13 Day Insights of Sri Lanka
International Flights Included
Small Group Journey
Fully Escorted
7 Day Change Of Mind
Day by Day Itinerary
Negombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Tissamaharama (Yala National Park), Mirissa (South Coast), Bentota, Colombo
Highlights
- Marvel at Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with its intricate rock carvings and stunning Buddha statues
- Climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, also known as Lion’s Rock, and discover one of Sri Lanka’s most extraordinary architectural marvels
- Explore the ruins of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second-oldest kingdom, and immerse yourself in the island’s rich history
- Feast on an authentic farmer’s lunch using local ingredients and prepared by a local family
- Visit the revered Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site. This sacred temple, housing the tooth relic of Buddha, offers visitors a spiritual journey
- Experience a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella, hailed as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world
- Spend time at a tea plantation and witness skilled hands plucking leaves, before entering the factory to see leaves processed, dried, and crafted into flavourful teas
- Enjoy free time in Ella, Mirissa and Colombo to uncover the destinations and personalize your journey to suit your own interests
- Stroll the charming streets of colonial Galle with its UNESCO World Heritage listed Galle Fort
- Relax at Bentota, one of the country’s south western coastal towns renowned for its pristine beaches and watersports
Itinerary
Home Negombo
Ayubowan. Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport you will be met and transferred to your Negombo hotel for check-in.
Please Note: Although most flights arrive late at night, due to airline flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur one day prior.
Meals: In-flight meal
Accommodation: Regal Reseau Hotel & Spa 4*or similar
Negombo Dambulla Sigiriya
After breakfast, drive to Damballa (160 km / 4 hours). Upon arrival, visit Dambulla Cave Temple, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site dating from the 1st century BCE.
Marvel at the impressive rock formations towering 160 metres above the surroundings, housing intricate religious and worldly paintings and sculptures. Witness the remarkable 15-metre-long reclining Buddha statue carved directly into the rock.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Wewa Addara Hotel 3*or similar
Sigiriya Polonnaruwa Sigiriya
Start your day with an early breakfast before climbing the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, known as Lion’s Rock. Take in the impressive views at the summit of this 5th-century marvel. A UNESCO World Heritage site, built by King Kassyapa I, it served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years and showcases extraordinary artistry and architecture, including the famous mirror wall and stunning frescoes.
After exploring Sigiriya, travel to Polonnaruwa, and feast on an authentic farmer’s lunch of curry and rice using local ingredients and prepared by a local family.
Discover the ancient Polonnaruwa Kingdom, Sri Lanka’s second-oldest kingdom, featuring impressive ruins like the Gal Viharaya, Lankathilake, and the Vatadage.
Please Note: Starting from the base, the climb up Sigiriya Rock involves over 1200 metal stairs or steep steps. For those unable to make it to the summit, relax in the royal gardens or visit the Sigiriya Museum that offers exhibits and background on the cultural and religious significance of Sigiriya.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner.
Accommodation: Wewa Addara Hotel 3* or similar
Sigiriya Kandy
Set off for Kandy (90 km / 2 hours) with a stop at a Spice Garden in Matale. Learn about the ingredients used in Sri Lankan cuisine, experience a spice massage, and shop for natural products.
Continue to Kandy and explore the city on foot, visiting the Central Market and picturesque Kandy Lake. Witness the Temple of the Tooth, a significant Buddhist site. Built during the 17th century, the UNESCO World Heritage site houses the sacred tooth relic, which was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century A.D.
This evening be entertained with a traditional Sri Lankan cultural dance performance accompanied by musicians.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Topaz 4* or similar
Please Note: During the visit to the Temple of the Tooth, please wear clothing covering knees and shoulders, as a sign of respect. You will also be required to remove your shoes.
Kandy Tea Plantation Nuwara Eliya
Before leaving Kandy today, stop for a visit of the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to 4,000 plant species and once enjoyed by a Kandyan queen.
Continue towards Nuwara Eliya. On the way, stop and visit a tea plantation and a factory. Here you will enjoy the absolute tea experience, taking you from the young tea leaves being plucked to processed in the factory onsite to make an amazing cup of tea.
If you are interested, a tea plantation is the best place to purchase high quality tea.
Today ends in the hills of Nuwara Eliya.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Ripon Grand Hill 3* or similar
Please Note: The temperature in Nuwara Eliya will be 20-25c during the day, and 10-15c during the night. Warm clothing is recommended.
Nuwara Eliya Nanu Oya Ella
After breakfast, embark on one of South Asia’s most famous train rides. The train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella is widely regarded as one of the most extraordinary rail experiences in the world. This picturesque route through Sri Lanka’s hill country offers stunning views of tea plantations, misty valleys, and cascading waterfalls
Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your hotel for check in.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: BBQ HUB Ella 3* or similar
Please note: Sri Lanka Railways have a manual booking system for train reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. On the rare occasion the train is fully booked we will cover the route by road.
Ella Tissamaharama (Yala National Park)
Spend a morning at leisure of opt for the optional tour to Lipton Seat (paid locally). Later continue to Tissamaharama and en route visit the picturesque Rawana Waterfall for some stunning photos and the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, a marvel of colonial-era railway construction. Learn about its history and take in the surrounding greenery.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Chaarya Resort & Spa 4* or similar
Please note: Optional Lipton Seat
Embark on an unforgettable journey to Lipton Seat in Haputale. Trek through emerald-green tea estates, ascending to the renowned viewpoint where Sir Thomas Lipton himself once beheld the breathtaking landscapes. As you reach the top, be captivated by the panoramic vistas that stretch as far as the eye can see. Immerse yourself in the rich tea culture and savor the serene beauty of this iconic destination.
Tissamaharama (Yala National Park) Mirissa (South Coast)
Spend the morning at your leisure or opt for a safari at Yala National Park, home to the world’s highest concentration of leopards, and diverse wildlife including majestic elephants, sloth bears, sambars, jackals, spotted dear, and a variety of bird species.
Later, continue along the south coast for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Mandara Resort 4* or similar
Optional tour: Safari Yala National Park (Early Morning)
A early morning safari in Yala National Park offers an exhilarating adventure through diverse landscapes—scrubland, forests, and wetlands. With the world’s highest concentration of leopards, Yala is also home to substantial numbers of elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, water buffalo, gray langurs and many more varieties of animals. The national park also hosts over 200 bird species, including migratory waterfowl. As you traverse the park’s rugged terrain in a jeep, you may see crocodiles basking by waterholes, herds of elephants, and colorful birds. Yala, Sri Lanka’s second-largest national park, is a haven for wildlife and its natural beauty is breathtaking and diverse.
Mirissa (South Coast) Galle Bentota
Spend the morning at your leisure or join the optional whale watching adventure. After check-out, visit Galle, a historical town with well preserved Dutch and Portuguese colonial architecture and renowned for its Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the charming streets, walk along the ramparts, and soak in the views from the lighthouse, and more.
Continue to the Bentota, (80 km / 90 minutes) celebrated for its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and vibrant water sports.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: NH Bentota Ceysands Resort 4* or similar
Optional tour: Whale Watching
Set off on an exciting whale watching adventure on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Take the opportunity to observe these majestic marine mammals in their natural habitat, surrounded by stunning ocean views.
Bentota
Enjoy a free day at leisure in Bentota. Take advantage of the hotel’s wide array of facilities including several restaurants and bars, an impressive swimming pool or engage in various sports activities as you wish.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: NH Bentota Ceysands Resort 4* or similar
Bentota Colombo
Today, journey to Colombo (90 km / 2 hours). Upon arrival, check in to your downtown hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at your leisure, exploring the bustling capital of Sri Lanka. Uncover this vibrant city known for its cultural sites, markets, and scenic waterfronts
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Steuart by Citrus 3* or similar
Colombo Home
Enjoy further free time exploring Colombo, do some last minute shopping along Galle Face Green or jump in a tuk-tuk to Colombo 7 for great coffee and cake.
At the appropriate time, transfer to the airport for departure.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: In-flight meal
Home
Welcome home. We hope you have enjoyed your amazing Sri Lankan adventure with AVG Travels.
Included
- Return international flights
- Small group journey, max. 20 travellers
- 11 nights in hand-picked 3 and 4-star hotels
- Daily breakfast, 1 lunch, 4 dinners
- Return airport transfers in country
- Fully escorted by English-speaking local guides
- Dedicated private air-conditioned vehicles
- All sightseeing and entrance fees as per itinerary
- 24/7 Support
Excluded
- Visas
- Travel insurance
- Tipping and gratuities
- Any service not clearly mentioned in the itinerary
- Optional activities listed in the itinerary
- Personal expenses
Fine Print
How to book and Payments
AVG Travels offers you an “Instalment Payment Plan”, where you will be required to pay a small deposit followed by a series of instalments when you book your departure tour.
- First payment: To secure your booking, you will be required to pay $300 per person deposit online through our website link.
- Second payment: You will be required to pay the second payment $2000 per person after 7 days when you receive our company invoice.
- Final payment: Final payment will be collected 120 days before your departure.
Tours under $2,000 or due to depart within 120 days will require a $300 deposit followed by full payment after 7 days when you receive our company invoice.
However, you will have 7-day cooling off period. Please refer to “Flexible Cancellation” section.
Flexible Cancellation
If you change your mind within 7 days of making your booking online, you can request a travel refund for your initial deposit payment. Once your purchase date falls outside of the 7-day period, our standard terms and conditions will apply.
Please ensure that any request to cancel your booking is received via email to [email protected], including the reason for cancellation, full name and booking reference.
Flight Information
This package includes international flights from Sydney, Melbourne, Perth, Adelaide, Brisbane or other city if requested when selecting your departure city.
Interstate Surcharge
Surcharges may apply and will be shown during the booking process when choosing your departure city.
In this package, we will use a selection of different airlines which may include a mix of full-service carriers or low-cost carriers. Luggage allowance is included.
- Some flights will require a minimum of 1 transit (maximum 2).
- All tickets will include 20-23 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
- Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
- Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable. Any changes will be subject to the airline rules, Airline change fees and an AVG Travels change fee of $250 per person.
- Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required. Any error in the names submitted will be subject to an AVG Travels name change fee of $150 plus any applicable fees charged by the airline, or the ticket may be non-refundable with the purchase of a new ticket required.
- Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control. It is important that you, as the customer, stay up-to-date with the latest airline schedule information prior to your departure. If a schedule change results in extended transits or an earlier/later departure from your destination, any additional accommodation or alternative arrangements will be at the traveler’s expense.
- Any airline ‘extras’ such as pre-allocated seating is at your own arrangement (additional charges apply)
- After booking, the price payable may be subject to change as a result of factors beyond the control of AVG Travels. AVG Travels reserves the right to increase the price payable and this will be reflected on the customer’s invoice. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, airline taxes, airfare increases and fuel surcharges.
- Internal flights (where applicable and included in the itinerary) will be using a local carrier and may include low-cost carriers without meals or entertainment. Checked baggage will still be included for each passenger. Any additional baggage required is payable at time of check-in.
- If you are travelling with another party on a separate booking, we cannot guarantee that the same flights will be booked for all parties, as this strictly depends on availability.
- You will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters are not included. If travelling over the recommended amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable directly.
- In the event of that you no-show on your scheduled flight, please be aware the airline will require you to pay a no show fee, Airline reissue fee plus any additional airfare and taxes. AVG Travels will also charge a $250 admin fee to assist re accommodating you on the next available flight. Please note that depending on the airline’s policy, purchasing a new ticket may be required.
Flight requests, amendments or preferences
We understand customers may wish to request changes to their included airfares. If you wish to fly with a certain airline, land at a certain time or change your flight in other ways we will gladly provide you with a personalized quote tailored to your specific requirements.
We would be more than happy to provide you with a quote for the following requests:
Airline Preferences – You may wish to fly with a particular airline
Cabin Preferences – These include upgrading to premium economy or business class
Extensions (start and end cities must remain the same) – You may request to extend your stay pre or post tour.
Meal Requests – You may request a specific meal for dietary requirements.
Seat Requests – If you would like to request particular seating. However please note, not all airlines allow the selection of pre-purchased seat arrangements.
Important Information
Group Size
Minimum: 4
Maximum: 20
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $499 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available
Triple Share
Not available
Children
Children must be 12 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent in flight and is subject to change depending on the flight schedule, please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent on land.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed in the itinerary is intended as a guide only and is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences however any changes are beyond our control.
Guides in Sri Lanka
National Guides are well versed in the overall history, geography and major attractions across multiple regions of Sri Lanka. They can share detailed explanations of the cultural elements of the country. Often holding professional certifications or license recognized by tourism authorities, they work closely with local guides to provide a seamless experience. Groups with 8 or more travelers will be accompanied by a National Guide.
Local Guides specialize in a specific region or city. They offer in-depth knowledge about local attractions, cultural nuances, history, and daily life. Fluent in the local language and with a deep understanding of local landmarks, traditions, and cuisine they offer insights into the area that a broader national guide might not cover.
Chauffeur Guide combines driving and guiding into one role. In addition to driving, the chauffeur guide can provide general information about the sights, history, culture, and local customs of the areas visited. They are typically well-versed in local customs, etiquette and norms to ensure interactions with locals are respectful and meaningful.
Arrival and Departure Transfers
If the holiday you book is LAND ONLY, arrival and departure transfers are NOT included in your tour price. You will need to make your own way to the joining hotel.
Physical Requirements
Fitness Level
A reasonable level of fitness is required but it’s more about spending time on your feet rather than covering large distances. You’ll be getting on and off coaches and boats, exploring the sights, climbing stairs and walking over a variety of terrains from cobblestones streets, hiking trails and moderate hills. There may be 1 or 2 days on tour when walking can cover 4- 6 kms over uneven terrain. Regular walking and light exercise before your trip can help ensure a more enjoyable and hassle-free travel experience.
Pace of Travel
The itinerary is moderately paced with a mix of sightseeing, travel between destinations and some time at leisure. Travel times between locations can vary, and road conditions may affect the schedule. Be prepared for some early starts and active days, but also enjoy some downtime to rest and explore independently. Flexibility will enhance your overall experience.
Tipping, Gratuities and Porterage
A friendly reminder that tipping, gratuities and porterage is not included in your package. Tipping is customary in many countries as it makes up the wage component for these services. Many countries don’t have a minimum wage like we do in Australia. Please be advised that USD $6 per person/day (or equivalent in local currency) will be collected in country by your tour escort on Day 1. This will cover all services throughout your journey but does not cover tipping or gratuities for room service, optional tours or any activities you do without the tour group. The tipping collection is not compulsory, however we have found that many travelers appreciate this as it relives the stress and worry of having to carry small amounts of money to tip for services throughout your tour.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is recommended to protect yourself against the unexpected. In addition to the support that a policy may provide, you may be asked to present a copy of your travel insurance documentation while traveling.
We have partnered with Nib Travel Insurance to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book Comprehensive or Essentials cover for your domestic, international or multi-trip journeys simply with us.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveler’s responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return and must have more than 2 blank pages.
Sri Lanka
An e-visa is required for entry into Sri Lanka. The Department of Immigration and Emigration launched a system called “Electronic Travel Authorization – ETA” in order to grant prior approval for a visa online for foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka. You can visit http://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/to purchase your visa online.
E-Visa’s are only valid for 30 days, so you can only apply closer to your travel dates. Please do not apply for your visa until you have your travel documentation. It will take 3 business days to be approved. The cost is US$50 per person.
Update 1 October 2024
DELAYED. The proposed implementation of visa-free travel, as previously announced in August 2024, has been put on hold with the recent elections in Sri Lanka. As such all guest will need to apply for a e-visa/eta using the following http://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://www.smartraveller.gov.au/ for up-to-date information in terms of entry requirements.
Weather
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate, characterized by two distinct monsoon seasons. The southwest monsoon brings rain from May to September, while the northeast monsoon affects the eastern part of the island from December to February. Be prepared for sudden rain showers, especially during monsoon periods. Temperatures are generally warm year-round, ranging from 25°C to 32°C (77°F to 90°F). Humidity is high in coastal areas while the central highlands are cooler. Pack light breathable clothing for coastal regions and warmer layers for cooler highlands.
Currency
Sri Lanka’s currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR), symbolized as Rs. Banknotes ranging from 10 to 5,000 and coins from 1 to 10 rupees are commonly used. ATMs are widely available in urban areas, and credit / debit cards are accepted in many hotels, restaurants and shops. It’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller transactions and rural areas where card facilities may be limited. Currency exchange services are available at airports, hotels, and local exchange bureaus.
Electricity
Sri Lanka operates on a 230V supply voltage with a frequency of 50Hz. The common plug types are D (three round pins in a triangular pattern) and G (three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern) so travelers from countries with different plug types may need a power adapter. Generally hotels and accommodations will provide adapters upon request or have multi-purpose sockets, but it is wise to carry one for convenience.
How to Extend Your Stay
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre Tour Accommodation
- $250 per room, per night including one-way airport transfer based on double/twin room share
Post Tour Accommodation
- $250 per room, per night including one-way airport transfer based on double/twin room share
Please select the number of extra nights required in the ‘Additional Nights Accommodation’ field when making your purchase. The additional cost for these arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Dates & Prices
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