A great escape for the traveller seeking a short holiday in Sri Lanka covering key Wildlife and Cultural highlights.
Your adventure begins within the walls of the Galle Dutch Fort. Then travel to Mirissa, to try encountering the world’s largest mammal; the Blue Whale. Moving to central Sri Lanka, you may see another wonderful giant, the Asian Elephant, in the wondrous Udawalawe Forest. A change in pace for you: try Sri Lankan cooking in ‘wild’ settings! Then relax and witness Tea Plucking, Rubber Tapping and mining of precious gemstones, in Ratnapura. Climbing to cool Kandy, you will explore the making of traditional arts and Driving on to Sigiriya, be amazed at 5th century engineering feats at the Sigiriya Rock Fortress – that sustained a kingdom! Finally, you will return to Colombo, the melting pot of diverse communities and cultures.
Read MoreMindful of minimum transfer time, we have handpicked hotels, for the duration of your break. Tasteful and comfortable – we are sure you will enjoy your hotel stays, as you travel across the island.
Ideal for:
Conveniently available throughout the year, this short journey is ideal for those who have busy schedules and are not able to take longer vacations or want to combine with another destination like Maldives or India. Solo Travellers/ Couples/ Friends / Small groups up to 6 persons / Families with Kids and Teenagers.
Highlights at glance
- A walk in the Living Heritage in Galle; Galle Dutch fort with your guide.
- Witnessing the world’s largest mammal Blue Whales in their natural habitat [best seen from November to March] alternatively live the cinnamon experience.
- Experience the wilderness in Udawalawe which is famous for Asian Elephants that could be seen in large herds throughout the year.
- Witness the life of 50 plus ophant baby elephants in the Elephant Transit Home where they will be released to the wild after becoming adults.
- Be a Chef in the Wilderness and learn the art of Sri Lankan cooking.
- A mini agro experience with Tea Plucking & rubber tapping in Rathnapura including witnessing the mining of precious gemstones.
- Exploring the cultural highlights blended with traditional arts & crafts in Kandy, the hill capital.
- Witness the ancient engineering marvels of the gigantic Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Experience the traditional and modern day cultural diversities in Colombo, the Commercial Capital of Sri Lanka.
1st & 2nd Night : Galle
Welcome to Sri Lanka! The start of many wonderful memories! On your arrival you will be picked up by our chauffeur who will be with you throughout the tour. The drive to Galle is about 2 ¼ hours on the highway. Upon arrival, you can decide to spend the rest of your day at the hotel relaxing or join your guide for a walk in the city. The next morning, you will have an early start as you take on a whale watching tour from the Mirissa harbour at around 6.00am! If you are travelling from April to October, your day will start off late, as you will do the Ceylon Cinnamon Experience tour instead of whale watching, and in the evening explore Galle Fort.
On arrival, your holiday in Sri Lanka will start with your transfer to the city of Galle. A picture book UNESCO heritage city that will mesmerise you with its many charms. Depending on what time you reach your hotel, you can relax here with the sea breeze, or venture on a walk into the city. Your guide will be happy to accompany you and show you around the boutique shops, restaurants, live music bars and quaint houses on cobblestone streets. Galle boasts of a museum you may like to visit, that offers an interesting historical insight of its past.
Depending on when you tour in Sri Lanka, you will leave early by 6-6:30am to go whale watching from the Mirissa harbour. This is an exciting adventure when you may sight Blue whales and Bottle-nosed dolphins. Or, you will go on the
Galle Cinnamon Experience; an interactive tour which gives you a sense of a cinnamon farmer’s life – visiting a beautiful, working cinnamon estate. Another option: you will take a walk in historical Galle Fort during your stay in Sri Lanka. Your guide will take you to local restaurants and craft shops where you’ll find batiks, brassware and jewellery.
3rd & 4th Nights : Udawalawe
After breakfast, you will head up to Udawalawe National Park, one of the best parks to see Asian Elephants, as it borders both the wet and dry zones. On the first day, you will get to visit the Udawalawe Transit Home, to see young ophant elephants fostered. You will end the day with an afternoon jeep Safari at the Udawalawe National Park. The next morning, you will take a nature walk followed by a cooking lesson guided by the camp host. Then after breakfast, your guide will take you to an ancient jungle monastery, dating back thousands of years. After lunch, it’s another guided Evening Safari – with a unique twist to it.
Be ready for an amazing experience at the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home. Haven for over 50 injured or orphaned baby elephants; you will see how they are nurtured before being released into the wild. It’s then time for your jeep Safari at the Udawalawe National Park. Home to over 600 elephants, sambar deer, wild boar and beautiful birds, this Safari is a must for things to do in Sri Lanka. Watch out for the pied cuckoo, booted eagle, Malabar pied hornbill – among other birds.
The next day, you will be a chef! On your holiday in Sri Lanka, you will treasure this! With the camp Chef by your side, experiment with local vegetables, fresh coconut and aromatic spices, and cook using traditional methods. After this entertaining activity, your guide will take you to an ancient monastery where monks still reside and meditate with minimum interaction with the outside world. You will head back for an Evening Safari at the Udawalawe National Park – which is so different by nightfall. By watering holes you will see elephants gathering for a night drink and watch out for nocturnal mammals, such as the jungle and fishing cats venturing out.
5th Night : Kandy
Time to change the scenery, after breakfast you will travel to Kandy via Ratnapura. Ratnapura is known as “Gem City” known for its share of gemstones, where gem mining has been an old enterprise here. And equally famous is Ratnapura for its low country tea. A bustling city that takes pride for its tea production, we have a tea plantation for you to visit. Then you will carry on to the hill city, Kandy, surrounded by mountains and blessed with cool weather, it is where the Temple of the Tooth Relic is located. You will reach Kandy by evening, to relax and rest at your hotel.
The wonder of your holiday in Sri Lanka extends beyond its changing landscape. In Ratnapura you will be tantalised by low country tea. We will take you on a tea experiencing tour and if you are familiar with different tea types, you will realise tea here is less aromatic but more malty in flavour than high grown tea. Then a quick stop to see how gem mining happens, and all the excitement of discovering gems! Then we will continue to Kandy where you will visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic and witness rituals and vibrant ceremonies carried out for worshippers.
6th Night: Sigiriya
Today you will travel from Kandy to the Cultural Triangle, a notable feature of your tour in Sri Lanka. Sigiriya, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa form the epicentre of Sri Lanka’s golden era, in the fields of: engineering, agriculture, literature, politics and social development. When you leave Kandy, you will first stop to visit a community which crafts traditional fans by hand and which are still widely used. We will reach Sigiriya, a World Heritage Site, by evening and you will get to climb the famous Lion Rock or Sigiriya Fortress, once home and safe haven to an ancient king Kashyapa. But you will be awed by the comprehensive planning of a palace and quarters for subjects and even landscaped gardens – executed in the 5th century BC!
Starting early from Kandy, we will take you to a village workshop to witness how ‘sesath’, a traditional large fan, is made. Handwoven, they symbolise prosperity and are still used today. You may like to design one yourself!
You will continue your drive to reach Sigiriya by early evening. The remains of gigantic sculptured lion paws will greet you at the start of the climb. You will ascend 600 metres to reach the zenith of the Lion Rock where you will be struck by the panoramic view and vantage point for a king. On descending, you will enjoy walking by once landscaped gardens with their own irrigation systems.
7th Night : Colombo
As we wind down your stay in Sri Lanka, today we will leave Sigiriya for Colombo; the commercial capital of Sri Lanka. A sharp contrast to Sigiriya, Colombo is a melting pot of cultural sights, communities, cuisine – shaped by the influence of the first Arab traders who discovered this coastal city centuries back. Enjoy a city walk or a tuk tuk ride in the evening, explore Colombo City, taste local food and experience Colombo’s urban local life. The following day you will be driven to the Airport with a collection of remarkable experiences to cherish for a very long time! And perhaps this will be a taster tour that will have you return, for a longer stay and for more adventure.
You will enjoy seeing Colombo’s centrepieces: Fort, where colonial era buildings stand alongside modern offices and apartments. Pettah, is a vibrant business hub set in a labyrinth of narrow roads, where you can find literally anything you can think of! The city has museums and art centres that showcase Sri Lanka’s history and diverse artistic expressions, in crafts, paintings, pottery and sculptured works. You may also like to casually sightsee Colombo by tuk tuk, tasting local and international cuisine or taking in the sea for the last time, at the Galle Face Green, a beautiful open space which overlooks the ocean.
Continue to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward journey.
What more to add?
- Early Check-ins or late Checkouts could be organized upon your flight schedules.
- This trip does not include a stay in tea country. A stay could be added in between Udawlawe & Kandy
- A seaplane transfer from Colombo Airport to Koggala (nearest to Galle – 45 minutes] could be arranged to provide a quick transfer to the hotel.
You may see the hotels which we have handpicked for you under each accomadation style. However, there are hundreds of other alternative properties for you to select if you wish to and you may mix and match hotels in different categories as well.
Modest
Accommodation
$ 2,084
1-2 persons
$ 1,725
3-4 persons
$ 1,611
5-6 persons
If you’re looking for a no-frills stay that’s easy on the wallet, and love to spend time with locals and explore the surroundings at your own pace, this is the perfect choice for you. This hotel style is wonderfully cosy, unique, mostly owner-run and provides you with a more personalised service.
Lady Hill Galle
The Lady Hill Hotel is located on the highest point of the historic port city of Galle. From here, you can enjoy a beautiful...
Big Game Udawalawe by Eco Team
The Big Game Safari Campsite at Udawalawe is set within dense jungle overlooking a man-made reservoir on the eastern boundary of the Udawalawe National...
Viyana Boutique Kandy
Overlooking Kandy, Lake Viyana Boutique Hotel is the ideal starting point for excursions to interesting sites in and around Kandy, or simply to unwind...
BOB Pidurangala
This retreat, which the villagers themselves have named "Kurulu Uyana" or Bird Park, is tucked away in 4 acres of forest at the base...
Fairway Colombo
Situated at the heart of Colombo’s Central Business District and entertainment hub, Fairway Colombo is a 4-star modern hotel that blends accessibility with great...
Plush
Accommodation
$ 2,308
1-2 persons
$ 1,950
3-4 persons
$ 1,836
5-6 persons
Indulgence without breaking the bank? Well, this is the category for you. Personalised and high-quality service, attention to detail, comfort and all modern amenities are hallmarks of this category, whilst being situated in some amazing locations.
The Fort Printers
The Printers building, which dates back to the 18th century, has operated as a college and then as the site of a conventional printing...
Big Game Udawalawe by Eco Team
The Big Game Safari Campsite at Udawalawe is set within dense jungle overlooking a man-made reservoir on the eastern boundary of the Udawalawe National...
Fox Resort Kandy
Built atop a cliff overlooking the beautiful hill capital of Sri Lanka, Fox Kandy by Fox Resorts offers picturesque views of the verdant hills...
Sigiriya Jungles
Escape to a world where you can live luxuriously and embark on explorations to learn more about Sri Lanka's fascinating history.
Colombo Court Hotel
The 32-room upscale Colombo Courtyard is a stylish, contemporary, and environmentally friendly hotel that works well as an affordable option in Colombo for leisure...
Dreamy
Accommodation
$ 4,117
1-2 persons
$ 3,758
3-4 persons
$ 3,644
5-6 persons
The absolute best in comfort and experience, these high-end properties will make your jaw drop! Unique designs, private plunge pools, personal butlers… the list goes on at these boutique properties. Luxury here is not about star ratings and amenities, it’s about being away from crowds and having authentic, personalised experiences.
Galle Fort Hotel
A trip to Sri Lanka isn't complete without spending a few days (or more) in Galle. Galle Fort Hotel is 6 minutes’ walk from...
Mahoora Udawalawe by Eco Team
Mahoora Tented Safari Camp Udawalawe is located in a thicket on the eastern boundary of the Udawalawe National Park, surrounded by bush forest.
Radh Hotel
A haven of serenity and unrivalled elegance, the Radh Hotel is magnificently set in Kandy's old hill capital and centrally located, making it an...
Water Garden Sigiriya
Explore secret gardens, meditate by a serene lake, or relax in a private plunge pool and take in the breathtaking view of the ancient...
Uga Residence
This Victorian townhouse once welcomed governors, maharajas, nobility, and the cream of Ceylon’s colonial society.
Everything you need to know about the tour
We’ve taken every possible measure to ensure your safety and comfort during this tour.
The hotels, tours, add-ons, guides and chauffeurs who are part of this programme are carefully vetted, so that you enjoy the highest quality standards and enjoy your tour with peace of mind. At any given point of the tour you will always be within reach of your guide or chauffeur, either physically or via phone (e.g: when you are out exploring on your own), for any assistance.
The important stuff:
Sri Lanka is a nation where religion and culture occupy an important place in the day-to-day lives of the local people. It is important to be aware of the customs and practices that are particular to the location you are visiting, so here are a few general tips to keep in mind during your travels. Your guide / chauffeur will assist you with more detailed information.
- If you plan on visiting any temples, ancient or current, you should wear clothing that covers your body from your shoulders down to your knees. Head coverings such as caps or helmets should be removed and shoes must be taken off at the entrance. White coloured clothing is generally a good choice to go with here.
- Some religious places do not allow photography or videography without prior permission and some may not allow it at all. Refer to signage or ask your chauffeur guide about the policy or protocol. Don’t try to photograph or take videos without permission.
- If you have any tattoos associated with Buddhism, Hinduism or Islamism, it’s best that you cover them completely in public places.
- Smoking is prohibited in indoor public places, workplaces and on public transport.
Included:
- 7 nights accommodation. BB at all hotels except at Udawalawe (HB)
- Transportation in an Airconditioned Car / Micro Van with an English Speaking Chauffeur throughout the tour including Airport Transfers.
- Jeep Safaris in the above mentioned National Park in a Private Jeep including the entry permit costs & government tracker fees.
- Entry Permits to all the sites, temples, museums & monuments mentioned in the itinerary.
- Costs of all experiences, community visits, hikes and village walks mentioned in the itinerary.
- Service charges at the hotels & current applicable taxes by the Sri Lankan Government.
Not Included:
- Any International or Domestic flights.
- Any Visa fee or ETA fee. (Electronic Travel Authorisation)
- Any additional beverage or food.
- Early Check-in or Late Checkout Charges at Hotels.
- Cost of optional activities/sites (Whale Watching/ Galle Cinnamon experience)
- Any tips to the staff.
- Any expense of personal requirements telephone, laundry, hotel extra bills etc.)
- Any additional expenses , other than mentioned in the inclusions list above.
About pricing:
Although it may sound strange for a tropical country, Sri Lankan hotels operate on seasonal rates. This is simply due to a particular region having attractions or weather that’s best enjoyed during a specific time of the year and also due to the demand coinciding with the European winter season. So it’s not uncommon to have two rates that apply on different dates in the same month.
But to make things less complicated for you, Experiential Journeys does things differently by giving you the lowest season ball-park rate on the website, and follows up with the exact rate upon receiving an inquiry or booking request along with the confirmed travel dates. You will not be charged anything until the final price is agreed upon.
Experiential Journeys is an Australian based company and uses AUD as the main currency. We serve a global community of travellers predominantly from New Zealand, U.K., U.S.A., Canada & U.A.E.
Experience
Possible experience in this tour
Some of these experiences are already included in the tour you are looking at, either as a full length or time limited activity. You have the freedom to pick out the ones you want during your tour and the extent to how you want to experience it.
2 - 3 Hours
Galle Fort with a Storyteller
Discover world heritage Galle Fort with a one-of-a-kind host.
Galle
Tangalle & South Coast
Bentota & West Coast
5 - 6 Hours
Whale Watching Mirissa
Experience the kiss of salty air as you journey into the Indian Ocean, to one of the world’s best whale hotspots. See it all...
Galle
Tangalle & South Coast
4 Hours
Majestic Beast Safari – Udawalawe National Park
Observe endless herds of wild elephants roaming the grasslands of Udawalawe National Park – the world’s best place to guarantee elephant sightings on every...
Udawalawe
3 - 4 Hours
Ceylon Tea Experience at a Working Tea Plantation
Experience the art of renowned Ceylon tea-making by visiting a beautiful tea garden and an award-winning factory.
Kandy
Nuwara Eliya
Ella
Knuckles
3 - 4 hours
Colombo City Walk… From the Fort to the Crocodile Gate
Colombo, a city with a soul, is the heart of Sri Lanka’s capital city. Experience its warmth and grandeur through a fascinating day tour...
Colombo
Negombo
3 hours
Colombo Street Food Experience
Experience Colombo through its colourful, aromatic, multicultural cuisines on this 3-hour evening walking tour.
Colombo
Negombo