Sri Lankan Discovery - 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 time 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 - a city where colonial architecture, bustling streets and tranquil lakeside settings blend seamlessly. It’s the perfect place to ease into the rhythm of Sri Lanka.

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
After breakfast, enjoy a deeper exploration of Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and cultural melting pot.

Experience the city from a local perspective on a lively tuk-tuk tour, weaving through bustling streets, vibrant markets and historic neighbourhoods. Along the way, discover colonial landmarks, temples and everyday street life, gaining insight into the city’s unique blend of old and new.
From the seaside promenade of Galle Face Green to colourful local bazaars, Colombo offers a rich and engaging introduction to Sri Lanka.

Return to your hotel in the afternoon, with time to relax and enjoy the surroundings.

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

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 3 Colombo to Wilpattu National Park
After breakfast, depart Colombo and journey north toward Wilpattu National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most authentic and less-visited wildlife reserves. Known for its unique landscape of natural lakes, or “willus”, Wilpattu offers a quieter, more untouched safari experience compared to other parks.

This afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari. As you venture through the park, keep watch for elephants, spotted deer, water buffalo, sloth bears and an array of birdlife. Wilpattu is also one of the best places in Sri Lanka to spot the elusive leopard.

Stay at - Cloud Nine Wilpattu, Standard Room (3.5 Star) or similar
A comfortable safari-style lodge set close to the park, offering a relaxed atmosphere and an authentic wilderness experience.
Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 4 Wilpattu to Jaffna
After breakfast, continue your journey north to Jaffna, a region that feels distinctly different from the rest of Sri Lanka. Rich in Tamil culture, history and tradition, Jaffna offers a unique and authentic insight into the island’s northern heritage. On arrival, enjoy a guided exploration of Jaffna city, including the colourful Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. Visit the historic Jaffna Dutch Fort, which reflects the region’s colonial past, and the renowned Jaffna Public Library, an important cultural landmark. You may also enjoy a stop at the famous Rio Ice Cream parlour, a local favourite.

Stay at - Jetwing Jaffna, Deluxe Room (4 Star) or similar
A contemporary hotel in the heart of Jaffna, offering modern comfort and an excellent base to explore this unique and culturally rich region.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 5 Jaffna & Nagadeepa Island
Early this morning, travel to the jetty and board a private boat to Nagadeepa Island. This small island is home to the sacred Nagadeepa Temple, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site believed to be visited by the Buddha. The peaceful setting and spiritual significance make this a memorable and reflective experience. After your visit, enjoy some time at leisure to take in the coastal scenery, with its clear waters and relaxed island atmosphere.

Return to Jaffna in the afternoon and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Stay at - Jetwing Jaffna, Deluxe Room (4 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 6 Jaffna to Habarana
After breakfast, depart Jaffna and journey south toward Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, the heart of the island’s ancient civilisation. This is a longer travel day, but one that showcases the changing landscapes of Sri Lanka, from the dry northern plains to lush, forested regions. Arrive in Habarana, a peaceful area surrounded by lakes, jungle and wildlife, perfectly located for exploring the ancient cities and UNESCO World Heritage sites nearby.

The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax.

Stay at - Amaya Lake, Standard Villa (4 Star) or similar
Set on the shores of a tranquil lake, Amaya Lake offers spacious villa-style accommodation surrounded by lush greenery and natural beauty.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 7 Sigiriya, Village Experience & Polonnaruwa
An early start takes you to the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, one of Sri Lanka’s most remarkable landmarks. Rising dramatically from the surrounding plains, this UNESCO World Heritage site is often referred to as the “Lion Rock”. As you ascend, pass ancient frescoes and mirror walls before reaching the summit, where the ruins of a 5th-century royal palace and sweeping views await. Return to your hotel for breakfast.

Later, experience rural Sri Lankan life in Hiriwadunna. This authentic village experience offers insight into traditional farming practices and local culture, followed by a delicious home-style Sri Lankan lunch. In the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second medieval capital. Wander among well-preserved ruins, temples and statues, including the impressive Gal Viharaya rock carvings.

Stay at - Amaya Lake, Standard Villa (4 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Day 8 Habarana to Kandy (via Dambulla & Matale)
After breakfast, depart for Kandy.En route, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most impressive cave temple complexes in Sri Lanka. Inside, discover beautifully preserved murals and over 150 Buddha statues. Continue via Matale with a visit to a spice garden, where you will learn about Sri Lanka’s famous spices and their traditional uses.

Arrive in Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital, set around a scenic lake and surrounded by misty hills. 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 in the hills above Kandy, offering modern comfort and sweeping views in a peaceful setting.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9 Kandy to Hatton (Scenic Train Journey)
After breakfast, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Sri Lanka’s most sacred sites and a focal point of Buddhist worship.

Later, board the train for one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic journeys, travelling from Kandy into the heart of tea country. As the train winds through lush hills, tea plantations and misty valleys, this is a true highlight of the journey. Arrive in Hatton, a charming highland region surrounded by rolling green hills and tea estates.

Stay at - Hotel Argyle, Deluxe Room (4.5 Star) or similar
A charming boutique-style retreat set amidst the tea-covered hills, offering a peaceful and authentic highland experience.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10 Hatton (Tea Country Experience)
Today is dedicated to exploring Sri Lanka’s famous tea country. Visit a working tea plantation and factory, where you will learn about the production of world-renowned Ceylon tea - from plucking the leaves to the final brew. You may even try your hand at tea picking. Take time to enjoy the stunning scenery of rolling green hills, cool mountain air and tranquil surroundings that define this region.

Stay at - Hotel Argyle, Deluxe Room (4.5 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11 Hatton to Yala National Park
After breakfast, depart the cool highlands and journey toward Sri Lanka’s southern plains, where the landscape gradually transforms.

Arrive at Yala National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves. This afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari through the park. Yala is home to a rich variety of wildlife, including elephants, crocodiles, deer, monkeys and an incredible array of birdlife. It is also one of the best places in the world to spot the elusive Sri Lankan leopard.

Stay at - Cinnamon Wild Yala, Jungle Chalet (4 Star) or similar
Set on the edge of Yala National Park, this unique lodge offers an immersive wildlife experience, with chalet-style accommodation surrounded by nature.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12 Yala to Hikkaduwa (via Galle)
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 boutique shops, cafés and beautifully preserved buildings.

Continue to Hikkaduwa, a relaxed beach destination known for its golden sands, clear waters and laid-back atmosphere.

Stay at - Hikka Tranz, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar
A vibrant beachfront resort offering ocean views, modern comfort and direct access to the beach.

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13 Hikkaduwa
Today is at leisure to relax and enjoy Sri Lanka’s beautiful coastline. During your stay, visit a local turtle hatchery, where important conservation work is carried out to protect endangered sea turtles - a meaningful and memorable experience.

Otherwise, spend your day relaxing by the pool, walking along the beach or simply enjoying the tropical surroundings.

Stay at - Hikka Tranz, Superior Room (4 Star) or similar

Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14 Departure
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, 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 enjoy additional days at the beach side resort in Hikkaduwa or one of the other resorts along Sri lanka's South Western coast - wonderful way to further relax and extend your Sri Lanka experience.