Overview

Discover the many faces of Sri Lanka on an unforgettable 11-day journey through ancient kingdoms, misty tea country, abundant wildlife and the beautiful southern coast.

From Colombo, journey into the Cultural Triangle to explore the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, ancient Polonnaruwa and the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, before travelling into the cool highlands of Kandy and Nuwara Eliya. Enjoy a scenic train journey through lush tea country and visit a traditional Ceylon tea plantation.

Continue south for an unforgettable Yala National Park safari, before following the coastline to historic Galle. Along the way, experience Sri Lankan cuisine, local traditions and the warm hospitality that makes this island so special.

A perfect blend of culture, nature, wildlife and relaxation, this journey offers a wonderful introduction to the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka.

Why you'll love this trip

Journey through ancient kingdoms — Discover the extraordinary archaeological treasures of Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla.
Experience Sri Lanka's spiritual heart — Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy and experience the colour and energy of a traditional Kandyan cultural performance.
Travel through tea country — Journey into the cool central highlands by scenic train, surrounded by rolling tea plantations, misty mountains and lush valleys.
Discover the world of Ceylon tea — Visit a working tea plantation and learn how Sri Lanka's famous tea is grown, harvested and produced.
Wildlife in the wild — Venture into Yala National Park on safari, with opportunities to encounter elephants, crocodiles, exotic birdlife and the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.
Taste the flavours of Sri Lanka — Experience traditional Sri Lankan cuisine through local dining and an authentic cooking experience.
Explore the southern coast — Discover the historic Galle Fort and see the iconic stilt fishermen along the southern coastline.
Travel at your own pace — Enjoy a thoughtfully balanced itinerary combining guided sightseeing, authentic experiences and time to relax.

Day 01 :

Arrival in Colombo

Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport, where you will be welcomed by your local representative and transferred privately to your hotel in Colombo.

Settle into your surroundings and enjoy some time to relax after your journey. This evening, begin your Sri Lankan experience with a traditional Sri Lankan dinner, introducing you to the island’s wonderfully diverse flavours.

Overnight: Colombo
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 02 :

Discover Colombo

Begin your journey with a guided exploration of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant commercial capital.

Discover the city’s fascinating blend of colonial heritage, religious landmarks, bustling markets and modern development. Along the way, experience the contrasts that make Colombo such an engaging introduction to Sri Lanka.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, with optional experiences available for those wishing to explore more of the capital.

Overnight: Colombo
Meals: Breakfast

Day 03 :

Colombo > Sigiriya

Leave Colombo behind and travel towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.

Journey through the changing landscapes of the island’s interior, with a stop along the way to experience the local countryside and enjoy lunch.

Continue towards Sigiriya and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

An optional wildlife safari may be arranged for those wishing to add an additional wildlife experience.

Overnight: Sigiriya
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 04 :

Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Polonnaruwa

Today, discover two of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable ancient treasures.

Begin with a visit to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of the island’s most spectacular archaeological sites. Explore its ancient Water Gardens, Lion’s Paw Terrace and remarkable ruins while enjoying panoramic views across the surrounding landscape.

Continue to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its impressive ancient monuments, royal ruins and magnificent Buddhist sculptures before returning to Sigiriya.

Overnight: Sigiriya
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 05 :

Sigiriya > Dambulla > Kandy

Travel towards the cultural capital of Kandy, stopping at the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple.

Dating back more than two thousand years, the temple complex contains five atmospheric caves decorated with colourful murals and an extraordinary collection of Buddha statues.

Continue into the central highlands and arrive in Kandy.

Visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites.

This evening, experience a traditional Kandyan Cultural Dance performance, bringing together music, movement and centuries-old traditions.

Overnight: Kandy
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 06 :

Kandy > Nuwara Eliya

Today brings one of Sri Lanka’s most memorable journeys as you travel by scenic train into the country’s beautiful hill country.

Watch as the landscape transforms from lush valleys to mist-covered mountains and endless tea plantations.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, visit a traditional Ceylon tea plantation and factory to discover the fascinating journey from tea leaf to the finished product.

Later, explore the atmospheric town of Nuwara Eliya, known for its cool climate, colonial architecture and beautifully landscaped surroundings.

Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 07 :

Nuwara Eliya > Yala

Leave the cool mountain country behind and descend towards Sri Lanka’s southern plains.

Along the way, experience the changing scenery as tea country gives way to tropical landscapes.

A stop at a traditional buffalo curd farm offers an insight into rural Sri Lankan life and one of the island’s much-loved traditional foods.

Continue towards Yala and check into your accommodation.

Overnight: Yala
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 08 :

Yala National Park Safari

Today is dedicated to Sri Lanka’s extraordinary wildlife.

Set out on a safari through Yala National Park, exploring a landscape of forests, grasslands, lagoons and waterways.

Keep watch for elephants, wild buffalo, crocodiles, colourful birdlife and, with luck, the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Return to your hotel after your safari and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Overnight: Yala
Meals: Breakfast / Dinner

Day 09 :

Yala > Galle

Continue south towards the beautiful coastline of Sri Lanka.

Along the way, stop for a photo opportunity to see the famous Weligama stilt fishermen, one of the island’s most recognisable coastal traditions.

Continue to Galle and settle into your accommodation.

The remainder of the day is at leisure, with optional experiences available for those wishing to explore the surrounding coastal landscapes.

Overnight: Galle
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10 :

Galle & Sri Lankan Cooking Experience

Today combines Sri Lankan food, culture and history.

Enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan cooking experience, learning about local spices, ingredients and traditional cooking methods before enjoying the dishes you have helped prepare.

Later, explore the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site whose historic ramparts and colonial architecture overlook the Indian Ocean.

Wander through its atmospheric lanes, boutique shops, cafés and historic buildings while discovering the fascinating blend of Dutch, Portuguese and Sri Lankan influences.

Overnight: Galle
Meals: Breakfast / Lunch

Day 11 :

Galle > Colombo Airport | Departure

Enjoy a leisurely final morning before beginning your journey towards Colombo.

Along the way, visit a Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Centre and learn about the conservation efforts protecting Sri Lanka’s precious marine turtle populations.

Continue to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight.

Depart Sri Lanka with memories of ancient kingdoms, misty mountains, extraordinary wildlife, tropical coastlines and the warm hospitality of the island once known as Ceylon.

Meals: Breakfast

Important notes

Booking Conditions

A non-refundable deposit of $1000 is required to confirm your booking.
The remaining balance is payable by the date specified on your final invoice.
All bookings are subject to The Travellers’ Terms & Conditions.
Availability and pricing are subject to confirmation at the time of booking.

Cancellations

Cancellation fees are subject to the terms and conditions of the individual suppliers and the booking conditions applicable to your reservation.

From the date of booking until 75 days prior to departure – loss of deposit.

Within 75 days of departure – no refund.

Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance is strongly recommended for all travellers and should be arranged at the time of booking.

Your policy should provide appropriate cover for medical expenses, cancellation, interruption, baggage and other unforeseen travel circumstances.

Travel Insurance is essential. Please feel free to contact us for a quote.

Documentation

Travellers are responsible for ensuring that they hold the appropriate passports, visas and travel documentation required for Sri Lanka and any onward destinations.

Your passport should have sufficient validity for international travel.

Visa requirements vary according to nationality. Please check the current requirements applicable to your passport before travel or ask your Travellers specialist for assistance.

Health and Fitness

There are no obligatory inoculations required.
The tour stays in boutique / premium hotels and meals included will be at recommended restaurants which will minimize health risks.
Hepatitis should not be an issue, but precautionary measures are your personal choice.
Update your tetanus and polio.
Malaria prevention varies considerably. Check with your medical professional.
A good standard of health and mobility are required with the ability to climb steps and walk up hills.

Terms and Conditions

For full terms and conditions please visit our website Terms and Conditions or please ask our specialist for a copy.

Safari

The Yala National Park safari will operate in a 4WD safari vehicle. Wildlife sightings are naturally dependent on seasonal and environmental conditions and cannot be guaranteed.

Optional Experiences

Optional activities and excursions can be arranged upon request and may incur an additional charge. Advance booking is recommended for experiences with limited availability.

Weather

Sri Lanka experiences different weather patterns across the island. Conditions can vary between regions and may occasionally affect sightseeing, road journeys and outdoor activities.