North & Northwest Explorer
North & Northwest Explorer
Duration: 11N 12D
Explore Sri Lanka’s less-visited northern and northwestern regions on this twelve-day journey, combining pristine beaches, cultural heritage, wildlife, and coastal adventure. This itinerary offers immersive experiences in historical cities, national parks, and tranquil lagoons, providing a comprehensive view of Sri Lanka’s diverse landscapes and traditions. Each day is carefully designed to balance exploration, relaxation, and cultural engagement.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Negombo / Overnight in Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and meet your private driver for a short transfer to Negombo, approximately 20–30 minutes. Spend the afternoon relaxing on the beaches or exploring the Negombo Lagoon and its fishing villages. Evening at leisure allows for dining by the water and acclimatization to Sri Lanka’s tropical climate. Overnight stay is arranged in Negombo at a comfortable beachfront or lagoon-side hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Kalpitiya / Dolphin Watching & Lagoon Sunset / Overnight in Kalpitiya
After breakfast, drive approximately four to five hours to Kalpitiya on the northwestern coast. In the late afternoon, embark on a dolphin-watching excursion in the lagoon, observing pods of playful dolphins in their natural habitat. Conclude the day with a sunset cruise along the lagoon, capturing serene views and coastal wildlife. Overnight stay is arranged in Kalpitiya, near the beach or lagoon.
Day 03: Water Sports in Kalpitiya (Kite Surfing, Kayaking) / Overnight in Kalpitiya
Spend a full day enjoying Kalpitiya’s water sports, with options including kite surfing, kayaking, and paddleboarding in the calm lagoon waters. Learn basic techniques with guidance from instructors or explore the area independently for a more adventurous experience. Evening at leisure allows relaxation on the beach or enjoying local seafood. Overnight stay remains in Kalpitiya.
Day 04: Drive to Wilpattu National Park / Evening Safari / Overnight near Wilpattu
After breakfast, drive approximately three to four hours to Wilpattu National Park, famous for its leopard population and diverse wildlife. Embark on an evening jeep safari to explore forested areas, tanks, and grasslands while spotting elephants, deer, and endemic birds. Evening at leisure allows rest and preparation for a full-day safari the next day. Overnight stay is arranged near Wilpattu for convenience.
Day 05: Full-Day Safari in Wilpattu / Overnight near Wilpattu
Spend the day on a guided full-day safari in Wilpattu National Park, exploring its varied habitats and maximizing wildlife sightings. Stop for a picnic lunch in designated areas while enjoying the park’s natural beauty. Learn from expert guides about conservation efforts, animal behavior, and the ecological significance of the park. Overnight stay remains near Wilpattu.
Day 06: Drive to Jaffna / Explore Jaffna Fort & City / Overnight in Jaffna
After breakfast, drive approximately four to five hours to Jaffna, the cultural hub of Sri Lanka’s north. Explore Jaffna Fort, built during the Portuguese and Dutch periods, and visit key city landmarks including local markets, colonial architecture, and Hindu temples. Evening at leisure allows time to experience local cuisine and the city’s unique cultural atmosphere. Overnight stay is arranged in Jaffna.
Day 07: Nallur Temple & Local Cultural Immersion / Overnight in Jaffna
Start the day with a visit to Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, a vibrant Hindu temple known for its festivals and intricate carvings. Engage in a cultural immersion experience, visiting local villages, schools, or artisanal workshops to learn about traditional practices and daily life. Evening at leisure allows exploration of Jaffna town or rest at your hotel. Overnight stay remains in Jaffna.
Day 08: Excursion to Nagadeepa & Casuarina Beach / Overnight in Jaffna
Take a morning excursion by boat to Nagadeepa Island, a sacred site featuring a revered Buddhist temple and peaceful surroundings. In the afternoon, relax at Casuarina Beach, known for its shallow waters, white sands, and scenic beauty. Return to Jaffna in the evening for leisure and optional local dining. Overnight stay remains in Jaffna.
Day 09: Drive to Trincomalee / Relax at Nilaveli Beach / Overnight in Trincomalee
After breakfast, drive approximately three to four hours to Trincomalee on the northeast coast. Spend the afternoon unwinding at Nilaveli Beach, swimming, sunbathing, or taking short walks along the coastline. Evening at leisure allows dining with ocean views or enjoying the tranquility of the area. Overnight stay is arranged in Trincomalee near the beach.
Day 10: Koneshwaram Temple / Snorkeling at Pigeon Island / Overnight in Trincomalee
Visit the historic Koneshwaram Temple perched on Swami Rock, learning about its religious significance, architecture, and coastal legends. Later, take a boat trip to Pigeon Island National Park for snorkeling among coral reefs and tropical fish. Evening at leisure allows relaxation on the beach or enjoying local seafood. Overnight stay remains in Trincomalee.
Day 11: Return to Colombo / Leisure Day / Overnight in Colombo
Depart Trincomalee after breakfast for a drive of approximately six to seven hours back to Colombo. Upon arrival, spend the afternoon at leisure exploring Colombo’s shops, cafés, or waterfront areas. Evening at leisure allows for final souvenir shopping or dining in the city. Overnight stay is arranged in Colombo.
Day 12: Airport Transfer
After breakfast, check out from your hotel and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight. Reflect on a journey that combined northern culture, coastal adventures, and wildlife exploration. The tour concludes with lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s north and northwest regions.
Inclusions
- Accommodation for 11 nights with daily breakfast as specified in the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned transport with a driver throughout Sri Lanka
- Guided visits and entrance fees to all included sites: Wilpattu National Park safaris, Jaffna Fort, Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, Nagadeepa Island temple, Koneshwaram Temple, Pigeon Island snorkeling
- Dolphin-watching excursion and sunset cruise in Kalpitiya
- Water sports in Kalpitiya (kite surfing, kayaking, paddleboarding)
- Cultural immersion activities in Jaffna (village, school, or artisan visits)
- All airport transfers in Sri Lanka
Exclusions
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as tips, laundry, phone calls, or shopping
- Optional activities not explicitly included (e.g., extra water sports, diving excursions beyond Pigeon Island)
- Travel insurance, visa fees, and international flights
- Any services or experiences not mentioned under inclusions