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25,000+ trip reviews, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5.
“
A diverse and interesting tour. The heat was a struggle but free time provided pool and relaxation time.
Anonymous | Traveled in April
5 - Excellent
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CO2 emissions resulting from all trips on Bookmundi will be offset via investments in carbon reduction projects.
Explore Colombo, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park and Galle
Visit Sigiriya Fortress, Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park, Dambulla Cave Temple, Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, Tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya and Galle Fort
See Kandy Traditional Dance Performance
Colombo: One of Asia’s oldest hotels, the Galle Face Hotel has been a part of Colombo’s history since 1864. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, it has welcomed royalty, writers and world leaders, with its colonial architecture and timeless traditions reflecting Sri Lanka’s past. From its historic halls to the flag-lowering ceremony at sunset, this hotel offers you more than a stay—it’s a piece of the city’s story.
Colombo: Explore Colombo on foot, where history and modern life sit side by side. You'll visit Independence Square, a symbol of Sri Lanka’s freedom, before weaving through the lively streets of Pettah. Stop at the Red Mosque, a striking landmark, then step into Gangaramaya Temple, known for its mix of architectural styles. You'll pass the old and new Parliament buildings before viewing the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, a gift from China.
Sigiriya: Climb to the top of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a royal citadel that towers over the jungle. You'll pass ancient frescoes and the lion’s paws before reaching the summit, panoramic views make the ascent worthwhile.
Polonnaruwa: This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Explore the Royal Palace complex, walk through the ancient Quadrangle and see the Gal Vihara, where four massive Buddha statues are carved from a single granite slab, a remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.
Dambulla: Step into Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 150 Buddha statues and centuries-old murals. Sitting high above the plains, this sacred site has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years.
Kandy: Visit one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites, where a tooth believed to belong to the Buddha, Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic, is kept inside a golden casket. Walk through the temple’s halls, see its detailed carvings and take in the atmosphere of this deeply spiritual place.
Kandy: Watch a vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage as Kandyan dancers take the stage. Once performed in royal courts and sacred rituals, this energetic tradition comes to life with rhythmic drumming, acrobatic leaps and striking costumes. Fire-breathers and drummers add to the spectacle, making it an unforgettable experience.
Nuwara Eliya: Wind through Sri Lanka’s hill country on one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Rolling tea plantations, misty mountains and cascading waterfalls unfold outside your window as the train climbs towards Nuwara Eliya, the heart of the island’s tea industry.
Nuwara Eliya: Visit a Ceylon tea estate to see firsthand how Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea is made. Walk through the plantations, watch the leaves being processed and learn about the different stages of production, finishing with a freshly brewed cup.
Nuwara Eliya: Explore Nuwara Eliya, a town shaped by its British colonial past. Stroll past the Tudor-style post office, through the landscaped paths of Victoria Park and to Gregory Lake. Stop by the historic Grand Hotel and the exclusive Hill Club, both echoes of a bygone era.
Tissamaharama: Stop in Tissamaharama to see how Sri Lanka’s famous buffalo curd is made. Walk through the farm, watch fresh milk strained and boiled before it’s set to ferment in clay pots. Finish with a taste: thick, creamy curd topped with sweet treacle, a simple yet delicious treat.
Yala National Park: Venture into Yala National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s most diverse wildlife on a guided game drive. Keep your camera ready because this is one of the best places in the world to spot leopards in the wild.
Galle: Along the shores of Weligama, see one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights, stilt fishermen balancing on wooden poles, casting their lines into the Indian Ocean. This centuries-old tradition, passed down through generations, is a testament to the island’s deep connection to the sea. Watch as they skilfully fish in the shallows, a unique and timeless practice found only in this region.
Discover the history of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the Dutch-built ramparts, past colonial-era buildings, cafes and boutiques. Visit the famous Galle Lighthouse, the oldest in Sri Lanka and learn how this centuries-old fort has shaped the city and its people.
Galle: Join Mrs Shahira Mahuroof in her Galle home for a homemade Sri Lankan lunch, filled with flavours and family traditions. As she prepares local dishes, hear stories of her life and the cultural influences that shape her cooking. A warm, welcoming experience that offers a taste of Sri Lankan hospitality.
Galle: Visit Sri Lanka’s first sea turtle hatchery, founded in 1978, to learn about efforts to protect endangered species. A conservationist or caretaker will guide you through the centre’s work, from hatchling care to rehabilitation. Depending on the season, you may witness a hatching or turtle release, a reminder of the impact conservation can have on marine life. Your visit directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
Sigiriya: Climb to the top of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a royal citadel that towers over the jungle. You'll pass ancient frescoes and the lion’s paws before reaching the summit, panoramic views make the ascent worthwhile.
Polonnaruwa: This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Explore the Royal Palace complex, walk through the ancient Quadrangle and see the Gal Vihara, where four massive Buddha statues are carved from a single granite slab, a remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.
Dambulla: Step into Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 150 Buddha statues and centuries-old murals. Sitting high above the plains, this sacred site has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years.
Kandy: Visit one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites, where a tooth believed to belong to the Buddha, Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic, is kept inside a golden casket. Walk through the temple’s halls, see its detailed carvings and take in the atmosphere of this deeply spiritual place.
Kandy: Watch a vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage as Kandyan dancers take the stage. Once performed in royal courts and sacred rituals, this energetic tradition comes to life with rhythmic drumming, acrobatic leaps and striking costumes. Fire-breathers and drummers add to the spectacle, making it an unforgettable experience.
Nuwara Eliya: Wind through Sri Lanka’s hill country on one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Rolling tea plantations, misty mountains and cascading waterfalls unfold outside your window as the train climbs towards Nuwara Eliya, the heart of the island’s tea industry.
Nuwara Eliya: Visit a Ceylon tea estate to see firsthand how Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea is made. Walk through the plantations, watch the leaves being processed and learn about the different stages of production, finishing with a freshly brewed cup.
Nuwara Eliya: Explore Nuwara Eliya, a town shaped by its British colonial past. Stroll past the Tudor-style post office, through the landscaped paths of Victoria Park and to Gregory Lake. Stop by the historic Grand Hotel and the exclusive Hill Club, both echoes of a bygone era.
Tissamaharama: Stop in Tissamaharama to see how Sri Lanka’s famous buffalo curd is made. Walk through the farm, watch fresh milk strained and boiled before it’s set to ferment in clay pots. Finish with a taste: thick, creamy curd topped with sweet treacle, a simple yet delicious treat.
Yala National Park: Venture into Yala National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s most diverse wildlife on a guided game drive. Keep your camera ready because this is one of the best places in the world to spot leopards in the wild.
Galle: Along the shores of Weligama, see one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights, stilt fishermen balancing on wooden poles, casting their lines into the Indian Ocean. This centuries-old tradition, passed down through generations, is a testament to the island’s deep connection to the sea. Watch as they skilfully fish in the shallows, a unique and timeless practice found only in this region.
Discover the history of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the Dutch-built ramparts, past colonial-era buildings, cafes and boutiques. Visit the famous Galle Lighthouse, the oldest in Sri Lanka and learn how this centuries-old fort has shaped the city and its people.
Galle: Join Mrs Shahira Mahuroof in her Galle home for a homemade Sri Lankan lunch, filled with flavours and family traditions. As she prepares local dishes, hear stories of her life and the cultural influences that shape her cooking. A warm, welcoming experience that offers a taste of Sri Lankan hospitality.
Galle: Visit Sri Lanka’s first sea turtle hatchery, founded in 1978, to learn about efforts to protect endangered species. A conservationist or caretaker will guide you through the centre’s work, from hatchling care to rehabilitation. Depending on the season, you may witness a hatching or turtle release, a reminder of the impact conservation can have on marine life. Your visit directly supports the United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 14: Life Below Water.
What's Included
Accommodation
Cherrypicked hotels, all tried and trustedAll hotel tips, charges and local taxesOn occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Meals
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Transport
Luxury airconditioned coach with WiFi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Guide
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
Others
All porterage and restaurant gratuitiesMustsee sightseeingAudio headsets for flexible sightseeingOptional Experiences and free time
A diverse and interesting tour. The heat was a struggle but free time provided pool and relaxation time.
Itinerary
This Best of Sri Lanka tour takes you through the island’s ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural traditions. Stand before the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Travel by train through tea country, search for elephants and leopards on a Yala National Park game drive and walk the historic streets of Galle Fort.
day 1Arrival Colombo
Touch down in Colombo and transfer to your Stays with Stories hotel, the Galle Face Hotel, a landmark with a rich colonial past and a storied guest list that includes royalty and world leaders. After settling in, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner featuring Sri Lankan-style hoppers, a type of bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour, an opportunity to toast to the journey ahead.
