AAYURA JOURNEYS

Feathers & Fortresses (14 Nights / 15 Days)

A journey through Sri Lanka’s wild sanctuaries and ancient legacies, where every flutter of wings and whisper of history tells a story of harmony and wonder.

Day

01

Welcome to Sri Lanka

Arrive in Colombo, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your representative before heading to Negombo . This little
coastal town has a laid-back vibe, winding canals, and those wide, golden beaches. Take some time to settle in and just
breathe. The ocean’s right there, and after a long flight, it’s exactly what you need.

Day

02

Wetlands and Wings

Wake up early and head out for a boat safari in the Muthurajawela Wetlands. The water’s calm and the place feels
otherworldly. You’ll spot kingfishers zipping around, herons moving slowly through the shallows, mangroves all around
you. Head back to Negombo and take it easy for the rest of the day. The coast is the perfect backdrop for a slow, easy
evening.

Day

03

Into the Wild: Wilpattu National Park

Travel north toward Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest and most tranquil national park. After settling into your eco-lodge, head
out for an evening safari, where leopards, deer, and countless bird species thrive amidst ancient villus (natural lakes). As
night falls, unwind under a canopy of stars.

Day

04

A Day in the Wild

Embark on a full-day birding adventure with your naturalist guide. Wilpattu is home to a rich variety of endemic and
migratory birds, from the Sri Lanka Jungle fowl to the painted stork. Enjoy a picnic amidst nature’s serenity before
returning to your eco-lodge for a restful night.

Day

05

Ancient Cities and Sacred Waters

After breakfast, journey to the sacred city of Anuradhapura. Wander through ancient stupas, serene lakes, and centuries
old monasteries, habitats that are as rich in birdlife as they are in history. In the evening, travel onward to Sigiriya and
settle into your retreat surrounded by forest.

Day

06

Sanctuary of Song

Spend the morning exploring the Sigiriya Sanctuary, where bird calls echo through lush canopies. Keep your eyes open
for barbets, parakeets, and bee-eaters. The afternoon is yours to rest or simply watch nature unfold from your retreat.

Day

07

Citadel in the Sky & Elephants in the Wild

Rise early to climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a marvel of ancient engineering and artistry. Later, venture into Minneriya
or Kaudulla National Park, depending on the season, to witness great gatherings of elephants and flocks of storks and
pelicans. Return to Sigiriya for an evening at leisure.

Day

08

Journey to Kandy

Head right into the heart of Sri Lanka as you make your way to Kandy, the country’s cultural capital. Later, take some
time to wander through Udawattakele Sanctuary. It’s quiet, full of birds, and you may stumble across a few old meditation
caves tucked away in the forest. Settle in for the night in Kandy.

Day

09

Gardens of Grace

Wake up and head to the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. This place bursts with color, orchids everywhere, palms
stretching overhead, and sunbirds darting around. Afterwards spend the evening at leisure. Maybe take a walk by Kandy
Lake or check out nearby markets.

Day

10

To the Tea Country

Ascend into the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya, often called “Little England. Visit a lush tea plantation and factory to
learn the art of tea-making from leaf to cup while spotting highland bird species like the Yellow-eared Bulbul and Pied
Thrush.

Day

11

Highlands and Horizons

Venture into the Horton Plains National Park, a mystical plateau surrounded by cloud forest. This UNESCO World
Heritage site is a paradise for bird lovers, home to species found nowhere else on earth. Return to Nuwara Eliya for a cozy
evening amidst the cool mountain air.

Day

12

Village Charms of Tissamaharama

Descend toward the southern plains and arrive in Tissamaharama. In the evening, stroll through lush paddy fields and
quiet villages, discovering traditions such as curd making, a time-honored local craft.

Day

13

Flamingos & Wetlands of Wonder

Spend the day exploring Bundala National Park, a Ramsar wetland and UNESCO biosphere reserve teeming with life.
Spot flamingos, pelicans, and shorebirds painting the lagoons in motion. Return to your lodge, surrounded by the songs of
the wild.

Day

14

Coastal Heritage

Travel south to Galle, a charming coastal city filled with colonial heritage. Walk along the ramparts of Galle Fort, explore
charming boutiques, and enjoy watching the sunset over the Indian Ocean, an ideal conclusion to your trip. Stay overnight
along the coast.

Day

15

Until We Meet Again

After breakfast, depart for Colombo for your onward journey. Carry with you memories of birdcalls, ancient temples, and
golden light, echoes of a land where nature and history soar together.

Inclusions:

• Accommodation with daily breakfast as per the itinerary
• Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout the tour
• English-speaking naturalist guide for birding safaris and excursions
• Entrance fees for all national parks, sanctuaries, and heritage sites mentioned
• Safaris at Wilpattu, Bundala, and other designated locations

Exclussion:

• Meals not specified in the itinerary
• Personal expenses such as laundry, shopping, or phone calls
• Optional activities not mentioned under inclusions
• Tips and gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff
• Any additional services not mentioned under inclusions