Hill Country, Tea & Scenic Trains
Hill Country, Tea & Scenic Trains
Duration: 10N 11D
Journey through Sri Lanka’s breathtaking hill country, where emerald tea fields, misty peaks, and winding train tracks paint an unforgettable landscape. This itinerary combines culture, nature, and relaxation as you explore charming towns, hike through highland trails, and experience the timeless art of Ceylon tea.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Negombo / Relax at the Beach / Overnight in Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to the coastal town of Negombo. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the beach or exploring the colonial canals and bustling fish markets. Enjoy a peaceful evening by the sea before beginning your journey into the hill country.
Day 02: Drive to Kandy / Temple of the Tooth Visit / Evening Cultural Show / Overnight in Kandy
After breakfast, drive through lush countryside to reach Kandy, the island’s cultural capital. Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth, home to one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics, and witness the rituals that take place daily. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance before retiring to your hotel overlooking the misty hills.
Day 03: Peradeniya Botanical Gardens / Leisure Day in Kandy / Overnight in Kandy
Begin your day with a visit to the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, famous for its orchid house, towering palm avenues, and rare plant species. Return to Kandy for a leisurely afternoon, perhaps visiting local markets, art galleries, or cafés near Kandy Lake. The evening is free to unwind and enjoy the city’s calm, romantic ambiance.
Day 04: Scenic Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya / Explore Town / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Transfer to the Kandy railway station and board the scenic train to Nuwara Eliya, one of the world’s most picturesque rides. Watch the landscape transform as the train winds through misty mountains, waterfalls, and endless tea estates. Upon arrival, explore the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya, fondly known as “Little England,” and enjoy its cool highland air.
Day 05: Tea Plantation Tour / Ceylon Tea Tasting Experience / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Today is devoted to discovering the heritage of Ceylon tea. Visit a working tea plantation and factory to observe the art of cultivation and processing before sampling freshly brewed teas with panoramic views of rolling hills. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around Gregory Lake or relaxing in your elegant highland retreat.
Day 06: Horton Plains National Park / World’s End Hike / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Rise early for a morning excursion to Horton Plains National Park, a windswept plateau rich with wildlife and unique vegetation. Hike to the famous World’s End viewpoint, where dramatic cliffs drop over 800 meters into the valley below. Return to Nuwara Eliya for an afternoon of rest and leisure.
Day 07: Drive to Ella / Visit Ravana Falls / Overnight in Ella
Depart Nuwara Eliya for a scenic drive to Ella, a laid-back town surrounded by green hills and tea fields. Stop en route to admire the cascading Ravana Falls, one of the island’s most stunning natural sights. Upon arrival, settle into your accommodation and enjoy a relaxed evening amid cool mountain breezes.
Day 08: Little Adam’s Peak Hike / Nine Arches Bridge / Overnight in Ella
Start the morning with a short hike up Little Adam’s Peak for sweeping views of the Ella Gap and surrounding valleys. Later, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, an architectural gem hidden among the lush greenery. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy Ella’s tranquil cafés, boutique shops, or scenic viewpoints.
Day 09: Scenic Drive to Haputale / Lipton’s Seat Visit / Overnight in Haputale
Drive toward Haputale, a peaceful highland town offering some of the most captivating views in Sri Lanka. Visit Lipton’s Seat, the lookout where Sir Thomas Lipton once surveyed his tea empire, and enjoy tea amid the same breathtaking panoramas. Spend the evening relaxing at your hilltop lodge surrounded by mist and silence.
Day 10: Leisure and Optional Trekking / Overnight in Haputale
Today is free for rest or gentle adventure. Choose from optional trekking trails through nearby tea fields and villages or simply enjoy the serenity of your surroundings. As dusk falls, breathe in the cool mountain air and watch the sun disappear behind the distant hills.
Day 11: Drive Back to Colombo / Overnight in Colombo
After breakfast, begin your return journey to Colombo, descending from the misty highlands into the island’s bustling capital. Upon arrival, explore Colombo’s colonial architecture, modern shopping districts, and coastal promenade. Enjoy a comfortable overnight stay before your departure.
Day 12: Airport Transfer
Following breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight. Carry with you memories of breathtaking landscapes, scenic rail journeys, and the timeless charm of Sri Lanka’s hill country.
Inclusions
- Accommodation with daily breakfast as per the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
- English-speaking guide for all excursions
- Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
- Visits to Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, tea plantations, and Lipton’s Seat
- Horton Plains National Park excursion including World’s End hike
- Cultural experiences such as Temple of the Tooth visit and Kandyan dance performance
Exclusions
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, or phone calls
- Optional activities or trekking not mentioned in the itinerary
- Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
- Any additional services or activities not mentioned under inclusions