Take to the road after breakfast and head to the Golden Cave Temple of Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage site. This sacred temple complex has been the site of far-flung pilgrimages for millennia, filled with over 150 serene Buddha statues and innumerable cave paintings dating back over 2,000 years.
Then, make your way to your hotel at Amaya Lake. A tranquil escape nestled on the shores of Kandalama Lake, the resort is a perfect base for exploring the Cultural Triangle, boasting shimmering lake views from its refreshing outdoor pools. Enjoy a relaxing hour-long, herbal oil full-body spa treatment, and later, sit down to a delicious BBQ welcome dinner and get to know your fellow travellers.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 3.5 hours
Wake to an early breakfast before your morning trip to the ruins of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, set atop a granite rock formation in the middle of the jungle. Climb this historic UNESCO site for panoramic views over the jungle treetops, giant lion paws hewn from stone, and a glimpse at ancient Sri Lankan civilisations dating back to the 5th century CE – an unmissable highlight of the island’s cultural heritage.
For those seeking a slower pace this morning, a leisurely visit to the nearby gardens offers a chance to greet the day with an exploration of Dambulla’s lush flora.
Stop for an included lunch, then transfer to the ruins of Polonnaruwa, the former medieval capital of Sri Lanka and another UNESCO site. Here, you’ll see the well-preserved remains of Polonnaruwa Vatadage, the Parakrama Samudraya reservoir, grand stupas and statues.
Once you’ve explored the array of ruins and statues, retire to your hotel for another exceptional dinner at your lakeside lodgings.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
After breakfast at your hotel, set out to visit the spice gardens of Matale and experience Sri Lanka’s famous aromatics, with the air infused with cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg and pepper. Learn about the variety of herbs and spices central to Sri Lankan culture, along with the traditional uses and healing benefits.
Continue on your way to the royal city of Kandy. Enjoy lunch with the group, then explore the city on a welcome tour, culminating in a visit to Kandy View Point. Take in views of the city and the artificially constructed Kandy Lake at its centre.
This afternoon, you’ll visit the UNESCO Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – an important pilgrimage destination for Buddhists the world over, said to house a tooth of the Buddha himself. Here, make an offering of flowers and listen to the chanting of Buddhist devotees visiting the temple. Then, check in to your Kandy hotel for a delicious dinner and an evening enjoying spectacuar views.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
After breakfast, prepare for one of the world’s most iconic and scenic train journeys. You’ll board the train in Kandy and find your seat for the memorable ride to Nuwara Eliya, the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country.
This classic journey is considered a highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka. The train climbs slowly into the cool mountain air of the hill country, passing through tunnels and over classic stone bridges. Look out the open windows to see a stunning landscape of vibrant, green tea plantations dotted with the colourful saris of tea pluckers at work.
Your destination, Nuwara Eliya, is often called ‘Little England’ for its colonial-era bungalows and cool, misty climate. After check-in at our hotel, spend the rest of the day at your leisure to explore the town or unwind in the comfort of your hotel room.
Travel time: Train – approx. three hours
Scenic train journey to Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast at your hotel, it’s time to embark on your morning tea experience. Visit the local tea fields and factory where you’ll learn the journey of tea from leaf to cup and get acquainted with the art of tea-plucking as you try your hand with the guidance of skilled locals. Discover Sri Lanka’s primary export and the different varietals grown in the region, then learn about the process, from planting all the way to tasting.
Complete your experience with an afternoon high tea at the Grand Hotel or Jetwing St. Andrew’s. Admire the elegant, colonial-style setting, you’ll be served perfectly steeped tea, classic cucumber sandwiches, and traditional English scones. The rest of the afternoon is yours to explore Nuwara Eliya at your own leisure before enjoying an included dinner.
Enjoy breakfast before setting out on a scenic drive towards Tissamaharama, the gateway to Yala National Park. The journey includes a stop in the popular town of Ella to see the iconic Nine Arch Bridge. Here, you’ll take a ride in a local tuk-tuk to get a close-up look at the famous colonial-era railway, which spans a lush green valley.
After the visit, you’ll have time to explore the charming centre of Ella before continuing the drive south. Your day concludes upon arrival at your hotel in Tissamaharama, where the evening is yours to relax and enjoy the southern countryside ahead of tomorrow’s safari.
Travel time: Driving – approx. four hours
Rise and shine early today for a morning safari at Yala National Park. Famous for having one of the highest densities of leopards in the world, Yala offers a fantastic opportunity to search for this elusive big cat, alongside native wildlife like the Sri Lankan sloth bear and wild water buffalo.
The park’s biodiversity is impressive—it’s home to over 40 species of mammals and more than 200 species of birds. As you explore the landscape of scrub, lagoons and grasslands, gain insights into Yala’s crucial role in the conservation of Sri Lankan elephants and other native animals.
Return to your hotel after the safari to spend the afternoon at your leisure. For those who want another opportunity to spot wildlife, an optional second safari drive is available in the afternoon (at an additional cost).
Yala National Park safari
After breakfast, your journey continues along the coast towards the historic city of Galle. Along the way, you’ll witness one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights: the stilt fishermen of the southern coast. You’ll see them perched on singular poles just off the shore, a traditional fishing method unique to this part of the island.
Your destination’s main highlight is the magnificent Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site. History feels alive within its walls, and you’ll have time to explore the charming, cobblestoned streets lined with colonial-era buildings, stylish boutiques, and art galleries.
Later, check into your oceanfront accommodation, the Radisson Blu Resort Galle. The rest of the afternoon is yours to relax by the pool or enjoy the hotel’s facilities ahead of a restful evening in this seaside city.
Travel time: Driving – approx. three hours
Take a morning tour of the coastal city of Galle, Sri Lanka’s oldest seaport. See the UNESCO World Heritage-listed 16th-century Galle Fort, built by the Portuguese and later expanded by the Dutch and British. Explore the countless boutiques and seaside ramparts along the cobbled streets, where Dutch, Portuguese and Sri Lankan culture collide in striking architectural features.
Later, enjoy a leisurely afternoon exploring further on your own time, then return to your hotel for dinner.
Leave the southern coast this morning and travel to the bustling capital, Colombo.
Today, explore the fast-developing city of Colombo and drive through the Cinnamon Gardens to see Independence Square, then cruise along the oceanfront promenade of Galle Face Green. You’ll also drive by Colombo Fort and other city landmarks for photo opportunities before having the chance to browse the local shops.
Later, enjoy a restful evening spent freely, with dinner served at your hotel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. 2.5 hours
After one final breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to Sri Lanka. Checkout and meet your transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) for your onward travel.
Travel time: Driving – approx. one hour