Itinerary
Classic Sri Lanka
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Margaret Anderson
Platinum Travel Executive
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Classic Sri Lanka
Discover traditional Sri Lanka with a bespoke holiday that takes in the best of this beautiful island nation. Starting in the idyllic capital Colombo, the Garden City of the East, you’ll quickly become immersed in the romance of Sri Lanka’s ancient ruins and temples. Climb to the historic rock-top fortress of Sigiriya, stay in a colonial-style tea planter’s bungalow in the leafy highlands, and explore the meandering alleyways of the charming port of Galle. Along the way you’ll visit serene stupas and see Asian elephant in misty rainforests. Your tour ends on Bentota’s beaches, with the Sri Lankan sun smiling benevolently down on you.
London - Colombo
Pack your bags – the traditional charms of Sri Lanka await. Today you’ll catch a night flight, to minimise jetlag, and land in Sri Lanka’s capital, Colombo.
Colombo - Sigiriya
You’ll start your Sri Lankan holiday as you mean to go on: with stylish accommodation, awe-inspiring views and fascinating historic sites. The magnificent rock-top fortress of Sigiriya is a scenic drive through the countryside from Colombo. Water Garden Sigiriya has amazing views of the Sigiriya Rock and stunning gardens to explore. Have a rest and soak up the tranquil atmosphere: there’s a busy day ahead tomorrow.
Sigiriya - Polonnaruwa - Minneriya - Sigiriya
At Polonnaruwa, hundreds of ancient structures can be discovered in the well-preserved ruins of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Times past are brought vividly to life as you explore the tombs, temples, stupas and immense reclining Buddha carved into the rock. From medieval life to wildlife, you’ll enjoy a 4x4 safari in the forests and grasslands of Minneriya National Park. Look out for sambar deer, macaque and elephant.
Sigiriya - Dambulla
In the 5th-century, King Kashyapa built his palace at Sigiriya on the top of a plug of volcanic rock that protrudes from the jungle. Its ruins can be explored after an exhilarating climb up teetering staircases. Drink in the views and descend with care. There’s more ancient wonder at the nearby Dambulla Rock Temples. These caverns from the 1st-century BC are festooned with over 150 images of the Buddha.
Sigiriya - Kandy
Nestled in verdant-green hill country, Kandy was the last capital of the Sri Lankan kings. It is now the island's cultural heart, home to graceful colonial buildings, unique music and traditional dance. Kandy House, your charming boutique home for the next two nights, is set amid lush gardens on the city outskirts.
Kandy
Located in the refreshing highlands, Kandy is easy to fall in love with. Begin your romance with a trip to the tranquil Peradeniya Botanical Gardens before exploring the countryside. Kandy's lakeshore, hills, markets, arts centres and museums are all top-class. Finish with an evening visit to the Temple of the Tooth, a reliquary for one of the Buddha’s alleged teeth.
Haputale
Ride the rails to Haputale, cutting through prime tea country. A riot of leafy green spreads out before you as you gaze longingly through your train windows. Enjoy the all-inclusive facilities here, which cover everything from gourmet-dining experiences to supplying a fine range of international wines and spirits. Explore the extensive grounds or learn more about the colonial history of Sri Lanka.
Haputale
Today your chauffeur guide will escort you on a morning Tea Experience, where you can visit the nearby tea plantations and factories. Return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Galle
Drive down from Haputale along the south coast to the port city of Galle. Along the way you’ll pass many small fishing villages and secluded beaches. You’ll see fishermen mending their nets, pulling in their haul and relaxing in the hulls of their boats or in hammocks under the shade of a tree. Galle is a city with a colourful history and a Dutch colonial feel. It has a large fortress at its heart that simply begs to be explored.
Galle
Take leisurely strolls around Galle Fort, stopping to try local snacks, or to peer inside the city’s imposing churches. Depending on the weather, we can also recommend a cycling tour of the surrounding coast. Between November and April, a whale-watching trip is definitely on the cards. Humpback and blue whale can both be spotted here.
Galle - Bentota
A short drive up the coast leads to Bentota, on route stop to visit a turtle hatchery. This resort town on the southwest coast is blessed with beautiful beaches and sweeping bays. Right on the beach, amid glorious gardens, is the boutique Taru Villa Long House. This will be your home for your final three nights.
Bentota
Melt into Sri Lankan beach-life. Dip in the sea and pool, book a massage, dine on exquisite curries and sip tamarind martinis. If you’re still feeling energetic, there are water sports aplenty.
Bentota - Colombo - UK
After a sun-kissed break, it’s time to bid your farewells to this beautiful country. We’ll return to Colombo Airport in plenty of time to catch your flight back to the UK.
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