Welcome to Sri Lanka!

On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be met by your transfer and driven to your accommodation in Colombo.

Meals: n/a
Accommodation: Courtyard by Marriott Colombo 5* or similar

In the morning, after breakfast, we’ll travel south toward Galle, with a brief sightseeing tour of Colombo along the way. Blending modern Western influences with traditional Sri Lankan charm, Colombo offers a glimpse into the country’s commercial capital. During our drive, we’ll pass notable landmarks such as the Old Parliament, President’s House, Galle Face Green, Vaharamaha Devi Park, and Independence Square.

You’ll also have the opportunity to step off the coach and admire the uniquely stunning Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (entry not included).

Our journey continues with a visit to the Colombo National Museum, a captivating destination that takes visitors through Sri Lanka’s rich history. Housed in an elegant neo-Baroque building commissioned by Governor William Henry Gregory in 1877, the museum features a striking white façade. As you explore its various rooms, you’ll discover exhibits dedicated to Sri Lanka’s historical kingdoms, with informative displays offering fascinating insights—such as the meanings behind the mudras (gestures and poses) in Sri Lankan Buddha statues.

Make a visit to a turtle hatchery in Kosgoda to learn about these creatures and their conservation efforts in this part of the country.

Later, in Balapitiya, we’ll embark on a boat trip along the scenic Madu River, navigating through 64 scattered islands. One highlight of our journey is Cinnamon Island, where we’ll learn about the production of cinnamon—an industry in which Sri Lanka leads as the world’s largest producer of pure cinnamon.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon 4* or similar

After breakfast today, embark on a tour of Galle Fort and its historic fortifications. This remarkable city seamlessly blends the past with the present, creating a unique and captivating atmosphere. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988, Galle Fort showcases a rich tapestry of architectural influences from the Portuguese, Dutch, and British, reflecting its storied colonial history.

Lunch will be at your leisure within the Galle Fort precinct.

On returning back to Hikkaduwa, stop to view the famous Stilt Fisherman plying their trade.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Hikka Tranz by Cinnamon 4* or similar

After breakfast in the morning, we depart for Yala National Park.

Upon arrival, embark on a guided game drive in the afternoon, exploring the park’s diverse wildlife and lush vegetation. As one of Sri Lanka’s largest national parks, Yala is renowned for its rich biodiversity and is one of the best places to spot the elusive leopard.

Please note: Yala National Park typically closes between September and October, with exact dates announced closer to the time. This seasonal closure occurs due to dry weather conditions and to ensure the well-being of the park’s wildlife. For departures during this period, the itinerary will be adjusted to include a visit to Udawalawe National Park while still offering access to Blocks 4 or 5 of Yala National Park.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Chaarya Resort & Spa 5* or similar

After breakfast, and an optional second Yala National Park game drive (at an additional cost), continue towards the Hatton region, passing via Rawana Waterfall and through the Ella Gap and tea plantations en route.

Check into your hotel and you will have the chance to explore the town at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Araliya Red Hotel 4* or similar

This morning, enjoy a leisurely and relaxed start to your day.

In the afternoon, visit a tea plantation and factory for an immersive tea experience. Witness the journey of tea from the moment young leaves are carefully plucked to their processing in the factory, culminating in a perfectly brewed cup. For those interested, this is also the ideal place to purchase high-quality tea straight from the source.

Later, you will have the chance to enjoy high-tea at the renowned Grand Tea Lounge, one of the most celebrated spots in Nuwara Eliya. Here, savor a delightful High Tea at the historic Grand Hotel.

In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at your hotel.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Araliya Red Hotel 4* or similar

Transfer to the local train station in time for your journey through the tea plantations en route to the spiritual capital of Sri Lanka – Kandy.

On arrival in Kandy, check into your hotel and you will have the chance to explore the city at your own pace.

In the evening, experience a mesmerizing Sri Lankan Cultural Performance, showcasing traditional music and dance. Following the performance, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, which houses a revered relic of the Buddha and is protected by its guardian elephants.

Please note: visit to the Temple of the Tooth may take place the following night.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy 4* or similar

After breakfast, embark on a fascinating Tuk Tuk and Bazaar tour to explore the charming city of Kandy, immersing yourself in its vibrant culture. Then, enjoy a delightful lunch at a local restaurant. 

In the afternoon, unwind with a leisurely stroll around the scenic Kandy Lake, taking in its tranquil beauty.

If you didn’t visit the Temple of the Tooth last night, entrance and the experience will be undertaken this evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy 4* or similar

Today, continue towards the Cultural Triangle of Sri Lanka where the tour will explore the history of different civilisations over the next few days.

En route, visit the unique and fascinating Dambulla Cave Temple: a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features stunning ancient murals and over 150 Buddha statues within its sacred rock caves, dating back over 2,000 years.

Afterwards, embark on a jeep safari through Minneriya National Park. Renowned for its Great Elephant Gathering, where hundreds of elephants congregate around the reservoir. It also boasts diverse wildlife, lush forests, and scenic landscapes.

Continue to Habarana and to your accommodation for the next 3 nights.                            

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Habarana Village by Cinnamon 4* or similar

Today is all about exploring the first ancient civilisation of Sri Lanka – Anuradhapura.

Explore Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to magnificent stupas, sacred Bodhi trees, and well-preserved ruins. Discover iconic sites like Ruwanwelisaya, Jetavanaramaya, and Thuparamaya, experiencing the spiritual and historical grandeur of this revered city, which dates back over 2,500 years.

Return to Habarana where this evening you will have a Sri Lanka cooking class and dinner.

Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: Habarana Village by Cinnamon 4* or similar

This morning, before the temperature gets too hot, we will venture to Sigiriya Rock Fortress to learn about its cultural significance and to climb it. A remarkable artistic masterpiece dating back to 477–498 AD, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is globally renowned for its distinctive and awe-inspiring architecture.

After a farmer’s lunch, we’ll embark on a sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital from 1017 to 1235 AD. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, Polonnaruwa rose to prominence after the fall of Anuradhapura.

Return to the hotel in time for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Habarana Village by Cinnamon 4* or similar

Departing the Cultural Triangle en route for the coastal town of Negombo.

Arriving around lunch time, where you will have the remainder of the day at your leisure to relax or explore or do some shopping.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Regal Réseau Hotel & Spa 4* or similar

Today is all about relaxing and going at your own pace – the day is completely at your leisure.

Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Regal Réseau Hotel & Spa 4* or similar

Your final day in Sri Lanka.

You will have a late check-out of your accommodation prior to being transferred to Bandaranike International Airport (CMB) in time for your departure flight.

Meals: Breakfast