Mystical Sri Lanka: Temples, Elephants & Tea Trails

FLIGHT DETAILS: SQ232/SQ468 Sydney - Colombo via Singapore 12:15/23:30 (flight details are subject to change)

Ayubowan! On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, we meet our National Guide and transfer to Colombo. Sri Lanka’s lively capital blends colonial charm with modern energy, from oceanfront promenades to historic streets.

Daily: No meals

Discover Colombo’s fascinating contrasts today. Explore the historic Fort district and wander through bustling Pettah market, alive with colour and spice aromas. Visit a Hindu kovil adorned with intricate carvings before continuing to Gangaramaya Temple, one of the capital’s most important Buddhist sites. The city’s colonial past and contemporary energy blend seamlessly throughout our exploration. This evening, gather with fellow travellers for a welcome cocktail, celebrating the beginning of our shared Sri Lankan adventure in this dynamic coastal metropolis.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, journey inland toward Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. The scenery transitions from lively city streets to rural villages, lush rice paddies and forested landscapes. We arrive in Habarana and check in to our tranquil nature resort set beside a serene lake. The afternoon is at leisure to relax, enjoy the pool or stroll through tropical gardens where birdlife thrives. Embrace the peaceful atmosphere and prepare for the remarkable heritage and wildlife experiences awaiting us in the days ahead.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, we travel with our private guide to Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore ancient palaces, shrines and Buddha statues. Continue to Priyamali Gedara for a traditional village lunch. In the afternoon, enjoy a private jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, famous for elephants and birdlife, before returning to Habarana at sunset.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Explore rural life on a private 4x4 village tour in Habarana. Enjoy traditional Vannama dance lessons with a local teacher, learn to prepare festive sweets like kokis and weli thalapa, and visit Baby Nona to observe herbal oilmaking traditions. Discover local craftsmanship at an ekel broom workshop before savouring an authentic village lunch at Elephant Watch Hut. Later, we return to our hotel for leisure time.

Daily: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Today we depart for Kandy, stopping at the UNESCO-listed Dambulla Cave Temple. Explore remarkable cave shrines adorned with centuries-old murals and Buddha statues. Continue to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s last royal capital nestled among misty hills. Visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites. Experience the spiritual atmosphere as devotees offer flowers and prayers.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

We begin our day at the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, known for towering palms, orchids, and riverside views. In the afternoon, enjoy a hands-on Kandyan drumming experience, learning traditional rhythms used in rituals and festivals with expert guidance. This cultural session offers insight into Sri Lanka’s heritage.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we board a scenic hill-country train from Kandy to Nanu Oya - one of the most picturesque rail journeys in Asia. Pass cascading waterfalls, mist-covered mountains and endless emerald tea plantations. Upon arrival we meet our guide and continue to Nuwara Eliya, often referred to as “Little England.” Check in to our mountain resort and enjoy the crisp highland air. This evening is at leisure surrounded by serene hill-country landscapes.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Our day begins with a visit to a renowned tea estate nestled in the cool highlands. Learn about the journey from delicate hand-plucked leaves to the finished Ceylon brew during a guided factory tour. Conclude with a tasting session overlooking rolling plantations. In the afternoon, indulge in traditional high tea at the historic Grand Hotel, embracing colonial elegance. We return to our hotel and relax, surrounded by misty valleys and scenic mountain vistas.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

After breakfast, descend from the misty highlands toward Sri Lanka’s southeastern plains. Watch as landscapes shift dramatically from cool mountains to dry scrub jungle and open savannah. Arrive near Yala National Park and check into our nature-inspired resort. The afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool or simply enjoy the peaceful wilderness surroundings in preparation for tomorrow’s safari adventure.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

We rise early for a jeep safari in Yala National Park, famed for one of the world’s highest leopard densities. Explore diverse ecosystems of lagoons, rocky outcrops and dense jungle. Alongside elusive leopards, we may encounter elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles and vibrant birdlife. After our wildlife adventure, we return to the hotel by late morning. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and reflect on our unforgettable safari experience.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Travel west today along Sri Lanka’s scenic southern coastline toward historic Galle. Upon arriving at our beachfront resort overlooking the Indian Ocean, we check in. The afternoon is at leisure to relax by the infinity pool, stroll along golden sands or simply enjoy ocean views from our balcony. Feel the gentle sea breeze as we unwind in this coastal paradise rich in colonial heritage and natural beauty.

Daily: Breakfast & Dinner

Today we explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort with a knowledgeable local guide. Wander cobblestone streets lined with colonial villas, churches and boutique galleries. Learn about Portuguese, Dutch and British influences that shaped this fortified city. Discover charming cafés and artisan shops tucked within ancient ramparts. This afternoon is at leisure to explore independently or relax at the resort. Optional mask painting offers creative insight into Sri Lanka’s traditional craftsmanship.

Daily: Breakfast

This morning we have an early departure to Mirissa for a memorable marine life experience. Venture into the deep blue Indian Ocean in search of majestic blue whales, sperm whales (The best season for whale watching in Sri Lanka is from November to April) and playful dolphins (seasonal sightings). Witnessing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is a truly unforgettable experience. Return to Galle and enjoy the afternoon at leisure - relax by the pool, indulge in a spa treatment or savour sunset overlooking the ocean.

Daily: Breakfast

Today is at leisure before a late evening transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for onward departure.

FLIGHT DETAILS: SQ469/SQ211 Colombo - Sydney via Singapore 00:45/21:15

Daily: Breakfast

We arrive home with lasting memories of of cultural wonders, scenic landscapes, wildlife encounters and warm Sri Lankan hospitality.