Discovering Sri Lanka: Holy sites, mountains, whales and beaches

In the morning we take a train to Hatton (about 3 hours on the way), and then travel to the nearby foot of the Sri Pada mountain along the scenic tea plantations. Here we will continue our guided tour to Sri Lanka and check into a guesthouse with a beautiful view of the mountains covered with emerald jungle. The next morning, at about 2 in the morning, we begin to walk to the top of the sacred mountain to meet an unforgettable sunrise at an altitude of more than 2000 meters above sea level. This hike will take us about 4 hours. All our efforts will be generously rewarded with unforgettable views - the sun rises over the valley under our feet and breaks through the fluffy clouds of the morning fog. 

We walk down, have breakfast and some rest, and then go for a walk around tea plantations and small villages. We will reach the lake and relax at the waterfalls, enjoying the sound of the water and wild jungle.

In the morning we take a train to the mountain town of Ella (4 hours on the way). For four hours we will be admiring tea plantations, jungles, rivers directly from the window of our car, traveling along one of the most picturesque railways in the world. The most daring can take the vestibule, sitting on the floor and dangling their feet from the steps. Cliffs and valleys will float right under your feet! In Ella we check into a hotel and relax. 

Early in the morning we begin our mini-hike to the Ella rock. We will walk for about 4 hours, enjoying stunning views of the valley. We get down from the cliff and take a small path to the tea factory. Here we will learn about the entire process of green tea manufacturing - from leaf collection to packaging, and of course we will try the freshest tea. A beautiful cup, delicious aromatic tea - and the views of endless tea fields. Yes, happiness is in simple things! The end of a beautiful day should be beautiful - we will enjoy a lovely sunset on top of the hill, known as Little Adam's Peak.

Our guided tour to Sri Lanka continues. After breakfast we drive to the southern coastal town of Weligama (a 6 hours trip). On the way we will stop for lunch, and also drop by several Buddhist temples. We check into a guesthouse near the sea, and enjoy ourselves on endless sandy beaches. 

Early next morning you can take a boat trip to the open sea to watch whales! Those who wish can also take surfing lessons, go on a tour of the spice plantations on Lake Kogalla, visit a turtle or snake nursery. You can also go to Yala National Park (2 hours on the way) to see herds of wild elephants, leopards, crocodiles and exotic birds. Finally, you can do absolutely nothing, and just relax, lying in the shade of palm trees, and listening to the eternal sound of waves.

We go to Galle (about 1 hour on the way) - a city inside an old Dutch fort. Let`s enjoy the elegant architecture of the colonist era, explore the museums, Catholic cathedrals, and observe local life on the colorful streets. 

Next, we head to Unawatuna, a small town five kilometers from Galle. Here we will visit Shanthi stupa - a Buddhist stupa built by the Japanese Buddhist order. Together with the pilgrims, we walk around the stupa clockwise three times, examining the Buddha statues facing the four cardinal points. And what a view opens from this spot!

We leave for the capital Colombo (about 6 hours on the way). We check into a hotel and go out for a walk around the city. We begin in the main temple of Colombo - Gangaramaya, built in the 19th century. Experienced travelers will recognize Thai, Indian and even Chinese elements in the architecture of this shrine! With a little luck, we will be able to attend the ceremony and watch the local monks and parishioners. 

Next, we head to the Viharamahadevi park, named after the queen, which ruled the country in the first century BC. In the evening we walk along the seafront promenade. Schoolchildren from all over the country are brought here to relax after tours of the capital. We can join them for eating street food, or flying kites. 

The next day, we go to the airport and fly home. Our group trip to Sri Lanka has come to an end. Thank you for exploring with us!