New Year Adventures in Sri Lanka
12 DAYS
18 PEOPLE
3390 EURO
12 DAYS
23.12.2026 – 03.01.2027
The nature and climate of Sri Lanka, formerly known as Ceylon, are truly unique! The island is perfect for both sea adventures and coastal relaxation, as well as educational tourism. Of 130 world heritage sites protected by UNESCO, 7 are located on this stunning island. In addition, you will be amazed by the picturesque waterfalls, wide rivers, lush tropical forests, and beaches ranked among the top 10 most beautiful beaches in the world by Discovery.
Sri Lanka is an island where ancient legends, lush nature and warm seas intertwine. It is rightfully called the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean": here high mountains and tea plantations give way to tropical forests and Buddhist shrines, while the coastline offers golden beaches and turquoise waves. This is a country where every day reveals a new facet: from ancient capitals with thousand-year-old temples to colonial cities, from wildlife reserves with wild elephants and leopards to secluded ocean coves with sea turtles.
Sri Lanka is also remarkable in that this small island holds it all: the Bodhi tree - a descendant of the very tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment, the most beautiful train in the world winding through mountain tea plantations, and the granite Buddha statues in Polonnaruwa, recognized as masterpieces of world sculpture. Here myths and history feel almost tangible, and nature astonishes with its diversity.
The tour program allows you to see Sri Lanka in all its fullness: to immerse yourself in the culture, history and nature of the island, and then complete the journey with a New Year celebration and relaxation by the ocean.
"Mother Sri Lanka, you are the happiness of victory, you are the magical fruits and fragrances of flowers...". These solemn lines from the national anthem of Sri Lanka perfectly describe what awaits us ahead. And we are delighted to welcome you to this blessed island - one of the finest in the world!
ROUTE
Colombo - Pinnawala - Dambulla - Sigiriya - Minneriya - Kandy - Nuwara Eliya - Ella - Ravana - Kataragama - Yala - Galle - Unawatuna - Mirissa - Hikkaduwa - Colombo
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7 nights’ accommodation in 4* and 5* hotels on a half-board basis (breakfasts and dinners included).
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4 nights in a 5* beachfront ocean resort with breakfast included.
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Christmas and New Year festive gala dinners (excluding beverages).
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Comfortable transportation with a local guide throughout the entire itinerary.
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Airport–hotel–airport transfers if your arrival and departure dates coincide with the tour schedule.
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Meet elephants at the largest elephant sanctuary in Pinnawala.
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Visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple.
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Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock, the majestic “Fortress in the Sky.”
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Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park.
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Enjoy a vibrant evening cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dances.
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Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
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Walk through the tea plantations of Ceylon and learn about the production process of the world-famous tea.
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Excursion to Nuwara Eliya, including visits to picturesque waterfalls.
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Journey on the famous panoramic train through the Ella region, one of Asia’s most scenic railway routes.
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Visit a Hindu temple in Kataragama.
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Full-day jeep safari in Yala National Park.
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Visit a sea turtle conservation farm on the coast.
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Stroll through the historic Dutch Fort of Galle.
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Relax and explore the finest beaches along the Indian Ocean coastline.
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All entrance fees to national parks, museums, temples, and historical and architectural sites are included.
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Tour leader accompaniment from Pagnanel Studio throughout the entire journey.
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International airfare to and from Colombo, Sri Lanka.
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Travel medical insurance.
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Single occupancy supplement.
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Transfers, meals, and excursions not included in the program.
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Tips for local guides and drivers — USD 50 per person for the entire trip.
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Sri Lanka visa (applied for online; approximate cost ranges from USD 30 to USD 50 per person).
1. Our company operates as an international travel organizer, therefore groups are formed from travelers from Ukraine, the Baltic countries, the EU, Israel, North America, and other countries. The working languages of the trip are Ukrainian, Russian, and English, depending on the group composition and translation arrangements. Each guide speaks Ukrainian, and in personal communication we respond in the language of the inquiry. If a 100 percent Ukrainian-language trip is essential for you, please уточнюйте this before booking. The company does not cooperate with citizens of the Russian Federation and the Republic of Belarus.
2. Due to the fact that our expeditions do not include international flights to the starting point of the program, we cannot be held responsible for changes in flight conditions by airlines or airport requirements. Since our travelers fly from many different countries and cities, we never participate in the purchase of air travel and limit ourselves exclusively to advisory services in the selection of flights. Air agents or airlines from which tickets were purchased are responsible for the purchase and technical support.
ITINERARY
Day 1
23.12.2026
Upon arrival at Colombo airport (Bandaranaike), a Paganel Studio representative or driver will meet you at the exit with a sign. A comfortable transfer will take you to a hotel in the heart of the capital. From the very first moments, you will feel the enchanting magic of the island: the warm air, saturated with sea breeze, will intoxicate you, the graceful palm trees will captivate you, and the sound of the ocean will bring long-awaited tranquility.
After checking in to the hotel - time to rest. If your flight arrives in the first half of the day, you will have the opportunity to explore the welcoming center of Colombo on your own. This city of contrasts knows how to make your head spin. Feel the frantic pulse of the ancient Pettah district, where the traditions and scents of the East come alive. And when the sky begins to turn golden, watch the sunset at the foot of the futuristic Lotus Tower.
In the evening over a shared dinner, we will get to know each other and begin our gastronomic journey with the traditional cuisine of the island. Ahead of us are 12 days of incredible adventures that will become part of your personal book of happy moments.
Day 2
24.12.2026
We rise early in the morning, have breakfast, and head deep into the island to "catch luck by the tail" - into a real Elephant Kingdom. In many cultures, these giants are considered symbols of wisdom, strength, prosperity, and good fortune. We will be recharged with their positive energy!
Our journey takes us to Pinnawala (Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage) - the world's largest elephant orphanage. Here, in conditions as close to natural as possible, about 90 individuals in need of protection and care are living.
A special pleasure is watching the elephants' bathing ritual. Imagine: dozens of elephants simultaneously head to the Ma Oya River and, like small children, splash and frolic with great enthusiasm. This sight is deeply heartwarming, and we will certainly try to attend this joyful event. In case of heavy rains and rising water levels, the elephants' bathing in the river is cancelled.
Leaving the river splashes behind, we head to the heart of Sri Lanka's historical heritage - the so-called "Cultural Triangle", which unites the main UNESCO-protected monuments.
The Dambulla Golden Temple awaits us. At the foot of a 300-meter rock stands the "Golden Temple" with a 30-meter statue of the seated Buddha - one of the largest in Asia. Five caves house more than 150 Buddha statues and unique frescoes, and the complex itself is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Making our way to it through the jungle, we will explore ancient caves where, among hundreds of golden Buddha statues and masterful frescoes, the true breath of eternity can be felt.
Be on guard: on the way up to the temple, the local "owners" - amusing monkeys - will definitely check us out. They are very photogenic, but they won't miss a chance to snatch something tasty from you :)
We will end this eventful day with a special occasion - a festive Christmas dinner at our cozy hotel. A warm tropical evening, exotic flavors, and an atmosphere of wonder that unites European traditions with the magic of the island.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 3
25.12.2026
We wake up in anticipation of a wonder! Today we will visit the eighth wonder of the world - the rock fortress city of Sigiriya. It stands atop a 170-meter "Lion Rock". This is a unique fusion of natural power, ancient engineering, and captivating history.
Remarkably, the fortress, built in the 5th century AD, was rediscovered by the world relatively recently. After the death of its creator, King Kashyapa, Sigiriya fell into decline and lay hidden in the embrace of impenetrable jungle for a thousand years. It was not until 1831 that a British army major stumbled upon the ruins by chance. Full-scale research only began at the end of the 19th century.
The fairy tale continues at the foot of the rock. To reach the rock, we will pass through a unique ensemble: terraced gardens and the famous water gardens, where ancient fountains still function to this day. A small warning: crocodiles have taken up residence in the ancient pools. But we won't take any risks and will simply enjoy the view.
Having climbed 1,200 steps and passed through the gallery of ancient frescoes, we will find ourselves at the entrance to the citadel. We will be greeted by giant paws - all that remains of the colossal stone lion that once guarded the entrance. The lion is the ancestor of the Sinhalese people and the symbol adorning the country's flag.
Having reached the very top, we will be richly rewarded with a breathtaking panorama over endless jungle. Such moments are priceless. Sigiriya Rock is also known for its unique frescoes. According to ancient records, there were originally "500 golden maidens", but time has spared only 22 of them! The frescoes of "heavenly maidens" depict them topless - in ancient times women dressed this way here. Beyond the frescoes lies the mirror wall - a section of rock polished to such a shine that they say the king could see his reflection in it as he walked past.
We descend, rest, and in the afternoon set off on a photo safari to Minneriya National Park. Minneriya Lake was created in the 3rd century AD by King Mahasen. This ancient engineering structure provides water to animals during the dry season. Minneriya Park was established in 1997 specifically to preserve the migration corridor and habitat of Sri Lankan elephants. If we are very lucky, we might even spot a leopard or a bear there.
And before dinner, we will be ignited by the rhythmic beating of drums: dancers in bright traditional costumes and fearless fire performers will draw us into the unique ethnic world of Sri Lanka.
This will be a powerful immersion into ancient culture through the magic of rhythm and flame. We won't just watch a show - we will feel the very pulse of Sri Lanka. Today was a truly magical day, but tomorrow the island will reveal its new treasures to us.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 4
26.12.2026
Today the "Emerald Island" will reveal its greatest treasures to us - endless tea plantations and fragrant spice gardens. These crops are the heart of the economy and soul of Sri Lanka. Prepare your senses: a day filled with extraordinary flavors and aromas awaits us.
After breakfast we set off, and the first stop will be the "Spice Garden". Spices for Sri Lanka are not just a word - they are a history over which colonial wars were fought. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British battled for centuries for the right to possess local cinnamon, cloves, and pepper. We will learn how familiar spices grow and experience the very aroma that once beckoned sailors from around the world.
Next we will immerse ourselves in the spiritual world of the island and visit the city of Kandy - its cultural capital. Here lies the main Buddhist shrine - the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. According to legend, this relic was secretly brought to the island in the 4th century, hidden in the elaborate hairstyle of a princess. It is believed that whoever possesses the Tooth holds the sacred right to rule the entire country. We will touch this ancient magic and feel the atmosphere of deep reverence and tranquility.
Enjoying views of the majestic mountains, the roaring Ramboda waterfall, and tea plantations, we smoothly make our way to Nuwara Eliya - the "tea capital". This city is called "Little England": colonial architecture, well-maintained gardens, and cool misty air create a complete feeling of being in Albion's fog in the middle of the tropics.
They say that quality tea is the elixir of life. To confirm this, we will visit a tea plantation. You will witness the birth of that legendary Ceylon tea which forms the foundation of the world's great tea empires. We will conduct a tasting, breathing in and savoring the aroma of the finest varieties grown on the island's highland slopes.
By evening, inspired and at peace, we check in to the hotel. Over dinner we will once more recall all the discoveries of the day. Today we engaged all our senses, creating a true celebration for the soul and body.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 5
27.12.2026
Morning is the time when dreams become plans, and our plans for today are a sea of wonderful emotions. We head to a truly magical place: the highland town of Ella, nestled comfortably among majestic peaks. Ella is the embodiment of Sri Lanka's charm. Here, endless tea plantations are cut through by walking trails, waterfalls roar, and the tranquility of small Buddhist temples lingers in the air. Delicious food and the genuine friendliness of the locals make this place a must-visit for every true traveler.
An immersion into the island's mythology awaits us. We will visit the waterfall and the legendary Ravana Cave, located at an altitude of approximately 1,370 meters. According to legend, this is where the formidable King Ravana hid the kidnapped princess Sita. This place literally breathes the history of the ancient epic "Ramayana".
Next we will take part in one of the most beautiful and romantic railway journeys in the world. We will travel across the famous Nine Arches Bridge.
This bridge is a triumph of colonial-era engineering, built without the use of steel. The train glides smoothly above the jungle abyss through emerald tea plantations.
Filled with inspiration, we will head to the sacred city of Kataragama. This is one of the few places on the planet where representatives of three religions - Buddhism, Hinduism, and Islam - coexist in absolute harmony. Here we will feel the unique energy of unity and faith. In the evening we arrive in the Yala region, check in to the hotel, and review the day's footage over dinner. We prepare for an early rise: tomorrow a meeting with wildlife awaits us!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 6
28.12.2026
Brief forecast for today: many thrilling emotions and impressions are expected. We set off on a real jeep safari adventure.
We will get acquainted with the "leopard capital", as well as visit elephants, crocodiles, spotted deer, peacocks, and other inhabitants of Yala National Park. It is the second largest and most popular park in Sri Lanka. The park covers 979 km², divided into five zones, each representing a unique landscape - from dense jungle to sand dunes and ocean coastline. So there will be plenty to see and explore for us :)
Yala is famous for having one of the highest leopard population densities in the world. The Sri Lankan leopard is a unique subspecies found only on this island. Due to the absence of competition from tigers or lions, it has become the undisputed king of beasts here. We will make every effort to track and capture on camera these graceful and majestic cats.
Yala conceals not only natural but also historical giants. Within the park, the ruins of the ancient kingdom of Ruhuna (Rohana), which flourished from the 3rd century BC to the 16th century, have been preserved. Thanks to its geographic isolation - mountains, jungle, and rivers - Ruhuna was a natural fortress. When invaders seized the northern capitals, Sinhalese rulers took refuge here to gather their strength. All of the island's great liberation campaigns originated from here.
Ruhuna was also the main "supplier" of war elephants. Legend has it that the famous elephant Kandula, on which King Dutugamunu won the decisive battle for the unification of the country, was born here. It was believed that the local elephants were the strongest and most intelligent. Today we will meet their free-roaming descendants. We will have lunch and rest in the shade of the trees, and in the afternoon, when the light becomes softer and the animals more active, we will continue our safari.
By evening we will return to the hotel for dinner, seasoned with exotic memories of our safari, which makes the colors of life many times brighter!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 7
29.12.2026
After the active safari, we move to a zone of absolute calm - the unique port city of Galle. Here the European architecture of the 17th century has harmoniously intertwined with tropical nature. Cozy cafes, an ancient lighthouse, picturesque views of the ocean from the fortress walls, and the absence of urban bustle immerse you in a state of pure enjoyment of the moment. The city's main treasure is Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best-preserved fort in Asia.
Galle has absorbed the heritage of three eras: Portuguese, Dutch, and British. Within the walls, the Old Dutch Church (1755), the Catholic Cathedral of St. Mary, the Peace Mosque, and the Buddhist Sudarmalaya Temple coexist in perfect harmony.
We will see the 26-meter Galle Lighthouse - the oldest working lighthouse in the country. Built by the British in 1848, it still guides ships to this day. Another symbol of the city is the old Clock Tower of the 19th century. It faithfully counts the minutes, as if recording the history of this port in the Book of Eternity. Today we too will become part of this chronicle. But Galle is not only stones and monuments. It is cozy art galleries, little shops, and stylish cafes.
Today we will also stop by Sea Turtle Farm Galle Mahamodara. This is not just a tourist attraction, but a real hospital and incubator for sea turtles, whose numbers worldwide are rapidly declining. We will be able to see how endangered species are protected, and perhaps witness the first steps of tiny little turtles.
After an eventful day, we will check in to the 5-star Radisson Blu Resort Galle, located on the ocean front. And we will spend four unforgettable nights there!
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 8
30.06.2026
We continue immersing ourselves in an incredible atmosphere, discovering the most picturesque corners of the coastline. Right after breakfast we hop into colorful local tuk-tuks and head off on a tour of three famous southern beaches.
Dalawella Beach. This beach enchants with its seclusion and picture-perfect scenery. Thanks to a rocky reef, a relatively calm lagoon with turquoise water has formed here - an ideal place for swimming.
Large sea turtles are frequent guests in the lagoon waters. We will be able to swim alongside them and even feed them seaweed. And to add a truly exotic shot to your collection, there is a legendary Instagram hit here - the rope swing on a palm tree (Dream Cabana Swing). Soar above the ocean, find your angle, and create your own unique photo masterpieces on the island of Sri Lanka.
Our next beach - Turtle Beach. If on the first beach turtles are a stroke of luck, then at Turtle Beach they are a guarantee. The ancient reptiles here are almost tame and swim to shore every day. This is a unique chance to see them at arm's length. And the coral reef nearby will offer an encounter with colorful fish and, possibly, small reef sharks.
The third stop - Koggala Beach in Sri Lanka - is a well-known spot where you can witness the unique traditional "stilt fishing". Fishermen balance on narrow poles in shallow water while catching fish.
If time permits, we will also stop at Jungle Beach - a secret beach hidden in dense jungle far from the noise of roads. This is a truly "cinematic" place: lush greenery leans right down to the water, and the sand appears snow-white against the turquoise ocean. Despite the atmosphere of a lost world, everything is here for comfort: cozy cafes and comfortable sun loungers.
After lunch, it's time for yourself. You can continue with a lazy rest by the pool or on the beach. And those who still have energy to spare can try to conquer the waves - there are several surfing schools in the area where you can take a lesson from professionals.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 9 - 10
31.06.2026 - 01.01.2027
After the eventful expedition, it's time to slow down. These festive days are designed for us to spend them at the perfect pace. Golden beaches, cozy restaurants, and relaxing spa treatments await those seeking serenity. You can head to Mirissa Beach for another swim in the company of friendly turtles.
For those who want to start the year with grand impressions, there is an opportunity to go on a sea excursion to see blue whales and dolphins. Snorkeling alongside these majestic ocean rulers is an experience that transforms your consciousness and stays in your heart forever. But no one can guarantee a whale encounter - it's a 50/50 chance.
And in the evening, a gala dinner awaits us. Although the Sri Lankan New Year is celebrated in April, on December 31 the island transforms into a center of global celebration. Beach parties under the open sky, fireworks over the ocean, live music, decorated palms instead of Christmas trees, and Santas strolling along the sand - the festive atmosphere here is absolutely unique.
There is a belief: if you welcome the New Year on a faraway journey, the whole next year will be full of discoveries, abundance, and prosperity. And we are welcoming it not just abroad, but on one of the most beautiful islands in the world, surrounded by friends and like-minded companions! Suba Aluth Avurudhak Wewa! (Happy New Year!)
The whole next day, January 1st, we will dedicate to rest, enjoying the ocean and simply living with pleasure. Those who wish can take a trip to a favorite beach or stroll along the promenade in Galle.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner including New Year's Eve Dinner included.
Day 11
02.01.2027
Happy, warmed by the tropical sun, saturated with the salt of the ocean, and inspired by every moment, we begin our unhurried journey home. All this baggage of impressions will now forever remain part of your personal story.
We have breakfast, take a farewell look at the waves, and slowly pack up. We check out of the hotel and head along the picturesque coastline to the north. Along the way, a stop in colorful Hikkaduwa awaits us: once more we will dip into the warm waters and greet the enormous green turtles who have already become our friends.
After the seaside break, we return to the capital. A short sightseeing tour of Colombo awaits us - an opportunity to once more see the contrasts of this city, where the colonial past meets the futuristic future.
We check in to the hotel and gather for a festive farewell dinner. Surrounded by people who have already become close friends, we will raise our glasses to our incredible adventure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner included
Day 12
03.12.2027
We wake up and enjoy a Ceylon breakfast. It is time to say goodbye to the welcoming island. A transfer to the airport awaits us.
Our Sri Lanka expedition has come to an end. This is not just a dot on the map - this is a tropical paradise in the very heart of the Indian Ocean, where dreams are born and true bliss is found. This journey will remain with you forever: in vivid photographs, exotic flavors, spiced aromas, and those priceless memories that make life truly rich.
Until we meet again on the roads of the world!
WHY WITH PAGANEL?
We are unique
For many years, we have been traveling the world to our small planet's most remote and unusual places. We do not use the services of domestic travel agencies. The trips we invent and carry out are always unique and have their unique zest, charm, and adventurous spirit.
Creation
The first thing that interests us is creativity in everything. During the expeditions, we shoot a lot of videos, take pictures, write stories, draw pictures. If you are interested in a creative approach to life and travel, then WELCOME... we are very happy to meet you!
Interest
By joining our team, you join a kind of club family, which already consists of several hundred people who are interested in discovering the world with us.
Since most of the expenses for organizing a trip – air tickets and travel documents for other modes of transportation, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. – are made by us in advance, long before the trip, the prepayment or payment for the trip is non-refundable in the event of cancellation.
Since most of the expenses for the organization of the trip are air tickets and travel documents for other types of transport, accommodation, excursions, services of local companies and guides, etc. are not refundable in case of your cancellation of the trip. We simply have no way to return it.
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