 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on your pace.

Tip: It’s best to start around 7 a.m. to avoid crowds and the heat. The cooler morning air makes the climb easier and provides the perfect lighting for photos.

Return to the hotel for breakfast. In the afternoon, take part in one of the signature experiences – High Tea & Roti.

Head to a scenic spot on the outskirts of Sigiriya for a Sri Lankan-style picnic high tea. While high tea traditionally comes from England, featuring pastries, scones, sandwiches, and tea, this version has a local twist. The main highlight is Pol Roti, a popular Sri Lankan dish made from shredded coconut mixed with flour. It's best enjoyed with Seeni Sambol, a flavorful mix of caramelized onions and chili flakes. Also on the menu are Kokis, a crispy, deep-fried snack made from coconut milk and rice flour, originally introduced by the Dutch. For a sweet treat, enjoy pancakes stuffed with Pani Pol, a delicious blend of treacle and coconut. Sip on ginger black tea while you relax, surrounded by beautiful natural scenery and a gentle breeze. Afterward, return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at your leisure.

Overnight stay at 4 Star Option – Kumbukgaha Villa, Sigiriya – Private Villa 
 

After breakfast, depart for Hunumulla for your last night on this beautiful island, with a stop to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple along the way.

Imagine a place that has been a center of worship for over 22 centuries. Carved out of a massive rock, the Dambulla Cave Temple complex features intricate craftsmanship and stunning murals depicting the life of Lord Buddha. The sheer beauty of the temple fills visitors with awe and a sense of peace. The complex includes five caves, home to 153 statues of Buddha, as well as statues of gods, goddesses, and kings who contributed to the temple's development. Different architectural styles can be seen throughout, and the temple, perched at an altitude of about 1,118 feet, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, from Ritigala to the north and the Kurunegala Plains to the southeast. The climb may be challenging, but the experience is truly rewarding, offering opportunities for breathtaking photography.

Tip: To avoid the midday heat, it's best to start early, much like at Sigiriya. Fewer crowds and cooler temperatures make the climb more enjoyable. Also, be cautious with the macaques that roam the area. Feeding them might seem fun, but it can lead to unwanted attention from the entire group. Keep food items and personal belongings secure.

Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Sigiriya – Dambulla (Approx. 1 hr) – Hunumulla (Approx. 3 hrs) 
Overnight at Ambarella Lodge, Hunumulla – Superior Room 

It's time to say goodbye to the island of serendipity. Spend the day reflecting on the wonderful memories made over the past couple of weeks in this island paradise. At the appropriate time, you'll be taken to the airport for your departure flight.

Safe travels!

Hunumulla – Airport (Approx. 40 mins)