lanka tours photos

Colombo, Galle, Ella, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy and Sigiriya

Sri lanka – the pearl of the indian ocean.

Sri Lanka is an island paradise with a few thousand years of cross-cultural percolation. English sailors, Dutch traders, and Portuguese spice merchants – they’ve all called Sri Lanka home. And they left behind a colonial legacy that makes this tea-scented spice island a historical goldmine. On our 12-Day Sri Lanka Photo Tour and Cultural Adventure, you will be experiencing amazing travel moments. One minute you’re climbing a 1500 year-old Kashyapa temple, the next you’re checking out a colonial church in Colombo, chatting with Tamil fisherman or sipping a Ceylon brew from tribes people in the misty highlands of Kandy. 

Set in the Indian Ocean in South Asia, the tropical island nation of Sri Lanka has a history dating back to the birth of time. It is a place where the original soul of Buddhism still flourishes and where nature’s beauty remains abundant and unspoiled. Few places in the world can offer the traveler such a remarkable combination of stunning landscapes, captivating cultural heritage and unique experiences within such a compact location. This is an island of magical proportions, once also known as Serendib, Taprobane, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, and Ceylon.

We begin and end in Colombo, the capital of Sri Lanka. We’ll travel south to Galle, and photograph stilt fishermen on the beach. Enjoy and photograph the magical village of Ella and the train ride to Nuwara Eliya. Tea plantations and the famous Demodara 9 Arches Bridge. We’ll photograph Sri Lanka “Veddas” indigenous tribal communities and their unique culture, and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. All while staying in stunning hotel properties that are bound to captivate your soul.

This adventure is designed not only to guide you to the most photogenic locations carefully planned for the best light, but to aid you in mentally visualizing a scene before capturing the decisive moment. Our aim is to raise your awareness and spark your creativity, so that you not only go home with images to be proud of, but use your new found skills to improve and expand your photographic technique in general. Apart from the technical aspect of learning your camera settings and capabilities, you will learn how to turn an ordinary image into an extraordinary image by using your own creativity.

In addition, you will become knowledgeable on how to survey the landscape, utilize and approach your environment, photograph people indigenous to the region and the cultural considerations and challenges of photographing in a foreign country. Our time together will include individual and group discussions, inspiring ideas and great fun. We cannot think of a better country to express your creativity than Sri Lanka.

Experience | Difficulty

• Beginner, amateur, enthusiast and semi-pro photographers
• DSLR, mirrorless, compact or iPhone cameras
• Moderate schedule
• Travel by private air-conditioned car, train and minivan
• Minimal elevation changes and lots of walking
• (non-photographers also welcome)

Weather | Sun

February / March  – Temps 87/76 F  30/24 C  Sunrise 6:26 | Sunset 6:22 (18:22) – Low Rain

• Travel, street, people, landscape, nature and architecture photography
• Professional photographer | guide
• Photo walks & discussions
• Small group size (4-8 guests)
• 5-star luxury hotels
• Airport transfers
• All entrance fees & permits
• Sri Lanka train ride
• Local transportation

Travel Information

Arrival & Departure Airport:  Bandaranaike International Airport, Colombo, Sri Lanka (CMB) – Transfer time to hotel 50min Our adventure begins at 11 AM on the first day and ends at noon on the last day. Travel Visa: A visa may be required depending on your nationality. Go to Visa Map to find out.

Accommodations

Colombo – UGA Residence  or similar >>  (see our blog post about this hotel) Galle – The Fortress Resort & Spa or similar Ella – 98 Acres Resort and Spa or similar Nuwara-Eliya – Jetwing St. Andrew’s or similar Sigiriya – Hotel Kandalama or similar

Helpful Links

>  Residence by UGA Escapes – by Michael Chinnici > Sri Lanka – Asia’s Hidden Gem  – by Michael Chinnici

Sri Lanka Prices & Dates

Photographer Leader

Lorenz berna.

March 15-26, 2025 March 14-25, 2026

*All prices are per person and based on double occupancy. Please select single occupancy for a private room. For your convenience, we offer optional early arrival and late departure accommodations so you can extend your stay before or after the trip. We typically stay in upscale boutique hotels in the 4 and 5-star category. Not all destinations offer these types of properties. We look for unique hotels that offer cultural, historic, and/or authentic features. Depending on the size of the group, smaller boutique hotels may have limited room inventory. In some countries or in remote locations, we may be limited to lodges or branded chain hotels. In Cuba, we stay in upscale family-owned Casas (bread & breakfasts). On all of our tours, breakfast is almost always included, but not guaranteed. Meal categories listed include (B) for breakfast, (L) for lunch, and (D) for dinner.

UPCOMING WORKSHOPS

Sri lanka   12 days, day 1 | colombo - usavi watta.

We begin by meeting in the lobby of our amazing hotel in Colombo, where we will have our group introductions and discuss the days ahead. At lunch we will discuss our individual photographic styles, preferred subjects, techniques and level of experience. We will also talk about what to expect over the coming days, and how to achieve our photographic goals.

Located on the west coast of the beautiful island nation, Colombo is the lively commercial hub of the country. The city occupies a superb position on the East-West sea trade route, and therefore is home to the country’s largest and main port. Colombo’s port itself has a unique and remarkable history. In 1815 Colombo became Sri Lanka’s capital city under the rule of the British Empire and it remained so until Sri Lanka gained independence in 1948. Colombo, with its rich colonial heritage, is a potpourri of races, religions and cultures. Colombo displays the best and worst the country has to offer. The city is a contrast itself, with mansions, lush gardens, fine dining options, shopping malls packed with expensive designer brands standing next to urban slums, diesel fumed congested roads and street markets.

With that said, we will spend the afternoon exploring one of Colombo’s slums. We’ll waste no time exposing you to the poverty. But don’t worry, we’ll be safe, together with our local guide and fixer who knows the neighborhood very well. It is believed that half of Colombo’s residents dwell in illegal settlements or in houses designated as unsuitable for human dwelling. We’ll be interacting with locals, photographing environmental portraits, and documenting peoples’ lives. After what’s sure to be an emotional day, we’ll return to our hotel before heading out for a Welcome Dinner at one of our favorite Sri Lankan restaurants. (D)

Day 2 | Colombo - Pettah Market - Gangaramaya Temple

We begin early by wandering through the streets of one of Colombo’s busiest places, the Pettah Market. It’s a marriage of multiple shops with knick-knacks, bazaar-style pedestrian stalls, barrow boys, branded outlets, and a number of dramatic and awe-inspiring religious monuments. The gridlocked streets of the Pettah area are soaring and unique, and best experienced on foot. Each vibrant street is devoted to different trade and presents a highly entertaining blend of sensory delights. It is common to see female shoppers take wedding saris off displays and scrutinize them carefully or drape Indian saris with designs, embroidery and rich textures around them. Modern consumers are as active as a hive of bees here, sifting through arrays of fabric and clothes, looking for the perfect purchase. Other traders offer bags – from school bags to handbags to travel bags, caps, baby products, stationery, gift items and much more.

Afterward, transfer to one of the biggest Buddhist temples in Colombo. Once you enter the temple buildings you completely forget that you are in a busy city. In the evening, sitting under the Bodhi tree where monks chant and pray, tranquility descends around you. It is definitely not a site to be missed on your visit to Colombo. Situated near Beira Lake, in the heart of Colombo, the temple was established in 1885 by Venerable Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thera. It gradually grew into the complex it is today, which includes the Vihara (monastery), Cetiya (pagoda), Vihara Mandiraya (Image House, which is full of colorful Buddha statues), Seema Malaka, the Bodhi Tree, the Relic Chamber, as well as a library and a museum. At the far end of the courtyard are rows of elevating steps on which Buddha statues of the Thai style have been sequentially placed to greet the skyline.

In the evening session, not fat away, the slums of Colombo will be portrayed. Hundreds of shanty towns line the riverbanks, train tracks, and garbage dumps in the Colombo capital — the most jammed-packed areas in one of Sri Lanka’s most densely populated cities. Around a quarter of its 200,000 people are considered “informal settlers.”

Colombo is starkly representative of a global problem. According to the United Nations, about a quarter of the world’s urban population lives in slums—and this figure is rising fast. Rich cultural heritage brings visitors to Colombo’s untouched areas of slums, but some feel compelled to leave the safety of the historic center sites to get a glimpse of the city’s inequality. The people are of slums smart, friendly and most of all unimaginably hospitable. They are open for talks, invite you and love selfies. The private sphere and the right to one’s own picture don’t bother anyone. (B)

Day 3 | Colombo - Ambalangoda - Galle

We depart Colombo and head to Galle.

As we drive down south, we will start to observe authentic old Ceylon traditions. Located in the southern province of Sri Lanka lies Ambalangoda, a region that is synonymous with traditional Sri Lankan masks and devil dancers. Colorful and vibrant, these traditional masks that are handcrafted and painted are much more than mere embellishments as they reflect a fascinating dimension of authentic Sri Lankan culture.

As those delving into the sensational world of masks and their accompanying rituals would discover, there are three distinct kinds of masks and rituals that stem from the region. Kolam masks are used in satirical plays of the Colonial Era, Raksha masks are utilized in processions and festivals and Sanni masks are worn during traditional devil dances performed to exorcise demons. We’ll spend the day exploring Ambalangoda, and its artisans who make the ubiquitous “devil masks” – used in devil dances, which drive out spirits causing illness. These dances still occur regularly in the hinterland villages. In the afternoon, we return to Galle. (B)

Day 4 | Galle Exploration - Stilt Fishermen

Galle is endlessly exotic, bursting with the scent of spices and salty winds, and yet also, with its wonderful collection of Dutch-colonial buildings, a town of great beauty. Classic architecture melds with a dramatic tropical setting to create a reality that is endlessly interesting. Above all else, Galle is a city of trade and, increasingly, art. Today the historic fort area is crammed full of little boutique shops, cafes and hotels owned by local and foreign artists, writers, photographers, designers and poets. Built by the Dutch, beginning in 1663, the 36-hectare Galle Fort occupies most of a promontory that’s surrounded on three sides by the ocean. Just wandering the old walls and streets at random yields one architectural surprise after another as you explore the amazing collection of structures dating back through the centuries. Its glories have earned the Fort status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Thereafter visit of Beeralu Lace Making, which is also something inherited from Portuguese and it is still being carried out by very handful of women in the fort. Every weekday morning at the Sipnara Handicrafts centre, a small group of women – both young and old – gather in front of individual beeralu kotte (lace pillows). They’re here to learn the process of weaving this type of lace under the supervision of masters of Beeralu art. You also have the opportunity to participate in this act under their watchful eyes. The art is dying and taking a glimpse of that is a must before you leave the fort.

Before dinner we will photograph the stilt fishermen during sunset, including local vendors, people and fishermen on the beach. (B

Day 5 | Galle - Ella

Today we begin with an early morning drive to Ella from Galle, where you will witness the beauty of Ella. The small town of Ella rests in the middle of the beautiful green fields of tea. A tiny, picturesque village in the highlands of the country, it is a place for those seeking an offbeat experience. Ella is where life hits the slow button, where you pause and are able to notice floating clouds, the rustling that arises from the nearby forests, steam rising off a slowly-chugging train, and all the colors that a butterfly brings. Most travelers fall in love with its surroundings, which seduce them into staying longer than they planned.

Needless to say, the photography opportunities at Ella are quite enchanting. We’ll have the chance to shoot incredible landscapes, carpeted tea plantations, mountain ranges, plus railway life and very friendly local people. Additionally, you will get an opportunity to walk through tea plantations and take shots of “Tea Leaf Plucker Ladies” and plantation workers as they go about their daily workday. Tea plantations also offer panoramic views of the surrounding hill country, which is excellent for taking landscapes. The surrounding countryside is nature’s paradise. Thick-canopied jungles, waterfalls and infinite horizons and more!

The highlight of our photo adventure to Ella may very well be shooting the famous Demodara 9 Arches Bridge. It is just a 35-minute walk from the Ella train station. The bridge was built without any steel bars and is a true engineering feat as well as being a spectacular structure. We will be photographing the bridge from unique angles. The Ella Train Station also promises to be an interesting place to shoot a “typical train station”, where time has stood still. If we are lucky we may be able to get some shots of Station Master and his staff, formally dressed in their crisp white uniform with a hat and a tie! A true legacy from the Colonial times, which has remained unchanged to this date. How amazing is that?

At the end of the day we will capture the sunset at Little Adam’s Peak, which looks out over the dramatic mountain range and Adam’s Peak. And finally, in true PWA tradition, you will be able to taste mouth-watering Sri Lankan traditional dishes in local restaurants. (B)

Day 6 | Ella - Nuwara Eliya

We are up early for the sunrise and to take in as much as possible before we leave this magical oasis. After a morning shoot and breakfast, we head to town to capture the village just one more time before bidding Ella farewell.

We’ll board a late morning train to Nuwara Eliya. On board the train, you will again have plenty of opportunities to take photographs of people and passing landscape, small village hill train stations etc. The train travels at a slow speed, so there will be excellent opportunities to park yourself at exit doors to get uninterrupted views of the scenic beauty. By late afternoon we arrive in Nuwara Eliya where we will check into our hotel and enjoy a relaxing dinner. (B)

Day 7 | Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, we visit a tea plantation followed by a Nuwara Eliya city tour. The salubrious climate has branded Nuwara Eliya into a sanatorium that attracts Sri Lankan tourists as well as foreign travelers. Golf tournaments, horse racing, motor cross, clay pigeon shooting and carnivals are some of the main festivities.

Sri Lanka is one of the world’s largest exporters of tea. Since the introduction of tea to Sri Lanka in the mid-19th century, Nuwara Eliya has been the capital of the tea industry. For many miles prior to reaching Nuwara Eliya, you will witness tea estates as far as the eye can see. In the evening we will review images. (B)

Day 8 | Nuwara Eliya - Kandy - Mahiyangana

After an early breakfast, we will check out and travel to Kandy. While in Kandy, we will visit the Buddhist temple Sri Dalada Maligawa Temple or the “Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic”. It is located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, which houses the relic of the tooth of the Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country.

Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site mainly due to the temple. Bhikkhus of the two chapters of Malwatte and Asgiriya conduct daily worship in the inner chamber of the temple. Rituals are performed three times daily: at dawn, at noon and in the evenings. On Wednesdays, there is a symbolic bathing of the relic with an herbal preparation made from scented water and fragrant flowers called Nanumura Mangallaya. This holy water is believed to contain healing powers and is distributed among those present.

Next, we will travel to Dambana where our focus will be on photographing the Sri Lanka “Vedda” indigenous tribal communities and their unique culture. Sri Lanka’s Aborigines’, or the “Vedda” meaning “people of the forest” have a history much older than Prince Vijaya’s landing in the 5th century BC and the origins of the Sinhala race. Archaeological evidence suggests that modern Veddas neolithic ancestors inhabited this island as far back as 10,000 BC.

Once roaming the Great Plains of the north-central region to the central mountains, today the remaining Vedda population is confined to Dambana which is close to Maduru Oya sanctuary. They are essentially hunter-gatherer forest dwellers without much change in their lifestyle from the stone age to modern times. The language used by them is an ancient dialect of Sinhala. Their staple diet being venison, Veddas are allowed to hunt legally to sustain themselves within certain areas. They are also expert fisherman and collect bees’s honey, that they use to exchange with the locals for ax blades and cloth. (B)

Day 9 | Mahiyangana – Meemure - Sigiriya

After an early breakfast, we will check out and travel to Sigiriya via the village of Meemure.

Meemure is thought to be an unexploited nature’s gift. The unforgiving terrain has made the area less accessible, making Meemure an exclusive place. The area is a piece of land that combines pre-historic values and nature. The village itself receives abundant water in the form of waterfalls that have their sources in the evergreen forests of the Knuckles. East of the village lies the pyramid-shaped Lakegala mountain; while the west is dominated by the picturesque Knuckles range. The northern boundary of Meemure borders a forest that runs to the ‘Pitawala Pathana’ grassland; and the south is bounded by the Heen River.

The only way to reach Meemure is from the ‘Hunnasgiriya’ mountain, which is part of the Knuckles range, approximately 50km from Kandy. It’s a difficult trail of 33km from Hunnasgiriya to Meemure with many tricky spots, though the view along it is excellent. Pack-bulls used to be the solitary method of transport to Meemure up until now. Herds of cattle carried sacks full of goods and equipment to the village. Due to the fertility and prosperity of the village; the pack-bulls were only used to carry salt, cloths, tobacco and calcium bicarbonate. But with the invasion of modern technology, the trails have been widened to allow three-wheelers, jeeps, and small trucks.

The lifestyle of the villagers shows their loyalty to nature. The villagers build eco-friendly homes using clay and illuk (spear grass) which last for over three decades. But the most unique aspect of their buildings is their boundary walls made of quartz.

Later in the evening, we check into our hotel in Sigiriya. (B)

Day 10 | Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa

After an early breakfast we visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Our focus will be on the compelling ancient architecture, numerous Buddhist temples, ancient monuments, temple complexes, people, devotees and monks.

The Gal Vihara , also known as Gal Viharaya and originally called Uttararama, is a rock temple of the Buddha situated in the ancient city of Polonnaruwa in North Central Province, Sri Lanka. The Polonnaruwa Vatadage is an ancient structure dating back to the Kingdom of Polonnaruwa of Sri Lanka. It is believed to have been built during the reign of Parakramabahu I to hold the Relic of the tooth of the Buddha or during the reign of Nissanka Malla of Polonnaruwa to hold the alms bowl used by the Buddha.

In the afternoon, we will explore the ancient rock fortress “Sigiriya”, with its caves, wall paintings and the surrounding landscape. Sigiriya is an ancient rock fortress located in Northern Matale District near the town of Dambulla in the central province, Sri Lanka. The name refers to a site of historical and archaeological significance that is dominated by a massive column of rock nearly 200 meters (660 ft) high.

After dinner we will review images. (B)

Day 11 | Sigiriya - Anuradhapura - Colombo

The ruins of Anuradhapura are one of South Asia’s most evocative sights. The sprawling complex contains a rich collection of archaeological and architectural wonders: enormous dagobas (brick stupas), ancient pools and crumbling temples, built during Anuradhapura’s thousand years of rule over Sri Lanka. Today, several of the sites remain in use as holy places and temples; frequent ceremonies give Anuradhapura a vibrancy that’s a sharp contrast to the museum-like ambiance at Polonnaruwa.

Anuradhapura currently serves as the capital city of the North Central Province, and is considered the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Its vast network of ancient Buddhist temples, monasteries and places of worship which cover over 40 sq km has made it a sacred site to Buddhists around the world. Current-day Anuradhapura is a pleasant albeit sprawling city; a small town that feels more like a large village. From giant man-made creations spanning from stupas to lakes, to sacred religious sites, this ancient city oozes brilliance. The temples & monumental dagobas, amongst the greatest architectural feats of its age, have been surpassed only in scale by the great pyramids of Khufru & Khafra at Gizeh.

Together with stupas, temples & monasteries of Buddhism, the crowning glory surfaced: irrigation. Colossal rainwater reservoirs were constructed by way of manpower and elephants. With the concept of saving rainwater by means of reservoirs, the island became self-sufficient in rice, the staple diet of the Sinhalese. Almost all of these tanks have been restored, and to this date still provide a lifeline to farmers.

Once completed, we drive back to the urban center of the island where we started our trip from. In the evening, we will enjoy a beautiful Farewell Dinner at one of Colombo’s best restaurants. (B)(D)

Day 12 | Colombo

After our morning breakfast we exchange information and bid you farewell. Our driver will be escorting you to the airport in time for your flight. We urge you to extend your stay in Asia and make good use of everything you will learn on our photo adventure. (B)

(B) Breakfast, (L) Lunch, (D) Dinner, (E) Excursion

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25 photos that will inspire you to visit Sri Lanka with Intrepid

Rainforests. Beaches. Ruins. Temples. Tea. Surf. Trains. 

So many reasons to visit the idyllic island nation of Sri Lanka.

But why simply list the reasons when we could show you picture proof that this destination deserves a place at the very top of your bucket list? In this instance, ‘picture proof’ comes in the form of some lovely shots from photographer extraordinaire Ryan Bolton who embarked on Intrepid’s 8-day Simply Sri Lanka trip just a while back.

We think he did a great job capturing the fun of the trip, the beauty of the country, and the magic of an adventure with Intrepid. Give the photo essay a browse, and apologies in advance if the temptation to book gets a little too unbearable…

Day 1: Negombo

Close to the capital and hearteningly near the waterfront, Negombo is a great first stop in Sri Lanka. Enjoy one of many beach bars and restaurants, and get settled in.

Arriving into Negombo

The fish market in Negombo

READ MORE: 5 EXPERIENCES THAT PROVE SRI LANKA IS AN ADVENTURER’S PARADISE

Day 2: Dambulla

Time for action! Drive to the town of Dambulla and visit either a wildlife reserve (hello, wild elephants!) or the nearby Dambulla Caves. Whichever option you pick is bound to be a winner.

The Dambulla Caves

Monkeys in Dambulla

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Day 3: Sigiraya, Kandy

Because you can’t visit Sri Lanka without ogling at the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya. Ensure you wear good shoes because the hike is steep but OH SO WORTH IT.

Hiking to Sigiriya

Happy at the top

Endless views

When you’ve taken photos aplenty, it’s time for the next stop: Kandy. To experience the best of the city, be sure to visit the Temple of the Tooth (the country’s most important Buddhist site) and enjoy a dance and drumming performance.

Lovely Kandy

At Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth

A cultural performance in Kandy

CHECK OUT INTREPID’S RANGE OF SMALL GROUP TOURS IN SRI LANKA

Day 4: Nuwara Eliya

Lakes, markets, citadels and nature walks.. there’s so much to do in and around Kandy. But if you’re looking for even more adventure, try a day trip to Nuwara Eliya. The only thing better than the train journey there is the colonial charm and British tea culture you’ll be immersed in upon arrival.

The train to Nuwara Eliya

Lush landscapes aplenty

Learning about the tea growing industry

Enjoying tea in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya views

READ MORE: WHY NORTHERN SRI LANKA SHOULD BE ON YOUR TRAVEL RADAR

Day 5: Unawatuna

Ready to relax? Unawatuna is made for unwinding in style. Try your hand at surfing, then reward yourself with a drink (or three) in one of many local restaurants and bars.

Coastal bliss in Unawatuna

Group surf lesson

Taking it slow in Unawatuna

READ MORE: 6 BEACHES IN SRI LANKA YOU SIMPLY HAVE TO VISIT

Day 6: Unawatuna

Relax on the beach – all day, if you please. Or pop to nearby Galle for Dutch colonial architecture and a bunch of boutique shops. Back in Unawatuna, maybe it’s time for a group meal and cocktail session?

Tuk tuk in Unawatuna

Tropical vibes

Drinks with the Intrepid group in Unawatuna

READ MORE: 5 BREAKFASTS IN SRI LANKA WORTH A TASTE

Day 7: Colombo

Take the train to Sri Lanka’s capital, hit the shops, embrace the street food, and make the most of your last night. The tour might be coming to an end, but the memories will last a lifetime.

A market in Colombo

A cooking class in Colombo

READ MORE: SRI LANKA’S MOST FASCINATING HISTORICAL SITES

Day 8: Colombo

Although it’s time to say bye to your new best buds, there’s always room in any itinerary for last-day sightseeing. Consider visiting Gangaramaya Temple or taking a day trip with Intrepid’s sister company, Urban Adventures .

Gangaramaya Temple in Colombo

Farewell, Colombo

Inspired to go on this epic adventure? Check out Intrepid’s Simply Sri Lanka tour and array of other tours in Sri Lanka .

(All images taken by Ryan Bolton on Intrepid’s Simply Sri Lanka tour.)

Feeling inspired?

Bex Shapiro

Born in London and based in Toronto, Bex is happiest anywhere she can connect with interesting people over good food. She's passionate about sustainable travel and powerful storytelling, and her favourite cities are New York and Shanghai. She's also the Senior Editorial Manager at Intrepid. Follow her adventures on Twitter and Insta @BexShapiro.

Hello world!

My workspace, california road trip, explore the pacific northwest, sri lanka holiday tours and packages.

Experience the magic of Sri Lanka with our curated luxury Sri Lanka Holiday Tours and Packages that blend adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration. Traverse through lush tea plantations in the central highlands, where misty mountains and cascading waterfalls create a serene backdrop. Explore ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Sigiriya, where towering rock fortresses and sacred temples unveil the island’s rich history.

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Immerse yourself in the island’s diverse culture with visits to bustling markets, traditional dance performances, and encounters with friendly locals eager to share their stories and traditions. From the sacred city of Kandy to the colonial charm of Galle, each destination offers a unique glimpse into Sri Lanka’s vibrant tapestry.

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Embark on an enriching cultural voyage through the captivating tapestry of Sri Lanka. Our cultural tours invite you to immerse yourself in the vibrant heritage and traditions that define this island gem. Traverse ancient kingdoms such as Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, and Kandy, where age-old temples and towering stupas stand as testaments to a glorious past.

Marvel at the intricate carvings of the Dambulla Cave Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site adorned with vibrant frescoes and statues dating back centuries. Witness the sacred rituals at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, where devotees pay homage to Buddha’s sacred tooth.

Indulge your senses in the bustling markets of Colombo and Galle, where the aroma of spices fills the air and colorful textiles beckon exploration. Experience the rhythmic beats of traditional dance performances, a mesmerizing display of Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.

Throughout your journey, our knowledgeable guides will illuminate the stories and legends that have shaped Sri Lanka’s identity, providing insight into the island’s deep-rooted traditions and customs. Join us on a cultural tour and uncover the soul-stirring wonders of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.

Nature Tours in Sri Lanka – Holiday Tours

Embark on a journey of discovery amidst the natural wonders of Sri Lanka with our captivating Nature Tours. Explore the island’s diverse ecosystems, from lush rainforests to expansive national parks, teeming with exotic wildlife.

Trek through the misty trails of Horton Plains or Sinharaja Forest Reserve, where endemic flora and fauna await your discovery. Marvel at the majestic sight of elephants bathing in the rivers of Udawalawe National Park or spot elusive leopards prowling through the foliage of Yala National Park.

Unwind on pristine beaches along the southern coast or take a scenic boat ride through the mangrove forests of Madu River. Our expert guides will lead you off the beaten path to hidden gems and breathtaking viewpoints, ensuring an unforgettable experience in the heart of nature.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply seeking serenity amidst natural beauty, our Nature Tours in Sri Lanka offer the perfect escape into the wild. Book now and let the wonders of nature unfold before your eyes.

Best Beaches in Sri Lanka

Nestled along the azure shores of Sri Lanka lie some of the most picturesque beaches in the world, each offering its own slice of paradise. From the vibrant sands of Unawatuna to the tranquil stretches of Bentota, visitors are treated to a myriad of experiences.

Whether you’re seeking the thrill of surfing at Arugam Bay or the serenity of Nilaveli’s pristine shores, Sri Lanka’s beaches cater to every traveler’s desire for sun, sea, and relaxation. With their crystal-clear waters, swaying palm trees, and vibrant marine life, these coastal gems beckon visitors to indulge in endless days of blissful escape and unforgettable memories.

Heritage Tours in Sri Lanka – Holiday Tours

Embark on a captivating journey through the cultural treasures of Sri Lanka with our heritage tours. Immerse yourself in the ancient wonders of the island as you explore majestic sites like the awe-inspiring Sigiriya Rock Fortress, adorned with mesmerizing frescoes and surrounded by lush gardens.

Discover the sacred city of Anuradhapura, where towering stupas and sacred relics bear witness to a rich history spanning millennia. Wander through the atmospheric ruins of Polonnaruwa, once a flourishing royal capital, and unravel the mysteries of its ancient temples and palaces. From the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy to the colonial charm of Galle Fort, each stop on our heritage tours offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s storied past and cultural diversity. Led by expert guides, our tours promise an immersive experience that will leave you spellbound by the island’s timeless heritage.

Sri Lanka Holiday Tours Best Luxury Nature Tours and Best Cultural Tours

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60 Awesome Photos of Sri Lanka To Inspire Your Travels

Jackson Groves

Posted on Last updated: June 23, 2023

Categories SRI LANKA

I was lucky enough to spend almost a month exploring Sri Lanka with friends. These are some of my favorite Sri Lanka Photos from our trip!

We had the most epic sunset at Sigiriya Rock, which is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Sri Lanka .

What Photography Gear do I use?

Do you want to know about the cameras, lenses, and different gear I use to capture my adventures? I’ve listed my four different cameras below but you can check out all my lenses, accessories, and favorite camera backpack in my article: MY PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: WHAT’S IN MY BACKPACK

• My Main Camera: Sony A7riii
• My Drone : DJI Mavic Air2S
• My 360 Camera: Insta360 X3
• Action Camera : GoPro Hero 12

The elephant safari in Kaudulla National Park was a highlight for me. The cars sit pretty still and this mother and calf scurried in between the convoy.

Hiking to the top of Diyaluma Falls with no other tourists in sight!

The insta-famous rope swing in Dalawella Beach !

A beautiful sunset at the Movenpick in Colombo.

The Elephant Sanctuary in Pinawalla.

The sunset safari in Kaudulla was one of my favorite things to do in Sri Lanka.

Pidurangala Rock for sunrise is just across from Sigiriya Rock. Definitely, put this on your bucket list.

Sigiriya Rock explorations.

Hiking in Riverston with no other tourists around. Nature at it’s best with a great view of the knuckles mountain range.

The train from Kandy to Ella is my number one recommendation for things to do in Sri Lanka. You get to see first hand the local transportation, meet some locals and see the amazing sights out of the window. These are my favorite series of Sri Lanka Photos.

The nine-arch bridge in Ella is an incredible piece of architecture and something I will never forget.

Little Adam’s Peak hike in Ella was such an incredible sunset experience and only an hour hike.

Diyaluma Falls was 600ft high and refreshing after a one hour hike.

Enjoying the beach at Tangalle.

The owner of the rope swing in Dalawella.

Ana Palombini @labellesociety

Tuesday 3rd of September 2019

What stunning pictures guys. I am going next week to Sri Lanka with my boyfriend for the first time and seeing this post really fed my travel bug. I love your photography style and keep hoping that I will be able to take some good pictures myself. Thanks for the inspiration!

Sunday 6th of January 2019

Absolutely loving this blog post!! Thank you for your genuine recommendations, they very detailed paired with amazing pictures!

Praveen Perera

Tuesday 28th of August 2018

fantastic pictures. ! with nice write-ups.

Sunday 29th of July 2018

You are really beautiful Sri Lanka

Ranil Seneviratne

Monday 28th of May 2018

Simply amazing shots; you've captured the essence. Loved them thoroughly !

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30,489 sri lanka travel stock photos & high-res pictures, browse 30,489 sri lanka travel photos and images available, or search for sri lanka tour to find more great photos and pictures..

PHOTO TOUR SRI LANKA WITH FULL OF EXCITING

Beautiful sri lanka photography tours.

Beautiful Sri Lanka Photography Tours is a travel agency specializing in organizing captivating photo tours in Sri Lanka, filled with excitement and amazement. We also arrange regular sightseeing tours and foreign student travel programs in Sri Lanka. Each of our tours is led by an experienced Sri Lankan travel photographer, ensuring photographers, travelers, or students are in the right places at the perfect moment to capture stunning photographs. The tours are designed to include, environmental portraits, candid portraits, posed portraits, cultural portraits, and character portraits.

The tour primarily focuses on photographing stilt fishermen, indigenous people, street vendors, tea pickers, elephant mahouts, and rural villages. This tour is perfect for anyone who has a passion for photography, whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or with a small group of friends. Whether you’re a seasoned photographer or just starting out, our tour is designed to cater to all skill levels. Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to learn from a local travel photographer, who will guide you in capturing the perfect shots and uncovering the hidden gems of Sri Lanka’s cultures.

THE ADVANTAGES OF TRAVELING WITH US

Participating in a photography tour in Sri Lanka presents a wonderful opportunity to enhance your travel photography skills under the guidance of a knowledgeable local travel photographer, all while exploring a destination that has been on your bucket list for ages. Tailored specifically for photography

Enthusiasts, our tour is crafted with the purpose of helping you capture stunning images that encapsulate the essence of Sri Lanka. Choosing to travel with us offers distinct advantages that enhance your experience. Here are a few of the reasons why traveling with us will make your trip to Sri Lanka memorable.

• Arrangement Of Photoshoots: We organize captivating photoshoots featuring the Veddas indigenous people, the picturesque tradition of stilt fishermen, the majestic elephant and its mahout, serene charm of rural villages.
• Prioritize Engaging With Local People: At most photo locations we visit, we have a good connection with local people, ensuring convenient opportunities for authentic photography experiences.
• Local Photography Knowledge And Secret Photo Spots: Unveil Sri Lanka’s beauty with our local travel photographer’s insights, guiding you to secret photo spots for unforgettable photography experiences.
• Beginners Learn From Our Travel Photographer: If you’re a beginner in photography, our travel photographer offers personalized instruction, helping you develop essential skills and gain valuable insights.

PHOTOGRAPHY TOUR GUIDE IN SRI LANKA

All images on the website are the exclusive property of copyright © 2010-2024 Saman Weeratunga, and the use of any of the photos without Saman Weeratunga’s written permission is strictly prohibited. Violations will be pursued to the fullest extent allowed under the law.

TRAVELLERS TALE PHOTO STUDIO

Saman weeratunga travel photography, traveller’s tale photo studio.

Embark on a captivating journey with me as I explore continents through stunning visuals. Each photo I encounter tells a unique tale, portraying lively photographs of diverse cultures, astonishing people, ancient and modern architecture, and breathtaking landscapes. From the vibrant energy of bustling city streets to the tranquil allure of distant panoramas, immerse yourself in the exquisite beauty and boundless richness of our world through these vividly depicted scenes.

SAMAN WEERATUNGA

I am a Sri Lankan travel and portrait photographer based in Kandy, the central part of Sri Lanka. Travel and photography are my passion, and I’ve traveled to some truly remarkable countries, including Switzerland, Austria, France, Germany, Poland, the Netherlands, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Singapore, and Malaysia. Each journey has been a unique experience, filled with breathtaking sights and unforgettable moments. However, my thirst for exploration remains unquenched, and I’m constantly adding new destinations to my ever-growing list of places to visit. Whether it’s capturing amazing local portraits, the vibrant streets of a bustling city, or the serene beauty of a remote landscape, I’m always ready to pack my camera bags and set off on another unforgettable travel photo journey.

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Untouched Sri Lanka

Wild About Sri Lanka - 10 days

Tour was a nice mix of culture and nature. Guide was great dealing with some particularly challenging guests pretty much everyday while still being attentive to the rest of us. Some of the hotels were outstanding (love Jetwing) but made some of the other choices seem a little dated/lacking in comparison. Would highly recommend

SRI LANKA- GLAMOUR SRI LANKA - 10 DAYS 09 NIGHTS TOUR

It was a really amazing tour. We traveled last minute to Sri Lanka and as we just decided what we will do upon our arrival and had limited time, we were happy that Explore Vacations organized everything last minute so we could start directly the next day. We had an amazing time. We managed to see so many things during our tour and many thanks to the amazing tour guide. Coming back to Sri Lanka soon.

Dream Path Of Sri Lanka

A fabulous trip. Just the right mix of sightseeing and relaxing. My guide was excellent, adding things to the itinerary and getting to know what I liked.

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sri Lanka Splendor

Kesara and Indika, our guides, were absolutely fantastic – incredibly helpful, kind, and knowledgeable. This tour truly cover the best of what Sri Lanka has to offer. The small group is ideal, with only six of us, added to the experience immensely. The van was also comfortable and impeccably clean. From start to finish, the tour provided us with an excellent overview of the most sought-after experiences in Sri Lanka. I highly recommend go on this tour for a great experience.

Sri Lanka Uncovered

Die Beratung und Hilfestellung war super!!!

Best Touch Of Sri Lanka

We see a lot un SryLanka. Hôtels sometimes very good sometimes not! Ask before leaving if there are additionnels fees for excursions.

• €50 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

Sri Lanka for Families - 10 Days

Sri Lanka number one cold place of NuwaraEliya very beautiful and have many mounts and river .hot tea is good farms worldwide .cite name of little England given the name Britain government In Sri Lanka one of the best place for relaxing with cool weather, And Beautiful Nature, Waterfalls, Tea states and many more Sightseeing around the area, and specially the Gregory Lake gives more beauty to the NuwaraEliya

Dream Land- 09 Nights/ 10 Days

• Sightseeing

Arugam Bay surf

This trip has a fantastic itinerary for getting a really good taste of Sri Lanka. Travelling in a group of solo travellers really helped us get to know each other, and the group bonded really well. Unfortunately our trip was cut short by the covid-19 pandemic, but our tour leader did a fantastic job of keeping us informed and helping us change our travel plans. We will return to airport

Sri Lanka Highlights - 10 Days [ BUDGET " WINTER" ]

Exelent organisation we recomand this tour everyone

Sri Lanka Cultural and Natural Tour

Exclusive Tea Tour, Private Tour

It was a fantastic experience, the country, the people, their entire culture. My driver was a charming person, very friendly, fun, always available and very professional. My only complaint is in relation to the hotels, as they are of low quality, taking into account that in my reservation I had made an extra payment for better accommodation, which in fact did not happen. Everything else was incredible and I highly recommend it

Depth Touch Of Sri Lanka

Trip was a fine mixture of cultural and natural sites. People are impressively positive, always with a smiling face. Lots of fun with the guide Silva Chinthaka.

"Serenade of Sri Lanka: Nature, Culture, and Wildlife Odyssey" All inclusive

My girlfriend and I want to really thank you Thili and Pavi for this amazing trip! We had a great experience with them. Reliable and kind, you can always trust them! We’ve been traveling throughout Sri Lanka for more than 10 days and they’ve always been on time, ready to help you! We truly suggest them! ????

What people love about 10 Day Sri Lanka Tours

Very well organised with knowledgeable guide

Regions in Sri Lanka

• Yala National Park (13)

Other Regions in Sri Lanka

• Yala National Park 2 week Tours (19)
• Yala National Park 7 day Tours (16)
• Yala National Park 10 day Tours (13)
• Southern Province Sri Lanka 7 day Tours (10)
• Southern Sri Lanka 7 day Tours (10)
• Yala National Park 3 week Tours (9)
• Yala National Park 3 day Tours (7)
• Southern Province Sri Lanka 3 week Tours (5)
• Southern Sri Lanka 3 week Tours (5)
• Sri Lanka Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 2 Weeks Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 3 Day Sri Lanka Itineraries 2024/2025

International Versions

• Deutsch: 10 Tage Sri Lanka Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits Sri Lanka de 10 Jours
• Español: Circuitos por Sri Lanka de 10 Días
• Nederlands: 10-Daagse rondreis Sri Lanka

• Photography tours & Workshops 2024

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Sri lanka photo tour.

Our  Sri Lanka photo tour , is without a doubt one of our most complete experiences. According to the location of Sri Lanka, the destiny offers us a complete destination to take photographs. From incredible landscapes in the jungle or in the tea fields , social photography on its beaches with its famous stilt fishermen as well as  wildlife photography.  During our safaris here we will see from blue whales , to safaris in different national parks, inhabited by elephants, leopards, monkeys or crocodiles . Sri Lanka will offer us every day countless opportunities to take precious unrepeatable photographs in any other destination on the planet.

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Photos Sri Lanka Photo Tour

Itinerary Sri Lanka Photo Tour

Day 1 arrive in colombo.

The Sri Lanka photo tour will start at the Colombo airport, where our local guide will be waiting for us to take us to our hotel. Upon arrival at our hotel and after having rested and acclimatized, we will reach its most emblematic point, such as the Gangaramaya temple. Later, we will return to the hotel, to continue acclimatization and rest.

Day 2 Sigiriya

After breakfast, we will head towards Habarana, where we will stay tonight after visiting its incredible and historical surroundings. The first point of interest will be the Dambulla Cave Temple, or also known as the Dambulla Golden Temple. We will visit its set of caves with temples inside, decorated with paintings and statues dedicated to the life of the Buddha. The complex is 2000 years old and is considered a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. Later, we will climb the Pidurangala rock from where we will watch the sunset with views of the famous Sigiriya rock. A much easier climb, which offers us better views of the area, and which, being less visited by tourists, will allow us to enjoy nature calmly to take panoramic photographs. At the end we will return to our accommodation in Habarana.

Day 3 Polonnaruwa

Today, we will photograph the incredible surroundings of the Polonnaruwa ruins. Ancient capital of the kingdoms of Sri Lanka and in which we can visit ancient temples and palaces decorated with gigantic sculptures of the Buddha, or ruins of carved facades that now survive the jungle. Afterwards, we will leave for our first safari of the trip in the Minneriya National Park. We will be there until sunset, to photograph the ¨meetings¨ of Indian elephants that live in this park and that can reach up to more than 100 gathered, in addition to other species such as water buffalo, Pelicans or the Monitor Lizard. When the sun disappears, we will return to our hotel in Habarana to rest and prepare for the next day.

Day 4 Kandy

This day we will travel to Kandy, stopping along the way at the amazing Aluvihare rock temple in Matale. A temple surrounded by mountains and that will offer us some spectacular photographs of its architecture. Once we arrive in Kandy, known as the city of the mountains and capital of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, we will leave our things at the hotel to go visit its colonial streets, as well as approach the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya, which despite the British colonization of the island owes its name to King Wickramabahu III when it was inaugurated in 1371. Considered the best botanical garden in all of Asia, we can photograph countless plants as well as centennial trees, among which the Orchid collection and its outstanding palm tree avenues that decorate its endless paths.

Day 5 Udawattakele Forest Reserve

After breakfast, we will head to the Udawattakele Forest Reserve, located near Kandy. In addition to the three Buddhist monasteries, and their houses located in caves in the mountains of the reserve, we will walk among its forests characterized by its giant lianas where an infinity of birds and other species like macaques live, so that our possibilities of photographing will be varied. and spectacular throughout the tour. At noon, we will go to one of the most spectacular landscapes of our trip: the Adam’s Peak. Along the way we will stop at the Ramboda waterfalls, located in a unique environment and which according to the time we will try to visit from its base since it is not easily accessible. Once our session is over, we will continue to the Adam’s Peak, a conical mountain sacred to both Hindu, Buddhist and Muslim, 2243 meters high that we will ascend the next morning. During this afternoon we will look for an ideal location to photograph it at sunset with some of the many tea plantations that surround this historic place. After sunset, we will take the opportunity to go to rest early at the foot of the Adam’s Peak.

Day 6 Adam's Peak

We will wake up before sunrise, to ascend Adam’s Peak and reach the top at sunrise. The climb is safe, as it is a Hindu tradition to do this climb at night and it is perfectly conditioned with stairs to the very top. Once at the top we will wait as the dawn gives us incredible views of the island, and the shadow of the same mountain is projected on the nearby plain. We will also have the possibility to visit the temple located at the top, where a sacred relic known as the footprint of Adam is kept for the Muslim religion. Later, after having rested from our excursion we will head towards our next destination Nuwaraeliya. Along the way we will stop to photograph two of the most beautiful waterfalls in Sri Lanka: St. Claire and Devon. The first is the widest in the country, 50 meters and its two pockets of water in addition to the vegetation and nearby tea plantations will offer us wonderful views. The Devon waterfall, on the other hand, thanks to its almost 100 meters of free fall of water is one of the most impressive and where we will wait for the sunset to photograph it when its incredible landscape has the best light. Once our session is over, we will approach the nearby city of Nuwaraeliya where we will rest and prepare for the next day.

Day 7 Horton plains

Today we will get up early to visit the Horton Plains National Park, which will offer us different views from what we have seen so far on our trip in the early morning. The Plains of Horton are located on a plateau 2000 meters high and from them we can see the highest mountains on the island, as well as the incredible cliff of the End of the World 870 meters high. We can also enjoy its waterfalls and infinite landscapes on our walk through this incredible national park. At noon we will approach Nanu Oya to ride the train on the way to Ella, 2 and a half hours long and from which we will have incredible views of the landscapes of the island, its small towns, old bridges or directly photograph the local people who travels on these trains. Traveling by train in Sri Lanka is an authentic adventure that gives us unforgettable images of our visit to the interior of this wonderful island. Upon arrival at Ella, we can go to rest at the hotel to prepare for the second part of our Sri Lanka photo tour.

Today we will spend the whole day enjoying the surroundings of this small city surrounded by incredible mountains. We will get up early to visit the small mountain of Adam, from which we can photograph the incredible landscapes that surround this city as well as see one of our next stops: the Ravana waterfall. When descending, we will stop at the most famous train bridge on the island: the 9-arched bridge. An old stone bridge where the local trains still pass and we will wait for the arrival of one of them from one of the viewpoints to capture one of the most typical images of the island. We will continue our journey to photograph the Ravana waterfall, a series of 25-meter waterfalls where we can photograph it from different angles, achieving spectacular compositions or photographing the locals who visit it to cool off. We will also have the possibility of entering the magnificent Ravana Ella cave, located near the waterfall. In the afternoon, we will explore the Lipton Company’s historic tea plantations, famous on the island for being one of the first plantations to introduce this plant on the island and which has now become one of the largest producers in the world. Touring their fields, we will be able to photograph the local workers collecting their leaves and at dusk we will approach the Lipton seat, the place from where Thomas Lipton, founder of the company, observed his plantations and from where we will have spectacular views of these landscapes. At the end, we will return to Ella for dinner and if the forces accompany walking around the city to take photographs of the nightlife and its most emblematic buildings.

Day 9 Yala National Park

We will get up early to continue our journey to the south of the island, where we will stop at the Buduruwagala temple, a quite special temple and that its name indicates what we will find Budu (Buddha), ruva (image), gala (stone) = Buduruwagala, that is, an image of the Buddha sculpted in stone. The temple is dated more than 1000 years old, and although the site is not large, its sculptures will surprise us and will serve as a rest on our route to our next destination: Yala National Park. This National park is the one with the largest number of Ceylon leopard and Indian elephants, so the possibilities of photographing the latter are almost guaranteed. In addition to these two spectacular species, we will be able to photograph countless animals of all kinds: from crocodiles to wild boars, pelicans, the bear bear, turtles, cobras and vipers and countless water birds. At the end of our sunset safari, we will go to rest at our hotel near the Yala reserve.

Day 10 Mirissa

In the morning we will approach the Yala National Park reserve as early as possible, to continue contemplating its fauna in a different area than the one from the previous day. The reserve is divided into three blocks due to its large size, so today it will give us the feeling of visiting a different reserve. At noon we will arrive at the coastal area of ​​Sri Lanka, we will leave behind its jungles and mountains to know its paradisiacal beaches where in addition to being able to take incredible photographs of its landscapes, we will have the possibility of capturing the famous stilt fishermen who crowd its coasts following the ancestral customs of this island. After 10 days on the route in this Sri Lanka photo tour, we will appreciate being able to rest watching the sunset from one of the beaches that we will visit during the day until we reach the hotel in Myrissa that will be our base for the next 2 nights, and that located on the beach will be a perfect place to photograph both at dusk and dawn without moving much.

Day 11 Mirissa

We will get up early to approach the beach to photograph the sunrise from the incredible beach of Mirissa. Its beaches surrounded by jungle and its rocks will allow us to make dream compositions in this paradise. When we finish, we will have breakfast and we will set off for a sea route in search of the blue whale, the largest animal in the world, and that we can photograph on our trip. In addition we will also have the possibility of catching other species such as dolphins or flying fish, so our boat trip will be an excellent time to enjoy the marine fauna that lives near the shores of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon, and after having rested from our boat trip, we will return to the beach to look for new locations and to photograph the long-legged fishermen again, who will wait for the sunset like us to finish the day and return to our rooms.

Day 12 Galle

In the morning we will have the opportunity to photograph another beautiful sunrise on the beach with the fishermen, of whom we will say goodbye after breakfast to start our trip to Galle. This city is full of history, since from 1500 it was colonized by Portuguese and later it was also passed by Dutch and English, so its architecture will remind us of old European cities that we can photograph throughout the morning while walking and photographing its fort and its old town. After eating we will go to a turtle hatchery, on a more than photographic visit where we can collaborate in the conservation of this species and see how the association takes care of the eggs and the turtle hatchlings before releasing them to the sea, trying to preserve them from poaching and the black market for eggs. In the afternoon we will approach Unawatuna beach where we will look for locations for our session at sunset.

Day 13 Bentota

We will get up early to approach the Galle lighthouse, from where we can photograph this beautiful lighthouse with the first light of day. After having breakfast and recharging our strength, we headed to the last safari of our trip, this time by boat through the mangroves of the Madu river. We will visit its narrow mangroves where we will have the perfect opportunity to photograph crocodiles, wild boars or snakes, both water and land, as well as cormorants and pelicans among other species. We will also arrive on our tour to an ancient Buddhist monastery on one of the islands that form in this river. This last safari will complete all the previous ones, offering us impressive photographs of the mangroves and their fauna. In the afternoon we will head north to the beaches of Hikkaduwa and Bentota, where we will rest and relax before our last photo shoot at sunset on these paradisiacal beaches.

Day 14 End of the trip

On our last day of the trip, we will transfer to the Colombo airport, where we will finish this incredible Sri Lanka photo tour.

Map Sri Lanka Photo Tour

More info about travel to Sri Lanka

Departure & Return Location

Colombo Airport, Sri Lanka

Price Includes

• Accommodation in twin rooms with private bathroom
• Entrances fees to National Parks
• All transportation in destination location
• All excursions mentioned in the itinerary
• Photographer Guide
• Local guide(s)
• Basic travel insurance

Price Excludes

• Flights to & from Colombo
• Any Private Expenses including meals
• Visa, check if you need it
• Anything not mention in "Price includes"

Complementaries

• DSLR or mirrorless camera, tripod and remote shutter
• Wide angle lens (14-24mm as example)
• Standard lens (24-70mm as example)
• Telephoto lens (70-200mm as example)

Photographic lessons

• Composition
• Digital Workflow
• Panoramic Photography
• Depth of Field calculation
• Focal Blending
• Blue Hour Photography
• Night photography
• Filters, Neutral Density and Neutral Density Grads

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Unwind on Beautiful Beaches

Relax and soak up the sun on some of Sri Lanka's most stunning beaches, from secluded coves to lively beach towns.

Colonial Heritage

Sri Lanka, historically known as “Ceylon”, is called the pearl of the Indian Ocean by everyone who visits and for good reason. It truly is a paradise island boasting seven world heritage sites, miles of golden sandy beaches, wildlife and game parks, and mountainous tea plantations.

Discover Sri Lanka's Culture

Immerse yourself in Sri Lanka's rich history and culture, including visits to ancient temples, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and traditional villages.

Wildlife Safari

Get up close and personal with Sri Lanka's incredible wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and exotic bird species, on safari tours and nature walks.

Relax in Nature

Unwind in Sri Lanka's beautiful natural settings, including tranquil gardens, national parks, and waterfalls.

Adventure Activities

Get your adrenaline pumping with a range of adventure activities, including whitewater rafting, surfing, and rock climbing.

Contact Information

Location: No. 344 Thambalawewa, Jayanthipura, Polonnaruwan, Sri Lanka.

Phone: +94 771 675 569 (Whatsapp)

Email: [email protected]

We Assist Travel For Sri Lanka

We specialized in providing Medical, Travel & Legal Assistance for Foreign Tourist during their visit to Sri Lanka.

BONJOUR SRI LANKA TOURS

We are delighted to have you here and to introduce you to our travel and tourism company. Our aim is to provide you with a unique and unforgettable experience in Sri Lanka, a land of beauty, diversity, and culture.

Unforgettable Sri Lanka experience!

Tour packages

At Bonjour Sri Lanka Tours, we offer a wide range of tour packages to suit every traveler's interests and preferences. Our packages are designed to provide you with a hassle-free and unforgettable experience, allowing you to make the most of your time in Sri Lanka.

Our tour packages include accommodation, transportation, and guided tours, making it easy for you to explore the best of Sri Lanka without any worries. We also offer customizable packages, allowing you to tailor your trip to your specific needs and interests.

What People Says About Us

I recently took a tour with Bonjour Sri Lanka Tours and it exceeded all my expectations. From start to finish, the team was incredibly professional, friendly and accommodating. The accommodation was excellent, and the transportat...

"I recently had the pleasure of booking a tour with Bonjour Sri Lanka Tours, and I have to say that it was an unforgettable experience. From the moment I arrived in Sri Lanka, the team was extremely welcoming and made sure that al...

Photos Moment By Moment

I rode the $1 coastal train in Sri Lanka from Bentota to Colombo. There was a 2-hour delay, and I didn't have a seat on board, but I'd do it again in a heartbeat.

• I recently went on a solo trip to Sri Lanka and rode its famed coastal rail.
• The rail had stunning views of honey-colored beaches and the Indian Ocean.
• I had to sit on my suitcase for the entire trip, but the locals I met along the way made it worth it.

Sri Lanka has been on my must-visit list for years. The teardrop-shaped island in South Asia is known for its stunning beaches, lush jungles, and foliage-covered mountains.

So right after I found out I had two vacation days that needed to be used up before the end of the month, I got online and booked a flight to the capital, Colombo , from Singapore, where I'm based. The flight is just under five hours.

After spending a night in Colombo, I made my way to Kollupitiya station and headed south to Bentota, a resort town. I spent two days there enjoying the honey-colored beach and watching surfers ride the waves at sunset. My plans for the trip to Sri Lanka involved little more than this, followed by a ride on the coastal train when it was time to head back north.

The journey from Bentota to Colombo by car was almost a two-hour-long journey. And by train, with its multiple stops along the way, it would take nearly an hour longer. But Sri Lanka's coastal train is famed as one of the most scenic in Asia, so I had to try it.

Take a look at what it's like to ride Sri Lanka's coastal train.

My journey started in Aluthgama, a small seaside town that's 40 miles south of Colombo.

Aluthgama's train station is located right across the bridge that connects the town with Bentota. While Bentota does have its own station, many people choose to come to the one in Aluthgama as it's near several resorts and hostels.

Sri Lanka's railway extends to most parts of the country, and one of its most famous is the coastal rail, which has views of its southern coast and the Indian Ocean. In total, the rail stretches almost 970 miles. Other routes take as long as eight to 10 hours and pass by Sri Lanka's picturesque tea plantations and sprawling rice fields.

I met a local tuk-tuk driver, Suresh, who offered to take me to Aluthgama station, around 15 minutes from Bentota. Suresh, with his thick, curly hair and sporty sunglasses, spotted me walking along a busy street, looking for a restaurant . He ended up being my guide for a few hours.

Getting around by tuk-tuk — a motorized rickshaw popular in Sri Lanka and other Asian countries like Thailand and Cambodia — was the best form of transportation for a budget traveler like me, as Suresh charged me just 200 Sri Lanka rupees or 65 cents for a ride.

Like many rail stations in Sri Lanka, the one in Aluthgama was bare and resembled a shed.

It was dry season in Sri Lanka, so the temperature hovered at 95 degrees Fahrenheit that day. The sun was beating down on the dusty, sandy streets. It was so hot that several locals took shelter from the sweltering sun at the foot of the station.

The station was covered in a turmeric shade of yellow, with brightly-colored portraits of locals painted on the walls of the stairs that led to the ticket office. The train tracks, which sliced through the thick jungle and towering palm trees, were built right next to a soccer field and public library.

Compared to other trains I have taken in Asia — including a 13-hour train through Thailand and a two-hour long trip on the Laos-China rail — the station felt dated. Yet I appreciated the vintage charm this helped to provide.

As I was traveling without a set schedule, I bought a ticket at the station itself.

At the time, I didn't realize passengers could purchase a ticket in advance. But many locals appeared to buy their tickets right before the train arrived. I arrived at the station at 3 p.m. and learned the counter only opened 30 minutes later. I ended up waiting for an hour.

First, I met Manvik, a local business owner, at the station. Manvik was in his 40s, bald, and dressed in a short-sleeved shirt paired with slacks. As a solo traveler, I'm often wary of overly friendly people. But I quickly warmed up to Manvik, who invited me to his seafood restaurant the next time I visited Sri Lanka.

While waiting for the counter to open, I got into a conversation with Kalana, a student who was on his way home. He told me he majored in management at a college in Galle, a city on the southwestern tip of Sri Lanka. Kalana, with his boyish smile and dark hair, said he made the commute every day and spotted a handful of tourists on it daily.

I eventually made a beeline for the counter and snagged a second-class ticket to Colombo Fort for 300 rupees, or less than a dollar. In hindsight, this was the best — and cheapest — way to travel across the country, as a first-class train reservation online for the same route cost 900 rupees, and hailing a car on the local app costs 10 times as much.

When I got on the first car of the train, it was already chock full of passengers.

The majority of the passengers appeared to be locals, but there were a handful of tourists traveling to Colombo too. The train car was fitted with two rows of black leather seats on each side and a fairly spacious aisle. It was bare-bones, with overhead lights and one tiny fan doing little to quell the heat inside the train.

Right before the train left, several vendors were busy peddling paruppu vadai, a popular local snack that's deep-fried and prepared with spices like red and green chilies, fennel, and cumin. The fatty, oily aroma wafted in the air through the crowded car. Other vendors were selling sodas and sliced tropical fruits like guava and mango.

I met a family of three from Barcelona who had been traveling in Sri Lanka for three weeks. They said that they got around the country only by train and that Colombo was their last stop. We all posted up at the narrow entrance of the car, cramped by the door, tightly holding our belongings.

The train ended up leaving at around 4.50 p.m., which meant I had been waiting for almost two hours. But I was just thankful it wasn't canceled, like the trains in Europe I traveled on in February.

I spent most of the ride sitting on my suitcase.

I travel light whenever I'm in Asia, so I flew to Sri Lanka with just a backpack and a 15-pound suitcase. Packing light worked in my favor as it made the trip more comfortable.

I couldn't get a seat, so I simply sat on my suitcase, grabbed whatever I could, and held on. It was a bumpy ride, with one woman even falling on me, almost thrusting me and my bags toward the open door. Nonetheless, I found being by the door the best seat on the train, as the breeze from the sea felt refreshing.

The views of the coast were incredible.

I was right at the mouth of the door and had a front-row view of the coast and the sea. The rumbling of the train and the swooshing of the powerful waves was the perfect soundtrack to the scenic ride.

It was dusk, and the sun's bright orange hue lit up the sparkling, metallic blue waters. The train also passed several villages where people lived in tin-roofed homes on the beach. Nearing Colombo, the train was so close to the water that I could see waves crashing onto the sand.

The ride went by much faster than I had anticipated. In no time, I reached Colombo Fort.

The train arrived earlier than scheduled, at around 6.45 p.m. Colombo Fort is one of the largest rail stations in Sri Lanka. Built in 1908, over 200,000 passengers travel through the station every day. Several screens displayed the scheduled routes — something that I hadn't seen in the dozen other train stations I passed along the way.

It was bustling, with hundred of passengers getting on and off the trains and staff loading them with several carts of food. Still, it felt calm and far from the rush and chaos I had experienced in Bangkok's main station a few years back.

I've traveled on trains in 8 countries so far, and the coastal rail in Sri Lanka has got to be my favorite.

While my trip to Sri Lanka was last-minute, it turned out to be a memorable one. Not only were the views from the rail spectacular, but the locals were incredibly helpful and welcoming too. And while I've had challenges traveling solo to countries for the first time in the past, in Sri Lanka, it felt easy. It made traveling feel adventurous but safe at the same time.

I'm already planning my next trip to Sri Lanka at the end of the year, and I can't wait to go on one from Kandy to Ella , which passes through the country's central highlands. I'd be happy to take that same ride again as well.

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Xscape and SWV Announce Co-Headlining Queens of R&B Tour with Special Guests Mýa, Total and 702 (Exclusive)

The highly anticipated tour will entertain audiences across 30 cities nationwide

Dave Quinn is a Senior Editor for PEOPLE. He has been working at the brand since 2016, and is the author of the No. 1 New York Times best-selling book, Not All Diamonds and Rosé: The Inside Story of the Real Housewives from the People Who Lived It.

Derek Blanks with crowdMGMT 

Xscape and SWV are hitting the road together!

The legendary groups are combining their talents for The Queens of R&B Tour, a new co-headling concert that will hit 30 cities across the country this summer.

PEOPLE can exclusively reveal that fellow greats MÝA , Total, and 702 will join the lineup as supporting acts.

News of the tour dropped Monday on Sherri Shepherd's self-titled talk show, Sherri. It came after a hilarious video went viral showing Xscape (featuring Kandi Burruss , Tameka “Tiny” Harris and Tamika Scott ) and SWV ( Cheryl “Coko” Gamble , Tamara “Taj” George and Leanne “Lelee” Lyons ) in a makeshift therapy session with television personality Mona Scott-Young.

Scott-Young's Monami Entertainment will produce the tour along with Live Nation.

The tour will kick off on June 27 in Concord, California, at the Toyota Pavilion. Among the 30 stops will be a prestigious venues such as Madison Square Garden in New York City and the Kia Forum in Los Angeles.

Fans will remember that Xscape and SWV last collaborated on a 2023 Bravo series called SWV & XSCAPE: The Queens of R&B , which followed the female musicians — including Scott's sister LaTocha Scott-Bivens) as they attempted to get this tour off the ground. But internal conflicts and a debate over which group would headline prevented the tour from ever manifesting.

Now, the Queens of R&B Tour is finally happening — something the press release calls "a testament to the power of what can be accomplished when women come together with respect, admiration and undeniable talent," as well as "a celebration of passion, power, resilience and unstoppable ability to exceed expectations."

"I’m incredibly honored to be part of this HERstory making moment in R&B music, and to announce this tour during Women’s History Month makes it much more impactful," Scott-Young, 57, tells PEOPLE. "What started as a television series turned into something much greater and I’m proud to be producing this tour, alongside Live Nation, as Xscape and SWV, along with incredible talents 702, TOTAL and MYA, embark on this journey together."

"These ladies have all given their all to R&B music, despite experiencing the ups and downs of life and career, and it is with great pride and excitement that we bring this highly anticipated concert experience to the fans," she added.

Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories. 

Tickets for The Queens of R&B tour go on sale Tuesday, March 26 with a Citi presale. Additional presales will run throughout the week ahead of the general on sale staring March 29 (at 10 a.m. local time) on Ticketmaster.

XSCAPE have sold more than 9 million records worldwide, and notched six top-10 songs hitting the Billboard 100. SWV (Sisters With Voices) have sold more than 30 million records worldwide and been nominated for three Grammy Awards.

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The Dali was just starting a 27-day voyage.

The ship had spent two days in Baltimore’s port before setting off.

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By Claire Moses and Jenny Gross

• March 26, 2024 Updated 1:50 p.m. ET

The Dali was less than 30 minutes into its planned 27-day journey when the ship ran into the Francis Scott Key Bridge on Tuesday.

The ship, which was sailing under the Singaporean flag, was on its way to Sri Lanka and was supposed to arrive there on April 22, according to VesselFinder, a ship tracking website.

The Dali, which is nearly 1,000 feet long, left the Baltimore port around 1 a.m. Eastern on Tuesday. The ship had two pilots onboard, according to a statement by its owners, Grace Ocean Investment. There were 22 crew members on board, the Maritime & Port Authority of Singapore said in a statement. There were no reports of any injuries, Grace Ocean said.

Before heading off on its voyage, the Dali had returned to the United States from Panama on March 19, harboring in New York. It then arrived on Saturday in Baltimore, where it spent two days in the port.

Maersk, the shipping giant, said in a statement on Tuesday that it had chartered the vessel, which was carrying Maersk cargo. No Maersk crew and personnel were onboard, the statement said, adding that the company was monitoring the investigations being carried out by the authorities and by Synergy Group, the company that was operating the vessel.

“We are horrified by what has happened in Baltimore, and our thoughts are with all of those affected,” the Maersk statement said.

The Dali was built in 2015 by the South Korea-based Hyundai Heavy Industries. The following year, the ship was involved in a minor incident when it hit a stone wall at the port of Antwerp . The Dali sustained damage at the time, but no one was injured.

Claire Moses is a reporter for the Express desk in London. More about Claire Moses

Jenny Gross is a reporter for The Times in London covering breaking news and other topics. More about Jenny Gross

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Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission issues travel documents for Rajiv Gandhi assassination case convicts

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu government on Tuesday informed the Madras High Court that the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission has issued temporary travel documents to the three released convicts in the former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi assassination case, and they would be deported to their home country as soon as the Government of India clears them for travel.

Additional Public Prosecutor R Muniapparaj made the submission before a division bench of Justices R Suresh Kumar and K Kumaresh Babu when a petition filed by Murugan came up for hearing. He had sought a direction to the Tamil Nadu Rehabilitation Director to issue him a duly authorised photo identity card to apply for travel documents.

Muniapparaj produced a letter written to the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) on the matter by the Public department. According to the letter, the Sri Lankan Deputy High Commission issued temporary travel documents valid till September 22, 2024 to the three Sri Lankan nationals.

The Additional PP stated that as soon as the FRRO issues the necessary orders, the three men will be deported to Sri Lanka. Since the travel documents were issued, the question of issuing a photo identity card did not arise, he told the bench. The bench disposed of the petition since no further order was required on the matter since the travel documents had been issued.

At present, the three convicts have been held at the high security foreigners detention centre in Tiruchy. 

Santhan had died waiting for clearance

Santhan, one of the released convicts, recently died of liver-related complications as necessary clearance was being processed for his travel back to Sri Lanka as he had requested. His body was flown to the island country.

Court questions delay in deportation

The Supreme Court, on November 11, 2022, ordered the release of six persons convicted for assassinating the former prime minister -- Nalini, her husband Murugan @ Sriharan, Ravichandran, Santhan, Jeyakumar and Robert Payas – after they had been in prison for a period of over three decades.

Of them, Murugan, Santhan, Robert Payas and Jeyakumar, who are Sri Lankan nationals, have since been detained at the special camp at the Central Prison, Tiruchy.

Santhan recently died of liver-related complications even as necessary clearance was being processed for his travel back to Sri Lanka as he had requested. His body was later flown to the island country.

After his death, the Madras High Court questioned the reason for the delay in his deportation. Later, the Tamil Nadu government took steps from its end to deport Murugan, Robert Payas and Jeyakumar.

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March 26, 2024 - Baltimore Key Bridge collapses after ship collision

By Helen Regan , Kathleen Magramo , Antoinette Radford, Alisha Ebrahimji , Maureen Chowdhury , Rachel Ramirez , Elise Hammond , Aditi Sangal , Tori B. Powell , Piper Hudspeth Blackburn and Kathleen Magramo , CNN

Our live coverage of the Baltimore bridge collapse has moved here .

Crew member on DALI said everyone on board was safe hours after bridge collapse, official says

From CNN’s Amy Simonson

A crew member on the DALI cargo ship sent a message hours after the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed Tuesday saying everybody on board was safe, according to Apostleship of the Sea director Andy Middleton.

Middleton, who spent time with the captain of the DALI Monday, told CNN’s Laura Coates he reached out to a crew member after hearing about the incident Tuesday morning. 

He said there were 22 members aboard the ship from India who were setting sail earlier Tuesday morning and were heading toward Sri Lanka.

“I was able to reach out to a crew member very early this morning around 5:30 (a.m. ET) or 6 (a.m. ET) and get a message to them asking if they were OK,” he said. “That crew member responded within just a few minutes advising that the crew was safe, and everybody that [was] on board was safe.”

Middleton was told by the ship's captain Monday that the vessel was going to take a longer route to avoid risks along the Yemen coast.

“When I was out with the captain yesterday, we were talking while we were driving, and he advised that they were sailing down and around the tip of South Africa in order to avoid the incidents that are going on off the Yemen coast, and it was a safer way to go,” he said.

Middleton said the  Apostleship of the Sea  is a ministry to seafarers with members that spend time in the port and on the vessels as a friendly face to the seafarers that visit the Port of Baltimore, “taking care of their needs to make sure that they're reminded of their God-given human dignity when they're here in Baltimore.”

Search operation ends in "heartbreaking conclusion," Maryland governor says. Here's the latest

From CNN staff

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning. The collapse came after a 984-foot cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore told reporters Tuesday evening it's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day."

Late Tuesday, it was discovered that two of the construction workers who went missing after the bridge collapsed were from Guatemala , the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said late Tuesday.

Here's what you should know to get up to speed:

• The victims: Eight people were on the bridge  when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and was later  discharged , fire official and the medical center said.
• The incident: Video shows the moment the entire bridge structure falls into the water, as the ship hits one of the bridge's pillars. CNN analysis shows that the  ships lights flickered  and it veered off course before it hit the bridge. Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said the crew on the ship were able to issue a "mayday" before colliding into the bridge, which allowed the authorities to stop incoming traffic from going onto the bridge.
• Response efforts: Earlier, dive teams from various state and local agencies were brought in to assist in search-and-rescue operations, according to Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr.. The mission started with 50 personnel and continued to grow before the Coast Guard announced Tuesday evening that it was suspending its active search-and-rescue operation and transitioning to a "different phase."
• The investigation: Authorities are still working to establish exactly how the crash occurred. The National Transportation Safety Board will look into  how the bridge was built  and investigate the structure itself. It will "take time to dig through" whether the bridge had ever been  flagged for any safety deficiencies , NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy said.
• Rebuilding the bridge: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen said the path to rebuilding the bridge will be "long and expensive." Senior White House adviser Tom Perez told reporters Tuesday “it’s too early” to tell how long it will take to rebuild the bridge. President Joe Biden said Tuesday he wants the federal government to bear the full cost of rebuilding the collapsed bridge, noting that it will not wait for the company who owns the container ship DALI to shoulder the costs. Funding could come from the Federal Highway Administration as well as the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, but it may require additional funding from Congress.

2 of the missing construction workers from bridge collapse were from Guatemala, foreign ministry says

From CNN’s Allison Gordon, Flora Charner and Amy Simonson

Two of the construction workers missing from the bridge collapse in Baltimore were from Guatemala, the country's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement late Tuesday.

Those missing included a 26-year-old originally from San Luis, Petén. The other is a 35-year-old from Camotán, Chiquimula, the statement said.

The ministry said both were part of a work team “repairing the asphalt on the bridge at the time of the accident.”

The statement did not name the two people missing, but it said the country’s consul general in Maryland “went to the area where the families of those affected are located,” where he hopes to be able to meet with the brothers of both missing people.

The consulate   also issued a statement Tuesday saying its consul general in Maryland "remains in contact with local authorities," and also confirmed that two of those missing "were of Guatemalan origin.”

Six people, who were believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead after Baltimore's Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday morning when a cargo ship hit the bridge's pillar.

State and federal officials have not released information about the identities of any of the six missing workers.

Underwater mapping of bridge collapse area to begin Wednesday, Baltimore fire chief says

From CNN's Jennifer Henderson

Search operations near the Key Bridge collapse have shut down for the night due to dangerous conditions, but the process of underwater mapping with many local, state and federal dive teams will begin Wednesday, Baltimore City Fire Chief James Wallace told CNN’s Anderson Cooper Tuesday night.

Wallace said the portion of the Patapsco River is “tidal influenced, so it goes through tide cycles just like the open waters of the Chesapeake Bay does.”

The water depths in the area under the bridge vary from 40 feet to more than 60 feet, Wallace said. The deeper the divers go, the colder the temperatures they encounter, and the visibility is zero, he added.

 Wallace said when crews arrived Tuesday morning, the surface water temperatures of the Patapsco River were about 47 degrees with an air temperature of 44-45 degrees.

Here's what you should know about the historic Francis Scott Key Bridge

The Francis Scott Key Bridge collapsed early Tuesday after a massive container ship lost power and crashed into the iconic Baltimore bridge, sending people and vehicles into the frigid Patapsco River.

Six people, believed to be part of a road construction crew, are presumed dead and the Coast Guard has ended its active search and rescue mission.

Here's what you should know about the historic bridge:

• How old?: The Francis Scott Key Bridge, also referred to as just the Key Bridge, opened to traffic in March 1977 and is the final link in the Baltimore Beltway, according to the Maryland Transportation Authority (MDTA.) It crosses over the 50-foot-deep Patapsco River, where former US attorney Francis Scott Key found inspiration to write the lyrics to the Star Spangled Banner, the MDTA says.
• How long?: The bridge was 1.6 miles long when standing, MDTA reports.
• Traffic volume: More than 30,000 people commuted daily on the bridge, according to Maryland Gov. Wes Moore.
• How much did it cost?: The bridge cost $60.3 million to build, MDTA says. Since its collapse, President Joe Biden said he’s committed to helping rebuild the bridge as soon as possible.
• About the port: Baltimore ranks as the ninth biggest US port for international cargo. It handled a record 52.3 million tons, valued at $80.8 billion, in 2023. According to the Maryland state government, the port supports 15,330 direct jobs and 139,180 jobs in related services.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. Dali is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The ship is about 984 feet long , according to MarineTraffic data. That’s the length of almost three football fields.

Baltimore woman says bridge collapse was "like a piece of family dissolved"

From CNN's Kit Maher

For longtime Baltimore resident, Ceely, who opted not to share her last name, seeing footage of the Francis Scott Key Bridge collapse  Tuesday was deeply personal.

“I was very heavy-hearted,” Ceely told CNN. “Very tearful, thinking about the families whose loved ones may be in the water and just remembering when the bridge was constructed, and it was just like a piece of family dissolved.”

Ceely was at a prayer group Tuesday morning when she saw the news. She recalled being afraid when she first crossed the bridge while in Ford Maverick in 1975, but grew to like it because it saved time on the road.

“It was a main artery just like a blood line. It was a main artery to the other side of town. It was awesome. It beat going through the city all the time,” she said.

Elder Rashad A. Singletary , a senior pastor who led Tuesday night’s vigil at Mt. Olive Baptist Church told CNN that many church members watched the bridge's construction.

"It’s a part of the community. A lot of our individuals in our congregation drive that bridge to go to work, and so now it’s really a life changing moment,” he said.

"Heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," Maryland governor says as Coast Guard ended search operation

From CNN's Aditi Sangal

More than 18 hours after the collapse of the Baltimore bridge, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore said it was a heartbreaking conclusion after the Coast Guard ended the search-and-rescue operation for the six people who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

It's a "really heartbreaking conclusion to a challenging day," he said.

"We put every single asset possible — air, land and sea" to find the missing people, he told reporters on Tuesday evening. "While even though we're moving on now to a recovery mission, we're still fully committed to making sure that we're going to use every single asset to now bring a sense of closure to the families," the governor added.

6 people presumed dead after Baltimore bridge collapse, Coast Guard says. Here's what we know

As the sun sets in Baltimore, six people are presumed dead after a major bridge collapsed overnight Tuesday, according to the Coast Guard. The Francis Scott Key Bridge came down around 1:30 a.m. ET after a cargo ship collided with it.

The Coast Guard said it has ended its active search-and-rescue operation for the missing construction workers who were on the bridge when it collapsed.

• What we know: Eight people were on the bridge when it fell, according to officials. At least two people were rescued — one was taken to the hospital and has been discharged . The Coast Guard has been searching for six other people. But, around 7:30 p.m. ET, the Coast Guard said it has transitioned to a “different phase” of operation, now it did “not believe we are going to find any of these individuals alive,” Rear Adm. Shannon Gilreath said.
• About the ship: The bridge collapsed after a container vessel called Dali collided with one of its supports. The vessel is operated by Singapore-based Synergy Group but had been chartered to carry cargo by Danish shipping giant Maersk . The US Embassy in Singapore has been in contact with the country’s Maritime and Port Authority, a State Department spokesperson said.
• The investigation: The National Transportation Safety Board is leading the investigation into the collapse. A team of 24 experts will dig into nautical operations, vessel operations, safety history records, owners, operators, company policy and any safety management systems or programs, said NTSB Chair Jennifer Homendy. A voyage data recorder will be critical to the investigation, she added. 
• Vehicles on the bridge: Officials are also working to verify the numbers of how many cars and people were on the bridge, Homendy said. Gov. Wes Moore said the quick work of authorities in closing the bridge had saved lives . Radio traffic captured how authorities stopped traffic and worked to clear the bridge seconds before the impact . Maryland State Police Secretary Col. Roland L. Butler Jr. said there is a “ distinct possibility ” more vehicles were on the bridge, but authorities have not found any evidence to support that.
• Looking ahead: NTSB will look into how the bridge was built and investigate the structure itself, including if it was flagged for any safety deficiencies , Homendy said. The federal government has also directed its resources to help with search and rescue, to reopen the port and rebuild the bridge, Vice President Kamala Harris said . Earlier, President Joe Biden said t he federal government will pay to fix the bridge.
• The economy: Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg warned the collapse will have a serious impact on supply chains . Until the channel is reopened, ships will likely already be changing course for other East Coast ports. Ocean carriers are already being diverted from the Port of Baltimore, where the bridge collapsed, to the Port of Virginia to “keep trade moving."

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The landmark Kirtland Temple reopens for public tours: See the first photos

Latter-day saint historian praises community of christ for more than a century of preservation of the sacred site: ‘this is the original place. this literally is that place where the savior appeared’.

By Tad Walch

KIRTLAND, Ohio — Free public tours began Monday morning at the reopening of the landmark Kirtland Temple, one of the most revered sites in the joint histories of the Community of Christ and The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

It is considered sacred by those churches and others as the place where Joseph Smith said the resurrected Jesus Christ appeared in 1836 to accept it as his house on earth.

The Kirtland Temple was the first of hundreds for the temple-centered Latter-day Saints. The Community of Christ maintained it for more than 140 years and successfully petitioned to have it added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 as “the only temple still standing which was built under the leadership of Joseph Smith.”

Latter-day Saint missionaries freshly trained in the temple’s history began hosting free public tours at 10 a.m. The morning included regular expressions of gratitude for the Community of Christ, which preserved the Kirtland Temple for more than 140 years until it transferred the site and other properties to the Church of Jesus Christ three weeks ago.

The first visitors began to arrive an hour before the first tour at the Visitors’ Center, the other property that changed hands on March 5.

Most visitors will notice few changes, said Ben Pykles, director of the Historic Sites Division that prepared the temple for reopening after the transfer.

Workers installed temporary signs consistent with those at other historic sites of the Church of Jesus Christ.

“Permanent signs are months away,” he said. “The furnishing is mostly exactly the same. A few chairs have been added in anticipation of increased visitors.”

Tours are kept to a maximum of 25 people, including the missionary hosts, similar to the number permitted by the Community of Christ due to the structural nature of the third floor.

“We did some structural calculations just to make sure that we can have that many people up there,” Pykles said.

Today, the Church of Jesus Christ has 189 operating temples. Plans have been announced that will bring that number to 335.

Much of the temple is original, including the floors and the famed, ornate pulpits on each end of the long, first-floor hall. The Community of Christ’s longstanding efforts to preserve the Kirtland Temple make it rare among sites in Christianity heralded as places visited by Jesus Christ, said Keith Erekson, director of Historical Outreach and Research for the Latter-day Saints.

Christian sites in Bethlehem and Jerusalem, such as one believed to be the possible site of Golgotha, where Christ was crucified, are based on tradition, he said. Additionally, layers of buildings have been built on top of many of those sites, so that the place visited no longer is the original.

The Kirtland Temple is different, despite the fact that early church members were forced, as one leader said, to forsake their temple when they left Kirtland due to persecution, and it had a messy history until the Reorganized Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints obtained ownership through a series of events in the later stages of the 19th century. The Reorganized Church changed its name to the Community of Christ in 2001 .

“The Community of Christ has preserved this,” Erekson said. “Many places in that room, it’s the original floor. The choir seats in the corners are original. The seats in the center where visitors sit have been replaced. They replaced the windows in the 1950s, but we purchased all the original windows; they’ve been in storage, so they’re around. There’s some on display.

“This is the original place. A monument wasn’t built on top, or a basilica. This literally is that place where the Savior appeared and all those other things happened.”

The Community of Christ also transferred other properties historically significant to both churches in Nauvoo, Illinois.

The transfer was difficult for Community of Christ leaders and members. The Church of Jesus Christ assumed the costs of preservation and provided necessary funding for endowments that support Community of Christ mission priorities around the world, President Stephen M. Veazey said.

The two churches share the same first 14 years of history from 1830 to 1844, when Joseph Smith was murdered. He announced in 1833 that the church had been commanded to build a House of the Lord. When he dedicated the completed building on March 27, 1836, it bore the phrase “House of the Lord” and he asked the Lord to accept it.

The Latter-day Saints had sacrificed money, time and possessions to build it. Some were tasked with arming themselves and guarding the temple against marauders at night.

“For thou knowest that we have done this work through great tribulation; and out of our poverty we have given of our substance to build a house to thy name, that the Son of Man might have a place to manifest himself to his people,” he prayed. The dedicatory prayer is canonized in Latter-day Saint scripture as Section 109 of the Doctrine & Covenants.

Seven days after the dedication, he and Oliver Cowdery reported that Jesus Christ appeared to them.

“I have accepted this house, and my name shall be here; and I will manifest myself to my people in mercy in this house,” he told them, as recorded in D&C 110 .

The two church leaders said Moses, Elias and Elijah then appeared to them and provided the spiritual priesthood keys that expanded Latter-day Saint understanding of temple worship and ordinances. The restored temple ordinances of baptism, endowment and sealing would become available in the Nauvoo Temple in Illinois. Portions of that temple were completed and in operation before Joseph Smith’s death, but it was destroyed by arson and a tornado after the Church of Jesus Christ began its move west to Utah.

No reservations are necessary to tour the temple. Tours last one hour. Tours are limited to 25 people, including the host missionary couple. They begin every half hour Mondays through Saturdays at 10 a.m. The first tour on Sundays is at 1 p.m. The final tour every day begins at 4 p.m.

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