We love —
- Travelling to magnificent Sri Lanka and uncovering its rich cultural heritage, fascinating history, and stunning natural landscapes.
- Exploring awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage Sites while savouring the island’s vibrant and delicious cuisine throughout your stay.
- Soaking up the warm Indian Ocean breeze and golden sands along Balapitiya’s serene coastline, surrounded by tropical greenery.
Customer reviews —
Discover Sri Lanka through its four most captivating highlights: rich cultural heritage, authentic local experiences, spectacular hill-country scenery and unforgettable adventures. Explore UNESCO treasures, experience local traditions and discover Kandy by tuk-tuk before enjoying a scenic train journey through tea-covered mountains and hiking Pidurangala and Ella Rock. Finally, unwind with two relaxing nights at Aaya Cove Villas on Sri Lanka’s beautiful western coast.
Welcome to Sri Lanka —
Experience the many faces of Sri Lanka with a captivating 9-night journey through ancient temples, lush countryside, misty tea plantations and wildlife-rich landscapes. Travel from Negombo to Sigiriya, Kandy, Haputale and Tissamaharama, discovering the island’s cultural treasures and spectacular scenery before continuing to the coast.
Opt for Offer 2 and continue your journey to Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*, set along Sri Lanka’s unspoiled southern coastline and surrounded by tropical gardens and the Indian Ocean. Relax beside the infinity pool, enjoy Ayurvedic wellness experiences or spend your days on the beach before savouring fresh Sri Lankan flavours at the Tangerine Restaurant & Bar. Choose from 5 to 9 nights on the coast, creating a seamless combination of discovery and relaxation.
Our offers:
Offer 1: 9-night Sri Lanka 4* tour
Offer 2: 9-night Sri Lanka 4* tour & beach extension
- 14 nights: 9-night Sri Lanka tour + 5 nights at Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*
- 15 nights: 9-night Sri Lanka tour + 6 nights at Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*
- 16 nights: 9-night Sri Lanka tour + 7 nights at Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*
- 17 nights: 9-night Sri Lanka tour + 8 nights at Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*
- 18 nights: 9-night Sri Lanka tour + 9 nights at Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5*
Your itinerary in brief —
DURATION: 9 nights
BEST FOR: Once in a lifetime
PACE: Active
Explore Sri Lanka:
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 itinerary:
- Day 1: Arrival in Negombo
- Day 2: Negombo → Sigiriya/Dambulla
- Day 3: Sigiriya/Dambulla
- Day 4: Sigiriya/Dambulla → Kandy
- Day 5: Kandy
- Day 6: Kandy → Haputale
- Day 7: Haputale → Tissamaharama
- Day 8: Tissamaharama → Wadduwa
- Day 9: Wadduwa
- Day 10: Wadduwa → Negombo - Departure
Please note: Your itinerary may have minor adjustments, but your overall trip experience will remain the same.
Your itinerary in detail —
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN NEGOMBO
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN NEGOMBO
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), where your guide will welcome you before accompanying you to your hotel in Negombo. Settle into the relaxed rhythm of Sri Lanka as you check in and take time to unwind after your journey. Later, enjoy your first taste of the island’s flavours over dinner before settling in for the night.
Included:
- Dinner
- Private transfer from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
- Night at Pledge Scape Negombo 4* or Tamarind Tree Garden Resort 4*
DAY 2: NEGOMBO → SIGIRIYA/DAMBULLA
After breakfast, leave Negombo behind and travel towards Sigiriya, with Sri Lanka’s lush countryside unfolding along the way. Stop at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, where five atmospheric caves shelter ancient Buddha images and richly coloured paintings beneath the rock face. Continue to Sigiriya and enjoy a traditional village experience, cycling through the countryside before gliding across a reservoir by catamaran. Meet local villagers, wander among vegetable crops and enjoy an authentic Sri Lankan lunch in a village home, followed by a 10-minute Ayurvedic massage at your hotel.
Included:
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Visit to Dambulla Cave Temple
- Cycling and traditional village experience with catamaran ride
- 10-minute Ayurvedic massage
- Night at Kassapa Lion Rock 4* or Tropical Life Resort & Spa 4*
DAY 3: SIGIRIYA/DAMBULLA
For an unforgettable start to the day, opt for an early morning hike up Pidurangala Rock, where the rising sun illuminates the forests, lakes and distant hills surrounding Sigiriya. After breakfast, discover the remarkable setting of Sigiriya Lion Rock, an ancient fortress framed by lush gardens and dramatic tropical scenery. A complimentary swing ride offers another perspective over the landscape and the perfect opportunity for photographs. Return to your hotel and take the afternoon to relax before dinner.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to Pidurangala Rock
- Free swing ride at Swing in Sigiriya
- Night at Kassapa Lion Rock 4* or Tropical Life Resort & Spa 4*
Optional:
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco Park Jeep Safari
DAY 4: SIGIRIYA/DAMBULLA → KANDY
Journey towards Kandy after breakfast, travelling through verdant countryside towards the island’s hill country. In Matale, explore an Ayurvedic spice village and discover the scents and traditional uses of Sri Lanka’s celebrated spices, followed by a visit to Nalanda Gedige, a fascinating blend of South Indian and Sinhalese architecture. Arrive in Kandy and head to Bahirawakanda Temple, where a monumental Buddha statue overlooks the city and surrounding hills. Check into your hotel and unwind before dinner.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to an Ayurvedic spice village in Matale
- Visit to Nalanda Gedige
- Visit to Bahirawakanda Temple
- Night at Hotel Topaz Kandy 4* or Mount Randholee Resorts & Spa 4*
DAY 5: KANDY
Begin the day with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth, arriving in time to witness the traditional Pooja ceremony at this revered Buddhist site. Afterwards, explore Kandy by tuk-tuk, passing the waters of Kandy Lake and the bustling streets of this historic hill city before discovering local craftsmanship at a batik and wood carving centre. The afternoon is yours to enjoy at your own pace, before an evening Kandyan cultural show brings traditional music and dance to life. Return to your hotel for dinner.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to the Temple of the Tooth and Pooja ceremony
- Kandy city tour by tuk-tuk
- Visit to a batik and wood carving centre
- Kandyan cultural dance show
- Night at Hotel Topaz Kandy 4* or Mount Randholee Resorts & Spa 4*
DAY 6: KANDY → HAPUTALE
After breakfast, leave Kandy behind and journey into Sri Lanka’s beautiful hill country, where emerald tea plantations cover the slopes. Visit a tea plantation and factory to discover the craft behind Ceylon Tea, with the fragrant aroma of freshly processed leaves in the air. Continue by train from Ambewela to Ella, travelling through misty hills, verdant valleys and rural landscapes along one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic railway routes. From Ella, continue by private vehicle to Haputale and settle into your hotel for the evening.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to a tea plantation and factory with tea-plucking experience
- Scenic train ride from Ambewela to Ella
- Night at Melheim Resort & Spa Haputale 4* or Mount Hunt Resort Beragala 4*
DAY 7: HAPUTALE → TISSAMAHARAMA
Begin the day with the option to climb Ella Rock before sunrise, following a scenic trail through countryside and tea plantations to a spectacular viewpoint over the verdant valleys below. After breakfast, continue towards Tissamaharama, with the landscapes gradually changing from the cool highlands to the warmer southern plains. If you choose the optional Yala National Park safari, set out by jeep in the afternoon in search of Sri Lankan elephants, leopards and other wildlife across the park’s diverse landscapes. Return to your hotel in Tissamaharama for dinner and a relaxing evening.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Night at Kithala Resort 4* or Elephant Reach Hotel 4*
Optional:
- Ella Rock climb
- Yala National Park Jeep Safari
DAY 8: TISSAMAHARAMA → WADDUWA
After breakfast, leave Tissamaharama behind and travel west towards the coast, following Sri Lanka’s tropical southern landscapes to Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Dutch Fort, wandering along its historic ramparts and atmospheric streets where colonial architecture meets Indian Ocean views. Continue towards Wadduwa, arriving at your beachfront hotel where the remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy the coastal setting. Settle in with dinner and unwind after your journey.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Visit to Galle Dutch Fort
- Night at Villas Wadduwa 4*
DAY 9: WADDUWA
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before spending the day at your own pace in Wadduwa. With the Indian Ocean nearby, take time to relax at your hotel, feel the warmth of the tropical coast and enjoy a slower rhythm after the adventures of the past week. Whether you choose to unwind by the pool or explore the surrounding coastline, the day is yours to enjoy before dinner at the hotel.
Included:
- Breakfast and dinner
- Night at Villas Wadduwa 4*
DAY 10: WADDUWA → NEGOMBO - DEPARTURE
Enjoy your final breakfast in Sri Lanka before checking out and beginning your journey towards Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB). As you travel north, take in the last glimpses of the island’s tropical landscapes and coastal scenery. Arrive at the airport in good time for your departure flight, bringing your Sri Lankan adventure to a close.
Included:
- Breakfast
- Private transfer from Wadduwa to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)
Important information about your tour and visits The hotels, which comply with local standards, are indicative and may be changed locally for hotels of a similar category. The itinerary is subject to changes due to compelling reasons such as delayed flights, weather conditions or other cases of force majeure. The order of visits is also subject to change
Your hotels —
Just for you:
Hand-picked just for you
At each of your stops, you will be staying in thoughtfully selected 4* hotels.
Your hotels (or similar):
- Negombo: Pledge Scape Negombo 4* or Tamarind Tree Garden Resort 4*
- Sigiriya/Dambulla: Kassapa Lion Rock 4* or Tropical Life Resort and Spa 4*
- Kandy: Topaz Hotel 4* or Mount Randholee Resorts and Spa 4*
- Haputale: Melheim Resort and Spa Haputale 4* or Mount Hunt Resort Beragala 4*
- Tissamaharama: Kithala Resort 4* or Elephant Reach Hotel 4*
- Wadduwa: Villas Wadduwa 4*
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity: 3 adults or 2 adults + 1 child. Single rooms are not available.
Your dining choices
This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
Included extras —
English-speaking guide
Benefit from the expertise of an English-speaking guide throughout your journey, ensuring seamless navigation, local insight, and a richer cultural experience.
3 GB of mobile data included per adult traveller
Every adult traveller receives 3 GB of mobile data via an included eSIM. Once activated, you can enjoy internet access wherever you are and share your connection with your loved ones, without the risk of exceeding your data allowance.
Please note: 3 GB of mobile data is equivalent to approximately 30 hours of web browsing or audio streaming, or 3 to 4 hours of video streaming, social media use or video calls.
Optional excursions —
Day 4: Sigiriya Rock Fortress (2 people minimum)
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.
Day 7: Jeep safari to Yala National Park (minimum 2 people)
Embark on a guided safari adventure in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's second largest and most visited national park.
Day 3: Jeep safari in Minneriya National Park (2 people minimum)
Set off on an unforgettable adventure in the Minneriya National Park on a jeep safari to see some of Sri Lanka's exceptional wildlife.
Optional services —
Early check-in (with breakfast)
Enhance your stay with early check-in and breakfast, giving you more time to settle in and start enjoying your holiday.
Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5* —
Aavya Cove Villas by Aahaasa 5* offers an intimate coastal retreat in Balapitiya, framed by tropical gardens and the vast Indian Ocean. Warm breezes carry the scent of greenery and salt air, while birdsong and the distant sound of waves create a soothing natural soundtrack. There is an effortless sense of privacy throughout, with lush surroundings and open-air spaces inviting slow mornings, peaceful afternoons and evenings shaped by the soft coastal air.
Balapitiya opens onto some of southern Sri Lanka’s most captivating landscapes. A boat journey along the Madu River reveals tangled mangroves, tiny islands and waterways alive with birds and wildlife. Nearby Ambalangoda brings colourful masks and centuries-old artistic traditions, while the historic streets of Galle Dutch Fort offer boutiques, cafés and sweeping ocean views. Return along the coast as the scent of spices and tropical flowers fills the warm evening air.
Your room —
Enjoy a stay in a Cove Villa.
Cove Villa (45 m²)
The Villa Cove offers an intimate, refined and comfortable retreat surrounded by lush tropical greenery. Outside, a generous private terrace, courtyard and garden create a secluded setting for relaxing in the warm coastal air. The gardens provide direct access to the ocean, beach gardens and the property’s swimming pool, offering a privileged setting to enjoy the natural beauty and gentle pace of the coastline.
Your dining choices
Just for you:
- 1 x candlelit dinner (per room, per stay)
- 15% discount on food & drinks
This is a half board stay. Your breakfast and evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (excludes drinks).
The Tangerine Restaurant & Bar brings the flavours of Sri Lanka to the table, combining freshly caught seafood with seasonal vegetables and carefully prepared meats. Sri Lankan, Asian and Western dishes are presented with vibrant colours and fragrant spices, while menus can be tailored with the chef to suit individual tastes. Begin with breakfast before enjoying a leisurely lunch or dinner accompanied by the warm aromas of the kitchen. Dining extends beyond the restaurant, with meals served in your villa, on a private terrace, beneath the palms or directly on the beach. Enjoy a leisurely lunch with the sand beneath your feet, then return after sunset for an intimate dinner beneath the stars, paired with a refreshing tropical drink.
Upgrade to all inclusive
Experience ultimate relaxation and upgrade to all inclusive at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch, your evening meal, and a selection of snacks and drinks will be included. Conditions may apply.
Your time
Just for you:
- Complimentary visit to Colombo shopping mall on arrival or departure day
- 1 x 10-minute head & shoulder massage on arrival (per person, per stay)
- 15% discount on spa treatments
Days unfold between the tropical gardens and cool waters of the infinity pool, with shaded lawns providing space to read, play board games or enjoy boules and volleyball. Yoga can be practised outdoors, while massages at the Pavilion bring soothing treatments into the warm island air. At Aarogya Spa & Wellness Centre, traditional Ayurvedic therapies combine with herbal baths, Pilates and infrared sauna treatments for a restorative wellness experience.
The beach provides a natural extension to the resort, perfect for barefoot walks with the sound of the Indian Ocean beside you. For a change of pace, venture out on a mangrove safari or join an early morning fishing trip, discovering the waterways and coastal life around Balapitiya.
Optional excursions —
Day trip to Udawalawe (minimum 2 people)
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.
Sinharaja forest reserve (minimum 2 people)
Explore one of Sri Lanka's ecological treasures with this guided hike in the Sinharaja Forest Reserve. Immerse yourself in the unspoilt natural beauty of this tropical rainforest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Discover Negombo (minimum 2 people)
Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Negombo with this unique guided tour.
Optional services —
Early check-in (with or without breakfast)
Enhance your stay with early check-in, giving you more time to settle in and start enjoying your holiday.
Your journey to Sri Lanka —
Flights:
You will be able to choose your airline and flight times when you make your booking, in either Economy, Premium, or Business class, depending on the destination and carrier. This flight may include one or more stopovers. Please review your flight options carefully as departure and arrival airports may differ, in order to offer the best price.
Luggage information
Luggage, meals and other services on board may be subject to an additional fee on certain airlines. It is possible to view details of luggage allowances when you choose your flights at the next stage of the booking process. If luggage is not included with your flight, please go to the airline's website before your departure to purchase your luggage for an additional fee.
For domestic flights, airlines do not always offer the option of reserving luggage. In this case, you will need to pay for it at the airport counter.
You will receive all the information you need to check in for your flights after you have made your reservation.
Your destination —
Sri Lanka
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.