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Insider Series: 13-Day Culinary Sri Lanka Tour Co-Curated by Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan
From  US$3,656 /person
Twin room

Insider Series: 13-Day Culinary Sri Lanka Tour Co-Curated by Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan

Operated by: Luxury Escapes Tours
Book up until  
Overview
Tour style: Premium
13 days
12 places
1 country
16 people max.
12+ yrs
active
Fully Guided Tour
5 star hotels
Secure with US$199 deposit
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Twin room
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Call 888 337 2083
About the Tour
Your tour takes you to:
Negombo
Colombo
Dambulla
Sigiriya
Polonnaruwa
Dambulla
Minneriya
Dambulla
Matale
Kandy
Nanuoya
Nuwara Eliya
Galle
Bentota
Colombo

Aromatic spice gardens, fragrant tea fields and authentic street food: curated with Matt and Gary’s insider expertise, this itinerary captures their vision for an unforgettable adventure. While they won’t be joining in person, Luxury Escapes’ expert local guides will bring each day to life – the ones who know every back alley, hidden market, and family recipe.

With seven first-class Insider Experiences included, you’re all set for the Sri Lanka of a lifetime. Enjoy dinner at one of the island’s most elegant restaurants, Colombo’s Gini – where every dish, each showcasing the island’s magnificent produce, is kissed by fire before plating. Sample showstopping cocktails and wood-smoked fare at Matt and Gary’s beloved Smoke & Bitters before learning the secrets of Sri Lankan home cooking with local legend Shahira (“a magical cook and teacher,” says Gary Mehigan).

From a guided tour of Kandy’s legendary food markets to a masterfully presented four-course dining experience at The Merchant Galle Fort and lunch at Geoffrey Bawa’s spectacular Lunuganga estate (“every space, angle and vista will leave you wishing it’s yours,” says Gary Mehigan), every meal tells a story. Finish your adventure by cracking into multi-award-winning seafood at Ministry of Crab, set within Colombo’s hertiage Dutch Hospital, described by Matt Preston as “one of the world’s most best-loved crab restaurants.”

Along the way, unearth ancient jungle ruins and historic fortresses. Learn how to prepare a traditional meal in a local village, then take a scenic train into Nuwara Eliya where the masters pluck delicate Ceylon leaves in the verdant highlands. Find Asian elephants in the wilds of Minneriya National Park, then climb the 1,200 steps of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress for a truly humbling sunrise. At every turn, uncover the generosity and warm hospitality the locals are known for, sharing in their passion for flavourful food. Each stay along the way offers something special, from Le Grand Galle’s breathtaking Indian Oceanfront views to the Elizabethan manor-style elegance of The Grand Hotel, high in tea country.

This is your chance to experience Sri Lanka the way culinary insiders do, uncovering flavours and traditions off the tourist track.

Why you’ll love this tour
Insider Experience: Crack into multi-award-winning seafood at Ministry of Crab during your farewell dinner in Colombo
Insider Experience: Taste craft cocktails created with potency and flair over dinner at award-winning Smoke & Bitters
Insider Experience: Learn the secrets of Sri Lankan home cooking with local legend Shahira
Overview
Tour style: Premium
13 days
12 places
1 country
16 people max.
12+ yrs
active
Fully Guided Tour
5 star hotels
Secure with US$199 deposit
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Twin room
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Call 888 337 2083
Key Benefits of Premium Tours
Dedicated agent
Personalised support with a dedicated Tours Concierge agent
Five-star accommodation
Elevated five-star hotels to ensure enhanced comfort and quality
Max 16 travellers
A more personal and immersive experience at every destination with a maximum of 16 travellers
Choose a tour option
Base
Starts in Negombo. Ends in Colombo
Insider Series: 13-Day Culinary Sri Lanka Tour Co-Curated by Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan
13 days
12 places
1 country

Destinations: Dambulla, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Colombo, Matale, Kandy, Negombo, Minneriya, Nuwara El...

Insider Experience: Crack into multi-award-winning seafood at Ministry of Crab during your farewell dinner in Colombo
Insider Experience: Taste craft cocktails created with potency and flair over dinner at award-winning Smoke & Bitters
Insider Experience: Learn the secrets of Sri Lankan home cooking with local legend Shahira
Insider Experience: Explore Geoffrey Bawa's architectural masterpiece with a garden tour and lunch at Lunuganga, Bentota
Insider Experience: Toast to an unforgettable journey at GINI Restaurant in Colombo with sleek cooking over fire
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Includes taxes & fees
Twin room
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Selected
Extension
Starts in Negombo. Ends in Colombo
Maldives Extension with All-Inclusive Dining + Insider Series: 13-Day Culinary Sri Lanka Tour Co-Curated by Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan
17 days
13 places
2 countries
All destinations and inclusions from Base option

Destinations: Maldives

Five additional nights of luxury accommodation in a Beach Villa with Pool at Kuda Villingili Resort
One-way economy class flight from Colombo (CMB) to Malé (MLE)
Return speedboat transfers from Malé’s Velana International Airport (MLE)
15 additional meals – five breakfasts, five lunches and five dinners
Free-flow soft drinks and two alcoholic drinks per meal (lunch and dinner) at Kuda Villingili Resort
Multiple packages available
From
US$6,178 /person with 
Non-member US$6,369
Includes taxes & fees
Twin room
Valued up to US$7,636
-16%
Itinerary & map
What you'll see

Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka, the pearl of the Indian Ocean. A veritable feast of fascinating wildlife, jaw-dropping landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Sri Lanka is famous for its welcoming locals, easy pace and abiding warmth that can be found in its community and its cuisine.

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you’ll be met by your chauffeur and whisked away to the beautiful Jetwing Beach Hotel in Negombo. You might choose to explore the beachfront, take a dip in the pool or simply relax and prepare for the incredible journey ahead.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 minutes

Inclusions
Jetwing Beach Hotel (Deluxe Room)
None

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. Head to the Suwa Arana Spa for your included 60-minute aromatherapy full-body massage, the perfect way to unwind after your day. 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, gather with your fellow travellers for a welcome dinner featuring a traditional Sri Lankan barbecue at Jetwing Lake. It’s the perfect introduction to the bold, aromatic flavours that await you.

Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours

Inclusions
Jetwing Lake (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

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.

Insider Experience: Priyamali Gedara Village Lunch

This afternoon, follow in the footsteps of Matt and Gary on your first Insider Experience in Sri Lanka. The meeting point of cultures both ancient and living lies the incredible generosity present throughout Sri Lanka’s local communities. Your first stop is a village where you and your hosts will watch as the locals prepare a traditional lunch in an open-air kitchen beneath a wood-thatched roof. Time-honoured practices are shared openly, and travellers are invited to slow down, breathe deep and share in the simple pleasures.

Choose to get involved in the coal-cooking action or just observe and enjoy the ambience. Among the busy daily workings of Priyamali Gedara, you’re invited to connect with its authentic culinary heritage, then sit down to a hearty farmer’s lunch.

Sample steaming “nelum kole bath” – in which aromatic rice is served in a lotus leaf – invigorate your senses with warming curry and admire the rustic views of nearby rice paddies. Finish with a traditional dessert, biting into rich and creamy “watalappam” coconut custard or caramelly “kiri pani”, made with buffalo milk curd and palm sugar treacle.

After lunch, 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

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Priyamali Gedara Village Lunch

“Don’t miss out on the wild mango curry. Assuming the forest monkeys haven’t stripped the trees, it’s delicious” – Matt Preston

“A fun local experience giving you a fabulous insight into authentic Sri Lankan flavours full of colour and texture” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
Jetwing Lake (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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

Inclusions
Jetwing Lake (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

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.

Insider Experience: Kandy Markets – Street Food Tour with Lunch

Once you’ve checked in, step out to tour the ebb and flow of Kandy’s markets, where moreish sweet-and-sour achcharu – spicy vegetables in a punchy pickled sauce – juicy seasonal fruits and refreshing king coconut water beckon. Mingle with the market regulars over fresh hoppers or spice-fuelled kottu served with tangy chutneys. Go in for South Indian dishes too, from buttery ghee dosa to savoury “ulundu vadai” fritters – there’s a story behind every morsel, and a passionate local ready to highlight each in turn.

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

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Kandy Markets – Street Food Tour with Lunch

“This is a real local market where I always find something I’ve never tried before. Last time it was sapphire-blue olives (nil veratu). Totally unique” – Matt Preston

“I love this market, its alive and exciting and bustling with locals, busy traders vying for business and produce that an enthusiastic foodie may never even seen before” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
The Golden Crown Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel, then embark on a journey into the spiritual heart of Sri Lanka with a visit to the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa). This temple is not just a religious site; it’s the soul of the nation, housing one of Buddhism’s most precious relics: a tooth of Lord Buddha, enshrined within seven golden caskets.

As you enter the temple complex, you’ll be enveloped by the scent of incense and the rhythmic sounds of traditional drumming. Join hundreds of devotees as they make offerings of lotus flowers, light oil lamps, and bow in reverence before the inner sanctum. The temple itself is a masterpiece of Kandyan architecture, with its golden roof gleaming above ornate pillars and intricate woodcarvings. This is a place of profound peace and devotion, which is a window into the spiritual traditions that have shaped Sri Lankan culture for more than 2,000 years.

Continue 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.

Tonight, become immersed in Sri Lankan culinary culture with an interactive dining experience at Jaide Kandy. Watch as skilled chefs perform a live cooking demonstration, preparing three of Sri Lanka’s most beloved dishes right before your eyes. First, witness the creation of Coconut Roti. Watch the dough being expertly kneaded with freshly grated coconut before being cooked on a hot griddle until golden and aromatic. Next comes the art of making hoppers (Appam) – those bowl-shaped fermented rice pancakes that are a breakfast staple across the island. You’ll see how the batter is swirled in a small wok to create the signature crispy edges and soft, spongy centre. Watch as both plain and egg hoppers are prepared. The grand finale is Kottu Roti – arguably Sri Lanka’s most famous street food. Listen to the rhythmic clanging of metal blades on the hot griddle as the chef chops and stir-fries shredded flatbread with vegetables, egg, and spices in a mesmerising display of skill and speed. The sound alone is enough to make your mouth water.

Throughout the demonstration, 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.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 mins

Inclusions
The Golden Crown Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

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 blissful array of wellness treatments at the Grand Spa have you sorted during down time, 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

Inclusions
The Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

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.

Insider Experience: Tea Tour & Tasting at Damro Estate

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, step back in time with a traditional high tea experience at either 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

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Tea Tour & Tasting at Damro Estate

“Damro make my favourite Ceylon tea – BOP Pure Ceylon – grab me a box while your there!” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
The Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

After breakfast, checkout and make the six-hour journey to Galle, where you will check in to the elegant, ocean-facing five-star retreat Le Grand Galle (stopping along the way for an included lunch at a local restaurant).

Insider Experience: At Home with Shahira – Ceylon Soul Dinner

Tonight’s dinner is something truly special. Step into the home kitchen of Shahira, a local legend, for an intimate cooking experience and an authentic Sri Lankan meal. Learn the secrets behind perfectly spiced biryani (a beloved local delicacy in Galle), master the art of curry powder blending, and discover techniques you’ll use for years to come. Throughout the night, enjoy an immersive cooking session covering a variety of Sri Lanka’s most beloved local dishes, showcasing the island’s extraordinary culinary diversity. Shahira Mahuroof is a master of southern Sri Lankan cuisine; with her guidance you’ll be a pro in no time.

Travel time: Driving – approx. six hours

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: At Home with Shahira – Ceylon Soul Dinner

“I’m a big fan of Shahira’s home cooking… and the simple, tasty and achievable recipes you’ll leave with. Make sure you pick some roasted and unroasted Sri Lankan curry powder at a local supermarket…” says Matt Preston.

“Shahira is a magical cook and natural teacher. The best food in Sri Lanka, quite honestly, is found at home. She will cleverly reveal the secrets and recipes of delicious Sri Lankan food that I’m sure will make regular appearances on your own family table” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
Le Grand Galle (Signature Room)
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

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.

Insider Experience: Lunch at The Merchant Galle Fort

Enjoy a sophisticated four-course set menu at this elegant restaurant within the fort walls, where modern cuisine meets historic charm. Drawing inspiration from southern Sri Lanka’s abundance of delicious dishes, dine either indoor (among the restaurant’s rattan lampshades, seashell-laden tablemats and quiet ambiance) or al fresco in the restaurant’s wonderful courtyard space.

Enjoy time to relax at the hotel before dinner.

Insider Experience: Dinner at Smoke & Bitters

Named one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars in 2023, this much-beloved cocktail bar and smokehouse sits pretty 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. Dedicated to spotlighting local spirits and Sri Lankan ingredients, Don Ranasinghe and Sameera Gayan provide a balance of unpretentious atmosphere and mixological mastery – deftly struck as the flavours in their signature drinks.

From potent rum- and arrack-centred Pamuditha’s Punch to the smoking spectacle of a chai-spiced Old & Smoked – prepared with arrack and Ceylon bitters – the showmanship on display here is sure to draw out a smile.

For dinner, the smokehouse brings just as much razzle-dazzle in dishes like slow-cooked confit leeks with wasabi mayo, mushroom a la creme with leek leaf oil and a game-changing smoked cucumber with creamy buffalo curd dressing and cashew crumble.

Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Lunch at The Merchant Galle Fort

Insider Experience: Dinner at Smoke & Bitters

“World-class cocktails, vibrant food and a superb beach break vibe – whenever I eat here I never want to leave… unless it’s to go to their other bar RAA on the next bay!” – Matt Preston

“In search of the cool Sri Lankan beachside vibe, then look no further than Smoke & Bitters! It’s one of the best restaurants on the island, with brilliant food and cocktails served with some of the biggest smiles on the island too!” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
Le Grand Galle (Signature Room)
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Today’s journey takes you along the coast to Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital, with two exceptional stops along the way.

Insider Experience: Lunch at Lunuganga Country Estate, Bentota

Step into the visionary world of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s most celebrated architect. His country estate, Lunuganga, is a masterpiece of “tropical modernist” design where buildings, gardens, and landscape flow seamlessly together. Wander the terraced gardens, admire the architectural details and enjoy lunch surrounded by Bawa’s vision of paradise.

Insider Experience: Dinner at GINI in Colombo

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. three hours

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Lunch at Lunuganga Country Estate, Bentota

“Geoffrey Bawa’s ‘tropical modernist’ architecture is one of Sri Lanka’ 20th-century gems but here at his country hideaway, you’ll learn a little more about the rather private man behind those monolithic designs that can sometimes seem like grow out of the jungle or into the environment” – Matt Preston

“Geoffrey Bawa is a legend in Sri Lanka, his fingerprints and those of his students are everywhere. But his home Lunaganga is very special. Every space, angle and vista will leave wishing it was yours. Relax into lunch and pretend just for a moment that it is!” – Gary Mehigan

Insider Experience: Dinner at GINI in Colombo

“Sleek and delicious cooking over fire using some Sri Lankan ingredients and technique in modern ways. Excellent cocktails too” – Matt Preston

“If you didn’t know you were in Colombo you might think just for a second that you were in a swanky hipster restaurant in New York or Melbourne. But the open air and tropical vibes, the tantalizing smell of food over fire and that generous Sri Lankan hospitality makes this an unforgettable experience” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
The Kingsbury Colombo (Superior Room)
Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Your final full day in Sri Lanka begins with a delicious exploration of the capital.

Embrace city life this morning with a guided street food tour. Follow your tastebuds to Colombo’s colourful markets for fried cassava chips and the thirst-quenching water of native king coconuts. Chat with smiling stallholders and listen as they introduce you to a cornucopia of fresh, seasonal produce. Sample tropical fruit like bananas and pineapples and the enigmatic wood apple, each a window into the diverse Sri Lankan palate. As Gary says, “There’s no better way to get a handle on a new city than a walking tour… especially when there are snacks along the way!”

Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.

Insider Experience: Dinner at Ministry of Crab

Tonight’s farewell dinner takes place at the legendary Ministry of Crab, consistently ranked among Asia’s best restaurants.

Founded by renowned chef-restaurateur Dharshan Munidasa and Sri Lankan cricketers Kumar Sangakkara and Mahela Jayawardena, Ministry of Crab is dedicated to exploring the innumerable ways chefs transform crustaceans into the sumptuous and sublime.

You could start with fresh clams in buttery soy sauce, wood-fired kade bread and a serving of Sri Lanka’s giant freshwater prawns, laced with garlic and chilli. For the main course: you might crack open a kilo of crab spiced with hand-crushed native black pepper and sides of Japonica rice and garlic “kankun” or water spinach. For dessert, think a perfectly crisped coconut creme brulee.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 mins

Signature highlights

Insider Experience: Dinner at Ministry of Crab

“One of the world’s best-loved crab restaurants - but don’t underestimate their coconut crème brûlée either!” – Matt Preston

“Eating crab and giant lagoon prawns at The Ministry will put a smile on the dial!” – Gary Mehigan

Inclusions
The Kingsbury Colombo (Superior Room)
Breakfast and Dinner

Bid goodbye to your hosts and fellow travellers as your once-in-a-lifetime culinary 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 tour. Your transfer will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport.

Travel time: Driving – approx. 30 minutes

Inclusions
Breakfast
Highlights & inclusions
The following are included in your tour package:
Insider Experiences handpicked by Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan

The culinary expertise behind this exclusive Insider Series tour comes from one of Australia’s most respected food authorities, who has spent extensive time researching and building relationships throughout Sri Lanka to design this extraordinary journey.

Matt Preston

Matt Preston’s not afraid to smash a plate or two in pursuit of culinary excellence. With ten years of service as a judge on Channel 10’s MasterChef (alongside Gary Mehigan), a weekly national food column, six bestselling cookbooks and countless accolades, it’s no exaggeration to say he’s at the heart of everything delicious in Australia. He’ll be one of your two guides across 11 glorious days of grazing in Sri Lanka.

Gary Mehigan

Some chefs are built different: after training at iconic London venues The Connaught and Le Souffle, Gary Mehigan returned to Melbourne for a blazing career across some of the city’s best restaurants. He served for a decade on Channel 10’s MasterChef (alongside Matt Preston) and is currently working on crafting documentaries filled with delicious wonder for National Geographic.

Dates & pricing
Deposits available: Book now from just US$199.
Jan 10, 2026
Saturday
Jan 22, 2026
Thursday
Sold out!
Give our team a call on 888 337 2083 for more tour options
Jan 17, 2026
Saturday
Jan 29, 2026
Thursday
Sold out!
Give our team a call on 888 337 2083 for more tour options
Mar 16, 2026
Monday
Mar 28, 2026
Saturday
Guaranteed departure
From
US$3,719 /person with 
Non-member US$3,834
Valued up to US$4,516
-15%
Twin room
Apr 18, 2026
Saturday
Apr 30, 2026
Thursday
Guaranteed departure
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Twin room
May 18, 2026
Monday
May 30, 2026
Saturday
Guaranteed departure
Secure with US$199 deposit
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Twin room
Jun 18, 2026
Thursday
Jun 30, 2026
Tuesday
Guaranteed departure
Secure with US$199 deposit
From
US$3,656 /person with 
Non-member US$3,769
Valued up to US$4,424
-14%
Twin room
Deposits available: Book now from just US$199.
2026
Things to know

Booking Summary: After you book, please follow the instructions in your booking summary email and ensure you complete your Traveller Details in full.

  • Luxury Escapes asks that you please complete the Traveller Details form in your ‘My Escapes’ account within 7 days of booking. Following its completion, our Tours Concierge Team will be in touch to assist with any additional arrangements – including flights.
  • Traveller Details are required in full to confirm all arrangements for your tour. Please complete the Traveller Details form as soon as possible in your ‘My Escapes’ account. Failure to complete the form within 40 days of departure may result in losing your spot on the tour.
  • If your booking is on a non-guaranteed departure, this initial email is not your tour confirmation. Tours often require a minimum number of travellers to go ahead, so your departure may not be guaranteed immediately.
  • Please note that for guaranteed departures, a minimum of two people are required to book. In the event that only one passenger has booked, you will be given the opportunity to move your departure to another date.
  • Once there is an update on the status of your tour, you will be contacted via email by the Luxury Escapes Tours Concierge Team, and they will advise whether the tour has been confirmed. Please do not book flights or make any non-flexible arrangements until you receive this update.
  • Should you require assistance with your tour, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com, who will be happy to assist with any of your queries and who will support you right up until you return from your journey.
  • For tours that allow children, the child must be 12 years or over and must share a room with an adult (18+).
  • Children are the same price as adults.

Deposits

  • Please note that initial deposits are non-refundable but may be applied to another tour of equal or higher value within 30 days.

Service Fee

  • The service fee included in the Payment Schedule is non-refundable.

Cancellation Policy

  • Outside of the transferable deposit, all payments and service fees are non-refundable.
  • Where Luxury Escapes Tours may allow a cancellation for credit due to exceptional circumstances (and at its sole discretion) and where a cancellation/credit is not otherwise permitted, a service fee of A$300 per person will apply.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.

Date Changes

  • Changes can be made on request by contacting the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.
  • Tours pricing is dynamic and can change at any time.
  • Additional fees and fare difference may apply.
  • Changes are not permitted after your final payment date.
  • For Trusted Partner operated tours, additional fees may apply.
  • Date change conditions listed above do not apply to flights or pre- and post-tour accommodation booked with us. Flight fulfilment and changes are governed by the airline(s) selected at the time of booking. For your air travel, you are bound by the terms and conditions and fare rules of the selected airline(s). For pre- and post-tour accommodation, these reservations are not directly linked to your tour and may require a separate cost to change, as stated in your ‘My Escapes.’

Itinerary Amendments & Changes

  • Occasionally our itineraries are updated prior to departure. This may be to accommodate changes in weather, public holidays, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • In the event of a change in itinerary (for safety reasons or due to events outside of our control) that results in cancellation or change fees toward flights (or other parts of your travel) we will notify you as soon as practicable.
  • You will be responsible for any associated costs or will otherwise have the right to a refund (less any costs incurred or paid to third parties).

Surcharges

  • After completing your booking, your tour cost may be subject to additional surcharges due to factors beyond the control of Luxury Escapes.
  • Where the cost of delivering your selected tour materially increases between the time of purchase and delivery, we reserve the right to increase the balance due. Increases may be in relation to, but not limited to, currency fluctuations, taxes, airfares, fuel surcharges, tour costs or government changes due to health and safety restrictions. A material increase will be considered one in excess of 10% of the package price.

Fine Print and package inclusions are accurate at the time of purchase and not subject to change, unless updates or corrections are specifically noted in the latest Fine Print with a timestamp. Please check the Fine Print prior to departure for any updates.

We reserve the right to modify prices for marketing and commercial reasons. Please note that full terms and conditions apply. Refer to website’s terms and conditions.

Accommodation for the duration of your tour is included in the Tour package.

  • You can find relevant accommodation details for each day of the itinerary on the Tour offer page, or in your ‘My Escapes’.

Please note:

  • Accommodation is subject to availability and may be substituted for a hotel of a similar or higher standard without notice.
  • Rooms will be made available after 2pm on the day of arrival. Checkout is required by 12pm. Early check-in and late checkout may be available upon request, subject to availability. Additional fees may apply.
  • Maximum room capacity (Twin Room) is two adults. Maximum room capacity (Solo) is one adult.
  • All special requests, such as those regarding bedding preferences, are subject to availability and can only be confirmed upon check-in. Room assignments and bedding configurations may vary based on the destination and hotel policies, and are handled directly by the hotel staff.

Pre- & Post-Tour Accommodation

Pre- and post-tour accommodation can be booked to extend your stay before or after your tour by contacting our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Luxury Escapes uses a range of accommodation partners. For pre- and post-tour accommodation options where we can offer the same hotel as the start and end of your tour, your pre- and post-tour accommodation will be booked independent of your tour. If the hotel for your tour changes, this will be independent of your pre- or post-tour accommodation booking. In this instance, change fees may apply on your pre- or post-tour accommodation. If you choose to change, change fees can be found in your ‘My Escapes’.

For pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings, you may be required to check out of your room and check in again on the first or last day of your tour. You will need to confirm these details directly with the hotel.

Please contact the Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com for further information.

Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives (Maldives Extension):

  • Inclusions:
    • Roundtrip speedboat transfers from Malé
    • All-inclusive dining: breakfast, lunch and dinner while at Kuda Villingili Resort Maldives
    • Two alcoholic drinks and free-flow soft drink during lunch and dinner while at Luda Villingili Resort Maldives
  • Fine Print:
    • Watersports equipment hire, spa treatments, cooking classes and other activities are at your personal expense. Some of these experiences require advanced booking, please plan accordingly.
      • Included lunch is served at your choice of Aqua, SEA.FIRE.SALT or Dhoni Bar (adults-only).
      • Included dinner is served at your choice of Cumin, Fushi Cafe, Aqua or Dhoni Bar (adults-only).
      • Dinner served at SEA.FIRE.SALT, Baan Huraa or Origami are on a strict US$60 allowance per person. Any additional cost will be charged.
  • Return international flights
  • Visas
  • Single supplement
  • Meals/drinks not stated in the itinerary
  • Optional activities/tours, personal expenses/transfers not mentioned
  • Travel insurance (required)
  • Tips and gratuities
  • Dining inclusions do not include drinks (unless otherwise stated). Menus are subject to change without notice.
  • Optional experiences may be cancelled if minimum numbers to operate are not met. Final confirmation of your optional excursions and activities will be provided while on tour.
  • Optional experiences can only be booked online up to 90 days prior to departure, dependent on your tour’s guidelines, via My Escapes or by contacting our dedicated Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com. After this time, bookings can be made through your guide while on the tour.
  • All optional experiences are subject to availability.
  • Optional experiences may be updated prior to departure to accommodate changes in weather, common seasonal changes to timetables and transport routes, and unforeseen circumstances.
  • Optional experiences that require flight bookings are on a request basis, subject to availability until booked and confirmed, and may incur surcharges.
  • Optional experiences are non-refundable within 60 days of departure, unless cancelled due minimum numbers on tour not being met or unforeseen circumstances on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one piece of baggage with a maximum weight of 23kg on tour.
  • Passengers are permitted one additional, smaller piece of hand-luggage with a maximum weight of 5kg on tour.

Disclaimer

  • This tour is a unique travel experience with an itinerary and associated activities designed in collaboration with Matt Preston & Gary Mehigan. Their involvement is limited to the design and curation of the tour program. They will not be acting as a host or guide and will not be physically present during the tour.

Dietary Requirements

  • All travellers must notify us of special dietary requests at the time of booking. Although we will use reasonable endeavours to accommodate requests, we cannot guarantee requests will be met by suppliers. On tour, meals are prepared based on the availability of ingredients in each destination. Please keep in mind that specific meal requests may not be available at every stop.
  • Please be advised that food and drink locations are not owned or operated by us. It is your responsibility to check that meals and drinks meet your requirements. We expressly disclaim any liability for meals or drinks that contain allergens.

 

Transfers

  • Arrival and departure transfers are available on the first and last day of your tour only.
  • On Day 1, please book your flights to arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) by 2pm. Your transfer will meet you on arrival and take you to your hotel. Check-in on Day 1 is at 2pm.
  • Checkout on your final day is at 12pm. Please book your flights to depart from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) after 12pm. Your transfer will meet you at your hotel and take you to the airport.
  • Maldives Extension: Checkout on your final day is at 12pm. Please book your flights to depart from Malé’s Velana International Airport (MLE) after 12pm. Your transfer will meet you at checkout hotel and transfer you via speedboat to the airport.
  • If you have booked your pre- and post-tour accommodation through Luxury Escapes, transfers may be available (not available for Trusted Partner operated tours).
  • For complimentary transfers to be fulfilled outside of arrival and departure date, all pre- and post-tour accommodation bookings must be booked through Luxury Escapes no later than 60 days before departure. After this time, any pre- or post-tour accommodation bookings made will not be eligible for complimentary transfers.
  • If you have booked pre- or post-tour accommodation outside of Luxury Escapes, you will forfeit your complimentary airport transfers.
  • Please note ‘Private Transfers’ refers to transfers that are exclusive for your tour group and may be shared among other members of your group if arriving on the same flight or another flight arriving within a 30-minute window.
  • Transfers are based on the package purchased. Twin room packages include one shared airport transfer for both travellers, regardless of differing arrival times. Solo transfers are only included with solo traveller packages. Additional transfers can be arranged at an extra cost.
  • Flight information must be provided to Luxury Escapes 60 days prior to departure in order to book transfers.

Tipping

  • Tipping included for scheduled services (covering hotel and local restaurant staff, porters, and jeep safari drivers.)
  • Sri Lanka: Tipping included for scheduled services (covering hotel and local restaurant staff, porters, and jeep safari drivers.)
    • Tipping is customary in Sri Lanka and not included in your tour package. At the end of the tour your local guide will collect money from each guest to be divided between your tour guide, driver and assistants. It is recommended that each traveller tip approximately US$12–15 per day. In addition, when tipping hotel restaurants, local restaurants and jeep safari drivers, it is recommended to give approximately LKR500–1,000 per person, per property/jeep. Please keep in mind that tipping is optional, dependent on quality of service, and entirely at your discretion.
  • Maldives: Tipping and gratuities are at your own discretion. Resort service charges may already be included in your bill.

Please Note:

  • Kandy to Nuwara Eliya Train
    • Train tickets are generally only available for purchase approximately 30 days before travel. All efforts will be made to secure a seat for you in your chosen class, but please be aware that on some trains, all tickets may have been pre-reserved. If confirmation of tickets in the class requested or an alternative class is unsuccessful, you will be notified accordingly. Alternative travel may be arranged by coach from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, following a scenic route through the region’s tea plantations.

Travel Insurance

  • Travel insurance is required on all our tours, which (at a minimum) covers medical expenses and repatriation. You may not be permitted to join the tour group if evidence of travel insurance is not provided prior to your trip. If you are unable to obtain travel insurance for whatever reason, you may be required to sign a waiver and/or provide a letter from a medical practitioner which confirms you are fit for travel. For any enquiries regarding travel insurance, please call 1300 88 99 00 or email sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Passports & Visas

  • A visa may be required. It is the traveller’s responsibility to ensure they hold a current visa for the countries visited on tour. If the traveller is on a non-Australian passport, a valid re-entry visa may be required.
  • You are responsible for visas, entry, health and other requirements, and any documents required by laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited. Luxury Escapes and/or its servants and agents are not responsible for passport and visa requirements or for any loss you sustain for failing to comply with laws, regulations, orders and/or requirements of countries visited.
  • A valid passport with a minimum validity of 6 months beyond your return travel date is required for all passengers (including children and infants).

Traveller Details

  • Traveller Details must be completed for each individual traveller.
  • Travellers must advise of any medical conditions or dietary requirements. Failure to provide such information in advance of your tour may result in an inability to cater to your requirements.
  • We work with exceptional local tour providers to present uniquely crafted packages that encompass sightseeing tours and excursions. Our tour provider partners are dedicated to making every effort to accommodate specific requirements. However, it should be noted that the extent to which they can address mobility and accessibility needs may vary, depending on the nature of the sightseeing tour and activities involved. Please contact tours@luxuryescapes.com so we can advise whether your specific needs can be accommodated.
  • Special dietary requirements can be catered for in most cases, however, on occasion this may not be possible due to location, lack of availability of unique ingredients, and other extenuating circumstances. It is always advised to carry any necessary supplies with you.
  • Passport details are required for all bookings. In some cases, a digital copy of your passport may be requested by Luxury Escapes to book certain elements of your trip.
  • Names on your booking and in your traveller details need to match your passport. If incorrect, any fees incurred to make changes to internal flights for on-ground arrangements will be at the cost of the traveller.
  • If a photo of your passport is requested, failure to provide valid photo ID will result in your booking being cancelled and all monies paid remaining non-refundable. When requested, a digital copy of your passport must be provided for each guest at least 90 days prior to your tour departure.
  • Should you require any assistance with your Traveller Details, please contact our Tours Concierge Team at tours@luxuryescapes.com.

Tour Pace

  • It’s important to note that specific activities and intensity levels may vary between different tour operators and destinations. When selecting a group tour, it’s advisable to carefully review the itinerary, activity descriptions and fitness requirements to ensure a suitable match for your preferences and physical capabilities.
    • Relaxed: Leisurely pace with limited walking or physical demands. Opportunity for ample free time and leisure activities. Suitable for individuals seeking a laidback experience.
    • Moderate: Usually more than one day in a location. Balanced mix of exploration and physical engagement. Suitable for participants with a reasonable level of fitness. Exploring cities on foot, visiting landmarks and guided excursions. Requires a moderate level of stamina and physical activity.
    • Active: Activities most days. Generally, not staying in a location for two days or more. Suitable for participants with high fitness levels and a sense of adventure.

Travel Styles

  • Fully Guided Tour: A dedicated tour director and driver will accompany you for the entire trip. In some cases, you may have different tour directors in different regions. If your tour spans multiple countries, any internal flights included will not be escorted.
  • Partially Guided Tour: You’ll have a tour driver and local guides at specific locations or portions of the trip, but not the entire time. There might be different local guides for different regions.
  • Self-Guided Tour: You will not have a guide for your trip. You will be provided detailed trip notes with elements, such as accommodation and transport, pre-booked for you.

Insider Series Tours

This is an Insider Series tour. Matt Preston and Gary Mehigan have expertly curated the dining experiences, venues, and culinary highlights featured throughout this itinerary. However, please note that Matt and Gary will not be physically present on the tour. You will be accompanied by an experienced, English-speaking guide who will lead you through all included activities and experiences.

Health and Fitness Acknowledgement:

  • Travellers acknowledge that they are required to have a good level of health and fitness to undertake the activities on this tour.
  • There are limitations to the degree of accommodations that can be made if travellers are unable to partake in the included activities on this tour. Please consider suitability as additional costs could apply.
  • Travellers also acknowledge and agree that neither we nor the tour provider will be able to provide medical or other assistance in the event that they are unable to complete any aspect of the tour as a result of their health or physical condition (nor are we liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury or death arising from such).

Your tour begins and ends at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) with return airport transfers. The extended tour ends at Malé’s Velana International Airport (MLE), with return speedboat transfers.

Return flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. If your chosen tour departure date is guaranteed at the time of booking, you may be able to purchase flights immediately. If your tour departure date is not yet guaranteed (still pending minimum numbers), flights should not be booked until you receive an update on the status of your tour.

Important: Please allow for travelling time from international countries. International flights are not included in your package and must be purchased separately. It is your responsibility to make your own travel arrangements and ensure that you arrive at your starting location on your chosen tour start date.

A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website, Visas Direct, to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we will be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.

Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.

Important Destination Information:

Sri Lanka

Time zone: India Standard Time GMT+5:30

Telephone: +94

Currency: Sri Lankan rupee (Rs or LKR)

Accessing money: Avoid buying Sri Lankan rupees ahead of time, as it’s unlikely you’ll get a good rate outside of Sri Lanka, and remember to exchange back to your home currency before departing.

ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted within the city. Cash is advised when visiting rural areas. Most institutions will exchange money for you.

Language: Sinhala or Tamil

Climate: Tropical and quite hot, Sri Lanka has an average yearly temperature that hovers between 28 and 30 degrees Celsius.

Maldives

Time zone: GMT+5 (Maldives Time)

Telephone: +960

Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa or US dollars

Accessing money: ATMs are widely available with credit cards widely accepted.

Language: Dhivehi

Climate: Warm and tropical with an average high between 29 and 31 degrees Celsius year-round. January and April are the driest months, with little rain and low humidity, making this peak season at resorts.

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