Arrival and welcome at the airport by a representative of Ceylon Best Holidays. Transfer to Kandy. On the way, visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage and a spice garden.
Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage: Elephants hold a high status in Sri Lankan life. Therefore, a state-run elephant orphanage was founded in 1975. Baby elephants that have lost their parents or were injured by poaching are brought here. The animals receive basic care and training. Some are later transferred to zoos, while others are used for work in Sri Lanka.
The main goal of the orphanage is the breeding of new generations – today, over 90 elephants live there. The best time to visit is during feeding and bathing. There is an opportunity to observe the animals up close and, with a bit of luck, see baby elephants being bottle-fed.
Spice Garden: You will see how cinnamon, cardamom, pepper, and other spices grow. Spices are widely used in cooking, medicine, and cosmetics. Tourists receive an introduction to their use and can purchase spices.
Accommodation at the hotel. After lunch – city tour of Kandy, visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha.
Kandy: The last capital of the Sinhalese kings, which held its own against colonization by the Portuguese and Dutch. It only fell to the British in 1815. Kandy is picturesquely situated among hills, with the Mahaweli River and an artificial lake in the city center.
Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha: The Sacred Tooth arrived in Lanka in 311 AD, hidden in the hair of Princess Hemamala. The city where the relic was kept was always considered the capital.
The temple was built in 1590 by King Vimaladharmasuriya I and is decorated with: – ornate wood carvings – painted ceilings – doors made of silver and ivory
During ceremonies, the doors are opened so that the sacred relic is visible from a distance.
The famous Esala Perahera procession, one of the most impressive in Asia, attracts millions of visitors every August.
17:00 – Cultural dance show with traditional Kandyan dances.
After breakfast – visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya and the Gem Museum.
Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya: One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Asia. It impresses with: – over 750 species of indoor plants – approx. 100 orchid species – 175 palm species – an avenue of memorial trees
There is a fascinating contrast of colorful flowers and decorative plants.
Gem Museum: Sri Lanka has been known for centuries as Rathnadweepa – “Island of Gems.” Famous gemstones like the 400-carat Blue Belle (British Crown) and the Star of India (536 carats) originate from here. Mined stones include: – Sapphires – Rubies – Cat’s eyes – Alexandrites – Aquamarines – Spinel – Topaz – Garnet – Amethyst and many others
Continue to Nuwara Eliya with visits to: – Ambuluwawa Tower – Tea plantation and tea factory – Ramboda Waterfall – Walk through Nuwara Eliya
Ambuluwawa Tower: Built in 2009, 48m high, 360° panoramic view of valleys, cities, and forests. The area is a biosphere reserve with 126 animal species (29 endemic) and about 200 plant species. The site houses temples of all four major religions of Sri Lanka as well as a Bodhi tree.
Tea Plantation: The highlands are the heart of the famous Ceylon tea. Perfect climate ensures a unique aroma and smooth taste. Recommendation: Try fresh tea prepared on-site.
Ramboda Waterfall: 109 meters high, the 11th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka. It originates from the Panna Oya, a tributary of the Kothmale Oya.
Nuwara Eliya: Known as the “City of Light,” 1884 m above sea level, at the foot of Pidurutalagala Mountain. Mild climate (+15…+20 °C), green hills, and British charm make it a popular highland resort.
After breakfast – drive to Colombo via Kitulgala. On the way, stops at St. Clair’s and Devon waterfalls.
Kitulgala: The Kelani River, Sri Lanka’s widest river, flows through the town. The famous film “The Bridge on the River Kwai” was filmed here. Traces of an ancient civilization were discovered in one of the caves.
St. Clair’s Waterfall: One of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka: – 80 m high – 60 m wide – two cascades: “Great” and “Little St. Clair’s”. Its charm lies in its perfect visibility and easy accessibility.
Devon Waterfall: Also known as the “Veil of Sri Lanka.” It consists of three cascades and plunges about 100 m into the depths. It was named after a British coffee planter.
The view is particularly impressive along the Talawakelle – Nawalapitiya road.
⚠️ Due to the construction of the Kothmale hydroelectric power plant, the waterfall is considered an endangered natural monument.
Continue to Colombo.
⚠️ If a beach holiday in the south, southwest, or northwest follows, an additional transfer surcharge applies.
Price details can be found at the link provided in the original.
– Accommodation in a double room (half board) – Air-conditioned transfers – Russian-speaking tour guide – Entrance tickets according to the program – Taxes
– Lunch – Early check-in / late check-out – Personal expenses – Permits for photo and video recording – Tips
03.07.2026 
