Exploring Galle Fort with a local historian
Beautiful Sri Lanka: the birthplace of Experience Travel Group back in 2004 and our spiritual home. An island too magnificent, too magical, and too much fun to keep to ourselves.
Over the years, we’ve built a wealth of experience and local insight along with an extensive network of amazing partners. Partners we’re proud to call our friends.
These wonderful people will show you the secret sides of the country.
Better still? You won’t have to second-guess or worry about a thing.
Our specialists will lift all the planning stress off your shoulders and curate a thoughtful trip, bespoke to you and your crew.
Our Unique Holidays in Sri Lanka
Relaxing, immersive, life-affirming adventures that show you the best of the destination. Packed with experiences that connect you to the country and are kind to its people and environment. Your holiday can be as adventurous or as luxurious as you choose, as every trip will be turned into your own bespoke package.
Here are some ideas to spark your curiosity…
Showing 7 Featured Itineraries
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East Coast
Digital Detox in Sri Lanka
This itinerary idea is perfect if you long to slow down, reconnect, and immerse yourself in Sri Lanka’s beauty. You’ll also veer off the beaten track, staying in gorgeous eco-lodges and homely retreats. Leave life’s constant buzz behind and savour meaningful connections with your companions, locals, and the natural world.
Highlights
Gal Oya National Park
Boat safaris on Sri Lanka’s largest lake, spotting elephants and vibrant birdlife
Knuckles Mountains
Hike hidden trails and discovering a disappearing way of life
Historic Galle
Explore the charming fort and the vibrant local food scene here
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Sri Lanka
A Foodie Journey Through Sri Lanka
When it comes to ‘foodie destinations’, Sri Lanka flies relatively under the radar – yet it has a fantastic culinary scene. We’ve designed this trip to sample its spices and rich flavours – most of which you’d never taste at home – and trace the island’s multicultural history through its delicious dishes… You’ll also have the chance to learn from great chefs, see the country’s ancient sites and stay in high-end hotels along the way.
Highlights
Tea Experience
Private cooking demo in the Hill Country, including a “teaology” experience
Ulagalla
A traditional Kamatha farmhouse dinner – up to 15 courses!
Smoke & Bitters
Sipping spice-infused cocktails at a buzzy beach-side restaurant within a coconut grove (recently celebrated as one of the best bars in Asia)
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Cultural Triangle
Natural and Wild Sri Lanka
This holiday is a take on our flagship Sri Lanka highlights itinerary, carefully tweaked to better suit those more interested in wildlife.
Packed with our best local experiences and our favourite tried and tested boutique hotels, we will ensure you’ll discover both the wildlife, culture, and diversity of this amazing island country.
Highlights
The Mudhouse
Experience rural life, relax in a hammock or explore the jungle trails while staying in unique accommodation at The Mudhouse.
Tree Tops Jungle Lodge
Enjoy an incredible, immersive wildlife experience at Treetops Jungle Lodge: where wild elephants co-exist with people
Beautiful Beaches
Relax on the wild, palm-fringed beaches of The Deep South
Cultural Triangle
Enjoy our unique insider tours of The Cultural Triangle, Kandy and Colombo. Typically we offer a distinct vantage point compared to DIY or more ‘package’ type holidays
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Cultural Triangle
Relaxed Sri Lanka Holiday
This laid-back tour takes you to some of Sri Lanka’s most exceptional hotels without the need for rushing, while also allowing you to see a wealth of the country’s scenery and culture. Sri Lanka is so beautiful inland that it’s worth taking your time to explore and experience what makes it so unique. If you can spare extra time, we think this holiday could also combine well with The Maldives, do call us to discuss.
Highlights
Cultural Triangle
Explore the many beautiful ancient sites of the Cultural Triangle from the comfort of one of the best hotels in the region
Tea Plantations
Take in the tea-clad hills with time for gentle walks and local exploration
Private chauffeur-guide
All travel with your very own chauffeur-guide, giving you the flexibility to explore at your own pace
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Ella
Slow Travel, Tea & Trains with Teardrop Hotels
Forget rushing around from one stop to another. This itinerary showcases the best of Sri Lanka – but slowly… travelling by rail and road.
We teamed up with Teardrop Hotels to create this exclusive trip – combining their glorious boutique properties (via the remarkable train journeys between them) and ETG’s classic experiences. It’s a winning recipe for an immersive and luxurious holiday.
Highlights
Scenic train journeys
The breathtaking views and sites on one of Asia’s most memorable train journeys
Heritage hotels
Exceptional heritage hotels that celebrate the island’s history, diversity and beauty
Immersive experiences
Curated and exclusive walks and experiences that bring out the magic of travel in Sri Lanka
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Anuradhapura
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
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Colombo & around
South Coast Discovery
This holiday minimises travel compared to typical Sri Lanka tours, blending wildlife and adventure between two coastal stays in distinct areas of the south coast—each showcasing a different side of the island’s charm.
You’ll explore with your private chauffeur- guide, balancing immersive cultural experiences with plenty of beach relaxation—an easygoing way to discover Sri Lanka’s diversity. Designed to feature both popular highlights and hidden gems, the itinerary is carefully structured to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey without travel fatigue. Your adventure begins and concludes along the stunning southern coastline.
Highlights
Yala National Park
Encounter elusive leopards and sloth bears on a private safari in Yala National Park.
Pekoe Trail
Immerse yourself in local culture on a scenic walk along the Pekoe Trail, meeting tea pluckers along the way.
Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary
Witness the incredible elephant feeding program at Udawalawe’s conservation sanctuary.
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In Our Travellers’ Words
Sri Lanka is truly a gem of the Indian Ocean
Our well-thought-out trip fulfilled our expectations and more. Our granddaughter was interested in the wildlife, culture, and the many exotic fruits and vegetables of Sri Lanka—as were we. Working with [ETG], we developed an itinerary that, at journey's end, gave us a sense that we had chosen a company that responded to our needs.
Sri Lanka made (very) easy!
Sri Lanka was a delight. The unique experiences ETG provided really brought the country to life. From the planning through to booking, and all the arragements, we really didn't have to think about a thing thanks to ETG's expertise and care.
Very highly regarded in Sri Lanka
Two-week tour through relatively undiscovered Sri Lanka staying in six bespoke locations from eco lodges to homestays. ETG were attentive to our needs, imaginative and they have a wonderful ethos/brand that we could see whilst we were travelling.
Why Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka packs a serious punch for an island of its size. Here’s what’s in store in the diverse land of tea, toddy and tuk tuks…
- Rich Culture: Amble through ancient cities, into temples carved into rock faces, and get caught up in the flurry of local festivals like Vesak Poya and the Galle Literary Festival.
- Incredible Wildlife: Spot leopards in Yala‘s quieter corners, sloth bears in Wilpattu, elephants in Udawalawe, or even blue whales off the southern coast.
- Diverse Landscapes: From the Pekoe Trail snaking through the cascading Tea Country to the golden beaches of Tangalle, no two days are ever the same.
- Warm Hospitality: Wherever you go, you’ll feel welcomed by famously friendly Sri Lankans.
Different types of
Sri Lanka holidays
Explore Experiences in Sri Lanka
Immersive experiences sit at the heart of ETG. Each one is specially designed to confound preconceptions and share magical, memorable, and truly exceptional moments.
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Cultural Triangle, Sigirya
Sigiriya and Village Farm Experience
Travel by tuk tuk and tractor as you explore a few local farms. Learn firsthand about the life and work of the villagers, who grow a variety of crops including sweet potato, manioc and finger millet. Meet the farmers and their families, and try your hand at some of the agricultural techniques they use each day.
Finally, sit down to a home-cooked lunch made entirely from ingredients grown on the land. As this experience sits well off the beaten tourist trail, you’ll likely attract as much curiosity from the locals as you feel yourself – expect a warm welcome and a truly authentic taste of rural life.
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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Pidurangala Rock
Located just north of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Pidurangala Rock is a site of spiritual and historical significance in its own right. The small temple at the base is thought to date back to the 6th century AD, and legend suggests King Kassapa used this forested hillside as both a place of worship and a strategic retreat while under threat from his brothers.
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Ella, Sri Lanka
The Pekoe Trail
The Pekoe Trail is a 300km network of walking routes designed to open up Sri Lanka’s hill country to responsible travellers. Spanning seven valleys and weaving through remote communities, the trail champions sustainable tourism, cultural preservation and local livelihoods.
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Galle, Sri Lanka
Lunuganga and Brief Gardens
Set beside tranquil Dedduwa Lake in Bentota, Lunuganga was once a colonial-era plantation. Geoffrey Bawa transformed it into a 15-acre garden estate that fuses tropical beauty with subtle modernist design—reflecting his signature “tropical modernism” philosophy. Pathways wind through symmetrical lawns, dense foliage and carefully framed vistas. Sculptures and hidden pavilions surprise at every turn.
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Hill Country, Sri Lanka
Lunch at a Social Enterprise Restaurant
As part of our “One Meal At A Time” initiative, we’ve partnered with social enterprise restaurants across Asia to bring travellers a deeper connection to their destination. In Sri Lanka’s hill country, near Bandarawela, we support a hospitality school that trains marginalised young people in cooking, service and life skills.
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Arugam Bay, Sri Lanka
Learn to Surf
Set on Sri Lanka’s sunny east coast, Arugam Bay has earned a global reputation among surfers for its smooth breaks and beautiful setting. It’s ideal for beginners thanks to consistent waves, warm waters, and fewer crowds than more famous surf destinations.
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Sigiriya, Sri Lanka
Pilikuttuwa Cave and Forest Temples
Spread across over 200 acres of countryside, the Pilikuttuwa site is one of Sri Lanka’s largest cave temple complexes. More than 100 natural caves and dripstone shelters dot the landscape, once offering refuge to Buddhist monks seeking solitude during the rainy season. Etched rock murals hint at the devotion of past centuries, while many shrines remain in quiet use by local worshippers today.
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Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka
Polonnaruwa Cycling Tour
Polonnaruwa was the second capital of Sri Lanka, from the 11th – 13th Century. Unlike in the first capital, Anuradhapura which is mainly composed of Buddhist religious sites, here you’ll find the remains of multi-storey palaces, royal pavilions and bathing ponds complete with changing rooms – all standing testament to the luxurious lifestyle of the royalty – alongside Buddhist and Hindu temples with flawless craftsmanship and artistry.
Half a day cycling through Polonnaruwa will bring the splendours of the city closer to you, transporting you to another time.
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Ella, Sri Lanka
Peradeniya Botanical Gardens
Located just outside Kandy, the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens were once the private grounds of Sri Lankan royalty before becoming one of the most celebrated gardens in the British Empire. Today, they remain the largest botanical gardens in Sri Lanka, covering 60 hectares and bordered by the Mahaweli River on three sides.
Meet Our Experts
“I love how Sri Lanka shakes things up. One moment you’re eye-to-eye with an elephant in the wild, the next you’re stretched out by your villa pool or heading into the hills for a ‘teaology’ experience. It’s got loads of depth, loads of charm, and our brilliant chauffeur-guides make exploring easy peasy.”
Holly
Sri Lanka Specialist
Explore Our Hotels & Villas in Sri Lanka
Wherever you go, and whatever you do, at the end of every day you can always be sure of a comfortable rest. Every location on our list of hotels is handpicked, and in its own way, shares the history, the hospitality, and the soul of Sri Lanka. Below are some examples of the different hotels we use — they’ll live long in your memory.
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The South Coast, Sri Lanka
Tekanda Lodge
A hilltop retreat made from natural materials and surrounded by 10 acres of organic tea and coconut plantations.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Family
Couples
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The South Coast, Sri Lanka
Malabar Hill
An emerald escape. Perched on high, with enviable views over jungle-clad hills to Weligama Bay. Serene, stylish, sophisticated.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Family
Couples
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Sri Lanka, Puttalam & The North West
The Mudhouse
Tucked away in sixty acres of forest and surrounded by serene lakes, The Mudhouse sits at the foot of the enigmatic Paramakanda Rock Temple. It’s a unique jungle retreat where rustic charm meets immersive adventure.
This eco-lodge offers a one-of-a-kind experience, with beautifully crafted, thatched huts made entirely from natural materials. Thoughtfully designed to blend seamlessly into the lush landscape, each private cluster of huts forms its own mini-village within the jungle, complete with spaces for sleeping, dining, and relaxing.
Highlights
Highlights
Fun local experiences,
Bike rides,
Birdwatching
Best for
Families
Nature nuts
Good to know
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The Deep South, Sri Lanka
Uga Chena Huts
The first luxury Safari Lodge set between Yala National Park and the ocean – great for wildlife and beach enthusiasts alike.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Couples
Honeymooners
Wildlife lovers
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Sri Lanka, The Deep South
Kulu Safaris
Sri Lanka’s original luxury wildlife outfit, Kulu’s responsible, immersive safaris offer an unforgettable rumble in the jungle: the remote camp comprises just four authentic safari tents.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Couples
Honeymooners
Wildlife lovers
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Hill Country, Sri Lanka
Ceylon Tea Trails
Four heaven sent hill country bungalows on the shores of beautiful Castlereagh Reservoir.
Highlights
Highlights
Best for
Couples
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From Our Travelogue
The Curious Traveller’s Expert Guide to Sri Lanka
Wondering when to visit Sri Lanka? Our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka will give you a more detailed breakdown of the best time of year to book a holiday, as well as tips on the best beaches, unmissable sites, and much more.
You’ll receive five emails from us as well as the guide you requested. They will be inspiring, helpful content about holidays in this country with ETG. You’ll then be added to our weekly newsletter list, but you can always unsubscribe using the link in any of our emails.
Important FAQs about Sri Lanka
At Experience Travel Group, we’ve been curating immersive Sri Lanka holidays since 2006, long before the island became a mainstream destination. Our deep-rooted local knowledge, trusted partnerships, and a love of meaningful travel mean we can show you what makes Sri Lanka so special.
Over the years, we’ve designed unique experiences that balance fun, cultural depth and discovery. From feeling the magic of Sigiriya’s lesser-known surroundings to tracking wildlife in peaceful parks (that aren’t packed with jeeps), our holidays go far beyond the typical tourist trail. Rather than simply “ticking off” the sights, you’ll make real connections with real people and the places you visit.
With our thoughtful planning and in-country support, you won’t have to worry about a thing (for once) and lean into your bespoke adventure. We don’t do off-the-shelf tours, we do hand-made holidays designed around your interests and travel style.
Come with us to the Sri Lanka we know and love.
Sri Lanka is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on where you’re going. If you’re focussing on the south and west coasts and the cultural heartland, time your visit between December and March. If you’d like to explore the east coast, then travelling in the summer months and September is your best bet for good weather and fewer crowds. Our experts will advise you and let you in one a few secret seasons. For a deep dive, read our seasonal guide to Sri Lanka.
Every ETG holiday is designed to feel effortless, immersive and stress-free.
Your bespoke package will include a private chauffeur-guide throughout and regional journeys like train travel. If you’d like us to arrange your international flights, just say the word.
Characterful hotels, many meals and unique experiences, (some secret!), all chosen to suit you by a Sri Lanka specialist who knows the country inside out.
You’ll also have the reassurance of 24/7 in-country support from our trusted local team.
And tips? Already covered — so you don’t need to worry about a thing.