Classic Sri Lanka
Suggested Itinerary
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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
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 head out on a guided walk which will show you some of the city’s architecture, there are many colonial buildings such as the clock tower and Dutch Hospital as well as mosques and temples. Take a stroll around the busy Pettah Market to see the various traders.
Day 2 Colombo - Yapahuwa - Anuradhapura: Ancient Ruins
Day 2 Colombo - Yapahuwa - Anuradhapura: Ancient Ruins
Head inland, stopping first at stop at the magnificent Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, a 100m high rocky outcrop home to the ruins of a 3rd century BCE monastery and stupa, climb to the top before exploring more recent religious buildings around the base. Continue on to Anuradhapura, site of the country's first capital and one of the greatest monastic centres of the ancient world. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site which lay at the heart of Theravada Buddhism for centuries, wander amongst the stupas, monasteries and water tanks and pay a visit to the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi Tree. You'll also visit the Isurumiya Temple, dating form the 3rd century BC and home to a number of carvings.
Day 3 Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya: Buddhist & Royal History
Day 3 Anuradhapura - Mihintale - Polonnaruwa - Sigiriya: Buddhist & Royal History
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 your hotel in Sigiriya. Early this evening for sunset, you may like to climb Pidurangala Rock, this 200m high rocky outcrop gives views across to Sigiriya.
Day 4 Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park: Rock ruins & Jeep Safari
Day 4 Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park: Rock ruins & Jeep Safari
Head early to the unique Rock Fortress, or 'castle in the sky' as it is sometimes known at Sigiriya. This massive monolith of red stone rises 600ft above ground and is home to the remains of the 5th century fortress of King Kasyapa. 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. Halfway up, accessible by a spiral staircase and tucked beneath a sheltering overhang of rock, are the famous frescoes - the Sigiriya Damsels, continue the climb for the views of the surrounding countryside and to visit the archaeological site. From here head to one of the nearby villages and with a local guide, you will also enjoy lunch in one of the houses. This afternoon go on a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, renowned for its large herds of elephants, large reservoir and wetlands.
Day 5 Sigiriya - Dambulla - Kandy: Cave Frescoes & Evening Temple Puja
Day 5 Sigiriya - Dambulla - Kandy: Cave Frescoes & Evening Temple Puja
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, stop off at a spice garden and batik factory in Matale to learn about the different spices that have been grown for centuries in Sri Lanka. Your 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. This afternoon 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. In the evening head to the revered Temple of the Tooth for the evening puja ceremony.
Day 6 Kandy - Nuwara Eliya: Tea Country Train
Day 6 Kandy - Nuwara Eliya: Tea Country Train
There is the option for an early start to see the beautiful orchid collection at the Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya before heading for the train to Nanu Oya, one of the best train journeys in Sri Lanka, the track takes you through beautiful hills with tea plantations and forests. On arrival you will head to the colonial hill station of Nuwarya Eliya at the foot of Pidurutalala, Sri Lanka’s highest mountain. This afternoon is free to stroll around the quaint town, built with the British countryside in mind and home to neat lawns, Anglican churches and beautiful parks.
Day 7 Horton Plains: World's End
Day 7 Horton Plains: World's End
Today head 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. There are various trails to take including the climb to the peak of Mt Kirigalpotta 2395m, or to World’s End where the plateau comes to a sudden end and drops 880m giving spectacular views out of the lowlands below. Return to Nuwara Eliya visiting a tea plantation en route.
Day 8 Nuwara Eliya - Yala National Park: Through the Hills to Yala
Day 8 Nuwara Eliya - Yala National Park: Through the Hills to Yala
Leaving the hill country behind head east, towards the coast and Yala National Park, stopping off to enjoy the majestic sights of the Ravava Falls and the Ella Gap. 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 have time for a jeep safari in the late afternoon. Yala has one of the highest density of leopards in Asia but is also home to various ecosystems including forests, grasslands, beaches and wetlands as well as an abundance of birdlife, elephants, crocodiles, monkeys and sloth bears.
Day 9 Yala National Park: Jeep Safaris
Day 9 Yala National Park: Jeep Safaris
Another day in the park with morning and afternoon jeep safaris provide opportunities to look for more wildlife, perhaps you might spot wild buffalo, pangolins, jackals or sambar deer as well as keeping an eye out for the rich diversity of birdlife that includes lesser flamingos, paradise flycatchers and crested hawk eagles.
Day 10 Yala National Park - Galle: Along the Coast
Day 10 Yala National Park - Galle: Along the Coast
The drive to Galle, on Sri Lanka's beautiful south-western coast, takes you first by way of the extraordinary Wewurukannala Vihara Buddhist Temple, home to the country's largest statue. Make another stop at the beach town of Weligama to see the famous stilt fisherman at work. Continuing on to Galle, home to a 17th century Dutch Fort, whose extensive fortifications present us with the largest European fortress left in Asia.
Day 11 Galle: Inside the Fort
Day 11 Galle: Inside the Fort
After a leisurely morning head to Galle in the afternoon to enjoy a tour of the fort, surrounded by ramparts it is a city within a city with a lighthouse, mosques, churches, restaurants, banks and hotels all set on cobblestone roads. Visit the various different buildings and streets before a sunset walk along the ramparts.
Day 12 Galle: At Leisure
Day 12 Galle: At Leisure
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, along the way stop off to visit Lunuganga, Geoffrey Bawa’s country estate. 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 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.
Cinnamon Grand, Colombo
Lying in the centre of Colombo's commercial and entertainment district, the five star Grand Hotel is an elegant haven in the heart of the capital. With an extensive choice of over 500 rooms and suites, all equipped with the most modern of amenities, and five dining options, ranging from Chinese to Italian and South Indian cuisines, you are spoilt for choice. Amongst the 10 acres of landscaped, close to the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, you will find a large outdoor pool, well-equipped gym, tennis court and a fabulous Angsana Spa.
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.
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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WILD MILES
ACCOMMODATION
Wild Miles Club
When you book a trip with Wild Frontiers you are awarded points, which are based on the return distance from London to the arrival city of your trip. Points are awarded for all our holidays, including both our escorted group tours and tailor-made trips. When you accrue points, you will qualify for the following discounts on all future bookings:
Blue | More than 10,000 points | 2.5% discount |
Bronze | More than 30,000 points | 5% discount |
Silver | More than 45,000 points | 7.5% discount |
Gold | More than 60,000 points | 10% discount |
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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