Note: Rates are not valid over public or religious holiday periods
Early Booking Special Offer
SAVE $500 per person
Book and pay deposit by 31 August 2026
T's & C"s apply
Small Group Tour
11 days ex Colombo
Set Departures
2026 Departure Dates:
Sep: 04, 18 | Oct: 02, 16, 30 | Nov: 06
2027 Departure Dates:
Feb: 02, 19 | Mar: 05, 19 | Apr: 23
Note: Rates are not valid over public or religious holidays
Negombo (1) | Sigiriya/Kandalama (2) | Kandy (1) | Nuwara Eliya (2) | Yala (2) | Galle (2)
From ancient royal capitals and sacred temples to mist-covered tea plantations, wildlife-rich national parks and palm-fringed beaches, this 11-day journey showcases the remarkable diversity of Sri Lanka. Explore the legendary rock fortress of Sigiriya, wander through the ruins of medieval kingdoms, discover the spiritual heart of Kandy, travel through the emerald-green tea country of Nuwara Eliya, search for leopards in Yala National Park, and unwind along the idyllic southern coastline. Accompanied by a private chauffeur guide throughout, this immersive itinerary combines culture, nature, wildlife and relaxation in one of Asia's most captivating destinations.
Highlights:
- 24/7 service and full local backup throughout Sri Lanka
- Climb the iconic UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Explore the ancient royal city of Polonnaruwa
- Experience authentic village life in the Cultural Triangle
- Visit the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple
- Discover Kandy and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
- Traditional Kandyan cultural performance
- Tour a working tea plantation and tea factory
- Explore the colonial hill station of Nuwara Eliya
- Two safaris in Yala National Park
- Opportunity to spot leopards, elephants and sloth bears
- Explore the historic Galle Fort
- Madampe River safari through mangrove wetlands
- Relax on Sri Lanka's beautiful southern coastline
- Private chauffeur/guide throughout the journey
- Itinerary
- Accommodation
- Important Information
Day 1: Colombo – Negombo
Ayubowan! On arrival in Sri Lanka, you are warmly welcomed by your private chauffeur-guide and transferred to the relaxed coastal town of Negombo. Known for its golden beaches, lagoon waterways and colonial heritage, this is the perfect introduction to island life. Settle into your beachfront hotel and unwind as the Indian Ocean breeze signals the beginning of your journey.
Day 2: Negombo – Kandalama – Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Kandalama (B)
Journey inland to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, a landscape where ancient kingdoms once flourished amid vast reservoirs and jungle-fringed plains. This afternoon, ascend the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rising dramatically above the jungle canopy. Explore royal gardens, frescoed galleries and the famed Mirror Wall before reaching the summit for breathtaking panoramic views. Continue to your lakeside retreat at Kandalama for a tranquil evening surrounded by nature.
Day 3: Kandalama – Ancient Polonnaruwa & Village Experience (B)
Discover the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa, where stone-carved temples, royal palaces and serene Buddha statues reflect the grandeur of a bygone civilisation. Continue into the countryside for an authentic village experience, including a traditional catamaran crossing and a warm glimpse into rural Sri Lankan life, enriched by local hospitality and time-honoured traditions.
Day 4: Kandalama - Dambulla Cave Temple - Kandy (B) approx. 1.5 hours
Visit the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple, a remarkable complex of rock-hewn shrines adorned with ancient murals and statues. Continue to Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, set around a serene lake and framed by forested hills. Visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and witness a captivating Kandyan cultural performance showcasing traditional dance and drumming.
Day 5: Kandy - Tea Country - Nuwara Eliya (B)
Begin the day at the beautifully landscaped Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens before ascending into Sri Lanka’s emerald highlands. Travel through rolling tea estates and mist-covered valleys, stopping at a plantation and factory to experience the artistry behind world-renowned Ceylon Tea. Arrive in Nuwara Eliya, a charming colonial-era hill station often referred to as “Little England,” where crisp mountain air and manicured landscapes create a distinctly refined atmosphere.
Day 6: Nuwara Eliya – Tea Estates (B)
Spend the day exploring this elegant highland retreat. Wander through tea-clad hills, discover colonial architecture, browse local markets and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Gregory Lake. The day is at leisure to soak in the calm rhythm and cool climate of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque mountain town.
Day 7: Nuwara Eliya – Yala National Park (B)
Descend from the highlands into the wild southern plains of Yala National Park. In the afternoon, set out on an exhilarating safari through one of Asia’s most celebrated wildlife reserves. Home to leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an extraordinary diversity of birdlife, Yala offers one of the finest wildlife experiences in the region.
Day 8: Yala Safari (B)
Rise early for a dawn safari as the park awakens in golden light. Explore new trails in search of elusive wildlife and experience the raw beauty of Yala at its most active. Return to your lakeside resort for an afternoon at leisure, surrounded by peaceful wilderness.
Day 9: Yala - Galle Fort - Ahungalle (B)
Travel along the scenic southern coastline to the historic fortified city of Galle. Explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, where cobbled streets, colonial architecture and ocean views create an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Continue to Ahungalle and check in to your beachfront resort, a masterpiece of tropical modernism designed by Geoffrey Bawa. Spend the evening at leisure beside the Indian Ocean.
Day 10: Madampe River Safari (B)
Discover the tranquil beauty of Sri Lanka's coastal wetlands on a boat safari through the mangrove-lined waterways of the Madampe River. Watch for colourful birdlife, monitor lizards and traditional fishing communities as you navigate this peaceful ecosystem. The afternoon is yours to relax by the beach or pool.
Day 11: Ahungalle - Colombo Airport (B)
After a leisurely breakfast, check out and transfer to Colombo International Airport for your onward flight, concluding your Sri Lankan journey through ancient heritage sites, hill-country landscapes, wildlife reserves, and tropical coastlines.
TOUR INCLUSIONS:
- 24/7 back up throughout Sri Lanka
- 10 nights accommodation
- Breakfasts daily
- Transported by air-conditioned vehicle
- English speaking driver/guide
- Entrance fees Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Hiriwaduna Village Tour, Polonnaruwa Dambulla Cave temple, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Kandy Temple, Yala National Park x 2, Madampe Boat Tour, Galle Museum
- 2 x Jeep rides at Yala National Park
- Sri Lanka Travel Notes – issued by Innovative Travel
TOUR EXCLUSIONS:
- International Airfares
- Transfers
- Optional tours and excursions
- Drinks during meals
- Porterage
- Mandatory 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: Earls Regent – Standard Room
Kandalama
First Class: Amaya Lake - Standard Villa
Kandy
First Class: Cinnamon Citadel Kandy – Superior Room
Nuwara Eliya
First Class: Araliya Green Hills – Standard Room
Yala
First Class: Double Tree by Hilton Weerawila Rajawarna - King Deluxe Room
Ahungalle
First Class: Heritance Ahungalle – Standard Room
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.
