This enchanting journey through Sri Lanka invites you to uncover a land where timeless heritage meets breathtaking natural beauty. Your adventure begins on the sun-kissed sands of Negombo, before weaving through storied ancient cities, mist-cloaked highlands, and the emerald slopes of tea country, concluding in the vibrant heart of Colombo. Along the way, each moment reveals a tapestry of UNESCO World Heritage treasures, vivid cultural traditions, exotic wildlife, and the gracious warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality.

Wander among sacred temples and majestic fortresses, be captivated by the rhythm of traditional dance, pedal through the remnants of royal kingdoms, and glide by train through landscapes draped in emerald green. Sip the world’s finest Ceylon tea where it grows, and stand in awe as elephants roam freely in their natural sanctuary.

Your itinerary:

Day 1: Arrival in Negombo
Day 2: Dambulla / Habarana
Day 3: Sigiriya
Day 4: Polonnaruwa & Minneriya National Park Safari
Day 5: Kandy
Day 6: Nelligala & Udawatta Forest
Day 7: Scenic train to Nuwara Eliya
Day 8: Tea Plantation visit & Colombo
Day 9: Departure from Colombo

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you’ll be met by your guide and transferred to your hotel in Negombo. If time permits, enjoy a brief city tour including a walk through the bustling fish market, a visit to the historic St. Mary’s Church, the Dutch Fort, and the serene Negombo Lagoon.

Dinner included

Overnight in Negombo 

DAY 2: NEGOMBO - DAMBULLA 

After breakfast, journey towards Dambulla, stopping en route at the ancient Ridi Viharaya, or Silver Temple, a revered Buddhist shrine dating back to the 2nd century BC. Upon arrival, savour a complimentary local lunch before checking into your hotel. Enjoy a 10-minute head and shoulder massage, then later immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of a traditional cultural dance show in Sigiriya.

Full board included

Overnight in Dambulla

DAY 3: SIGIRIYA

Following an early breakfast, visit the iconic Sigiriya Lion Rock, a UNESCO World Heritage Site often called the “8th Wonder of the World.” Climb to the summit for sweeping views and admire ancient frescoes along the way. Pause for a complimentary “Swing in Sigiriya” experience, offering spectacular photo opportunities. After lunch, enjoy a hands-on pottery-making experience with a local artisan.

Half board included

Overnight in Dambulla 

After breakfast, set out for a guided cycle tour of the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Ride around the vast Parackrama Samudra reservoir and explore centuries-old ruins. Enjoy an authentic local lunch following a cookery demonstration, then in the late afternoon, embark on a jeep safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla, or Eco Park - whichever offers the best elephant sightings on the day.

Full board included

Overnight in Dambulla

DAY 5: DAMBULLA - KANDY

Depart for Kandy, stopping at a spice garden in Matale to learn about Sri Lanka’s fragrant bounty. Continue to Kandy for a city tour by tuk-tuk, visiting a Batik and woodcarving centre, and pause for a photo stop at Bahirawakanda Temple with its towering Buddha statue. In the evening, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Half board included

Overnight in Kandy

DAY 6: KANDY

After breakfast, visit the Nelligala International Buddhist Centre, perched atop a scenic hill with panoramic views of the Knuckles Range. Return to Kandy for lunch, then embark on a guided hike through the Udawatta Kele Forest Reserve, home to over 400 plant species. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon to unwind as you wish. 

Full board included 

Overnight in Kandy

This morning, board a scenic train from Kandy to Nanu Oya, travelling through lush hills, waterfalls, and tea plantations. Upon arrival, enjoy a city tour of Nuwara Eliya, known as “Little England” for its colonial charm and cool climate. Afterwards, check into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day to relax up in the hills.

Half board included 

Overnight in Nuwara Eliya

DAY 8: NUWARA ELIYA - COLOMBO

After breakfast, visit a working tea plantation and factory to learn the art of producing world-famous Ceylon tea. Enjoy lunch at a local restaurant before continuing to Colombo for a brief city tour, taking in highlights such as Independence Square, Gangaramaya Temple, and Galle Face Green.

Full board included 

Overnight in Colombo

DAY 9: DEPARTURE FROM COLOMBO

After one last breakfast, transfer to the airport for your homebound flight. 

During your trip, enjoy stays in carefully handpicked Standard hotels or 5* hotels, depending on your choice: 

Standard:

Negombo: Pledge Scape 4* (or similar)

Dambulla: Amaya Lake 4* (or similar)

Kandy: Amaya Hilla 4* (or similar)

Nuwara Eliya: Highland Stone House (or similar)

Colombo: Kingsbury Colombo 5* (or similar)

5* hotels (except night 1):

Negombo: Goldi Sands 4* +

Dambulla: Cinnamon Lodge 5* (or similar)

Kandy: Earls Regency 5* (or similar)

Nuwara Eliya: Golden Ridge 5* (or similar)

Colombo: Kingsbury Colombo 5* (or similar)

An experienced English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the tour, bringing each destination’s history and culture to life.

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.

Explore the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa, where 11th–13th century ruins, sculptures, and royal landmarks span the Dalada Maluwa, northern monuments, and royal citadel.

Enjoy the convenience of an early check-in upgrade, allowing you to settle in and start your stay as soon as you arrive.

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.