TOUR NATURA IN SERENDIB - 9 GIORNI / 8 NOTTI

Welcome upon arrival and meeting with the guide. The driver/guide will be waiting for you in the airport arrivals hall holding a sign with your surname on it. If you are unable to locate them, please go to the Cinnamon Hotels & Resorts desk and give them your surname. Departure for Dambulla/Habarana (trasferimento di circa 4 ore e mezza - 150 Km). Transfer to the hotel. Optional activity (at extra cost): jeep safari in Minneriya or Kaundulla National Park, depending on where the largest number of elephants can be spotted. Dambulla – Minneriya: 45 mins – 35 km. Minneriya is situated between Habarana and Polonnaruwa and, with its 8,890-hectare national park, is one of Sri Lanka’s most important eco-tourism destinations. This park is the perfect habitat for the country’s most famous animal species, such as sambar deer, leopards and elephants. The main attraction is the ancient Minneriya reservoir (built in the 3rd century BC by King Mahasena). During the dry season (June to September), this reservoir is an incredible spot for observing elephants, as well as flocks of birds. Alternatively, for an additional charge, you can enjoy a one-hour Ayurvedic massage at the Habarana Ayurveda centre in Habarana. Dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast. Departure for Sigiriya. In the morning visit to Sigiriya. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, built by King Kashyapa (473–491 AD). The Lion’s Rock is a citadel of extraordinary beauty, rising 200 metres above the forest. It is the innermost fortress of a 70-hectare fortified city. The base of the fort is surrounded by a moat, a rampart and a vast garden. The frescoes, which once depicted 500 women (now only 19 remain), are located in a protected area of the fort near a spiral staircase and are the main attraction. Many of them were lost because they were painted over when the rock became a monastery, so as not to disturb meditation. The frescoes are painted on plaster using earth pigments.
Sigiriya is not a ‘difficult and impossible’ climb, but it is certainly a hike that requires a fair amount of activity and a minimum level of physical fitness. If there are people with physical limitations, disabled visitors or pregnant women, the climb is not recommended. It is important to bear in mind that there are 1,200 steps to the top.
Generally speaking, the visit takes 2–3 hours, depending on each person’s fitness level. The site opens at 7 am and closes at 5.30 pm. The best time to climb is definitely in the morning or late afternoon, when visitor numbers are at their lowest and temperatures are cooler. We recommend light, comfortable clothing and definitely trainers. Lunch at a restaurant. In the afternoon, a visit to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital. Built between the 11th and 12th centuries AD, the city is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here you can visit the ruins of the Royal Palace and the ‘Gal Viharaya’ (three magnificent statues of the Buddha in standing, sitting and reclining positions, carved from the rock). Also marvellous are the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, the statue of Polonnaruwa (12th century) and Lake “Parakrama Samudra”, built by King Parakramabahu the Great. There are also ruins of famous places of worship such as the Shiva Temple, Lankatileka, Watadage, Galpotha, the Kiri Vihare Dagoba and the remains of what was originally the Temple of the Tooth. The tour also includes a stop at a wood carving centre. At the end of the tour, transfer to Dambulla, a journey of approximately 1½ hours (65 km). Return to Dambulla. Dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast. Departure for Hiriwadunna. During the journey, we will stop to visit the Dambulla Cave Temples.
This is the largest cave temple in Sri Lanka, dating back to the first century BC, and contains over 150 images of the Buddha, softly illuminated. Comprising a series of five caves, the temple is known locally as Raja Maha Vihara. From the site, you can admire the rock fortress of Sigiriya, some 20 km away. Visit to Hiriwadunna. A journey through a typical Sinhalese village, offering a wonderful opportunity to immerse yourself in the nature and culture of Hiriwadunna, famous for its
fantastic dry zone, a haven for birds. The walk begins with a ride on an ox cart through a quiet village, before continuing the adventure on a catamaran towards the scenic Hiriwadunna Lake – which offers a splendid view of the Sigiriya rock fortress and Pidurangala Rock. The spring is surrounded by dense jungle, marshland and cultivated fields. After the catamaran trip, visit local homes for a culinary taste
of authentic cuisine, a meal prepared using traditional methods, with earthenware pots on a wood-burning stove. Return to Dambulla. Dinner at the hotel.

From 1 November 2026:

Departure early in the morning heading for Ritigala. Ritigala is an ancient monastic site nestled in the jungle, situated at the foot of a mountain steeped in history and mystery. This unique place is known for the ruins of a Buddhist monastery dating back over 2,000 years, featuring stone paths and terraces. The area is enveloped in lush vegetation and a tranquil, spiritual atmosphere, ideal for those seeking an authentic experience away from the more touristy routes. Continue to the village of Hiriwadunna to experience the relaxed pace of life in a small Sri Lankan village. A 5-hour private tour of the village of Hiriwadunna. You’ll be able to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, butterflies and birds whilst the local villagers fish and wash their clothes. Boat trip on the lake.

Breakfast. Departure for Kandy. Stop at the Matale Spice Garden, where you can see spice plants in their natural habitat. The garden guide will explain how the spices are used in local cuisine. Lunch at a restaurant. Visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Created by King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha (1747–1780), this splendid garden covers an area of around 60 hectares, featuring trees, lawns and flowering shrubs, as well as 20 hectares of arboretums containing more than 1,000 trees. It was here that the main exotic plants destined to become highly significant for the country’s economy were tested, such as coffee, tea and rubber trees. Another marvel is the enormous Java fig tree in the centre of a large lawn, imported here from the Indies. There are also giant bamboo stalks from Myanmar, China and Japan. The exquisite collection of Sri Lankan orchids is also very beautiful. At the centre of the garden is an artificial lake shaped like Sri Lanka and, not far away, a rotunda with a statue of George Gardner, the gardens’ superintendent in the mid-19th century. The tour usually includes the avenue of palm trees planted by the British in 1905. Visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is the city’s most important attraction and the main point of interest for anyone visiting Kandy. The temple stands to the north of the lake and owes its importance to the fact that it houses one of the most precious relics for Buddhists in Sri Lanka. The Sri Dalada Maligawa indeed holds a tooth of the Buddha: hence the name Sacred Temple of the Tooth. According to legend, the tooth was salvaged from the flames of the Buddha’s funeral pyre. The relic was initially taken to Anuradhapura, then to Polonnaruwa and finally to Kandy. In 1200, an invading army took it to India, but it later returned to Sri Lanka. Over time, the tooth of the Buddha took on an extremely important role: indeed, as well as being a sacred relic, it was believed that whoever possessed it had the legitimate right to rule the island. The Portuguese attempted to destroy it during their rule, trying to throw it into the flames. But it turned out that what they had burned was merely a copy. A tuk-tuk ride followed by a city tour, a dance show and free time for shopping. Dinner at the hotel.

From 1 November 2026: Departure for Kandy, with a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple and a spice garden en route, to see the plants in their natural habitat.
Travel time: approx. 60 km – 1½ hours (Dambulla/Sigiriya – Matale). The Dambulla Cave Temple, the largest in Sri Lanka, dates back to the 1st century BC and houses over 150 images of the Buddha, evocatively lit to create a unique atmosphere. The complex consists of five caves and is known locally as Raja Maha Vihara, whilst visitors simply refer to it as Dambulla. The entrance is marked by a large white stupa, situated along a sloping rock face, from which there is a view of the rock fortress of Sigiriya, some 20 km away. Many of the caves were carved by hand and some of the Buddha statues are still directly attached to the rock. After visiting Dambulla, we continue to Matale and visit a spice garden. We then set off for Kandy, stopping for lunch at a local restaurant. Journey time: approx. 72 km – 2 hours (Matale – Kandy). Kandy is surrounded by green hills and graced by a beautiful lake, making it one of the most relaxing and romantic cities in Sri Lanka. Its pleasant atmosphere and peaceful setting attract numerous visitors. Considered the cultural capital of the country, it is home to one of the most sacred temples: the Sri Dalada Maligawa, known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth. The most important event of the year is the Esala Perahera, during which a replica of the relic is carried in procession, accompanied by dancers in traditional costume, musicians and elephants, in spectacular celebrations held between July and August. The Kalapuraya area, in the Dumbara Valley, is renowned for its shrines and temples, rich in paintings, frescoes and carvings in wood and stone. In the afternoon, a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth (Dalada Maligawa) and a city tour by tuk-tuk, guided by local drivers (2 people per vehicle). This is followed by a traditional Kandy dance performance and free time for shopping.
Return to the hotel, dinner and overnight stay.

Breakfast. Departure to Nuwara Eliya. Lunch. In the afternoon visit to Nuwara Eliya. It is the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country. It is home to the world-famous Ceylon tea, and the hills are covered in a carpet of tea plantations interspersed with streams and small waterfalls. The area is characterised by a healthy, cool climate, unlike the rest of Sri Lanka, where the climate is warmer and more humid. The atmosphere has a distinctly English feel, and this little country within a country attracts many visitors for its uniqueness. A walk through the tea plantations. A visit to a tea factory where the processes involved in producing this traditional Sri Lankan drink will be explained. Dinner at the hotel.

Packed breakfast. Departure for Horton Plains. Start: trekking at 06.00
End: NA. Horton Plains, located 35 km from Nuwara Eliya, is the only national park from which you can enjoy a breathtaking view of the town. Within the park, you can go trekking near Bakers Falls. Horton Plains is well known for its rich biodiversity and flora. It covers a total area of 3,159.8 hectares. Comprising an amphitheatre of mountains and grasslands, Horton Plains is situated at an altitude of 2,359 metres (Totupolakanda, in the northern part of the park, is the third highest mountain in Sri Lanka). Lunch at a restaurant. In the afternoon visit to Ella. No trip to Sri Lanka is complete without a visit to its lush Hill Country. As you climb higher, the landscape takes on an increasingly intense shade of green, dominated by vast expanses of tea plantations stretching as far as the eye can see. The entire mountainous region of the island of Ceylon is dotted with places that are ideal for trekking and taking in spectacular views.
Among the most charming destinations is the lively and picturesque town of Ella, perfectly nestled amongst the mountains. Thanks to its privileged location and the numerous trails in the surrounding area, Ella is a must-visit destination for those who love nature and walking in the great outdoors.
Among the main attractions is the famous Nine Arch Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic and photographed railway bridges. Situated between Ella and Demodara stations, this early 20th-century engineering masterpiece is built entirely of stone and concrete, without the use of steel. Its imposing arches rise in an elegant curve through the hills, offering a breathtaking view.
The walk to the bridge is short but picturesque, surrounded by greenery. If you’re lucky, you might catch one of the characteristic colourful trains passing through the area, making the scenery even more picturesque and memorable. Dinner at the hotel.

Breakfast. Departure for Little Adam's Peak. The hike up Little Adam’s Peak is one of the must-do activities in Ella. Little Adam’s Peak takes its name from its older sibling, Adam’s Peak (also known as Sri Pada). Climbing to the summit of Adam’s Peak is an unforgettable experience for anyone travelling in Sri Lanka, particularly because the view from the top is incredible: through the mist, you can admire the waterfalls and a few tea factories. You will then head to Ravana Falls, located just 10 km from Little Adam’s Peak. You can view them from the road or climb up to see them more closely (and even take a dip in a pool of icy water alongside the locals). Lunch at a restaurant. Continuation to Yala/Tissamaharama. I will arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner.

An early start for a jeep safari in Yala National Park. This park is the most visited and the second largest national park in Sri Lanka. It currently comprises five blocks, two of which are open to the public. The blocks have their own names, such as Ruhuna National Park for Block 1 (the most famous) and Kumana National Park or East Yala for the adjacent area. The park is situated in the south-eastern region of the country, in the Southern and Uva provinces. It covers an area of 979 km² and is approximately 300 km from Colombo. Together with Wilpattu National Park, it was one of Sri Lanka’s first two national parks, having been established in 1938. It plays an important role in the conservation of the Sri Lankan elephant and is notable for its waterbirds. It is home to 215 bird species, including six endemic to Sri Lanka, and flamingos are the most common among the migratory birds. It is situated in a climatic transition zone, subject to the north-east monsoon. The landscape is therefore typical of the East African savannah, with many waterholes and marshes. It has an extensive coastline with unspoilt beaches, interspersed with mangrove forests. There are numerous coastal lagoons teeming with crocodiles. Offshore lie two submerged coral formations known as Little & Great Basses, on which two lighthouses have been erected, emitting white and red lights. In these waters, it is easy to spot dolphins and blue whales. Elephants, crocodiles, Indian buffalo, wild boar and deer are the most common animals. The most common monkeys are the grey langur. It is, however, difficult to spot leopards, despite the fact that Yala has the highest density of leopards in the world. I return to the hotel for breakfast. Departure for Galle. Visit to Galle Fort and the Dutch Museum.
Galle was one of the most important ports in Ceylon, as the British called what is now Sri Lanka. This ‘living’ UNESCO World Heritage Site is the port where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka in 1505.
It was later conquered and fortified by the Dutch, who dominated Sri Lanka’s coastal region in the 17th and 18th centuries. Even today, the town retains an atmosphere reminiscent of old Holland. Within the 90-acre fort, well-preserved with ramparts dating back to 1663, there are old churches and monuments bearing coats of arms, an imposing entrance surmounted by a monogram from 1669, many perfectly preserved Dutch houses and narrow alleys that still bear Dutch names. The New Oriental Hotel, built for a Dutch governor in 1684, is a true colonial gem, now transformed into the renowned luxury hotel Amangalla. Other excellent boutique hotels also bear witness to the historical and cultural significance of this charming destination. Lunch at a restaurant. Arrive at Colombo e check-in in hotel. Time available to visit the city. Colombo, located 30 km from Katunayake Airport, is Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and the country’s largest city, with a population of around 3 million people. It is the best city in Sri Lanka for sampling street food, taking a tuk-tuk ride, and visiting markets and shopping centres. It brings together all the cultures, religions and influences of foreign countries and is characterised by a mix of sounds and scents, forming a veritable kaleidoscope of colours. Merchants and those who later settled in the country (Arabs, Portuguese, Danes and English) have left traces of their culture in the form of churches and monuments, names and religions, traditions and food, as well as linguistic influences that have become part of the everyday language of the Sri Lankan people. Today, Colombo is a fascinating city, a delightful blend of East and West, past and present. It offers a wide selection of top-class restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, as well as some of the best shopping opportunities in Asia.

Breakfast. Airport transfer.