Upon arrival in Colombo, we'll transfer to the coastal town of Negombo for our first two nights in Sri Lanka. Our stay will be at a comfortable hotel. Later, we’ll kick off the journey with a welcome drink, where you’ll meet our Tour Manager and fellow travellers, before enjoying a delicious dinner together.

After a relaxed morning, we’ll set off on a sightseeing tour of Colombo, a city rich in cultural diversity, religious heritage, and colonial history. We’ll explore landmarks like the impressive New and Old Parliaments, Independence Square, and the bustling Pettah district, known for its vibrant open-air bazaars. We’ll also admire the stunning architecture of Gangaramaya Temple.

Next, we’ll dive into Colombo’s lively food scene on a walking tour, where we’ll sample delicious local street food, browse artisanal markets, and visit traditional eateries to experience the true flavors of the city.

For early risers, there’s an optional visit to Lellama village, home to the country’s second-largest fish market, where over 4,000 boats set sail daily. You’ll have the chance to chat with locals while taking in the impressive day’s catch. Afterward, we return to the hotel for a hearty breakfast before heading to Dambulla.

Upon arrival, we’ll check in at our hotel, where we’ll stay for the next two nights. In the afternoon, we’ll embark on an exciting game drive in either Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park, both nestled in the breathtaking Sri Lankan countryside, offering a chance to see wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat.

We start the day with an early breakfast before heading to the renowned site of Sigiriya to uncover its captivating history. Encircled by the remnants of vast landscaped gardens, the highlight is Sigiriya Rock, a towering flat-topped formation rising 200 meters above sea level, set amidst the ruins of an ancient civilization. Those feeling adventurous can ascend to the summit, passing exquisite frescoes and the iconic ‘Lion’s Paws’ along the way.

Later, we indulge in a traditional Sri Lankan lunch before journeying to the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, we’ll explore the impressive Royal Palace complex, including the grand King’s Palace and Audience Hall. A true highlight awaits at the breathtaking Gal Vihara complex, where four monumental Buddha statues, expertly carved from a single slab of granite, stand as a testament to ancient Sri Lankan artistry.

This morning, we set off for Kandy, the Last Kingdom of Sri Lanka. Along the way, we visit the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple, a stunning complex dating back to the 1st century BC, adorned with intricate murals and impressive Buddha statues.

Next, we stop at a Sri Lankan Spice Garden in the rural village of Matale, a working spice and fruit farm where our host will introduce us to the region’s aromatic trees and crops. Here, we’ll enjoy a traditionally-prepared rice and curry lunch before continuing to Kandy, where we check in at our hotel for the next two nights.

After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour through Yatiwawala village, passing lush jungle paths, rice fields, and spice gardens. Along the way, see water buffalo grazing and stop at an Ambalama, a traditional shelter built by ancient kings.

Hop into tuk-tuks to Menikkumbura market, where you’ll meet the local Ayurvedic doctor and learn about traditional healing. Then, join a hands-on cooking class to prepare and taste authentic Sri Lankan dishes before returning to the hotel for a relaxed afternoon.

In the evening, visit the revered Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa), home to Buddha’s sacred relic, and witness the moving evening ceremony. Conclude the day with a vibrant cultural show of traditional Sri Lankan dance.

Today, we travel into the cooler climes of Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country, embarking on a local train journey through breathtaking landscapes. As we wind through lush forests, charming villages, rolling tea estates, and cascading waterfalls, we’ll soak in the idyllic beauty of this region. Please note that while we make every effort to secure train tickets as soon as they become available, this experience is subject to availability.

Upon arrival in Nuwara Eliya, we’ll take a brief city tour, exploring this picturesque town known for its colonial charm and cool climate. We then check in at our hotel, where stunning countryside views provide the perfect setting for a relaxing stay.

After breakfast, we immerse ourselves in Sri Lanka’s tea culture with a hands-on tea-plucking experience. Dressed in traditional attire, we’ll head to the organic tea fields, where expert tea pluckers will guide us in selecting the perfect leaves and mastering the delicate technique of gathering them—ensuring more leaves make it into our baskets than onto the ground!

After this authentic experience, we’ll unwind and savor a delightful High Tea at the hotel, the perfect way to end our day in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country.

After breakfast, we journey to Udawalawe, where we check in for an overnight stay at our hotel. Once settled, we set out on an afternoon safari in Udawalawe National Park, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts.

Famous for its thriving elephant population, the park offers a fantastic opportunity to observe these gentle giants up close. It’s also a paradise for birdwatchers, with a diverse array of species to spot. Keep an eye out for deer, buffalo, and crocodiles as we explore the park’s stunning landscapes from the comfort and safety of our guided safari vehicle.

Start the day with an optional dawn safari in Udawalawe National Park, a prime time to spot wildlife. After breakfast, visit the Elephant Transit Home, where orphaned baby elephants are rehabilitated before being released back into the wild.

We then continue to Yala and check in for our overnight stay. In the afternoon, enjoy an exciting safari through Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s largest and most famous reserve. Known as one of the best places in the world to see leopards, Yala also shelters elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, wild boars, and countless bird species amid its mix of open plains, jungles, and watering holes.

This morning, there’s an opportunity to embark on an optional second safari in Yala National Park for those eager to further explore its diverse wildlife.

Later, we begin our journey to Kalutara, stopping en route in the historic city of Galle. Once Sri Lanka’s main maritime port for over 200 years, Galle is renowned for its well-preserved Dutch fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As we explore, we’ll admire colonial architecture, wander through charming streets lined with stylish cafés and boutique shops, and soak in the city’s unique coastal charm.

We then continue to Kalutara, where we’ll spend our final two nights in Sri Lanka, unwinding at our beachfront resort.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure, whether you choose to relax at the resort or explore more of the region through optional excursions.

One option is a Madu River Boat Safari, where we’ll glide through the wetland estuaries, navigating serene waterways lined with mangroves. This excursion includes lunch, as well as a visit to Kosgoda Beach, one of Sri Lanka’s key nesting grounds for marine turtles. Here, we’ll admire these fascinating creatures up close and learn about the important conservation efforts protecting them.

Alternatively, you can join a tour to Ahangama and try your hand at the unique Sri Lankan tradition of stilt fishing. This experience also includes a visit to local villages, where we’ll gain insight into traditional finger-weaving techniques and see how artisanal household items are crafted by hand.

Transfer to the airport for your flight home.