- Pricing is indicative and is not valid over public or religious holiday periods
- Christmas Eve and New Year supplements apply to stays falling on 24 December and 31 December. Applicable supplements will be advised at the time of booking.
- If your stay in Kandy coincides with the Kandy Pageant, a compulsory supplement will apply for stays between 25 July and 3 August. The applicable supplement will be advised at the time of booking.
Private Holiday
12 days ex Colombo
Departs: Daily
12 days ex Colombo
Departs: Daily
Notes:
- Optional excursions and additional services can be arranged at an additional cost
- Wildlife excursions are undertaken at the client's own risk
- Safari vehicles are basic, non-air-conditioned vehicles and carry basic insurance cover, which is not comparable to the comprehensive insurance provided for the vehicles used during the main tour.
Negombo (1) | Sigiriya (2) | Kandy (2) | Nuwara Eliya (1) | Tissamaharama (1) | Galle (3) | Colombo (1)
Explore the incredible richness of Sri Lanka – the island Marco Polo described as a “Pearl in the Indian Ocean” – its ancient kingdoms submerged into lush vegetation, its exceptional wildlife and its palm-fringed golden beaches front azure waters.
Start your discovery with the cultural centre of the island and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere reigning over this land of rich history and deep Buddhist tradition. Continue your journey to the beautiful Central Highlands and visit its capital Kandy, the island’s most vibrant and colourful city.
Embark on a scenic ride by train through the “Tea Country” and take in the sights of lavish tea plantations rolling upon hills, dotted by the colourful saris of the leaf picking women. After a safari in search of the elusive leopard at the Yala National Park, explore the colonial gem city of Galle, influenced by successive waves of traders from Portugal, Holland and Britain, before finishing your incredible journey in Colombo.
Travelling with your own private vehicle and English-speaking chauffeur guide, you'll have the flexibility to experience Sri Lanka at a relaxed pace, with time to discover, unwind and add optional experiences along the way.
Start your discovery with the cultural centre of the island and immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere reigning over this land of rich history and deep Buddhist tradition. Continue your journey to the beautiful Central Highlands and visit its capital Kandy, the island’s most vibrant and colourful city.
Embark on a scenic ride by train through the “Tea Country” and take in the sights of lavish tea plantations rolling upon hills, dotted by the colourful saris of the leaf picking women. After a safari in search of the elusive leopard at the Yala National Park, explore the colonial gem city of Galle, influenced by successive waves of traders from Portugal, Holland and Britain, before finishing your incredible journey in Colombo.
Travelling with your own private vehicle and English-speaking chauffeur guide, you'll have the flexibility to experience Sri Lanka at a relaxed pace, with time to discover, unwind and add optional experiences along the way.
Highlights:
- 24/7 service and full local backup throughout Sri Lanka
- Visit 5 UNESCO World Heritage Sites:
1. Sigiriya Rock Fortress
2. Ancient city of Polonnaruwa
3. Dambulla Cave Temple
4. Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy
5. The fortified port city of Galle - Kandyan cultural performance
- Scenic Pekoe Trail through Sri Lanka's tea country
- Traditional Ceylon tea factory visit
- Take a scenic train ride from Nanu Oya to Ella to admire the stunning hill scenery of Ceylon’s lush tea plantations
- Explore the Yala National Park on a safari searching for the elusive leopard
- Discover Sri Lanka’s scenic south coast fishing village of Weligama
- Traditional Sri Lankan cooking experience
- Colombo street food experience
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Colombo Airport – Negombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka. Upon arrival at Colombo International Airport, you will be met and assisted by our local operator then transferred by private vehicle to your accommodation in Negombo. After check-in, the remainder of the day is at leisure. Relax after your international journey or take some time to settle into the tropical surroundings before your Sri Lankan adventure begins.
Day 2: Negombo – Sigiriya (B)
After breakfast, embark on a scenic drive from Negombo to Sigiriya, passing through the lush and vibrant countryside of Sri Lanka. The journey offers glimpses of rural life, verdant rice paddies, coconut plantations, and charming villages nestled among rolling hills. On arrival in Sigiriya, check in to your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure amid the tranquil surroundings of the Cultural Triangle.
Day 3: Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya (B)
This morning, visit the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka's most iconic landmarks and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Rising dramatically above the surrounding plains, this extraordinary citadel was built by King Kashyapa between 477 and 495 AD as a royal palace and strategic stronghold. Ascend through the ancient water gardens and stone terraces to the famous Lion Rock entrance, continuing towards the summit where the remains of the royal palace and panoramic views reveal the extraordinary scale of this ancient kingdom.
Continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Discover its remarkably preserved archaeological treasures, including royal palaces, ceremonial buildings, temples and sacred Buddhist monuments.
Optional (supplement applies): Traditional Sri Lankan Lunch at Priyamali Gadara
For a taste of authentic Sri Lankan village cuisine, add a traditional lunch at Priyamali Gadara. Fresh local ingredients and time-honoured recipes are prepared in a charming rural setting, offering a wonderful insight into Sri Lanka's culinary traditions. Return to your hotel in Sigiriya for a relaxing evening.
Day 4: Sigiriya – Dambulla – Kandy (B)
Travel towards Kandy, with a fascinating visit to the renowned Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple. A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka's largest and best-preserved cave temple complex, Dambulla is built into a towering rock outcrop. Its sacred caves are adorned with beautiful Buddhist murals and an impressive collection of statues, including a magnificent reclining Buddha.
Continue through the scenic hill country to Kandy, Sri Lanka's last royal capital. Visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most sacred shrines and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The temple dates back to the 17th century and is renowned for its distinctive architecture and the treasured relic of the Buddha housed within.
This evening, witness the vibrant traditions of the hill country during a captivating Kandyan cultural performance, featuring traditional drumming, colourful costumes, graceful dancing and spectacular fire performances.
Day 5: Kandy (B)
Today is free to experience Kandy at your own pace. Browse the local markets, wander through the city or simply take time to appreciate the peaceful beauty of Sri Lanka's hill country.
Optional Experience (supplement applies): Pekoe Trail: Stage 2 – Galaha to Loolkandura | Approx. 5 hours
For those looking for an active experience, follow one of the most scenic sections of Sri Lanka's renowned Pekoe Trail. The route winds through emerald tea plantations, peaceful forests and traditional hill-country villages, with sweeping views across the mountains and valleys. The trail passes through Deltota Estate before continuing through pine forest and historic tea estate roads towards Loolkandura. The highlight is Loolkandura Estate, regarded as the birthplace of Sri Lanka's world-famous tea industry. Here you will see the original cottage of James Taylor, the Scottish planter who pioneered commercial tea cultivation in Ceylon. The trail concludes through beautiful tea gardens and montane forest, providing a memorable insight into the landscapes and heritage of Sri Lanka's tea country.
Day 6: Kandy – Nuwara Eliya (B)
Journey deeper into Sri Lanka's spectacular hill country towards Nuwara Eliya, travelling through rolling tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and mist-covered mountains.
Along the way, visit a traditional tea factory to discover the fascinating process behind Ceylon Tea, from the careful plucking of tea leaves through withering, rolling and grading.
Conclude your visit with a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea while taking in the surrounding tea plantations.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya – Ella Gap – Tissamaharama (B)
After breakfast, transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station and board one of Sri Lanka's most scenic train journeys to Ella. The route winds through the heart of the hill country, passing emerald tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, waterfalls and rural villages. Your main luggage will remain with the tour vehicle, which will drop you at the departure station and meet you on arrival in Ella.
Note: Train tickets are subject to availability at the time of booking.
On arrival in Ella, visit the spectacular Ella Gap, a dramatic natural viewpoint where the highlands descend almost 3,000 feet, with panoramic views stretching towards Sri Lanka's southern coastline on clear days. Continue to Tissamaharama, the gateway to Yala National Park.
Day 8: Yala National Park – Weligama – Galle (B)
Rise early for an exciting jeep safari through Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka's premier wildlife reserves and renowned for its leopard population. The park is also home to elephants, sloth bears, buffalo, spotted deer, crocodiles, wild boar and an extraordinary variety of birdlife. Travelling through grasslands, forests, lagoons and waterways, keep watch for the wildlife that makes this remarkable park its home.
Continue west along Sri Lanka's spectacular southern coastline towards Galle. Stop at Weligama to see the traditional stilt fishermen, an enduring symbol of the southern coast, before continuing to the historic city of Galle.
Day 9: Galle (B)
Discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort, one of Sri Lanka's most fascinating colonial treasures. Set beside the Indian Ocean, Galle Fort reflects centuries of Portuguese, Dutch and British influence. Wander through its atmospheric lanes and discover the impressive ramparts, colonial architecture and historic landmarks. Visit the iconic Galle Fort and Dutch Reformed Church, a remarkable reminder of the city's rich colonial past.
The afternoon is free to wander along the ancient ramparts, browse boutiques and galleries or relax amid the laid-back atmosphere of this beautiful coastal city.
Day 10: Galle (B)
This morning join a knowledgeable local guide for a walking tour through Galle Fort, uncovering the stories behind its historic ramparts, colonial architecture and hidden corners.
OR Alternatively, embark on a scenic cycling adventure through the tranquil Galle countryside, travelling past peaceful lagoons, mangrove forests, traditional villages, ancient temples, coconut mills, and vibrant green paddy fields. This family-friendly experience offers an authentic glimpse into rural Sri Lankan life, with bicycles suited to your size, a local guide, helmets, water, and refreshments provided. Comfortable sports shoes, a hat, sunscreen, and a camera are all you need to bring.
Optional Experience (supplement applies): Sonja's Cooking Class
Discover the secrets of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine during a hands-on cooking experience using fresh local ingredients. Following the class, sample the dishes you have prepared over lunch or dinner.
The experience also supports the Foundation of Goodness, a local charitable organisation working to empower rural communities across Sri Lanka.
Day 11: Galle – Colombo (B)
After breakfast, depart Galle and travel towards Colombo.
Optional Experience (supplement applies): Ambalangoda Mask Factory
En route, visit a traditional mask workshop in Ambalangoda, renowned for its centuries-old craftsmanship. Discover the artistry, folklore and traditions behind the colourful hand-carved masks that continue to play an important role in Sri Lanka's performing arts.
Continue to Colombo for a city sightseeing tour combining colonial heritage, modern influences and vibrant local life. Drive through the commercial districts and elegant Cinnamon Gardens before visiting Seema Malaka Temple, a tranquil Buddhist temple set on Beira Lake. Built on three interconnected platforms extending over the lake, the temple is surrounded by Buddha statues and offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of the bustling city. View nearby Gangaramaya Temple, one of Colombo's most important Buddhist temples, renowned for its eclectic collection of religious artefacts and striking architecture.
Continue to the historic Fort district, once the centre of British administration, before heading to Pettah and Sea Street, known for its lively markets, goldsmiths and colourful bazaars. See the intricate stone carvings of a Hindu temple and visit the Dutch Church of Wolvendaal, dating from 1749. If time permits, continue to Independence Square, an important symbol of Sri Lanka's journey to independence.
Optional Experience (supplement applies): Mark Forbes Street Food Experience
Discover Colombo through its food and fascinating multicultural heritage on an Urban Trail Foodie Tour. Beginning at the historic Dutch Hospital Shopping Precinct in Fort, the experience reveals how centuries of trade, migration and colonial influence have shaped Sri Lankan cuisine.
Sample authentic local flavours and discover the influence of Indian, Malay, Dutch and Portuguese traditions. Along the way, learn about local ingredients, traditional recipes and the communities that have helped shape Colombo's culinary identity.
Day 12: Colombo (B)
After breakfast, check out and transfer north towards Colombo Airport. Depart with wonderful memories of ancient kingdoms, sacred temples, spectacular landscapes, wildlife encounters, fascinating cultural traditions and the warm hospitality of Sri Lanka.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 back up throughout Sri Lanka
- 11 nights' accommodation
- Breakfasts daily
- Transported by private air-conditioned vehicle
- English speaking driver/guide
- Entrance fees to Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Entrance to Dambulla Cave Temple
- Entrance to Polonnaruwa
- Entrance to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, Kandy
- Kandyan cultural performance
- Entrance to Yala National Park
- One half-day jeep safari in Yala National Park
- Stilt fishing experience in Weligama
- Galle Museum
- Gangaramaya & Seema Malaka Temples
- Colombo Museum
- Train tickets from Nanu Oya to Ella, subject to availability
- Sri Lanka Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Meals other than specified
- Drinks during meals
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
Negombo
First Class: Jetwing Sea
Deluxe Class: Jetwing Beach
Sigiriya
First Class: Aliya Resort
Deluxe Class: Heritance Kandalama
Kandy
First Class: Cinamon Citadel
Deluxe Class: Mount Batten
Nuwara Eliya
First Class: Heritance Tea Factory
Deluxe Class: Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Tissamaharama (Tissa)
First Class: Jetwing Yala
Deluxe Class: DoubleTree by Hilton
Galle
First Class: Radisson Blu
Deluxe Class: Jetwing Lighthouse
Colombo
First Class: Galle Face
Deluxe Class: Shangri-La Colombo
Dress Code
Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage is deeply influenced by Buddhism, Hinduism, and its colonial past. When visiting temples, it’s important to dress modestly — covering shoulders and knees — and to remove shoes and hats before entering sacred areas.
Holiday Periods & Cultural Observances in Sri Lanka
Please note: Rates are not valid during public or religious holidays. Availability of services may be limited during these periods. When planning your visit to Sri Lanka, it’s important to be aware of local holidays and cultural practices that may affect travel plans, business hours, and services.
• Dry Days: Sri Lanka observes several religious holidays throughout the year, including Poya Days (full moon days), which are recognized as Public, Bank, and Mercantile Holidays. These are referred to as “dry days”, during which the sale of alcoholic beverages is prohibited in shops, hotels, and restaurants and wine stores, taverns, and bars are closed.
• Poya Days: Occur monthly on the full moon. Many shops and businesses close, and public services may be limited.
• Hindu & Buddhist Festivals: Dates are determined by local astronomical observations, making them difficult to predict in advance. These festivals may affect local transport, business hours, and access to certain sites.
• Muslim Festivals: Dates are based on local moon sightings and may vary. During Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night. While business hours may be affected, Sri Lanka’s predominantly non-Muslim population means disruptions for travellers are generally minimal.
Sightseeing
All sightseeing normally requires a moderate amount of walking around historical / cultural sites. A good level of fitness will ensure you get a maximum enjoyment from your visit.
Social Conventions
Sri Lanka’s genuine hospitality to tourists is renowned. Take care to avoid religious offence, however. Respect the Buddhist faith: do not touch a monk, do not pose for photographs on religious statues, be mindful not to turn your back on Buddha statues when taking photos and avoid touching religious artifacts. Always seek permission before photographing individuals, especially monks, as a gesture of respect.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.
