15 Day 5 Star Grand Sri Lanka
International Flights Included
Small Group Journey
Fully Escorted
7-Day Change of Mind
Day by Day Itinerary
Colombo, Galle, Yala National Park, Nuwara Eliya, Kandy, Sigiriya, Chilaw (Coastal Town)
Highlights
- Spend time in Colombo uncover key landmarks showcasing the city’s rich history and culture
- Cruise along the serene Madu River and explore Cinnamon Island to uncover the secrets to this incredible spice
- Discover the historic fort in Galle, its charming streets on foot, and hear stories about its colonial past
- Search for wildlife during a safari at Yala National Park, home to the largest density of leopards in the world
- Visit a Nuwara Eliya tea plantation, learn about tea production, and enjoy a fragrant tea tasting
- Witness the Sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, in Kandy, arguably the most important religious site in the country
- Explore thee impressive Dambulla Rock Cave, a stunning cave shrine with intricate Buddhist murals and statues
- Marvel at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, with its ancient ruins including royal palaces and intricate temples
- Take a jeep safari in to Minneriya National Park, one of the best places to see elephants in the wild
- Climb the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress and soak in stunning views, intricate frescoes, and get a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s royal past
- Unwind at a resort in Chilaw, with soft sandy beach on one side and a charming lagoon on the other
Itinerary
Home 
Colombo
Ayubowan. Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport you will be met and transferred to your city 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
Accommodation: NH Collection Colombo 5* or similar
Colombo 
Galle
After breakfast, uncover Colombo and the city’s vibrant highlights. Begin with a visit to the National Museum, home to Sri Lanka’s historical treasures. Explore Gangaramaya Temple, known for its eclectic architecture and cultural artifacts. Stroll through the bustling Pettah Market to experience local life and vibrant street scenes. Pass by the Old Parliament, Independence Square and end with a relaxing walk along Galle Face Green, enjoying views of the Indian Ocean and Colombo’s skyline.
Afterwards, you will head south towards Galle, with a stop in Balapitiya. Enjoy a serene cruise on Madu River and journey through lush mangroves and picturesque waterways. Glide along the river, witness diverse wildlife and charming riverbank scenery. The highlight of the trip is a visit to Cinnamon Island, where you will learn about the fascinating process of cinnamon cultivation. Sri Lanka is the world’s largest producer of pure cinnamon.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Resort Galle 5* or similar
Galle
Today, set on a tour of the Galle Fort and its Fortifications. This is a city that exudes an essence with a perfect blend of past and present. Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, the presence of Portuguese, Dutch and English is very evident in the fascinating architectural styles of the Galle Fort.
Begin today with a walking tour of Galle Fort and immerse yourself in its colonial charm, listen to stories of its rich history and appreciate its World Heritage status. Start at the imposing Dutch Reformed Church, then stroll along the fort’s well-preserved ramparts for panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Wander through cobbled streets lined with Dutch-era buildings, now home to boutiques, cafes, and galleries. Visit the 18th-century lighthouse and the historic clock tower. Pause at quaint squares and atmospheric alleyways, absorbing the blend of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences. The afternoon is at your leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Radisson Blu Resort Galle 5* or similar
Galle Yala National Park
Journey to Yala National Park(165 km / 3.5 hours) passing through picturesque landscapes, lush countryside and small villages.
Head out on an exhilarating afternoon wildlife adventure. Take your seat in your open-top jeep along with your expert local ranger. As the sun begins its descent, the park’s landscape transforms with rich golden hues. Your adventure navigates through diverse terrains—scrublands, grasslands, and dense forests—providing opportunities to spot the park’s famed residents. Look out for elusive leopards stealthily moving through the undergrowth, herds of elephants grazing, sloth bears and colourful bird species darting overhead. Return to your accommodation, relax and enjoy dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Jetwing Yala 5* or similar
Please Note: Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather and for the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period Yala National Park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park.
Yala National Park Nuwara Eliya
Spend the morning at your leisure or opt for a safari at Yala National Park.
Leave Yala behind and continue your journey to Nuwara Eliya (170 km / 5 hours). Often referred to as ‘Little England’, this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era bungalows.
Upon arrival, check in at the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: The Golden Ridge Hotel 5* 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.
Optional tour: MORNING SAFARI YALA NATIONAL PARK
Wake up early in the morning at 05.30am, visit the Yala National Park with a packed breakfast from the hotel. The Yala National Park in southern Sri Lanka has the world’s highest concentration of leopards. Much of the nature reserve is parkland, but it also includes jungle, beaches, freshwater lakes, rivers and scrubland. In addition to leopards the Yala National Park is also home to substantial numbers of elephants, crocodiles, wild boar, water buffalo, gray langurs and many more varieties of large animals. But that’s not all; the park is also home to birds of prey such as the white-bellied sea eagles, waders, painted Storks, the Indian peafowl and the Sri Lanka jungle fowl.
Nuwara Eliya
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning, or explore nearby attractions at your own pace or opt for an optional tour to Horton Plains.
Later visit a Tea Plantation and Factory. Here you will enjoy an 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.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: The Golden Ridge Hotel 5* or similar
Nuwara Eliya 
Kandy
Take to the rails today travelling from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy on what is considered one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Travel through Sri Lanka’s lush highlands, meander through verdant landscapes, rolling hills, and terraced tea gardens. As you ascend, the scenery transforms with misty mountains and cascading waterfalls. The ride offers panoramic views of the countryside, with charming villages and vibrant greenery passing by. Apart from the breathtaking sceneries, it is a chance for you to mingle with local people.
Enjoy some free time upon arrival in Kandy before ending your day with a spectacular Sri Lankan Cultural Performance.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: The Golden Crown Hotel 5* or similar
Kandy
Explore the beautiful city of Kandy with an included tuk tuk and bazaar tour, followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Stroll around the 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.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: The Golden Crown Hotel 5* 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 Dambulla Sigiriya
After breakfast, drive to Damballa (90 km / 2.5 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.
Continue to you over night accommodation at Sigiriya.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana 5* or similar
Sigiriya Polonnaruwa Sigiriya
After breakfast visit Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals, serving as the second capital from the 11th to 13th centuries after Anuradhapura. Uncover some of the ruins and places of religious worship such as the Gal Viharaya (Stone temple), Lankathilake, Thivanka Image House, Nissanka Latha Mandapaya, the Audience Hall and the Vatadage.
Later feast on the authentic flavours 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.
Take a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. Search the grasslands and forests for wildlife including leopards and sloth bears as well as the Asian elephants the park is most famous for. A safari in Minneriya National Park during the “Gathering” season when large herds of elephants converge around Minneriya Tank is a special experience.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana 5* or similar
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.
The remainder of the day is at your leisure to enjoy the expansive pool, or indulge in a relaxing spa treatment.
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lodge Habarana 5* or similar
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.
Sigiriya Chilaw
Today we make for the coastal town of Chilaw (160 km / 3.5 hours), to finish off our time in Sri Lanka relaxing near the crystal waters of the Indian Ocean. Chilaw is well known for the three ‘C’s’ – crabs, coconuts and coreas.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation: Anantaya Resort and Spa Chilaw 5* or similar
Chilaw
Today, you are free time at leisure to relax at the beach or explore the town as you wish.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: Anantaya Resort and Spa Chilaw 5* or similar
Chilaw Home
Relax until your transfer to Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight back home.
Meals: Breakfast.
Accommodation: In-flight
Home
Welcome home. We hope you have enjoyed your amazing Sri Lankan adventure with AVG Travels.
Included
- Return international flights
- Small group journey max. 16 travellers
- 13 nights in hand-picked 4 and 5-star hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfast, 2 lunches, 10 dinners
- Return airport transfers in country on the first and last day of tour
- 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 a “3 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 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 require a FULL payment at the time of booking.
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 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: 16
Single Supplement
Single supplement is $1,290 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 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.
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
- $280 per room, per night based on double/twin room share
- $80 per vehicle per way
Post Tour Accommodation
- $245 per room, per night based on double/twin room share
- $80 per vehicle per way
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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