Fez Files

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• ​Day 1: Arrival & Transfer to Kandy

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Our adventure in Sri Lanka began with an overnight Etihad Airways flight, chosen for its affordability despite departing from Abu Dhabi. Upon landing at Bandaranaike International Airport, we immediately transferred to Kandy, eager to explore the lush hill country. After checking into our hotel, we spent the afternoon resting before heading out for dinner at Vito Wood Fired Pizza, where we enjoyed a delicious meal. With the long journey behind us, we returned to our hotel, ready to explore Kandy the next day

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• Day 2: Sigiriya & Dambulla Day Trip

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We set out early for a full-day excursion from Kandy to Sigiriya, visiting some of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sites. Our first stop was Sigiriya Lion Rock, where we climbed the ancient fortress for breathtaking panoramic views. 

 

We then explored the Dambulla Royal Cave Temple, a stunning complex of cave shrines filled with intricate Buddhist murals and statues. Along the way, we stopped at the Srilak Spice and Herbal Botanical Garden, learning about Sri Lanka’s rich tradition of herbal medicine, and also visited the Sri Muthumar Amman Kovil, a beautiful Hindu temple. Unfortunately, our visit coincided with the country’s presidential elections, and a curfew was in place. Thankfully, as tourists, we were allowed to continue our journey with police permission, and the roads were empty, making travel faster. 

 

After returning to Kandy, we took a relaxing stroll around Kandy Lake before heading back to our hotel, missing out on the nightlife due to the ongoing curfew.

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• Day 3: Scenic Train Ride to Nuwara Eliya

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After breakfast, we made our way to the Kandy railway station for one of the most scenic train rides in the world, heading towards Nuwara Eliya. The journey was nothing short of spectacular, with endless tea plantations, misty hills, and breathtaking landscapes passing by.

 

Upon arrival, our initial plan was to rest at our hotel and enjoy the cool mountain air, as Nuwara Eliya is significantly colder than the rest of Sri Lanka. However, on our way, we met a friendly tuk-tuk driver who offered us a local tour at a reasonable price. We accepted and spent the evening exploring the charming hill station before finally settling in at our hotel, amazed by the beauty of our surroundings.

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• Day 4: Exploring Nuwara Eliya & Train to Ella

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The next morning, we set off to explore Nuwara Eliya with our tuk-tuk driver. Our first stop was the historic Nuwara Eliya Post Office, one of the oldest in Sri Lanka. We then visited Nanu Oya Waterfall, Inverness Tea Plantation, Labukele Viewpoint, and the Damro Tea Plantation & Factory, where we learned about the process of making Ceylon tea. After grabbing a quick lunch, we made our way back to the train station for another stunning railway journey - this time to Ella, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous backpacker towns. 

 

Upon arriving, we checked into our guesthouse and explored Ella Street, which was buzzing with tourists, cafes, and souvenir shops. We ended the night with dinner from Cafe Eden, excited for the adventures awaiting us the next day.

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• Day 5: Hiking, Adventure & Ella Nightlife

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We started our day with a hike along the Little Adam’s Peak Trailhead, which led us to the Flying Ravana Zipline, where we enjoyed an adrenaline-filled experience soaring over the lush landscapes of Ella. Afterward, we had lunch at Ella Heritage Restaurant, then returned to our hotel for a quick rest before heading out again in the evening. 

 

Unlike Kandy, Ella had a lively nightlife scene, and we enjoyed strolling through the vibrant streets, filled with music and energy. We wrapped up the night with a fantastic dinner at La Mensa, before heading back to our guesthouse for some well-earned rest.

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• Day 6: Nine Arches Bridge & Transfer to Bentota

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Before sunrise, we set off on a short hike through a forested trail to reach the famous Nine Arches Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks. Along the way, we were joined by two stray dogs who happily accompanied us on the hike, making the experience even more memorable. Once we arrived, we were lucky enough to witness a train passing over the bridge, a sight straight out of a postcard.

 

After returning to our guesthouse for breakfast, we packed up and booked a taxi to Bentota, as the train would have taken much longer. Upon arrival, we checked into our guesthouse, took a peaceful evening walk, and enjoyed a delicious dinner at Vintage Restaurant before calling it a night.

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• Day 6: Bentota Beach & Departure

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On our final day, we woke up early and headed straight to Bentota Beach, eager to experience Sri Lanka’s coastal beauty. However, strong winds and unexpected rain prevented us from swimming, so we enjoyed the peaceful shore instead. After breakfast, we packed our bags and made our way back to the airport for our flight home to Abu Dhabi, bringing an end to an incredible journey filled with adventure, nature, and unforgettable memories.

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