Coastal Path Explorer

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and meet your VAC Tours representative. Transfer to Sigiriya with a stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. These caves once sheltered King Valagamba during his 14-year exile and were later transformed into a majestic rock temple upon his return. The preserved statues and murals inside the caves remain vibrant due to their protection from sunlight, making them remarkable to witness. Overnight stay in Sigiriya.

Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress in the morning. Built by King Kassyapa, this iconic site features landscaped gardens, ponds, frescoes and palace ruins. After breakfast continue to Anuradhapura, stopping for a safari in Minneriya National Park. Minneriya is famed for its large wild elephant population and the seasonal phenomenon known as “The Gathering,” where around 300 elephants come together near the reservoir. Overnight in Anuradhapura.

Explore Anuradhapura, the ancient capital and the spiritual center of early Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Visit dagobas, monasteries, palaces and the sacred Bodhi Tree. Highlights include Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, once one of the tallest structures in the ancient world. After sightseeing, travel to Trincomalee for an overnight stay.

After breakfast visit Pigeon Island Marine Sanctuary, one of Sri Lanka’s two marine national parks. The sanctuary covers over 470 hectares and is named for the endemic Blue Rock Pigeons that inhabit the island. Located just off Nilaveli, this is one of the island’s most beautiful coastal stretches. Spend the rest of the day relaxing on the beach. Overnight in Trincomalee.

Breakfast at the hotel and transfer to Pasikuda, known for its shallow, calm waters and long sandy bay. Enjoy a relaxed beach day and unwind by the coast.

Drive to Arugam Bay, a laid-back coastal town loved by surfers from around the world. With a casual atmosphere and some of Sri Lanka’s best waves, A-Bay is the highlight of the east coast for many travellers. Overnight stay in Arugam Bay.

Travel to Ella and relax upon arrival. After lunch climb Little Adam’s Peak, a scenic ridge made up of three green peaks offering panoramic views over valleys, tea plantations and rural landscapes. This climb is rewarding and accessible for most travellers. Overnight in Ella.

Drive to Lipton’s Seat, accessed by tuk-tuk through the lush Haputale tea fields. This viewpoint is where Sir Thomas Lipton admired his plantations and planned his renowned tea legacy. Visit Dambetenna Tea Factory and later explore Ella Rock and Rawana Cave, linked to local legends involving King Ravana and Princess Sita. Overnight in Ella.

Head to Yala, Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife park, known for having one of the highest leopard densities in Asia. The park spans jungles, lakes, grasslands and coastal areas. Only certain blocks are open to the public in order to preserve the natural environment. Overnight in Yala or Tissamaharama.

After breakfast, drive to Tangalle, a peaceful, less-visited stretch of Sri Lanka’s southern coastline. With soft white sands, turquoise waters, palm groves and a friendly fishing village atmosphere, Tangalle offers a calm and scenic escape. Overnight in Tangalle.

Travel to Hikkaduwa, stopping to see traditional stilt fishermen in Koggala. This unique coastal fishing method involves balancing on a wooden pole anchored to the seabed. Continue to Hikkaduwa and enjoy a relaxed beach evening.

Drive to Colombo, visiting a Sea Turtle Hatchery and Rescue Centre en route. Learn about conservation efforts for endangered turtle species. Upon arrival explore Colombo’s mix of colonial, religious and modern architecture. Visit landmarks such as the National Museum, Old Parliament, Independence Square and Galle Face Green. Enjoy shopping at Odel, Nolimit, Majestic City or other popular malls. Overnight in Colombo.

Enjoy breakfast and checkout. If time allows, do some final shopping before transferring to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.