Swim and snorkel in The Maldives’ turquoise waters. The best possible way to relax at the end of your holiday
Tucked northwest of Colombo, Puttalam District is a secret treasure for those keen to explore Sri Lanka beyond the usual trail.
This sparsely populated region is a mosaic of cultures—Moorish, Tamil, Christian and Sinhala—where looming granite outcrops and peaceful wewas host kingfishers, storks and water lilies in quiet splendour. The area is rich in birdlife, especially in reserves like Anawilundawa near Chilaw, and it straddles the dry and wet zones, making it an unusual hotspot for nature lovers. Two major highlights here are the vast Wilpattu National Park—renowned for its leopards and wild terrain—and the biodiverse Puttalam Lagoon. Kalpitiya, on the peninsula’s edge, offers laid-back beach retreats, exceptional dolphin watching (Oct–Apr), and world-class kitesurfing (May–Sep). Though less classically scenic than southern bays, Kalpitiya’s wide sandy shores offer solitude and dramatic sunsets for those looking to truly escape.
Venture inland to find The Mudhouse, an eco-retreat offering village-style simplicity and immersive local experiences near the hauntingly beautiful Paramakanda Rock Temple. Explorers on two wheels will love the freedom to roam the rural surroundings. The region is also steeped in legends and history, with sites like the ruined capital Pandus Nuwara—famous for its long-haired princess tale—and Yapahuwa’s rock citadel adding cultural intrigue. With limited tourism, Puttalam remains one of Sri Lanka’s most genuine and untouched provinces. For a deeply rewarding travel experience, far from the crowd and full of natural and cultural treasures, this is the place to go.
ETG Sample Itineraries in Puttalam and the north west
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Sri Lanka
Family Adventure in Sri Lanka
This is an action-packed holiday, perfect for families with a sense of adventure, with an exciting mix of off-the-beaten-path places and touches of luxury. Made for travellers who enjoy pushing the boundaries a little and want to experience the ‘real’ Sri Lanka (while staying in some lovely hotels along the away).
Highlights
Wilpattu National Park
Spot leopards, elephants and sloth bears on peaceful safaris in the serene and lesser-visited Wilpattu National Park
Knuckles Mountains
Set off on a thrilling hike through the lush forests and waterfalls in the Knuckles Mountains
Surfing
Catch a wave in Sri Lanka’s Ahangama and Weligama surf hotspots, perfect for all skill levels
Farm visit
Experience rural Sri Lanka with a guided farm tour and meet local families in the heart of Sri Lanka
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Sri Lanka
Family Sri Lanka & The Maldives
This two-week itinerary has been thoughtfully designed to include memorable family experiences in Sri Lanka and the Maldives. Along the way, you’ll stay in unique, boutique, family-friendly accommodation where you’re ensured not only comfort and a great location but also an adventure.
You’ll travel in Sri Lanka with your own private chauffeur-guide. The route has been planned to minimise travel but ensure you can take in national parks, ancient cities, villages and hill country. The Sri Lanka tour can be as adventurous or relaxed as you wish. For the last part of the holiday, kick back in a villa on a beautiful, white sandy island in The Maldives.
Highlights
Safari experience
Head out on safari with your naturalist guide in Wilpattu, Sri Lanka’s largest national park
Adventures in The Cultural Triangle
Cycle the backroads to Polonnaruwa, climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress and discover local life in the countryside
The Maldive s
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Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka & The Maldives Holiday (May to September)
Holidays in Sri Lanka from May to September are one of the travel industry’s best-kept secrets, but it can be tricky to know where to go. In the north, central, and east of the island, the weather can be superb and a well-crafted itinerary will mean you’ll have plenty of sunshine. The timing makes it ideal for a family summer holiday, and the quieter season means it’s perfect for a honeymoon.
This itinerary will show you the main highlights of Sri Lanka as well as something a little different with our unique cultural experiences. You’ll also have the chance to explore the beautiful and mostly undiscovered eastern coast of the country before flying off to the Maldives to relax in style for four nights. For more ideas, don’t hesitate to give us a call.
Highlights
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Climb Sigiriya Rock and explore the surrounding countryside
Kalkudah Bay
Relax at a luxury beach resort in Kalkudah Bay on the east coast; enjoy tranquil beaches and calm summer seas.
Dreamy resort
Stay on a paradise island in the Maldives
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Sri Lanka
Nature & Wildlife Explorer
Sri Lanka is extraordinary, with wildlife and nature all around. This holiday is ideal for casual nature and wildlife enthusiasts who want to see the island’s varied landscapes while getting a feel for day-to-day rural life and enjoying a relaxing time.
The hotels selected here are all small and intimate places where you might enjoy discussing wildlife with other guests, away from any of the principal tourist trails.
Highlights
Wildlife experiences
Enjoy some of the best wildlife experiences in the country. Joining expert guides to track elephants, leopards, and more
Knuckles Mountains
Spot rare birds while sipping local tea in the comfort of your villa near the Knuckles Mountains
The Mudhouse
Choose between early morning bird-watching walks, kayaking on the lake, learning to cook local food, or relaxing in a hammock at The Mudhouse.
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Sri Lanka
The History & Culture of Sri Lanka
Explore the incredibly diverse island of Sri Lanka, taking an in-depth look at its history and culture. We chose boutique hotels which make the most of each place you visit.
Venture north to the tip of the country to Jaffna, an area often overlooked by tourists and home to a compelling history and culture. With a longer-than-usual stay in the Cultural Triangle in two different areas, you’ll get to experience even more fascinating ancient sites, temples and rural life. You’ll get under the surface of Sri Lanka taking in its scenic landscapes as you traverse from north to south enjoying some of our best signature experiences.
Highlights
Jaffna
Discovering the distinct culture and food scene in the north around the lesser-visited area of Jaffna
Cultural Triangle
Spend five days exploring the fascinating ancient cities, temples and rural life around the Cultural Triangle, getting to understand the history of Sri Lanka
Galle Fort
Exploring Galle Fort with a local historian
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Sri Lanka
Luxury Family Adventure
This family adventure through Sri Lanka is designed to help you uncover the best of the island in style, with minimal travel hassle. From scenic landscapes to unique excursions, every moment is crafted to bring your family together in shared experiences. With chauffeur-guided journeys and a scenic seaplane flight, you’ll minimise travel time and enjoy spectacular aerial views of this beautiful island.
Highlights
Yala National Park
Discover wildlife on thrilling safaris in Yala National Park, from leopards to elephants.
South Coast
Unwind on the south coast at a luxurious beachside resort offering yoga, surfing, and ocean vistas.
Private seaplane transfers
Savour ultimate comfort with private seaplane transfers, luxury lodges, and dedicated service throughout.
Cultural Triangle
Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunrise, soaking in the breathtaking views of the Cultural Triangle.
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Sri Lanka
Classic Family Sri Lanka
This tour covers the well-known highlights of Sri Lanka with a few little twists. It’s an ideal itinerary for first-time visitors who want to feel immersed in the destination and have fun along the way.
Both the route and accommodation have been planned to suit families. Each hotel has something unique to make the trip extra special, whether it’s the view, the location, great family rooms or simply the warmest welcome in town.
Transport is with your own chauffeur guide who will remain with you for most of the tour. You can use the vehicle to go on as many day trips and excursions as you wish.
Highlights
Yala National Park
Binoculars at the ready to search for leopards and elephants in the wilds of Yala National Park
Tea Plantations
Cool off and enjoy the clear mountain air in the tea plantations
South Coast
Relax and enjoy the welcome at a lovely, family-friendly boutique hotel on the south coast.
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Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka Summer Family Adventure
This suggested itinerary balances exploration, downtime, and fun. It is perfect for families seeking a unique adventure from Easter through the summer holidays that will keep older kids and teens entertained and inspired.
The trip takes you across the island to Sri Lanka’s east coast, which has a different climate from the rest of the country. It is at its best at this time of year.
From wildlife safaris to cycling through ancient ruins, we’ve designed this trip at a pace that works for a family holiday, blending adventure with moments of relaxation. Carefully selected accommodation, with family-friendly rooms and facilities, ensures everyone feels at home while immersing in Sri Lanka’s stunning landscapes and rich culture.
Highlights
Wilpattu National Park
Safari in Wilpattu National Park, searching for leopards, sloth bears, and exotic birds in peaceful surroundings.
Cultural Triangle
Cycle through the Cultural Triangle and climb Pidurangala Rock for breathtaking sunset views of the famous Sigiriya Rock.
Cultural Triangle
Explore The Cultural Triangle, where ancient sites like Sigiriya and Anuradhapura show the importance of Sri Lanka in the architecture field since as far back as 1000BC
Gal Oya National Park
Spot elephants and wildlife during a boat safari in Gal Oya National Park.
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