Sensational Sri Lanka
Daily all year although best time for weather on the east coast is April-October*.
PRIVATE tour
- Breakfast. Half board in Yala.
- The price shown for this privately escorted tour by air-conditioned car is based on the best value travel dates in low season and includes return international flights from the UK, private transfers, 3-5* accommodation between days 2-11), 4nts accommodation at 4* Trinco Blu by Cinnamon at Trincomalee (or upgrade to 5* UGA Bay at Passikudah from £129), private sightseeing as outlined and services of an English speaking guide. Also available with 4* and 5* accommodation throughout or boutique properties and air taxi transfers. Extensions are also available in each destination.
- Due to en route sightseeing and the nature of the scenic, winding roads, some journeys can take several hours. However, air taxis are available for some routes, cutting journey times considerably (sometimes by up to 6 hours). Please ask for details.*It is also possible for the tour to include south and south west coast beaches, although this does affect the order of the tour. Please ask for details.
- This holiday is 100% financially protected. ATOL protected 2713
See the highlights of Sri Lanka on this escorted tour, beginning with two nights in Colombo before heading to Yala National Park for an exciting wildlife safari. Explore the scenic tea plantations and lush hills around Ella, visit the cultural city of Kandy and discover ancient temples and historic sites in the Cultural Triangle - made up of Sigiriya, Habarana and Dambulla. Then, enjoy four relaxing nights on the beautiful east coast in Trincomalee, known for its golden beaches and turquoise waters, before ending with an overnight stay in Negombo. This journey offers a wonderful introduction to Sri Lanka.
Our suggested itinerary is a starting point
We're specialists in tailor-made holidays, where we can adapt each itinerary to suit your requirements
Days 1-2 Colombo
Fly to Colombo. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure to relax. Explore independently and step out on a personalised "Old Colombo" Walking tour, which allows you to experience the amazing architecture left behind by the Dutch and British.
Days 3-4 Yala National Park
Drive to Yala National Park. On your first safari this afternoon keep watch for elephant, boar, buffalo, leopard, bear, deer and crocodile along with large flocks of migratory and indigenous birds (approx 3½ hours drive). Rise early for a jeep safari in the hope of spotting more amazing wildlife. The rest of the day is at leisure or you can take an optional excursion to Bundala National Park (at extra cost), which is home to over 197 species of birds including large flocks of greater flamingoes.
Days 5-6 Ella
Drive to Ella and visit Nine Arch Bridge by tuk tuk. Lying in the midst of thick jungle and tea plantations, this viaduct is truly a beautiful sight and one of the best examples of colonial-era railway construction in Sri Lanka (approx 2 hours drive). Depart for Bambaragala Pathna, a popular hiking spot, to watch the sunrise. It's a relaxing uphill walk under the shady trees to the viewpoint where you're rewarded with stunning views. Visit Little Adam's Peak, a scenic area with walks amid lush tea plantations and waterfalls.
Visit to Halpe Watte tea plantation and factory to learn how tea is manufactured and graded before tasting a cup of pure Ceylon tea.
Day 7 Kandy
Next is Kandy, the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. An evening city tour includes Kandy Lake, the town, bazaar, and gem museum. You'll also visit the Temple of the Tooth and see a cultural show (approx 4½ hours drive).
Days 8-10 The Cultural Triangle
Set off this morning for the Cultural Triangle stopping enroute in Dambulla, a hub treasured by many kings since the 1st century. Visit the incredible Dambulla Rock Temple which houses five cave temples with exquisite paintings and 150 statues of Lord Buddha. Travel onwards to Sigiriya or Habarana (approx 4 hours drive). A tour highlight as you visit 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Explore the extensive gardens that ring the base, see world-renowned frescos and if so inclined it's a 600 feet climb to the top. Later, drive to Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO World Heritage Site (approx 1½ hours). See the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Viharaya - four colossal statues carved from granite, the Lotus Bath, and Audience Hall. At leisure or you can take an optional excursion to Minneriya National Park for a jeep safari (from £69).
Days 11-14 Trincomalee
Depart this morning for the East coast resort of Trincomalee, which sits on one of the world's finest natural harbours. Unwind beside the hotel pool or on the gorgeous, unspoiled beaches.
Day 15 Negombo
Morning departure for Negombo (approx 6 hours drive). On arrival you are free to relax.
Day 16 Depart
Transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Need to know
Departures
Daily all year although best time for weather on the east coast is April-October*.
Meals
Breakfast. Half board in Yala.
Tour price
The price shown for this privately escorted tour by air-conditioned car is based on the best value travel dates in low season and includes return international flights from the UK, private transfers, 3-5* accommodation between days 2-11), 4nts accommodation at 4* Trinco Blu by Cinnamon at Trincomalee (or upgrade to 5* UGA Bay at Passikudah from £129), private sightseeing as outlined and services of an English speaking guide. Also available with 4* and 5* accommodation throughout or boutique properties and air taxi transfers. Extensions are also available in each destination.
Notes
Due to en route sightseeing and the nature of the scenic, winding roads, some journeys can take several hours. However, air taxis are available for some routes, cutting journey times considerably (sometimes by up to 6 hours). Please ask for details.*It is also possible for the tour to include south and south west coast beaches, although this does affect the order of the tour. Please ask for details.
