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Best of Sri Lanka - 15 Jan 2027 to 17 Dec 2027
Operated by Trafalgar
Tripcode: SRILM27
Overview
Destination:
Sri Lanka,
Duration:11 days
Type:Group tour (max 45)
Travel Period
January 2027 - December 2027
This Best of Sri Lanka tour takes you through the island’s ancient cities, breathtaking landscapes and deep cultural traditions. Stand before the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy, explore the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Travel by train through tea country, search for elephants and leopards on a Yala National Park game drive and walk the historic streets of Galle Fort.
Sightseeing highlights
- Explore Colombo, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park and Galle
- Visit Sigiriya Fortress, Polonnaruwa Archaeological Park, Dambulla Cave Temple, Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, Tea plantation in Nuwara Eliya and Galle Fort
- See Kandy Traditional Dance Performance
Iconic Experience
- Colombo: Explore Colombo on foot, where history and modern life sit side by side. You'll visit Independence Square, a symbol of Sri Lanka’s freedom, before weaving through the lively streets of Pettah. Stop at the Red Mosque, a striking landmark, then step into Gangaramaya Temple, known for its mix of architectural styles. You'll pass the old and new Parliament buildings before viewing the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall, a gift from China.
- Sigiriya: Climb to the top of this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a royal citadel that towers over the jungle. You'll pass ancient frescoes and the lion’s paws before reaching the summit, panoramic views make the ascent worthwhile.
- Polonnaruwa: This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases the grandeur of Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Explore the Royal Palace complex, walk through the ancient Quadrangle and see the Gal Vihara, where four massive Buddha statues are carved from a single granite slab, a remarkable example of Sri Lanka’s artistic heritage.
- Dambulla: Step into Sri Lanka’s largest and best-preserved cave monastery, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with over 150 Buddha statues and centuries-old murals. Sitting high above the plains, this sacred site has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years.
- Kandy: Visit one of Buddhism’s most important pilgrimage sites, where a tooth believed to belong to the Buddha, Sri Lanka’s most sacred relic, is kept inside a golden casket. Walk through the temple’s halls, see its detailed carvings and take in the atmosphere of this deeply spiritual place.
- Kandy: Watch a vibrant display of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage as Kandyan dancers take the stage. Once performed in royal courts and sacred rituals, this energetic tradition comes to life with rhythmic drumming, acrobatic leaps and striking costumes. Fire-breathers and drummers add to the spectacle, making it an unforgettable experience.
- Nuwara Eliya: Wind through Sri Lanka’s hill country on one of the world’s most scenic train rides. Rolling tea plantations, misty mountains and cascading waterfalls unfold outside your window as the train climbs towards Nuwara Eliya, the heart of the island’s tea industry.
- Nuwara Eliya: Visit a Ceylon tea estate to see firsthand how Sri Lanka’s world-famous tea is made. Walk through the plantations, watch the leaves being processed and learn about the different stages of production, finishing with a freshly brewed cup.
- Nuwara Eliya: Explore Nuwara Eliya, a town shaped by its British colonial past. Stroll past the Tudor-style post office, through the landscaped paths of Victoria Park and to Gregory Lake. Stop by the historic Grand Hotel and the exclusive Hill Club, both echoes of a bygone era.
- Yala National Park: Venture into Yala National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s most diverse wildlife on a guided game drive. Keep your camera ready because this is one of the best places in the world to spot leopards in the wild.
- Galle: Along the shores of Weligama, see one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic sights, stilt fishermen balancing on wooden poles, casting their lines into the Indian Ocean. This centuries-old tradition, passed down through generations, is a testament to the island’s deep connection to the sea. Watch as they skilfully fish in the shallows, a unique and timeless practice found only in this region.
- Discover the history of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along the Dutch-built ramparts, past colonial-era buildings, cafes and boutiques. Visit the famous Galle Lighthouse, the oldest in Sri Lanka and learn how this centuries-old fort has shaped the city and its people.
Dive Into Culture
- Tissamaharama: Stop in Tissamaharama to see how Sri Lanka’s famous buffalo curd is made. Walk through the farm, watch fresh milk strained and boiled before it’s set to ferment in clay pots. Finish with a taste: thick, creamy curd topped with sweet treacle, a simple yet delicious treat.
Highlights:
Standard inclusions
- 7 Dinner (D)
- 10 Breakfast (B)
- 4 Lunch (L)
- An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
- Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
- All porterage and restaurant gratuities
- All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
- Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
- Must-see sightseeing
- Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
- Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
- Optional Experiences and free time
- On occasion, hotels of similar standard and location may be utilised.
Itinerary
Expand all 
Collapse all
Collapse allArrival Colombo
Touch down in Colombo and transfer to your Stays with Stories hotel, the Galle Face Hotel, a landmark with a rich colonial past and a storied guest list that includes royalty and world leaders. After settling in, join your Travel Director and fellow travellers for a welcome dinner featuring Sri Lankan-style hoppers, a type of bowl-shaped pancakes made from rice flour, an opportunity to toast to the journey ahead.
Colombo Sightseeing
Walk through Colombo’s colonial streets, bustling markets and peaceful temples like Pettah and Gangarama Temple, uncovering the layers of Sri Lanka’s capital. The afternoon is yours, you can relax at the hotel, explore more of the city or join an Optional Experience to sample Sri Lanka’s street food or discover the architectural legacy of Geoffrey Bawa. As evening falls, you could choose to see Colombo illuminated from the top of the Lotus Tower on another Optional Experience.
Kurunegala and on to Sigiriya
Leaving Colombo behind, you'll travel towards Sigiriya, watching the landscape shift from city streets to rolling countryside. Stop in Kurunegala to see the hilltop Buddha statue that looks out over the town. You'll have time to slow down and tuck into traditional Sri Lankan flavours at a local restaurant, with views stretching over lush paddy fields. Arriving at your hotel in Sigiriya, unwind or join an Optional Experience on a game drive in Minneriya National Park, home to Sri Lanka’s Asian elephants.
Journey to Polonnaruwa
Sigiriya Rock Fortress rises above the jungle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. You'll have the option to climb past ancient frescoes and through the lion’s paws before reaching the summit, where you're rewarded with panoramic views. The afternoon is yours to relax at the hotel or explore at your own pace. Later, step into Sri Lanka’s past at Polonnaruwa, walking through the Royal Palace complex, the Quadrangle and the Gal Vihara Buddhas, carved from a single granite slab. After a day of ancient cities and lost kingdoms, you’ll be ready to unwind back at the hotel.
Dambulla Cave Temple and Kandy
High above the plains, the Dambulla Cave Temple has been a place of worship for over 2,000 years. Walk through its rock-hewn chambers, where over 150 Buddha statues and centuries-old murals fill the sacred space. From here, visit a mountaintop farm with views of the Aluvihare Mountains, where a guided walk through gardens of pepper, papaya and cocoa ends with a traditional lunch. Arriving in Kandy, visit the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, said to house a sacred fragment of the Buddha. Walk through its richly decorated halls, soaking in the spiritual atmosphere. As the evening unfolds, take your seat for a Kandyan Cultural Dance Performance, where drumming, fire acts and acrobatic dancers bring Sri Lanka’s traditions to life.
Tea Country Hills
Journey into Sri Lanka’s hill country aboard the train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, where rolling tea plantations and misty peaks showcase the country’s natural beauty. Arriving in the heart of tea country, visit a working tea estate and factory to see the craft behind Ceylon’s finest export and enjoy a freshly brewed cup. Later, explore Nuwara Eliya, a town rich in colonial charm. Walk past the Tudor-style post office, unwind by Gregory Lake and soak in the atmosphere of the Grand Hotel and Hill Club, reminders of a bygone era.
Onward to Tissamaharama
Travel from Nuwara Eliya to Tissamaharama, winding down from the highlands to Sri Lanka’s southern plains. Along the way, Dive into Culture with a stop at a traditional buffalo curd farm, where you’ll see the process firsthand and enjoy a treacle-topped serving. Arriving in Tissamaharama, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure, relaxing or exploring at your own pace.
Yala National Park
Wake before dawn for a game drive in Yala National Park, Sri Lanka’s premier wildlife reserve. As the sun rises, venture through the park’s diverse landscapes, watching for elephants, crocodiles and the elusive leopard. After returning to the hotel, the afternoon is yours to relax by the pool, read a book or simply unwind. For those keen to explore more, an optional afternoon game drive offers another chance to spot Yala’s wildlife as the day cools.
Travel to Galle
Travel south to Galle, stopping along the way to see the stilt fishermen of Weligama, a tradition unique to Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Arriving in Galle, check in to your hotel and spend the rest of the day as you please to relax by the beach, explore the town, or soak in the colonial charm. For those looking to explore further, an Optional Experience boat trip through the Ahangama backwaters offers a peaceful journey through mangrove-lined waterways.
Galle Sightseeing
The morning is yours to enjoy, you could relax at the hotel, take a stroll through Galle, or choose from two Optional Experiences. Set out early on a whale watching cruise (seasonal) to spot blue whales and dolphins off Sri Lanka’s southern coast, or join a mask painting workshop in Galle Fort, learning from a renowned artist about this unique tradition. A warm welcome awaits at the home of Mrs Shahira Mahuroof, for a Be My Guest experience of home-cooked Sri Lankan flavours and family stories. Later, explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort with a Local Specialist, walking along its ramparts and past the iconic Galle Lighthouse. As your journey comes to an end, gather for a final dinner, sharing memories and toasting to the adventure.
Farewell Sri Lanka
Enjoy your final morning in Sri Lanka with time to relax or explore as you choose. In the afternoon, visit the Victor Hasselblad Sea Turtle Research & Conservation Centre for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. Learn about the efforts to protect endangered sea turtles and the challenges facing marine life along Sri Lanka’s coast. Afterwards, transfer to the airport where you’ll say goodbye to your Travel Director and fellow travellers, taking with you lasting memories of Sri Lanka’s landscapes, wildlife and culture. Flights should be booked for departure after 20:00, bringing your journey through Sri Lanka to a close.
Dates
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Operator
Trafalgar
The best of the world unlocked for you. Imagine unmissable experiences you’ve always dreamed of, getting to know the locals and having everything taken care of every step of the way. Here's what you'll experience: Must-sees to local secrets: Visiting bucket list sites are a highlight of travelling, however, travelling on your own can make them hard work. Don’t queue with other sightseers for hours, with Trafalgar our experts unlock doors – think exclusive access to the Vatican out of hours or a tour of Versailles and its grounds with an expert. This, coupled with the intimate glimpses and hidden gems our local specialists show you, are the life-changing experiences that make you feel like an insider, not a tourist. One-of-a-kind experiences: Thanks to our global network you’ll unlock local access to communities and people around the world. Our 100+ Be My Guest experiences are a signature Trafalgar exclusive, where you will enjoy the hospitality of locals as you are welcomed into their homes to hear their stories and learn about their cultures. In every destination, you’ll also enjoy unique “Stays with stories” accommodation: more than just a place to rest your head, they are part of the heritage and fabric of the communities you visit. Responsible travel at heart: When you choose Trafalgar, you are choosing to make your travels a force for good and support our goal to MAKE TRAVEL MATTER®. We recognise our responsibility to ensure we make a positive impact on the planet we call home, the people we visit, and the rich wildlife we find. We ensure that the impacts of our business and your travels are positive in two ways: through our TreadRight Foundation, and our 5-year sustainability strategy How We Tread Right.
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