Classic Sri Lanka
Summary
This 16-day itinerary is perfect for those wishing to explore the major cultural highlights and sights of this beautiful country from the wonders of Sigiriya, Dambulla and Kandy, to the attractions of Nuwara Eliya and Galle. A private vehicle with driver/guide is included throughout, allowing the flexibility and luxury of also being able to see some of the lesser-known areas.
Duration |
16 Days
Price
From $4,554.00 per person based on two people sharingBest time to go
Sri Lanka is a year round destination depending on which side of the island you choose. The South West and North East have different weather patterns, but the peak time for the best weather is December to mid-April. Travelling in the shoulder seasons, particularly July to August has many advantages.
Day 1: UK Departure
Overnight flight to Colombo.
Day 2: The Park Street Hotel (BB)
Upon arrival you'll be transferred by private vehicle to the Park Street Hotel to check in for your overnight stay. In the afternoon you'll have the chance to enjoy a private half day city tour of Colombo.
Day 3: Jetwing Vil Uyana (BB)
Travel by private vehicle to Yapahuwa, one of the capitals of medieval Sri Lanka and onwards to Sigiriya where you check into the rustic yet luxurious Jetwing Vil Uyana which will be your base for the next five nights.
Day 4: Jetwing Vil Uyana (BB)
Today, you'll have the chance to undertake some cultural exploration. You'll visit the famous preserved ruins of Anuradhapura, one of the oldest continuously-inhabited cities in the world and one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. In the afternoon travel to Mihintale, an important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
Day 5: Jetwing Vil Uyana (BB)
Today you will get to delve into Sri Lanka's culture and history with a visit to the well preserved remains of the archaeological city of Polonnaruwa.
Day 6: Jetwing Vil Uyana (BB)
Enjoy more cultural exploration by visiting the Buddhist monastery of Ritigala, which dates back to the 1st Century BC and where there also are over 70 caves which were used as dwellings by the earliest inhabitants of Sri Lanka.
Day 7: Jetwing Vil Uyana (BB)
Today is sure to be a highlight of your trip as you'll get the chance to climb the 5th Century Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the country’s most memorable single attraction. Enjoy a traditional village visit in the afternoon, including a bullock cart ride, cookery demonstration and typical curry and rice lunch.
Day 8: The Kandy House (BB)
Visit the most impressive of cave temples at Dambulla before viewing the spice garden at Matale, enjoy a massage before continuing on to Kandy. The next three nights will be spent at The Kandy House.
Day 9: The Kandy House (BB)
Today you will enjoy a private city tour of Kandy, a lively and exciting city with so much to see.
Day 10: The Kandy House (BB)
In the morning visit the three temples of Gadaladeniya, Lankathilaka and Embekke and continue after lunch to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, renowned for their collection of over 300 varieties of orchids, spices, medicinal plants and palm trees.
Day 11: Ceylon Tea Trails (FB)
Travel on the Expo Rail train to Nanu Oya and continue by road to Nuwara Eliya, or ‘Little England’ as it is affectionately known. Check into the Ceylon Tea Trails where you spend the next two nights.
Day 12: Ceylon Tea Trails (FB)
Spend a day at leisure at the hotel and enjoy its facilities or perhaps choose to venture out with private driver to the surrounding tea plantations.
Day 13: Chaaya Wild Yala (BB)
Visit Buduruwagala – ‘the rock with the statue of Buddha’ - now considered the tallest in the world, before continuing to the Yala National Park to enjoy an exciting jeep safari. You'll spend the night at the Chaaya Wild Yala.
Day 14: Aditya Hotel Resort (BB)
Today you'll visit a monastery while en-route to Galle, upon arrival you'll then enjoy a city tour. Your final two nights will be spent at Aditya Hotel Resort.
Day 15: Aditya Hotel Resort (BB)
Your final full day will be one at leisure to relax on the beach after all the previous exploration, or maybe opt to take a yoga lesson.
Day 16: Departure
Transfer by private vehicle to Colombo airport and depart on your flight to the UK.
Inclusions
All flights, transfers, meals, accommodation and activities as specified, local English speaking guides throughout
Exclusions
Transfers, meals and activities not specified, visas, insurance, gratuities and items of a personal nature.
Cleveland Collection tailor makes all itineraries to include highlights of your choice. Speak to one of our travel experts to create your perfect holiday based on your travel requirements.
*We try to keep our 'from prices' as accurate as possible, but please do be aware that when travelling in peak times such as Christmas and school holidays, prices shown will vary considerably.