Arrive in Sri Lanka and transfer to Negombo, a coastal town. With its multiethnic community and bustling Negombo fish market, this is an excellent introduction to Sri Lanka. In Negombo, the major communities coexist, and there are numerous Cathedrals, Buddhist temples, Hindu temples (known as Kovils), and Mosques nearby. Enjoy your evening at leisure.
Accommodation in Negombo
Set out for Puttalam after breakfast. This coastal town is the main trade hub of the Puttalam district, which produces a large portion of the island’s coconut and sea salt. Make a slight detour en route to visit the Anavilundawa bird sanctuary, a haven for many species of wetland birds. You will have the opportunity to visit the Kalpitiya peninsula in the evening, which is known for its scenic beaches, lagoon, and kitesurfing hotspots. The small town on the peninsula’s tip is home to an ancient Dutch church and a fishing harbor.
Accommodation in Puttalam
After a delicious breakfast of local delicacies, take the coastal route through Wilpattu’s jungles to Mannar, another coastal town rarely visited by tourists. Mannar is well-known for its seafood, particularly crabs, which are in high demand in Colombo’s seafood restaurants. In addition to seafood, it is a charming town with scenic beaches and wetlands that are home to a variety of birds.
Accommodation in Mannar
Spend the day exploring Mannar and its environs with a knowledgeable local guide who will assist you in discovering many hidden gems and sharing many interesting stories about the area and its history. You will also have the opportunity to visit a local family and eat a delicious home cooked seafood meal.
Accommodation in MannarLeave Mannar and head north to Jaffna. This region is home to a significant portion of Sri Lanka’s Tamil culture. There are many Hindu temples and cultural sites to visit, as well as many interesting sights, sounds, and scenery that stand in stark contrast to the island’s southern region. You will be accompanied by a local guide from the region throughout your stay in Jaffna to help you make the most of your visit. He will assist you in navigating the language barrier, understanding cultural nuances, and enhancing your experience in Jaffna. After relaxing in the hotel, set out in the evening to explore Jaffna. This bustling hub is an excellent place to get a feel for Jaffna and interact with friendly locals. There are numerous local restaurants that serve authentic local cuisine that is a culinary delight.
Accommodation in Jaffna
After breakfast, proceed to the Kurikadduwan Jetty to board the ferry to Delft Island. This island, about 30 kilometers off the mainland, is home to a small community of people who live on the island permanently and travel to the mainland for work and other necessities. The island has been inhabited for many centuries, and there are visible remnants of the Dutch era as well. Your local guide will assist you in exploring the fascinating places on the island. Later in the day, you’ll be able to enjoy a simple lunch at a local home before catching the final ferry back to the mainland in the afternoon. Return to your Jaffna hotel.
Accommodation in JaffnaAfter breakfast, set out to see the highlights of the Jaffna peninsula. The scenic beauty of this region will astound you. One of the most noticeable differences is the prevalence of Palmyra trees in this area, as opposed to coconut trees, which are abundant in the south. The people of Jaffna have many uses for the tree, and you will see various parts of the tree used for everything from fencing material to alcoholic beverages. Apart from the Palmyra trees, Jaffna has many beautiful temples, a well-preserved fort, and a library. As you travel away from the town center, you will notice farmers hard at work on the fertile fields.
Spend the evening watching the sunset from Point Pedro, Sri Lanka’s northernmost point.
Accommodation in Jaffna
Say goodbye to Jaffna and depart for Trincomalee. Trinco is one of the world’s best natural harbors, and it has played a significant role in both Sri Lankan history and World War II. Trinco is well-known for its numerous beaches, the most popular of which are Nilaveli and Marble Beach.
Accommodation in TrincomaleeTake a boat ride this morning to Pigeon Island National Park, which is just off the coast of Nilaveli, and spend the morning snorkelling and exploring the amazing underwater landscape and marine life. Return to your hotel for some rest and relaxation. Explore Trincomalee and its surroundings in the evening. Discover Trinco’s many cultural sites, such as the Dutch fort, Hindu temples, natural clear spring wells with varying temperatures of bubbling water, and forgotten Buddhist temples.
Accommodation in Trincomalee
Spend the day relaxing on the beach or exploring the Kokilai sanctuary, which is home to many different types of wetland birds.
Accommodation in TrincomaleeTransfer south to Batticaloa, Passikudah, after breakfast. This coastal town is known for its crystal-clear beaches that are protected by reefs, making swimming safe. There are numerous opportunities for sunbathing and relaxing.
Accommodation in PassikudahSpend the day relaxing by the pool or swimming in the sea. There are a variety of optional activities available, including snorkeling, watersports, and local experiences.
Accommodation in PassikudahSpend your day relaxing by the pool or swimming in the ocean. Optional activities include snorkeling, water sports, and local experiences.
Accommodation in Passikudah