Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group
Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group
Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group
10 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Colombo, Wilpattu National Park, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SA526M19
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of Sri Lanka with the "Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group" tour. This immersive experience takes you from the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene landscapes of Nuwara Eliya. Discover the hidden treasures of Colombo with a local guide, explore the lush jungles of Wilpattu National Park on a thrilling jeep safari, and marvel at the ancient wonders of Sigiriya and Polonnaruwa. Enjoy authentic Sri Lankan cuisine and cultural performances in Kandy, and learn the art of tea-making in the picturesque hills of Nuwara Eliya. With luxurious accommodations and seamless transportation, this tour offers a perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation, ensuring a memorable exploration of Sri Lanka's rich heritage and natural beauty.
Choice Highlights
- Choose between two carefully selected activities
- Sigiriya Rock: Visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiryia's Royal Gardens, boasting ancient water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders.
- Sigiriya: Climb Sigiriya Rock and admire breath-taking views over the lakes and villages below.
Top Rated Highlights
- Colombo: Head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the hidden treasures this city has to offer.
- Colombo: Take a panoramic city tour of Colombo including all the main sights and Pettah market.
- Colombo: Explore by Tuk-Tuk old Colombo town and cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian ocean. See the city lights come alive for an evening of buzzing activity.
- Wilpattu National Park: Ascend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari in search for Sri Lanka's big four. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colourful birds.
- Wilpattu National Park: Ascend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colourful birds.
- Sigiriya: Visit this famous fortress set upon its prominent rocky outcrop.
- Polonnaruwa: Your visit to the archaeological park will reveal what life in the area was like when the city was thriving, 800-years-ago.
- Dambulla: See Raja Maha Vihara - the most impressive of Sri Lanka's Cave Temples.
- Kandy: Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the evening.
- Kandy: Visit the site of the Sacred Tooth Relic Temple.
- Nuwara Eliya: Join your Local Expert to visit a tea plantation and learn how this crop is produced. You'll even have the opportunity to experience the traditional technique of tea-leaf picking, before sampling some of the freshest tea possible.
Make Travel Matter
Nuwara Eliya: Drum making in Sri Lanka is a fascinating craft deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions, this cultural heritage is passed down through generations. The drums are produced by skilled artisans and are not only musical instruments, but they also play a vital role in religious ceremonies, traditional performances, and cultural events throughout the country. Each drum tells a story, connecting the present with the rich history and traditions of Sri Lanka. Your visit supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Cities and Communities.
Authentic Dining
Colombo: Enjoy dinner and drinks with your fellow travellers.
Nuwara Eliya:
Nuwara Eliya: Your mouth-watering dinner features the best of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Insight Choice
Sigiriya Rock: Visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiryia's Royal Gardens, boasting ancient water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders.
Sigiriya: Climb Sigiriya Rock and admire breath-taking views over the lakes and villages below.
Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome To Sri Lanka
Location: Colombo
Accommodation Name: Taj Samudra, Colombo
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to Sri Lanka. A land of historic ruins, sweeping beaches and mouth-watering food, you’ve made it to paradise. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Unwind and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow travellers and Travel Director for dinner.
Day 2: Explore Colombo
Location: Colombo
Accommodation Name: Taj Samudra, Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
There’s no better way to get to know a city than to walk through its back streets and experience it like a local. In the morning, head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the city's hidden treasures. Journey through a myriad of buildings that date back to 17th century and were erected mostly during Dutch and British rule. Visit Pettah Market, where locals head to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, garments and jewellery. This market place is older than the buildings around it and is an area best explored with a local. Later, board your customised tuk-tuk and head out to explore the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in Colombo's oldest neighbourhoods. Cruise the city streets as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean and the city lights spring to life around a pulse of evening activity.
Day 3: Welcome To The Jungle Relaxed Start
Location: Wilpattu National Park
Accommodation Name: Mahoora Safari Camp, Wilpattu National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, begin your journey to Wilpattu National Park. A unique complex of over fifty wetlands and gravel roads that trace watering holes, the perfect place to observe wildlife. On arrival, check into your luxury safari camp located on the boarder of the park, a quintessential glamping experience and a satisfying blend of comfort and nature. Enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. In the evening, venture deep into the thick wilderness. Explore the park by jeep safari, taking the back roads in search for Sri Lanka's big four—leopards, elephants, sloth bears and deer.
Day 4: Jungle Safari
Location: Wilpattu National Park
Accommodation Name: Mahoora Safari Camp, Wilpattu National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy journeying through the jungle on your morning and afternoon safaris. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, buffalos, mongooses and turtles.
Day 5: Wilpattu To Sigiriya
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation Name: Aliya Resort & Spa, Sigiriya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning head south, making your way to Sigiriya. Stop on your journey at the Anuradhapura temple complex, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, sprawling and with a rich collection of archaeological wonders. Now a World Heritage site, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its ancient ruins with your Travel Director. Meet a practicing Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour of the Ritigala jungle’s enveloped paths. Hear the tales and secrets of the forest dwelling monks that once inhabited the reserve. Begin your gradual ascent, making your way through seemingly endless paths and flights of carved stairs. This was once a place of meditation, congregation, teaching and general life for a monastic community who today devote their lives to simple living in the forest.
Day 6: Exploring Sigiriya's Ancient Kingdom
Location: Sigiriya
Accommodation Name: Aliya Resort & Spa, Sigiriya
Meals Included: Breakfast
Surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is steeped in history. Explore Sigiriya with Insight Choice. Choose to climb Sigiriya Rock. Alternatively, visit Sigiriya Botanical Gardens. Later, visit the historic city of Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms. During a tuk-tuk ride, explore the ancient remains of temples and tombs. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself before heading back to your hotel.
Day 7: Colourful Caves And Rainforests
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: Mahaweli Reach, Kandy
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you’ll visit the colourful Dambulla Caves. Also known as the Golden Temple caves, this World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Take in its mighty artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha as you explore with your group. Later, arrive in Kandy. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest and tea plantations, this sacred city is famous for its Buddhist sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth shrine. Once here, you’ll enjoy a cultural evening of drums and a dance performance. Your accommodation for the evening is Mahaweli Reach. Located next to the mighty Mahaweli River, this traditional hotel is based in the hill capital of Sri Lanka and offers incredible culture, history and authentic dining options.
Day 8: Tea Country Hills Relaxed Start
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation Name: Grand, Nuwara Eliya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning head to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of Buddha, is located here. Later meet Rahju, a local artist, at his contemporary art gallery. Enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea. Continue to Nuwara Eliya. A city in Sri Lanka’s tea country hills, this pretty destination is famous for Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu shrine and Galway’s Land National Park. Stop for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience of Drum making, each drum tells a story, connecting the present with the rich history and traditions of Sri Lanka. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration. Learn to cook Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine with a local chef, before indulging in the fruits of your hard work.
Day 9: Exploring Nuwara Eliya
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation Name: Grand, Nuwara Eliya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Rise early this morning for an excursion to Horton Plains for a trek to World's End, where a stunning escarpment plunges 880 metres down to the jungle floor. World’s End is situated in one of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka and is the only one where you are able to walk freely as there are no elephants. Stand in awe and capture incredible views of the expansive plateau, before mist and cloud obscure the scene. In the afternoon, learn everything there is to know about Ceylon tea during a visit to a tea plantation and garden. Walk through the plantation during plucking time and spend time with a tea plucker to learn about their life, before enjoying a tasting session hosted by an expert. In the evening, toast to your travels with your new friends over dinner at your hotel.
Day 10: Goodbye Colombo
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers, as your journey comes to an end. You’ll be driven back to Colombo airport for your onward flight, please schedule flights after 20:00. A stop will be made in Colombo for those extending their stay.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Stay in luxurious accommodations including the Taj Samudra in Colombo, Mahoora Safari Camp in Wilpattu National Park, Aliya Resort & Spa in Sigiriya, Mahaweli Reach in Kandy, and the Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
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Transportation
Enjoy seamless transportation with pick-up from the airport, leisurely walking tours, tuk-tuk rides, jeep safaris, and comfortable transfers between destinations.
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Meals
The tour includes 6 dinners, 9 breakfasts, and 2 lunches.
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Guided Tours
Guided walking tours and excursions are included, such as exploring Colombo with a local expert and visiting the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
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Safari Experience
Experience jeep safaris in Wilpattu National Park to observe wildlife such as leopards, elephants, and sloth bears.
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Cultural Experiences
Enjoy cultural experiences like a traditional dance performance in Kandy and a cooking demonstration in Nuwara Eliya.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from Sri Lanka are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and beverages are not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities not listed in the itinerary are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Sri Lanka are not included.
Mode of Transport
Enjoy seamless transportation with pick-up from the airport, leisurely walking tours, tuk-tuk rides, jeep safaris, and comfortable transfers between destinations.
Dining Summary
6 Dinner (D)9 Breakfast (B)2 Lunch (L)
Insight Experiences
Sigiriya: Meet a practising Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour through Ritigala Jungle and hear tales of the forest dwelling monks, a monastic community, who once inhabited the monastic reserve, devoting their lives to living simply in the forest.Anuradhapura: Explore the temple complex, sprawling with a rich collection of archaeological wonders.Kandy: Visit Rahju’s Contemporary Art Gallery, enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park?
During the jeep safari in Wilpattu National Park, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including leopards, elephants, sloth bears, and an array of colorful birds.
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What unique experiences are included in the tour of Colombo?
In Colombo, you will enjoy a leisurely walking tour with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and explore the city by tuk-tuk, experiencing the vibrant evening atmosphere as the city lights come alive.
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What activities are available at Sigiriya Rock?
At Sigiriya Rock, you have the option to climb the rock and admire the breathtaking views over the lakes and villages below, or visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiriya's Royal Gardens with ancient water features and terraced gardens.
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What cultural experiences are offered in Kandy?
In Kandy, you will visit the Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, enjoy a traditional dance performance, and have a private viewing of paintings at Rahju's Contemporary Art Gallery while discussing life perspectives over a cup of tea.
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What can I learn about tea production in Nuwara Eliya?
In Nuwara Eliya, you will visit a tea plantation to learn about the production process, experience traditional tea-leaf picking, and enjoy a tasting session of some of the freshest tea possible.
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What is the significance of the Dambulla Caves?
The Dambulla Caves, also known as the Golden Temple caves, are a World Heritage Site and the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, featuring impressive artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha.
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What is the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience in Nuwara Eliya?
The MAKE TRAVEL MATTER experience in Nuwara Eliya involves learning about the traditional craft of drum making, which is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan culture and plays a vital role in religious ceremonies and cultural events.
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
We regret that no refunds can be made for absences from a tour, including experiences such as missed meals or sightseeing.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1978.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Insight Vacations is a founding member of the TreadRight Foundation, a joint initiative created by the brands within The Travel Corporation (TTC) almost 15 years ago to ensure our impact through tourism is positive. Our ethos to #MakeTravelMatter guides our decision-making at every level of our business.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
You have two options as a solo traveller. Either choose to be matched with a same sex partner for a room share - at no extra cost. Or choose a room of your own with a reduced or even free private room upgrade on select tours.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest COVID-19 policies
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of insight vacations charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
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