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Explore the wealth of cultural and natural treasures of Sri Lanka whilst staying in some luxurious properties.

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Indian Subcontinent

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Best time to go

Flight duration, time difference, journey to the teardrop of india, an island of sacred temples, spotted leopards and lush tea plantations.

For a relatively small island, Sri Lanka has remarkable cultural and geographical diversity.

Cox & Kings holidays to Sri Lanka encompass its ancient cities and archaeological UNESCO world heritage sites in the cultural heartland. These provide a fascinating glimpse into the island’s history, which dates back to the fourth century BC.

Inland, the lush hills of Kandy , the last Sinhalese city to fall to the British in the 19th century, showcases local traditions and is home to the sacred Temple of the Tooth and one of Asia’s most beautiful botanical gardens. Kandy is also the natural gateway to Sri Lanka’s tea country. Set against a dramatic landscape, the quaint towns and villages that dot the highlands retain much of their colonial character.

Visitors can also search for leopards in the wildlife reserves or simply relax on the beautiful coast and deserted beaches.

Group Tours and Tailor Made
Accommodation

14 days 13 nights

From £3,995

This group tour for solo travellers explores Sri Lanka’s famed Cultural Triangle and beyond

From £2,395

The teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka contains a wealth of cultural, archaeological and natural treasures

15 days 13 nights

Explore the wealth of cultural and natural treasures of Sri Lanka whilst staying in some of the country's most luxurious and intimate properties

Hidden Sri Lanka

16 days 14 nights

From £4,220

Head off the beaten path to seek out indigenous local tribes and enjoy walks amid stunning scenery, with stays at unique properties and finishing on the palm-fringed south coast

Luxury Sri Lanka by Seaplane

14 days 12 nights

From £7,620

Travel by seaplane staying in some of Sri Lanka’s finest accommodation while exploring the scenic hill country, tropical beaches and the island’s best known national park

13 days 11 nights

From £4,090

Discover the remarkable natural diversity of Sri Lanka, from large mammals in the national parks to the abundant marine life in the waters off the south coast

Treasures of Sri Lanka

From £3,700

Delve into Sri Lanka’s natural and archaeological wonders. Starting from Colombo, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, traverse quaint tea country and tropical rainforests to the jungles of Yala, which has one of the highest wild leopard densities in the world

Jetwing Colombo Seven

Located in central Colombo, within walking distance of the the city’s vibrant cultural, dining and shopping districts, Jetwing Colombo Seven offers a combination of serviced apartments and spacious hotel rooms

Heritance Kandalama

The Heritance Kandalama stands on the shore of an ancient manmade lake, at the foot of a rocky outcrop, which once was the home of hermits who sought isolation for meditation in its caves

Heritance Ahungalla

This five-star property is situated in Ahungalla, a former fishing hamlet

Forest Rock Garden Resort

The eco-friendly Forest Rock Garden hotel is set among 20 hectares of lush forest just 10km from the ancient site of Anuradhapura

Cinnamon Wild Yala

Cinnamon Wild Yala is situated at Kirinda, bordering the Yala Wildlife Sanctuary and the Indian Ocean

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana

Cinnamon Lodge Habarana is set in a 10 hectare woodland on the fringe of a tranquil, ancient irrigation lake. The architecture of the lodge is based on Ritigala, the pre-Christian-era forest monastery near Habarana

Cape Weligama Resort

The luxury Cape Weligama is situated on Sri Lanka’s southern coast

Amangalla derives its name from aman, or ‘peace’ in Sanskrit, and galla, the Sinhalese name for the town of Galle

Jetwing Yala

Situated close to wildlife-rich Yala National Park, Jetwing Yala offers a perfect balance of affordable luxury and environmental harmony

Heritance Tea Factory

Set over 2,000 metres above sea level, The Heritance Tea Factory was built as the Heathersett Tea Factory in the days of the British Raj

Galle Face Hotel

The Galle Face Hotel is situated in the heart of Colombo along the seafront and facing the Galle Face Green

Earls Regency Hotel

The Earl’s Regency hotel is set in the Dumbara valley, overlooking the lush Knuckles mountain range and the Mahaweli river

Cinnamon Lakeside Colombo

Set in the heart of Colombo, on the edge of the Beira Lake, the Cinnamon Lakeside is set among 2.8 hectares of lush landscaped gardens

Cinnamon Citadel

Overlooking the Mahaweli river on the northern outskirts of the hill country capital of Kandy, Cinnamon Citadel is a 4-star hotel, offering tranquillity away from the city

The Blue Water Hotel

The Blue Water Resort is located on a sublime stretch of the Wadduwa coastline and has 100 rooms with all modern facilities

Anantaya Resort and Spa Chilaw

Tucked away between a sandy beach and a mangrove fringed lagoon, the Anantaya Resort & Spa is located in the charming resort of Chilaw and a mere 20 minute drive from Colombo

Amaya Beach

Set on a long stretch of coastline in Pasikudah Bay, known for its extensive Coral Reef and azure waters, the Amaya Beach offers 125 guestrooms lavishly decorated with vivid colours to reflect the resorts colourful location

The Blackpool

The Blackpool is a charming property located approximately 3km to the south-west of Nuwara Eliya and surrounded by lush hills and tea estates

Cultural Triangle

Galle and the south west coast, negombo and beyond, sacred kandy, the east coast, the hill country, the south coast, yala national park, ready to start planning your next trip, group tours to sri lanka, tailor-made holidays to sri lanka.

Climate in Sri Lanka

Discover the temperatures and rainfall you can expect when visiting the main areas of Sri Lanka, along with the best time to travel.

Top things to do in Sri Lanka

Spot leopard in Yala National Park, explore the colonial past and visit sacred Kandy.

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Sri Lanka Holidays

Southwest Coast
Anuradhapura
Habarana, Sigiriya & Dambulla
South Coast
Kandy & Nuwara Eliya
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Yala & Udawalawe
Kandalama & Polonnaruwa
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Captivating and enigmatic, this tropical tear-drop island is bursting with diverse and often unexpected treasures.

Perhaps best known for the beach resorts that line its extensive coast, Sri Lanka is also a culture lover’s paradise. There are rock temples and fortresses, ruins of ancient and sacred cities, and relics of a colonial age. And if that’s not quite enough to tempt you, Sri Lanka also has a naturally spectacular interior that’s home to rolling tea plantations, and wildlife-rich parks and reserves where elephants, leopards, crocodiles and sloth bears roam free.

Sri Lanka holidays take on a slower pace. This is an island where time takes on a different meaning; it may take a little longer to get from A to B, but that only adds to its charm. It gives you more time to take in your surroundings and discover the country from a local’s perspective as your guide proudly regales you with tales of their homeland.

Whether you’re seeking a beach escape or a bespoke Sri Lanka adventure, talk to us and we'll help create the right Sri Lanka holiday for you.

Sri Lanka - Perfect for

Rich heritage and culture.

Peel back the layers of time in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle

A haven for wildlife

Big cats, elephants, birds and whales are the bucket list Sri Lanka species.

Beaches, beaches, beaches

Golden sands of the west, rugged coves in the south and talcum-white beaches out east.

Mouthwatering food

Taste flavours influenced by the island’s varied past.

Sri Lanka Regions

Our recommendations for the best places to visit in Sri Lanka

Southwest Coast Holidays

Unplug and unwind on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast where coconut palms and golden sands meet salt-l...

Anuradhapura Holidays

Holidays to Anuradhapura reveal the relics and religion that shaped one of the world's greatest c...

Galle Holidays

Galle holidays are a beautiful parade into Sri-Lanka's colonial-era past. Visit Galle Fort where...

Habarana, Sigiriya & Dambulla Holidays

Lost civilisations and lime plaster dagobas. Mighty rocks and rose quartz mountains. Holidays to...

South Coast Holidays

South coast Sri Lanka’s slew of seductive golden beaches froth with fresh-cut coconuts, just-caug...

Kandy & Nuwara Eliya Holidays

Head up into the cloud-cloaked Hill Country where you'll find vibrant cties, resorted historic la...

Negombo Holidays

If you want to shake off jet lag on a beach or finish your Sri Lanka tour in an ocean-facing hote...

East Coast Sri Lanka Holidays

One of Sri Lanka’s best kept secrets is the east coast’s sugar white sands and warm shallow bays....

Yala & Udawalawe Holidays

Limelight stealing leopard and elephant encounters. Sloth bears shaking their shaggy coats and pe...

Kandalama & Polonnaruwa Holidays

Sinhalese history, sleeping buddhas, forest monasteries and a sky-high ancient kingdom. Sri Lanka...

Jaffna Holidays

Break from the crowd and head to Sri Lanka’s seldom-visited northern tip to explore history, heri...

Colombo Holidays

Sri Lanka’s judicial capital is equal parts chaotic and calm, filled with green spaces, serene te...

Holidays in Sri Lanka

This all-suite boutique hotel in the heart of Colombo combines historic architecture and contemporary styling to glamorous effect.

A contemporary and luxurious retreat overlooking idyllic Passikudah Bay, ideal for snorkelling and diving.

A fusion of Dutch and Portuguese styles, The Fortress is stylish, luxurious and right on the beach.

A headlining eco-resort inspired by the London Wetlands Centre, this boutique retreat offers style and serenity.

An eco-friendly hotel which has been incorporated into its natural setting.

In a beautiful setting by a river on the edge of Kandy, this peaceful bolthole is a great base for exploring Sri Lanka’s second city.

A heritage-rich hotel in the hills of Nuwara Eliya that first opened in the late 19th century where you’re given a royal welcome.

Stay in an 1860s coffee planter’s manor perched on the forested hills above Kandy.

Slip away to this under-the-radar pocket of Kandy, surrounded by tropical gardens where birds and butterflies flutter in the trees.

Step into a world of private butlers and luxury accommodations for a memorable riverside stay.

Anuradhapura Kingdom Ruins

Dating back as far as 377BC, this ancient kingdom is an essential stop on any tour of Sri Lanka. Established as the first capital city of the island by King Pandukabhaya, it survived 119 successive kings for over 1500 years before becoming one of the world’s most spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Regarded as the cradle of Buddhism, the sacred site is home to a vast network of temples and monasteries which can be explored at leisure during this four-hour tour. Discover the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree which is said to have grown from a cutting from the tree in India under which Buddha attained enlightenment, marvel at the preservation of the Twin Ponds and soak up the impressive history at the onsite museum housed within one of the ancient monasteries which is filled with ornate trinkets dating back to the pre-Christian era.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya hotels

Good to know Legs and shoulders must be covered, and shoes will need to be removed when exploring the temples.

Polonnaruwa Kingdom Ruins

Brush off your explorer hat as you traverse the ancient second capital of the island and discover the monumental ruins of this glorious garden-city. Dating back to 1070 A.D, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is brimming with history and the on-site museum will soon have you up to speed. The ancient compact city is easy to navigate and filled with impressive architectural structures from the enormous Royal Palace that stands seven stories tall to more personal relics such as the King’s private swimming pool. During this five-hour tour you’ll have the opportunity to explore many of the city’s highlights including the beautiful white Kiri Vihara Dagoba which archaeologists found when clearing the area from jungle in perfect condition after 700 years. From evocative temples and shrines to the serene Sea Of Parakrama, this is one of the best -preserved sites in Sri Lanka and sure to create lasting memories for years to come.

• Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama, Passikudah and Trincomalee hotels

Sigiriya Rock Fortress (car & driver and stay-put excursion)

One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, Sigiriya Rock is a sight to behold, towering 200 metres above the surrounding jungle. Formed from magma of an extinct volcano, the fortress was created over 1500 years ago by King Kashyapa and is considered one of the best-preserved examples of ancient urban planning. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982, discover the vast history of the plateau at the onsite museum before making the climb up the vertiginous staircases to the summit passing impressive frescoes and the famed Mirror Wall and colossal Lions Platform as you go. From the top, explore the ruins of the ancient civilisation through the remnants of the palace and vast gardens and soak up the panoramic vistas of the jungle covered central plains.

Good to know For the most pleasurable experience we recommend organising this excursion first thing in the morning or after 4pm to avoid the heat of the day. While suitable for all, the climb to the summit requires a good degree of physical fitness.

Dambulla Cave Temple

A fantastic stopping off point when travelling between Habarana or Kandalama and Kandy, the famous cave complexes of Dambulla are a haven for those interested in Sri Lanka’s rich history. Dating back to the first Century BC, this ancient cave temple has been a pilgrimage for Buddhists and Hindus for 22 centuries and is still a place of holy importance to this day. There are over 80 documented caves at the site, but with around an hour to explore, this excursion will guide you through the major highlights which are spread over just five of them. Adorned with statues of Gautama Buddha and ornate ceiling paintings, the iconic temple is brimming with artefacts depicting the island’s glorious past and is not to be missed.

Kandy’s Highlights

Whether time is of the essence or you’re after an introduction to this vibrant city that’s brimming with history and culture, this half day excursion will ensure you don’t miss any of Kandy’s major attractions. Discover one of Buddhism’s most sacred shrines at the golden-roofed Temple of the Sacred Tooth, where the relic tooth of Buddha is housed and explore the spectacular Royal Palace complex – the perfect backdrop for some holiday snaps. Dating back to 1821, finish your trip with a meander through the delightful Royal Botanical Garden where you’ll find over 100 endemic plants before exploring the rest of the city at leisure or returning to your hotel to unwind.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama, Kandy and Nuwara Eliya and Kandy hotels • Available as a day trip for guests staying at hotels in Beruwela, Kalutara, Bentota & Negombo

Good to know This trip is suitable for all, but legs and shoulders must be covered, and shoes will need to be removed when entering the temple.

Udawalawe Jeep Safari & Elephant Transit Home

Founded in 1995, the Elephant Transit Home is a haven for orphaned or injured elephant calves who are rehabilitated back to full health before being returned to the wild. Great lengths are taken to minimize contact between the baby elephants, their caregivers and visitors but you can enjoy watching them stamp their feet impatiently as they wait for their food and relish in the fact that once old enough to survive alone, they’ll be free to roam the national park once more. After a delicious lunch in a local restaurant, hop into your private jeep and get ready to explore the Udawalawe National Park, a sanctuary for wild animals displaced by the construction of nearby Udawalawe Reservoir. Infamous for its large population of elephants, have your camera at the ready as you spot herds of these majestic creatures feeding, playing and bathing in waterholes as well as an abundance of other mammals, reptiles and birds.

• Duration: half day • Time: midday to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Udawalawe, Hambantota, Tangalle and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Tangalle, Hambantota, Galle, Koggala and Weligama

Good to know This unforgettable trip is suitable for all ages.

Udawalawe 3-hour Jeep Safari

If you’ve already had the pleasure of exploring the Udawalawe National Park and would like some additional time observing the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat, this is the excursion for you. As you head back into the vast park it won’t be long before you stumble across a herd of elephants strolling alongside the track or water buffalo and deer congregating by a watering hole. Your knowledgeable driver will be on hand to point out the local flora and fauna from soaring eagles to prehistoric looking monitor lizards and will ensure you discover the best secluded spots.

• Duration: half day • Times 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Udawalawe, Galle, Hambantota, Tangalle and Yala

Good to know Suitable for all, if not staying in the vicinity of the national park we’d recommend an afternoon safari due to the early start of the morning excursion.

Yala Full Day Jeep Safari

Explore Sri Lanka’s most famous national park and experience the sanctuary’s rich wildlife from the comfort of your own private jeep on this epic full day excursion. As the sun begins to rise and the parks inhabitants begin to emerge from their slumber, your experienced guide will drive you through the grassy plains and light forest in search of elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes, monkeys and more. With one of the highest densities of leopards in the world and a full day to explore, there’s a good chance you’ll catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures too. A haven for bird watchers, the park is brimming with both migratory and endemic bird species and dotted with important ancient ruins and temples dating back to the 5th century B.C.

• Duration: full day • Time: 6am to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round except September – mid-October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Yala

Good to know This experience is designed for those staying in close vicinity to the park due to the early start. Please note that during the height of the drought season between September and mid-October, the park will be closed.

Yala 3-hour Jeep Safari

If you’re short on time or simply want to add in a safari trip while staying in a resort along the serene southern coast, this three-hour excursion is just the ticket. With your own private guide, it won’t be long before you’re spotting herds of elephants walking across the grassy plains and buffaloes and deer cooling off by a watering hole. Spot monkeys playing in the treetops, crocodiles popping up for air and eagles soaring in the sky above – the park is teeming with life. With one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, Yala is a prime location to encounter these elusive creatures in their natural habitat and bird enthusiasts won’t be disappointed either with a huge collection of migratory and endemic species to spot.

• Duration: half day • Time: 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round except September to mid-October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Hambantota, Tangalle, Udawalawe and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Yala, Udawalawe, Tangalle and Hambantota

Good to know If not staying in close vicinity to the national park, we’d recommend the afternoon excursion due to the early start of the morning option.

Wilpattu Jeep Safari full day

Much quieter than Sri Lanka’s other popular national parks, Wilpattu offers a genuine sense of wilderness with scientific research on the bio-diversity of the park still in its infancy. This ‘Land of Lakes’ is dotted with water-basins and hidden in the dense forests you’ll find an array of wildlife from sloth bears and spotted deer to elephants and crocodiles. Little is known of the large population of leopards who reside in the park, but next to Yala in the south. this is the second-best place to spot them in Sri Lanka. With an intimate knowledge of the area, your guide and driver will navigate the day based on their experience giving you the best chance to catch a glimpse of the abundant wildlife in their natural habitat.

• Duration: full day • Time: 6am to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates between February and October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya

Wilpattu 3-hour Jeep Safari

• Duration: half day • Time: 6am to 9am or 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • between February and October • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Sigiriya

Good to know Suitable for all, for those staying further afield and those who can’t commit to a day trip, we’d recommend an afternoon visit.

Bundala Bird Watching Safari

The first wetland to be declared as a RAMSAR site in Sri Lanka, Bundala National Park is a must do for bird enthusiasts. The UNESCO designated biosphere reserve hosts 197 species and is one of the best places to observe both migrant and resident birds which use the parks five shallow lagoons as feeding sites. Delight in the impressive bird song as your personal tracker guides you through the six different types of wetland where you’ll spot the likes of Black Headed Ibis, Painted Storks and Terns along with other small mammals, reptiles and butterflies from the comfort of your own private jeep.

• Duration: half day • Time: 5.30am to 9am or 2.30pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates between October and March • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Hambantota, Tangalle, Udawalawe and Yala • Available for guests staying at hotels in Tangalle and Hambantota

Good to know Due to the early start time of the morning excursion, we’d recommend an afternoon visit for those staying further afield.

Minneriya Jeep Safari

If observing elephants in their natural habitat is on your to do list while in Sri Lanka, Minneriya National Park should be top of your list. While elephants can be spotted all year round in huge numbers, during the dry season, between April and October, the park plays host to one of the greatest wildlife spectacles in the world: The Great Elephant Gathering. As the Minneriya Tank dries up and gives way to a lush grass plain, 300 or more elephants gather in the late afternoon to feed offering visitors an unforgettable spectacle. Home to a host of other wildlife from two endemic monkey species to the Sri Lankan Sloth Bear, the endangered Grey Slender Loris and elusive Sri Lankan Leopard can also occasionally be spotted.

• Duration: half day • Time: 3pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Sigiriya, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Habarana, Kandalama and Kandy

Good to know Depending on the time of year, guests may be taken to the Hurulu Eco-park (Jan to May) or Kandulla National Park (Nov to Dec) as elephant migrations interchange between all three parks.

Whale Watching Cruise (car & driver excursion and stay put excursion)

Embark on this once in a lifetime trip in search of whales on this thrilling cruise across the Indian Ocean and discover the multitude of marine life off the coast of Sri Lanka. As your expert skipper and crew sail through areas frequented by whales, look out for sperm, killer, humpback and pilot whales in the tropical waters as well as acrobatic spinner dolphins racing alongside the boat. Home to the largest Blue Whale colony in the world, there’s a good chance you’ll spot these enormous mammals during your excursion offering some incredible photo opportunities and memories that will last a lifetime.

• Duration: half day • Time: 6.30am to 11.30am • Daily departure • Operates between October and March • Group experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Galle, Hambantota, Koggala, Mirissa & Tangalle • Available for guests staying at hotels in Galle, Koggala & Welogama.

Good to know A great experience for those looking to explore Sri Lanka’s marine life however as these are wild animals, sightings can’t be guaranteed.

Hot Air Balloon Flight

Embark on this unforgettable adventure activity and experience the serenity of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle from the sky. Revel at the views as the sun rises and you gently glide across dense forests, ancient ruins and grassy plains, witnessing the stunning landscapes from a whole new perspective. The perfect addition to any honeymoon or those celebrating a special occasion, after landing your flight will be toasted with a glass of champagne or juice.

• Duration: 1½ hours • Time: 5.30am to 7am • Daily departures • Operates between November and April • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Kandalama, Dambulla, Habarana and Sigiriya

Good to know Not suitable for those under 16 years of age, pregnant passengers or those with heart conditions.

Sri Lankan Cooking Class

There’s no better souvenir than mastering the art of Sri Lankan cooking, providing you with instant access to the island’s rich flavours once home. Since the Dutch, Portuguese and British settlers began trading spices they have become an important commodity in Sri Lankan cuisine and are the key to mastering the perfect dish. Your class will begin with a guided spice tour where you’ll discover the country’s rich herbal heritage, from harvesting and processing through to the health benefits of the most popular flavours. Set in a restaurant adjacent to a cinnamon plantation, you’ll get busy preparing a traditional Sri Lankan curry with a recipe that’s been inherited over generations before tucking into your own delicious creations over lunch.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Kandalama, Dambulla, Habarana and Kandy

Good to know This class is ideal for those travelling between Habarana or Kandalama and Kandy or vice versa due to its location between the two.

Ceylon Tea Picking Experience

The story of Ceylon tea begins over 200 years ago when Sri Lanka was still a British colony. With its alchemy of land, sun and rain the island provides the ideal climate for its cultivation. For those looking to delve deeper into the cultivation process and history of Sri Lanka’s greatest export, this immersive tea picking experience is not to be missed. A good cup of tea starts in the field and you’ll begin by observing the fine art of tea plucking before heading back inside and learning all about tea processing with a thorough factory visit. Much like wine, each batch of tea must be taste-tested, and you’ll get a quick masterclass on what to look for from your knowledgeable guide. After all that learning, end the day with a refreshing cup of Ceylon Tea straight from the plantation and a newfound appreciation for the hard work that goes into every cup.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience • Available for guests on a car and driver itinerary staying in Nuwara Eliya and Kandy

Good to know This is a great half day trip for those travelling between Nuwara Eliya and Kandy or vice versa, due to its location between the two.

Highlights of Colombo In A Day

Bustling Colombo is packed with unmissable sights and you’ll discover the most compelling of them on this private full-day visit. The well-thought-out itinerary includes a blend of historic sites and contemporary attractions, along with some that are both, such as the Dutch Hospital, the oldest building in the Colombo Fort area, which has been repurposed as a stylish shopping and dining destination. Other highlights include the Galle Face Promenade, which runs the length of the city’s celebrated seaside park; Sambodhi Chaithya, a Buddhist shrine that’s a fascinating example of 1950s architecture; and Nelum Pokuna Art Street, a colourful open-air market where local artists showcase and sell their work. Just behind Art Street is the National Museum, where you can feast your eyes on everything from the crown jewels of the last King of Kandy to vividly painted demon masks.

• Duration: full day • Daily departures • Operates year round • Private experience

The Art of Creating Sri Lankan Tea

As well as its aromatic spices, Sri Lanka is famed for its tea production. Since the first plantation was established in the 19th Century, millions of kilograms of tea have been exported around the globe, to countries including the UK, the UAE and Turkey. You’ll visit one of the oldest tea producers in the country and learn all about the creation of the famous Ceylon loose-leaf tea from the plant to the cup via the refining and blending processes. You’ll also learn about the subtle differences in flavour of teas grown at different altitudes and how teas are blended for the tastes of their ultimate destinations around the world.

• Duration: 1½ hours • Daily departures from Colombo and Negombo hotels • Operates year-round • Private experience

Hike Pidurangala Rock

Climbing Sigiriya Rock is a Sri Lanka rite of passage, however, as with scaling any iconic viewpoint – once you’ve reached the top, it’s not part of the landscape that you’re viewing. The almost-200-metre-high Pidurangala Rock lies just to the north of its more famous neighbour and has some pretty epic views from its summit (which, like Lion Rock, is reached by man-made paths and staircases). The best times to climb are sunrise and sunset when the shifting light casts dramatic shadows across the landscape, and – if you are lucky – creates dramatic skies of many colours.

Duration: half day • Daily departures from Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandalama, Polonnaruwa and Dambulla • Operates year-round • Private experience

Village Cooking Experience

The cuisine of Sri Lanka has been shaped over centuries, influenced by Arab traders and European settlers, and trying the spice-enriched specialities – whether from a high-end restaurant or a street hawker – is a staple experience during a visit to the island. To really enhance your time here, we recommend learning how to create a handful of dishes in a local village. You’ll buy your produce from a village vendor in the company of your host; they’ll show you the essential ingredients used in traditional cooking and select the freshest vegetables that will be used to create their culinary masterpieces. In a wattle-and-daub hut that’s surrounded by paddy fields, your host will whip up a range of flavourful and authentic curries that you’ll get to enjoy at the end of the morning.

• Duration 1½ hours • Time: 10am to 11.30am • Daily departures from Habarana, Sigiriya, Kandalama, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla • Operates year-round • Private experience

Learn the Art of Traditional Pottery & Pan Mat Making

Spend a few hours discovering the skill and beauty of a couple of the traditional crafts still practiced in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country: pottery and weaving. You’ll visit the workshop of a potter and learn about the age-old methods used to create stunning earthenware pieces as well as trying your hand on the potter’s wheel yourself. The focus then shifts to the intricate art of weaving pan reeds into vibrant and multi-use mats – a pan padura – which most families in Sri Lanka will own. Watch as dried-out reeds are transformed in front of your eyes and even have a go yourself.

• Duration: 3 to 4 hours • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

The Art of Drumming

The traditional music and percussion instruments of Sri Lanka are the focus on this short but sweet experience from Kandy. Learn about the history and culture surrounding the Kandyan drum, their importance and use during festivals, rituals and at temples. There’ll be the chance to try out the skill for yourself under the guidance of an experienced drummer; this is a great experience to enjoy together as a family.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 9am to 11am or 3pm to 5pm • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Crab Curry Cooking Class

The shallow lagoons off the east coast of Sri Lanka are rich with edible crab species and a Sri Lankan crab curry is a regional speciality. During this half-day experience, you’ll visit a local guesthouse and discover how to make this flavourful dish – a skill that will allow you to bring the taste of Sri Lanka home with you.

• Daily departures from Passikudah • Operates year-round • Private experience

The Cinnamon Experience

Not far from the golden shores of Weligama is the hillside Top House, a working cinnamon plantation that’s been lovingly restored by its British owner. A combination of self-sustaining age-old techniques and modern technology is used to extract cinnamon leaf oil at the newly built distillery. During your private tour, you’ll explore the cinnamon nursery, the plantation itself, the peeling hut and the distillery, travelling on foot and by a tractor-hitched trailer, and learn about the processes involved in creating their artisan produce.

• Duration: half day • Start time: 9am • Departs Monday to Saturday from Galle, Weligama, Tangalle, Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Good to know The plantation is closed on poya days.

Galle Fort Photography Experience

Join a private photography walk of Galle Fort with a local travel and lifestyle photographer with the chance to refine your camera skills and take some inspiring photographs. There is a lively art scene here, and visitors and keen shutterbugs are inspired by Galle Fort’s coastal location, creativity, and heritage architecture. Tour the cobbled streets through a lens and discover its majestic defences, once walked by merchants and traders, now fringed with characterful boutiques, galleries, and eateries. Over a memorable couple of hours, you’ll hone your photography skills with a guide who knows the fort and its stories.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 6am to 4pm or 8am to 6pm • Daily departures from Galle • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kandy Horse Riding

Take a horse-riding lesson in Kandy, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned rider. Ride one of Victoria Golf Club’s gentle, thoroughbred horses, ideal for both apprehensive beginners and experienced riders, promising to make riding in Sri Lanka an unforgettable and enjoyable experience. The Saddle Club offers lessons to children and adults and one-hour treks to appreciate the beauty of the scenery while enjoying some fresh mountain air.

• Duration: 1 hour • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kumana National Park by Jeep

Join a half-day or full-day game drive to experience the spirit of Kumana National Park. Kumana National Park is a well-known eco-tourism attraction and bird sanctuary where many birds breed and roost. One of the most significant features of the park is the Kumana Villu, a 200-hectare natural swamp lake fed by the Kumbukkan Oya through a half-mile-long narrow channel.

• Daily departures from Passikudah or Trincomalee • Operates year-round • Private experience

Street Food of Negombo

Spend an evening feasting on the delicious street food of Sri Lanka. As one of the leading cultivators and exporters of spices worldwide, the Sinhalese use their seasonings with utmost care. It's known for the sweetest cinnamon, peppercorns, tamarind, cloves, nutmeg, mace, and more. It can be sampled in its street foods, including flavoursome masalas topped with decadent meat and slow-cooked vegetables. Snackable dishes are an integral part of Sri Lanka’s diverse cuisine, and you’ll have a chance to taste plenty of dishes as you venture around Negombo.

• Duration: evening • Daily departures from Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Canoe Unawatuna Lagoon

Paddle through the mangrove forests of the Unawatuna Lagoon in a canoe. Your adventure begins with a safety introduction and life jackets. You’ll board a canoe and paddle through beautiful rivulets and mangrove forests. You can interact with the local people and watch them catch crabs as you go. An experienced professional guide will assist you throughout the trip, pointing out bird species flocking on the distant trees on a two-hour voyage.

• Daily departures from Galle • Operates year-round • Private experience

Colombo City Walk

Join a family-friendly tour to explore the Colombo neighbourhood of Pettah on foot in the company of a knowledgeable local guide. Your tour begins by exploring colourful and fragrant markets, including a floating market. You’ll have the chance to see a Dutch church dating to 1749, the Dutch Period Museum and the Red Mosque. Explore places rich in history and religion, such as the Gangaramaya Temple and the Colombo Museum.

• Duration: half day • Daily departures from Colombo and Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Golf at the Royal Colombo Club

Play a round of golf at the Royal Colombo, a leading 140-year-old private members club in Sri Lanka. The club is a sanctuary in the heart of Colombo, sitting in contrast to its surroundings. After your round, the clubhouse provides an airy, relaxing atmosphere and a beautiful place for members and visitors to unwind.

• Duration: full day • Departs Monday to Friday from Colombo or Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Kanneliya Rainforest Trek

Venture into the Kanneliya Rainforest on a private tour to explore its flora and fauna. While it’s known as one of South Asia's most floristically abundant areas, the Kanneliya Forest Reserve is also home to fascinating birdlife, including many endemics and an incredible diversity of mammals, butterflies, dragonflies, amphibians, and reptiles. During your tour, you’ll have the chance to see the Anagimale Falls, an ancient tangled giant creeper and the little waterfall of Narangas Ella. An impressive Nevada tree observation platform provides a great spot to look out over the Reserve.

• Duration: 3 hours • Daily departures from Galle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Learn the Art of Lace Making

Watch a traditional Sri Lankan lacemaker at work on an insightful half-day experience. Sit down with a Beeralu lacemaker to observe how they create intricate art. A lace pattern is hand-drawn on graph paper, after which the design is marked with pins and wrapped around a lace pillow. Then, several lengths of thread are woven or braided with the help of wooden bobbins to create a finished piece of lace. Though this process requires more effort than machine-cut lace that can be produced in bulk and on demand, the authenticity and quality of Beeralu lace are unparalleled.

• Daily departures from Galle, Koggala, Tangalle or Weligama • Operates year-round • Private experience

Dinner Overlooking Negombo Lagoon

Dine on fresh seafood with a view over the Indian Ocean. Negombo Lagoon is an open-air dining space in the fishing village where you can choose from the freshest catch of the day from the seafood market and then ask the chefs to prepare it in a sauce or curry of your choice.

• Duration: evening • Start time: 6pm • Daily departures from Negombo • Operates year-round • Private experience

Surf’s Up at Weligama Bay

Negotiate the waves on a two-hour surf lesson. Weligama Bay is the centre of surf culture on the south coast of Sri Lanka and an ideal spot to learn, whether you’re a beginner or looking to finesse your skills. There are gentle beginner waves all day, every day, and all year round. For those who know the basics, there are unbroken waves to tackle, and expert surfers can finetune their paddle, stance, and style — or learn some new manoeuvres.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 11am to 1pm or 3pm to 5pm • Daily departures from Galle, Weligama, Tangalle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Explore Kandy by Classic Car

Take a ride around the historical and cultural Kandy in a classic car. This private tour takes you around the city, where colonial-era and local architecture sit side by side. Its landscapes and streets will enthral you, and there’s the chance to see the golden roof of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a sacred Buddhist shrine, and visit Kandy Lake, an artificial lake with a palm-dotted island at its centre.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10.30am or 4pm to 6pm\ • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Udawaththakale Forest Trek

Hike through a historic forest reserve on a hill ridge in Kandy. Udawaththakale Forest is a vital bio reserve for Kandy. On a guided trek, you’ll see the forest's highlights, including the water pond, the Kodimale peak, the Senkanda Cave, and the Garrison cemetery. There are also several Buddhist temples and hermitages inside the forest reserve.

• Duration: 2 to 3 hours • Daily departures from Kandy • Operates year-round • Private experience

Highlights of Colombo by Classic Car

On a private tour, step back in time and observe Colombo’s historic buildings from the comfort of a classic car. Spend a couple of hours visiting architectural landmarks in Columbo. The colonial buildings in Fort are some of the city’s most recognisable structures, including the Dutch Hospital, once used as a health centre for the Dutch East India Company and later by seafarers. You can also visit the Old Colombo Lighthouse, an elegant Victorian tower.

• Duration: 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10.30am or 4pm to 6pm\ • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Private experience

Street food of Hikka

Hikkaduwa might be best known for its beach and surf culture, but it is also renowned for its delicious street food. Spend an evening on a gastronomic adventure, tasting these local street foods. There’s plenty of seafood to try alongside spicy and flavoursome roti, crispy pancakes known as hoppers, and traditional curry and rice. Watch as the vendors prepare the dishes as you listen to the sound of the waves.

• Duration: evening • Start time: 6pm • Daily departures from Galle or Hikkaduwa • Operates year-round • Private experience

Explore Galle by Classic Car

Join a resident in their beloved 1972 Volkswagen Beetle convertible for a two-hour tour of Galle. Galle is a melting pot of culture, cuisine, and craft recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. On your journey, you’ll witness Galle’s maritime history and Dutch-colonial influence with insight from your guide.

• Duration: 1½ or 2 hours • Time: 8.30am to 10am or 4pm to 6pm • Daily departures from Galle or Koggala • Operates year-round • Private experience

Mangrove Conservation Project Visit

Koggala Lagoon is in Sri Lanka’s southern province, where a wide range of wildlife live, and small villages dot the shoreline. It’s home to a large mangrove biome with eleven mangrove species and a high level of biodiversity. Many of the mangroves were destroyed yet vital habitat restoration has been underway since 2010, led by the Wildlife and Ocean Resource Conservation and supported by the DER Touristik Foundation, Kuoni’s parent company.

On this half-day experience, a private transfer will collect you from your hotel and take you to Koggala Lagoon. You’ll meet the team who’ll provide an overview of the conservation work and the mangrove ecosystem at Koggala, beginning with a look at the plant nursery. Mangroves are vital plants that grow in water, tolerating conditions that most plants can’t survive in, thanks to their ability to remove salt. Crucially, mangroves absorb twice as much carbon dioxide as tropical rainforests, helping maintain good water quality, filter pollutants, and protect shorelines from erosion.

After an introduction to the science behind the mangrove growing and planting techniques, you’ll board a boat to venture out onto the lagoon to study the mangroves, observing the local wildlife that live here, with birdlife soaring overhead, including herons and hawks. You’ll have the chance to plant seedling mangroves following a successful technique that other organisations involved in the restoration of mangrove swamps around the world have adopted.

• £10 of each excursion sale goes towards the conservation programme Duration: 3 hours (excluding transfer times) • Departs from Galle, Tangalle, Koggala, Bentota, Ahungalla and Hikkaduwa hotels (as private car & driver transfer) • Operates year round • You must wear clothes that cover your legs and shoulders • Shoes and sandals must be removed • We recommend booking the tour in the morning or the late afternoon to avoid the heat of the day

Scenic Train Journey - Nuwara Eliya to Ella

The rail journey between Nuwara Eliya (Nanu Oya station) and Ella is arguably the most beautiful stretch of the Kandy-to-Hill-Country journey. For a few hours, the iconic train winds its way up through tea plantations and fruit farms on the way into the beautiful town of Ella.

• Duration: half day • Time: 3.45pm to 6.30pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Good to know The train journey is based on tickets in the first class, air-conditioned carriage. It includes guaranteed seats, lunch or high tea depending on journey time (after the rail journey), taxes and service charges.

Scenic Train Journey - Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Depart from the hotel and transfer to the train station and board the train that will take you up towards Nuwara Eliya. As you ascend into the Hill Country, the train passes through rolling tea plantations and verdant forests and you’ll understand why this journey has been named as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Disembark at Nanu Oya station and transfer to your Nuwara Eliya hotel by road.

• Duration: half day • Time: 12.20pm to 4pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Scenic Train Journey - Nuwara Eliya to Kandy

Depart from the hotel and transfer to the train station at Nanu Oya and board the train that will take you to Kandy. As you descend from the Hill Country, the train passes through rolling tea plantations and verdant forests and you’ll understand why this journey has been named as one of the most scenic rail journeys in the world. Disembark in Kandy and transfer to your hotel.

• Duration: half day • Time: 1.40pm to 6pm • Daily departures • Operates year-round • Group experience

Get to know Sri Lanka and those important practicalities when planning your perfect holiday.

GMT +5½ hours

Sri Lankan rupee

Colombo 10½ hours

Sinhalese. Tamil and English are also widely spoken, and newspapers are printed in all three languages.

Where is Sri Lanka? The tear drop-shaped island of Sri Lanka is located in the heart of the Indian Ocean and is separated from the south-east coast of India by the Gulf of Munnar and the Palk Strait. Sri Lanka's Bandaranaike International Airport is located just outside Colombo and close to the beach resort of Negombo. It can be reached from the UK by a direct flight. It’s also just an hour and a half by air from the Maldives’ capital, Male making a culture and beach combo holiday a breeze.

Independent touring No two holidays to Sri Lanka are the same. They can be culture focused, be all about spotting wildlife, getting out and getting active or a bit of all of the above. Our car and driver option is ideal if you’re looking to create your own itinerary, to see what you want to see, when you want to see it. It’s flexible, so though your driver/guide will pick you up each morning and follow your itinerary before dropping you off at your chosen accommodation, you can choose to amend your itinerary at any time, as long as you still make it to your next hotel.

Cinnamon Air If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, avoid the roads entirely and fly to your chosen destination. Cinnamon Air offers daily domestic flights from Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport to a selection of Sri Lanka’s most popular destinations. The flights have been synchronized to coincide with the arrival and departure schedules of international airlines. This means connecting your flights is easy and convenient with minimum time spent waiting around. You can of course add domestic flights at any point during your itinerary and there is even the possibility to charter flights to suit your own itinerary.

History & heritage Sri Lanka was once a country of successive kingdoms, from the Anuradhapura era (437 BC to 1017 AD) to the Kingdom of Kandy (1591 to 1815). The island’s central region is where you can discover the incredible ancient cities, citadels, sacred Buddhist temples and fortresses that make up the world-famous Cultural Triangle. The southern-most point of the triangle is the highlands city of Kandy, a city so rich in heritage it is known as Sri Lanka’s cultural capital.

Wildlife From Wilpattu in the northwest and Minneriya in central Sri Lanka to world-famous Yala on the south-east coast, Sri Lanka’s National Parks are rich in flora and fauna, providing you with the opportunity to experience the island’s wild side. We love how close Minneriya is to the major sights of the Cultural Triangle – it means that you can get a good balance of heritage, history and nature in just one region. It is particularly known for the vast numbers of elephants that pass through the park as they make their way along the elephant corridor. If you are more of a big cat fan then head to southern Sri Lanka’s Yala National Park, which has the world’s highest concentrations of leopards.

Beaches It’s often Sri Lanka’s beaches that first spring to mind… this little island does have some magnificent stretches of golden sand. The south-west coast is especially popular, with resorts such as Negombo and Bentota providing an excellent choice of beautiful hotels from old colonial favourites to modern resorts with extensive facilities. The district of Trincomalee and the resort town of Passikudah on the east coast provide a quieter option, slightly off the tourist trail. The sloping beaches and largely sheltered bays make the east coast an excellent choice for families, while the handful of luxury properties makes it an unbeatable honeymoon setting.

Diving & snorkelling Sri Lanka’s 1000-mile coastline is dotted with fantastic dive sites, in particular a number of wrecks that are rich in marine life. The warm waters are inviting and the visibility ranges from 10 to 25 metres at its best. The island’s varied climate means the weather and sea conditions on one side of the island can often be very different from the other. The diving season on the south and west coast typically runs from November to April while on the east coast it’s from May to October.

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Itineraries from 14 to 17 days showing the best of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka, the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is an irresistible destination. This tranquil island boasts idyllic beaches, ancient ruins, sacred temples, verdant tea plantations and of course, oodles of elephants and other wildlife.

Our Sri Lankan adventure begins in Colombo, the country’s lively capital and ends in the historic former Dutch port town of Galle. In between, we explore the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka’s interior, packed full of ancient ruins and sacred sites – the cave frescoes of Dambulla, the ancient site of Sigiriya, and the sacred Temple of the Tooth. We travel into the hills and tea plantations, see elephants in Minneriya National Park and search for leopards in Yala, Sri Lanka’s most famous National Park. Along the way, you will be guided by a friendly, knowledgeable Tour Manager, who is there to ensure you get the very best from your holiday.

Carefully designed to offer the perfect blend of sightseeing and relaxation, Distant Journeys’ 17-day Very Best of Sri Lanka escorted tour showcases the very best of the culture, landscapes and wildlife that Sri Lanka has to offer. And with a maximum group size of only 24 guests, our small group tour of Sri Lanka is the perfect introduction to this beautiful island nation.

We are also delighted to introduce our brand-new Exclusively Solos 14-day Treasures of Sri Lanka tour. Offering stress-free travel, friendship and freedom, with the bonus of no single occupancy supplements they are exceptional value too.

For anyone wishing to enjoy real exclusivity on a touring holiday to Sri Lanka, Distant Journeys offers the same expertly-crafted itinerary as a Private Tour . If you’re a couple celebrating a special occasion, or a group of friends who like to holiday together, you will find the option of Private Touring in Sri Lanka surprisingly affordable.

Save £200 per person on all Sri Lanka tours departing from September 2025 when you book by 30th November 2024.

BROCHURE REQUEST

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The Very Best of Sri Lanka

Explore the historic site of Sigiriya
Visit Sri Lanka’s tea plantations
Safari in Yala National Park

17-day tour from £3,595 pp

Treasures of Sri Lanka

Safari in Udawalawe National Park
Discover the ancient site of Sigiriya
Explore the old Dutch Fort in Galle

14-day tour from £3,895 pp

People taking in the surrounding views from the top of Sirigiya Rock, Sri Lanka

Travel in your own private car
Personal driver and guide throughout
Travel on a departure date to suit you

Tours from £3,990 £3,840 pp (based on 2 people travelling)

Sri Lanka Beach Stay

Unwind at the Occidental Eden Beruwela
Daily breakfast and dinner included
All transfers included

3-night extension from £495 pp

Holiday Styles
Exceptional Value
Flexibility

Escorted touring experience

At Distant Journeys we are true escorted touring experts. From our knowledgeable Directors and Reservations consultants at Head Office to our Tour Managers on the ground, each person plays a unique role in ensuring you have the holiday of a lifetime.

We have extensive experience in the travel industry and in creating the best escorted tours of Sri Lanka from the UK. You can be confident that our escorted tours to Sri Lanka are of the highest standard.

Our success is evident having now become 18-time winners at the prestigious British Travel Awards, and we have been awarded Feefo’s highest Platinum Trusted rating.

Your money is 100% safe when you book with Distant Journeys. All our Sri Lankan touring packages are fully-bonded by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL no. 10913).

Award-winning tours

We have won numerous awards at the British Travel Awards , most recently ‘ Best Small Holiday Company to Australasia ’, ‘ Best Small Holiday to Sub-Saharan Africa ’ and ‘ Best Small Escorted Tours Holiday Company ’.

Our customers are at the heart of what we do, and this is reflected across our company. We have received an incredible 4.8/5 customer experience rating with independent reviews provider Feefo , and were awarded its highest ‘Platinum Trusted’ rating, for consistently delivering an excellent level of customer service.

Sri Lanka holiday highlights

Our escorted tours to Sri Lanka are packed full of unforgettable experiences. Here are just some of them…

View the caves and frescoes of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Search for leopards on safari in Yala National Park
Walking tour of Colombo’s thriving food scene
Explore the ancient site of Sigiriya, with the opportunity to climb Sigiriya Rock
Learn about the tea-making process at a plantation in Nuwara Eliya
Visit the sacred ‘Temple of the Tooth’, said to hold a relic of Buddha himself
See the elephants in Minneriya National Park
Explore the former Dutch fort town of Galle
Visit a charity-funded school and engage with the local children
Tour the majestic Royal Palace complex in Polonnaruwa
Sightseeing tours of Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya and Galle
Take an optional scenic rail journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

Choose the holiday style that’s right for you

We all have our own individual requirements when it comes to how we travel. It’s your holiday, and at Distant Journeys you can choose the style of holiday that suits you best.

Classic Tours

Our Classic escorted tours are a great way to travel and experience Sri Lanka. Enjoy the scenery, culture and sights with a group of like-minded people, guided by a friendly and knowledgeable Tour Manager who will bring the destination to life. Our Very Best of Sri Lanka tour covers all of the countries many highlights and travels with no more than 24 people.

17-day Very Best of Sri Lanka

Our Exclusively Solo itineraries are crafted to include activities and sightseeing to create friendships forged through shared experiences, and memories to last a lifetime. You will be accompanied by a Tour Manager, dedicated to ensuring you get the best from every moment of your holiday and at the end of a busy day, you can retreat to the privacy of your own hotel room. Travelling with no more than 19 people, these tours represent great value for solo travellers.

14-day Treasures of Sri Lanka

For those who like to travel as a couple or with a group of friends, our Private Tours offer an intimate, exclusive holiday experience that is surprisingly affordable. Enjoy the same expertly-crafted itinerary and hand-picked hotels, but with the exclusivity and convenience of your own friendly and knowledgeable guides, your own private vehicle and a departure date to suit you.

All our tours to Sri Lanka are offered as a Private Tour.

We include so much

Every Distant Journeys tour to Sri Lanka from the UK is meticulously planned, and designed to offer great value by including many meals, activities and experiences in the price of the tour. As you would expect from a touring holiday, we include return international flights from the UK on an award-winning scheduled airline, with all your on-board meals and drinks included. Once you have arrived in Sri Lanka, you will enjoy transportation in modern air-conditioned coaches, hotel porterage for your luggage, all pre-payable airport and resort taxes, and all the entrance fees to the many incredible places you will visit.

Breakfast and dinner are included each day, in addition to lunch one day and high tea on another. What’s more, to help you make the most of your time, you will be accompanied by a knowledgeable Tour Manager throughout your journey; a friendly, helpful guide who will ensure you can enjoy every moment of your well-earned holiday.

Our escorted tour of Sri Lanka includes:

Return economy class flights with Qatar Airways from London Heathrow
Airport transfers overseas
Superior hotels, with great locations
Daily breakfast and dinner, plus a lunch and a high tea
Experienced local tour managers and drivers
Incredible excursions
All pre-payable airport taxes
All hotel porterage
ATOL protection for your holiday
Our Price Promise

Freedom & Flexibility

Distant Journeys’ escorted tours offer the perfect balance between an organised, comprehensive itinerary and the freedom and flexibility that our guests really appreciate.

Freedom Days

We have built in some Freedom Days in Sri Lanka, with a choice of activities for you to choose from. Nature and wildlife lovers may wish to immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty with a trek through a rainforest in Kandy, rich in native birdlife, or enjoy a whale watching cruise in search of the magnificent blue whale off the coast of Galle. Maybe take a tuk tuk to explore the rural temples of Gampola, or learn to cook like a local under the tuition of a renowned local chef in Galle. It’s all about making the most of your holiday, your way.

Choose your Yala Safari Experience

The Very Best of Sri Lanka tour includes a two-night stay in Yala National Park, home to an eclectic array of wildlife including elephants, bears, crocodiles, wild boars and of course the elusive leopard. Our hotel is the stunning Jetwing Yala , from where we will venture into the National Park on a thrilling safari.

For those wanting to get even closer to nature, there is an alternative to spend the two nights in Yala at one of Sri Lanka’s amazing safari camps . Set in truly remarkable locations, you’ll enjoy two safari drives into lesser-known areas of Yala and all meals, along with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. Please enquire for details and supplements.

Would you like to stay a little longer?

If you would like to extend your Very Best of Sri Lanka holiday, we have a beach stay extension available. Alternatively, you can extend your Exclusively Solo Treasures of Sri Lanka tour if you wish to spend a little longer relaxing at the Anantara Kalutara Resort . Simply let us know, and we will be happy to make the arrangements – it’s all part of our service.

Special Offer

Book with confidence, award-winning holidays.

Distant Journeys has won 18 awards over the last seven years, at the British Travel Awards, and we have been awarded Feefo’s highest Platinum Trusted Rating for customer satisfaction.

Guaranteed Price Promise

Know you are paying the best price for your holiday with our Price Promise. We never offer last minute discounts and we guarantee the earlier you book the better the offer you’ll receive.

100% Financial Protection

Book in the confidence your money is 100% safe. All Distant Journeys holidays are fully bonded by the Civil Aviation Authority (ATOL number 10913) or ABTOT (number 5427).

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Sri Lanka Escorted Tours

Sri Lanka sits just off the southern coast of India, and offers visitors from all over the world the chance to explore one of the most naturally beautiful landscapes on Earth. With so much to see and do, it can be tough to know if you’re making the most of your time away. That’s where our handcrafted escorted tours of Sri Lanka come in.

Allow yourself the chance to relax and absorb the beautiful country around you, as you’re guided by a professional across the most iconic parts of this idyllic island nation. These tours pair you with like-minded travellers, who want to see every inch of Sri Lanka at the same pace that you do.

Marvelling at the views from the top of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, spotting rescued elephants bathing in lagoons, admiring stunning carved Buddhas at temples across the island, and searching for a plethora of wildlife in one of Sri Lanka's many national parks. Yes, our Sri Lankan escorted tours provide a wide variety of utterly unique cultural experiences which will leave you with lifelong memories.

Each of our tours is handcrafted to guarantee that you get the most out of your time away. We’ll first ask you exactly what you want to see and do in Sri Lanka, before crafting a package which ensures your time is spent wisely in the picturesque South Asian nation.

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Sri Lanka pearl in Indian ocean

Best of Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is the perfect escape for you, so relish this unforgettable journey of enchantment and adventure where you cover this Paradise Island’s Sandy Shores

Jewels of Sri Lanka

Holiday in Sri Lanka is an experience that covers the historical and cultural artifacts that remain in the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Pearl of Indian Ocean – Sri Lanka

This journey through Sri Lanka is precisely what you need for a detailed study of history, culture, and traditions of ancient and urban Sri Lanka.

Colonial Sri Lanka

Colonial Sri Lanka Tour is directed at a pundit of the colonial era’s high-end living and architectural elegance.

Nature and Adventure Trails of Sri Lanka

Nature and Adventure Trails of Sri Lanka – For all the nature lovers, whether young or aged, you’re bound to love this journey full of trails and scenic routes.

Sri Lanka Panorama

Tropical Sri Lanka is designed to connect you to a journey through the untouched landscapes of Sri Lanka, from serene beaches at Kalpitiya, exotic Wildlife at Wilpattu and all the way to the Yacht Life in Trincomalee.

Tropical Sri Lanka Wildlife and Beach

Cross the vast Sinharaja Rain Forest, the habitat of thousands of rare bird species while engaging in cherished activities such as Bird and Loris watching.

Click here for special offers . Book your dream vacation now and avail our limited time offers.

Why Tailormade Journeys?

Why you should travel with us.

Customise Your Tour

We take pride in meticulously crafting itineraries that are tailored to the unique desires and needs of our travelers. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, cultural immersion, or a blend of all three, we are here to design a journey that is perfect for you. Embark on a travel experience that you’ll cherish forever! For your customized itinerary, contact us today.

Our team of travel experts brings decades of experience in exploring the world and assisting travelers like you. You can rely on their deep expertise to meticulously craft your travel plans, ensuring a journey that is as seamless as it is memorable. Trust our professionals to guide you through the planning process, tailoring each detail to your preferences and needs.

Traveller's Feedback

We’ve assisted over thousands of travellers experience the journey of their dreams across the globe. Take a look at the feedback some of them have left, view testimonials.

ATOL Protected

Packages which include flight bookings are ATOL protected by the Civil Aviation Authority. ATOL Number : 9967 UK Regisration : 0528910 VAT (GB) : 867627084

Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime?

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Unforgettable Sri Lanka tour & Maldives escape

Share this trip.

Flight included
Accommodation
Transfer included
Activity included
13, 14, 16 or 17 nights
Maldives, Sri Lanka
total price from £ 5,018.00
price based on: 2 adults

Cinnamon Dhonveli Maldives

Temple of the Tooth, Kandy, Sri Lanka

The golden temple in Dambulla

The tea plantations at Haputale

Sri Lankan masks

The temple of Isurumuniya

Udawalawe National Park, Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka tea plantation

Lion's Rock, Sri Lanka

Hikkaduwa market, Sri Lanka

Galle, Sri Lanka

Negombo beach

We know plans can change. our flexible holidays let you rearrange your trip.

Choose from any alternative available dates. Includes refundable options. T&C's apply

From a spellbinding tour of Sri Lanka's highlights to a sumptuous Maldives beach break, with half-board, excursions, and all travel

Take an unforgettable trip to Sri Lanka's greatest natural and cultural treasures, and the tropical dream world of the Maldives. You’ll start your tour in Sri Lanka, where the country will captivate you with its scents, colours, and lively atmosphere, with beautiful landscapes featuring tea plantations and exciting nature parks. Afterwards, you’ll fly to the Maldives, where you can relax all day on the endless sandy beaches and swim in the crystal clear water. During your time in Sri Lanka, you’ll enjoy a wide range of excursions with a guide, to give you an insight into the fauna, flora, fascinating history and diverse culture of the country. You can also experience the delicious cuisine, take a train through tea plantations, get to know the prehistoric temples and much more. Spend your nights in stylish hotels along the way, with transfers and meals included. Prepare to be seduced by beautiful Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

Eight-night tour of Sri Lanka

Four or seven nights in the Maldives

Half-board basis included

Day 2: Negombo lagoon boat trip and Negombo city tour

Day 3: Village tour, catamaran trip and cooking workshop

Day 4: Dambulla caves and Ayurveda village visit

Day 5: Temple of the Tooth, Udawattakele Forest, Kandy city tour and cultural show

Day 6: Tea plantation visit and train ride from Nanu Oya to Haputhale

Day 7: Elephant rehabilitation centre visit

Day 8: Galle Fortress excursion

English-speaking guide for included excursions

Flight from Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester to Colombo and from Malé to Birmingham, Edinburgh, Glasgow, London Gatwick, London Heathrow, Manchester

Internal flight from Colombo to Male included

Private transfers included in Sri Lanka

Shared transfers included in the Maldives

Day 1: Colombo and Negombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka, otherwise known as the "Pearl of the Indian Ocean". You'll land in Colombo, where you'll be greeted by your driver who will drive you to your first hotel in Negombo on the west coast of the island. You’ll have the rest of the day to relax after the long journey, or to do whate…

Day 2-3: Negombo and Hiriwadunna

You’ll start the day with a boat trip in the Negombo lagoon while enjoying a cocktail or a fresh coconut drink, while you watch the sunrise over the mangroves of the lagoon, surrounded by local wildlife and fishing boats. Afterwards, you’ll head to Negombo for a fascinating city tour. You will then…

Day 4-5: Dambulla Cave Temple and Kandy

After a good night's sleep, today's excursion takes you to the Dambulla Cave Temple, better known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla (admission fee not included). Here you can explore the UNESCO-protected wonder, which features an abundance of beautiful statues and figures from the 1st century BC. La…

Day 6: Nuwara Eliya & train ride to Haputale

After breakfast on day 6, make your way to a tea plantation and factory in Nuwara Eliya. Here, you’ll learn everything about the production of Sri Lankan tea, including Ceylon tea, one of the world’s best known. You can also try having a go as a tea picker yourself!

Then it's time for a very sp…

Day 7: Udawalawe National Park

Day 7 begins after breakfast with a visit to Eth Athuru Sevana, an elephant rehabilitation centre. The centre, founded in 1995, takes care of baby elephants abandoned by the herd. Here, the elephants are looked after until they are old enough to take care of themselves. Baby elephants can be very l…

Day 8: Galle and Wadduwa

On day 8 you'll head to Wadduwa, with a stop in Galle on the way. Galle is an old fortress town, where the Portuguese landed in 1505. The city was later taken over by the Dutch, and the influence of Dutch sailors can still be seen in the city today (including the Dutch street names). You will be gu…

Day 9-12: Maldives

After a week-long tour of Sri Lanka, it's time for a few days of total relaxation in the paradise islands of the Maldives. You will be flown to Malé, the capital of the Maldives, on the island of Kaafu Atoll. The Maldives have the title of being the smallest country in Asia and are an archipelago o…

Day 9-15: Maldives

After a week-long tour of Sri Lanka, it's time for total relaxation in the paradise islands of the Maldives. You will be flown to Malé, the capital of the Maldives, on the island of Kaafu Atoll. The Maldives have the title of being the smallest country in Asia and are an archipelago of 1,190 tiny t…

Optional excursions

If you’d like to make your trip even more unforgettable, you can also book the following optional excursions. These excursions can be selected in the booking process.

• Elephant safari in a jeep in Minneriya National Park or Kaudulla National Park (Day 2) Observe the elephants in their natural habitat in Minneriya National Park or in Kaudulla National Park. The trip lasts about 3-4 hours and includes the transfer and guide.

• Sigiriya and Lion's Rock (Day 3) Discover Sigiriya, once the capital of northern Sri Lanka. Here you can visit the spectacular ruins of a temple perched on Lion's Rock. The temple is one of Sri Lanka's main attractions, and the beautiful frescoes, peaceful gardens with ponds and streams, and ancient statues attract thousands of visitors from around the world each year. The excursion lasts about 3-4 hours and includes the transfer, entrance fees and a guide.

• Royal Botanical Garden in Kandy (Day 5) The Royal Botanical Garden is home to one of the most impressive collections of orchids in the world, as well as over 4,000 other plant species. The tour lasts 2-3 hours and includes transfer, admission and guided tour.

• Jeep Safari in Udawalawe National Park (Day 7) The picturesque Udawalawe has been a national park since 1972 and is best known for its elephants. Go on a jeep safari in the park, where you can experience the fascinating, gentle giants as well as wild boar, deer and water buffalo. If you’re lucky, you might also see jackals and leopards. The trip lasts about 3-4 hours and includes transfer and guides.

Visa charges
Drinks with the included meals
Tips for tour guides and drivers (Approximately £3 for tour guides and approx. £2 for drivers, per person per day)

If you book this deal before 35 days of your departure, you can choose to pay in parts. The deposit will be 50% of the deal’s price, plus the booking fee and travel and/or cancellation insurance (when applicable). You will find the payment amounts and deadlines to pay every installment at the last step of the booking process.

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Our recommendation to visit sri lanka.

Map of Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle Tour

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Sri Lanka's Cultural Triangle Tour

Sri lanka in 10 days.

map-pin-check-icon Colombo
map-pin-check-icon Dambulla Caves
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map-pin-check-icon Nuwara Eliya
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Perfect for group travel! Enjoy a private, fully-escorted journey through Sri Lanka. It will take you to the country's major natural and historical landmarks, including the must-sees of the cultural triangle.

Our recommendation to visit Sri Lanka and neighboring countries

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Extraordinary Holiday Packages & Tours to Sri Lanka

Escape your comfort zone with Exoticca’s extraordinary tours to Sri Lanka. Make lasting memories as you discover this vibrant paradise island located in the Indian Ocean .

Roughly the size of West Virginia, the “Teardrop of India” offers extraordinary sights and thrilling activities . Disconnect from the grind and immerse yourself in new adventures.

Exoticca arranges all the details to deliver you to this dream destination. Most of our Sri Lanka tour packages include flights, hotels, transfers, and sometimes meals, too .

Trips to Sri Lanka from the UK

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Frequently Asked Questions

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Events and festivals in sri lanka, food in sri lanka, shopping in sri lanka, sri lanka tourist attractions.

Anuradhapura

Dambulla Caves

Nuwara Eliya

Polonnaruwa

Yala National Park

More information about sri lanka.

The ‘ Pearl of the Indian Ocean’ , Sri Lanka holidays are the paradise of tea plantations, lush elephant-filled jungles, endless beaches and fascinating ancient ruins. Legendary temples, such as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth , rub shoulders with the colourful colonial architecture of Colombo and Kandy , and historic monuments, such as Sigiriya , invite travellers to discover the charms and heritage of this unique island country.

Up in the highlands, the fresh, cool environment is home to endless tea plantations and characterful villages, whilst a total of 8 UNESCO World Heritage Sites makes a Sri Lanka tour package an eye-opening experience. Sri Lanka is also known for its rich and varied wildlife, much of which is protected inside nature reserves, such as Mirrierya and Yala National Park , where leopards, elephants and monkeys can be found in abundance.

Furthermore, Sri Lanka’s ancient national culture makes it a captivating travel destination. A teardrop-shaped island in the Indian Ocean , Sri Lanka is situated off of the coast of the Indian Sub-Continent . Its bustling capital of Colombo is the gateway to the country, full of aroma-filled markets, high-rises and quaint relics of its colonial past.

Sri Lanka tours often also include a visit to the city of Kandy , set amongst verdant mountains in the centre of the country. A simply beautiful city, Kandy is known for its vibrant local culture, historic buildings and buddhist temples and enjoys a cooler climate due to its highland location.

Away from the cities, a holiday to Sri Lanka is incomplete without contemplating the sunset or watching the unique fishing methods of its famous fishermen along the idyllic coastline. A popular honeymoon destination, Sri Lanka’s beaches range from tranquil stretches of white sand to rugged, surfer havens, attracting travellers from around the world.

History of Sri Lanka

Formerly Ceylon under British colonial rule, Sri Lanka’s history can be traced back 3,000 years. Buddhism has played a pivotal role in the history of the country, starting from its arrival on the island around the 3rd-century BC. It was in this year that the teachings of Buddhism attracted the attention of the Anwradhapur King , who quickly spread the word to his kingdom.

The population of the island at this time was overwhelmingly the Sinhalese , whose descendants still constitute 75% of Sri Lanka’s population today. The significance of Buddhism grew and developed through successive kingdoms across the centuries, and on a tour of Sri Lanka today you can even visit the famous Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi Tree , a sampling taken from the tree under which Buddha himself became enlightened and brought by Buddhist monks to Sri Lanka in 288 BC.

This now fully-grown sacred fig tree is a major site of pilgrimage. Sri Lanka’s location historically made it an important trade hub, with Portuguese explorers arriving on the island in 1505. It was not long until these colonists built a fort at the port city of Colombo in a bid to secure and extend their territory, eventually forcing the King of Sri Lanka to move his kingdom to Kandy , where he was able to successfully fight off two Portuguese offensives and defy foreign forces for 300-years. British colonists began to settle in Sri Lanka in the early 19th-century , developing coffee and later tea plantations, following a devastating plant disease that destroyed the entire coffee industry.

Interior divisions between Sinhalese and Tamil populations characterised much of Sri Lanka’s modern history, although the Ceylon National Congress unified both parties in a bid for sovereignty, resulting in the nation's independence in 1948 , although it was not until 1972 that Sri Lanka was officially renamed as an independent nation of the Commonwealth. A long and bitter civil war, starting in 1983 and lasting for 26 years has left its mark on the nation, causing hardships for the country’s economy and environment. In 2009, the Sri Lankan government finally defeated Tamil forces, bringing an end to the decades-long conflict. Another recent event that is sure to be in the memory of all who travel to Sri Lanka is the devastating 2004 Tsunami , one of the largest natural disasters in modern times.

Nature in Sri Lanka

A tropical Indian Ocean island, Sri Lanka enjoys year-round warm temperatures with rains brought on the monsoon winds between May and July in the southwest of the country and between October and January in the northeast. Home to diverse terrain, ranging from surfer-paradise beaches to mist-covered highlands, a Sri Lanka holiday is a great choice for wildlife and nature lovers. With an amazing 22 national parks , Sri Lanka takes protecting its natural abundance seriously.

The most famous reserve, Yala Nationa Park is home to the largest concentration of leopards in the world, as well as majestic Asian elephants, monkeys and colourful birdlife. Originating from the verdant highlands, Sri Lanka’s 103 rivers give rise to natural waterfalls, such as the beautiful Bambarakanda Falls , the highest in the country and an unmissable attraction on a tour of Sri Lanka. With more than 1,500 kilometres of coastline, beach-lovers are certainly spoilt for choice.

Arugam Bay, Hikkaduwa, Negombo and Mirissa Beach are just a handful of the most breathtaking beaches, mostly concentrated around the south and southeastern coasts of Sri Lanka. Inland, hilltop tea plantations and hiking routes, such as those around Ella Rock , offer tranquil outdoor pursuits in the crisp fresh-air and prove the diversity of Sri Lanka as a travel destination. Temperatures on the beach can be up to 20 degrees higher than those in the lush central highlands.

Culture in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka’s national culture has long been influenced by the practices and values of Theravada Buddhism, particularly in the south and central parts of the island, although the country’s colonial history has left its own marks, with elements of British, Portuguese and Dutch culture being seen in architecture, cuisine, music and even language. Hinduism is the second-largest religion and another important cornerstone of Sri Lankan culture. A trip to Sri Lanka is incomplete without experiencing the distinctive art forms, such as the colourful Kandyan dances of the highlands and the soul-stirring drumming of Sri Lankan folk music.

The two official languages are Sinhala and Tamil , although English is widely spoken, particularly in schools and business settings. A part of Sri Lankan culture that is known worldwide is their love of cricket. It is undoubtedly Sri Lanka’s favourite sport and the country ralliers together for the national teams most important matches, often closing businesses and schools to ensure their team has the full support of their country! A unique part of Sri Lankan culture is the significance of birds in everyday life. There are many stories about birds in traditional folklore, with different species believed to have luck-bringing properties. A number of traditional dances, such as the Kandian Peacock Dance , depict the significance of birds on the national culture.

An exceptional all-round travel destination, Sri Lanka offers both beachside relaxation and hilltop exploration. Take an iconic ride on a bright blue vintage train through the lush highlands, go snorkelling in the waters of the Indian Ocean , spot elephants in a national park or sip local tea in a leafy courtyard in Kandy , Sri Lanka holiday packages have universal appeal.

Entry requirements

Passport with a minimum validity of six months and at least two blank pages

An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) must be obtained before travelling. Available online here: http://www.eta.gov.lk/slvisa/. Appox.USD 40 per person + additional charge for the E visa. For more information: Sri Lanka Visa (srilankaevisa.lk)

UTC + 05:30.

Sri Lankan Rupee.

Tourist Office website

Electricity

220V. Adapter required.

Other useful information

People drive on the left-hand side of the road. Moving the head from side to side means yes.

There are no mandatory vaccinations for travellers from EU countries.

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2 Nights 3 Days Sri Lanka Package

Sri lanka 3 day trip, 03 days tour to sigiriya, kandy, nuwara eliya, ella & udawalawe, little england of nuwaraeliya, kandy excursion - 3 days, 3-day glimpse of sri lanka private tour, 3-day different discovery private wildlife tour, nightlife in colombo, city sightseeing 2 nights colombo, experience the diverse south - free upgrade to private tour available.

Sightseeing
Christmas & New Year
Explore Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
Tour the Temple of the Holy Tooth
Visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

In-depth Cultural
Watch a vibrant Kandyan dance performance
Discover Colombo's rich history and culture
Explore the sacred Temple of the Tooth

“Amazing 3 days! Favourite day was at the tea plantations at Nuwara Eliya.”

03 Days Tour to Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella & Udawalawe

Climb the majestic Sigiriya Rock
Explore Dambulla Cave Temple
Enjoy views from Kandy View Point

Discover Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
Enjoy a traditional Kandy Dancing Show
Explore Ramboda Waterfalls and tea plantations

“Sri Lanka number one cold place of NuwaraEliya very beautiful and have many mounts and river.”

Bask in the architectural masterpiece of the Temple of the Tooth
Gaze upon rolling hills smothered in emerald-green tea plantations
Say hello to the baby elephants of Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage

“The itinerary was brilliant, the hotels very good, customer service spot on, highly recommend.”

Visit an apparent relic of Lord Buddha at Temple of tooth
Marvel at up close and personal encounters with elephants
Enjoy the freedom and flexibility of your own private tour

“We got to experience a lot more than we thought, i would recommend anyone that goes to Sri Lanka to book Beyond Escapes.”

3-Day Different Discovery Private Wildlife Tour

Feel the excitement of wildlife and nature in the night
Discover the wondrous nature of Sinharaja rain forest

“The Rainforest Eco Lodge was an amazing place. The Yalla Leopards Nest Glamping location was muddy, so a little unpleasant arriving in the dark.”

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Dine at Paradise Road The Gallery Cafe
Choose between casinos or live music clubs
Visit Gangarama Temple and Seema Malakaya

Visit Kelani Raja Maha Vihara, a historic site
Experience Colombo's vibrant nightlife
Explore Gangarama Temple at dusk

Experience the Diverse South - Free Upgrade to Private Tour Available

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Cycle Sri Lanka

14 days | discover a world of spice and splendour on a cycling trip across sri lanka.

Guided by an expert local leader, this 10-day cycling trip through Sri Lanka will take you to tea plantations, fishing villages, national parks, cities and lush green jungles. From Negombo to Colombo, you’ll see why Sri Lanka is Asia’s most exciting new destination. With pristine coastline, ancient ruins, rugged peaks and wildlife-filled national parks, it’s a dream for travellers who like to get active. In between two-wheeled treks, you can go on safari to spot leopards, take on optional food crawls, laze on the beaches of the southern coast, ride the rails (a must in Sri Lanka), explore the country’s premier Hindu and Buddhist sites, and see the famed UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya. With days of riding and nights of feasting, Sri Lanka will soon make its way to your heart.

Trip overview

Ride to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Sigiriya – an ancient rock fortress surrounded by lush greenery. Climb the stairs of Lion Rock and be rewarded for your efforts with a morning breakfast at the top with panoramic views.
Cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura and enjoy a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city, riding through woodlands, exploring the ruins and getting a peek of the sacred old Bo Tree.
Step back in time as you explore Sri Lanka’s most important religious and heritage sites, including the Temple of Tooth Relic and Kataragama.
Join optional food crawls in most locations and connect with the best local street food – from the freshly caught seafood of Negombo to the pulsing night markets of Colombo, this is the best way to experience Sri Lanka’s food cuisine.
After cycling through cities, national parks and historic sites, take the chance to relax on the sandy beaches of the southern coast. Go swimming in the clear waters, take an optional cycle to nearby Weligama to see the colourful fishing boats selling their catch on the shore and watch the sunset.
By travelling on this trip, you’ll directly support our Intrepid Foundation partner, World Bicycle Relief. Donations provide school kids, health workers, and farmers in far-out areas with bicycles that provide access to education, healthcare, and income.
To complete this trip, it’s important that you’re both confident and competent in riding a bicycle. As the riding is mostly on sealed roads in varying states of repair, with the occasional gravel path, no technical cycling skills are required. But some downhill practice is a great idea before your trip.
While the cycling distances on this trip are relatively short, the terrain of Sri Lanka is naturally hilly, so you’ll need to be reasonably fit, especially given the warm climate. This applies to the included activities which can add to the potential fatigue. The support vehicle will always be there if you need to take a break for an hour or a day.
On this trip you have an expert cycling leader as well as a cycling guide/mechanic with you.
Sri Lankan summers are very hot, with short, sharp monsoons in the southwest. Be sure to use adequate sun protection and drink plenty of water. The weather in this region also varies seasonally, so be prepared to get sweaty, and experience the occasional rainstorm, which may lead to a change of plans.
If you have issues with heights, you might like to opt out of climbing the Lion Rock at Sigiriya (Day 6). There are lots of rough, narrow steps and tight walkways here.
If you feel like doing all the riding but with less effort, you can hire an electric bike (e-bike) on this trip.

View the itinerary for departures between 01 January 2023 - 31 December 2024

Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the town of Negombo, close to the airport. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 5:30 pm tonight, but if you arrive early, you can get into the spirit of seaside Sri Lanka by observing the local fishing craft in the town. Maybe feast on fresh seafood or rent a bike from the hotel reception and explore the surrounding countryside on two wheels. Tonight, your leader will have great recommendations for local dinner spots.

Hotel (1 night)

There are no meals included on this day.

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance and emergency contact details at this time. If you are going to be late please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

Rise early and have some breakfast at the hotel, then start your cycling adventure with a test-ride through the city streets. Cycle from Negombo to Chilaw, through fishing villages, the scenic Dutch canal, coconut plantations and various tile factories. Sit down for a picnic lunch when you arrive in Chilaw. After, hop aboard a coach and travel to Anuradhapura. Here, you can settle into your hotel, relax and perhaps take a swim in the pool. You have the option of joining a 'food crawl' through the streets and markets of Anuradhapura tonight – this is a great chance to sample some tasty local cuisine.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Your cycling distance will be approximately 47km (29 mi) on mostly flat roads with about 150 m (500 ft) of elevation gain.

After breakfast, cycle to the UNESCO World Heritage site of Anuradhapura for a guided bicycle tour of the ancient city. Among the ruins you'll see the sacred old Bo Tree – a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura's great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, with some in woodland settings and others appearing more cultivated with columns and ponds dotted throughout. Visit the impressive Isurumuniya Temple and the Anuradhapura Museum, then sit down with your group for a local lunch. Return to the hotel for a free afternoon and evening.

Anuradhapura - Bodhi Tree Temple
Anuradhapura - World Heritage Site of ancient kingdom ruins
Anuradhapura - Isurumuniya Temple

Your cycling distance will be approximately 25 kms (16 mi) on mostly flat roads with about 120 m (390 ft) of elevation gain.

Cycle from Anuradhapura to Ritigala this morning, passing rice paddies, man-made water tanks and jungle scenery. Have some lunch along the way at a countryside kiosk then visit the beautiful Ritigala monastery, which dates back nearly 2000 years and is named after the mountain on which it sits. After exploring the site and learning a thing or two about its local mythology, board a coach and travel to Polonnaruwa. When you arrive, take the opportunity to relax and recharge.

Ritigala Monastery Entrance

Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. Your cycling distance will be approximately 45 km (28 mi) on mostly flat roads with about 180m (590 ft) of elevation gain.

Saddle up for a morning ride to Polonnaruwa – the second oldest kingdom in Sri Lanka. Visit the Vihara Temple, Parakrama Statue and Siva Temple while you explore the site, then cycle to Diyabeduma. The scenery along the way includes sanctuaries, man-made channels and farmlands. Refuel with a picnic lunch then travel from to Dambulla by coach. In the evening, you'll visit the Dambulla wholesale vegetable market, where there will be an option to join in on a local food crawl.

Polonnaruwa ancient ruins

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour. Your cycling distance will be approximately 54 km (34 mi) on mostly flat roads with about 340m (1100 ft) of elevation gain.

Early this morning, you’ll cycle from your hotel in Dambulla to Sigiriya – this UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to an ancient rock fortress that sits 200 m high among the surrounding gardens and reservoirs. Along the way, see the water garden, the boulder garden, the mirror wall and Sigiriya's frescos. You’ll want your camera today as the image of this site against the skyline is one to remember. Hike to the top of the fortress and enjoy some well-earned breakfast at the peak, taking in the panoramic views. After, jump back on your bike and pedal your way through the countryside, stopping for lunch at a spice garden near Matale. Enjoy a rest in the support vehicle as you drive the final leg to Kandy. Tonight, you’ll be treated to a traditional Kandyan dance performance – an insight into an age-old culture.

Sigiriya - Lion Rock Fortress Visit
Kandy - Cultural Dance Performance - USD7

Your travel time today will be approximately 1 hour. Your cycling distance will be approximately 45km (28mi) on mostly flat roads with about 245 m (800ft) of elevation gain.

The visit to Lion Rock takes around 3.5 hours. It will be a steep climb with plenty of steps and walkways along the side of the rock. Those not wanting to go to the top can rest at the lion's paw until the rest of the group returns.

After breakfast at the hotel, you have the option to either head out for some extra cycling in the Hanthana Mountain Range (weather/time permitting) or stay in Kandy and explore. Later this morning, you’ll head to Giragama for a guided tour of a tea factory, learning about how Sri Lanka's favourite drink is made and sampling some of the delicious varieties. For lunch, visit the Hela Bojun Restaurant – a social enterprise founded by the agriculture ministry of the Sri Lankan government to provide employment for women from local communities while training and empowering them. Try some Sri Lankan dishes prepared by the women while learning a little more about the restaurant and their important mission. The rest of the afternoon is free. Tonight, visit the Temple of Tooth Relic – the most important Buddhist site in the country – then return to town for a food crawl.

Kandy - Temple of the Tooth
Kandy - Hela Bojun social enterprise lunch
Giragama Tea Factory Tour

No included riding today but optional rides are available - just ask your leader. The tea factory will be closed on poya (the full moon) days and public holidays.

Transfer to Kandy railway station after breakfast this morning. From the station, you’ll embark on a scenic train trip from Kandy to Hatton, where you’ll then cycle to Maskeliya. Ride through leafy tea plantations to your lunch spot, where you’ll enjoy an authentic Tamil meal from a local kiosk. Check into your guesthouse, then relax this afternoon. If you like, you can take on an optional trek of Adam's Peak – a conical, snow-capped mountain that sits at 2243 m high. The pilgrimage season runs from late May to early December and is a fascinating time to visit.

Scenic train ride from Kandy to Hatton

Your cycling distance will be approximately 40 kms (25 mi) on roads with a light climb, turning to mostly downhill, with about 550 m (1800 ft) of elevation gain.

Train tickets are in very high demand. We always try our best to secure tickets, but on the rare occasion that we cannot book them, you will continue your journey by private vehicle. The Adam's Peak trekking option is usually best done from late May to early December, with December and January having the best weather, but due to inclement weather and safety concerns it can be cancelled at any time.

Enjoy a hearty breakfast before cycling down from Bogawanthalawa to Balangoda. This is a short ride but one of the most beautiful stretches of road in Sri Lanka, following a path along the tea plantations and pine forest passes. Alongside mountainous views, you’ll cycle through tall trees, lush vegetation and serene landscapes with a soundtrack of birdsong. Maybe see some trickling waterfalls before stopping among the green slopes of Balangoda for lunch. Then, transfer to Tissamaharama. When you arrive, wind down at your hotel and share stories over a group dinner.

Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Your cycling distance will be approximately 25km (15 mi) mostly uphill with about 565m (1850ft) of elevation gain.

Cycle the tree lines roads through villages from Tissamaharama to Kataragama after breakfast. The holy city of Kataragama is a colourful and vibrant religious centre that rivals Adam's Peak in terms of national importance. This is where the two-week Kataragama Festival attracts thousands of Hindus and tourists each year in July/August. After, take a jeep ride through the beautiful Yala National Park – home to elephants, crocodiles and waterbirds like the great thick-knee. Yala also lays claim to one of the world's highest concentration of leopards! Return to Tissamaharama for the night where you’ll sit down for a group dinner.

Yala/Udawalawe National Park - Wildlife safari

Your cycling distance will be approximately 26km (16 mi) on lightly undulating roads with about 160 m (530 ft) of elevation gain.

Overtourism and lack of sustainable management practices have become a major concern for us in continuing to visit Yala. In order to reduce our impact on wildlife and the environment we are trialling visiting a less touristed section of Yala, known as Block 5. Should we determine that high tourist numbers at Block 5 also make it difficult to continue visiting responsibly, we will change our itinerary to visit Udawalawe National Park, where wild elephants, wild buffalo, sambar deer and leopards also reside.

In September and October, when Yala National Park is closed annually for infrastructure development and rejuvenation, we follow the alternate itinerary of Bundala National Park.

After breakfast, cycle from Tissamaharama to Hambantota via Bundala National Park. After lunch at Hambantota, continue to Mirissa on your bike. You’ll have a free afternoon of beach time in Mirissa, where you can chill out and swim. The beach itself is a long curve of sand with clear waters, perfect for taking a dip and watching the sunset. You can also cycle to nearby Weligama, where the colourful fishing boats bring fresh fish to sell along the shore. The local cottage industry of lace products is also well worth a look if you’re seeking something authentic to bring home.

Your cycling distance will be approximately 41kms (25mi) on mostly flat roads with about 30 m (100ft) of elevation gain.

Enjoy a free morning to relax or if you like, go whale-watching (this activity is more successful from November through to April). Later, you’ll drive to Galle, stopping near the Galle Fort entrance on the way to meet with a local artisan Mr Sunil. A traditional woodcarving expert, he will take you through a practical demonstration of the craft and encourage you to give it a go yourself. When you arrive in Galle – home to an impressive World Heritage-listed Dutch fort with extensive walls and many old buildings – spend the evening exploring. Take a stroll around the historic fort and watch the sunset from the ramparts before driving back to Mirissa.

Buddhist Temple Visit
Galle - Traditional Sri Lankan Wood Carving - demonstration and participation

Your travel time will be approximately 2 hours.

While the famous stilt fishermen casting lines are an iconic sight, unfortunately this has become a real tourist trap, with travellers expected to pay for the opportunity of taking a photo. We advise our travellers to use their best judgement before paying for a photo.

Depart Mirissa after breakfast and drive to Colombo. When you arrive, check into your hotel and then head out on a leader-led walk of the city, passing the bustling Petta Bazaar, Independence Square, Parliament and the National Museum. You’ll finish at the Barefoot fairtrade store, where you can find a collection of handicrafts from around the country and support small cottage industries. Tonight, there's an optional group food crawl to celebrate your journey. If you’d like to celebrate a trip well travelled, you’ll head to the local market stalls and tuck into some of Sri Lanka’s best street foods.

Your travel time will be approximately 3 hours.

There are no activities planned after breakfast today and your adventure comes to an end. You're free to leave at any time after check out. If you'd like to extend your stay, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time to organise additional accommodation.

12 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 2 dinners

Bicycle (e-bike option available, subject to availability), Support vehicle, Train, Jeep

Hotels (13 nights)

Dates and availability

Important notes.

1. A Single Supplement is available on this trip, please ask your booking agent for more information. 2. Bicycle hire is included in your trip price. Please advise your height at time of booking so as we can organise a suitable sized bike. 3. An e-bike option (at additional cost) may be available on this trip. We have limited numbers of these bikes available and they are an 'on request' basis only. A request does not guarantee an e-bike, only a confirmed booking. Please ask your agent for more details at the time of booking. 4. Bike helmets are compulsory on this trip. We are unable to hire bike helmets locally so please ensure you bring your own bike helmet from home. 5. Due to Intrepid's stance on elephant cruelty we do not visit the Perahera Festival and cannot purchase tickets on your behalf. 6. Train tickets are in very high demand. We always try our best to secure tickets, but on the rare occasion that we cannot book them, you will continue your journey by private vehicle. 7. Please provide your full name exactly as per passport at the time of booking for train tickets. Fees may apply for amendments to details within 45 days of departure, and in some cases you will be required to cover the cost of issuing new tickets.

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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Plan your tours, beach and multi centre holidays to Sri Lanka with the UK & Ireland's No1 to Sri Lanka. 0%. 020 7084 6504 Sri Lanka Specialists; Find my local Travel Centre store_mall ... These neighbouring Indian Ocean destinations offer the chance to combine a fascinating tour of Sri Lanka's cultural and natural highlights with utter ...
Sri Lankan Holidays & Escorted Tours with Titan Travel
Why travel to Sri Lanka with Titan. Our tours to Sri Lanka have been carefully designed to ensure you really get under the skin of this incredible island. You'll see and do lots, with expert guides on hand to bring each location to life. Your holiday includes our award-winning VIP door-to-door travel service from anywhere on the UK mainland ...
Sri Lanka Tour and Travel Packages: Book Your Holiday Trip
Explore the beauty of Sri Lanka with our tour and travel packages. Book your holiday trip today and experience the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of Sri Lanka. ... UK Regisration: 0528910 VAT (GB): 867627084. Are you ready for the adventure of a lifetime? * Represents mandatory fields. 🇬🇧 +44-1753-201201/577330; 🇺🇸🇨🇦 ...
The Best Sri Lanka Tours & Trips 2024/2025
Yala National Park. 63 tours. In Sri Lanka's Yala National Park, you can catch glimpses of leopards, elephants, and crocodiles on a thrilling safari. Marvel at the park's rich and varied ecosystem, from dense jungles to tranquil lagoons, and explore ancient rock temples. See all Yala National Park tours.
Best of Sri Lanka
Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today. My Wishlist My Booking 0808 274 5111 Destinations ... Negombo, Sri Lanka Finish Colombo, Sri Lanka Theme Explorer Destinations Sri Lanka Physical rating. Indicates how physically exerting a trip is, and how fit you will need to be to enjoy it. ...
Sri Lanka Tour Packages
South Asia Leisure Travel is a leading Sri Lanka Tour Packages Provider That offers customizing and tailor-made tour packages for USA, Canada, Australia, UK, Germany, France, Belgium, Italy, Spain, Russia, Netherlands, Sweden, Norway, Austria, Czech Republic, UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Galle, Mirissa, Unawatuna, Hikkaduwa, Ella ...
Sri Lanka Tours
8 Day Incredible Sri Lanka Exclusive Group Tour. See the best of Sri Lanka on this eight-day tour. With the help of your English-speaking guide, you can explore this beautiful island in comfort and style. £1,559pp. 7 nights bed and breakfast including tour, hotel stays and flights. 4 Day Sri Lanka Highlights.
Unforgettable Sri Lanka tour & Maldives escape
Four or seven nights in the Maldives. Half-board basis included. Day 2: Negombo lagoon boat trip and Negombo city tour. Day 3: Village tour, catamaran trip and cooking workshop. Day 4: Dambulla caves and Ayurveda village visit. Day 5: Temple of the Tooth, Udawattakele Forest, Kandy city tour and cultural show.
Luxury Sri Lanka Holidays & Tours
On a Sri Lanka luxury holiday, a large dose of tropical warmth awaits, in both the weather and the welcome. Once lured by jewels and spices, travellers now embark on Sri Lanka escorted tours and enjoy Sri Lanka luxury itineraries for the sand and sunshine. But it's much more than a beach destination.
Sri Lanka Holiday Packages & Tours at -35%
Originating from the verdant highlands, Sri Lanka's 103 rivers give rise to natural waterfalls, such as the beautiful Bambarakanda Falls, the highest in the country and an unmissable attraction on a tour of Sri Lanka. With more than 1,500 kilometres of coastline, beach-lovers are certainly spoilt for choice.
Sri Lanka Tours & Trips With International Flights Included
Intl. Flights Included. Experience Galle's Dutch fort and colonial history. Tour the historic city of Kandy and its temples. Discover the cave temples of Dambulla. Duration. 14 days. Destinations. Colombo, Negombo, Sigiriya, Dambulla, Matale, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Tissamaharama, Yala See all destinations.
10 Best 3 Day Sri Lanka Tours & Trips
10 best Sri Lanka 3 day tour packages. Compiled by. Nina Sri Lanka travel expert at TourRadar. 3-Day Glimpse of Sri Lanka Private Tour. 3-Day Different Discovery Private Wildlife Tour. 2 Nights 3 Days Sri Lanka Package. Sri Lanka 3 Day Trip. 03 Days Tour to Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Ella & Udawalawe. Kandy Excursion - 3 Days.
Outbound Tour Packages from Sri Lanka
Hayleys Travels brings you some of the most diverse and competitive Holiday Packages for travellers from Sri Lanka to destinations across the globe. ... our packages aim to satisfy any requirement and ensure the best travel experience. +94 74 044 6841 Inquiry. Inquire Now. Subject * Phone number * Name * Email * Message * Filtered By; The ...
Cycle Sri Lanka
Affordable travel packages and the experience of a lifetime. Book an Intrepid tour today. My Wishlist My Booking 0808 274 5111 Destinations Ways to travel Deals ... Cycling in Sri Lanka is the most wonderful tour. We met so many lovely Sri Lankan people. Our guide was so knowledgeable about the culture, wildlife and food, we ate so many ...