Things to do in Central Province, Sri Lanka

Combine a transfer from Ella to Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahangama/Habaraduwa/Koggala/Unawatuna/Galle areas with a thrilling day trip to Yala National Park. Experience the immense biodiversity of this park on this Sri Lankan animal safari. Be picked up from your accommodation in Ella, Relax and take in the local scenery on the drive to Yala National Park. Board an open-topped safari jeep to get the best views and photo angles. See the animals during the day when they are the most active. Watch for leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalos, and a large variety of bird species. Get some great shots of these magnificent creatures. Hear about wildlife and get photography tips from your local guide. Let your guide show you the spots where the animals are likely to congregate. Then, head back to your air-conditioned car for the ride to your accommodation in Tangalle/Hiriketiya/Matara/Mirissa/Weligama/Ahangama/Habaraduwa/Koggala/Unawatuna/Galle and Suburbs.

Early Morning Departure from Colombo The journey begins early with pick-ups from Colombo between 5:30 AM and 6:30 AM. Once the group is assembled, the drive proceeds via the Mirigama highway toward Kurunegala. This early departure allows travelers to relax and enjoy the scenic countryside—lush greenery, quiet farmlands, and misty landscapes. Breakfast Stop at Kurunegala Around 8:30 AM, there’s a breakfast stop at Café Amakie in Kurunegala (self-paid), which offers a selection of local and international dishes. It’s a refreshing break before continuing to Dambulla. Visit to Dambulla Cave Temple Punctuality is important, as the Dambulla Cave Temple temporarily closes from 10:30 AM to 10:45 AM for worship. By 10:00 AM, the group arrives at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. The temple is famous for its well-preserved Buddhist murals, golden statues, and ancient rock-cut shrines. A short but moderately steep climb leads to the cave complex, offering stunning panoramic views from the top. Entering before the closure ensures an uninterrupted visit and time to absorb the historical and spiritual atmosphere. Arrival at Sigiriya and Lion Rock Climb After exploring Dambulla, the tour continues with a 20-minute drive to Sigiriya, where the iconic Lion Rock awaits. At around 11:30 AM, travelers begin the ascent of approximately 1,200 steps. Along the way, highlights include the Sigiriya frescoes, the Mirror Wall, and the enormous Lion’s Paws carved into the rock. Reaching the summit rewards climbers with breathtaking views and a sense of accomplishment. The full visit—including the climb and descent—takes about 2 to 3 hours, so it’s important to wear comfortable shoes, a hat or cap, and carry water. Lunch and Optional Activities After the descent, guests can either relax over lunch at a selected restaurant or choose to participate in a unique village tour. This immersive cultural experience starts with a traditional bullock cart ride through scenic paddy fields, followed by a canoe journey across a serene lake. Upon arriving at a village home, a freshly prepared meal with authentic Sri Lankan flavors is served. A tuk-tuk ride concludes the tour, offering a chance to interact with locals and witness everyday rural life. Safari Option or Leisure Activities For those opting for wildlife instead of the village tour, an optional jeep safari awaits at Eco Park, Kaudulla, or Minneriya National Park, depending on seasonal animal movement. The 2.5-hour safari offers a chance to spot elephants, deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Meanwhile, non-safari guests may enjoy leisure time visiting batik and silk shops or indulging in an Ayurvedic massage. Return to Colombo By 5:45 PM to 6:00 PM, the group regathers for the return trip to Colombo. The relaxing evening drive brings the day to a close, with drop-offs between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM—ending a memorable journey through history, nature, and culture.

Explore the most iconic sites of Kandy as you get to know your guide and their hometown. Contact the guide before the tour begins to customize the tour and choose the sites you would most like to see. Visit the Sacred Temple of the Tooth, situated in the Royal Palace Complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy. Drive to the Queen's Bathing Pavilion and the National Museum of Kandy. Head to the Buddhist Temple which sits at the top of a hill with a breathtaking view. Stop here to take photos and admire the views of the city and surrounding areas. On the way to a tea plantation, pass along the banks of the river Mahawali. Hopefully, you will get to see monkeys during the tour and possibly spot a jaguar in the distance along the river. Take a break to grab some food at a local restaurant with the guide’s recommendation. Discuss the rest of your plans for the day while asking for tips on places to visit during your stay.

* Pickup at 7.45am In Kandy Pickup ➡️ Matale Hindu Temple ➡️ Wood Carving Center ➡️ Sigiriya Lion Rock or Pidurangala Rock ➡️Cave Temple ➡️ Spice & Herbs Garden ➡️ Drop-off (Your hotel in kandy) • Sigiriya Village Safari (Optional) • Gems Museum (Optional) Get picked up directly from your accommodation and travel by tuk-tuk to the city of Sigiriya, an ancient rock fortress. Marvel at the 200-meter-tall Sigiriya Rock, which, according to an ancient Sri Lankan chronicle, was selected by King Kasyapa as the site of his new capital. Then, see some of the traditional crafts of the region such as wood carving and batik textiles, a dyeing technique developed in ancient times. Take a piece of traditional craft home with you as a souvenir. Afterward, journey to Dambulla and explore the largest and most well-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Discover the magnificent Buddha images and vividly colored rock paintings, painted between the 2nd century BC and the 18th-century Kandyan era before returning to Kandy.

Board your train in Kandy and begin your magical journey through rugged mountains, lush greenery, and pristine lakes. Find your seats in the first-class section of the train and settle in. As you ride to Ella, the train will first pass through a narrow ridge and misty green forests before reaching Highlands several rushing waterfalls. Continue through Nanuoya and small villages surrounding the beautiful countryside of Sri Lanka. Whilst you pass the luscious fields of tea to cross into Horton Plains, keeping an eye out for wildlife and glamorous settings. As enter your final stretch, enjoy the views of green rolling hills before pulling into Ella , a bustling town nestled in the Highlands of Sri Lanka. We advise travellers to have some flexibility when booking this activity due to High Demand some days might not be available. Although we cater for your preferences its not always possible and we will present you with alternative options when possible. Please keep couple of days open in case your preference is not available.

Hi Dear Sir/ Ma'am. # You need physical tickets to enter the actual train station. # Those tickets will be distributed by us # You can use the QR code of your reservation only between you and us # This QR code cannot be used to print your train ticket. # # please enter your contact number(we are contact you on whatsapp) If you whatsapp number don't work its not our problem and please contact us on whatsapp # please don't share our details other local peoples. (Special don't give our contact number) # sametime we can arrange your active we let you know and that time we dothe your refund thru the get your guide app only. # please contact us only whatsapp # Don't share your details. # If your requested train/class is fully booked, we will issue tickets on the next available train within 3 hours or the nearest class available ON THE SAME DAY. Please note that the price difference will be requested or refunded. #We will refund if we won't be able to get exactly what you selected Second and third-class carriages are not air-conditioned, so all the windows and doors are wide open for the entire journey. As you’d imagine, there is a difference in standard as you go down in ticket class. Seats are slightly less comfortable and less spacious as you move to third class. Generally, there will be less room to move around, and with standing tickets available here, the aisles may be crowded. Second and third-class travel will be split into two carriages – reserved and unreserved

Welcome to our thrilling wildlife tour at Minneriya National Park, where you'll embark on an unforgettable adventure into the heart of Sri Lanka's untamed wilderness. Get ready to witness the mesmerizing spectacle of the annual Minneriya Elephant Gathering, a breathtaking natural phenomenon that brings together hundreds of majestic elephants in one location. As you delve into the park's diverse ecosystem, you'll encounter a plethora of other fascinating wildlife, from elusive leopards and sloth bears to colorful birds and endemic reptiles. Our expert guides will lead you on a safari through the park's verdant landscapes, ensuring you have a safe and enriching experience while witnessing some of the most extraordinary wildlife encounters of your life. Summary of Main Activity: The main activity of this wildlife tour is the safari through Minneriya National Park, primarily focused on observing the awe-inspiring Minneriya Elephant Gathering, where hundreds of elephants gather near the Minneriya Tank during the dry season. This phenomenon provides a unique opportunity to witness these gentle giants up close and study their natural behavior. Tour Highlights: Minneriya Elephant Gathering: Experience the unparalleled wonder of observing a massive congregation of elephants, as they interact, bathe, and forage, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. Diverse Wildlife: Encounter an array of fascinating creatures, including leopards, sloth bears, sambar deer, spotted deer, and a wide variety of bird species such as painted storks, pelicans, eagles, and kingfishers. Lush Landscapes: Immerse yourself in the scenic beauty of Minneriya National Park, with its lush greenery, picturesque landscapes, and serene water bodies. Expert Guides: Our knowledgeable and experienced guides will provide insights into the wildlife and ecosystem, ensuring you gain a deeper appreciation for the animals and their habitats. Responsible Tourism: We prioritize ethical and sustainable practices, ensuring that our tours have minimal impact on the environment and wildlife. Photography Opportunities: Capture stunning moments of wildlife in their natural habitat, creating lasting memories of your extraordinary adventure. Join us on this extraordinary wildlife tour at Minneriya National Park, and let the magic of nature's wonders unfold before your eyes. Discover the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka's wilderness and create memories that will stay with you forever.

Board your train in Kandy or Ella and begin your magical journey through rugged mountains, lush greenery, and pristine lakes. Find your seats in the second-class section of the train and settle in. Enjoy the wind blowing through your hair as all the windows are open for the elements in this section of the train! As you ride to Kandy/Ella, the train will first pass through a narrow ridge and misty green forests before reaching Ella Rock and several rushing waterfalls. Continue through Haputale to reach the tea villages and plantations in Nanu-Oya. Continue through luscious fields of tea to cross into Horton Plains, keeping an eye out for deer and rhododendrons. As enter your final stretch, enjoy the views of green rolling hills before pulling into Kandy/Ella (Based on direction of your journey), a bustling city.

Start at 8:45 AM in Kandy ➾ (18km) Kadugannawa View Point ➾ (22km) Pinnawala ➾ (17km) Ceylon Tea Factory ➾ (8km) Royal Botanical Garden ➾ (2km) Wood Carving Family House ➾ (4km) Big Buddha Statue ➾(1km) Asgiriya Stupa ➾ (2km) Ceylon Gems Museum ➾ (100m) Kandy City View Point ➾ (600m) Kandyan Culture Dancing ➾ (1km) Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic ➾ (1km) Drop-off Your Hotel Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage , is a captive breeding and conservation institute for wild Asian elephants located at Pinnawala village, 13 km (8.1 mi) northeast of Kegalle town in Sabaragamuwa Province of Sri Lanka. Pinnawala has the largest herd of captive elephants in the world. In 2023, there were 71 elephants, including 30 males and 41 females from 3 generations, living in Pinnawala. The orphanage was founded to care and protect the many orphaned unweaned wild elephants found wandering in and near the forests of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1975 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Conservation (DWC). On 31 August 2021, a 25 year old elephant named Surangi gave birth to twin male baby elephants at the orphanage. It also marked the first instance of the birth of twin elephants in Sri Lanka after a gap of 80 years since 1941.

Combine a transfer from Ella to Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle area with a thrilling day trip to Yala National Park. Experience the immense biodiversity of this park on this Sri Lankan animal safari. Be picked up from your accommodation in Ella, Haputale, or Bandarawela. Relax and take in the local scenery on the drive to Yala National Park. Board an open-topped safari jeep to get the best views and photo angles. See the animals during the day when they are the most active. Watch for leopards, sloth bears, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys, water buffalos, and a large variety of bird species. Get some great shots of these magnificent creatures. Hear about wildlife and get photography tips from your local guide. Let your guide show you the spots where the animals are likely to congregate. Then, head back to your air-conditioned car for the ride to your accommodation in Tangalle, Hiriketiya, Matara, Mirissa, Weligama, Unawatuna, Galle or Hikkaduwa.