Highlights of Sri Lanka

Highlights of Sri Lanka

From stunning scenery to amazing architecture, Sri Lanka is a tropical paradise. Marvel at magnificent temples, see the Rock Fortress at Sigiriya, see elephants at Yala National Park and explore the ruined cities of Polonnaruwa and Anuradhapura.

What’s Included

• International flights and current taxes
• 13 nights in 3+/4 star accommodation
• All meals: 14 Breakfasts, 13 Lunches, 14 Dinners
• Maximum group size 28 passengers
• Physical Rating 2: Walking, some steps and time on your feet

Days 1-2: Fly to Colombo

Fly overnight to Colombo. On arrival you will be met by your expert tour guide and transferred to your hotel in the coastal town of Negombo, a short drive from Colombo. The rest of the day is yours to explore.

Day 3: Sigiriya Lion Rock Fortress

Journey to Sigiriya and explore the magnificent Lion Rock Fortress, built by King Kasyapa. Later visit the world-renowned Heavenly Maiden frescoes.

Day 4: Polonnaruwa

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, which was the former capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 12th century and is home to well preserved stupas, frescoes and statues. While here, explore the rock temples at Gal Vihara and the Vatadage, an ancient structure with elaborate stone carvings, before returning to Sigiriya.

Day 5: Anuradhapura

Travel to the World Heritage city of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka's most celebrated ancient cities. Whilst here, visit the Sri Mada Bodhi Bo tree, over 2000 years old; the Ruwanweliseya dagoba and the Samadhi Buddha statue. Visit the Isurumuniya rock temple to visit its rock carvings dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Day 6: Spice Gardens & Kandy

Travel to the Buddhist city of Kandy visiting the Dambulla Rock Temple, which dates back to the 1st Century BC. Visit a spice garden and witness a cookery demonstration in Matale. Continue to Kandy.

Day 7: Explore Kandy

Visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens before continuing to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. We also explore the remains of the Royal Palace which is now the National Museum. Later, witness a cultural dance show with dinner in the evening.

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya

Travel to Nuwara Eliya by train, through the world's most picturesque scenery to the city known as Sri Lanka's little England. On arrival, visit a tea plantation and factory learning all about the manufacturing process, before exploring the town centre as you take in the race course, the interesting history of Hill Club Hotel, Gregory Lake and the Hindu Temple of Seetha Amman Kovil.

Day 9: Yala National Park

Drive to Yala National Park, home to a large number of elephants, leopards, sambhur, wild buffalo and over 130 bird species. Enroute visit Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, established by the Department of Wildlife Conservation for orphaned elephants.

Day 10: Explore Yala National Park

Enjoy a morning and evening jeep safari in Yala National Park.

Day 11: Hikkaduwa

Depart Yala and drive to Hikkaduwa. On the way, stop and visit the Hummanaya Blow Hole, Mulkirigala Rock Temple and Dikwella Wewurukannala Temple. After lunch stop to view the stilt fisherman at Welligama. Upon arrival in Hikkaduwa, check into your hotel for a two night stay.

Day 12: Discover Galle

Drive to Galle for a tour of the city. Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Dutch Fort, Galle Lighthouse and Dutch Reformed Church. Also known as Galle Fort, the Dutch Fort is one of the best preserved examples of 17th Century colonial fortifications in the world. Return to Ahungalla in the evening.

Day 13: Colombo

Travel to Colombo, stopping at Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery en route. The hatchery is home to Sri Lanka's pioneering sea turtle conservation project.

Day 14: Explore Colombo

Embark on a city tour of Colombo this morning. Explore Fort District, the historic centre of the city. Wander through Pettah Market and visit the Dutch Church of Wolvendhall, dating back to 1749, Kelaniya Buddhist Temple, a major pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees, and Colombo's finest museums.

Day 15: Fly Colombo to UK

Fly to the UK, arriving home later the same day.