Highlights of Sri Lanka

Itinerary Details

Day 1: Colombo Arrival

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka!

After completing custom formalities and collecting your luggage, proceed to the arrival lounge to meet our Representative who will be waiting for you. Once met he will introduce your chauffeur guide, with whom you can begin your journey to uncover the wonders of this island. We proceed to your first stop in Colombo.

Overnight in Ramada Colombo or similar.

Day 2: Colombo (B)

After breakfast, set out on a Colombo sightseeing tour, passing key colonial landmarks such as the Presidential Secretariat and the Grand Oriental Hotel, along with visits to a Buddhist temple, a Hindu kovil, and the striking Grand Mosque. Continue into your Insider Experience as you explore Fort and the bustling Pettah markets on foot, discovering colourful stalls and lively trading streets. Visit a local kovil and then Gangaramaya Temple, admired for its ornate décor and impressive collection of sacred artefacts. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to relax or wander independently—perhaps stroll along Galle Face Green and watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Overnight in Ramada Colombo or similar.

Day 3: Colombo to Anuradhapura (B)

Start your day with a drive to Negombo to explore the lively Llelama Fish Market, where fishermen unload the morning catch and the lagoon buzzes with activity. Continue north to watch local toddy-tapping, gaining insight into this traditional craft. Then drive onward to the impressive Aukana Buddha Statue, a towering masterpiece carved from a single rock. Afterward, continue to Anuradhapura, where you discover Sri Lanka’s ancient capital, famed for its vast dagabas, sacred relics, and remarkable archaeological sites. On arrival, settle into your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight in Lake Forest Hotel or similar.

Day 4: Anuradhapura (B)

Begin your morning with a visit to Mihintale, the scenic hillside complex considered the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism, where you can climb the ancient steps or explore the lower terraces at your own pace. In the afternoon, discover Anuradhapura’s iconic sites, including the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, the ancient columns of the Brazen Palace, and the historic Thuparama Dagoba. Later, enjoy a special Insider Experience as you visit the revered Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba at dusk, soaking in the serene yet vibrant atmosphere created by pilgrims gathering for evening prayers.

Overnight in Lake Forest Hotel or similar.

Day 5: Anuradhapura to Sigiriya (B/ L/ D)

Start your morning with an authentic village experience near Habarana, travelling by bullock cart to learn about rural farming life and enjoying a simple, traditional lunch made with local ingredients. You may also take a peaceful boat ride along a scenic waterway home to fishing eagles. In the afternoon, explore the ancient capital of Polonnaruwa, visiting the Royal Palace ruins, the historic Quadrangle, and the remarkable standing and reclining Buddha statues at Gal Vihara. After your visit, continue to Sigiriya and settle into your hotel beneath the island’s most iconic landmark.

Overnight in Hotel Sigiriya or similar.

Day 6: Sigiriya (B/ D)

Early, this morning we explore the incredible rock of Sigiriya. Ancient monastery or palace, its possibly two millennia of history hidden in myth and legend, the view of the rock alone is breathtaking. Climbing the steps of the rock even more so – this is a steep climb involving several thousand steps. Those not wanting or able to climb may enjoy the fine park-like water and boulder gardens at the base, which offer more views of the rock. For climbers, the first treat is the superb Apsara frescoes about halfway to the summit. A final ascent through two enormous rock lion’s paws brings you to the summit, with its rock foundations and sweeping views of the surrounding jungles and countryside.

Please note: The climb is only suitable for those with good fitness; plenty of water and sun protection should be carried. In the afternoon enjoy free time to relax by the hotel pool - or join your tour leader for a visit to the deserted forest monastery of Ritigala, with its famously ornate “urinal stones”.

Overnight in Hotel Sigiriya or similar.

Day 7: Sigiriya to Kandy (B/ L)

After breakfast, drive to Dambulla to visit the 1st-century BC Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, where beautifully preserved murals and statues fill five sacred caverns; those not wishing to climb the 360 steps may wait comfortably at the base. Continue to Matale for a shaded 45 min walking tour and time to browse the local shop, followed by lunch at a nearby restaurant. Then travel onward to Kandy, the island’s scenic highland capital surrounded by mountains, tea and spice gardens, and rich cultural heritage. On arrival, transfer to your hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Please note: The climb to the caves is on wide stone steps which are relatively even but the climb is hot and takes around 15 minutes.

Overnight in Hotel Topaz or similar.

Day 8: Kandy (B/ D)

Begin your day with an early visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth, home to Sri Lanka’s most revered Buddhist relic and steeped in centuries of tradition. After breakfast at a local restaurant or your hotel, continue with a Kandy city tour, including a stroll through the vibrant town markets. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, famed for their vast orchid collection, towering palms, and serene lakes. In the evening, enjoy a hands-on Sri Lankan cooking class followed by a relaxed group dinner. Return to your hotel for the night.

Overnight in Hotel Topaz or similar.

Day 9: Kandy to Colombo Departure (B)

After breakfast drive Colombo. On the way, stop at a tea plantation for a fascinating insight into the tea growing process in this important island industry. There is the opportunity to sample and purchase local teas. Afterwards, continue towards Colombo’s airport, where your journey ends to board a flight for your destination back home.

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