Heritage, Hills & Wildlife Tour
11 Days / 10 Nights Tour
11 Days / 10 Nights Tour
Heritage, Hills & Wildlife Tour is an 11-day journey through Sri Lanka’s misty mountains and historic cities, blending culture, nature, and scenic rail journeys. Begin in the royal city of Kandy, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and the famed Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, then ride the train through tea-clad hills to cool-climate Nuwara Eliya. Trek across the dramatic landscapes of Horton Plains, continue to Ella for iconic viewpoints such as Nine Arch Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak, and conclude in vibrant Colombo with time for sightseeing and shopping before departure.
On arrival, you will be met by an WonderScapes Travels representative, following which, begin your journey to Dambulla via Pinnawala.
En route, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Founded in 1975, the orphanage was initially created to care for seven orphaned elephants. While it also attracted tourism interest, its primary focus gradually shifted toward elephant conservation and education, Developing into an important centre dedicated to the care, protection, and study of elephants.
The free movement of the herd allowed natural interactions between male and female elephants. The nearby river also played an important role, and in 1984, the first elephant was born at Pinnawala. It is significant that some of the orphan elephants have even seen their “grandchildren” being born here! The success story of Pinnawala has drawn the attention of scientists from all over the world. A considerable number of books and research articles on the orphanage have been published in several languages.
Overnight stay in Dambulla
Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer to Anuradhapura. The city tour of Anuradhapura, the first capital of the country is a World Heritage Site and offers various ruins of ancient temples, palaces and more for visitors to take in. Many sites such as the Sacred Maha Bodi Tree which is over 2200 years old and the Ruwanweliseya, a famous dagoba in the Buddhist culture, offers an insightful glimpse to the religion and various schools of art which came into being. Other important attractions which one will get the chance to visit include the Isurumuniya Rock Temple which dates back to the third century BC. and the Samadhi Buddha statue.
Transfer to Mihintale. Mihintale is where Buddhism was first introduced to the country and is regarded as the cradle of Buddhist culture in Sri Lanka. An ancient stairway hewn out of granite slabs leads to the summit from where one could get a splendid view of the surrounding countryside.
On completion, transfer to Dambulla. Savour a delectable dinner in Dambulla.
Overnight stay in Dambulla
Breakfast at the hotel.
One of the most famous UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, dates backs to the fifth century BC, the onetime royal abode of King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). The fortress features moats, ramparts and extensive manicured grounds with the renowned water gardens taking centre stage. Among the special sites to take in include frescos, the mirror wall and the massive lion paw entrance leading up to the summit where ancient ruins of the palaces can be seen along with panoramic vistas of the surrounding region.
Thereafter, transfer to Polonnaruwa. After a scrumptious breakfast head to Polonnaruwa, yet another World Heritage Site, and take in the ruins of the Royal Palace and the Gal Viharaya, where four splendid statues of the Lord Buddha carved out of rock showcases the skills of artisans of the old.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Dambulla.
Overnight stay in Dambulla
Breakfast at the hotel.
An iconic attraction in Sri Lanka, the Dambulla Rock Temple, also known as the Golden Temple, houses ancient relics, paintings, and over 150 Buddha statues spread across five caves that form the temple complex.
Thereafter transfer to Matale. An agricultural region in Sri Lanka’s Central Province, Matale remains prominent due to its remarkable contribution to the cultivation of key crops ranging from tea, rubber, and vegetables to a wide variety of spices. Today, the town takes immense pride in its rich heritage centered around spice cultivation.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Kandy.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Developed as a pleasure garden under royal patronage and later expanded by the British, the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya offers a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. Manicured lawns, well-tended greenery, and vibrant blooms create a welcoming space to relax and enjoy nature.
Do a city tour of Kandy. Visit Kandy, a picturesque hill city, and immerse yourself in its vibrant culture, rich history, heritage, and unique traditions. Explore the Sri Dalada Maligawa — the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha — and discover the enduring legacies left behind by the ancient kings.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Kandy.
Overnight stay in Kandy.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Replete with misty winding roads, slopes blanketed in lush green carpets of tea bushes, and invigorating fresh mountain air, the charming town of Nuwara Eliya offers visitors an intimate and refreshing getaway. Enjoy scenic hikes across grassy slopes and valleys that open up to captivating vistas of a picturesque countryside landscape.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Kandapola.
Overnight stay in Kandapola.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Thereafter transfer to Horton Plains. Visit Horton Plains – a UNESCO World Heritage Site and eco-tourism haven in the heart of the island. Endless stretches of green grasslands form one of the healthiest wet montane evergreen ecosystems in Sri Lanka. Situated at an elevation of over 7,000 feet, this vast plateau spans approximately 3,169 hectares and shelters unique flora and fauna found nowhere else on earth.
Admire the majestic Baker’s Falls as it cascades over rugged rock formations, and trek across mist-covered grasslands while breathing in the crisp mountain air. You may also gaze down from World’s End, a dramatic escarpment plunging nearly 3,700 feet towards the southern plains. Along the way, spot herds of sambar deer grazing peacefully and listen to the chorus of birdlife across the landscape. With a bit of luck, you might encounter wildlife such as wild boar, fishing cats, otters, or even the elusive “spotted ghost of the plains” — the Sri Lankan leopard.
On completion transfer to Kandapola.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Kandapola.
Overnight stay in Kandapola.
Breakfast at the hotel.
After a scrumptious breakfast, head to Ella—one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic journeys. Grab a window seat to soak in the breathtaking views of lush mountains, tea plantations, and rolling greenery. It’s a longer travel day, so settle in with a good book or some music as you watch the landscape unfold.
As the train winds through the Ella Forest Reserve, marvel at the iconic Nine Arches Bridge from above, then pass through charming local villages for a fresh perspective of this architectural wonder. Along the way, pause at a small village for a hearty, spicy curry prepared by a welcoming local family. Share stories, enjoy their warm hospitality, and savor a steaming cup of authentic Ceylon tea.
After this cultural and culinary stop, the afternoon is yours to explore Ella at your leisure, taking in its stunning scenery and relaxed charm at your own pace.
Overnight stay in Ella.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Thereafter transfer to Yala. Set off on an exciting jeep safari to explore Yala National Park. Sprawling across an area of approximately 1,259 square kilometers, Yala is the second-largest national park in Sri Lanka and features diverse landscapes including sand dunes, grasslands, shrub forests, and natural waterholes.
The park is home to large herds of elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, jackals, and a remarkable variety of bird species. It is also one of the best places in the world to catch a glimpse of the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. As you journey through the wilderness, immerse yourself in the sights and sounds of nature while basking in the warmth of the tropical sun.
Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Yala.
Overnight stay in Yala.
Breakfast at the hotel.
Thereafter transfer to Galle. Galle is among the most visited coastal cities on Sri Lanka’s southern shores. The historic Galle Fort presents a fascinating blend of classic Dutch colonial architecture and tropical island charm, creating a truly unique heritage experience. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the fort and discover stylish cafés, restaurants, museums, boutiques, and art galleries. Explore the well- preserved bastions that stand as proud reminders of more than three and a half centuries of history, before enjoying a spectacular sunset from the ramparts overlooking the Indian Ocean.
Walk clockwise within the fort to view the historic Old Gate, which bears the British coat of arms. Nearby, you will find the iconic lighthouse located beside the Point Utrecht Bastion, each reflecting the fort’s rich colonial legacy.
On completion, transfer to a beach hotel.
Overnight stay in Colombo
After breakfast, it is time to transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight home, taking with you unforgettable memories of Sri Lanka’s culture and landscapes.
Ayubowan !
Your accommodation, meal plan and transfers are tailored to your preferences & budget
Bring cool & comfortable clothing!
Sunscreen, flip flops, shoes and insect repellent will always come in handy
At all religious sites in Sri Lanka everyone is expected to dress respectfully in modest light coloured clothing with shoulders & knees covered
NO hats or footwear are allowed inside temples, so flip flops (which you would have to leave at the entrance) and an extra pair of socks are a good idea so you do not have to walk barefoot on the hot ground.
