Arrive in Colombo and Transfer to your Negombo
Hotel

Your private Sri Lanka expedition begins with your arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in Colombo. Upon landing, a representative of New Paths Expeditions will greet you and assist with a smooth transfer to Negombo, just 25 minutes away.

Check in at the beachfront Suriya Resort, a tranquil retreat ideal for unwinding after your international flight. Enjoy access to the resort’s 12,000-square-foot swimming pool with Jacuzzi beds, a spa, and a peaceful beach known for birdwatching and sunset walks.

Later in the day, meet your Local Head Naturalist for a detailed welcome briefing, providing insight into the adventures ahead. In the evening, enjoy a cocktail followed by a delightful welcome dinner, introducing you to Sri Lanka’s legendary hospitality and cuisine.

Overnight at Suriya Hotel. (D)

Negombo to Habarana and Sigiriya

After breakfast, depart by private vehicle for Habarana, the gateway to Sri Lanka’s famed Cultural Triangle. During the 4-hour scenic drive, enjoy cultural and wildlife stops along the way, offering opportunities to capture the vibrant countryside and local life.

Arrive at the Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, a luxurious 5-star retreat nestled within a wildlife-rich forest setting. After a relaxing lunch, take time to explore the lodge’s beautiful gardens and possibly spot endemic bird species.

In the afternoon, visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s most iconic archaeological landmark. For those up to the challenge, climb the 600-foot Lion Rock, where you’ll discover the ancient palace ruins, vivid frescoes, and the historic royal gardens. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of the surrounding gardens and museum, offering fascinating insights and rewarding birdwatching opportunities.

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge. (B, L, D)

Polonnaruwa, Local Village Visit, and Wildlife
Excursion (Loris)

After breakfast, take a short drive to Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals. Explore its well-preserved archaeological ruins, including the Royal Palace, the remarkable Gal Viharaya, and a series of impressive Buddha statues carved into solid rock.

Return to Habarana for a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, offering a taste of the island’s authentic flavors. In the afternoon, visit a local village, where you’ll have the chance to experience traditional customs and daily life, providing deeper insight into Sri Lanka’s vibrant rural culture.

In the evening, enjoy a unique nocturnal wildlife excursion at Popham Arboretum. With expert guidance, search for the elusive slender loris, a rare and fascinating nocturnal primate, and the only known “poisonous” primate in the world. This special encounter makes for an unforgettable wildlife experience.

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge. (B, L, D)

Anuradhapura and Aukana

This morning, travel to Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Founded in the 4th century BC, this sacred city served as the capital of the Anuradhapura Kingdom for over a millennium. Explore its remarkably well-preserved ruins, including ancient stupas, monasteries, and royal palaces. Anuradhapura remains one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in the country, revered by Buddhists, Tamils, and Hindus alike for its deep cultural and spiritual heritage.

After lunch, continue to the Aukana Temple, home to the renowned Aukana Buddha Statue. Standing an impressive 36 feet tall, this masterpiece is carved from a single granite rock and depicts the Buddha in the Asisa Mudra, or the posture of blessing. Admire the statue’s exquisite detail, particularly the delicate rendering of the robe and the serene expression that has made Aukana one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic religious monuments.

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge. (B, L, D)

Dambulla, Matale, and Kandy

Begin the day with a visit to the Golden Temple of Dambulla, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated historical site and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore this remarkable Cave Monastery, home to over 2,000-year-old murals illustrating the life of the Buddha. Inside the complex, you will find 157 Buddha statues, including a striking 49-foot reclining Buddha. For panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, an optional 364-step climb to the top rewards you with breathtaking scenery.

Later, travel to Matale and visit its renowned Spice Garden, where you’ll learn about the medicinal and cosmetic uses of traditional Sri Lankan spices. Afterward, enjoy a hands-on cooking demonstration, followed by a flavorful lunch featuring authentic local dishes.

In the afternoon, continue to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Ride a tuk-tuk through the vibrant streets before attending an exciting Kandy cultural show, showcasing traditional Sri Lankan dance and music. Conclude the day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most sacred pilgrimage sites, renowned for its ornate carvings and rich spiritual significance.

Overnight at Cinnamon Lodge Kandy. (B, L, D)

Kandy, Train Ride to Nanu Oya, and Nuwara Eliya

This morning, board the iconic scenic train from Kandy to Nanu Oya, one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. Travel in first-class comfort, enjoying a packed lunch as you pass through Sri Lanka’s lush hill country, with its rolling tea plantations, misty mountains, and vibrant local villages. The journey offers unforgettable views and an authentic glimpse into Sri Lankan rural life.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, located over 6,000 feet above sea level, discover a town known for its colonial charm and cool climate. Often referred to as “Little England,” Nuwara Eliya is surrounded by tea estates, manicured gardens, and historic architecture. Take time to relax and explore this picturesque highland retreat.

Your day ends at the elegant Grand Hotel, a British colonial landmark renowned for its refined ambiance and award-winning gardens, offering the perfect blend of comfort and history.

Overnight at the Grand Hotel. (B, L, D)

Horton Plains National Park and Nuwara Eliya

Begin the day early with an excursion to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes, rich biodiversity, and outstanding birdwatching opportunities. This is the only national park in Sri Lanka where you can explore on foot, making for an immersive and intimate nature experience. Enjoy a packed breakfast as you walk along misty mountains, cloud forests, and meandering rivers, ideal settings for nature photography.

Keep an eye out for purple-faced langurs, wild boar, barking deer, and—if you’re lucky—even a leopard. The park’s highland plateau offers panoramic views and unforgettable encounters with Sri Lanka’s endemic wildlife.

Return to The Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya for a leisurely lunch and an afternoon of relaxation. Later, take a stroll through the town’s colonial-era streets, where historic architecture and beautiful gardens reflect its British heritage.

Overnight at the Grand Hotel. (B, L, D)

Tea Plantation, Udawalawe National Park, and Yala

Begin the day with a visit to a local tea plantation and factory, where you will learn about the art of tea production in Sri Lanka. Discover the history and legacy of Ceylon tea, from its British colonial origins to its recognition as one of the world’s finest teas. During your guided tour, gain insights into the tea processing methods and enjoy a tasting session of distinct, flavorful tea varieties.

Afterward, continue your journey to Udawalawe, where you will stop for lunch before embarking on an exciting safari in Udawalawe National Park. This park, covering 119 square miles, is renowned for its large herds of Sri Lankan elephants, as well as its diversity of water birds and other native wildlife. Udawalawe serves as a vital sanctuary for animals displaced by the construction of the Udawalawe Reservoir, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts.

In the evening, transfer to Yala National Park, where you will check in at the Cinnamon Wild Hotel. Enjoy a relaxing evening and prepare for the next day’s adventures.

Overnight at Cinnamon Wild Hotel. (B, L, D)

Double Safari Adventure at Yala National Park

Begin your day with an early morning safari in Yala National Park, one of Asia’s premier wildlife destinations. Established in 1900, Yala is renowned for its remarkable biodiversity, home to 44 species of mammals and 215 species of birds. During your safari, search for iconic wildlife such as leopards, Sri Lankan elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted deer, peacocks, and crocodiles. Yala is world-famous for having the highest concentration of leopards globally, making it a highlight for big cat enthusiasts.

After returning to the hotel for lunch and some time to relax, embark on a second safari in the late afternoon, increasing your chances of witnessing elusive wildlife in action as the animals become more active during cooler hours.

In the evening, enjoy an engaging lecture on leopards, led by your Master Local Naturalist, providing fascinating insights into the behavior and conservation of these magnificent big cats.

Overnight at Cinnamon Wild Hotel. (B, L, D)

Bundala National Park & Transfer to Mirissa

Start your day with an optional early morning safari at Yala National Park, offering another opportunity to spot elusive wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.

Later in the morning, travel to Bundala National Park, designated as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. This protected area is an important wintering ground for migratory water birds, and home to 197 bird species, including the majestic greater flamingo. Bundala also shelters 32 species of mammals and boasts 383 species of plants, making it a hotspot for wildlife photography and birdwatching enthusiasts.

After your wildlife experience at Bundala, enjoy a scenic 2.5-hour drive to the coastal town of Mirissa. Upon arrival, check in at the Mandara Resort Mirissa, where you can relax by the Indian Ocean and unwind after a day of exploration.

Overnight at Mandara Resort Mirissa. (B, L, D)

Whale Watching Excursion, and Galle

Begin the day with an early morning whale-watching excursion off the southern coast of Sri Lanka, one of the world’s best locations to see blue whales. With a 90% success rate, this unforgettable boat trip offers opportunities to observe not only blue whales, but also Bryde’s whales, pilot whales, sperm whales, and fin whales. You may also spot several species of dolphins, including common, spinner, and bottlenose dolphins. On rare occasions, humpback whales and even orcas have been sighted, making this a truly spectacular marine experience.

After returning to your hotel for lunch, spend the afternoon exploring Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later expanded by the Dutch, this historic fort combines colonial architecture with a vibrant local atmosphere. Stroll along its cobblestone streets, visit museums, browse boutiques and jewelry shops, and relax in charming cafés as you soak in the rich history and culture of old-world Galle.

Overnight at Mandara Resort Mirissa. (B, L, D)

Colombo, Katunayake and Fly US

After breakfast, embark on a short city tour of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s dynamic capital that seamlessly blends modern energy with colonial charm. Explore Pettah Market, Colombo’s bustling commercial hub, and stroll through the historic Fort area. Visit the elegant Cinnamon Gardens, the city’s most fashionable district, and take in the serenity of Gangarama Temple by Beira Lake.

Continue your exploration with stops at Independence Square, the Old Parliament Building, and the iconic Galle Face Green, a lively oceanfront promenade. This tour offers a final glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich history and contemporary culture.

Enjoy a farewell lunch at a top-tier restaurant, celebrating the conclusion of your extraordinary Sri Lanka Private Expedition. In the afternoon, transfer to Katunayake, where a day-use room at the Airport Garden Hotel is provided, allowing you time to relax and freshen up before your international flight.

In the evening, you will be transferred to Colombo International Airport to begin your journey back to the U.S. Safe travels!

Overnight at Airport Garden Hotel (day-use only). (B, L)

Mirissa and Sinharaja Wildlife

After an early breakfast at 7:30 AM, depart from Mirissa for a scenic 4.5-hour drive to the Sinharaja Forest Reserve, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the last remaining primary tropical rainforest in Sri Lanka. Known as a biodiversity hotspot, Sinharaja is home to an extraordinary array of endemic flora and fauna.

Upon arrival, enjoy lunch at your lodge before setting out on your first guided birdwatching excursion in the reserve. Sinharaja boasts over 60% endemic trees and is a haven for birders, with the chance to spot rare species such as the Ceylon blue magpie and Layard’s parakeet. The reserve is also home to more than 50% of Sri Lanka’s native mammals and butterflies, as well as a variety of reptiles, amphibians, and insects.

Spend the afternoon immersed in this pristine natural environment, learning from your expert birding guide and capturing unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Dinner and overnight at Blue Magpie Lodge. (B, L, D)

Sinharaja Wildlife

Begin your day with an early breakfast before embarking on a full-day birdwatching expedition in the Sinharaja Rainforest, Sri Lanka’s premier birding destination and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Accompanied by your Master Local Naturalist, a renowned bird specialist, you will explore this biodiversity hotspot, home to 19 of the island’s 20 endemic bird species, many classified as endangered.

Spend the day immersed in the dense, pristine rainforest, with opportunities to spot a remarkable variety of rare and endemic bird species, including the Ceylon hanging parrot, Ceylon grey hornbill, ashy-headed laughing thrush, Layard’s parakeet, jungle fowl, spur fowl, Ceylon wood pigeon, brown-capped babbler, red-faced malkoha, and the iconic Ceylon blue magpie. The diversity and beauty of Sinharaja make it a bucket-list destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts alike.

Conclude your wildlife-rich day with dinner and relaxation at your lodge, surrounded by the sounds of the rainforest.

Dinner and overnight at Blue Magpie Lodge. (B, L, D)

Colombo and Fly Back Home

After breakfast, depart Sinharaja and drive to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital city. Embark on a short city tour, experiencing Colombo’s unique blend of modernity and colonial heritage. Visit bustling commercial districts, leafy residential areas, and cultural landmarks that reveal the city’s rich history and dynamic present.

Following the tour, enjoy a leisurely lunch at a carefully selected local restaurant. In the afternoon, transfer to Katunayake and check in to the Airport Garden Hotel, where a day-use room is provided. Take this opportunity to relax, freshen up, and prepare for your international flight.

Later in the evening, you will be transferred to Colombo International Airport for your return flight to the United States, concluding your unforgettable Sri Lanka Private Expedition.

Day-use at the Airport Garden Hotel. (B, L)