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SRI LANKA - Galle Fort Overhead 2

Galle Fort is the old part of the city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the best preserved colonial sea fortress in Asia.

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Pointe de Galle Light is an onshore lighthouse in Galle and is Sri Lanka's oldest light station.

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Sri Lanka is home to some of the best wildlife in Asia. Here you will witness enchanting birdlife, elephants, monkeys, peacocks, crocodiles, buffalo, deer, bears and the world's highest density of the elusive leopard

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Wind your way through Sri Lanka's verdant Tea Country by train to reach charming colonial-style hill stations.

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Stay within Bogawantalwa Valley's mist-shrouded tea plantations.

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Tea Trails 3
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Overlook the mesmerising Castlereagh lake from up high at Dunkeld Bungalow, the latest addition to the Ceylon Tea Trails.

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Take in the phenomenal views over Sri Lanka's rolling hills from Thotalagala's prime position in Haputale.

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SRI LANKA - Knuckles Mountain Range Sri Lanka

Venture into the wickedly named Knuckles Mountains! These thick forested mountains are perfect for those who love to hike, mountain bike or explore local villages and discover waterfalls. The flora and fauna is impressive and there are many species of mammals found amongst these forests including elephants, giant squirrels and leopards.

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SRI LANKA - Amanwella.

Base yourself at the Amanwella in Tangalle, a super slick, James Bond-esque beach resort located in the fishing village of Tangalle.

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During a stay at Amangalla, explore the historic town of Galle by foot, passing friendly locals as you go.

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SRI LANKA - Yala National Park - leopard

Head to Yala National Park to witness enchanting birdlife, elephants, monkeys, peacocks, crocodiles, buffalo, deer, bears and the highest density in the world of the elusive leopard

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SRI LANKA - Heritance Kandalama

Join wandering elephants at Heritance Kandalama, an architectural marvel of a hotel enveloped in vegetation and the centrepiece of the Geoffrey Bawa pilgrimage route.

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Go whale watching in Mirissa and Weligama Bay to see these magnificent creatures leaping in and out of the ocean.

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Be treated to great service at luxury hotels like Kahanda Kanda, our favourite boutique hotel in Galle.

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We highly recommend the luxury eco-resort of Ulagalla, which is within easy reach of the attractions of the Cultural Triangle.

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Sri Lanka -Dambulla Caves

Enter another world at the wildly atmospheric Dambulla Caves, Sri Lanka's most extraordinary cave temple complex.

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The extraordinary ancient city of Polonnaruwa was the island's medieval capital between the 11th and 13th century.

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SRI LANKA - Polonnaruwa

Visit the extraordinary ancient city of Polonnaruwa, which was the island's medieval capital between the 11th and 13th century.

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Bask in the Sri Lankan sun at The Last House in Tangalle, under the shade of frangipani trees.

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Sri Lanka - Perahera Festival

Visit during the spectacular Perahera Festival in Kandy, which comprises of ten nights of lively festivities, involving bejewelled elephants, street dancers and drummers.

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Sri Lanka - Perahera Festival (1)
Take in the Perahera Festival at the Temple of the Tooth, Sri Lanka's most holy Buddhist temple where it is said that Buddha's tooth is buried 24/37
SRI LANKA - Kahanda Kanda living room bar

Kahanda Kanda near Galle is one of Sri Lanka's chicest addresses and a wonderfully stylish spot for an arak sour at the living room bar

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SRI LANKA - Jaffna local swimming pool
Cool off in Jaffna by visiting a local swimming pool 26/37
SRI LANKA - Sigiriya Rock

Take in the exhilarating views from the top of Sigiriya Rock

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SRI LANKA - Kids at Dambulla

Make friends with smiley local school kids playing at Dambulla cave temple

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SRI LANKA - Tangalle market

Soak up the sights, smells and smiles at Tangalle food market which takes place once a week

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SRI LANKA - Castlereagh Lake views (1)

Castlereagh Lake in Sri Lanka's central Tea Country, a stone's throw from one of her chicest boutique bungalows, Castlereagh, which is part of the Ceylon Tea Trails.

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SRI LANKA - Amangalla roof bar

Enjoy sundowners at the Amangalla roof bar with views over the walled fort town of Galle

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SRI LANKA - Amanwella Tangalle The South Sri Lanka 18

The Amanwella’s ultra sexy 45-metre infinity pool is back by an elegant restaurant and looks out over a gorgeous coconut grove and the sea beyond. 

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SRI LANKA - Villa Bentota

Set on a former coconut plantation a stone's throw from a dazzling beach is one of Sri Lanka's most sophisticated boutique hotels: the Villa Bentota

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SRI LANKA - Amangalla Zaal

The Amangalla's Zaal is the grandest living room in Sri Lanka and the perfect location for a glamorous party - New Year's Eve celebrations here are incredible!

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SRI LANKA - Amangalla exterior, Galle, Sri Lanka, Ampersand Travel

Amangalla is steeped in history: once home to a Dutch commander and a billet for British soldiers, it has been revamped by Kerry Hill who has maintained the unique history of the building allowing you step right back to Galle’s colonial heyday.

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Sri Lanka, 20 Middle Street, Galle

Treat yourself with a stay at one of Sri Lanka's most exclusive and beautifully designed villas - 20 Middle Street, Galle - which sleeps 6 people, and is situated next door to the Amangalla.

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Discover Luxury Sri Lanka Holidays

This mango-shaped Indian Ocean island is a bountiful and spirited nation, overflowing with natural wonders, abundant wildlife, sumptuous cuisine, ancient UNESCO World Heritage sites and a rich cultural legacy. From the cool colonial Tea Country and Cultural Triangle in the country’s interior, to the curvaceous golden sands on the coast, and the plentiful national parks home to some of the best birding and wildlife in Asia, here are our recommendations for the perfect luxury tailor-made holiday in Sri Lanka.

Sri Lanka is God’s own country, matching great natural beauty with beautiful man-made creations. Formerly known as Ceylon, Sri Lanka’s relatively small size belies its enormously varied landscape and activities on offer, and our Sri Lanka holiday tours recommend something for all types of traveller. A wildlife holiday will take you through the dense jungles of Yala or Kumana National Park, home to shy leopards and wild elephants – some animal sightings even rival those in South Africa. Explore the empty caramel beaches with some beautifully boutique beach hotels on the southwest coast, perfectly secluded for a relaxing Sri Lankan beach holiday. Or discover the monasteries and temples in the north, peopled by saffron-clad monks, followed by the cool misty mountains in the hill country, contoured with verdant tea and dotted with the bright saris of pickers for an alternative luxury honeymoon. The picturesque 17th century Dutch walled fort town of Galle, described by some as the St. Tropez of Asia, offers a slower pace of life, and the busy city of Colombo is home to brilliant shopping, world-class restaurants and a bustling art scene, all making for an excellent luxury city break.

Such great variety on this small island means Sri Lanka is the perfect destination for a luxury family adventure, with plenty to occupy the whole brood. For those looking for a cultural break, our Sri Lanka tours can seamlessly combine colonial history, the legacy of the Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa, Dambulla and Anuradhapura – which form Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle – the old capital of Kandy and the hill station of Nuwara Eliya. A vast array of holiday types can be enjoyed within this country on the India Subcontinent, from family friendly trips to adventure holidays for couples or solo travellers; not to mention ultimate luxury honeymoons staying in all the best luxurious hotels.

Sri Lankans are incredibly warm and friendly, and bright smiles are everywhere – don’t be surprised if a stranger invites you home for tea or to a family meal, it’s quite normal! Travelling in Sri Lanka is very easy, and one of the best things about luxury holidays to Sri Lanka is that, due to the country’s small size, nothing is very far from anything else; as you journey through Sri Lanka, it is possible to spend the morning in the hill country watching the tea pickers at work in the colonial tea plantations, the afternoon at an ancient Buddhist temple and the evening eating seafood on the romantic southern beaches.

So, if you are still wondering where to visit in Sri Lanka, speak to one of our specialists today for the best travel advice and to start creating your ideal luxury holiday to this enchanting destination.


Our suggested tours in Sri Lanka

Ampersand’s Signature Sri Lanka Tour

Ulagalla Anuradhapura SRI LANKA 16

16 days from £7,975 for 2023

If money was no object this would be our ideal cultural tour of Sri Lanka. This in-depth tour encompasses the...

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Sri Lanka’s Sublime Aman Experience

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8 days from £5,000 for 2023

Combine the discovery of 400-year old Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the balmy seclusion of a palm-fringed...

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Sri Lanka’s Ultimate Beach Holiday

Kk Beach Galle Sri Lanka 11

13 days from £4,650 for 2023/24

Sri Lanka has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world. With palm fringed beaches and the warm waters...

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The Perfect Summer Holiday in Sri Lanka

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14 days from £6,930 for 2023

Sri Lanka's cultural charms and natural beauty make her the perfect destination for an exotic Asian honeymoon. For a relatively...

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Three Little Tastes of Heaven in Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - Amanwella resort

10 days from £5,940 for 2023

It is said that Sri Lanka was the original Garden of Eden and it only takes one visit to see...

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Sri Lanka’s Ancient History & Wildlife Wonders

Leopard Trails Yala National Park Sri Lanka 12

17 days from £11,100 for 2023

For such a small island, Sri Lanka is bursting at the seams with history, heritage, culture and wildlife. From the...

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If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka...

If Tarzan Went To Sri Lanka Itinerary

19 days from £9,405 for 2023

This tour is an Ampersand favourite! If Tarzan went to Sri Lanka we are sure that he would do something...

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Luxury Surfing in Sri Lanka

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9 days from £4,400 for 2023/24

Hit the waves in Weligama and Tangalle for the ultimate Sri Lankan surfing holiday, perfect for those who also love...

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Classic Island Tour of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - 1 Buddha

16 days from £8,745 for 2023

This in-depth tour encompasses all the major sites of the Cultural Triangle before taking a leisurely route through the centre...

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The Perfect Family Holiday to Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - Kids at Dambulla

16 days from £9,240 for 2023

Sri Lanka’s cultural charms, gorgeous looks and laid-back vibe make her the perfect island for a family holiday...

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Sri Lanka’s Natural Wildlife Wonders

Leopard Trails Yala National Park Sri Lanka 10

12 days from £6,760 for 2023

Experience the astonishing diversity and natural beauty of Sri Lanka's rivers, lakes, mountains, jungles and beaches. 

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The Most Spectacular Festival in Sri Lanka - Esala Perahera

Sri Lanka Cultural Triangle And Beach Itinerary 2

10 days from £5,280 for 2023

This variety packed tour gives you an in depth insight into what Sri Lanka is all about. Take part in...

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Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle & Beach

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14 days from £7,260 for 2023

This tour offers both an insightful view to Sri Lanka's history as well a relaxing coastal break enjoying the island's...

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Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle & The Maldives

Constance Moofushi The Maldives Ampersand Travel 10

15 days from £8,635 for 2023

This fabulous tour allows a mix of culture and sheer bliss. Visit Sri Lanka's historical cultural triangle before flying to...

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Golfing in Sri Lanka

Golfing In Sri Lanka Itinerary 3

10 days from £4,895 for 2023

With its exceptional golf courses, scenery and luxury hotels, Sri Lanka is a superb destination for golf-loving explorers – from...

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Geoffrey Bawa; An Architectural Tour of Sri Lanka

SRI LANKA - Lunuganga Sri Lanka

13 days from £6,600 for 2023

This tour draws pure inspiration from the late and talented architect, Geoffrey Bawa and visits the places he lived in,...

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Cheeky Monkeys, Blue Whales and King Coconuts… Family Fun in Sri Lanka

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16 days from £7,425 for 2023

This itinerary was created for families young or old who love little adventures and wildlife. It is the perfect way...

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Grand Colonial Tour of Asia: India, Sri Lanka, Burma, Vietnam & Singapore

Grand Colonial Tour Of Asia 13

14 days from £10,780 for 2023

Experience Asia's diverse colonial heritage on this whirlwind tour designed for those with an interest in colonial history and architecture.

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Some of our favourite hotels in Sri Lanka

Ulagalla ,
Anuradhapura

Ulagalla Anuradhapura SRI LANKA 16

  Ulagalla is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Eco Retreats. Arguably the top property in Anuradhapura, this sophisticated hotel is formed...

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Lunuganga ,
Galle

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The life’s work of Sri Lanka’s starred architect Geoffery Bawa, Lunuganga is both moving and magical. An ideal place to...

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Hilton Yala ,
Yala National Park

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Amid the lush tropical forest, Hilton Yala provides a luxurious holiday experience on the southern edge of Yala National Park....

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Maniumpathy ,
Colombo

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Set in a prime position in the leafy Colombo 7 district, Maniumpathy is one of Ampersand's favourite boutique hotels in Sri Lanka. This wonderful...

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Gal Oya Lodge ,
Gal Oya National Park

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  Gal Oya Lodge is one of Ampersand's Top 10 Eco Retreats. Just outside the remote and almost forgotten Gal Oya National Park lies...

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Thotalagala ,
Haputale

Thotalagala Haputale Sri Lanka 5

There is something to be said about the importance of historical significance at Thotalagala, one of the first and most...

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Some of our favourite places of interest in Sri Lanka

Sigiriya

SRI LANKA - Sigiriya Monks Lion Rock

There are few more iconic, let alone impressive, sights in Sri Lanka than the 370-metre-high rock citadel of Sigiriya, a protected UNESCO...

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Yala National Park

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For centuries, Yala National Park has been revered as an unparalleled testament to the beauty of Sri Lanka’s wilderness and...

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Wilpattu National Park

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Located on the north west of the island, Wilpattu is the oldest and largest National Park in Sri Lanka, stretching...

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Bogawantalawa Valley

SRI LANKA - Castlereagh Reservoir Tea Trails Sri Lanka 2

The Bogawantalawa Valley lies within the lush emerald-green Central Highlands of Sri Lanka and is known as ‘the Golden Valley...

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Gal Oya National Park

Gal Oya Lodge Gal Oya Sri Lanka 19

Buried deep in the middle-eastern wilderness of Sri Lanka, Gal Oya National Park has some of the most striking landscapes in...

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Kitulgala

Rafters Retreat Kitulgala Sri Lanka

Kitulgala - which is named after the sago palms that surround it - is in the low hills to the...

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Related Blog Posts

Read some of our hand-picked blog posts for Sri Lanka


Client Testimonials

I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

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