Highlights:

• Step back in time at the ancient city of Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Wander through the bustling Dambulla wholesale markets – a feast for the senses.

• Climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress and explore the sacred Dambulla Cave Temple.

• Breathe in the scents of Sri Lanka at a lush spice garden in Matale.

• Meet Sri Lanka’s Indigenous forest dwellers on an unforgettable Veddha Village tour.

• Start your day in style with a serene floating breakfast on Mapakada Lake.

• Explore the cultural heart of Kandy with a visit to the Temple of the Tooth and a dazzling dance show.

• Ride one of the world’s most scenic trains through misty highlands from Kandy to Nanu Oya.

• Sip and learn at a working tea factory – the birthplace of world-famous Ceylon Tea.

• Stroll the cobbled streets of Galle Fort, where colonial charm meets coastal beauty.

• Go wild on a thrilling game drive through Yala National Park, home to leopards and elephants.

• End the tour with a few days in the tropical paradise of the Maldives, in a beautiful resort indulging in beach time, spas, snorkelling and relaxing!

 

Day 1 – Negombo  

Welcome to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be met by our chauffer and transferred to our hotel in Negombo, around 30 minutes drive away, to relax after your long flight. We will meet in the evening for dinner. Overnight Negombo

 

Day 2 – Anuradhapura

Wake up with the sun and dive into the sensory spectacle that is the Negombo fish market. This is where the day starts early and with a bang — the clatter of crates, the calls of fishermen, and the dazzling spread of seafood fresh from the Indian Ocean. Your guide will help you navigate the delicious madness, pointing out shiny crabs, monster lobsters, and squid so fresh they might wink at you.

With the sea breeze behind you, head inland toward the ancient city of Anuradhapura — a place where time stands still and legends come to life.

This afternoon, explore a city that was once the beating heart of a mighty kingdom. Marvel at the massive domes of Ruwanweliseya and Jetawanaramaya, ancient stupas that still command reverence and awe. As your guide reveals stories of royalty, spirituality, and epic battles, you’ll feel the past stirring beneath your feet.

Next, make a soulful stop at the Sri Maha Bodhi Tree Temple, home to a sacred fig tree said to be the oldest one ever planted by human hands — a direct descendant of the tree under which the Buddha found enlightenment. Yes, it’s kind of a big deal.

Cap off the day at Isurumuniya, a rock temple adorned with intricate carvings that whisper romantic tales and mythic adventures from a time long gone. It’s history with a touch of magic — and maybe a few photo ops too.

Overnight stay in Anuradhapura, Meals: B, D Driving time is approximately 4.30 hours.

 

Day 3 – Kandalama

After a leisurely breakfast, set off on a scenic drive to Kandalama, your tranquil home base for the next two nights. Nestled among lush jungleand a mango plantation, and overlooking a peaceful lake, it’s the perfect launchpad for some unforgettable adventures. And the best bit? This hotel is entirely run by women, from the maintenance women to the Manager! We have to support that!

First stop: the awe-inspiring Dambulla Cave Temple. Step into a world carved into stone, where five ancient caves hold over 150 statues and vibrant paintings of the Buddha – some dating back over two millennia. As your guide brings the stories behind these sacred spaces to life, you’ll understand why this World Heritage-listed site has drawn pilgrims for thousands of years.

As the sun begins to dip, switch gears and dive into a very different kind of local experience – the bustling Wholesale Market. Here, chaos and color collide in the best possible way. Weave between trucks stacked sky-high with produce and vendors selling everything from fiery chilies to tropical fruit so fresh it might still be growing. This lively maze is where much of Sri Lanka’s harvest begins its journey to Colombo, and there’s no better place to soak in the sights, sounds, and flavors of the island’s agricultural soul.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya, Meals: B, D

total driving time is approximately 2.30 hours.

Please note that there are many steps to the caves and a dress code which requires you to remove your shoes and cover up your shoulders and legs.

 

Day 4 – Sigiriya

This morning, lace up your walking shoes and prepare to conquer the mighty “Lion Rock” – Sigiriya. Towering dramatically above the surrounding plains, this iconic UNESCO World Heritage site is part natural wonder, part ancient masterpiece. As you ascend the winding stairways carved into the rock face, pause to take in the breathtaking views and the stories hidden along the way.

Below, explore the remains of ancient pleasure gardens — complete with moats, fountains, and symmetry that would make any royal proud. Halfway up, you’ll be greeted by enormous lion paws carved into stone, once part of a colossal sculpture that gave Sigiriya its name. And don’t miss the famous mirror wall — so smooth that ancient kings admired their reflections in it, and so cherished that ancient poets left their verses behind, still visible today.

After soaking up the grandeur of Sigiriya, it’s time to trade royal ruins for rural rhythms as you continue on to Hiriwadunna. Here, you’ll step into village life with a guided tour that blends tradition and nature. Travel like a local with a leisurely bullock cart ride, wander on foot through lush scrub jungle, and hop aboard an ‘oruwa’ – a traditional canoe-like boat – to cross a serene lake fringed with lotus flowers. It’s a peaceful, authentic glimpse into everyday life in Sri Lanka’s countryside.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya, Meals: B, D

NOTE: The visit to Lion Rock takes around 3.5 hours in total. From the Lion’s Paw there is a steep, 30-minute climb over often narrow walkways and steps to reach all of the points of interest at the site. Those who do not want to climb can wait at the Lion’s Paw until the rest of the group return. You must climb in order to access sites like the water garden, boulder garden, frescoes and the mirror wall.

Today’s total driving time is approximately 2.30 hours.

 

Day 05 – Mahiyanganaya

After breakfast, hit the road toward the remote and culturally rich town of Mahiyanganaya. Along the way, stop in Matale to explore a fragrant spice garden, where you’ll discover the roots (and leaves, and seeds!) of Sri Lanka’s famously flavorful cuisine. Wander through lush greenery as your guide explains how spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg are grown and harvested. Top it off with a soothing head massage – a relaxing treat that’ll leave you feeling refreshed and ready for the journey ahead. Don’t forget to browse the garden shop if you want to bring home a little flavor of Sri Lanka.

In the evening, dive into a rare and fascinating cultural encounter with a visit to a Veddha Village. The Veddhas are Sri Lanka’s Indigenous forest-dwelling people, and this experience offers a respectful, authentic glimpse into their unique way of life. The program includes:

• A visit to the local museum, where you’ll learn about the history and traditions of the Veddha community

• A hunting demonstration that showcases ancient survival techniques

• Insights into herbal medicine and first aid, including remedies for snake bites – jungle wisdom at its finest

• A traditional fire-lighting method using Kahanda stone, no matches needed!

• Lullabies and songs passed down through generations

• The Kiri-Koraha dance, a spiritual performance invoking blessings from God Kalubandara

• And finally, a chance to meet the village chieftain in his own home – a rare honor and a memorable moment

It’s an evening full of ancient traditions, warm welcomes, and living history.

Overnight stay in Mahiyanganaya, Meals: B, D. Total driving time is approximately 4.30 hours.

 

Day 6– Kandy

Rise early and start your day with a touch of magic – a serene floating breakfast on the tranquil waters of Mapakada Lake. As the morning mist lifts and the sun sparkles on the surface, enjoy a delicious spread aboard your private boat, surrounded by the peaceful beauty of nature. It’s the kind of breakfast you’ll be talking about for years.

Then it’s onward to the cultural capital – Kandy. Along the way, stop at a fascinating Gem Museum, where you’ll discover why Sri Lanka is known as the “Island of Gems.” Learn how these natural treasures are unearthed and crafted, from rough stone to dazzling brilliance. You’ll see rare Ceylon sapphires – legendary for their quality – along with other semi-precious gems in hues of blue, green, red, and more. It’s a glittering window into the country’s geological wealth.

As evening falls, the energy shifts from sparkle to rhythm. At 5:00 PM, take your seat for an exclusive traditional dance performance. With vibrant costumes, hypnotic drumming, and fiery stunts, this cultural show is a dynamic display of Sri Lanka’s rich artistic heritage. From the elegant Kandyan dancers to the powerful beats of the traditional drums, this is a performance that stirs the soul and celebrates centuries-old traditions.

Overnight stay at Kandy, Meals: B, D

Today’s total driving time is approximately 3.00 hours.

 

Day 7– Kandy

Start your morning with a visit to one of Sri Lanka’s most revered and spiritually significant sites – the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa). Nestled in the heart of Kandy, this stunning temple houses a sacred relic believed to be a tooth of the Buddha himself. Since the 16th century, pilgrims have traveled from near and far to pay their respects, and today you’ll walk in their footsteps, soaking in the serene atmosphere, rhythmic chanting, and scent of lotus flowers.

**Next, trade temples for towering trees at the lush and expansive Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Home to over 4,000 species of plants, this green paradise features an enormous fig tree with a canopy that seems to go on forever, and a world-famous orchid collection that bursts with color. It’s a peaceful stroll for adults and a dream playground for kids to run, explore, and maybe spot a monkey or two in the treetops.

As twilight sets in, the real treat begins – dinner with a local Kandyan family. This isn’t just a meal; it’s a hands-on cooking class and cultural exchange rolled into one, with a focus on Sri Lanka’s sweet side. You’ll learn to make traditional Kandyan desserts, from coconut-filled delicacies to syrupy treats, all made with love and time-honored techniques. It’s an evening of warm hospitality, delicious flavors, and the kind of memories that linger long after the last bite. Overnight stay at Kandy, Meals: B, D

 

Day 8– Nuwara Eliya

Say goodbye to Kandy this morning as you hop aboard one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic train rides, bound for the misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya. Watch the landscape shift dramatically as you climb into the heart of tea country — rolling green hills, waterfalls, and endless rows of tea bushes stretch as far as the eye can see.

Perched at 1,800 metres above sea level, Nuwara Eliya offers a cool, refreshing escape from the lowland heat. Known as "Little England" for good reason, the town still carries the charm of the colonial era — think tidy hedgerows, rose gardens, and old English manor-style homes dotting the hillsides. It’s as if the British left behind a little slice of the Cotswolds, tucked into the Sri Lankan mountains.

In the evening, stretch your legs with a short, soul-stirring hike to the serene Single Tree Temple. This gentle 40-minute walk rewards you with sweeping views over the tea-carpeted hills, distant lakes, and cloud-kissed peaks. As the sun begins to dip, casting golden light across the landscape, you’ll understand why this quiet corner of the country feels almost otherworldly.

Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya, Meals: B, D

NOTE: Today’s train journey is approximately 3.5 hours. Train tickets from Kandy to Nanu Oya are in very high demand, especially over high season (December - April, and August). While we always try our best to secure tickets, on the rare occasion that we cannot you will be provided with a private vehicle.

 

Day 9– Yala

Kick off your morning with a visit to a lush Tea Estate, nestled in the cool highlands. Here, you’ll follow the journey of the iconic Ceylon black tea, from tender green leaf to steaming cup. Learn about the careful art of plucking, withering, rolling, and drying – a process that’s been perfected over generations. And yes, there’s a tasting session waiting at the end, so you can sip the very brew that’s made Sri Lanka famous around the world.

After your tea-filled morning, hit the road to the enchanting town of Ella. This laid-back gem is tucked high in the mountains and brims with cozy cafés, friendly vibes, and jaw-dropping views at every turn. It's the kind of place where time slows down, and every corner feels like a postcard.

Next up: the iconic Nine Arches Bridge – a marvel of colonial-era engineering. Rising 24 metres above the forest floor and stretching 91 metres across a lush valley, this stone bridge looks like something out of a fantasy film. Your guide will help you choose the best way to experience it:
– A leisurely stroll from Ella train station along the tracks for a close-up view
– Or a slightly more adventurous hike for sweeping panoramas or a stunning view from below — perfect for photographers and nature lovers alike.

After soaking in the beauty of Ella, continue on to Yala, where you’ll check into your hotel and unwind for the evening. With the wilds of Yala National Park on the horizon, a little rest now sets you up perfectly for tomorrow’s adventures.

Overnight stay in Yala, Meals: B, D

Today’s total driving time is approximately 4.30 hours.

 

Day 10– Bentota

Start your morning with a wild adventure in one of Sri Lanka’s most thrilling natural playgrounds — Yala National Park. Hop into a 4x4 safari jeep and head deep into a landscape teeming with life, from sun-dappled lagoons to dense jungle and golden grasslands. Your guide will keep eyes and ears tuned to the secrets of the wild — listening for rustling leaves, bird calls, or the silent glide of a crocodile beneath the water’s surface.

Yala is a wildlife lover’s dream, home to elephants, monkeys, sloth bears, crocodiles, and water buffalo, and if luck’s on your side, you might even spot a leopard slinking through the underbrush — this park is one of the best places on Earth to catch a glimpse of these elusive cats in their natural habitat.

After your safari, take a break with a taste of local indulgence – buffalo curd, a creamy Sri Lankan favorite. Served in rustic terracotta pots and topped with thick, golden kithul treacle, this sweet-and-sour treat is perfect as a snack, dessert, or palate-pleasing surprise between adventures.

Next, journey southwest to the historic coastal city of Galle, where colonial charm and coastal beauty collide. Wander through the iconic Galle Fort, originally built by the Portuguese in 1588 and later fortified by the Dutch. With its cobbled streets, old ramparts, and colonial-era buildings, it’s no wonder this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most atmospheric spots in the country.

Don’t miss the elegant Galle Lighthouse, proudly standing within the fort’s walls. Perched at the southernmost tip of the promontory, it offers unbeatable views over the turquoise sea and watching ships sail into Galle Harbour — just as they’ve done for centuries.

Overnight stay in Bentota, Meals: B, D. Driving time is approximately 4.30 hours.

 

Day 11– Bentota

It’s time for a day off to digest all that you have seen and experienced!

Bentota is a resort town on Sri Lanka’s southwest coast. Its long Bentota Beach stretches north, where it becomes a sandy strip known as Paradise Island, parallel to Bentota Lagoon. Coral-rich dive sites include Canoe Rock. On Bentota River, centuries-old Galapota Temple has a large Buddha statue.

Overnight stay in Bentota. Meals: B,

 

Day 12– Depart for the Maldives!

After breakfast proceed to airport to catch the flight to Male in the MALDIVES!! (Approximate Duration 2.3hrs) Meals: B

Today we fly to our tropical paradise in the Maldives for some Resort Indulgence

WELCOME TO THE MALDIVES

 

• Arrive at Velana International Airport from Sri Lanka

• Warm welcome and speedboat transfer to the resort

• Check-in with welcome drink and resort orientation

• Leisure time: beach, snorkelling, or pool

• Optional: Dolphin Watching Cruise (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM)

• Dinner at the main restaurant

 

Day 13  - Maldives Island Resort

Wellness & Sunset Adventure

• Buffet breakfast at the resort

• Free time for beach walk or optional 50-min Balinese spa treatment

• Buffet lunch at the resort

• Optional: Sunset Fishing Experience (4:30 PM – 6:00 PM)

• Dinner featuring Maldivian and international cuisine

Day 14

Local Discovery or Sandbank Bliss

• Breakfast at the resort

• Group leisure time

• Early lunch

• Optional: Malé City Tour or Sandbank Picnic (1:30 PM – 5:00 PM)

• Return to resort and relax

• Dinner at the main restaurant

 

Day 15– Negombo  - return to Sri Lanka

• Early breakfast and morning leisure

• Check-out and speedboat transfer to Velana International Airport to fly back to Sri Lanka

• You will be met by our chauffer and transferred to Negombo (Approximately 30min) Check in to hotel

Overnight stay in Negombo.Meals: B

 

Package Inclusions

• 3-night resort stay (single/double occupancy)

• Full board meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner)

• Return speedboat transfers with government taxes

During your stay you can book these optional add-ons

• Dolphin Watching Cruise

• 50-min Traditional Balinese Massage

• Sandbank Picnic Experience

• Guided Malé City Tour

 

 

Day 16– Sri Lanka Departure

After breakfast proceed to airport to catch the flight to back to home.  Meals: B