NORTHERN ODYSSEY

Journey off the beaten track through Jaffna's vibrant Tamil culture, ancient sacred cities, untouched eastern coastlines, and pristine dual-park wildlife safaris in 15 unforgettable days.

Cultural Heritage & Untouched Coastlines

Discover Sri Lanka's North & East Expedition

Beyond the postcard - this package is specifically crafted for returning visitors, surfers, and long-stay travelers who want to explore the northern tip and eastern coastline of Sri Lanka. Uncover Jaffna's unique Tamil heritage, cycle through the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura, unwind on the golden shores of Trincomalee and Passikudah, soak up the vibrant surf scene in Arugam Bay, and track wild leopards in both Wilpattu and Yala National Parks.

Route Summary: Negombo – Anuradhapura – Wilpattu – Jaffna – Trincomalee – Passikudah – Arugam Bay – Yala – Colombo

14 Nights / 15 Days

Day 1 : Arrival & Coastal Relaxation in Negombo
  • Morning / Afternoon: Touch down at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) where your private chauffeur guide greets you for a warm welcome.

  • Transfer: Short drive to Negombo to check in at your beachfront hotel.

  • Evening: Relax by the ocean or take a sunset walk along the coast.

  • Overnight Stay: Negombo

Day 2 : Negombo to Habarana via Cultural Highlights
  • Morning: Scenic transfer heading north towards Sri Lanka's ancient first capital, Anuradhapura.

  • Afternoon: Explore the sacred stupas, ancient monasteries, and the historic Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi tree.

  • Overnight Stay: Anuradhapura

Day 3 : Wilpattu National Park Safari & Journey to Jaffna
  • Morning: Private morning safari game drive in Wilpattu National Park, famous for its natural lakes (willus) and elusive leopards.

  • Afternoon: Continue the drive north across the Elephant Pass towards the northern peninsula of Jaffna.

  • Overnight Stay: Jaffna

Day 4 : Jaffna Cultural Heritage & Island Excursion
  • Morning: Visit the majestic Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil and historic Jaffna Fort.

  • Afternoon: Take a boat ride to Nagadeepa Island (Nainativu) to explore its sacred Buddhist temple and Hindu Kovil.

  • Evening: Savor authentic Jaffna Tamil cuisine and explore local markets.

  • Overnight Stay: Jaffna

Day 5 : Jaffna to Trincomalee Eastern Coast
  • Morning: Depart Jaffna and drive down the pristine eastern highway towards Trincomalee.

  • Afternoon: Check in to your beachfront resort and visit Koneswaram Temple perched atop Swami Rock cliff.

  • Overnight Stay: Trincomalee

Day 6 : Trincomalee Beach & Pigeon Island Snorkeling
  • Morning: Optional boat excursion to Pigeon Island National Park for snorkeling with sea turtles and reef fish.

  • Afternoon: Relax on the calm sands of Nilaveli Beach.

  • Overnight Stay: Trincomalee

Day 7 : Trincomalee to Passikudah Bay
  • Morning: Drive south along the eastern coastline to the shallow, serene bay of Passikudah.

  • Afternoon: Spend a relaxing day swimming in the crystal-clear, calm coastal waters.

  • Overnight Stay: Passikudah

Day 8 : Passikudah Beach Leisure Day
  • Full Day: Free day at leisure to enjoy resort amenities, water sports, or seaside dining.

  • Overnight Stay: Passikudah

Day 9 : Passikudah to Arugam Bay Surf Haven
  • Morning: Transfer south along the coast to the famous surf capital of Arugam Bay.

  • Afternoon: Check in to your beach stay and explore the vibrant coastal surf town atmosphere.

  • Overnight Stay: Arugam Bay

Day 10 : Arugam Bay Surf & Lagoon Safari
  • Morning: Enjoy morning surf lessons or relax at Main Point.
  • Afternoon: Take a peaceful evening eco-lagoon boat safari in Pottuvil to spot wild elephants and birdlife.
  • Overnight Stay: Arugam Bay
Day 11 : Arugam Bay to Yala Wilderness
  • Morning: Depart the east coast and drive southwest into the dry zone boundaries of Yala.
  • Afternoon: Check in to your safari lodge and rest ahead of your wildlife expeditions.
  • Overnight Stay: Yala
Day 12 : Full-Day Yala National Park Safaris
  • Morning: Early morning safari jeep drive in Yala National Park for leopard, sloth bear, and elephant tracking.
  • Afternoon: Late afternoon game drive to explore Yala's coastal wilderness and waterholes.
  • Overnight Stay: Yala
Day 13 : Yala to Galle Heritage Coast
  • Morning: Scenic coastal drive westward along Sri Lanka's southern shoreline to Galle.

  • Afternoon: Check in and enjoy an evening sunset walk along the ramparts of UNESCO-listed Galle Fort.

  • Overnight Stay: Galle

Day 14 : Galle Fort to Colombo City
  • Morning: Stroll through Galle Fort's cobblestone streets and boutiques.
  • Afternoon: Drive up to Colombo for a light city orientation and evening leisure.
  • Overnight Stay: Colombo
Day 15 : Colombo to Airport & Departure
  • Morning / Afternoon: Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport timed perfectly to your flight schedule.

What to Expect

Highlights of the Journey

  • Northern Tamil Heritage: Explore Jaffna Fort, sacred Nallur Kovil, and take a boat ride to historic Nagadeepa Island.

  • Double National Park Safaris: Track leopards, sloth bears, and wild elephants across both Wilpattu and Yala National Parks.

  • Untouched Eastern Beaches: Unwind on the golden sands of Trincomalee, Passikudah, and experience Arugam Bay's surf culture.

  • Ancient Sacred Cities: Discover Anuradhapura’s towering ancient dagobas and sacred temples.

  • Historic Coastal Heritage: Explore the cobblestone streets and ocean ramparts of Galle Fort.