Boutique Sri Lanka: The Ceylon Signature Escape (Tour code: 15535)

Upon arrival in Sri Lanka, you will be warmly welcomed and met by your guide before proceeding to Negombo, a short 20-minute drive away. After checking in at your hotel, take the rest of the day to relax and unwind at your leisure.

Overnight stay in Negombo at Uga Riva in a Deluxe Room. 

Negombo Market

After breakfast at the hotel, spend the morning discovering the charm of Negombo, known for its golden beaches, fishing village, and lively local markets. Later, return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Negombo at Uga Riva in a Deluxe Room. 

Negombo Beach

Enjoy breakfast at the resort.

You will then be transferred at the airport for departure. 

After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, embark on a scenic four-hour journey to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first royal capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its spirituality and grandeur. With your private guide, visit the iconic Ruwanweliseya Stupa and the awe-inspiring Jethawanaramaya, once among the tallest monuments in the world. Stroll through serene temple grounds, admire the meditative Samadhi Buddha, and receive a blessing at the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi tree—over 2,500 years old and revered as the oldest recorded tree in existence. After exploring the city’s rich history and cultural landmarks, continue your journey to Sigiriya (approximately 1.5 hours’ drive). Check in at the hotel and unwind for the evening.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya at Maia Habarana in a Deluxe Room. 

Anuradhapura

Indulge in breakfast at the hotel before embarking on a scenic journey to Sigiriya, a UNESCO World Heritage Site rising 200 metres above the jungle canopy. Built in the 5th century by King Kasyapa as his royal citadel, this magnificent rock fortress is a testament to ancient artistry and engineering. With your private guide, explore the beautiful frescoes, the mirror wall, and the lion’s paws before ascending to the summit. The palace ruins and royal pool reflect its former grandeur, while panoramic 360° views of the surrounding forests and hills offer a truly unforgettable experience.

Afterwards, explore Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second royal capital and another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the vast Parakrama Samudra reservoir and the remarkable Gal Viharaya, home to four stunning Buddha statues carved from a single granite rock. Wander through the palace ruins, intricately carved moonstones, and ancient royal baths that whisper stories of a regal past. For a more immersive experience, a private cycling tour with an expert historian can be arranged, offering a personalised journey through the kingdom’s history, art, and timeless serenity.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya at Maia Habarana in a Deluxe Room. 

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

After breakfast, proceed to Hiriwadunna (approximately 30 minutes’ drive) for an immersive village experience. Travel by traditional bullock cart along the scenic Hiriwadunna Lake, passing tree houses, paddy fields, and Chena cultivations. Enjoy welcome refreshments and a short village walk before being warmly hosted in a local home for a traditional Sri Lankan lunch, prepared over firewood in earthenware pots. This intimate experience offers a genuine glimpse into the warmth and simplicity of rural Sri Lankan life.

In the afternoon, continue to Minneriya National Park (approximately 30 minutes’ drive) for an exciting private safari. Located in Sri Lanka’s North Central Province, the park is renowned for close encounters with elephants and other wildlife, including endemic monkeys, birds, and reptiles. At its heart lies the ancient Minneriya Tank, which transforms into verdant grasslands during the dry season. From June to September, the park becomes the stage for “The Gathering,” the world’s largest congregation of Asian elephants. A safari at dawn or dusk promises an unforgettable and awe-inspiring wildlife experience.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya at Maia Habarana in a Deluxe Room. 

Minneriya National Park

After breakfast at the resort, drive approximately 30 minutes to Dambulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Sri Lanka’s renowned rock temple complex dating back to the 1st century BC. With your private guide, explore the Golden Rock Cave Temple, featuring chambers adorned with the largest collection of cave paintings and countless Buddha statues. Learn about the history, symbolism, and spiritual significance behind each sculpture and mural while enjoying the serene ambiance and the interplay of light across ancient stone, creating a deeply memorable experience.

Continue your journey to Kandy (approximately 2.5 hours’ drive), the cultural heart of Sri Lanka. Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth, one of the most revered Buddhist sites on the island, followed by an enchanting cultural show showcasing traditional music and dance. Check in at your hotel and spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Kandy at Adigar's Manor in an Ultra Room. 

Temple of the Tooth

After enjoying breakfast at the resort, proceed to Peradeniya (approximately 30 minutes’ drive) and visit the renowned Royal Botanical Gardens. Established in the 14th century and spanning 147 acres along the Mahaweli River, the gardens are home to over 4,000 plant species, including ferns, spices, medicinal flora, and 300 varieties of orchids. With your private guide, stroll along tranquil pathways beneath towering bamboo and palm trees, admire vibrant butterflies and birds, and discover secluded picnic spots, immersing yourself in the serene beauty of Sri Lanka’s flora.

In the afternoon, drive approximately 3 hours to Nuwara Eliya, the scenic “Little England” of Sri Lanka. Check in at your hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure, soaking in the cool climate and picturesque surroundings.

Overnight stay in Hatton at Camelia Hills in a Camelia Bedroom.

Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast at the hotel, visit a tea plantation and factory to experience the heart of Sri Lanka’s renowned tea country. Stroll through lush, emerald-green tea fields, observing the meticulous hand-picking of tea leaves. At the factory, learn about the intricate process of tea production—from withering and rolling to drying and sorting—and conclude with a tasting session to savor the rich aromas and flavors of freshly brewed Ceylon tea. Return to the hotel and spend the evening at leisure, enjoying the serene surroundings of Nuwara Eliya.

Overnight stay in Hatton at Camelia Hills in a Camelia Bedroom.

Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast at the resort, drive approximately 30 minutes to Nanuoya Train Station and embark on the scenic train journey to Ella (approximately 2.5 hours). Considered one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque rail routes, the ride passes lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls, and rolling highlands, offering breathtaking views. Guests can enjoy the journey from either the Observation Wagon or the Ella Odyssey train, immersing themselves in the sights and aromas of the island’s famous Ceylon tea.

Upon arrival in Ella, continue by road (approximately 3 hours) to Yala, where you will check in at the hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Note: Train tickets are subject to availability at the time of booking, as government allocations and occasional schedule changes may affect seat confirmations.

Overnight stay in Yala at Chena Huts in a Cabin.

Yala National Park

After breakfast, embark on an exciting game drive at Yala National Park (approximately 3.5 hours). As one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest wildlife sanctuaries, Yala’s Block I offers exclusive access to its rich and diverse ecosystem. Enjoy a private dawn or dusk safari, spotting elusive leopards, herds of elephants, sloth bears, deer, and buffalo, as well as over 200 species of birds, crocodiles, and langurs. After your thrilling wildlife adventure, return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Overnight stay in Yala at Chena Huts in a Cabin.

Yala National Park

After breakfast at the resort, drive approximately 3 hours to Galle and check in at your hotel. Spend the afternoon and evening at leisure, enjoying the charming coastal city, its colonial architecture, or simply relaxing at the hotel.

Overnight stay in Galle at Fort Bazaar in a Bazaar Bedroom.

Galle

After breakfast at the resort, embark on a city tour of Galle (approximately 2.5 hours), exploring the historic streets, boutique shops, and colonial landmarks of this UNESCO World Heritage city. With a private guide, stroll along the Galle Fort walls, visit the Maritime Museum, the Old Dutch Church, and the lighthouse, and browse charming galleries and shops. Conclude atop the ramparts with a cup of Ceylon tea or a fine spirit while enjoying a serene sunset over the Indian Ocean.

Later, drive approximately 40 minutes to Villa Mayurana for an immersive cinnamon experience. Set within a fragrant cinnamon plantation overlooking Koggala Lake and the Indian Ocean, the estate offers a private guided tour to learn the art of cultivating and harvesting cinnamon and to witness the processing in the estate’s factory. After the experience, return to the hotel and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Overnight stay in Galle at Fort Bazaar in a Bazaar Bedroom.

Galle Dutch Fort

After breakfast at the resort, enjoy a full day at leisure to soak in the stunning coastal views. Your driver and vehicle will be available for up to 80 km without any additional cost, allowing for personalized excursions or relaxed exploration at your own pace. Optional experiences can be arranged at an additional cost, such as a Whale Watching Cruise (seasonal), where you may encounter blue whales, sperm whales, and playful dolphins off the southern coast, or a rural Galle bicycle tour, cycling through charming villages, emerald paddy fields, and local farms for an authentic glimpse into Sri Lankan village life.

Overnight stay in Galle at Fort Bazaar in a Bazaar Bedroom.

After breakfast at the resort, drive approximately 2 hours to Colombo, Sri Lanka’s vibrant commercial capital. Embark on a private city tour (approximately 3.5 hours), exploring the city’s rich heritage, diverse architecture, and cultural landmarks. Visit ornate Buddhist and Hindu temples, mosques, and churches, alongside colonial-era buildings and modern shopping arcades. Highlights include Gangaramaya Temple, the bustling Pettah Bazaar, Wolfendhal Dutch Church, Old Parliament, Bandaranaike Memorial Hall, Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park, Independence Square, and the National Museum. Conclude the tour with a leisurely stroll along Galle Face Green or enjoy afternoon tea or a sundowner at the historic Galle Face Hotel, taking in panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. Check in at your hotel and relax for the evening.

Overnight stay in Colombo at Ishq Colombo in a Pool Suite.

Ishq Colombo