Misty Highlands & Tea Trails Adventure
Misty Highlands & Tea Trails Adventure
Duration: 9N 10D
Explore Sri Lanka’s lush central highlands on this ten-day journey through misty mountains, tea estates, waterfalls, and cultural hubs. The itinerary blends scenic landscapes, adventurous hikes, and immersive local experiences to offer a comprehensive view of the hill country. Every day is curated to provide cultural insight, natural beauty, and memorable experiences.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Kandy / Overnight in Kandy
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and meet your private driver for a scenic drive to Kandy, approximately three to four hours depending on traffic. Enjoy the passing landscapes of paddy fields, small villages, and rolling hills as you acclimate to Sri Lanka. Evening at leisure allows you to settle into your hotel and enjoy the serene surroundings of the hill country. Overnight stay is arranged in Kandy, offering comfort and accessibility to the city’s cultural sites.
Day 02: Temple of the Tooth / Cultural Show / Overnight in Kandy
Start the day with a guided visit to the Temple of the Tooth, home to the sacred relic of the Buddha. Observe daily rituals and learn about the temple’s history, spiritual significance, and architectural features. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance and drumming performance, showcasing the artistry and rhythm of local culture. Overnight stay remains in Kandy, giving time to rest before traveling into the highlands.
Day 03: Scenic Train Journey to Ella / Visit Ravana Falls / Overnight in Ella
Board the train from Kandy to Ella, considered one of the most scenic railway journeys in the world, passing tea plantations, mist-covered hills, and cascading waterfalls. Upon arrival in Ella, visit Ravana Falls, a striking multi-tiered waterfall with opportunities for photography and a short nature walk. Evening at leisure allows exploration of the town or nearby viewpoints. Overnight stay is arranged in Ella, providing convenient access to hikes and local attractions.
Day 04: Little Adam’s Peak Hike / Nine Arches Bridge / Overnight in Ella
Begin the morning with a moderate hike up Little Adam’s Peak, offering panoramic views of Ella’s valleys, tea estates, and surrounding mountains. After the hike, visit the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era railway engineering surrounded by lush greenery. Spend the afternoon relaxing or wandering through local markets and cafés. Overnight stay remains in Ella, allowing for rest before traveling to the highlands.
Day 05: Horton Plains National Park / World’s End Hike / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Depart early to Horton Plains National Park for a guided hike to World’s End, a sheer cliff with breathtaking views over the central highlands. Explore the park’s misty grasslands, cloud forests, and waterfalls while spotting endemic birds and wildlife along the trail. After the hike, transfer to Nuwara Eliya, approximately two hours away, for overnight stay in the hill country town known as “Little England.”
Day 06: Tea Plantation Tour and Tasting / Explore Nuwara Eliya Town / Overnight in Nuwara Eliya
Spend the morning touring a local tea plantation and factory, learning about tea cultivation, harvesting, and processing. Enjoy a tasting session of freshly brewed highland tea while walking through lush estates. In the afternoon, explore Nuwara Eliya town, including Gregory Lake, colonial architecture, and local markets. Overnight stay remains in Nuwara Eliya, allowing for relaxation and leisure.
Day 07: Lipton’s Seat Viewpoint / Leisure in Haputale / Overnight in Haputale
Drive to Haputale and visit Lipton’s Seat, a famous viewpoint offering panoramic vistas of rolling tea estates and surrounding mountains. Learn about Sir Thomas Lipton’s contribution to Sri Lanka’s tea industry and enjoy photography opportunities at the summit. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring Haputale town, local cafés, or scenic trails. Overnight stay is arranged in Haputale, providing highland tranquility and comfort.
Day 08: Village Cultural Immersion / Optional Cycling or Nature Walks / Overnight in Haputale
Engage with local communities through a cultural immersion experience, visiting small villages, interacting with residents, and observing traditional crafts and farming practices. Optional activities include guided cycling tours through tea estates or nature walks along scenic trails for active exploration. The day offers a balance of cultural learning, outdoor adventure, and relaxation. Overnight stay remains in Haputale, giving time to rest before the return journey.
Day 09: Drive Back to Kandy / Overnight in Kandy
Depart Haputale for the drive back to Kandy, approximately four to five hours through misty highland landscapes, rivers, and tea-covered hills. Upon arrival, enjoy leisure time for shopping, sightseeing, or relaxing at your hotel. Evening at leisure allows reflection on the scenic and cultural experiences of the highlands. Overnight stay is arranged in Kandy for convenience before departure.
Day 10: Transfer to Colombo / Airport Transfer
After breakfast, drive from Kandy to Colombo, approximately three to four hours depending on traffic. Along the route, enjoy the changing landscapes and last glimpses of Sri Lanka’s countryside. Upon arrival in Colombo, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey, concluding your highland adventure with lasting memories of scenic beauty and cultural immersion.
Inclusions
• Accommodation with daily breakfast as per the itinerary
• Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
• English-speaking guide for cultural and heritage sites
• Scenic train journey from Kandy to Ella
• Visits and entrance fees to Temple of the Tooth, Horton Plains National Park (World’s End hike), tea plantations, and Lipton’s Seat
• Little Adam’s Peak hike and Nine Arches Bridge visit
• Village cultural immersion in Haputale
Exclusions
• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as shopping, laundry, or phone calls
• Optional activities not mentioned under inclusions, such as cycling or nature walks
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
• Any additional services or activities not mentioned under inclusions