DAY 6: WELIMADA / ELLA / WELLAWAYA
We Love —
- Our travel experts, here to help you plan your perfect escape to paradise. Call 0800 988 000 on weekdays from 11am - 7pm and say hello.
- Witnessing the sunset over Galle Fort’s ancient ramparts, with golden hues reflecting off the Indian Ocean, a stunning moment included in your journey.
- Indulging in a warm, crispy hopper topped with a perfectly runny egg, paired with spicy sambol, a beloved Sri Lankan breakfast delight.
New Voyage Privé —
Carefully selected by our experts especially for you
Your itinerary in brief —
Set off on an exceptional journey through Sri Lanka, a land of contrasts. From vibrant Colombo to the tea plantations of Nuwara Eliya, via a climb to the majestic rock of Sigiriya, each stop will be an immersion in the country's history and nature.
Meet passionate artisans, savour local specialities and observe wildlife on a safari in Yala. Finish your adventure in the enchanting atmosphere of Galle, between heavenly beaches and colonial vestiges. An unforgettable journey to the heart of an island of a thousand treasures.
Your itinerary:
Day 1: Arrival in Colombo
Day 2: Colombo / Ganemulla / Kurunegala / Dambulla
Day 3: Dambulla / Sigiriya / Habarana / Dambulla
Day 4: Dambulla / Matale / Kandy
Day 5: Kandy / Nanu Oya / Welimada
Day 6: Welimada / Ella / Wellawaya
Day 7: Wellawaya / Yala
Day 8: Yala / Galle
Day 9: Galle - 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 Colombo
- Upon your early arrival at Colombo Airport, you will be welcomed by your guide with flower necklaces.
- Drive to Colombo and check in at your hotel.
- Enjoy a guided tour of the city of Colombo. We suggest:
- Galle Face Green, Independence Square and the Fort district were built in the 15th century by the Portuguese. This district is dominated by the two 34-storey towers of the World Trade Centre and the Clock Tower, a former lighthouse.
- At the end of the afternoon, you can take part in a plate painting workshop in a friendly atmosphere. It's a creative way to relax and explore the art of plaque painting while sharing ideas with other participants.*
- Return to your hotel for a peaceful night.
*Participants will leave with a hand-painted plaque as a souvenir. Open to beginners and art lovers aged 12 and over. All the necessary equipment will be provided (plates, paints, brushes, stencils).
DAY 2: COLOMBO / GANEMULLA / KURUNEGALA / DAMBULLA
- Enjoy your first breakfast at the hotel, then depart for Dambulla via Ganemulla and Kurunegala.
- Stop in Ganemulla to visit the Kadadasi handmade paper recycling factory. This family-run business produces paper from 100% natural raw materials and is socially committed to providing a safe working environment for its employees. You will learn about the process of making recycled paper by hand.
- Continue to Dambulla.
- Visit the Ridi Viharaya monastery, where you will meet the head monk, who will bless your journey. Enjoy a guided tour of the Ridi Viharaya temple to soak up its atmosphere. Eat a delicious local lunch on site.
- Arrive at your hotel and settle in. Take some time in the afternoon at leisure to enjoy your accommodation. Overnight at the hotel.
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Day 3: Dambulla / Sigiriya / Habarana / Dambulla
- After eating breakfast at the hotel, depart for the ascent of the Lion Rock of Sigiriya.
- Next, head to Sevanagama village: walk through the rice fields and countryside that will take you to a farm where tropical vegetables and fruits are grown. You will be welcomed in a traditional bamboo and mud house and get the opportunity to try a local cooking class and a typical Sri Lankan lunch.
- Return to the village by ‘oruwa’ canoe on Lake Hiriwaduna, an opportunity for birdwatching.
- Then, visit a nursery school (outside school holidays) with the opportunity to distribute school supplies.
- At the end of the afternoon, witness a cultural dance performance at the Habarana Cultural Centre.
- Finally, return to Dambulla for a good night's sleep.
DAY 4: DAMBULLA / MATALE / KANDY
- Breakfast at the hotel, then drive to Kandy via Matale.
- Arrive in Matale and take a walk off the beaten track through the village of Sudu Ganga. Meet the locals, discover their daily lives and cross the rubber plantations.
- Start by visiting a spice garden, followed by a traditional massage using natural products.
- Then, proceed to visit the Hindu temple of Matale.
- Arrive in Kandy and set off on an enchanting city tour. Explore its vibrant districts and discover the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth.
- Delve into the rich history of the Dalada Maligawa, home to the sacred Buddha tooth—an esteemed relic and a powerful symbol of Sri Lanka’s heritage.
- After this captivating experience, check in to your hotel and unwind for the evening. Overnight at the hotel.
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Day 5: Kandy / Nanu Oya / Welimada
- After breakfast, travel by local train to Nuwara Eliya (subject to availability, otherwise by car). This scenic train journey passes through mountains, waterfalls and tea plantations.
- Arrive in Nanu Oya, meet your driver and continue to Welimada.
- Enjoy a private visit to a tea plantation and factory, with tea tasting included.
- Check-in at the Jetwing Welimada Villa, located in the heart of a 100-hectare tea plantation. Overnight at the hotel.
- Eat a hearty breakfast, then drive to Wellawaya via Ella. The village of Ella is surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, including the famous Rawana Ella Falls.
- First, climb Little Adam's Peak (1-hour walk), offering 360° panoramic views of the valley and Ella Rock.
- Continue to Wellawaya. In the late afternoon, cycle through an authentic village to meet the locals.
- Make your way to the hotel and settle in for a restful night.
Day 7: Wellawaya / Yala
- Start your day with a leisurely breakfast, followed by a peaceful morning to relax and enjoy the stunning views from your hotel.
- Afterwards, embark on a scenic drive to Yala, where your adventure continues.
- Upon arrival, prepare for an exhilarating 4x4 safari through Yala National Park. As you journey through its varied landscapes, keep your eyes peeled for wild elephants, buffalo, leopards, bears, deer, and crocodiles, not to mention the numerous species of birds, both migratory and native.
- After an unforgettable day of exploration, return to your hotel for a restful night.
DAY 8: YALA / GALLE
- After breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to the charming city of Galle.
- Once there, immerse yourself in the rich history of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you wander through the cobbled streets, you’ll discover colonial houses, as well as iconic landmarks such as the lighthouse, mosque, Dutch church, and the historic New Orient Hotel.
- Then, check into your hotel for a relaxing overnight stay.
DAY 9: GALLE / DEPARTURE
- Enjoy your last breakfast and take the morning to unwind at your own pace.
- Later, transfer to the airport for your return flight. As you board, sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious meal on board as you reflect on your unforgettable journey.
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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 without affecting the overall experience of the itinerary.
Your hotels —
Hand-picked just for you
During your getaway, you will stay in Standard rooms in Jetwing hotels (or similar).
Your accommodation:
- Colombo: Jetwing Colombo Seven 5*
- Dambulla : Jetwing Lake 5*
- Kandy: Jetwing Kandy Gallery 5* Boutique
- Welimada: Jetwing Welimada Villa Luxury boutique
- Wellawaya: Jetwing Kaduruketha 5* Eco Luxury
- Yala: Jetwing Yala 5*
- Galle: Jetwing Heritage Home Luxury Villa
If the hotels listed above are unavailable, you will be provided with comfortable accommodation in similar hotels. Local standards apply.
Maximum room capacity is 3 adults or 2 adults + 1 child. Single rooms are not available.
Your dining choices
During your time in Sri Lanka, enjoy a bed and breakfast stay. You can also opt for half-board (excluding drinks) or full-board (excluding drinks) at an additional cost.
Choose to upgrade to half board at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Treat yourself to a full board stay and upgrade at the next step of the booking process. Breakfast, lunch and your evening meal will be served in the main restaurant (drinks excluded, conditions apply.)
Your included extras —
English-speaking driver guide throughout your tour
Enhance your holiday experience with an included English-speaking driver guide throughout your tour.
Complimentary 1GB of mobile data
Stay connected on your travels with this exclusive mobile internet offer, perfect for modern travellers. Activate your complimentary eSIM and stay connected wherever you go. Share your hotspot, keep in touch with home, and explore without worrying about roaming charges. Check that your phone is eSIM compatible here.
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.
