Pricing is indicative and is not valid over public or religious holiday periods.
Private Holiday
11 days ex Colombo
11 days ex Colombo
Departs Daily
Negombo (1) | Sigiriya (2) | Kandy (2) | Numara Eliya: (2) | Udawalawe (1) | Galle (1) | Colombo (1)
This immersive 11-day private itinerary blends culture, nature, and adventure, offering a rich tapestry of experiences that showcase the country’s vibrant spirit and scenic beauty. From climbing the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress to witnessing wild elephants roam freely in Minneriya National Park, each day brings a new discovery. You’ll explore the cultural heart of Kandy, ride one of the world’s most scenic trains to Nuwara Eliya, and stroll through the colonial charm of Galle Fort. Along the way, experience hands-on cooking classes, traditional dance performances, and ethical wildlife encounters at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Whether sipping tea in misty highlands or uncovering the secrets of sacred relics, this curated adventure promises memories to last a lifetime. Sri Lanka awaits—vibrant, soulful, and ready to be explored.
Highlights:
- Get up close to elephants in the most ethical way possible in Sri Lanka at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Climb the 5th-century UNESCO World Heritage citadel, with its frescoes, mirror wall, and panoramic views
- Minneriya National Park – Witness one of the world’s largest gatherings of wild elephants at the reservoir grasslands
- Kandy & Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – Explore Sri Lanka’s cultural heart, including the revered temple, lively markets, and a traditional dance show
- Scenic Train Journey to Nuwara Eliya – Ride through mist-covered tea plantations and rolling highlands, considered one of the world’s most beautiful train trips
- Galle Fort – Stroll the cobbled streets of this Dutch-built coastal fortress, blending colonial charm with vibrant local life
- 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 checking in, the remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Negombo.
Day 2: Negombo – Sigiriya (B)
After breakfast at your hotel, begin your day with a hands-on cooking class in Negombo. Over the course of approximately four hours, delve into the rich culinary traditions of Sri Lanka. Learn to prepare authentic dishes using local spices and techniques and savour the vibrant flavours that define this island’s cuisine.
Following your culinary experience, travel by private air-conditioned vehicle to Sigiriya (approx. 3.5 hours), home to the legendary 5th-century rock citadel of King Kasyapa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sigiriya is a masterpiece of ancient engineering and artistry. Surrounded by moats, gardens, and ramparts, the towering Lion Rock is adorned with frescoes reminiscent of India’s Ajanta cave paintings. Be sure to walk along the famed ‘mirror wall,’ inscribed with centuries-old graffiti, and visit the onsite museum for fascinating insights into the fortress’s history and construction.
Day 3: Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa – Minneriya – Sigiriya (B)
This morning transfer via private vehicle to explore the ancient city sights of Polonnaruwa. Rising with the decline of Anuradhapura, the city of Polonnaruwa was the royal capital and the crown jewel of King Parakramabahu I. The stunning ruins here are in remarkable condition with many intricate carvings and beautiful statues having lasted centuries. The ancient Royal Palace is a hugely impressive building – especially considering that archaeologists claim it was once seven floors high.
Later, travel to the Minneriya National Park. Spreading over 8800 hectares, Minneriya is famous as a sanctuary for elephants, but is also home to herds of deer and ample birdlife. The elephants, however, are the main attraction and gather here in some of the largest numbers found anywhere in the world. Park your jeep on the bank of the reservoir, switch off its engine and watch carefully as herds of elephants - one by one - roll on to the grass-covered banks, to feed on tender shoots. Transfer back to your hotel in Sigiriya for overnight.
Day 4: Sigiriya – Dambulla - Matale – Kandy (B)
After breakfast spend the morning exploring Dambulla Cave Temple, inhabited since prehistory and treasured as a religious centre since the 1st century B.C. The surrounding area contains over 80 caves, with the major attractions located in five caves which make up the temple proper. With walls that shelter over 150 statues of Lord Buddha, and which are covered in exquisite cave paintings, this temple is an experience you will never forget.
Later, transfer in your private vehicle from Dambulla to Matale en route to Kandy. An agricultural zone in the Central Province, Matale is famous around the world for its tea, rubber, vegetables, and spices. Stop by a spice garden into which you will be most welcome to learn about the therapeutic values of spices over a refreshing cup of herbal tea. Transfer from Matale to Kandy. Overnight in Kandy.
Day 5: Kandy – Peradeniya – Kandy (B)
After breakfast, depart from Kandy for a short drive to Peradeniya to explore the renowned Royal Botanical Gardens. Originally established as a pleasure garden by King Wickramabahu III in 1371 and later expanded under British rule, these lush gardens span 147 acres and showcase over 4,000 plant species. Wander through beautifully landscaped grounds featuring exotic orchids, aromatic spices, medicinal plants, and rare flora from around the globe. A café near the entrance offers a perfect spot to pause and refresh.
Return to Kandy to delve into the city’s rich heritage. Once the final royal capital before British colonisation in 1815, Kandy is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, nestled beside the tranquil lake and surrounded by misty hills. Spend some time shopping at the vibrant Kandy City Centre, explore local crafts, gems, and the bustling market. In the evening, take in a colourful cultural performance before returning to your hotel for the night.
Day 6: Kandy – Nanu Oya Railway Station – Nuwara Eliya (B)
After breakfast, transfer from Kandy to the railway station to board the iconic scenic train to Nanu Oya. Experience the thrill of the scenic train ride through lush tea plantations, misty mountains, and charming villages – an unforgettable highlight for many travellers in Sri Lanka.
Upon arrival at Nanu Oya, meet with your private driver and continue by road to nearby Nuwara Eliya, often referred to a “Little England” for its cool climate and colonial charm. Following check in, the remainder of the day at leisure. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya – Tea Plantation – Nuwara Eliya (B)
Spend the day exploring nearby tea plantations and the sights Nuwara Eliya.
“Tea” and “Tourism” are words which are indelibly linked to Sri Lanka. You will experience this first-hand today as you journey into the cool, mist-covered hills and visit a tea factory, processing the renowned Ceylon Tea - bathe in the aroma and observe a rich tradition kept alive to this day. And of course, you will have the chance to end your tour in style over a perfectly blended cup of pure Ceylon Tea.
Transfer from Tea Plantation to Nuwara Eliya. Misty, steep roads twisting through lush green blankets of tea bushes in a cool climate remind visitors that they are nearing the renowned British colonial retreat, Nuwara Eliya. Still retaining its English countryside atmosphere, the “City of Light” - once governed by English & Scottish planters - is studded with colonial bungalows, hedgerows and one of the finest 18-hole golf courses in the world. A hike through the green grass and red-brick walls offers the chance of breathtaking views of the charming countryside. Drive through green valleys of the hill country pierced by endless waterfalls and dotted by tea pluckers dressed in bright-coloured saris. Or take an option to rent a bike for a gentle ride along the banks of Lake Gregory. Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 8: Nuwara Eliya – Udawalawe (B)
Following breakfast at the hotel transfer in your private vehicle from Nuwara Eliya to Udawalawe (approx. four hours) and visit Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Check in to accommodations upon completion and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Travel Kindly is an animal welfare project initiated by our Sri Lankan partners with aims of promoting sustainability best practice in wildlife experiences. Through Travel Kindly, you will get the opportunity to help look after an orphaned baby elephant at the Elephant Transit Home. After spending time with these magnificent creatures, you will be transferred to your accommodation, and the remainder of the day is at leisure. Overnight in Udawalawe.
Day 09: Udawalewale – Galle / Ahungalla (B)
After breakfast at the hotel visit Udawalawe National Park for an early morning game drive. Udawalawe is a true sanctuary for the Asian elephant. Blessed with relatively large herds of elephants, the national park proves to be one of the best places one could observe them in their natural habitat. After hopping into a safari jeep, you are likely to view your first herd of giants within only a few hundred meters of driving into the park. Turn on your radar into other species - such as potted deer, sambur, barking deer, water buffalo and jackal - found within the park.
After your morning game drive, continue your journey south to Galle, where an excursion awaits. Walk the Dutch-influenced streets of Galle, the southern capital, listening to the creaks of wooden saloon doors and observe how European architecture mingles with South Asian traditions. Its original ramparts and bastions preserved up to date showcase evidence of a heritage preserved for more than 350 years. Walk clockwise within the fort to observe the 'old gate' carrying the British coat of arms. Flanking the old gate is the Zwart bastion - the oldest of all - and the lighthouse, standing 80 feet in its glory next to the Point Utretcht Bastion. Take time to browse the Dutch Hospital Shopping Complex, filled with unique souvenirs and local craft. The Dutch fort remains a working community today with its usual buzz of administrative offices, court complex, commercial buildings, churches and Southern folks frequenting its streets bracing the air of the Elysium of architecture, Galle!
Day 10: Galle / Ahungalla - Kosgoda – Colombo (B)
After breakfast at the hotel transfer from Galle / Ahungalla to Colombo and visit Kosgoda turtle hatcheries en route. This vibrant tourist destination sitting on the southern coast of Sri Lanka has been recognized by the Wildlife Protection Society with a Sea Turtle Conservation Project which operates on a large scale today.
Continue on to Colombo and explore the city sights and shopping malls before checking in to your accommodation.
Colombo is the country's commercial capital and engine room of the national economy, contributing over 50% of Sri Lanka’s GDP. Drive along the clean streets edging the crystal white Racecourse – a horse racing hub in 1893, then a World War II airstrip, and today the first rugby union field in Sri Lanka with a main pavilion filled with lavish clothing, food, & tea boutiques. Next, head to Pettah & experience the Floating Market - an offbeat shopping experience. Later, head along Bauddhaloka Mawatha towards 'Arcade' facing a historic waypost, the Independence Square. Every designer boutique, top-notch cuisine outlet and even a 'walk-over fish tank', have revamped this colonial masterpiece into one of the trendiest shopping and hangout zones in Sri Lanka. Have a chilled drink at the Dutch Hospital while gazing through windows showcasing the best fashion, jewellery & handicrafs. Smell the aroma of incense while listening to the chiming bells of Gangarama temple. During the evening, jazz things up with Colombo's night life. If you're lucky, head into an exhibition at the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) before swaying your head to an opera or play at Nelum Pokuna.
Once you have had your fill of all that Colombo has to offer, return to your hotel. Overnight in Colombo.
Day 11: Colombo – Airport (B)
After breakfast at the hotel, time at leisure before your transfer to Colombo International Airport for your onward flight.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 10 nights’ accommodation in standard rooms at hotels specified (or similar)
- Breakfast daily
- Transportation by air-conditioned vehicle
- English-Speaking Chauffeur Guide
- Sightseeing as specified in itinerary
- Entrance fees to Sigiriya Entrance, Minneriya National Park, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Kandy Temple and cultural show, Tea plantation, Ramboda Falls, Udawalawe National Park and Elephant Transit Home, Galle Fort, Kosgoda turtle hatcheries, Colombo Museum and Gangaramaya Temple.
- Jeep safari at the Minneriya and Udawalawe national parks.
- Train tickets from Kandy to Nanu Oya. (subject to availability)
- 24/7 local operator support in Sri Lanka
- Sri Lanka Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International airfares
- Optional tours and excursions
- Porterage
- Tipping/Gratuities (please refer to tour notes for a recommended guideline)
- Personal Expenses
- Departure taxes
- Hotel charges for minibar or any extra charges
- Visas (unless specified)
- Any other services not clearly mentioned in the inclusions above
Accommodation based on the following (or similar):
The hotel selection may change – please use this as a guideline only.
Negombo
First Class: Jetwing Sea
Deluxe Class: Jetwing Beach
Sigiriya
First Class: Aliya Resort
Deluxe Class: Cinnamon Lodge
Kandy
First Class: Cinnamon Citadel
Deluxe Class: Earl's Regency
Nuwara Eliya
First Class: Heritance Tea Factory
Deluxe Class: Heritance Tea Factory (* best available)
Udawalawe
First Class: Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort
Deluxe Class: Kalu’s Hideaway
Galle
First Class: Radisson Blu
Deluxe Class: Jetwing Lighthouse
Colombo
First Class: Galle Face Hotel
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.
