Sri LankaGreen tea and peaceful elephants

After checking into your hotel, visit the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi. This is the oldest known tree planted by humans. Buddha himself is said to have planted the sacred fig tree centuries ago, which is why Buddhists from all over the world still visit it today.

Travel to Sigiriya and visit Minneriya National Park to observe herds of Asian elephants in the wild. Ranked among the world's best wildlife viewing spectacles, "The Gathering of the Elephants" takes place every year from June to October. Your safari guide knows the spots where the elephant families with their calves can be found. Afterwards, climb the rock fortress of Sigiriya, also known as "Lion Rock." Sigiriya was chosen as the capital during the reign of King Kashyapa in the 6th century AD – the fortress has an exciting history.

Take a stroll through the lovingly designed royal gardens and climb to the summit, where only ruins of the royal palace remain today. A visit to the fresco gallery with its mirrored wall and ancient manuscripts, which bear a strong resemblance to the modern Sinhalese language, is also not to be missed. The nearby town of Polonnaruwa is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can learn more about the kingdoms and history of Sri Lanka.

Now your journey takes you to Kandy, with a stop at the Dambulla Cave Temple. Dambulla is one of the best-preserved monastery cave complexes in Sri Lanka and is famous for its rock paintings. Around 150 Buddhist statues and more than 2,000 square kilometers of painted walls and ceilings adorn the interior of the complex. The five separate caves also house several Hindu deities.

Then it's on to your hotel. After checking in, visit the famous Temple of the Tooth in Kandy and watch a traditional dance performance there. Take your time exploring the city of Kandy, relax by the pool, or go for a run around Kandy Lake. Treat yourself to a cup of fresh Ceylon tea in between. The Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, considered one of the most beautiful gardens in Asia, also welcome you.

Take a train ride through the picturesque landscape from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya and enjoy spectacular views of tea plantations, cloud forests, and waterfalls as you travel through the central highlands. Upon arrival, feel free to stroll leisurely around the idyllic lake and enjoy the view of vast tea fields. A tea experience is highly recommended at this location!

Take a leisurely stroll and enjoy the varied landscapes, exotic flora, rich bird life, and gentle rhythm of life along the hiking trails around the tea plantation. The local tea farmer in Tientsin will show you the ancient tea-making process firsthand. Watch the tea pickers as they skillfully pluck two leaves and a bud with their deft hands. Then it's off to the factory, where the transformation into "manufactured" black tea takes place. The machines used are very British in design, some of which are more than 100 years old. The tour ends with a tasting of different grades of this magnificent tea.

Now it's time for an excursion into the jungle of Yala! Discover Sri Lanka from a bird's eye view from a glider. The landscape along this route is extremely varied and full of visual highlights. Your destination is Yala National Park, which you will explore afterwards. Embark on two exciting safaris in search of leopards, Asian elephants, sloth bears, marsh crocodiles, and other wildlife.

During the dry season from June to September, marsh crocodiles gather in the dwindling water holes. With nearly 300 recorded bird species, Yala is also an excellent destination for bird watching; blue peacocks, Sri Lankan crested partridges, monochrome eagles, painted storks, Malabar hornbills, blue-and-white owls, and green- and blue-tailed bee-eaters are among the feathered friends that can be seen regularly.

Continue your journey to the beautiful coast near Tangalle for a fantastic beach vacation on the Indian Ocean. After many exciting days, it's now time to relax. Golden beaches invite you to sunbathe or enjoy numerous water sports activities. Snorkeling trips, whale watching, dolphin watching, and an optional cooking class are all available here. Exciting safari adventures in nearby national parks also promise unforgettable experiences. Enjoy the amenities, especially the wellness program at your Amanwella resort.

On your way to your next beautiful home, stop off at the beach town of Mirissa. Mirissa is considered the best place in the world for blue whale watching. While whale watching, keep an eye out for dolphins or larger fish. The next stop on your journey is the town of Galle, which is famous for its Dutch-built Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take a walk along the city walls with panoramic views. Explore the city of Galle or take a temple tour. From here, you will once again have the opportunity to go on exciting excursions into nature or to plantations. The Amangella also offers a wonderful wellness program.