Best of Sri Lanka - Small Group Tour

Day 1 Colombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka, the jewel of the Indian Ocean.

On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be warmly met and transferred to your hotel in Colombo.

After your journey, take the opportunity to relax and settle in, perhaps enjoying the hotel’s facilities or a gentle stroll nearby. Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital offers a fascinating introduction to the island, blending colonial history with modern energy, bustling streets and lakeside calm.

This evening, for those who have arrived earlier in the day, enjoy a welcome dinner.

Stay at - Cinnamon Lakeside, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar
Set beside tranquil Beira Lake, Cinnamon Lakeside offers a peaceful retreat in the heart of Colombo, with spacious rooms, lush gardens and a relaxed resort-style atmosphere.

Meals included: Dinner

Day 2 Colombo - Pinnawala - Habarana
After breakfast, begin your day with an immersive introduction to Colombo. Travel like a local on a fun and engaging tuk-tuk city tour, weaving through lively streets, colourful markets and historic neighbourhoods. Along the way, gain insight into daily life in Colombo, from colonial landmarks to bustling street scenes.

Depart Colombo and journey to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the heart of the island’s ancient civilisation.

En route, visit the renowned Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where rescued and orphaned elephants are cared for. Watching these gentle giants interact in a natural environment is a memorable and meaningful experience.

Later, continue to Habarana, a peaceful, nature-rich region surrounded by forests and lakes - the perfect base for exploring Sri Lanka’s ancient cities.

Stay at - Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar
Nestled within lush tropical gardens, Cinnamon Lodge offers a true nature retreat, with charming chalet-style rooms, abundant birdlife, resident monkeys and a serene lakeside setting.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3 Sigiriya - Hirirwadunna - Polonnaruwa
An early start this morning takes you to one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks - Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as the “Lion Rock”. As you climb, pass ancient frescoes and mirror walls before reaching the summit, where the ruins of a 5th-century royal palace and breathtaking panoramic views await.

Return to your hotel for a well-earned breakfast.

Later, enjoy a truly authentic Sri Lankan experience in the village of Hiriwadunna. Travel through rural landscapes, meet local villagers and gain insight into traditional ways of life, culminating in a delicious home-style Sri Lankan lunch.

In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second medieval capital. Wander among remarkably preserved ruins, including royal palaces, sacred stupas and the impressive Gal Viharaya rock temples.
Return to your hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.

Stay at - Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 4 Habarana - Dambulla - Matale - Kandy
After breakfast, continue your journey through Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland toward Kandy. En route, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive cave temple complexes in Asia. Inside, discover a series of sacred caves adorned with intricate murals and hundreds of Buddha statues, some dating back over 2,000 years.

Continue via Matale with a visit to a traditional spice garden. Here, you will learn about the spices that have shaped Sri Lanka’s history and cuisine, from cinnamon and cardamom to pepper and nutmeg.

Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital, set amidst misty hills and centred around a scenic lake. This evening, enjoy a vibrant cultural dance performance showcasing traditional Kandyan music and dance.

Stay at - Kandy Myst by Cinnamon, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar
Perched above the hills of Kandy, this contemporary hotel offers sweeping views, modern comfort and a tranquil atmosphere just moments from the city.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5 Kandy - Nuwara Eliya
Begin your day with a visit to one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites - the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the heart of Kandy, this revered temple houses what is believed to be a relic of the Buddha himself and remains an important place of pilgrimage.

Afterwards, depart Kandy and travel into Sri Lanka’s scenic hill country, where the landscape transforms into rolling tea plantations, misty mountains and cool, fresh air. During your drive, make a scenic stop at the picturesque Ramboda Waterfalls, cascading through lush greenery - a perfect photo opportunity and continue to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England”, known for its colonial charm, manicured gardens and tea estates. Visit a working tea factory, where you will learn about the production of world-famous Ceylon tea, followed by a tasting experience.

Stay at - Araliya Green City, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar
A modern highland retreat in the heart of Nuwara Eliya, offering spacious comfort and easy access to the town’s colonial charm and surrounding tea country.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6 Nuwara Eliya - Ella
After breakfast, transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station for one of the most scenic train journeys in the world. Sit back and relax as the train winds its way through mist-covered mountains, lush tea plantations and dramatic valleys. This unforgettable journey is a true highlight of any Sri Lanka itinerary.

Arrive in Ella, a charming hill country village known for its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular scenery. On arrival, transfer to your hotel for a two night stay, enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, taking in the fresh mountain air and beautiful surroundings and views from your hotel.

Stay at - On Rock Hotel Ella, Deluxe Room (4 Star) or similar
Set high above the valley, On Rock Ella offers spectacular panoramic views, contemporary design and a peaceful hillside setting surrounded by nature.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7 Ella
This morning, enjoy a gentle hike to Little Adam’s Peak, one of Ella’s most popular viewpoints. The walk is relatively easy and rewards you with sweeping views across the surrounding mountains and tea plantations.

Later, visit the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive colonial-era railway bridge set amidst dense jungle and rolling hills, and one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax, explore the village or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the highlands.

Stay at - On Rock Hotel Ella, Deluxe Room (4 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8 Ella - Yala National Park
After breakfast, descend from the cool highlands toward Sri Lanka’s southern plains. En route, stop at the picturesque Ravana Ella Waterfalls, cascading down the mountainside.

Continue onto Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves and home to an incredible diversity of animals. This afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari through the park. Keep your eyes open for elephants, crocodiles, deer, birdlife and, if you are lucky, the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Stay at - EKHO Safari Tissa, Deluxe Room (4 Star) or similar
Located on the edge of Yala National Park, EKHO Safari offers a comfortable wilderness experience with views over the surrounding landscape and easy access to safari adventures.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9 Yala - Galle - Beruwala
After breakfast, travel along Sri Lanka’s scenic southern coastline. En route, visit the historic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in colonial history. Wander through charming cobbled streets lined with boutiques, cafés and beautifully preserved buildings.

Continue north along the coast to Beruwala, a relaxed beach destination known for its golden sands and tranquil setting. Check in to your beachside resort for a two-night stay and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Stay at - Cinnamon Bey Beruwala, Superior Room (5 Star) or similar
A stylish beachfront resort offering spacious rooms, ocean views and a relaxed coastal atmosphere — the perfect setting to unwind after your journey.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10 Beruwala
Today is your last full tour day and it’s yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax by the pool, stroll along the beach, head into town for some shopping or simply take in the warm coastal atmosphere.

During your stay, there is an opportunity visit a local turtle hatchery, where important conservation work is undertaken to protect endangered sea turtles, making for a meaningful and memorable experience.

This final day offers the perfect opportunity to unwind and reflect on your journey through Sri Lanka.

Stay at - Cinnamon Bey Beruwala, Superior Room (5 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11 Beruwala - Colombo
After breakfast, your Sri Lankan journey comes to an end. Transfer to Colombo Airport for your onward flight, taking with you wonderful memories of Sri Lanka’s culture, landscapes and warm hospitality.

Meals included: Breakfast

Extend Your Stay:

For guests with late evening departures from Colombo Airport, late check-out options can be arranged for your comfort and convenience (additional cost applies, please enquire at time of booking).

If you have more time, why not extend your stay and finish your Sri Lanka experience with a relaxing beach resort escape or an additional night in Colombo. Additional nights, sightseeing and transfers can be arranged on request.