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Explore this destination in a new way

This Sri Lanka holiday offers a superb combination of culture and nature. You will visit the fascinating ruins of the great ancient cities of Sri Lanka and its glorious Buddhist temples. The astounding beauty and diversity of the Sri Lankan countryside will overflow your senses throughout your trip as you drive through lush tea plantations and rural villages.

In Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya and Kandy you will learn more about the rich history of the island, from its Sinhalese kingdoms to era of British colonisation. This Sri Lanka holiday will continuously amaze you with highlights such as Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura, ancient capitals of the island, but also with unique experiences such as a cruise around Bentota Lagoon.

The charms of Sri Lanka will ensure that this Sri Lanka holiday will live for a long time in your memory. The warmth of the people and the varied and stunning landscapes will enchant all members of the family

Day 1

First moments in Sri Lanka

“Ayubowan”! Your Sri Lanka holiday begins now! As you set foot in Sri Lanka you will be welcomed by a wave of heat and the Sri Lankan charm. Your driver will meet you at the airport and bring you to Anuradhapura where you will spend your first night in Sri Lanka. Enjoy the drive into northern Sri Lanka, taking in the beautiful scenery and lush greenery. Upon arrival at your hotel, settle down and relax after your long day of travelling. Explore the local area or simply spend time at your hotel before turning in for the night.

Day 2

Exploring the ancient capital of Sri Lanka

After breakfast, you will drive towards the site of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka’s eight UNESCO World Heritage sites. Explore the ruins of the ancient city, venturing around and discovering Sri Lanka’s history and charm down every path you take. Be sure not to miss the Sri Maha Bodhi and if you think you can manage it, climb the thousand steps to the top of the sacred hill of Mihintale. At the end of the day drive towards Sigiriya where you will spend the night.

Day 3

Discovering Sri Lanka's ancient capital

After breakfast at the hotel, meet your driver who will take you to Polonnaruwa, an ancient royal city of Sri Lanka, and the second capital of Sri Lanka after the destruction of Anuradhapura in 993. To enjoy the visit at your own pace, you will explore the site by bicycle, visiting the palace, the royal baths, the market, the temple and the reclining Buddha. After touring the ancient city, you can head to Minneriya National Park for a Jeep safari or enjoy a traditional lunch in the paddy fields before going back to the hotel to relax and enjoy its facilities.

Day 4

From Pidurangala rock to Kandy

Start your day early to catch the first light from the top of Pidurangala rock. Walk through the temple at the base and start climbing the rock until you reach the peak. Once there, take a deep breath and enjoy the astonishing view of the famous Lion’s Rock (Sigiriya) and the surrounding landscape. After this short morning hike, join your driver and take the road towards Kandy. On the way, you can stop and visit a spice garden or Nalanda Gedige Temple. Arriving in Kandy, settle in your hotel and relax.

Day 5

Colonial Kandy

Kandy is a beautiful city with much to offer, whether you are looking to relax, explore or learn more about religion and culture in Sri Lanka. After breakfast, spend the morning exploring Kandy, the last capital of the Sinhalese Kingdom. You can stroll around the lake and enjoy the fresh air and misty mountains that surround this beautiful city, or visit the bustling markets. In the afternoon, take your seat and enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance show after which you will gather with the locals at the Temple of the Tooth for the evening ceremony. Return to your hotel in the evening for dinner.

Day 6

Landscapes

After a relaxing morning in Kandy you set off towards Nuwara Eliya. Along the way, you can see the landscape changing, with more and more tea plantations the further south you go. On the way you can stop at Ramboda Falls, a beautiful waterfall surrounded by lush vegetation. When you arrive in Nuwara Eliya, you will notice that the weather is slightly chillier. Usually called “Little England”, this city has kept a strong English feeling. Why not go for a high tea or a nice refreshing walk around the lake before having dinner at the hotel?

Day 7

Free day in 'Little England'

Today, wake up at a leisurely pace and enjoy a relaxing morning at the hotel. You have a free day to explore the hotel grounds, go for a walk in the surrounding countryside or just snuggle up in your comfortable hotel room, watching the mist roll in and sipping a cup of the finest blends of Sri Lankan tea. If you wish, a variety of activities can be organized for you from hiking, cycling, golfing, temple excursions or a visit to a nearby tea plantation to learn about Sri Lanka’s famous Ceylon tea.

Day 8

From the lush tea plantations to the coast

After breakfast your will be met by your driver who will take you to Bentota, a quiet town on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. You will pass through countless villages, beautiful landscapes and small towns which, untouched by tourism, are a true reflection of the authenticity and charm of Sri Lanka. Among those cities is Ratnapura, the perfect place to learn more about gems in Sri Lanka. Once you reach Bentota you will check in to your hotel and have the rest of the day at leisure to explore this coastal city or simply relax before dinner.

Day 9

Cruising on the lagoon

After breakfast at your hotel, climb aboard a private speedboat with your local guide and let him show you around Bentota Lagoon. He will explain all the secrets of cinnamon cultivation in Sri Lanka and teach you more about the amazing fauna of the area. Keep your eyes open to admire the great variety of birds flying over you and try to spot some exotic fish and even crocodiles! Share a traditional lunch with a local family and enjoy the sunset on the lagoon after this exciting day discovering Sri Lankan culture and meeting the locals.

Day 10

Last hours on the island of wonders

Depending on the time of your departure flight from Bandaranaike International Airport, you may be able to spend the morning relaxing at your hotel in Bentota or even visiting Colombo for some last-minute sightseeing and souvenir shopping. Your driver will transfer you to the airport where we will bid you farewell whilst you recount your favorite holiday stories. We look forward to welcoming you back for your next Asian adventure!

Travel conditions

Included in the price
Not included in the price

Government taxes and service taxes.
Transfers by private car (2 passengers)
Accommodation as mentioned in the program in a double room.
Meals: the price includes accommodations in half-board basis, lunch on day 9
Included activities: Anuradhapura site and the Sri Mahabodhi, Polonnaruwa site and the bike rental, Pidurangala rock, the traditional dances show, the Tooth temple, the cruise in Madu Ganga

Visa fees and bank charges.
International airport taxes.
International flights.
The services of a national guide. Rate varies according to the number of days and sites.
Tips. They are part of the culture of the country (the locals themselves are used to giving it)
Drinks and personal expenses.
Fees for optional entrances, excursions and activities.
Lunch and dinners, except on day 9 included
Repatriation assistance.
Anything that is not listed in the "Price includes" section.

Garance Travel Expert Sri Lanka Perfect for first-timers to Sri Lanka, and those looking for a unique experience in Asia. This Sri Lanka holiday will allow you to discover this beautiful island and all it has to offer, from ancient ruins to Buddhist temples and lush tea plantations. You will be traveling through the country visiting incredible places and meeting wonderfully kind people. Book today and make your Sri Lankan holiday a dream come true!

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Discover Sri Lanka’s Charms

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