Sri Lanka’s variety reveals itself throughout this journey, offering a clear sense of how much this small island holds. Highland scenery gives way to tea country, then to lowland forests and long stretches of southern coast. Along the route, you will encounter ancient sites, local traditions and some of the island’s most notable wildlife on safari.
Ulagalla’s 58 acre setting near Anuradhapura places you close to UNESCO sites and offers access to rural landscapes, lakes and wildlife
Early morning in Sigiriya provides the clearest light for exploring the 5th-century rock fortress and its far-reaching views across the plains
The train journey from Kandy to Hatton is one of Sri Lanka’s most scenic routes, running through highland tea estates, waterfalls and mountain passes
Yala’s varied habitats support leopard,elephant, sloth bear and significant birdlife, best explored on guided drives with trained naturalists
Weligama suits unhurried days, with easy reach of Galle Fort, cinnamon estates, surfing beaches and coastal walks
You will be met on arrival at Colombo Bandaranaike Airport and transferred to Wallawwa near Negombo for an overnight stay. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the hotel, a boutique retreat set within lush tropical gardens with a serene pool.
Travel through coconut estates and rural villages to the Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka’s ancient heartland,where you will spend three nights at Uga Ulagalla, an expansive estate with pool villas set amid gardens and rice fields. Day 3 begins with an early visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, rising dramatically from the plains. Explore its formal gardens before ascending to discover the sweeping views from King Kasyapa’s 5th-century citadel. In the evening, experience the spiritual calm of Anuradhapura by night. A further day at Ulagalla allows time to explore by bicycle, kayak, or horseback. The Nachaduwa sunset discovery drive also offers a glimpse into rural life, passing lakes, paddy fields and forests where monkeys, buffalo and wild elephant may be spotted.
Travel south to the Dambulla Cave Temples, famed for their Buddha statues, before visiting a private spice garden where cinnamon, pepper and vanilla flourish. Continue to Kandy, the last kingdom of the Sinhalese, for a two-night stay at Kings Pavilion. The next morning, explore local markets with a guide before joining the guide’s family for an authentic cookery experience. Later, visit Lankathilake Vihare, a fresco-adorned temple set on a rocky outcrop.
Take a scenic train journey through misty hill country from Kandy to Hatton, one of Sri Lanka’s great travel experiences. Blue mountains, cascading waterfalls and velvety tea estates unfold as the train winds towards Hatton. During your two-night stay at Ceylon Tea Trails, take time to explore the estate’s trails on foot or by mountain bike, indulge at the spa, take a guided tour of the working plantation and tea factory or simply absorb the sweeping views of the Bogawantalawa Valley.
Descend from the hills towards Sri Lanka’s southeast coast. Your base for the next two nights is Wild Coast Tented Lodge, a breathtaking safari camp that blends seamlessly into the dunes. Embark on evening and morning safaris at nearby Yala National Park, renowned for its high leopard density. Elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and a remarkable variety of birdlife inhabit its diverse landscapesof forest, grassland and lagoon.
After a final early-morning safari, travel west to Malabar Hill, a boutique gem located on a forested ridge with sweeping views. During your four-night stay, visit Galle for a guided walk through its UNESCO-listed fort, passing Dutch villas, ramparts and cobbled lanes rich in history. Optional activities include whale watching in Mirissa, cinnamon experiences, or surf lessons on nearby Weligama’s waves. On Day 15, transfer to the airport for your flight home, completing your Sri Lankan journey.