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Jrny Socials

Wayfarer Anki's Sri Lanka

Temples & Tea

CURATED BY

Ankitha Rajendaran

TRIP DATES

16 Aug 25 - 21 Aug 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 875

CULTURE

Overview Stay Itinerary FAQs

Wayfarer Anki's Sri Lanka : Temples & Tea

TRIP DATES

16 Aug 25-21 Aug 25

PRICE PER PERSON

$ 875

About this Jrny

Discover Sri Lanka's rich heritage, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture on this brilliant six-day adventure. This Jrny is curated by adventurer and storyteller Ankitha Rajendaran (@wayfarer_anki on Instagram).

Arrive in Sigiriya and climb the iconic Rock Fortress before exploring nearby villages and marvelling at Dambulla Cave Temple. Experience thrilling safaris at Minneriya National Park, teeming with wild elephants. Journey to Kandy through spice-scented Matale gardens, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, and enjoy traditional dance performances by Kandy Lake. Stroll through Royal Botanical Gardens amongst exotic blooms, find inspiration at peaceful Buddha statues, and indulge in soothing Ayurvedic spa treatments. Take the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya, revealing breathtaking vistas, waterfalls, and tea plantations where you can savour Sri Lanka's famous brew. Join this unforgettable adventure bursting with history, nature, and joy!

Ankitha is a fearless traveller with a passion for going where few others have gone, journeying through 106 countries across all seven continents to unearth stories from the world's most remote and complex corners.

Highlights

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and visit Dambulla Cave Temple
Explore Kandy's Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Wander through spice gardens
Enjoy a cultural dance show
Visit Kandy's Royal Botanical Gardens and Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue
View breathtaking vista's with Nuwara Eliya's scenic train ride
Join a tea plantation tour, visit waterfalls, and lakes

Curated By

Ankitha Rajendaran

A fearless traveller and storyteller, with journeys across over 100 countries and 7 continents

21 Jrnys

26 Happy Travellers

Overview

Dates

16/08/25 - 21/08/25

Suggested Ages

Min 12

Duration

6 Days

Activity level

Moderate

Price per person

$ 875

Travel Style

comfort

Maximum Group size

Itinerary

Sat 16 Aug

Arrive in Colombo - Drive to Sigiriya

Sun 17 Aug

Sigiriya & Dambulla Exploration

Mon 18 Aug

Sigiriya - Kandy

Tue 19 Aug

A Day in Kandy

Wed 20 Aug

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Thu 21 Aug

Nuwara Eliya - Colombo - Departure

Stay

CHECK IN 16 Aug

2 N

CHECK OUT 18 Aug

Elephas Resort & Spa

Sigiriya

CHECK IN 18 Aug

2 N

CHECK OUT 20 Aug

Hotel Topaz Kandy

Kandy

CHECK IN 20 Aug

1 N

CHECK OUT 21 Aug

Araliya Red Hotel - Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya

Your Daily Itinerary

Sat 16 Aug

Arrive in Colombo - Drive to Sigiriya

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, to begin the journey into Sri Lanka’s lush heartlands. Leave the city behind as you head towards Sigiriya, winding past coconut palms, roadside stalls, and stretches of rural greenery. Settle in at your hotel and take a moment to unwind—let the stillness of the countryside ease you into the rhythm of the island.

Later, climb the ancient Pidurangala Rock. Follow a forested path up through boulders and roots, and reach a panoramic summit that offers sweeping views of Sigiriya’s famed Lion Rock bathed in golden light. Watch as the sun dips behind the distant hills, painting the sky in dusky orange and lavender. Return to your hotel for a restful night surrounded by nature’s quiet. Spend the night in Sigiriya.

Meals Included: None

Arrive in Colombo - Drive to Sigiriya - Day 1 image

Activities

Meet & Greet at Bandaranaike Airport

09:00 - 11:00

Arrive at the Bandaranaike International Airport (airport code: CMB). Once you pass immigration, retrieve your luggage and clear customs. Look for a JrnyOn representative holding a placard with your name at the exit.

Duration: 30 min
Distance: 12 km/ 7.5 miles

Drive to Sigiriya

11:00 - 15:00

Travel by road to Sigiriya, where lush countryside gives way to dramatic rock formations. Watch paddy fields roll past. Arrive ready to explore the ancient fortress rising above the jungle.

Duration: 4 hours
Distance: 175 kms / 108 miles

Optional Activities

Pidurangala Rock

17:00 - 18:30

Climb Pidurangala Rock in the golden light of evening. Navigate the rugged path as the jungle hushes below. Reach the summit just in time—watch the sky burn orange behind Sigiriya’s silhouette. Take a moment. Let the breeze and fading sun frame an unforgettable view.

Sun 17 Aug

Sigiriya & Dambulla Exploration

Start the day with a hearty breakfast before heading out to explore Sri Lanka's most iconic landmark. Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where ancient frescoes, landscaped gardens and panoramic views reward your effort.

Choose to delve into rural life with a village visit. Ride a bullock cart through quiet lanes, drift across a lake by catamaran, and join local cooking demonstrations using traditional clay pots and fresh ingredients. Continue by road to the Golden Rock Temple in Dambulla, known for its richly painted cave interiors and centuries-old Buddha statues. Marvel at the serenity and artistry echoing through this sacred site.

If time and energy allow, opt for an afternoon safari in Minneriya National Park. Watch elephants congregate near the water's edge and keep your eyes peeled for deer, monkeys and exotic birdlife. You can rest and reflect on a day steeped in history, culture and nature. Return to Sigiriya for the night, enriched by this unforgettable adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Sigiriya & Dambulla Exploration - Day 2 image

Activities

Breakfast at Hotel

08:00 - 09:00

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the day's adventures.

Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress

09:00 - 11:00

Climb the ancient stone steps of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, rising above lush jungle. Gaze at faded frescoes, pass through colossal lion paws, and reach the summit. Take in sweeping views once reserved for kings. Stand where history and legend meet atop this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sigiriya Village Tour

11:00 - 14:00

Wander through Sigiriya’s lush village paths. Ride a bullock cart past paddy fields, then drift across a quiet lake by boat. Step into a local kitchen—grind spices, stir clay pots, taste your own creation. Discover rural rhythms and the simple charm of village life.

Dambulla Cave Temple

14:00 - 14:30

Drive through Sri Lanka’s lush interior and arrive at the Golden Rock Temple. Climb the gentle slope to discover Dambulla’s ancient cave sanctuary, where gilded Buddha statues rest beneath painted ceilings. Take in the serene atmosphere and vivid murals that line the stone chambers.

Optional Activities

Minneriya National Park Safari

15:00 - 18:00

Venture into Minneriya National Park for an unforgettable afternoon safari. Watch elephants gather near ancient reservoirs, spot monkeys leaping through treetops, and glimpse crocodiles along the water’s edge. Soak in the wild rhythm of Sri Lanka’s untouched wilderness.

Duration: 3 hours

Mon 18 Aug

Sigiriya - Kandy

Start the day with breakfast at the hotel before departing Sigiriya. Journey south through lush countryside and rolling hills as you make your way to Kandy. En route, stop at a spice garden in Matale—discover the roots, bark and seeds that have flavoured Sri Lankan life for centuries.

Continue to Kandy, the cultural capital nestled among misty hills. Visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that draws pilgrims from across the island. Wander along the shores of Kandy Lake, created by the last king of Sri Lanka, and pause at a viewpoint to take in panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding hills.

As dusk settles, head to a nearby theatre to witness a vibrant display of traditional Sri Lankan dance—colourful costumes, rhythmic drums and fire-breathing performances bring age-old stories to life. Check in to your hotel and unwind for the night in the cool highland air.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Breakfast at Hotel

08:00 - 09:00

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the day's adventures.

Drive to Kandy via Matale

09:00 - 12:00

Drive through lush hills to Kandy. Pause in Matale to explore spice gardens and breathe in fragrant air.

Duration: 3 hours
Distance: 90 kms / 56 miles

Matale Spice Garden

12:00 - 13:00

Pause at Matale Spice Garden and explore the vibrant world of Sri Lankan spices. Discover fragrant cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves growing in lush surroundings. Learn about their significance and uses in cosmetics and also ayurvedic medicine.

Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

13:00 - 15:00

Explore the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site steeped in history and devotion. Feel the spiritual atmosphere as you wander through halls where tradition and reverence meet in Sri Lanka’s cultural heart. The Temple houses a revered relic of the Buddha - his tooth, and is a major pilgrimage destination for Buddhists worldwide. The temple's architecture blends Kandyan and South Indian styles.

Kandy Lake & Viewpoint

15:00 - 17:00

Stroll around the tranquil Kandy Lake, embraced by lush greenery and historic charm. Pause at the viewpoint for sweeping vistas of the city and surrounding hills. Absorb the peaceful atmosphere as gentle waters reflect the sky, inviting quiet reflection in the heart of Sri Lanka.

Traditional Cultural Show

17:00 - 18:00

Experience a traditional cultural dance show as evening falls. Let vibrant costumes and rhythmic movements captivate your senses. Immerse yourself in the rich heritage brought to life through graceful steps and storytelling. Feel the energy and passion unfold before your eyes.

Tue 19 Aug

A Day in Kandy

Wake up in the hill capital of Kandy and enjoy breakfast at the hotel, surrounded by cool breezes and the sounds of the highlands. Set off to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, where towering palms, orchid houses and centuries-old trees create a lush green haven. Stroll through shaded pathways and vibrant floral displays—this is a living museum of tropical botany.

In the afternoon, visit the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, perched on a hill above the city. Gaze out over the panoramic view of Kandy’s rooftops, lake and forested hills. Alternatively, spend this time exploring at your own pace. Choose to unwind with a traditional Ayurvedic spa session—let herbal oils and expert hands soothe both body and mind.

Later, head to Kandy City Centre for shopping and leisure. Browse local handicrafts, colourful batiks or simply relax at a café and watch the rhythm of Kandyan life unfold. As evening sets in, return to your hotel for a peaceful overnight stay.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Breakfast at Hotel

08:00 - 09:00

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the day's adventures.

Royal Botanical Gardens, Peradeniya

09:00 - 12:00

Explore the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, where vibrant blooms and towering palms create a lush sanctuary. Wander shaded paths and discover exotic plants. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty and pause by tranquil lakes. Let the garden’s calm embrace refresh the senses.

Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue & Kandy Viewpoint

12:00 - 13:00

Ascend to the Bahirawakanda Buddha Statue, standing tall and serene above Kandy. Take in sweeping views of the city and surrounding hills. Embrace the calm as you explore this spiritual landmark. Capture the panoramic vistas that stretch across the lush landscape below.

Kandy City Centre

16:00 - 19:00

Explore Kandy City Centre with leisure and shopping at your fingertips. Wander through vibrant shops showcasing local crafts and contemporary fashion. Take time to relax in cafés, soak up the lively atmosphere, and enjoy the blend of culture and modernity in this bustling hub.

Optional Activities

Ayurvedic Spa

14:30 - 15:30

Indulge in a soothing Ayurvedic spa experience. Let the gentle therapies restore balance and calm your mind. Feel tension melt away as warm oils nourish your skin. Embrace tranquillity and emerge refreshed, renewed, and ready to embrace the day with renewed vitality.

Wed 20 Aug

Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Begin the day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel before setting off on one of the world’s most enchanting train journeys. Travel from Kandy to Nanu Oya through emerald-green hills, tea-clad slopes and misty highland forests. Keep your eyes peeled as the scenery shifts into a painter’s palette of colour and light—rolling landscapes, smiling villagers, and colonial-era stations pass by in slow, graceful rhythm.

Step off the train and head to the cascading Ramboda Waterfalls—pause to take in the cool spray and the lush backdrop. Nearby, visit the Hanuman Temple nestled amid the hills, a site revered for its connection to the Ramayana.

Continue into the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country. Wander through a working tea plantation and gain insight into the art of tea making at a local factory. Breathe in the crisp air scented with eucalyptus and fresh leaves.

In the late afternoon, stroll around Gregory Lake or unwind with a boat ride. Then explore the peaceful paths and floral displays of Victoria Park, a favourite with locals. Spend the night in Nuwara Eliya, known fondly as ‘Little England’, where colonial charm meets cool mountain air.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Activities

Breakfast at Hotel

07:00 - 08:00

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the day's adventures.

Train from Kandy to Nanu Oya

08:00 - 11:00

Enjoy a scenic train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya, winding through lush tea plantations and misty hills. Watch vibrant landscapes unfold outside the window. Embrace the tranquil rhythm of the rails and savour the beauty that ranks among the world’s most stunning rail routes.

Duration: 3 hours

Ramboda Waterfalls & Hanuman Temple

11:00 - 13:00

Explore the striking Ramboda Waterfalls, where cascading waters carve through lush greenery. Wander the serene paths around the Hanuman Temple, absorbing its peaceful aura. Feel the harmony of nature and spirituality blend seamlessly in this captivating setting. Embrace the moment fully.

Tea Plantation & Tea Factory

14:00 - 16:00

Discover the art of tea from leaf to cup. Wander through lush plantations where tea bushes stretch across rolling hills. Visit the factory to see leaves transform through traditional methods and savour the rich aromas of fresh brews.

Gregory Lake & Victoria Park

16:00 - 18:00

Stroll along Gregory Lake’s tranquil shores and soak in the scenic views. Discover Victoria Park’s lush gardens and vibrant flora. Wander peaceful paths, breathe in fresh air, and embrace the calm surroundings. Take time to explore this green haven at a gentle pace.

Thu 21 Aug

Nuwara Eliya - Colombo - Departure

Start your day with a final breakfast in the cool highlands of Nuwara Eliya. Take in the crisp morning air, perhaps stepping out to admire the colonial charm one last time. Then, begin the journey back towards Colombo, descending from the hills as tea estates give way to lush lowland scenery.

The drive to Bandaranaike International Airport takes you through ever-changing landscapes—watch as misty mountains roll into tropical plains. On the way, stop briefly at St. Clair’s and Devon Waterfalls, two scenic cascades nestled amid emerald-green plantations. Stretch your legs, breathe in the fresh spray, and savour a last look at Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Continue the onward drive to the airport, arriving with time to reflect on the days gone by. Whether it’s the warm smiles, the ancient wonders, or the rhythm of island life that lingers most, carry it with you as you prepare to board your flight.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nuwara Eliya - Colombo - Departure - Day 6 image

Activities

Breakfast at Hotel

07:00 - 08:00

Begin your day with a relaxed breakfast at the hotel to fuel up for the day's adventures.

Drive to the Airport

08:00 - 13:00

Drive back to Bandaranaike International Airport (airport code: CMB).
Note: Make sure your departure flight is post 4pm, as it is a 5 hour journey from Nuwara Eliya.

Duration: 5 hours
Distance: 153 km/ 95 miles

St.Clair’s & Devon Waterfalls

08:00 - 08:30

St. Clair’s and Devon Falls are two of the most picturesque waterfalls in Sri Lanka’s central highlands. Often referred to as the “Little Niagara of Sri Lanka,” St. Clair’s Falls cascades gracefully through lush tea plantations, offering wide, panoramic views best enjoyed in the early morning mist. Just a few kilometres away, Devon Falls plunges nearly 100 metres. Both waterfalls are easily accessible from the roadside on the Hatton–Nuwara Eliya route, making them the perfect place to stop for pictures.

Depart from Bandaranaike Airport

16:00 - 23:59

Today your JrnyOn journey comes to an end as you fly out of Bandaranaike International Airport (Airport Code: CMB).

Frequently Asked Questions

This Sri Lanka trip is perfect if you love exploring diverse landscapes, ancient heritage sites, and vibrant culture all within a compact journey. Whether you’re drawn to climbing the majestic Sigiriya Rock, discovering sacred temples in Kandy, or soaking in the serene beauty of tea plantations and waterfalls in Nuwara Eliya, this itinerary offers a wonderful blend of adventure, history, and relaxation. If you enjoy immersing yourself in rich traditions, scenic train rides, and cultural performances, this trip is definitely for you!

- International and Domestic flights

- Visa fees (if applicable)

- Alcoholic beverages

- Personal expenses (e.g., drinks, laundry, tips for guides and drivers)

- Camera/video charges during sightseeing

- Tips for guides and drivers

- Additional meals not mentioned in the itinerary

- Pre or post night at airport hotel if required

No, Ankitha will not be travelling, This trip is curated by her and will be led by a JrnyOn team member or local experts.

Absolutely! Solo travellers are more than welcome on this trip. Many of your fellow travellers will be travelling solo, making it a brilliant opportunity to meet like-minded people while discovering destinations together.

This tour begins and ends at Bandaranaike International Airport near Colombo (Airport code: CMB). The group transfer will be leaving for Sigiriya at 11am on 16th Jan. If your flight arrives the previous day or late night, we can help you with the option of booking a pre-night at an airport hotel.

Most travellers require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) visa to enter Sri Lanka, which must be applied for online before arrival on the website- https://eta.gov.lk. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Please check the official Sri Lankan government website for the latest visa information. If you need help with visa arrangements, please contact [email protected]

Travel insurance is mandatory to protect against loss of personal valuables, illness or unforeseen late cancellations. While suppliers make every effort to ensure guests' safety, we cannot be held responsible for events beyond our control. For those looking for an insurance supplier, we can recommend Insurance Nomads. Write to them at [email protected] with your Jrny details for insurance options.

No mandatory vaccinations are required. We advise you to check with your doctor in case you have any personal requirements. Also check with your local clinic or doctor a few weeks before the trip for any change in recommendations.

Yes, airport transfers are included in this tour. On 16th Jan we have a group transfer at 11am for Sigiriya. If your flight arrives the previous day or late night, we can help you with the option of booking a pre-night at an airport hotel.

There are no activities scheduled for the first day. The standard check-in time at the hotel would be 1400 hours, and you can plan your arrival accordingly.

The hotel check-out time is usually 1100 hours or 1200 hours. It is a 5 hour drive from Nuwara Eliya to Bandaranaike Airport near Colombo, so please schedule your departure flight post 4pm.

Children under 12 are not allowed on this Jrny. Children above 12 are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.

Normally, yes! In some cases if the exact hotels are unavailable for any reason, we'll make sure you're put up in hotels that are equivalent to the original in terms of location and facilities. Rest assured, your stay will be as promised.

Please read through the itinerary in detail to understand the intensity of the activities planned. There are some long walks scheduled. Overall for the tour on a scale from 1 - 5, a fitness level of 2 would be ideal.

Most travel is by road between destinations. The drive from Bandaranaike Airport to Sigiriya and from Sigiriya to Kandy involves a few hours on the road, but routes are scenic and comfortable.

Absolutely, a variety of vegetarian meal options will be available. Vegan options may be limited but available.

We try and cater to other diet restrictions as much as possible. But, we do focus on regional local cuisine. So there will be limitations. Please write to [email protected] with your booking number in the subject line to inform us well in advance of any such restrictions.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with regional variations. The central hill country around Nuwara Eliya is cooler and pleasant, while lowland areas like Sigiriya and Kandy are warmer. For up to date weather information, visit weather.com before your trip begins.

We require a 35% advance payment at the time of booking.

The remaining balance needs to be paid in full at least 50 days before the date of travel

We have the following cancellation terms for this tour:

Cancellation up to 91 days from the date of travel: 10% cancellation charges (as per the total trip cost) will be levied, the rest will be refunded to you

From 90 - 46 days from the date of travel: 30% cancellation charges will be levied

45 days or less from the date of travel: 100% cancellation charges will be levied

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