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Classic Island Tour of Sri Lanka
16 days from £8,745 for 2023 per person
Our classic tour of Sri Lanka is the perfect introduction to this beautiful country and ticks all the boxes for a first-time visitor. This in-depth tour encompasses the Cultural Triangle of the north, the hill country town of Kandy and lush tea plantations, thrilling wildlife experiences in Yala National Park, the golden sands of the southern coast and the historical town of Galle.
Begin with the highlights of the Cultural Triangle in the north, including the sacred city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and the 4th century BC cradle of Buddhism, the exquisite rock sculptures of Buddha at the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa, and the picturesque town of Kandy with its wonderful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, nicknamed the ‘Kew of Kandy’, and the famous Temple of the Tooth.
Take a leisurely route through the centre of the island, meandering up to the High Country and relax on a charming tea plantation.The 145-year old Thotalagala is one of our favourites and gives travellers a luxury taste of life on a tea estate. Driving further south into the lush Sri Lankan jungle visit Yala National Park for some of the best wildlife and birdlife experiences in Asia.
Driving down to the coast take the coastal road due west, stopping at Weligama for some relaxation and a chance to soak up the Sri Lankan sun. The historical fort of Galle makes for a fantastic stop, brimming with boutique cafes and galleries. The final stop of this tour will be a day spend sightseeing and shopping in the exciting city of Colombo.
This is purely a suggested itinerary, it can be booked as it is or used as a starting point for creating your own luxury tailor-made holiday to Sri Lanka. If you'd like to see similar tours, take a look at our favourite Epic Journeys and Family Holidays, as well as our Beach Holidays, Active Trips, and Wildlife & Safari in Asia collections.
Itinerary details
16 days from £8,745 for 2023 per person
- Day 1 - Ulagalla - Anuradhapura
On arrival, your driver will take you to Sigiriya in the Cultural Triangle. - Day 2 - Ulagalla - Anuradhapura
Day exploring Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. - Day 3 - Ulagalla - Anuradhapura
Day exploring Anuradhapura and the cave temples at Dambulla. - Day 4 - Heritance Kandalama - Kandalama
Day at leisure. - Day 5 - Stone House Lodge - Kandy
Drive to Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth and Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. - Day 6 - Thotalagala - Haputale
Drive to Haputale. Afternoon visit to Dambatenne bungalow with afternoon tea. - Day 7 - Thotalagala - Haputale
Today explore the Horton Plains. - Day 8 - Leopard Trails, Yala - Yala National Park
Drive to Yala National Park. Afternoon game drive. - Day 9 - Leopard Trails, Yala - Yala National Park
Morning and afternoon game drives. - Day 10 - Cape Weligama - Weligama
Drive to Weligama. Afternoon at leisure. - Day 11 - Cape Weligama - Weligama
Day at leisure. - Day 12 - Cape Weligama - Weligama
Day at leisure. - Day 13 - Amangalla - Galle
Drive to Galle. Afternoon sightseeing in Galle Fort. - Day 14 - Amangalla - Galle
Day at leisure. - Day 15 - Galle Face Hotel - Colombo
Spend the day sightseeing and shopping in Colombo. - Day 16 - In transit.
Transfer to Colombo for flight home.
Places of Interest
AccommodationI can't think of anything that excites a greater sense of childlike wonder than to be in a country where you are ignorant of almost everything.
Bill Bryson
