The Best of Sri Lanka: Culture, Wildlife & Coast

This carefully curated journey takes you through Sri Lanka’s most enchanting landscapes and experiences, staying at the country’s finest properties. From the ancient wonders of the Cultural Triangle to the serene tea plantations of the Hill Country, the wildlife of Yala, and the pristine beaches of Weligama, this itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and indulgence.

Kotugoda, Ancient Cities, Kandy, Hatton, Yala & Tangalle

14 nights private tour from GBP £8,100 per person

Journey highlights

The ultimate Sri Lankan adventure, staying at the best hotels and travelling in style between them
Set off by bike around Anuradhapura, one of the islands ancient capitals and awe at the ruins of ancient civilisations
Ultimate itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Ultimate Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences

Our tailor made journeys include:

Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
Private international airport transfers in destination
Your own private, English-speaking local guides
Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
Entrance to must-see local sites
Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support

When to visit

Best time to visit

Good time to visit

Average time to visit

The driest seasons are from December to March for the west & south and the Hill Country & from April to September for the ancient cities region. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. The weather doesn’t follow strict rules, though – it often seems to be raining where it should be sunny & sunny where it should be raining.

July/August is the time of the Kandy Esala Perahera, as well as Kataragama festival in the South.

Itinerary

Fly to Colombo

Day 1-2

Kotugoda: A Serene Start to Sri Lanka

Starting off the trip, you’ll have one night to relax and rest at The Wallawwa. This is a beautiful property and a lovely retreat to rest after your international flight, making sure that you are totally ready for the adventure ahead!

Accommodation: The Wallawwa ( 1 night )

Day 2-5

Ancient Cities: Stepping Back in Time

From here you’ll be whisked away to the Cultural Triangle with your private guide and chauffeur, where you will be spending your next three nights at Ulagalla, from which you can discover the fantastic ancient ruins of Sri Lanka’s first kingdoms. This is a spectacular part of the country and during your time here, we have included a private cycling trip through the UNESCO heritage site of Anuradhapura which is a brilliant way to explore this expansive area. Of course, no trip to the Cultural Triangle would be complete without a visit to Sigiriya Rock and we have included an early morning excursion for you, the best time to climb the rock whilst it is still cool and the light is beautiful.

Accommodation: Ulagalla ( 3 nights )

Day 5-7

Kandy: A Cultural Haven

Then, travel down to Kandy where you’ll be staying the next two nights at the charming Kandy House, featuring some of the best food to be found in the country. From the Kandy House, again with your private guide, venture out to visit the Temple of the Tooth, the Botanical Gardens and the Commonwealth War memorial – all major historical sites in Sri Lanka’s repertoire.

Accommodation: The Kandy House ( 2 nights )

Day 7-10

Hatton: Tea Country Bliss

Moving on you'll travel by train to the beautiful Hill Country and the famous Ceylon Tea Trails, where you can relax in colonial splendour, discover the history of the country's greatest export and trek through the lush plantations. The next three nights gives you a wonderful opportunity to relax on the itinerary and do as little or as much as you like. A highlight is walking around enjoying the verdant undulating countryside and watching the talented pickers at work before reclining in style while enjoying a traditional tea planters picnic lunch.

Accommodation: Ceylon Tea Trails ( 3 nights )

Day 10-12

Yala National Park: Land of the Leopard

Next, catch a flight south to Yala National Park, known for its high population of leopard. Spend your days out on safari drives, and in the evenings relax with dinner and drinks under the stars. For those who have a penchant for Sri Lankan food why not role up your sleeves and enjoy a cooking class at the camp and take the recipes home with you.

Accommodation: Chena Huts ( 2 nights )

Day 12-15

Weligama: Oceanfront Elegance

After all this action drive down to Weligama on the south coast where you will stay at Cape Weligama, the third Relais Chateaux on this epic itinerary. Though each of the three hotels has its own charm and style it is the continuity of exceptionally high service and flawless design that make them some of the best in the country. Here you’ll have three beautiful nights to end your unforgettable adventure, this luxurious retreat perched on the promontory with panoramic views out to the Indian Ocean is where you can relax and unwind, enjoying sumptuous spa treatments and world class cuisine.

For a truly unique addition to your stay, why not take to the skies for an unforgettable aerial whale-watching experience? Observe blue whales and sperm whales in their natural habitat from the air. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, this thrilling flight offers a faster and less disruptive way to see these magnificent creatures, along with breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s rugged southern coastline.

Accommodation: Cape Weligama ( 3 nights )

Property on the cliff side - Cape Weligama

Fly home from Colombo

We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itinerary is a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely bespoke to you.
Call us on 020 3918 3595 to start planning your holiday.

Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and includes international flights)

Departing	Price from^* Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers. Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type. Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.	Deposit from ^*	Enquire
December 2024	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
January 2025	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
February 2025	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
March 2025	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
April 2025	GBP £10,000	GBP £1,500	plan your trip
May 2025	GBP £8,100	GBP £1,200	plan your trip
June 2025	GBP £8,100	GBP £1,200	plan your trip
July 2025	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
August 2025	GBP £11,900	GBP £1,800	plan your trip
September 2025	GBP £10,000	GBP £1,500	plan your trip
October 2025	GBP £10,000	GBP £1,500	plan your trip
November 2025	GBP £10,000	GBP £1,500	plan your trip

December 2024
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
January 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
February 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
March 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
April 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £10,000
Deposit from*
GBP £1,500
May 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £8,100
Deposit from*
GBP £1,200
June 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £8,100
Deposit from*
GBP £1,200
July 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
August 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £11,900
Deposit from*
GBP £1,800
September 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £10,000
Deposit from*
GBP £1,500
October 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £10,000
Deposit from*
GBP £1,500
November 2025
Price from ^*

Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.

Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public holidays) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.

Solo traveller pricing is available upon request.
GBP £10,000
Deposit from*
GBP £1,500
plan your trip