Classic Sri Lanka
Suggested Itinerary
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13 Days From A$5,672
Overview
With a heritage that can be traced back over three and a half millennia, Sri Lanka is a land filled with magic and mystery. Steeped in the myths and legends of the Ramayana, it has been home to the Sinhalese since the late 6th century BC. Colonised by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British, it was once described as the finest island in the world. This classic adventure takes in many of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural highlights including the old capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa,...
With a heritage that can be traced back over three and a half millennia, Sri Lanka is a land filled with magic and mystery. Steeped in the myths and legends of the Ramayana, it has been home to the Sinhalese since the late 6th century BC. Colonised by the Portuguese, the Dutch and the British, it was once described as the finest island in the world. This classic adventure takes in many of Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural highlights including the old capitals of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the spectacular rock fortress of Sigiriya and the Buddhist treasures of Kandy and Dambulla. Staying in eco lodges and exclusive beach properties you’ll explore some of the country’s most breath-taking natural highlights including the Horton Plains, Uda Walawe and Yala National Parks. Continuing on to Sri Lanka’s beautiful south east coast you’ll then get an opportunity to explore the splendour of Galle and enjoy some time relaxing besides the waters of the Indian Ocean in a charming boutique hotel, before returning to Colombo for the flight home.
TRIP HIGHLIGHTS
- Discover an abundance of UNESCO Sites, from medieval capitals to rock fortresses and ancient caves
- Go in search of Sri Lanka’s stunning wildlife with game drives in Minneriya, Uda Walawe and Yala National Parks
- Explore the lush hills of Nuwara Eliya and the Horton Plains and visit a local tea plantation
- Savour Sri Lanka’s culinary delights as you explore Kandy’s backstreets and learn about local initiatives
- Experience the charm and beauty of Galle with its stunning architecture, boutique shopping and vast tropical beaches
- Experience the evening puja ceremony at the most sacred temple in the country
Suggested Itinerary
This is a suggested itinerary. Our experts have all travelled widely in the region and will be happy to tailor any of our itineraries to suit your tastes, or build a trip from scratch.
DAY 1: ARRIVE COLOMBO
DAY 1: ARRIVE COLOMBO
Your journey begins in Colombo, Sri Lanka's largest city and its de facto capital. Strategically located along the east-west trade routes, Colombo was a major trading port 2,000 years ago, attracting merchants from as far away as China, Persia and Rome. Today it is still home to one of the country's largest and busiest ports and is one of Sri Lanka's most culturally diverse cities. This afternoon you will have some free time to relax after the flight and enjoy the city at your own pace. Why not visit the colourful Pettah Market, or enjoy a walking tour of the stunning historic district, or perhaps just enjoy sundowners at the famous Galle Face Hotel, offering stunning sunset views of Colombo.
DAY 2: COLOMBO - YAPAHUWA ROCK FORTRESS - ANURADHAPURA
DAY 2: COLOMBO - YAPAHUWA ROCK FORTRESS - ANURADHAPURA
Leaving Colombo behind this morning we head north, driving towards Anuradhapura, site of the country's first capital and one of the greatest monastic centres of the ancient world. Along the way stop at the magnificent Yapahuwa Rock Fortress. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Anuradhapura lay at the heart of Theravada Buddhism for centuries and today you'll pay a visit to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree, believed to have been grown from a cutting from the original Bodhi tree under which the Gautama Buddha achieved enlightenment. You'll also visit the Isurumiya Temple, the first to be built on the island.
DAY 3: ANURADHAPURA - MIHINTALE - POLONNARUWA - SIGIRIYA
DAY 3: ANURADHAPURA - MIHINTALE - POLONNARUWA - SIGIRIYA
This morning you'll visit the nearby mountain peak of Mihintale, said to be the site where Buddhism was first introduced to the island. The site is home to a number of monuments and abandoned temples and remains to this day one of the country's most important pilgrimage sites. Continuing on to Polonnaruwa from here, you'll then pay a visit to Sri Lanka's medieval capital, another of the country's World Heritage Sites, where you will visit its impressive reclining Buddha and the spectacular ruins of its Royal Palace, before continuing to our hotel in Sigiriya.
DAY 4: SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS & MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 4: SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS & MINNERIYA NATIONAL PARK
The unique Rock Fortress, or 'castle in the sky' as it is sometimes known at Sigiriya, is a massive monolith of red stone that rises 600ft above ground. Its common name - Lion Rock - is derived from the way the entrance to the path that ascends the mountain is reached between the paws of a lion. The ruins of this 5th century fortress completely dominate the landscape and are one of Sri Lanka's major attractions. Spend some time with your guide exploring this splendid site, as you climb to the top where you can enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding countryside, as well as the remains of what is left of the palace of King Kasyapa. Halfway up, accessible by a spiral staircase and tucked beneath a sheltering overhang of rock, are the famous frescoes - the Sigiriya Damsels. This afternoon go on a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, renowned for its large herds of elephants.
DAY 5: SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - KANDY
DAY 5: SIGIRIYA - DAMBULLA - KANDY
The journey to Kandy today takes you by way of the UNESCO caves at Dambulla, where you'll find a remarkable collection of temples and statues that date back to the 1st century BC. Filled with images of the Buddha and sculptures of the Hindu gods, the caves have become an important pilgrimage site for countless thousands of worshippers. Continuing into the mountains that lie to the north-east of Colombo, our day's journey then ends in Kandy, the last capital of the ancient Sri Lankan kings and one of the country’s cultural and spiritual gems. On arrival enjoy a culinary walk, exploring local markets and visiting Hela Bojun Hala, a spacious open-air food court set up with the aim of not only providing delicious Sri Lankan food at subsidised prices, but also providing employment opportunities for local women.
DAY 6: KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA
DAY 6: KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA
Home to the revered Temple of the Tooth, Kandy still retains a sense of its old-world charm and you'll enjoy a guided tour of some of its highlights this morning, including the beautiful orchid collection at the Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya. Later we then drive on to Nuwara Eliya, set high up in the lush hills of Sri Lanka's Central Province. After paying a visit to some of the tea plantations that blanket this lovely setting, you'll spend this evening in the hill country.
DAY 7: NUWARA ELIYA & HORTON PLAINS
DAY 7: NUWARA ELIYA & HORTON PLAINS
A cool sanctuary for the civil servants and planters of the British Empire, Nuwara Eliya was founded in the middle years of the 19th century as a hill country retreat. A tour of the town this morning is followed by a visit to the misty grasslands of the Horton Plains, Sri Lanka's highest and most isolated plateau. Located some 2,000 metres above sea level, it provides an ideal spot for some captivating nature walks, with a wealth of birds and animals calling this grassland home.
DAY 8: NUWARA ELIYA - UDA WALAWE NATIONAL PARK - YALA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 8: NUWARA ELIYA - UDA WALAWE NATIONAL PARK - YALA NATIONAL PARK
Leaving the hill country behind we head east, towards the wild landscapes of Ella and the Uda Walawe National Park. Stopping off to enjoy the majestic sights of the Ravava Falls and the Ella Gap, you'll then take a jeep safari through the rich vistas of the Uda Walawe National Park. Covering some 30,000 hectares of scrub, teak plantations and rainforest, the park is home to the largest concentrations of elephants in the country, as well as sloth bears, jackals, leopards and a vast array of birds. If time permits also visit Elephant Transit Home. Continuing on to Yala, you'll spend this evening in the heart of the Sri Lankan interior.
DAY 9: YALA NATIONAL PARK
DAY 9: YALA NATIONAL PARK
This morning we head for Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's premier wildlife destinations. Encompassing a vast area of scrub jungle, brackish lagoons and spectacular rock monoliths, the park can boast one of the largest populations of leopards in the world. Morning and afternoon jeep safaris provide opportunities to look for elephant, wild buffalo, pangolins and crocs, as well as a rich diversity of birdlife that includes lesser flamingos, paradise flycatchers and crested hawk eagles.
DAY 10: YALA NATIONAL PARK - GALLE
DAY 10: YALA NATIONAL PARK - GALLE
The drive to Galle, on Sri Lanka's beautiful southwestern coast, takes us first by way of the extraordinary Wewurukannala Vihara Buddhist Temple, home to the country's largest statue. Continuing on to Galle, you then pay a visit to the 17th century Dutch Fort, whose extensive fortifications present us with the largest European fortress left in Asia. Also enjoy a wander through its meandering streets home to ageing colonial buildings.
DAY 11: GALLE
DAY 11: GALLE
You will be staying at the charming boutique Lighthouse Hotel during your time in Galle. Located just outside the city on the beach front, it provides the perfect base from which to enjoy a range of activities, from relaxing by the beach or the pool, to discovering the culinary delights of some of Galle's excellent restaurants, not to mention some last-minute shopping in their beautiful designer boutiques.
DAY 12: GALLE
DAY 12: GALLE
Spend the day at leisure at this luxurious boutique hotel. If you would like to explore more of Galle Fort we can provide an array of recommendations so please discuss with your guide.
DAY 13: GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
DAY 13: GALLE - DEPART COLOMBO
Driving back along the coast to Colombo this morning, you will arrive back at the city's international airport in time to catch your return flight home.
SUGGESTED ACCOMMODATION
Sigiriya Village, Sigiriya
Offering splendid views of the Sigiriya rock fortress, Sigiriya Village is ideally located in the heartland of the Cultural Triangle, which is rich in historical sites, archaeological treasures, primary works of art and scenic beauty. This exclusive jungle retreat boasts elegantly designed earth-toned cottages, well decorated with rustic village life themes. The management prides itself in its green initiatives and environmentally friendly projects are continually being introduced. The open-air restaurant serves both international and traditional Sri Lankan cuisine in a colourful and warm atmosphere. The swimming pool is located in a private courtyard with breath-taking views of the rock and wilderness. There is also an Ayurvedic health centre specially designed to offer guests a taste of indigenous herbal health care.
Cinnamon Citadel, Kandy
Nestled between the misty hills and meandering Mahaweli River is the four star Cinnamon Citadel retreat. Not far from Kandy, escape the bustling hill capital that was the last domain of the Sinhala Kings. The modern amenities paired with traditional Kandyan art make you feel as if you are still in the realm of the kings. Each room has panoramic views, air-conditioning and en suite bathrooms. The outdoor pool overlooks the river providing peace and serenity. Go up to the balcony terrace for even better views of the river and the surrounding lush forest. There is a restaurant serving a la carte food and a bar and games area. The hotel offers nature walks and boat rides in search of the forests natural inhabitants.
Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle
Designed by world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa, Jetwing Lighthouse takes its influences from the Dutch colonial period. The hotel has 80 rooms and suites overlooking the azure ocean or beautiful gardens, using modern amenities, local materials and eco-friendly fabrics. The three themes suites are inspired by ancient travelers and explorers who discovered Sri Lanka on their journeys. With a choice of two pools and an array of excellent dining options, this is the perfect retreat for relaxing at the end of a journey in Sri Lanka. The hotel also offers a resident naturalist, a fully equipped gym, a pampering spa and the delightful opportunity to experience high tea with a sea view.
Jetwing Yala, Yala National Park
Spread across 38 acres of land leading out onto gorgeous beaches, Jetwing Yala is located on the borders of Yala National Park. The 80 rooms offer a private balconies or terraces overlooking the Indian Ocean or surrounding wilderness and are elegantly designed using modern, minimalist interiors. Enjoy the relaxing outdoor pool and spa between safaris, as well as the delicious meals on offer at the multiple restaurants and bars.
Ramada, Colombo
Centrally located near Galle Face beach, the Ramada in Colombo is a lovely mid-range option offering modern comfort. The well-appointed airy rooms come with en suite bathroom, and the two on site restaurants both offer delicious Sri lankan and western cuisine. The outdoor pool is the perfect spot to unwind with a sundowner after a long day exploring.
The Lake Forest Hotel, Anuradhapura
The Lake Forest Hotel, as its name suggests, is situated in tranquil countryside, overlooking a beautiful lake and forest. After exploring the cultural highlights of Anuradhapura, this hotel offers a welcome retreat. The spacious bright rooms overlook the lake and forest and some come with balconies. The hotel features all modern amenities and has a small pool, offering delicious local and international cuisine in their restaurant.
Amaya Langdale, Nuwara Eliya
Located in the stunning hills and surrounded by tea plantations, this heritage bungalow is the perfect choice. Tastefully decorated with well-appointed rooms, the large windows overlook the tea gardens. The luxury property offers exceptional service, a carefully-curated menu in the main restaurant and a well-stocked bar. For those wishing to relax, there is a lovely heated pool with extensive views of the lush hills and a charming spa.
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Hotel Rating
Accommodation listed here is intended as a guide only, to give you a taste of what we can do. Our experts can tailor any aspect of this itinerary and accommodation to suit your budget and tastes.
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This itinerary is aimed to give you an idea of what we can offer. The price shown above is per person, based on two people travelling outside of peak periods. As this itinerary is only a suggestion and can be tailor-made to suit your interests and budget, your final price may differ.
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Shalmali is our Indian Subcontinent expert, who has travelled extensively in the region.
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