Welcome to Sri Lanka! Our adventure begins in the coastal town of Negombo, just a 30-minute drive from Colombo airport.

Around 6pm, say ayubowan to your tour leader and fellow travellers at our hotel, where we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead.

Your tour leader then ensures a big Sri Lankan welcome by arranging a group dinner together. Weather permitting, we’ll eat on the beach, sampling specialities such as Negombo crab curry, hoppers and pittu. It’s the perfect introduction to the island’s vibrant flavours and warm hospitality.

Want to explore further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: Jetwing Beach (or similar)

We begin the day with a visit to Negombo’s bustling fish market, where fishermen bring in their daily catch and traders gather among colourful stalls and drying areas. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the working life and coastal heritage of this fishing community.

Leaving the coast behind, we travel through coconut groves, paddy fields and rural villages towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. En route, we visit a community-run weaving workshop in Dunagaha, meeting local craftspeople and learning about techniques that continue to provide livelihoods for local families. We also enjoy a cup of homemade tea before continuing to Sigiriya.

Later this afternoon, we tackle one of Sri Lanka’s most extraordinary landmarks: the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Perhaps the island’s most iconic attraction, this Unesco World Heritage Site is crowned by the ruins of a fifth-century royal palace, perched atop an imposing granite peak known as Lion Rock. Our ascent takes us up a series of steep steps and gangways, climbing 655ft (200m) above the surrounding plains. Along the way, we pass ancient frescoes depicting female figures holding flowers and offerings, before reaching the flat-topped summit and the extensive remains of the royal palace. Here, our efforts are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across the surrounding countryside.

Accommodation: Aliya Resort (or similar)

Today brings together two of Sri Lanka’s great treasures: remarkable ancient history and magnificent wildlife.

We head off for a safari in Minneriya, Kaudulla or Hurulu Eco Park, choosing the location according to the movements of the wild elephant herds. Travelling by 4×4, we search for these remarkable animals in their natural habitat, with opportunities to observe their behaviour against a backdrop of forest and grassland.

Later, we explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once a flourishing royal capital of Sri Lanka. Among the atmospheric ruins, we discover intricately carved Buddhist sculptures, impressive stupas, royal palaces and sacred temples that reflect the remarkable achievements of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilisation.

Accommodation: Aliya Resort (or similar)

This morning offers a special opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s Buddhist traditions. At a local temple, we join villagers as they prepare a traditional devotional food offering, gaining insight into the customs and community spirit at the heart of Buddhist life. We then witness the offering of alms to Buddhist monks and receive a blessing as part of this sacred ritual.

We then visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a Unesco World Heritage Site where centuries-old Buddhist paintings and statues fill a series of atmospheric rock caves.

Continuing east, we journey towards Gal Oya, a relatively remote wilderness of forests, lakes and traditional communities. We settle into our wilderness accommodation, surrounded by the sounds and tranquillity of nature.

This evening we visit members of the indigenous Vedda community, learning about their heritage and traditions.

Accommodation: Wild Glamping Gal Oya (or similar)

Wake to the sounds of nature and enjoy breakfast in a beautiful outdoor setting, either overlooking the river or surrounded by the bush.

Today has been left free to unwind or discover more of Gal Oya’s natural surroundings.

Optional experiences this morning include a guided visit to the lodge’s working farm, where we learn about sustainable growing practices and the ingredients used in the kitchen, or a nature walk towards Kiri Oruwa Lake, looking for birds, butterflies and other wildlife along the way.

This afternoon, you can join an optional boat safari on Senanayake Samudraya, the vast reservoir bordering Gal Oya National Park. Cruising between forested shores and small islands, you can look for elephants gathering at the water’s edge and, with luck, swimming between islands. Crocodiles, deer and an abundance of birdlife may also be seen.

Tonight we enjoy our second evening in the wilderness.

Accommodation: Wild Glamping Gal Oya (or similar)

Today we discover a side of Sri Lanka rarely experienced by visitors, travelling through rural communities towards Kandy.

Our first stop is Mapakada, where we meet a traditional blacksmith and observe techniques passed down through generations. We then continue to Hasalaka for a scenic walk through lush countryside towards the beautiful Rathna Ella waterfall, surrounded by forest.

A highlight of the day is a traditional village lunch, prepared using fresh local ingredients. Depending on weather conditions, we may enjoy our meal near the waterfall or visit a local village for a cooking demonstration, discovering the flavours and techniques of rural Sri Lankan cuisine.

We also meet a local potter at his family workshop and have an opportunity to try our hand at shaping clay. This personal encounter provides a wonderful insight into the skill, patience and craftsmanship involved in traditional pottery, while supporting a local livelihood.

As we continue towards Kandy, we stop at a spectacular viewpoint overlooking the winding mountain roads and valleys below.

Accommodation: Earl’s Regency Hotel (or similar)

Kandy is Sri Lanka’s cultural heart and one of its most atmospheric cities, set among forested hills and overlooking a picturesque lake.

Today we visit the revered Temple of the Tooth, which houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha. As pilgrims arrive to make offerings, we gain an insight into the spiritual significance of this important Buddhist site.

After our visit, we head to a scenic viewpoint overlooking Kandy, with its impressive Buddha statue and sweeping views of the city. We also visit a gem museum to learn about Sri Lanka’s long tradition of gemstone mining and craftsmanship. Another highlight is the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, renowned for their towering tropical trees, colourful orchids and extensive collection of exotic plants.

This evening, there is the option to attend a traditional Kandyan cultural performance featuring music, dance and fire displays.

Accommodation: Earl’s Regency Hotel (or similar)

Leaving Kandy behind, we travel into Sri Lanka’s spectacular hill country, where winding roads reveal emerald-green tea plantations, mist-covered mountains and sweeping valleys.

En route, we visit a tea estate and heritage factory to discover the story behind world-famous Ceylon tea. Walking among the neatly planted tea bushes, we learn about traditional harvesting techniques and follow the fascinating journey from freshly picked leaf to finished tea.

Continuing to Hatton, we settle into our hotel, surrounded by the beautiful landscapes of the central highlands. The rest of the afternoon is free to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Accommodation: The Argyle Resort (or similar)

After breakfast, we continue through the scenic highlands to Nuwara Eliya, a charming hill station renowned for its cool climate.

Known as ‘Little England’, Nuwara Eliya was once a favourite retreat of British tea planters. Its landscaped gardens, historic buildings and traditional golf course offer a fascinating contrast to the tropical landscapes we have explored so far.

We have time to discover the town and soak up its distinctive atmosphere before settling into our hotel, a historic landmark renowned for its elegant architecture.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya (or similar)

Starting early with a packed breakfast, we make our way to Horton Plains National Park, a beautiful highland wilderness of rolling grasslands, cloud forest and dramatic escarpments.

Accompanied by our guide, we follow a scenic walking trail towards World’s End, where the plateau ends abruptly in a sheer drop of approximately 3,445ft (1,050m), offering spectacular views across the plains when the skies are clear. Our walk covers approximately 5.5mi (9km) and takes three to four hours.

Afterwards, we board a train at Ohiya for one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque rail journeys. Travelling through misty forests, tea-covered hillsides and mountain valleys, we experience the beauty of the highlands from a different perspective. We leave the train at Nanu Oya and return to Nuwara Eliya for a relaxing evening.

Accommodation: Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya (or similar)

Today we descend from the cool central highlands towards Sri Lanka’s wild southeastern plains. Our journey takes us through the mountain town of Ella, with a stop to admire the cascading Ravana Falls.

This afternoon, we venture into Yala National Park for a 4×4 safari. Renowned for its leopard population, Yala is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and an impressive variety of birdlife.

We explore the quieter Block 5 area, where dense vegetation and fewer safari vehicles create a more peaceful wildlife-viewing experience. With our experienced safari guide, we search for the park’s remarkable animals, never knowing what might appear around the next bend.

After our safari, we continue to our hotel for the evening.

Accommodation: DoubleTree by Hilton Weerawila (or similar)

We leave the wilderness behind today and journey towards Sri Lanka’s southern coastline.

Along the way, we stop to visit the Elephant Transit Home near Udawalawe National Park, an important conservation initiative caring for orphaned elephants. We learn about the rehabilitation programme and its efforts to prepare these animals for a return to the wild, with the opportunity to observe them during a scheduled feeding session.

Continuing towards Galle, the scenery changes once again as tropical greenery gives way to palm-fringed beaches and the sparkling Indian Ocean.

We arrive at our coastal hotel with time to relax by the pool, enjoy the sea views and unwind after our adventures across the island.

Accommodation: Jetwing Lighthouse (or similar)

Today we explore the historic coastal city of Galle, where centuries of maritime trade have created a fascinating blend of Sri Lankan and European influences.

We visit the Martin Wickramasinghe Folk Museum in Koggala en route. Dedicated to one of Sri Lanka’s most celebrated writers, the museum occupies a traditional southern Sri Lankan homestead surrounded by tropical gardens. The collection provides an insight into rural life, displaying household objects, agricultural tools and cultural artefacts from across the region.

In Galle, we explore the historic fort, a Unesco World Heritage Site, wandering through atmospheric streets lined with centuries-old buildings, churches and quiet courtyards. We also stroll along the old ramparts, enjoying sweeping views across the Indian Ocean and discovering the maritime history of this once-important trading port.

There are several optional activities to choose from today. Those keen to discover Sri Lanka’s marine wildlife may choose a whale-watching excursion on a private boat from Mirissa, subject to seasonal conditions. Alternatively, you could experience a traditional outdoor well bath at Thalpe Walawwa or take a boat trip through the mangrove-lined waterways of the Madu River, looking for colourful birdlife and water monitors.

We return to our coastal hotel for our final evening in Sri Lanka.

Accommodation: Jetwing Lighthouse (or similar)

Our Sri Lankan adventure comes to an end after breakfast. From the ancient fortress of Sigiriya and the wild landscapes of Gal Oya to the tea-covered highlands and beautiful southern coast, we leave with wonderful memories of this remarkable island.

If you aren’t ready for the adventure to end, speak to your sales representative about a post-trip adventure relaxing on the golden sands of Sri Lanka.