The curated culinary experiences of Sri Lanka offer tons of mouth-watering dishes to discover which are best among the must-eats across the island.
Day 1: Arrival in Negombo
Upon arrival, be welcomed by a representative of Lanka Sportreizen and transfer to the hotel in Negombo, known as "Little Rome." This coastal town is famed for its beaches, fishing culture, and rich Catholic heritage. Explore the Old Dutch Fortress, Dutch Canal, St. Mary’s Church, and the vibrant Negombo Fish Market. Overnight at Suriya Luxury Resort, Waikkal.
Day 2: Negombo to Kelaniya
Visit the early-morning Lellama fish market, then enjoy a late breakfast. In the afternoon, head to Kelaniya Temple, believed to have been visited by the Buddha, and enjoy a seafood dinner. Overnight at Suriya Luxury Resort.
Day 3: Negombo to Dambulla
After breakfast, depart for Dambulla with a stop at the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to observe baby elephants being fed. Continue through Sri Lanka's "Coconut Triangle," and learn about the versatile coconut tree. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO site with over 22,000 square feet of murals. Overnight at Rangiri Dambulla Resort.
Day 4: Habarana and Dambulla Village Experience
Start the day with a village tour including a bullock cart and catamaran ride. Participate in a traditional cooking session and enjoy lunch with a local family. In the afternoon, revisit the Dambulla Cave Temple. Overnight at Rangiri Dambulla Resort.
Day 5: Sigiriya and Local Market Visit
Climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise, then explore a nearby market with a guide. Enjoy lunch at the hotel, followed by leisure time or indoor games. Overnight at Rangiri Dambulla Resort.
Day 6: Dambulla to Kandy
Drive to Kandy, the island’s cultural capital, known for its Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and rich traditions. Visit a spice garden en route, followed by lunch at an Indian restaurant and a visit to the Muthu Mariamman Temple. In the evening, watch a cultural performance and stay at a local homestay, where you’ll join a cooking session. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 7: Kandy City Tour
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens, Upper Lake Drive for panoramic views, and a gem museum. In the afternoon, explore the local market with your host. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 8: Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Travel through tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya, stopping at a tea factory to learn about tea production. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, then explore Victoria Park, Gregory Lake, and the historic Golf Course. Overnight at Heaven Seven Hotel, Nuwara Eliya.
Day 9: Nuwara Eliya to Ella
Take a scenic train ride to Ella, passing tea-covered hills and waterfalls. On arrival, explore the market, purchase ingredients for a cooking session, and prepare dinner together. Overnight at La Breeze Hotel, Ella.
Day 10: Ella to Uda Walawe
Drive to Uda Walawe through the Ella Gap, stopping to view the Ravana Falls and local pottery workshops. Enjoy an afternoon safari in Uda Walawe National Park, known for its elephant herds, followed by a visit to the Elephant Transit Home. Overnight at Hotel Sobana, Uda Walawe.
Day 11: Uda Walawe to Kataragama
Depart for Kataragama, stopping for traditional "Pulled Tea." Participate in a pooja ceremony and explore other local shrines. Dinner in the Muslim Quarter features local specialties. Overnight at Peacock Beach Hotel, Hambantota.
Day 12: Kataragama to Galle
Drive to Galle, pausing to see stilt fishermen. In Galle, visit the Dutch Fortress (UNESCO site) and enjoy indigenous snacks. Overnight at Amari Hotel, Galle.
Day 13: Galle Cooking Demonstration
Join the chef for a market trip to buy ingredients, then prepare and enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch. Spend the rest of the day exploring Galle. Overnight at Amari Hotel, Galle.
Day 14: Galle to Colombo
Transfer to Colombo with stops at local “Economic Centres” and “Lak Sathosa” outlets. Explore Colombo’s mask museum, moonstone mines, and enjoy a seafood lunch. Relax in the evening with street food for dinner. Overnight at Galle Face Hotel, Colombo.
Day 15: Colombo City Tour
Tour Colombo’s landmarks, including a Buddhist temple, the Dutch Wolvendaal Church, and the BMICH. Visit "Hela Bojun" for local snacks and enjoy an evening at the famous Ministry of Crab for dinner. Overnight at Galle Face Hotel.
Day 16:
Departure Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
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