A great escape for the traveller seeking a short holiday in Sri Lanka covering key Wildlife and Cultural highlights coupled with a fabulous beach stay in Maldives, making a perfect 12 nights’ rejuvenating adventure.
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 [November to April]. 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 crafts. Driving on to Sigiriya, be amazed at 5th century AD 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 MoreA 5 night stay on the pristine beaches of Maldives will change the pace after a full of diverse experiences in a week in Sri Lanka. An array of water & sea based experiences are waiting for you to keep you busy; if you wish. A hop to a nearby local island will make your holiday even more colourful with cultural highlights of the islanders.
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]
- 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 orphaned 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 gigantic Sigiriya Rock Fortress experiencing the traditional and modern day cultural diversities in Colombo, the Commercial Capital of Sri Lanka.
- A fabulous beach stay in Maldives with numerous excursions for you to choose.
1st & 2nd Nights - 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.
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 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 AD!
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.
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.
8th Night - Maldives
After gathering a diverse wilderness experience in the magical isle of Sri Lanka, it’s time for you to head to the Maldives for an idyllic beach vacation. You will be taken to Colombo Airport by your chauffeur, well in time to comfortably check-in to catch your flight to Male which will be about an hour. Upon your arrival at Velana International Airport in Male, our representative will greet you and take you to the speed boat dock or the domestic aerodrome to be transferred to your resort. Upon arrival you will have a chance to relax, unwind and just familiarise yourself with the various activities and facilities your resort offers.
9th to 12th Night : Maldives
For the next 4 days you have the option of completely unwinding, relaxing and enjoying the barefoot luxury of white sandy beaches of your island or to enjoy the luxuries of your resort: be it by the pool or activities organised by the staff. Delicious seafood is divine in the Maldives and you certainly may want to indulge! Alternatively, you may want to speak to the water sports centre or the front office of the resort to plan your days by actively trying out a variety of exciting aqua activities. Diving, snorkelling, fishing, sea kayaking and paddle boarding are the most popular choices. Additionally, you can go island hopping to discover how locals live or travel to Male for a shopping or souvenir trip.
If you enjoy exploring, then this is it. Diving is a central part of exploring Maldives, so if you are a diving enthusiast or doing it for the first time – here’s the most exciting chance to do so! Equipment is provided too. Hotels will organise diving sessions and also offer free diving lessons to learn the basics. [Please check the minimum cooling off time required after a flight before you attempt diving.] So if this is an activity you want to try, you might want to book and pay for it in advance, to make sure it’s all organised for you. Sighting marine life in the bright sunny conditions, you will love the way the sunlight lights up the waters and showcases manta rays, dolphins and turtles.
Snorkelling is another sought after activity to indulge in, in Maldives. Why not explore the underwater wonders hidden in the shallow waters of the Indian Ocean around the islands of Maldives? Whether you are an amateur or professional snorkeler, everyone can enjoy the experience as there are numerous snorkelling activities to suit and adapt to individual needs. Immense coral reefs with colourful marine life would be the best way to start with, or a snorkelling excursion in search for whale sharks, dolphins, manta rays, turtles or nurse sharks – for more advanced snorkelers or snorkelling professionals. So if this is an activity you want to try, you might want to book and pay for it in advance, to make sure it’s all organised for you.
Located in the Indian Ocean, Maldives is one of the best destinations for Big Game fishing in the world. It would be a great adventure for those keen on catching big fish like: tuna, dolphin fish, barracuda, rainbow runner, giant trevally and much more. So if this is an activity you want to try, you might want to book and pay for it in advance, to make sure it’s all organised for you. We are sure that you will try out bottom line fishing and enjoy traditional Maldivian fishing with a line and a hook. FIshing has always been connected with the lifestyle of Maldivians, it may well interest you to see how the local fisherfolk carried out their fishing, accompanied by their routine and singing.
Of course you may be the kind of person who loves a different type of thrill in water. Enjoy an array of exciting water sports, either nature or power watersports, with the support of the hotel’s well experienced crew. Get onto a canoe or a paddle board and ride in the shallow waters around your island. Or you might be tempted to take a jet-ski or a wakeboard and have a thrilling ride on the blue waters of the Indian Ocean. A speedboat ride to a nearby sandbank and relaxation could be another option for you to consider. So if this is an activity you want to try, you might want to book and pay for it in advance, to make sure it’s all organised for you.
After your adventurous holiday in Sri Lanka and a great beach stay in Maldives, it is time now to return home. After breakfast at your resort in Maldives, you will be transferred to Velana International Airport to board your flight depending on the flight schedule.
However, if you fancy experiencing city life for the afternoon, why not book an early departure and pop over to Male for some souvenir shopping and sightseeing? You may like to see and marvel at the Arabesque architecture of the Islamic Centre. The Centre showcases the ancient art of Maldivian stonemasonry at the Friday Mosque. The capital has some interesting streets, displaying colourful souvenirs and local craft shops which will tempt you to browse and pick up a thing or too.
What more to add?
- Early Check-ins or late Checkouts could be organised upon your flight schedules.
- This trip does not include a stay in Nuwara Eliya, up country. A stay could be added in between Udawalawe & Kandy.
- A seaplane transfer from Colombo Airport to Koggala (nearest to Galle – 45 minutes] could be arranged to provide quick transfer to the hotel.
- Extended beach stay in Sri Lanka or Maldives could be arranged on request.
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
$ 3,858
1-2 persons
$ 3,531
3-4 persons
$ 3,419
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.
Mango House Galle Fort
Mango House, a spacious Dutch colonial-style home in the centre of the famed Galle Fort, combines traditional elegance with a modern, edgy vibe.
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...
Fihalhohi Island Resort
Secluded by lush greenery and hundreds of shady coconut palms, Fihalhohi is the last exquisite island in South Male, perfectly located along the southern...
Plush
Accommodation
$ 4,651
1-2 persons
$ 4,323
3-4 persons
$ 4,212
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...
Meeru Island Resort and Spa
Meeru Island Resort, surrounded by a beautiful lagoon and long stretches of white, sandy beach, is the only Resort on the island of Meerufenfushi,...
Dreamy
Accommodation
$ 7,866
1-2 persons
$ 7,538
3-4 persons
$ 7,427
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.
Atmosphere Kanifushi
Atmosphere Kanifushi is a 35-minute seaplane ride from Male International Airport. Located in the stunning Lhaviyani Atoll, Atmosphere Kanifushi Maldives features stand-alone Beach villas...
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 (Sri Lanka):
- 7 nights accommodation. BB at all hotels except Big Game Camp Udawalawe (HB)/ Mahoora Camp Udawalawe (AI)
- Transportation in an air conditioned 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.
Included (Maldives):
- Meet and Greet Assistant Service at Male Airport by the representative of the respective hotel
- Combined or Direct Return Airport Transfers in a Speed Boat/Sea Plane/Domestic flight depending on the flight schedule and the respective resort in Maldives.
- 5 nights accommodation at the respective hotel in Maldives on double/twin sharing basis.
- Full Board Meal Plan during the stay in Maldives
- Prevailing Maldives Government Taxes
Not Included:
- Any International or Domestic flights (in Sri Lanka).
- Any Visa fee or ETA fee (Electronic Travel Authorisation).
- Any additional beverage or food.
- Early Check in or Late Check out charges at hotels.
- Cost of optional activities/sites (Whale Watching/ Galle Cinnamon experience)
- Any activity, excursion or additional services at the hotel in Maldives other than mentioned under inclusions.
- Any tips to the staff.
- Any expense in personal nature (telephone, laundry, hotel extra bills, etc.)
- Any other expense, other than those 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 hours
Colombo Street Food Experience
Experience Colombo through its colourful, aromatic, multicultural cuisines on this 3-hour evening walking tour.
Colombo
Negombo
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