A Luxury Family Adventure – 10 days

After landing, please clear immigration and complete any visa formalities. Once you’ve collected your baggage, proceed to the arrival lounge through the green channel if you have no goods to declare to customs.

You will be greeted by a chauffeur guide from SL Trips who will call your name. Your guide will first assist you in purchasing a local SIM card from a mobile network provider at the airport, ensuring you have connectivity during your stay in Sri Lanka. After that, you to start your journey with the guide as per your itinerary.

Places to be visited during the day

1. Visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage– where you’ll experience the joy of watching elephants in their natural habitat. Marvel at these magnificent creatures splashing during their river bathing time, and share in the excitement of feeding sessions, creating wonderful memories for visitors of all ages as they connect with these gentle giants.
2. Optional Pinnawala Zoological Gardens

Elevate your journey with an optional visit to the Pinnawala Zoological Gardens, showcasing a diverse range of animal species. For enhanced comfort and ease of exploration within the zoo, electric vehicles are available for private rental, allowing for convenient movement between exhibits.

Checking into the hotel and relaxing.

* Breakfast and Lunch can be enjoyed during the journey.

Stay at Habarana

During your two-day stay in Habarana, you have the flexibility to explore several remarkable attractions in the surrounding area. These activities are all optional and can be arranged according to your family’s preferences. Simply discuss with your tour driver to create an itinerary that works best for your group.

Available Experiences:

Wild Safari at Minneriya National Park

Witness Sri Lanka’s magnificent wildlife, including the famous “Elephant Gathering” where hundreds of elephants congregate around the reservoir. The park is also home to various bird species, deer, monkeys, and if you’re lucky, leopards.

Best times: Early morning (6:30 AM) or afternoon (2:00 PM)

Hiriwadunna Village Tour

Immerse yourself in authentic rural Sri Lankan life with this cultural experience. Ride in bullock carts, cross lakes on traditional boats, visit local homes, and enjoy a delicious traditional lunch prepared with fresh local ingredients.

Ideal for: Lunchtime visit

Hot Air Balloon Tour

Float above the stunning landscapes of Habarana, offering breathtaking aerial views of forests, lakes, and wildlife. This unforgettable experience provides a unique perspective of Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Time: Early morning (4:30 AM)

Note: Age restrictions for children may apply based on the pilot’s discretion

Bird Watching and Traditional Boat Ride in Parakrama Samudraya

Explore the historic man-made reservoir while spotting numerous bird species. The peaceful boat ride offers excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife observation in a serene setting.

Best times: Early morning or evening (4:00 PM)

Ayurvedic Spa Experiences

Indulge in authentic Sri Lankan wellness treatments at your hotel’s spa facility or specialised Ayurvedic centres nearby. These traditional treatments use natural herbs and oils to promote relaxation and rejuvenation. Many hotels in Habarana offer in-house Ayurvedic spa facilities with treatments ranging from massage therapies to herbal steam baths. Alternatively, your driver can recommend reputable local Ayurvedic centres for a more immersive experience.

Ideal time: Evening, after a day of exploration

Your tour driver will be happy to help arrange these activities based on your timing preferences and interests, ensuring your family enjoys the best that Habarana has to offer.

After breakfast, you will head to Kandy

Places to visit during the day:

1. Dambulla Cave Temple (Optional): This UNESCO site features five stunning caves filled with vibrant Buddhist art and over 150 statues, offering a captivating glimpse into Sri Lanka’s ancient history and religious heritage.
2. Spice Garden in Matale – Embark on a sensory adventure through fragrant pathways where children can touch, smell, and taste exotic spices. The interactive demonstrations of traditional remedies fascinate visitors of all ages, with friendly guides who make learning fun.
3. In Kandy:

1. 1. Kandy batik shops – Watch colourful fabrics come to life through the magical wax-resist process, where artistic traditions are passed down through generations.
   2. Wood carving shops – Witness skilled artisans transform simple wood into intricate treasures.
   3. Gem arcade and museum – Discover Sri Lanka’s glittering treasures in a dazzling display that feels like a real-life treasure hunt.

• The highlight of your evening will be the spectacular Kandyan cultural show, a vibrant and exciting experience for the whole family! You’ll be amazed by the colourful costumes, energetic drumming, and acrobatic dances. See performers showcase traditional Sri Lankan dances, including the impressive fire-walking act. With music, storytelling, and lots of action, it’s a fantastic way to immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s rich culture.
• As the final visit of the day, experience the serene atmosphere of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a place of deep spiritual significance where you can witness beautiful rituals, admire intricate architecture, and feel the peaceful devotion of worshippers, offering a calming end to your cultural exploration.

Lunch can be enjoyed during the journey, and there are plenty of options to satisfy all tastes.

Overnight stay in Kandy

After breakfast, explore the Peradeniya Botanical Garden, a 147-acre oasis near Kandy. Discover 4,000+ plant species, including orchids and spices, stroll Royal Palm Avenue, and marvel at giant bamboo. Enjoy the garden’s peaceful beauty and river views. We recommend hiring an electric go-kart for the visit, and it will save your time.

Afternoon Visit

Sembuwatta Lake: A tranquil man-made lake surrounded by tea estates and pine forests, perfect for relaxing and enjoying scenic views. More activities to do there, such as

1. Paddle boating
2. A natural spring-fed pool is available for swimming
3. Adventure activities: Mini Zipline and Air Rifle Shooting

The train ride from Kandy to Nanu Oya (the closest station to Nuwara Eliya) is often considered one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. It takes approximately 4–5 hours and offers breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s lush hill country.

• Panoramic Views: The journey takes you through rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, dense forests, cascading waterfalls, and charming villages.
• Local Experience: The train ride provides a glimpse into Sri Lankan culture, with locals and tourists alike enjoying the scenic route. Vendors on board may offer snacks and drinks.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The slow pace of the train allows you to unwind and fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the surroundings.

When you arrive at Nanu Oya station, your tour guide/driver will meet you to take you to Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England” for its colonial charm, cool climate, and lush landscapes.

Nanu Oya Waterfalls: En route to Nuwara Eliya, the picturesque Nanu Oya Waterfalls are visible from the main road. However, to reach the base of the falls for a closer view, a short walk is required.

Visit Gregory Lake in the evening for a relaxing experience, where you can enjoy boating, pony rides, and scenic strolls amidst the tranquil surroundings of Nuwara Eliya.

* Lunch and dinner can be enjoyed during the journey.

Stay at Nuwara Eliya

During your two-day stay in Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England,” enjoy these optional attractions according to your preferences. Your tour driver will help arrange the timing that works best for your family.

Available Experiences:

Ambewela Farm

Visit “Little New Zealand” with its dairy farms, green pastures, and fresh mountain air. It is perfect for families to see livestock and enjoy farm products.

Ideal: Daytime visit

Moon Plains

Explore this scenic grassland via off-road jeep from the entrance, offering panoramic mountain views and wildlife spotting opportunities.

Hakgala Botanical Garden

Discover exotic plants and beautifully landscaped gardens with mountain backdrops. Electric carts are available for hire, making exploring the extensive gardens without walking long distances easier. They are perfect for families with children or those preferring a more relaxed visit.

Gregory Lake

Enjoy boat rides, pony rides, and lakeside relaxation at this scenic reservoir.

Ideal: Daytime activities

Victoria Park

Stroll through this well-maintained English garden with colourful flower beds.

Horton Plains National Park

Experience cloud forests and unique biodiversity on a 4-5km walking trail leading to the dramatic World’s End viewpoint and Baker’s Waterfall. Moderate hiking is required.

Best time: Early morning

Bomburu Ella Waterfall

A spectacular multi-tiered waterfall with a moderate hiking trail (approximately 1km) through tea plantations. The path involves some uneven terrain and steps, suitable for those with reasonable fitness. The reward is a refreshing natural pool and magnificent views.

Discuss with your driver to create the perfect itinerary based on your family’s interests and energy levels.

After a leisurely breakfast in Nuwara Eliya, the day begins with a scenic drive towards Colombo, passing through the picturesque landscapes of Kitulgala. A lunch break allows for a moment to relax and appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

After checking into the hotel, guests can unwind.

Shopping time: More options for shopping in Colombo, (Colombo Port City, One Galle Face, ODEL)

As evening approaches, an exploration of the modern Colombo Port City provides a glimpse into the city’s evolving landscape. This is followed by dinner and an overnight stay in Colombo.

For those interested in experiencing Colombo’s nightlife, there are several options. You could head to one of the vibrant nightclubs in the city, perhaps near Galle Face or in the Cinnamon Grand area, where you can enjoy music, dancing, and socialising.

On your final day in Sri Lanka,

Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before checking out. If you have a late flight, take advantage of some last-minute shopping to pick up souvenirs and experience a Colombo city tour. Afterwards, proceed to the airport, carrying cherished memories of your incredible Sri Lanka adventure.

Colombo City tour includes:

1. 1. Red Mosque – famous for its striking red and white striped exterior and Indo-Saracenic architecture, accommodating thousands of worshippers
   2. Gangaramaya Temple – Visit this vibrant Buddhist temple known for its unique blend of architectural styles.
   3. Galle Face Green – Stroll along this popular beachfront promenade, perfect for leisure and recreation.
   4. Dutch Hospital – Discover this historic site transformed into a trendy shopping and dining destination.
   5. Independence Memorial Hall – Learn about Sri Lanka’s independence at this significant national monument.