Sri Lanka East Coast Escape

Upon your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be warmly welcomed by your local representative and transferred to Negombo, a charming coastal town located just a short distance from the airport. After checking into your hotel and freshening up, you will embark on a relaxing lagoon safari in the evening, cruising through peaceful mangrove forests and traditional fishing villages. You will observe the rich biodiversity of the lagoon, including tropical birds and traditional fishing methods, while enjoying a spectacular sunset over the water. After your safari, you will return to your hotel and enjoy a delicious dinner, preparing for the exciting journey ahead. Overnight stay at Earl's Regent Negombo.

After breakfast, you will proceed to Anuradhapura, which is Sri Lanka's first ancient capital and one of the island's most sacred UNESCO World Heritage Sites, dating back over 2,000 years. You will explore the magnificent stupas, monasteries, and the revered Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, which is a sacred fig tree grown from a cutting of the original Bodhi Tree in India under which Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Your guide will share fascinating stories about the city's history, its kings, and its significance as a center of Buddhism and ancient learning. After a day of exploration, you will check into your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay at The Heladive.

After breakfast, you will continue to the beautiful East Coast city of Trincomalee, which is known for its natural deep-water harbor and stunning coastal scenery. You will visit Fort Frederick, a colonial-era fort built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch and British, offering panoramic views of the coastline and the Indian Ocean. You will also visit Lover's Leap, a dramatic cliff-top viewpoint with breathtaking ocean vistas, and the Koneswaram Temple, an ancient Hindu temple perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the ocean and dedicated to Lord Shiva. You will also experience the famous Kanniya Hot Springs, where you can observe the natural geothermal springs that are believed to have healing properties. After a full day of exploration, you will return to your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon.

After breakfast, you will embark on a boat excursion to Pigeon Island National Park, which is one of Sri Lanka's finest marine sanctuaries and a premier snorkeling destination. You will discover colorful coral reefs teeming with tropical marine life, including vibrant reef fish, sea turtles, and other fascinating underwater creatures. The crystal-clear waters around the island provide excellent visibility for snorkeling, allowing you to fully appreciate the beauty and diversity of the coral ecosystem. After your marine adventure, you will return to Trincomalee and spend the remainder of the day relaxing on the beautiful beaches, swimming in the warm turquoise waters, or simply enjoying the peaceful coastal atmosphere. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay at Trinco Blu by Cinnamon.

After breakfast, you will travel south along the East Coast to the tropical paradise of Passikudah, which is famous for its stunning golden sandy beaches and calm turquoise waters that are perfect for swimming and relaxation. The journey offers scenic views of the coastline, passing through charming fishing villages and palm-fringed beaches along the way. Upon arrival, you will check into your beachfront resort and spend the rest of the day relaxing on the golden sands, swimming in the calm, shallow waters, or simply unwinding by the pool with a refreshing drink. As the sun sets over the Indian Ocean, you will enjoy the spectacular tropical sunset before returning to your hotel for dinner. Overnight stay at Amaya Beach.

After breakfast, you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa, which is one of Sri Lanka's greatest archaeological treasures and was the island's medieval capital. You will explore the Royal Palace Complex, where you can see the ruins of the magnificent palace built by King Parakramabahu, as well as the Sacred Quadrangle, which houses some of the city's most important religious structures. You will visit the Rankoth Vehera, a massive stupa that stands as a testament to the architectural achievements of the Polonnaruwa kingdom, and the world-famous Gal Vihara, which features four magnificent Buddha statues carved into a single granite rock face, including a stunning reclining Buddha. After your exploration, you will return to Passikudah and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure by the beach. Dinner will be served at your resort. Overnight stay at Amaya Beach.

After breakfast, you will journey south along the picturesque East Coast, passing through beautiful coastal landscapes and charming fishing villages. En route, you will visit the historic Batticaloa Dutch Fort, which was built by the Portuguese and later fortified by the Dutch, offering a glimpse into Sri Lanka's colonial past and stunning views of the surrounding lagoon and ocean. Continuing your journey, you will arrive in Arugam Bay, which is famous for its laid-back atmosphere, beautiful beaches, and world-class surf breaks. Upon arrival, you can explore the town's vibrant beach cafés, boutique shops, and relaxed coastal vibe before checking into your hotel. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay at Nikara Beach Villas.

Today is entirely yours to enjoy at leisure in the laid-back paradise of Arugam Bay, with no organized activities scheduled to allow you complete flexibility to relax and recharge. You can spend your day relaxing on the golden sandy beach, swimming in the warm turquoise waters, or simply enjoying the peaceful tropical surroundings with your loved ones. Arugam Bay is famous for its surf breaks, and you may choose to watch surfers riding the waves or take optional surfing lessons at an additional cost. You can also explore the town's charming beach cafés, boutique shops, and relaxed coastal atmosphere, or simply unwind by the pool and soak in the sun. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay at Nikara Beach Villas.

After breakfast, you will enjoy a safari in Lahugala National Park, which is renowned for its wild elephant population and rich birdlife. The park is a relatively small but ecologically significant reserve, featuring lush forests, grasslands, and waterholes that attract a wide variety of wildlife. You will keep your eyes open for majestic elephants, spotted deer, wild boars, and a diverse array of bird species, making it an excellent destination for wildlife photography and nature observation. Your experienced safari guide will share fascinating insights about the park's ecology and help you spot animals in their natural habitat. After your safari, you will return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening with dinner. Overnight stay at Nikara Beach Villas.

After breakfast, you will bid farewell to Sri Lanka's beautiful East Coast and proceed to Colombo, the island's vibrant commercial capital. The journey takes you across the island, passing through diverse landscapes of rural villages, paddy fields, and coastal scenery. Upon arrival in Colombo, you will check into your hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure to relax and unwind after your journey. You may choose to explore the local area, visit nearby shops and cafes, or simply rest at your hotel and enjoy the facilities. Dinner will be served at your hotel. Overnight stay at Granbell Colombo.

After breakfast, you will explore Colombo's fascinating blend of colonial heritage and modern city life, discovering the unique character of Sri Lanka's commercial capital. You will visit Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo's most important Buddhist temples, featuring an eclectic mix of Sri Lankan, Thai, Indian, and Chinese architectural styles. You will also visit Independence Memorial Hall, which commemorates Sri Lanka's independence from British rule, and Galle Face Green, a popular oceanfront promenade where locals and visitors gather to enjoy the sea breeze. You will also explore the bustling Pettah Market, where you can experience the vibrant atmosphere of a traditional South Asian market and shop for souvenirs, tea, gemstones, and local handicrafts. After a full day of exploration and shopping, you will return to your hotel and enjoy dinner. Overnight stay at Granbell Colombo.