This holiday will take you on a quick journey of discovery of Sri Lanka’s cultural highlights, and along the way you will have exciting encounters with wildlife, visits to historic attractions and plenty of delicious cuisines!
Meet fisherfolk in the town of Negombo and sample the freshest seafood; explore the ancient kingdoms of Polonnaruwa and Sigiriya and unravel their mysteries; witness sacred rituals in Kandy and explore a world famous botanical garden; pluck fresh tea leaves and learn the art of the perfect brew in the cool hills of Nuwara Eliya; watch safely from a distance as a leopard stalks its prey in the jungle; indulge in golden sunshine on soft sandy beaches; and experience the multi-cultural smorgasbord of cuisines, arts and architecture all around the island!
Read MoreYour accommodation will consist of handpicked hotels, designed to minimise time spent in travel, so that you can have the maximum time to focus on your Sri Lankan cultural holiday and enjoy your hotel, destinations, and the amazing cuisine in the area.
Ideal for:
Anyone who would want to experience and explore Sri Lanka. Recommended for Solo Travellers / Couples / Friends / Families with kids and teenagers / Small groups consisting of friends and family.
Highlights at glance
- Examine the amazing architecture in the ancient kingdoms of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa.
- Encounter ancient engineering marvels and breath-taking panoramas at the 5th century Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
- Witness age-old Buddhist rituals in the UNESCO World Heritage city of Kandy
- Explore the historic caves in the Dambulla Cave Temple, which contain paintings, statues and relics accumulated over a period of 2,000 years.
- Stroll through the 650-year-old Royal Botanical Gardens, featuring more than 4000 species of plants.
- Journey into the hills, visit a tea plantation, and tour a tea factory.
- Relax on golden sandy beaches and experience the vibrant marine life of the West Coast.
- Stay at a Tented Safari Camp bordering the Wilpattu National Park, experience guided safaris and a delicious BBQ dinner served by a roaring campfire.
- Experience regional culinary specialities and engage in culinary lessons with specialist chefs.
1st Night - Negombo
Ayubowan! Welcome to your cultural holiday to Sri lanka. Your first night will be spent at the coastal fishing town of Negombo which is a short distance away from the airport. Although your time here will be brief, there is much to explore here, either on your own or with your trusty personal chauffeur. With golden beaches, churches and buildings influenced by Portuguese, Dutch and British colonisation, art galleries and a fascinating mix of cuisines, Negombo is a great place to get lost in and make memories.
The first day of your private, cultural tour of Sri Lanka can be enjoyed at your own pace. You will be picked up from the airport by your private chauffeur and taken to your hotel. If you arrive during the day, you can visit the local art galleries to view their amazing collections, explore the town, go on a boat ride along the famous Dutch canal and of course, catch some sun on the wide, golden beaches. At night, the best place to visit is ‘Hotel Road’, which is packed with bars, seafood restaurants and hotels. You can do all of these activities by yourself or accompanied by your chauffeur.
2nd Night - Wilpattu
You’re headed to the vast jungles of Wilpattu next! The largest National Park in Sri Lanka has a fantastically diverse population of wildlife, and is a great place to see Leopards, Sloth Bears, Elephants and more during your Private Safari in the Park. Your accommodation will be quite unique during this leg of the journey as you will be staying in a tent, glamping style, with all the modern amenities. The secure campsite is situated right on the border of the Park, which means that there will be plenty of safe encounters without even leaving the camp premises.
After an early breakfast we will leave Negombo and head to Wilpattu with stops along the way to enjoy fresh, exotic fruits and refreshing King Coconut. The drive to the safari camp bordering the Wilpattu National Park is quite scenic and you may see some wildlife along the way. After a brief exploration of the campgrounds, followed by a delicious authentic Sri Lankan lunch, you will be taken on your afternoon safari in a private jeep, along with a professional and experienced naturalist and tracker. At night you will be treated to a bbq dinner under the stars served by a roaring campfire!
3rd & 4th Nights - The Cultural Triangle
Your cultural holiday continues with a visit to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first capital city. Dating back to the 4th century BCE, Anuradhapura was probably the greatest monastic city of the ancient world and was a proud political capital that dominated the country for over 1,300 years. The marvels continue at Polonnaruwa, which you will visit on the following day. This sprawling ancient city is dotted with palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. During this leg of the tour, you will also visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Complex water features, landscaped gardens, amazing 360 degree views and many mysteries await you here.
After breakfast you will engage in a private culinary lesson with the chef, where you will learn to make a couple of traditional Sri Lankan dishes and then head to Anuradhapura. There you will visit: Ruwanwelisaya – one of the world’s tallest ancient monuments which houses the Buddha’s relics, Lovamahapaya – a nine storied skyscraper of the ancient world, Isurumuniya – famous for its intriguing carvings, Kuttam Pokuna and Eth Pokuna – elaborately constructed bathing ponds, the Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi – a 2,250 year-old sacred Bo tree grown from the southern branch of the sacred Bo tree under which the Buddha gained enlightenment, and numerous other attractions.
After breakfast, your cultural holiday continues at the UNESCO World Heritage City of Polonnaruwa. Here you will see strong Indian influences melding with a growing Sri Lankan identity in the architecture, art and sculpture of this sprawling ancient city. At lunch you will be treated to an authentic clay pot meal experience that is packed with delicious Sri Lankan dishes and sweets. The visit to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is set for the late afternoon. After exploring the beautifully landscaped gardens, gravity driven fountains, and architecture, you can head up the rock to see the famous Sigiriya Frescoes. The climb to the top is timed to view the glorious sunset and panoramic views.
5th Night - Kandy
On the way to Kandy, a short distance from Sigiriya, is the town of Dambulla. Although it is an innocuous looking town, it has enormous economic and religious significance, so there is much to see here. The 2,000 year-old Dambulla Cave Temple, and the massive fresh produce trading hub, are a couple of the major highlights in this area. Kandy, the hill country capital city of the last Sri Lankan King, is full of legends, mediaeval palaces, and sacred temples. The famous 650-year-old Royal Botanical Gardens, which features more than 4,000 species of plants, is located adjacent to this city.
After breakfast you will visit the Dambulla fruit & vegetable market which is a massive hub for fresh produce trading. After touring the market and sampling various produce, you will head over to the Dambulla Cave Temple. You can explore the 5 sacred caves of this World Heritage Site and also climb Dambulla Rock to enjoy the panoramic views. In Kandy you will visit the impressive 60-hectare Royal Botanical Gardens and in the evening you will head to the Sri Dalada Maligawa, where the sacred relic of a tooth belonging to Lord Buddha is kept, and witness a daily sacred ritual known as Thewawa.
6th Night - Nuwara Eliya
Nestled high up in the hills, under the shadow of Sri Lanka’s tallest mountain, is the quaint old town of Nuwara Eliya. Tea estate draped mountains, waterfalls, delicious food, cold weather, hot tea, warm and friendly people and colonial architecture are just some of the highlights of this area. It’s a great place for relaxing and taking life one day at a time. It is also a great place to sample unique cuisines, experience different cultures, and understand just how an innocuous green tea leaf turns into a sought after cup of deliciousness! Nuwara Eliya will definitely be a most memorable location during your cultural tour of Sri Lanka.
Setting off from Kandy on your cultural tour, your first stop will be for a chat with some members of the tea plucker community. Here you will get to know their way of life and understand the art of plucking the perfect tea leaves. Then you will indulge in a warm cuppa at a local tea boutique before heading to a Hindu temple to gain an understanding of the religion and culture, and receive blessings. You will then visit a traditional craft community that makes drums & brassware and try your hand at these crafts. The last stop is at a tea factory, where you will find out how tea goes from being a leaf on a bush, to a warm cup of golden goodness!
7th Night - Bentota
It’s time to turn up the excitement levels even further and get the adrenaline flowing! An adventurous spirit is all you need for your first stop – Kitulgala. Although a great destination in itself, Kitulgala is most famous for White Water Rafting experiences and that’s exactly what you will be doing here! Bentota, situated on the West Coast of Sri Lanka, is a popular haunt for snorkelling, diving, sailing, windsurfing, and water-skiing. The wide golden beaches and inviting warm waters of the Indian Ocean are great for relaxing and getting some sun as well, and so, Bentota will be the perfect place to end your holiday in Sri Lanka.
Setting off after breakfast, you will arrive towards mid-morning in Kitulgala. The Grade 3 rapids present a good challenge, with plenty of fun and excitement for beginner to intermediate level rafters. Safety protocols will be strictly adhered to during this ride and a training session will be held for all before embarking on the ride. The rafting experience will be followed by an authentic Sri Lankan lunch and you will head to Bentota thereafter. At Bentota, you are free to engage in some fun watersports and your hotel will help to arrange these activities.
We’ve reached the end of your 7-night cultural discovery holiday and it is time to depart. Your chauffeur will meet you at the hotel lobby and take you to Colombo Airport in time to catch your departure flight.
What more to add?
- Early Check-ins or late Checkouts (organised upon confirmation of your flight schedules).
- Additional nights in any of the locations.
- Nighttime Loris observation trail in Sigiriya.
- Additional Safaris in Wilpattu National Park (requires an additional night stay).
- Additional nights in Bentota (beach stay).
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
$ 2,022
1-2 persons
$ 1,651
3-4 persons
$ 1,548
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.
Morning Star Guest House
Set in Negombo, this property is a 2-minute walk from the Negombo beach.
Big Game Wilpattu by Eco Team
On the edge of a lake and surrounded by bush woodland, the campsite is situated closer to the Wilpattu National Park's southern limit.
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...
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...
Hill Club Nuwara Eliya
The Hill Club is an exclusive members only Club, established in 1876, by the British Planters, and continues as a prestigious destination set in...
The Habitat Kosgoda
Looking to escape the city views to a glorious island paradise? We invite you to satiate your wanderlust and acquaint yourself with The Habitat...
Plush
Accommodation
$ 2,631
1-2 persons
$ 2,260
3-4 persons
$ 2,156
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.
Villa Hundira Negombo
Villa Hundira is a private and unique lagoon side villa nestled in the back roads of the Negombo lagoon, located just 20 minutes from...
Big Game Wilpattu by Eco Team
On the edge of a lake and surrounded by bush woodland, the campsite is situated closer to the Wilpattu National Park's southern limit.
Amaara Forest Sigiriya
Amaara Forest Hotel Sigiriya is ideal for getting away from the city and is nestled in 22 acres of thick forest.
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...
Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Situated on Nuwara Eliya Hill, adjacent to the Golf Course and surrounded by cool tropical greenery, akin to an English summer, the Grand Hotel...
Muse Bentota
Formerly named "Taru Villas - Taprobana", this intimate villa on the beach, is located next door to "Taru Villas - Rock Villa" in Bentota.
Dreamy
Accommodation
$ 4,165
1-2 persons
$ 3,794
3-4 persons
$ 3,691
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.
Jetwing Lagoon
Jetwing Lagoon, an innovative Ayurveda & wellness resort, is an attractive and stylish five-star destination that offers unforgettable experiences.
Mahoora Wilpattu by Eco Team
At Mahoora Tented Safari Camps Wilpattu, you can live in a small, 8-acre private wildlife sanctuary that mixes modern conveniences with the wilderness of...
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...
Stone House Kandy
The Stone House is located in Kandy, 3.5 km from Kandy City Center Shopping Mall and 5 km away from Kandy Museum.
Langdale Boutique Hotel
Another delightful offering from the boutique collection by Amaya, Langdale Boutique Hotel is a cheerful, laid-back hotel in aon old British colonial-style, 12 kms...
Saman Villas
Close by to Saman Villas is a fishing village but you would not know it, the only sounds are sea gulls' cries and the...
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:
- Accommodation for 7 nights (BB), except at Big Game Camp Wilpattu (HB) / Mahoora Camp Wilpattu (All inclusive). All accommodation is on a Double or Twin sharing basis.
- Transportation via air-conditioned car / micro van with an English speaking chauffeur throughout the tour including Airport Transfers.
- Chauffeur’s accommodation, meals and fees.
- Jeep Safari in the Wilpattu National Park in a Private Jeep including private guide, 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 & applicable taxes by the Sri Lankan Government at the time of booking.
Not Included:
- Any International or Domestic flights.
- Any Visa fee or ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) fee.
- Any additional beverage or food.
- Early Check in or Late Checkout Charges at Hotels.
- Cost of optional activities / sites.
- Tips to the staff.
- Any mandatory supplement by the government.
- Any expenses of a personal nature (telephone, laundry, hotel extra bills, etc.).
- Any other expense, other than those mentioned in the inclusions list above.
- Single room supplement.
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.
4 Hours
Leopards and Sloth Bears – Wilpattu National Park
Observe leopards and sloth bears over 131,000 hectares of forest and wetlands at Wilpattu National Park, visited by fewer jeeps in comparison to Yala.
Wilpattu
Anuradhapura
4 hours
The Human Family Meets The Monkey Family
Experience a unique and remarkable opportunity to meet the primate actors of Disney’s Monkey Kingdom amidst the remains of the mediaeval capital.
Polonnaruwa
Sigiriya
Dambulla
2 - 3 Hours
A Current Affair: White Water Rafting in Kitulgala
Ride the white waters of the Kelani River as it stumbles through a rocky gorge in Kitulgala, and take on the rapids from the...
Nuwara Eliya
Kandy
Sinharaja