Congratulations! You've got our Mates' Rates! Enjoy 10% OFF all dates! Enter code RATE10 at checkout. Sale extended to 21 July!
7
Days
05
Hours
46
Mins
36
Secs
Tour Routing

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
- Relax and unwind on the Maldives, a tropical paradise with white-sand beaches, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and vibrant marine life

Itinerary
Colombo Arrival
Ayubowan. Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by our representative holding the “AVG Travels” logo and they will take you to the hotel for check-in. You are free to relax for the rest of the day.
Meals: In-flight meal
Accommodation: Sofia Colombo City Hotel 4*or similar
Please Note:
Although most flights arrive late at night, due to airline flight scheduling and availability, some departures may occur one day prior.
The airport transfer is not included and you will make your own transport to the airport if you select the “land tour” option.
Colombo
Today is a day off or you can join our optional tour to explore Colombo City by Tuk Tuk.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Sofia Colombo City Hotel 4*or similar
Optional tour: Colombo City by Tuk Tuk
Explore Colombo in just a few hours with this tuk-tuk tour of the city
You will visit iconic sites like the Old Parliament House, admire colonial architecture, enjoy delicious street food, and shop for unique souvenirs. Finally, visit the Lotus Tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Colombo from South Asia’s tallest structure. Standing 350 meters tall, the Colombo Lotus Tower is a striking symbol of modern Sri Lanka, shaped like a blooming lotus flower. Your visit includes access to the observation deck, where you can take in panoramic views of the city, Indian Ocean, and surrounding landscapes. The tower also features interactive displays, shopping outlets, and dining options at high altitude, making it a unique blend of architecture, technology, and leisure. Whether you go by day for a clear skyline or at night for a city lit in gold, the Lotus Tower is a must-see icon of Colombo’s urban charm.
Optional tour: Colombo Street Food Tour
Colombo Street Food Tasting with Local Beer offers a flavorful journey through Sri Lanka’s bustling capital, where vibrant culture meets irresistible cuisine. This guided experience takes you through the lively streets and hidden alleys of Colombo, where you’ll sample a variety of authentic street foods—like spicy kottu roti, isso wade (prawn fritters), hoppers, and creamy curd with treacle. As the sun sets, mingle with locals at popular roadside spots and savor the island’s favorite brews, including chilled bottled beer (poya-full moon days not available). It is a deliciously immersive way to taste Colombo’s culinary soul while soaking in the energy of the city’s nightlife.
Colombo
Dambulla Golden Cave
Sigiriya
After breakfast, you will leave Colombo and drive to Dambulla.
Upon arrival, visit Dambulla Golden Cave Temple, designated as a world heritage site dating from the 1st century BC Dambulla temple is located on a gigantic rock towering more than 160 m above the surrounding area. The Rock itself is more than 1.5 km around its base and the summit is at 550m. The caves on this rock were the refuge of King Walagamba when he was in exile for 14 years and feature a mixture of religious and worldly paintings and sculptures. Several reclining Buddha statues include the 15-meter-long sculpture of the Buddha which is carved to the rock.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Wewa Addara Hotel 3* or similar
Lion Rock Fortress
Polonnaruwa
Sigiriya
After early breakfast, you will climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (Lion’s Rock), one of the most extraordinary artistic complexes of its time. This magnificent citadel, declared as a UNESCO heritage site in 1982, allures artistic and architectural curiosity from around the globe. Sigiriya is a rock fortress built in the 5th century A.D. This majestic Citadel in the sky was the refuge of King Kasyapa and is world-renowned for its Mirror Wall’, which consists of poems and paragraphs carved by some of the thousands of visitors who visited the rock many years ago, and for its magnificent frescoes, like the Ajantha frescoes of India. After that, you will transfer to Polonnaruwa. Along the way, experience the authentic flavors of Sri Lanka with a farmer’s lunch prepared by a local family, showcasing the island’s culinary traditions. Savor the taste of freshly prepared rice and curry dishes, carefully crafted using local ingredients.
After lunch, drive to visit the Polonnaruwa Ancient Kingdom is Sri Lanka’s second oldest kingdom and features a plethora of ruins and places of religious worship. Some of the many interesting places to visit in Polonnaruwa include the Gal Viharaya (Stone temple), Lankathilake, Thivanka Image House, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, the Audience Hall and the Vatadage. Then return to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodation: Wewa Addara Hotel 3* or similar
Sigiriya
Kandy
After breakfast, proceed to Kandy city (90 km/2 hours) enroute visit a Spice Garden in Matale.
You will learn the ingredients for cooking curry, distinguish species, experience massage and shopping for some product nature stay here. Thereafter, go ahead to Kandy City.
Upon arrival, explore the city tour by foot. Visit Central market, Old Bogambara Prison from outside, stroll around Kandy Lake will entice you to spend some time here. Also, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic of the Buddha, the founder of Buddhism. The sacred relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century A.D. The sacred relic has ever since been the symbol of sovereignty for its ruler and is always enshrined in great splendor. Embark on a sightseeing tour in the city of Kandy. Thereafter, enjoy a typical Sri Lankan cultural performance.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Hotel Topaz Kandy 4* or Similar
Tips & suggestions: During the visit of Temple of the Tooth please wear clothing covering knees and shoulders, as a sign of respect. You will also be required to leave your shoes at the shoe counter near to the entrance before entering the temple.
Kandy
Tea Factory
Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast, you will leave for Nuwara Eliya.
Along the way, you will visit Peradeniya Botanical Gardens once enjoyed by a Kandyan queen; this rose garden is enclosed next to a large bend in the Mahaweli River. Residence of Kandyan princes in the 1st Century. There are 4,000 different plant species here, considered one of the most advanced in Asia.
Afternoon visit a tea plantation and a factory. Here you will enjoy the absolute tea experience, taking you from the moment the young tea leaves are plucked from the plantation to being processed in the factory to make a steamy cup of tea. If you are interested, the tea factory is the best place to purchase good quality tea. Next, proceed to Nuwara Eliya and admire the amazing views here. Arrive and check in to the hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner.
Accommodation: Mirage King Cottage 4* or Similar
Tips & suggestions: Please note you will be driving to an altitude of 1900 meters and therefore the temperature in Nuwara Eliya will be 20-25c during the day, and 10-15c during the night. Warm clothing is recommended.
Nuwara Eliya
Ella
Tissamaharama
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 in Tissamaharama for check in.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Oak Ray Wild Yala 3* or Similar
Please note:
- Option to upgrade to first class train with the price $100/person
- 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.
Tissamaharama
Galle
Bentota
Today, you are free at leisure or you can purchase our optional visit to Yala National Park.
Afterwards proceed to Galle (150 km / 2.5 hours), 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. Then we will transfer to Bentota to check in and relax.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Tangerine Beach Hotel 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.
Bentota
Maldives
Today, you will say farewell to Sri Lanka as you are transferred to the airport in time for your included flight to the Maldives.
Welcome to Paradise! A visit to the Maldives is truly a dream come true. This stunning tropical nation lies within the Indian Ocean and is composed of 26 colourful coral atolls composed of hundreds of idyllic islands. The Maldives is world famous for it’s beautiful beaches, sapphire blue lagoons and extensive coral reefs.
Upon arrival into Malé’s Velana International Airport you will be welcomed and then transferred by speedboat (35 km / 45 minutes) to your resort where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Nestled on an island renowned for its thriving marine life, your resort offers an opportunity to unwind on the pristine beaches or to explore the underwater world.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Adaaran Club Rannalhi 4* or similar
Maldives
This morning enjoy a delicious breakfast while admiring the surrounding low-lying islands that make up the utopian Maldives. Every atoll here is formed by centuries of coral reef growth, and each is encircled by a shallow lagoon, protected by the surrounding reef systems. The islands here have tropical castaway qualities: tall coconut palms, white sandy beaches and crystal clear lagoons.
Today you may enjoy an entire day of leisure, participating in some of the many exciting activities that the islands have to offer.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Adaaran Club Rannalhi 4* or similar
Maldives
Breakfast at your resort and you also enjoy your leisure day in the dreamy Maldives. Enjoy any number of the incredible activities available to you, and make the most of your fantastic adventure here. Alternatively, relax on the beach and take in the picture-perfect surroundings while dipping your toes in the warm, luscious waters of the Indian Ocean.
You will have never known true relaxation until you set foot on this luxurious white sandy beach.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Adaaran Club Rannalhi 4* or similar
Maldives
Breakfast at your resort and you also enjoy your leisure day in the dreamy Maldives. Enjoy any number of the incredible activities available to you, and make the most of your fantastic adventure here. Alternatively, relax on the beach and take in the picture-perfect surroundings while dipping your toes in the warm, luscious waters of the Indian Ocean.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Adaaran Club Rannalhi 4* or similar
Maldives
Home
Today you will be transferred back to Velana International Airport in time for your departure flight.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: In-flight
Home
Welcome home. We hope you have enjoyed your amazing Sri Lankan journey and your relaxing Maldives break with AVG Travels.
Included
- Return international flights to and from Australia
- International flight from Colombo, Sri Lanka to Malé, Maldives
- Return airport transfers
- 8 nights in hand-picked 3 and 4-star hotels in Sri Lanka
- 4 nights in all-inclusive 4-star luxury Maldives beach resort (including Green Tax)
- Daily breakfast, 4 lunches, 6 dinners
- Speedboat from Male to the resort and return
- 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 $1,500 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: 15
Maximum: 30
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,800 per person in addition to the twin share price.
Paired Solo Traveler
Not available
Triple Share
Not available
Children
Children is welcomed for this holiday package. Children under 2 years, 10% surcharge of adult price and stay same bed with parents. Children from 2 – 11 years old will be surcharged 80% of adult pricing.
If we book group booking with airlines, the group fare is only apply for adult price. There is no discount for children from 2-11 . So in case we have a group and use group fare, no discount on airfare for children
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.