Splendours of Sri Lanka
14 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Colombo, Chilaw, Anuradhapura, Wilpattu National Park, Habarana, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Horton Plains National Park, Wadduwa
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SCN
Recommended For:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 18
Physical rating:
Low
Age range:
15-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Private Available:
Request A Private Tour
From:
$3630
$3448 (USD)
including Flights from the UK
The Big ADVENTURE Sale: -$181
Tour Overview
This group tour for solo travellers explores Sri Lanka’s famed Cultural Triangle and beyond. Admire ancient cities, scenic hill country, man-made marvels and abundant wildlife. Your journey includes safaris in search of wild elephants and leopards, a visit to the UNESCO-listed rock fortress of Sigiriya, and a relaxing stay on a palm-fringed beach.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Fly To Colombo
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Overnight flight from London (regional connections available) to Colombo with Sri Lankan Airlines.
Day 2: Chilaw
Location: Chilaw
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Land in Sri Lanka's cosmopolitan capital and transfer to the Anantaya Hotel (or similar) in Chilaw for 1 night. This evening get to know your fellow travellers over a welcome dinner.
Day 3: Anuradhapura
Location: Anuradhapura
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive to the region of Anuradhapura for a 3-night stay at the Forest Rock Garden Resort (or similar). En route stop at Wilpattu National Park for an afternoon wildlife safari in search of leopards and sloth bears. The park is the oldest and largest wildlife park in Sri Lanka and is characterised by its open grasslands and dense jungle scrub. As well as leopards and sloth bears, you may also be able to spot elephants, mugger crocodiles and an array of endemic birds.
Day 4: Wilpattu National Park •Anuradhapura
Location: Wilpattu National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise early to explore Wilpattu when the wildlife is at its most active. Return to your resort for breakfast and to rest before taking a further safari in the afternoon.
Day 5: Anuradhapura
Location: Anuradhapura
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Explore Sri Lanka's first ancient capital, Anuradhapura, which was established around the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree, said to be the oldest tree planted by hand in the world. The city was the capital for nearly 1,500 years and has a beautiful array of Buddhist shrines and relics waiting to be explored. Return to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure.
Day 6: Habarana
Location: Habarana
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Continue your exploration of Sri Lanka's famed Cultural Triangle by transferring to Habarana for a 2-night stay at the Cinnamon Lodge. This afternoon learn authentic local cooking techniques and dishes with an interactive culinary class.
Day 7: Sigiriya • Polonnaruwa
Location: Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Visit one of Sri Lanka's most iconic sights this morning - the Unesco Sigiriya rock fortress that dramatically rises 370-metres from the central plains. A climb to the top offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Continue to Polonnaruwa, an impressive archaeological site packed with ancient structures including tombs, temples and stupas.
Day 8: Dambulla • Kandy
Location: Dambulla, Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Morning visit to Dambulla, home to Asia's most impressive and well-preserved cave temples. Admire the many Buddhist murals and statues, some of which date back as far as the first century BC. Leave the Cultural Triangle towards the beautiful hill station of Kandy and stay 2 nights at the Cinnamon Citadel. Afternoon orientation tour before enjoying a traditional and colourful Kandyan dance performance. Nearby you will find one of Sri Lanka's holiest sites, the Temple of the Tooth, said to contain a tooth relic of the Buddha. The evening Puja ceremony held here is a fine spectacle where prayers and music fill the air.
Day 9: Kandy
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Kandy is set on the shores of a beautiful man-made lake and the area abounds in rich and varied plant life. After a leisurely breakfast, stroll through the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens and admire the flora, butterflies, birdlife and most notably, the impressive collection of exotic orchids. Spend the afternoon at your leisure - maybe explore Kandy's bustling markets or just relax at your hotel.
Day 10: Nuwara Eliya
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning drive the scenic route towards the hill station of Nuwara Eliya. En route visit a historic tea planation where you can observe the tea pickers in the fields and learn about the process of tea production. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, stay 2-nights at The Blackpool. Situated at 2,000 metres above sea level, Nuwara Eliya attracted the British in the 18th century and their legacy is still visible.
Day 11: Horton Plains
Location: Horton Plains National Park
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Early morning visit to Horton Plains National Park, situated on Sri Lanka's highest plateau (this excursion involves a 2.5-hour walk*). Horton Plains is inhabited by large populations of monkeys and sambar deer and offers one of the best vantage points to view the spectacular Central Highlands. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Day 12: Wadduwa
Location: Wadduwa
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drive to Wadduwa. Stay 2 nights at the Blue
Water Hotel, a luxury hotel with breathtaking
views of the Indian Ocean.
Day 13: Wadduwa
Location: Wadduwa
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Day at leisure to relax on the beach. Farewell dinner with the group.
Day 14: Fly To London
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Transfer to Colombo and fly to London with
Sri Lankan Airlines.
What's Included
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4- & 5-star accommodation
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Twin / double rooms for single use
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Flexible - extensions, room & flight upgrades available
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Direct international flights with Sri Lankan Airlines
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Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles
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12 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 10 dinners
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Guided sightseeing & entrance fees
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Welcome and farewell group dinners
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Experienced local tour manager
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Wildlife safaris & national park entrance fees
What's Not Included
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Tipping and Gratuities
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Country Entry Visas
Accommodation
Anantaya Resort & Spa, Chilaw
Tucked away between a sandy beach and a mangrove fringed lagoon, the Anantaya Resort & Spa is located in the charming resort of Chilaw and a mere 20 minute drive from Colombo. It lies in close proximity to some of Sri Lanka's most enduring sights such as Wilpattu National Park and Negombo town. Spacious, luxurious rooms are set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean whilst sun loungers are dotted beneath the palm trees or by the outdoor pool.
Features: 87 rooms, open air restaurant, pool terrace and bar, lounge bar, spa, beach volleyball, badminton, cycling, boat rides, gym, outdoor pool and sun loungers.
Room amenities: Air conditioning, rain shower, mini fridge, hairdryer, private balcony, complimentary internet access, tea and coffee maker, television and...
Cinnamon Citadel, Kandy
Overlooking the Mahaweli river on the northern outskirts of the hill country capital of Kandy, Cinnamon Citadel is a 4-star hotel, offering a tranquil experience away from the city. Retaining a traditional Sri Lankan lifestyle, it is 30 minutes from one of the most sacred Buddhist places of worship, the Sacred Temple of the Buddha's Tooth as well as the beautiful Peradeniya Botanical Gardens and Kandy Lake. The 97 superior rooms and 24 spacious luxury rooms overlook the river and are elegantly furnished and decorated in themes inspired by Kandy's rich cultural heritage. All are air conditioned and have a balcony with outdoor-style seating, a satellite television, tea / coffee making facilities and a minibar. The main restaurant has views of the Mahaweli and offers international buffets, plus there is an a la carte restaurant offering fine dining in a refined ambience. The pool area...
Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana
Cinnamon Lodge Habarana is set in a 10 hectare woodland on the fringe of a tranquil, ancient irrigation lake. The architecture of the lodge is based on Ritigala, the pre-Christian-era forest monastery near Habarana. The lodge consists of 150 air-conditioned rooms in 53 separate bungalows, all with modern amenities. 30 of the rooms overlook the lake. Facilities at Lodge Habarana include a swimming pool, tennis court, billiards, and an Ayurveda health centre, and the restaurant provides a selection of continental, eastern and Chinese...
Forest Rock Garden, Anuradhapura
The eco-friendly Forest Rock Garden hotel is set among 20 hectares of lush forest just 10km from the ancient site of Anuradhapura. The hotel is built on concrete pillars that are six metres high in order to minimise the impact on the environment, with all the common areas and rooms connected via walkways built on top of the pillars. Rooms are stylishly decorated and feature large four-poster beds and some have a private plunge pool. The restaurant serves vegetarian food only.
Features: 21 rooms, swimming pool, gardens, restaurant, spa, Wi-Fi.
Room amenities: Air conditioning, writing table, television, minibar,...
The Blackpool, Nuwara Eliya
The Blackpool is a charming property located approximately 3km to the south-west of Nuwara Eliya and surrounded by lush hills and tea estates. Throughout the property you will find antique furniture and original artwork. The atmospheric bar which overlooks the surrounding valley is the finest example of this and also includes a snooker table. All of the 50 tasteful rooms have private balconies for guests to enjoy the views. The restaurant 1881 is a pleasant reminder of the altitude of the hotel and serves a carefully curated menu of both Sri Lankan and European cuisine.
Features: 50 rooms, restaurant, bar, tea lounge, swimming pool, Wi-Fi.
Room amenities: Ceiling fan, television, private...
The Blue Water Resort, Wadduwa
The Blue Water Resort is located on a sublime stretch of the Wadduwa coastline and has 100 rooms with all modern facilities. The hotel offers a spectacular view of the sea, and stands amidst a cool cluster of coconut palms that line the water. There are 4 restaurants including all day dining, a fully equipped gymnasium and spa, tennis and squash court and a large swimming...
Check out our Q&As
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
Yes. We only work with passionate local guides who have a firm grasp of English – so they can answer all your questions and offer invaluable insight into your destination.
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Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?
Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms.
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Are all entrance fees included in the price?
Yes. Quoted prices include all entrance fees.
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Are flights included in this tour?
All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do so, the cost will be deducted from the tour price.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.
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What is the standard of the hotels on this tour?
Superior: Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere.
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What is the maximum group size?
All Cox & Kings group tours have a maximum group size of 18 and average just 14 guests. Travelling in such a small group allows you to make stronger and deeper connections with fellow travellers.
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Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?
We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.
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What is the difference between a 'single' supplement and 'sole' supplement?
A 'single' traveller is someone occupying a single room while travelling with one or more other people, for example a single person travelling on a group tour. A 'sole' traveller is someone travelling on their own. As a single traveller on a group tour (except those in the SoloTravellers collection), please check the single supplement price. If you wish to add an extension to that tour, please th
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When will I get my tickets?
Travel documents will be sent approximately two weeks prior to departure (third party suppliers' policies may vary), unless your booking is made within six weeks of departure, in which case final documents will be sent as soon as possible.
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When do I need to pay my final balance?
Final payment must be made no less than 75 days before departure.
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Why do I have to pay more for my holiday if I am a single traveller?
Most hotels around the world charge more per person for a single occupancy room than for a shared twin room, because the cost of maintaining a room for one person can be almost as high as it is for two. In addition, many single occupancy rooms are the same as twin / double rooms. The Solo Travellers collection of small group tours is specially created to include accommodation based on single occu
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Can Cox & Kings arrange my visa?
We cannot arrange your visa but we can recommend a reputable visa assistance company who can help with your application. Please contact your tour consultant for details.
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Do your prices include flights?
All prices for Cox & Kings holidays include international flights, except where indicated. Australasia and Canada holidays do not include international flights so that you may benefit from the best prices at the time you choose to book, taking advantage of major seasonal variations and short term special offers. For all destinations, you may be able to arrange your own flights. If you wish to do
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What is a non-exclusive escorted group tour?
The vast majority of our group tours are exclusive to Cox & Kings clients. However, there are a few exceptions where holidaymakers who booked their tour with another travel company travel in the group.
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When will I get a detailed itinerary?
If you are travelling on a group tour, you will receive a detailed itinerary with your travel pack. If travelling on a private basis, you will receive your detailed itinerary with your confirmation invoice.
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What are the four tour categories
***LUXURY These are our most comfortable tours and will usually feature 5-star deluxe accommodation throughout*** ***SUPERIOR Most Cox & Kings tours fall under this category and are based in 4- or 5-star accommodation where available, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***STANDARD Simpler in emphasis, these itineraries typically feature 4-star or good 3-star accommodation throughout, or the best alternative elsewhere*** ***DISCOVERY Best suited to the hardier traveller, these tours typically include some quite basic accommodation, possibly longer and rougher road journeys and, in some cases, more strenuous activities, such as trekking***
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Do I need inoculations?
Many of our destinations have recommended health precautions, which you can read about in our regional documents and health pages. However, we recommend that you contact your doctor who will be able to give you professional advice, arrange any vaccinations and give advice on malaria protection. Alternatively, visit the NHS website for more information.
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What happens if a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers? Will it be cancelled?
If a group tour does not reach its minimum numbers, we will either offer for you to take your holiday on a private basis (which may involve a supplement), or you will be fully refunded.
Reviews from Travellers on this Tour
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Dates & Availability
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Wednesday - Monday
Nov 13, 2024 - Nov 25, 2024Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cox & Kings requires a minimum deposit of 15% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cox & kings charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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