Wildlife &
Hill Country

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer north to Minneriya. Evening jeep safari into the park as the elephants begin their approach to the ancient tank — your very first wildlife encounter sets the tone for the week.

A full day exploring Minneriya and the adjacent Kaudulla National Park. Morning and afternoon safaris maximise sightings — also look for axis deer, painted storks, jackals and the occasional leopard that drifts between the parks.

En-route to Kandy, stop at Dambulla's magnificent golden cave temples — five gilded caves with over 150 Buddha statues and 2,000-year-old ceiling murals. Arrive in Kandy for the evening puja ceremony at the Temple of the Tooth.

A full day in Kandy — the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya in the morning, with its spectacular royal palm avenue and thousands of orchids. Afternoon at Kandy Lake and the town market. Evening Kandyan dance performance.

Scenic mountain drive through rolling tea estates to Nuwara Eliya at 1,868 metres. Visit a working tea factory — watch the full production process from withering to grading — then taste six different varieties. Afternoon stroll around Gregory Lake.

Board the legendary hill country train at Nanu Oya. One of the world's most scenic rail journeys — waterfalls, deep valleys and endless tea hills roll past. Arrive in Ella by afternoon. Walk to the Nine Arches Bridge for golden hour.

Pre-dawn hike to Little Adam's Peak for sunrise over the highland valley. After breakfast, drive south through the dry lowlands to your Yala eco-lodge. Evening game drive along the park boundary at dusk.

Pre-dawn entry into Yala Block 1 for your best chance at a leopard sighting in the magical early light. Morning safari, then transfer back to Colombo for your onward flight — eight extraordinary days complete.