Discover the fascinating heritage of Sri Lanka, from ancient
Buddhist monuments to delicious tea-tastings and a chance to see
elusive leopards
Explore the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean' on a small-group tour of
beautiful Sri Lanka. Uncover ancient monuments and captivating
temples such as Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress, the ancient capital of
Polonnaruwa, and an ornate temple said to contain one of Buddha's
teeth on this unspoilt island of tropical forests and golden
beaches.
While enjoying the sights of the buzzing cities of Colombo,
Kandy and Galle, head off the beaten track to search for leopards
and elephants, and try your hand at tea-picking before a tasting of
renowned Ceylon tea.
Unforgettable experiences
Leopard safari in Yala National Park
Enjoy two wonderful safaris in this expansive park of lush forests, arid plains and placid lagoons, where we hope to catch a glimpse of a leopard – as well as elephants, crocodiles, mongooses and buffalo.
Crossing the Nine Arches Bridge to Demodara
Rising nearly 100 feet above the ground, the curved Nine Arches Bridge is one of the highlights of this charming rail journey amongst waterfalls, mountains and jungle from Nanu Oya to Demodara.
Tea-picking experience in Nuwara Eliya
Sri Lanka is one of the world’s main producers of tea. Learn all about tea production at a working plantation, try your hand at picking tea leaves, and settle down for a delicious tasting.
Admiring the mysterious Sigiriya Lion Rock fortress
A jaw-dropping 5th-century fortress sits atop a spectacular 600-foot granite rock. Marvel at this breathtaking sight and view ancient rock paintings, with the option of climbing to the top for astonishing vistas.
Exploring Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s ancient capital
With a history stretching back more than 1,500 years, Polonnaruwa ruled over Sri Lanka from the 10th to 13th centuries and today contains an incredible array of rock shrine and vast stupa.
Strolling through Galle Fort’s historic lanes
One of the best-preserved examples of a European citadel in southern Asia, Galle’s majestic fort juts out into the Indian Ocean and showcases stunning Dutch and Portuguese colonial architecture.
What’s included on the tour?
Tour Manager
Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
Accommodation
13-nights’ 4 & 5-Star hotel accommodation
Transportation
First Class rail travel where available
All rail and coach travel throughout your tour
Flights
Return flights from London Heathrow to Colombo, via Doha
Regional departures available
Food & Drink
Breakfast and dinner each day, 3 lunches
Luggage
Group luggage transfers between hotels from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Small Group
Our small groups range has an average group size of 22
Enjoy enhanced excursions and exclusive experiences
Excursions & Entertainment
All guided tours and excursions
Tips
In India it's customary to leave a tip for local guides, coach drivers and assistants. Tipping is at your discretion, but should you wish to leave a token of your appreciation, we recommend £16 to cover all necessary services, which can be arranged with the Tour Manager at end of your holiday.
Please note: optional excursions are available at an extra cost, payable while you’re away.
Not Included
Cancellation & Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the tour
Itinerary
Overnight flight to Colombo, Sri Lanka
Our Sri Lankan holiday begins at London Heathrow, where we meet
our Tour Manager ready for an overnight flight to Colombo, via Doha
in Qatar.
Known as the 'Pearl of the Indian Ocean', the tropical
teardrop-shaped island of Sri Lanka is separated by India by just
22 miles of the Gulf of Mannar but has a rich culture and heritage
all of its own.
Colonised by the Portuguese, Dutch and British, Sri Lanka was
settled in around 500BC by the Sinhalese, who adopted Buddhism and
found inventive means by which to grow rice. A cycle of wealth and
subjugation followed for the next thousand years but reminders of
this great civilisation remain. Europeans discovered Sri Lanka's
native cinnamon during the peak of the spice trade in the 1500s and
until 1948 the island swapped hands.
With endless sandy beaches, delicious food and lush jungles
awash with mystical temples, Sri Lanka today is a wonderful country
that remains off the main tourist routes - for now.
Welcome to historic Colombo
Touching down at Bandaranaike International Airport this
morning, we are transferred to our five-star hotel in Sri Lanka's
capital, Colombo, where we have a welcome drink on arrival.
Overlooking the banks of Beira Lake, this luxurious resort hotel is
a short distance from the historic Port district, where ornate
colonial buildings contrast with modern, glistening banks and
offices.
Although a bustling city of business and trade, Colombo is also
a popular tourist destination with historic sights and an appealing
stretch of coast on the Indian Ocean. This afternoon and early
evening is free to unwind and acclimatise to the surroundings,
maybe taking a dip in the outside pool lined by palm trees or
relaxing on the terrace.
This evening, we travel the short distance to a delightful
restaurant that recreates the enchanting surroundings of a
traditional Sri Lankan village around an ancient banyan tree. Here,
we enjoy a delicious buffet of authentic local cuisine.
Includes
Dinner
Uncovering Sri Lanka’s fascinating capital
We get to know Colombo after breakfast when we are joined by an
expert local guide for a sightseeing tour of this historic
city.
Beginning at the stately Colombo National Museum, we explore
artefacts that detail the intriguing stories of ancient Sri Lanka
before marvelling at the eclectic architecture of the Gangaramaya
Temple. A kaleidoscope of Buddhist sculptures, imagery and vibrant
colours, this 19th-century place of worship is one of the city's
most important. From here, we visit Independence Square, built to
commemorate the end of British rule in 1948. A monument to 'Father
of the Nation' DS Senanayake stands next to the memorial hall - the
design of which is based on the celebration hall of the Kingdom of
Kandy.
There is free time over lunch to enjoy some local cuisine
independently before we transfer to our new hotel. Travelling
through the lush jungle interior of Sri Lanka into the 'cultural
triangle', we arrive in Habarana and check in to our enchanting
accommodation nestled in the forests beside a peaceful lake. Dinner
this evening is at our four-star hotel.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Sigiriya’s ancient Lion Rock Fortress
After breakfast at our hotel, we set out to view one of Sri
Lanka's most spectacular sights - a UNESCO-listed 5th-century
fortress and city centred on a jaw-dropping overhanging granite
rock looming high out of the jungle.
This spellbinding pillar rises some 600 feet above the ground
and contains the remains of a citadel constructed by King Kashyapa
I who reigned from 477-495AD. The stairway through the rock
displays ancient paintings of celestial dancers and originally led
to an entrance through the mouth of a mighty crouched lion carved
out of the rock. Now, however, only the impressive paws at the
bottom remain. If you're keen to experience this, there is the
option to climb the steep stairs and admire the breathtaking views
from the top of pristine jungle and rolling mountains - or you
could discover the royal palace and elegant gardens at ground
level.
After lunch at our hotel, we transfer to Polonnaruwa - the
ancient capital of Sri Lanka. Here, we explore the captivating
archaeological remains of once-glorious rock shrines, mighty
monuments and vast dome-shaped stupas. Dinner this evening is back
at our beautiful hotel in Habarana.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sacred cave temples of Dambulla
Setting out on a coach journey to Kandy after breakfast, we stop
at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temples. The main entrance of
this important pilgrimage site is guarded by a giant golden Buddha.
Inside are sacred cave temples concealed by a giant, overhanging
rock and filled with Buddhist iconography.
Inhabited by forest-dwelling monks since the 3rd century BC, the
caves are believed to have provided sanctuary for an ancient king.
On regaining his throne, King Valagamba commissioned a series of
incredible carved images. Further paintings were added by later
monarchs, and these images demonstrate the evolution of ancient Sri
Lankan art. Alongside more than 150 different statues of the Buddha
and murals depicting the various stages of his life, we admire the
stunning statues of Hindu deities, including Vishnu and
Ganesha.
Continuing to Kandy, we stop enroute for the opportunity to have
lunch independently. Our accommodation tonight is a four-star hotel
overlooking the Mahaweli River and lush foliage. The rest of your
afternoon is free to relax, before dinner in the hotel's restaurant
this evening.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Kandy and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth
An expert local guide joins us after breakfast as we set out to
discover Kandy. Our explorations of Sri Lanka's religious capital
begin at the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens. Previously a
garden for the exclusive use of a Sinhala king and later expanded
by the British, these beautiful havens are Sri Lanka's largest and
most impressive with more than 4,000 types of flora, including a
famous collection of orchids and an avenue of towering palms.
After lunch at a local restaurant, we enjoy a guided tour of a
city where ancient Buddhist temples and Kanyan art stand beside
colonial British architecture. After visiting the city's market
square where local vendors sell an enticing range of tropical
fruits, spices, and authentic crafts, we arrive at the Temple of
the Sacred Tooth Relic. This two-storey golden-roofed shrine is
said to hold one of Buddha's actual teeth, which is laid on a
golden lotus flower, encased in a jewelled casket and sat on a
throne.
Returning to our hotel, there is time to unwind before
dinner.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The charming ‘tea train’ to Nanu Oya
A highlight of our Sri Lankan holiday awaits today as we are
transferred to Peradeniya railway station after breakfast, for a
journey on the delightful 'tea train'.
This scenic route is famed for its picturesque scenery as we
climb into the central highlands, navigating mountainous slopes,
bridges and tunnels as misty hills, lush forests and cascading
waterfalls pass our windows. With a packed lunch provided, we are
free to marvel at this stunning landscape lined with vast tea
plantations. The breathtaking vistas make this trip popular with
visitors, but it also provides a glimpse into daily life in rural
Sri Lanka on a service that is a lifeline for locals.
We arrive in Nanu Oya after skirting the imposing Great Western
Mountain. Here, we are transferred to our hotel near Nuwara Eliya.
With its temperate climate, manicured green spaces and colonial
architecture, it's easy to understand how this town became known as
'Little England'. Our 5-Star hotel is surrounded by verdant forests
and after checking in, dinner is served in the restaurant.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tea-picking and tasting at a working plantation
Sri Lanka is renowned for its tea production, but it wasn't
always that way. Once famed for coffee, it was the British who
brought tea to the island in 1824. When coffee was hit by a
terrible blight, tea boomed. A commercial plantation was
established by James Taylor and the first shipment of 'Ceylon' tea
reached London in 1875. Today, Sri Lanka provides tea for 10% of
the world's cuppas.
We learn all about this popular drink as we travel to Ramboda
after breakfast, where we enjoy a tour of a plantation and factory.
After discovering the different types of black tea produced here,
there is a chance to partake in a hands-on experience of plucking
tea leaves straight from the plant. Afterwards, we settle down on
the al fresco terrace for a tasting overlooking emerald-hued tiers
of tea. If you wish, you can have lunch independently in the
restaurant.
At our hotel this afternoon, we indulge in a decadent high tea,
admiring our scenic setting amid the manicured gardens before
dinner tonight.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Demodara by scenic rail and on to Tissamaharama
Our rail tour of Sri Lanka continues as we leave our Nuwara
Eliya hotel after breakfast and a leisurely morning to board a
train to Demodara. Incredible jungle views pass by the carriages as
we enter a wilderness of mountains where waterfalls plunge down
rugged cliffs. One of the most spectacular sights on this route is
the Nine Arches Bridge. This curved viaduct near Ella provides
magnificent views of the surrounding scenery and tea plantations
from its vantage point nearly 100 feet above the ground.
From Demodara, we continue our journey by coach to
Tissamaharama, stopping enroute where there is the option for you
to have lunch independently. On arrival in Tissamaharama near Yala
National Park, we check in to our beautiful four-star spa hotel,
where there is time to unwind.
Tissamaharama is known for its ancient Buddhist stupa, one of
the largest in Sri Lanka. Believed to have been built by King
Kavantissa more than 2,000 years ago, it is thought to have been
consecrated by Buddha himself. This evening, we gather in the
restaurant for dinner.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Looking for leopards at Yala National Park
Rising very early this morning, we make our way before sunrise
into nearby Yala National Park, the largest in Sri Lanka, to spot
the fantastic native wildlife. The park is made up of diverse
landscapes, including monsoon forests, dusty plains and serene
lagoons, with a backdrop of the Indian Ocean. Setting out on a Jeep
safari, we search for leopards, wild boar, elephants, and even
crocodiles with our knowledgeable local guide. There are also
hundreds of different bird species which call this protected
reserve home, including the crested serpent eagle and rare purple
heron.
Returning to our hotel for a late breakfast and time to unwind,
we set out on a second safari this afternoon to increase our
chances of spotting the majestic but elusive leopard. Yala has the
largest concentration of these graceful predators per square
kilometre in Asia, but they aren't the only creatures in the park -
keep an eye out for mongoose, wild buffalo and the large sambar
deer.
Dinner is served at our hotel this evening.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Along the coast to the colonial town of Galle
Like other island nations in the Indian Ocean such as the nearby
Maldives, Sri Lanka has some incredible tropical beaches. Long,
golden sand slices of paradise lined with lofty palm trees and
lapped by bright blue waters appeal to a variety of beach-lovers.
From Bohemian retreats to lively surf resorts and locals' beaches,
southern Sri Lanka is an underrated idyll.
After breakfast in Tissamaharama, we travel along the south
coast to the historic port city of Galle for a guided walking tour.
With a natural harbour, a labyrinth of quaint narrow streets, and a
delightfully preserved UNESCO-protected Portuguese and Dutch
fortress, Galle is fascinating to explore. We admire white-washed
houses and grand religious buildings along the peninsula, as well
as the 16th-century fortifications and car-free historical centre
in the company of our expert guide. There is free time to continue
exploring this charming city and enjoy lunch independently.
From Galle, we continue up the lush west coast to our five-star
beach hotel in Beruwala overlooking the Indian Ocean, where we have
dinner this evening.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Unwinding by the Indian Ocean
Today is free to spend as you wish in Beruwala, home to one of
the longest beaches in the country. Breakfast is included at our
luxurious hotel, right next to the beach. You could spend the day
swimming in the warm Indian Ocean, reading in the shade of a palm
tree on the golden sands, or make an appointment at the wellness
centre, which offers a fantastic choice of treatments amid the
tranquil surroundings of the Balinese-inspired spa.
The buzzing town of Beruwela retains its authentic charm, and
you could decide to explore or take a gentle stroll down the warm
sand to sample some delectable seafood or traditional Sri Lankan
curries. Nearby, Aluthgama sits on a bend in the Bentota River and
bustles with souvenir shops.
This evening, dinner is served at our hotel.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Free time in tropical Beruwala
Today is a free day and, if you'd like to explore further and
take part in some local activities, there is a choice of optional
excursions available today (payable locally).
The first possibility is joining an optional whale-watching trip
from Mirissa Harbour, a stretch of Sri Lanka's southern coast with
the highest concentration of blue whales in the world. Embarking
early in the morning with a packed breakfast supplied, you set sail
into the Indian Ocean to spot these incredible mammals - the
largest animals on the planet. This part of the ocean is also a
great place to see sperm whales.
Alternatively, you could combine a visit to a nearby turtle
hatchery to participate in their baby turtle release programme with
a boat ride up the serene Madu River amid cinnamon trees.
We enjoy dinner at the hotel this evening.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Return to Colombo for dinner with a view
Our final day in Sri Lanka starts with a leisurely morning to
enjoy the hotel facilities before returning to the capital. After
checking in to our original hotel in Colombo, there's free time to
unwind or explore at your own pace.
You could choose to head to the Pettah Floating Market to browse
the stalls of local produce and handicrafts, or shop for souvenirs
in the stores around the old Dutch Market.
This evening, we head to the Colombo Lotus Tower - the tallest
building in Sri Lanka. The lotus flower is a symbol of purity in
the country and its design represents a blossoming bud. In the
evening, this striking tower is illuminated. At the top of the
tower, we enter a revolving restaurant for dinner with spectacular
360° views of the city - an unforgettable end to our exploration of
Sri Lanka.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Homeward bound
Departing our hotel with a packed breakfast, we make the short
journey to the airport this morning, before our flight back to the
UK.
This intriguing tour has taken us from the historic, bustling
cities of Colombo, Kandy and Galle to wild tropical jungle on
delightful rail journeys. The serene temples and mighty rock
fortresses, idyllic beaches and wonderful wildlife of Sri Lanka has
captivated and charmed us in equal measure.
After a stopover at Doha in Qatar, we arrive back at London
Heathrow this evening, where you can continue your journey
home.
Please note that while every departure of this tour will feature
the same excursions, the order may differ from that shown
above.
Classic collection
Our Classic range is what we're known for. Enjoy curated moments
with plenty of inclusions. Centrally located hotels, premium travel
options and engaging group tours with a seasoned expert are
included. You'll be in groups with an average of 20-25 travellers
and a maximum of 30*. *Scandinavian and Worldwide tours are on
average 30-35 and a maximum of 40.
If your tour is marked as Small Group, enjoy a more immersive
holiday experience, exploring with a like-minded group of just 22
travellers on average.
Departure times
Provisional departure and return times, where available, can be
found together with our dates and prices by clicking on the 'Prices
& Availability' button. We write to all booked customers
approximately 10 weeks prior to the start of their tour to advise
the exact departure and return time for their particular group.
Visa requirements
Mobility information
Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.
Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a
difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the
capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager
the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West
End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your
return to London, you would like to break your journey with an
overnight stay before continuing home.
We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.
UK rail connections
Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business -
there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules
and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international
departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible
ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday
change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.
We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.
For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.
Reviews
4.7 / 5 · 31 reviews
5 stars
(23)
4 stars
(7)
3 stars
(1)
2 stars
(0)
1 star
(0)
Gillian Hopkins
Submitted 25/Mar
This holiday excelled all expectations. The itinerary was full, exciting and varied with lots of unexpected extras thrown in which enhanced the whole experience. Too many special moments, but my highlights were tea picking, releasing turtles into the ocean , watching the sun set over Colombo from a sky lounge, visit to Sigiriya and the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Harry our local guide was fantastic- his knowledge of his country, his enthusiasm and sense of fun made this trip extra special.
The hotels were excellent and food wonderful . Sri Lanka is an absolutely beautiful place, the people friendly and welcoming- a country not to be missed and this trip is the perfect way to explore it .
Collected by Trustpilot
Graham Davies
Submitted 17/Mar
We have had many holidays with GR, but this was one of the best we’ve had. This was enhanced by a great tour manager Jane and guide Harry. The hotels were of a very good standard and overall the travel arrangements worked very well. The Cinnamon Bey Hotel at Beruwala was very large, so impacted on the noise level in the dining area. GR reserved seating in a quieter restaurant, which most of us tended to use and appreciated. The included excursions were varied and interesting and we paid for the Turtle release which was very enjoyable.
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J Giles
Submitted 13/Mar
The most wonderful holiday! The most beautiful island, so varied and so interesting. Really sorry to leave it. Friendly people. Clean and laid back country. Also delightful group of fellow travellers and impressive local guide. Tour guide very helpful and caring. Loved it all
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Matt
Submitted 3/Mar
A wonderful experience. Everything ran smoothly thanks to an excellent Tour Manager (Gordon Barr) and local guide (Ravi). The hotels were all excellent with superb facilities and a wide choice of food. This tour was a great way to see the beautiful country of Sri Lanka and all the important sites.
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Tel
Submitted 3/Mar
Absolutely amazing tour with a great group of people. Both tour guides, British and Sri Lanka ensured we got the most of our experiences going above and beyond. Dinner on the last night at the lotus tower was a perfect ending.
Great tour manager and amazing local guide, unfortunately didn't see a leopard but so many other memorable sights and opportunities. Sri Lanka is a beautiful country with such lovely friendly people, would definitely recommend the tour.