Calling lovers of luxury, cycle enthusiasts and dedicated foodies! These are the best ways to explore the Jewel of the Indian Ocean.
Sri Lanka is a world away from worlds, an island of sprawling tea plantations, golden beaches, ancient temples and thrilling waterways. Embracing the spirit of this paradise has never been easier with tours now zeroing in on specific themes, so you can follow the aroma of ancient spices, realign your chakras, cycle along breathtaking ridges, or lap up the luxury of exclusive small-group tours.
Read on to discover five very different ways to experience Sri Lanka on a tour.
The classic tour
First time in Sri Lanka? You'll want to reach all the best destinations at least once, both to find your bearings and discover first-hand what your Sri Lanka travel style is – where to return to, what to recommend to others, and how best to travel. Make the most of your time with a highlights tour that captures the essence of the country. Join a small-group expedition, limited to 16 adventurers, to uncover iconic landmarks, discover age-old traditions and say hello to an elephant or two! Ascend the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress ruins, delve into the Golden Cave Temple in Dambulla, and wander through the corridors of the historic Galle Fort. Harvest tea in the central hills, search for Sri Lankan leopards on safari and embrace Ayurvedic treatments along the way. Extend your escape to the pristine Maldives, where crystal-clear waters and serene vistas await at the luxurious Cinnamon Velifushi Maldives.
The foodie tour
The colours, aromas and flavours of traditional Sri Lankan cuisine are a natural drawcard for eager foodies. Taste fiery curries, tangy sambol and delicious hopper pancakes. Taste the best of the country on this nine-day small-group tour, discovering hidden gem hangouts and respected restaurants in Colombo, Dambulla, Kandy and Galle. Go from the vibrant spice gardens of Matala to the acclaimed culinary delights of Colombo's The Beach Wadiya for a true cross-section of Sri Lankan cuisine.
The wellness tour
Connect to nature through movement and age-old wellness traditions with an eight-day tour of Sri Lanka’s central hills. Engage in a transformative journey that will invigorate body and mind, starting with the exploration of the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple and the awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Have time to reflect at some of Sri Lanka's most restorative retreats, including the poolside villas of Uga Ulagalla and the mountainside Santani Wellness Kandy. Start each morning and evening with Hatha yoga practice and embark on a personalised wellness journey, with cedar sauna sessions and thermal saltwater baths complemented by nourishing gourmet meals, fresh juices and herbal teas.
The luxury tour
Luxury travel offers access to Sri Lanka’s most-loved historic sites and hidden landscapes without forgoing comforts of high-end transportation and five-star hotels. In a destination as picture-perfect as Sri Lanka, there’s no shortage of luxury experiences. Discover the rich tapestry of the country’s cultural and natural wonders while travelling in style on an exclusive small-group luxury tour. Take the scenic train journey through tea country to Ella; search for native animals on safari in the sprawling Yala National Park and dive into Sri Lanka’s dazzling history during a guided gem-cutting experience. Along the way, you’ll enjoy the convenience of private transportation and stay in style at grand hotels.
The cycling tour
There’s no better way to get to the green heart of Sri Lanka than through two-wheeled pedal power. Leafy tea plantations, verdant hills, crashing surf and national parks form diverse terrain that’s as challenging to cycle as it is rewarding. Weave your way from Kandy to Ella, Yala and Galle on this cycling tour, then pedal to the coast via Yala National Park, where elusive leopards and majestic elephants await. Rest and recover on the beaches of Yala before learning more about the country’s history in Galle.
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