Embark on an inspiring 9-night journey through Sri Lanka, where vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and moments of pure tranquillity come together effortlessly. Explore the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, gaze upon the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, and wander through Kandy with its revered Temple of the Tooth. Travel by train past rolling tea fields, follow scenic trails to Ella Rock, and soak up the historic charm of Galle Fort.

After days filled with discovery, unwind by the coast with an optional stay at the contemporary Mermaid Hotel & Club 4* or the elegant The Blue Water Hotel & Spa 5*. Both offer the ideal setting to relax by the ocean and savour the final days of your tropical escape.

Our offers:

12 nights: 9 night tour & 3 night extension

14 nights: 9 night tour & 5 night extension

Immerse yourself in the heart of Sri Lanka with this tour, designed to offer an unforgettable cultural and natural experience.

Explore UNESCO World Heritage sites such as the Golden Temple of Dambulla and Sigiriya Rock, and experience the authenticity of local life through unique activities: tuk-tuk rides, visits to traditional villages, and scenic hikes. Each day, be amazed by diverse landscapes, from pristine beaches to lush hills, and enjoy wildlife-rich safaris.

9 night tour:

Day 1: Arrival in Sri Lanka

Days 2 & 3: Sigiriya

Days 4 & 5: Kandy

Day 6: Haputale

Day 7: Tissamaharama

Days 8 & 9: Wadduwa/Kalutara

Day 10: Depart or opt to continue

Please note: Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same. 

After completing arrival formalities at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be greeted by your guide and transferred in comfort to your hotel in Negombo, a breezy coastal town known for its lagoon and golden sands. Settle in and unwind after your journey, with time to enjoy the hotel’s facilities at your own pace. Dinner awaits in a relaxed setting, followed by an overnight stay by the sea.

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Private transfer from the airport
• Overnight in Negombo at the hotel of the chosen category

DAY 2: NEGOMBO – SIGIRIYA 

Journey north to Sigiriya after breakfast, pausing at the Golden Temple of Dambulla, where centuries-old cave murals and serene Buddha statues illuminate the island’s spiritual heritage. Continue through the heart of the Cultural Triangle for a bike tour, a catamaran glide across a quiet reservoir, and an intimate look at village life, ending with an authentic lunch. Check into your Sigiriya hotel and enjoy a brief Ayurvedic massage before an easygoing evening and dinner.

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Depart for Sigiriya
• Visit to the Golden Temple of Dambulla included 
• Continue your journey towards Sigiriya
• 1 x traditional lunch during a visit to a local village (excluding drinks) 
• 1 x 10-minute complimentary Ayurvedic massage at Sigiriya Hotel
• Overnight in Sigiriya at the hotel of the chosen category 

DAY 3: SIGIRIYA 

Start the day with a sunrise ascent of Pidurangala Rock, where vast views unfold over the forest canopy and the majestic Lion Rock opposite. Spend the afternoon either exploring further, perhaps with a thrilling jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, or relaxing back at the hotel. Dinner is served at your Sigiriya retreat, surrounded by nature.

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Ascend Pidurangala Rock at 4 am to witness the stunning sunrise 
• Optional jeep safari in Minneriya National Park (available at the next stage of the booking process at an extra price)
• Overnight in Sigiriya at the hotel of the chosen category

Before leaving Sigiriya, enjoy a scenic swing experience near the fortress for a memorable final view of the region. Travel south to Kandy with stops at the Matale Ayurvedic Village and Nalanda Gedige, then continue to Bahirawakanda Temple for sweeping panoramas over the city. Settle into your Kandy hotel for dinner and a restful night.

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Enjoy a thrilling swing ride at "Swing in Sigiriya", a popular tourist attraction near the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, offering breathtaking views perfect for unforgettable photos
• Optional Sigiriya Rock visit (available at the next stage of the booking process at an extra price)
• Upon arrival in Kandy, visit the Bahirawakanda Temple, perched on a hill offering panoramic views of the city
• Overnight in Kandy at the hotel of the chosen category

DAY 5: KANDY

Begin with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to witness the morning ceremony, a moving ritual set within one of the island’s most revered sites. A tuk-tuk tour brings you through Kandy’s bustling streets and artisan workshops before an evening cultural performance. Return to your hotel for dinner and a peaceful night in the highlands.

• Breakfast included
• Visit the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), a monumental architectural heritage of the whole country 
• Attend the traditional religious ceremony at 9.30 am (modest attire required)
• Continue with a tuk-tuk tour around Kandy, visiting local craft workshops (batik, wood carving) 
• In the evening, experience a traditional cultural performance showcasing Sri Lanka's rich heritage
• Overnight in Kandy at the hotel of the chosen category 

DAY 6: KANDY – HAPUTALE

Board the scenic train for the legendary ride to Haputale, where clouds drift across cliffs and stop at a tea estate to learn how Ceylon tea is crafted amid misty emerald slopes. 

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Embark on one of the country’s most picturesque train journeys between Nanu Oya and Haputale
• En route to Haputale, visit a tea plantation and factory to discover the secrets of Sri Lanka's famous Ceylon tea
• Overnight in Haputale at the hotel of the chosen category

Please note: Train travel in Sri Lanka is an experience not to be missed. The railway line weaves through scenic hills and untouched landscapes, following the historic route built in the 19th century. Regardless of the exact route taken, this journey is certain to be unforgettable. Train schedules may be subject to changes, with potential delays or overbooking. Should the train be unavailable or delayed, an alternative vehicle will be arranged to continue the journey to Ella. Train travel is on a local service, which may be less comfortable than other forms of transport.

DAY 7: TISSAMAHARAMA 

A gateway to Sri Lanka’s best wildlife encounters, Tissamaharama (Tissa) is the perfect base for exploring Yala and Bundala National Parks. Tranquil lakes, ancient stupas, and sprawling rice paddies set a peaceful backdrop before thrilling safaris in search of leopards, elephants, and exotic birdlife. As the sun sets, flocks of birds return to roost, turning the sky into a spectacle of movement and colour.

• Breakfast & dinner included
• Early morning hike to Ella Rock (at 4 am) for breathtaking views of the verdant valley and lush green mountain peaks
• Dinner and overnight in Tissamaharama at the hotel of the chosen category 

Drive south toward the coast, stopping at the fortified city of Galle to wander through cobbled lanes lined with Dutch-era mansions and ocean-facing ramparts. Continue to Wadduwa to check into your beachfront hotel for an all inclusive stay. Enjoy dinner overlooking the Indian Ocean’s rolling waves.

• All inclusive (see details)
• Tissamaharama → Galle
• Discover Galle Dutch Fort: a UNESCO World Heritage site with a blend of local and European architecture
• Galle → Wadduwa

DAY 9: WADDUWA/KALUTARA

Spend a leisurely day on quiet beaches, lingering between palm-shaded loungers, warm sea breezes, and gentle ocean swims. Explore the area if you wish, with easy access to nearby villages and coastal viewpoints. Return for dinner and another restful night at your seaside hotel.

• All inclusive (see details)
• Unwind on the pristine beaches & explore the area at your own pace
• Dinner and overnight at the hotel of the chosen category 

DAY 10: DEPART OR OPT TO CONTINUE

After breakfast, depart for Bandaranaike International Airport if your journey concludes here, allowing ample time for a smooth return flight. Those extending their stay may continue enjoying the hotel’s calm atmosphere and coastal comforts at their own pace.

• Breakfast included
• Private transfer to the airport
• Depart from the hotel approximately 5 hours before your flight

At each of your stops, you will be staying in comfortable rooms in Standard (4*) or in Upgraded (4* & 5*) hotels for a peaceful stay.

Standard hotels:

• Negombo: stay at a 3* hotel (tbc)
• Sigiriya: Kassapa Lion Rock 4* (or similar)
• Kandy: Topaz Hotel 4* (or similar)
• Haputale/Bandarawela: Bandarawela Hotel 3* (or similar)
• Tissamaharama: Elephant Reach 4* (or similar)
• Wadduwa/Kalutara: Mermaid Hotel & Club 4*

Upgraded hotels:

• Negombo: Club Hotel Dolphine 4* (or similar)
• Sigiriya: Cinnamon Lodge 5* (or similar)
• Kandy: Earl's Regency 5* (or similar)
• Haputale: Grand Beragala 5* (or similar)
• Tissamaharama: Double Tree by Hilton 5* (or similar)
• Wadduwa/Kalutara: Blue Water Hotel and Spa 5*

If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.

Enjoy the company of an English-speaking local guide during your trip, and make the very most of your stay. 

Stay connected on the move with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your included eSIM and enjoy connection wherever you go. Easily share your internet connection with friends and family without limits.

Please note: 3GB of internet data represents around 30 hours of web browsing/audio streaming or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming/social networking/video calls.

Enjoy a Jeep safari through Minneriya National Park, Kaudulla National Park, or Eco Park. These Habarana-area reserves are among the finest places in Sri Lanka to observe wild elephants, often in impressively large herds.

Discover the majesty of Sigiriya (The Lion Rock), an iconic site in Sri Lanka, with a unique climbing experience. Get ready to climb the rock-carved stairs to the top of the fortress, past murals and hanging gardens, and enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

Embark on a guided safari adventure in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's second largest and most visited national park. 

Arriving early? Secure early check-in with breakfast and begin your day in comfort and style.

Arriving early? Secure early check-in with breakfast and begin your day in comfort and style.

The Mermaid Hotel & Club 4* rises along Kalutara’s coast, its low white façades punctuated by terraces that frame the wild Indian Ocean. Palm fronds sway in the salty breeze, mingling with the faint hum of waves on the shore. Courtyards and balconies open onto gardens where hibiscus and frangipani release their fragrance, and the distant rhythm of local fishing boats sets a quiet, restorative pulse to the day.

Beyond the hotel, the shoreline stretches in golden curves, dotted with coconut groves and the occasional stilt fisherman. Kalutara’s temple towers rise above the town, while the historic Dutch Fort of Galle lies just a scenic drive away. Guests can explore spice gardens, watch the sun sink behind the lagoon, or savour fresh seafood at a nearby coastal eatery, each moment threaded with the scents, colours, and stories of southern Sri Lanka.

Superior Rooms open onto the gentle hum of the Indian Ocean, where sunlight warms rich teak furnishings and hand-woven fabrics. Soft fabrics and natural textures create a serene, tactile atmosphere, while the scent of sea salt drifts through open windows, inviting quiet reflection and effortless comfort in a beachside sanctuary.

This is an all inclusive stay. Your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information. 

Planning a trip for the festive period? Guests booking to stay on Christmas Eve (24th December) or New Year’s Eve (31st December) have a gala dinner included in their booking.  

In the Sahana Spa, fragrant oils and warm steam ease tension as therapists perform traditional massages. Guests can relax in the sauna or Jacuzzi, where soft lighting creates a calm and restorative atmosphere. The gym is bright and open, perfect for energising workouts, while the studio hosts water aerobics and yoga beside one of the two outdoor swimming pools.

For more active leisure, the sports centre invites spirited play with courts for squash, badminton, and volleyball. Croquet, boccia, darts, and a mini cricket pitch offer playful variety under the tropical sun and the sound of gentle laughter.

Sinharaja presents the characteristic features of a tropical rainforest. Sinharaja Rainforest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the last remaining rainforest in Sri Lanka and is home to most (almost 95%) of Sri Lanka’s endemic birdlife, giant butterflies and more than 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic mammals.

Explore the rich Sri Lankan wildlife of Udawalawe National Park, discover spectacular scenery and enjoy an authentic safari experience. Travel in a jeep with a team of expert drivers who will guide you through picturesque trails on an unforgettable adventure.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Negombo with this unique guided tour. 

Immerse yourself in a day rich in discovery in Galle, a city steeped in history, biodiversity and adventure. Explore Galle's magnificent Fort, meet turtles at a dedicated hatchery, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the picturesque Madu River.

Nestled within a wild coconut grove along a pristine stretch of Sri Lanka's west coast, the opulent Blue Water Hotel and Spa 5* offers a unique holiday experience. Here, the brilliant Sri Lankan sun and blissful luxury come together to create the perfect retreat.

Enjoy lavish accommodations, first-class dining, and an indulgent spa. The expansive swimming pool invites you to unwind and relax in this tropical paradise.

Catch a break from the sun in the elegant and intimate Deluxe Room offering tasteful and cosy furnishings with smart decor, luxury amenities and exceptional views from the balcony or terrace.

This is an all inclusive stay. Your breakfast, lunch, and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant, with a selection of snacks and drinks. Please see the ‘details’ tab for more information. 

Planning a trip for the festive period? Guests booking to stay on Christmas Eve (24th December) or New Year’s Eve (31st December) have a gala dinner included in their booking.  

Indulge yourself and your senses with a soothing full-body massage that'll both relax and rejuvenate you physically and spiritually or treat yourself to a sumptuous facial ritual that'll nourish the skin and give you a dazzling glow.

When at the Blue Water Hotel and Spa 5*, be sure to spend some time out by the hotel's colossal swimming pool with plenty of loungers under the radiant Sri Lankan sun and shade-providing palm trees. 

Sri Lanka's Madhu River Boat Safari offers a peaceful immersion into a landscape of mangroves and islets with a rich biodiversity. The trip takes in cinnamon plantations, birdwatchers and local fishermen, for an authentic and relaxing experience.

Sinharaja presents the characteristic features of a tropical rainforest. Sinharaja Rainforest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the last remaining rainforest in Sri Lanka and is home to most (almost 95%) of Sri Lanka’s endemic birdlife, giant butterflies and more than 50% of Sri Lanka’s endemic mammals.

Explore the rich Sri Lankan wildlife of Udawalawe National Park, discover spectacular scenery and enjoy an authentic safari experience. Travel in a jeep with a team of expert drivers who will guide you through picturesque trails on an unforgettable adventure.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Negombo with this unique guided tour. 

Immerse yourself in a day rich in discovery in Galle, a city steeped in history, biodiversity and adventure. Explore Galle's magnificent Fort, meet turtles at a dedicated hatchery, and enjoy a peaceful boat ride on the picturesque Madu River.

Sri Lanka, a small island nation with a 2,000-year-old culture, is a treasure trove of natural beauty and ancient heritage. Home to eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country offers a fascinating blend of history, wildlife, and culture. Often overlooked by travellers heading to India or Asia, Sri Lanka remains one of the region's best-kept secrets.

Must-sees:

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress: A UNESCO-listed ancient citadel, offering dramatic views, frescoes, and rich historical significance.
• Ella: A hill town surrounded by lush tea plantations, ideal for scenic hikes like Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.
• Yala National Park: A wildlife haven, where safaris offer opportunities to see leopards, elephants, and diverse birdlife.

Culinary culture:

Sri Lankan cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of bold flavours and fresh ingredients. Rice and curry, with its spiced vegetable, meat, or fish options, is a staple of the local diet. Hoppers, crispy rice pancakes, are a beloved dish, served with eggs or sweetened. Coastal areas excel in fresh seafood, with delicacies such as fish ambul thiyal (tangy fish curry) and crab curries. Street food like kottu roti, a stir-fry of flatbread with vegetables and meat, is a must-try, while desserts such as watalappam and tropical fruits like Mangosteen offer a refreshing finish.

Dive deeper:

Beyond the famous attractions, Sri Lanka’s charm lies in its lesser-known gems. Galle Fort is a colonial-era city filled with boutiques, cafes, and history. A scenic train ride from Kandy to Ella is considered one of the world’s most picturesque journeys. For a more unique experience, visit Jaffna in the north, where you’ll encounter Tamil culture and peaceful, untouched beaches.

Good to know:

The official currency is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). The ideal time to visit varies by region - the south and west coasts are ideal from November to April, while the east coast is preferable from May to September. Tuk-tuks are great for short trips, while scenic train routes and private drivers offer flexibility for exploring.