From Western Province: 2-Day Hill Country Highlights Trip

Set out on a captivating journey through Sri Lanka’s stunning Hill Country on this 2-day excursion from the Western Province. Travelers will savor panoramic train rides, thrill-seeking safaris, and immersive cultural experiences – all while uncovering the region’s natural beauty and historic sites. With expert local guidance and thoughtful inclusions, this compact adventure offers a well-rounded taste of Sri Lanka’s alluring highlands. What sights and adventures await those who join this remarkable trip?

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Key Points

The 2-Day Hill Country Highlights Trip costs Kč 6,887 per person and includes hotel pickup, one-night accommodation, one breakfast, and one dinner.
The tour covers a scenic train journey from Ella to Nuwara Eliya, a safari at Udawalawe National Park, and a guided walking tour of Galle Fort.
Travelers can witness sea turtles in Hikkaduwa, explore cascading waterfalls, and visit a tea factory and plantation in Nuwara Eliya.
The tour includes a 4-wheel drive jeep for the safari, a driver/guide, and all entrance fees and taxes.
The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and travelers should bring their passport as large bags are not allowed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

This 2-Day Hill Country Highlights Trip from Western Province costs Kč 6,887 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Guests can reserve now and pay later.

The tour lasts 2 days, with hotel pickup and drop-off included. Accommodation for 1 night in a standard hotel in Ella is provided, along with 1 breakfast and 1 dinner.

The price covers a 4-wheel drive jeep for the safari, a driver/guide, and all entrance fees and taxes.

Personal expenses and some meals are excluded.

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Itinerary Highlights

The 2-Day Hill Country Highlights Trip from Western Province offers an immersive exploration of Sri Lanka’s picturesque landscapes.

Travelers will embark on a scenic train journey through the lush hills from Ella to Nuwara Eliya. They’ll also go on a safari at Udawalawe National Park, where they can spot wild elephants, crocodiles, and various bird species.

The tour includes a guided walking tour of the historic Galle Fort and a visit to a tea factory and plantation in Nuwara Eliya.

Plus, guests will have the opportunity to witness sea turtles in Hikkaduwa and explore cascading waterfalls.

Day 1 Activities

The 2-Day Hill Country Highlights Trip begins on the west coast, where travelers start their journey.

They first stop at Hikkaduwa beach to spot sea turtles in their natural habitat.

Next, they explore the medieval buildings and fortifications of the Galle Fort on a guided tour.

The day culminates with an exciting safari in Udawalawe National Park, where they can observe elephants, crocodiles, deer, and various bird species in their natural environment.

After the safari, travelers enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in the charming town of Ella.

Day 2 Activities

After a hearty breakfast in Ella, travelers embark on the scenic hill country train journey, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Along the way, they stop at Gregory Lake Esplanade to explore the picturesque lake and gardens.

Next, the group visits a tea factory in Nuwara Eliya for a guided tour, learning about the tea-making process. The tour provides insight into the region’s thriving tea industry.

Following the factory visit, the trip concludes with a return to the west coast hotel, completing the 2-day Hill Country Highlights exploration.

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Inclusions and Important Information

The 2-day Hill Country Highlights trip includes hotel pick-up and drop-off, one-night accommodation in a standard hotel in Ella, and one breakfast and one dinner.

Other inclusions are:

4-wheel drive jeep for the safari at Udawalawe National Park.
Driver/guide, entrance fees to Udawalawe National Park, and all taxes.

Exclusions include personal expenses like tipping and laundry, and any unspecified meals.

Travelers should bring their passport, as large bags aren’t allowed. The train journey may be affected by weather, and sea turtles may not be seen occasionally.

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Scenic Hill Country Train Trip

Travelers embark on a scenic hill country train journey from Ella to Nuwara Eliya, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The train winds through lush, rolling hills, offering stunning vistas of tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and quaint towns. Passengers can marvel at the engineering feat of the railway, which navigates steep gradients and sharp curves.

Along the route, the train makes several stops, allowing travelers to step out and capture the beauty of the landscape.

The journey is a highlight of the 2-day tour, providing a leisurely and picturesque way to experience Sri Lanka’s renowned hill country.

Safari at Udawalawe National Park

Following the day’s scenic train journey, the 2-day tour takes travelers to Udawalawe National Park for a captivating safari.

The safari outing offers an opportunity to:

Spot majestic wild elephants roaming freely in their natural habitat.
Observe other indigenous wildlife, including crocodiles, deer, and a variety of bird species.
Witness the park’s diverse ecosystem and lush greenery from the comfort of a 4-wheel drive jeep.

This unforgettable safari experience allows visitors to enjoy the untamed beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness.

Exploring Galle Fort and Nuwara Eliya

Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as the next stop on the 2-day tour. Guests explore the well-preserved 17th-century colonial buildings and ramparts.

They wander the narrow streets, admiring the Dutch-influenced architecture. After the walking tour, the group heads to Udawalawe National Park for a safari. They spot wild elephants, crocodiles, and birds.

The following day begins with a scenic train journey through the hill country to Nuwara Eliya.

Upon arrival, they visit a renowned tea factory and plantation. Guests learn about the tea-making process and have a chance to sample the fresh brews before returning to the west coast.

Common Questions

What Is the Cancellation Policy for This Tour?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Customers can also reserve now and pay later if they prefer.

Do We Need to Bring Any Special Equipment for the Activities?

The tour suggests bringing a passport and avoiding large bags. While weather may affect the train journey, no other special equipment is required for the activities, such as the safari, tea plantation visit, and sea turtle watching.

What Is the Minimum Group Size Required for This Tour?

The tour does not have a minimum group size requirement. It can be booked by solo travelers or small groups alike. The trip is offered as a private tour, allowing for customization based on the needs of each individual or group.

Can We Customize the Itinerary to Include Additional Activities?

Yes, the itinerary can be customized to include additional activities. The tour operator is generally flexible and willing to modify the itinerary based on the traveler’s interests and preferences, subject to availability and additional costs.

Is Travel Insurance Recommended for This Trip?

While travel insurance is not mandatory, it’s recommended for this 2-day trip. It can provide coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost or stolen belongings, giving travelers peace of mind during their journey.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Hill Country Highlights Trip from the Western Province offers a comprehensive Sri Lankan experience. Travelers can enjoy a scenic train ride, a thrilling safari, and guided tours of historic sites, all while exploring the beautiful hill country landscape. With accommodations, meals, and local expertise included, it’s an excellent way to discover the diverse natural and cultural wonders of Sri Lanka.

You can check availability for your dates here: