After breakfast, journey inland to Dambulla and Sri Lanka’s famed Cultural Triangle.
First, delve into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla. Home to five sanctuaries, approximately 150 Buddha statues and paintings dating back to the 1st Century BCE, this sacred temple complex has welcomed countless pilgrims over millennia. More than just an ancient gallery of religious art, the murals on these walls have been expanded and ornamented for centuries, making the complex a document of Sri Lankan culture over time, where 20th-century contributions appear of a piece with their ancient companions.
Later, check in to Jetwing Lake, your home for the next three nights. This beautiful property overlooks a stunning man-made lake created by ancient kings, surrounded by serene nature. You might like to head to the Suwa Arana Spa for a 60-minute aromatherapy full-body massage, the perfect way to unwind after your day (surcharges apply). Combining age-old healing traditions with the rich heritage of Ayurveda, this soothing treatment uses long stroke pressure designed for the calming relaxation of body, mind and soul.
This evening, enjoy dinner at The Viewing Gallery featuring a traditional Sri Lankan menu. It’s the perfect introduction to the bold, aromatic flavours that await you.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Today, rise before dawn – the reward is worth the early alarm! Make your way to the foot of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress and begin your invigorating ascent from the entrance before sunrise. Those who wish to forgo the sunrise climb to Sigiriya Rock Fortress can partake in alternative sightseeing around the base of the rock as they desire.
Standing 180 metres tall, Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed treasure, watching over the jungle from atop a solitary granite column. A testament to the mastery of 5th-century Sinhalese architects, the former palace ruins contain phenomenally well-preserved frescoes and carvings, elaborate water features, the so-called “Mirror Wall” and the gargantuan paws of a sculpted lion that once proudly guarded the entrance.
As you climb the 1,200-odd steps, watch the dense jungle fall away below you. There’s no better way to appreciate the unbridled ambition and grandeur of this site than by journeying to its summit, where you’ll stop to catch your breath and feel the warmth of the rising sun. And while the journey is half the fun, the destination is something else entirely. Here, on top of the world, your day begins.
After your memorable morning, enjoy an authentic village-style lunch and traditional cooking experience at Priyamali Gedara, then transfer to the ruins of Polonnaruwa, once the capital of Sri Lanka. Having succumbed to the passage of years and been reclaimed by nature, this garden city stands as a striking symbol of the country’s royal heritage.
Explore the hidden history of the Vatadage – an impressive circular structure built to shelter the stupa within – and the enormous Parakrama Samudraya reservoir, built during the reign of King Parakramabahu I in the 12th century. Then continue to the sacred city of Dambulla to check in for a restful evening and well-earned dinner at the hotel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. Perhaps lounge by the pool or explore the hotel’s beautiful surroundings.
Later this afternoon, heed the call of the wild and join an exhilarating afternoon safari to Minneriya National Park. On a roughly three-hour jeep journey through this wildlife sanctuary, join an expert guide in pursuit of unique and diverse fauna. Your travels are anchored by the man-made reservoir of Minneriya Wewa, constructed in the 3rd century under the rule of King Mahasena, where many animals now converge to bathe and drink.
Keep your eyes peeled for flocks of cormorants and storks, sambar deer and, of course, the park’s famous herds of grazing Asian elephants. Peaceful giants with a playful spirit, these incredible creatures number in the hundreds across Minneriya, making your safari an elephant-spotting spectacle.
Finish your evening with dinner at the hotel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 1.5 hours
This morning, savour breakfast at your hotel before you continue south, watching the scenery shift on the road to the Kandy plateau. Along the way, stop by Matale’s spice gardens, where the island’s longstanding history of spice production is evident from the complex aroma perfuming the air. Meet local spice farmers responsible for cultivating and harvesting fresh cinnamon, deep cardamom and nutmeg, warm pepper and mace, alongside soothing vanilla, therapeutic turmeric and aloe vera.
Later, arrive in Kandy, the island’s second-largest city. A renowned Buddhist pilgrimage destination, the city also has a thriving street food scene.
Check in to the Golden Crown hotel in Kandy, set amid scenic mountain ranges and the city’s timeless charm, where you’ll enjoy time at leisure before tonight’s included dinner.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 2.5 hours
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then perhaps choose to embark on a journey into the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (additional cost).
Later, continue your adventure with a Kandy city tour, exploring this historic royal capital nestled in the emerald hills of central Sri Lanka. Drive up to the Kandy View Point, perched on a hill above the city, where you’ll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Kandy Lake and the surrounding town. The lake is a thing of beauty, and an artificial creation by Sri Lanka’s last king, King Sri Wickrama Rajasingha, in 1807. Its serene waters reflect the hills and sky, creating a picturesque scene that has captivated visitors for centuries.
Wander through the city’s colonial-era streets, where British architecture mingles with traditional Kandyan buildings. Browse the bustling markets filled with handicrafts, batiks, and precious gems. This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure – perhaps visit the Royal Palace complex, stroll around the lake, or simply soak in the atmosphere of this cultural capital.
For the remainder of your time in Kandy, a raft of optional experiences present themselves. Consider a Kandy street food tour, stroll the Royal Botanical Gardens, or enjoy a live cooking demonstration at Jaide Kandy. Throughout this demonstration, guests can learn about the local ingredients, traditional techniques, and cultural significance behind each dish. Then sit down to savour these freshly prepared specialties in a charming local setting, understanding exactly how each element creates these iconic flavours.
The rest of the evening is at leisure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 mins
This morning, venture into tea country on a scenic train journey through the central hills (subject to availability). Along one of the world’s most beloved railways, turn your senses to the easy mountain breeze for the first whispers of aromatic tea. With the train’s rhythmic rumble underfoot, watch rolling hills of tea leaves unfurl as locals work the verdant fields. In the highlands, this eruption of colour and perfume sets the scene for a country defined by fragrant crops and timeless tradition.
In the foothills of Pidurutalagala, Sri Lanka’s tallest mountain, the historic English hill station of Nuwara Eliya welcomes travellers with tranquil streets. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel for a restful afternoon’s reprieve. Lavish, old-world charm and lush Sri Lankan scenery set the stage for The Grand Hotel. With nearly 200 years of heritage, and an unbeatable location near landscaped Victoria Park, this stay is a centrepiece to the town – just look at the painterly manicured lawns and Elizabethan architectural features.
With timeless design comes timeless quality. A sleek, temperature-controlled indoor pool, plus a blissful array of wellness treatments at the Grand Spa have you sorted during downtime, while the rooms’ calm, natural tones evoke a pleasant home-away-from-home warmth.
Tonight, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Travel time: Train and driving – approx. four hours
After breakfast, embark on a journey into the heart of Ceylon tea country. Sri Lanka’s love affair with tea began in 1867, and today it remains the country’s principal export – a legacy that has shaped the landscape, culture, and economy of these misty highlands.
Your morning begins with a visit to a working tea estate, where you’ll gain hands-on insight into every stage of tea production. Start in the verdant plantations, where endless rows of tea bushes carpet the rolling hills in vibrant green. Try your hand at tea plucking alongside experienced workers, learning the art of selecting only the finest two leaves and a bud.
This afternoon, consider an optional high tea experience at the Grand Hotel (or Jetwing St. Andrew’s Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, based on availability).
Return to the hotel for dinner and enjoy the rest of the evening at leisure. Perhaps take a stroll through the town, exploring its colonial architecture, or simply relax by the fireplace with a good book and a cup of that excellent tea you’ve been learning about all day.
Travel time: Train – approx. one hour
Today you’ll travel to Galle, where you will check in to the elegant, ocean-facing five-star retreat Le Grand Galle.
Tonight, an optional dinner (surcharges apply) presents as something truly special. Step into the home kitchen of Shahira, a local legend, for an intimate cooking experience and an authentic Sri Lankan meal.
Alternatively, stroll the streets of Galle Fort to discover something more exotic. There are plenty of options around every corner – just ask your friendly hotel staff for the best local recommendations.
Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours
This morning, set out to explore Galle, Sri Lanka’s oldest seaport, important in trade. Embark on an enlightening guided walk through historic Galle Fort, taking a comprehensive look at the storied past and vibrant present that make it a living monument of Sri Lankan heritage.
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Galle Fort is a sprawling 16th-century fortification built by the Portuguese, later expanded by the Dutch and British. From the 150-year-old Galle Lighthouse and the Dutch Reformed Church – a Protestant church dating back over 350 years – to the National Maritime Museum, housed in a vast old spice warehouse, and the 25-metre-tall Galle Clock Tower, your walk behind these walls takes you through colonial history, culminating in a stroll along the oceanside ramparts.
Nearer to the shore, watch the fishing boats roll in and offload their catches. Whether you want to get up close and personal or stand back to observe the smiling mariners at work, witness the heart of Sri Lanka’s acclaimed seafood scene unfolding before your eyes.
Today’s optional experiences include a lavish four-course lunch at The Merchant Galle Fort, where modern cuisine meets historic charm. For dinner, an optional meal at Smoke & Bitters presents on the island’s dreamy southern coast. Not only a hit with global travellers, you know there’s something special at play when the locals love it too.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
After a slow and steady breakfast, journey along the coast to Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, via Bentota, to Colombo.
Upon arrival and check-in at The Kingsbury Colombo. Then, if your legs will allow, head out into this bustling city to make sense of everything you’ve seen and connect the lush hills of Sri Lanka with the country’s beating heart.
The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Your final full day in Sri Lanka is in your hands. You might like to embrace the city’s best flavous with a guided street good tour through Colombo’s vibrant markets, or set out on a guided tuk tuk tour balancing national icons with hidden neighbourhood gems (additional cost).
The day’s activities only serve to build an appetite ahead of a marvellous farewell dinner at GINI restaurant.
Melbourne-trained head chef Surith Adhihetty leads the crew of dazzling GINI, Sri Lanka’s hottest new live-fire cooking restaurant. A stylish outdoor kitchen with tastefully minimal design, GINI leads with its superb fine-dining menu. In its welcoming atmosphere, you can’t help but notice the shimmer of something special. Far from the transactional service of busier lands, the intimate setting spotlights Sri Lanka’s characteristically generous hospitality – an exchange, an exploration and an honest-to-goodness experience.
With an appetising array of fresh seafood and vegetable dishes, your final dinner takes you from tempting starters to creative and classic mains, rounded out by the comforting sweetness of GINI’s top-tier desserts.
By turns unfussy and fantastically finessed, GINI distils Sri Lanka’s best qualities in a menu worth crossing the seas for.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 mins
Bid goodbye to your driver-guide as your once-in-a-lifetime journey through Sri Lanka comes to a close. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your flight home.
Departure & Transfers:
Checkout on your final day is at 12pm. Your transfer will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 minutes