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Classic Holidays in Sri Lanka

Immersion & Discovery

AITO

What’s included:

With ETG, what’s included goes well beyond the basics. From the moment your trip begins to your final farewell, the essentials are already taken care of, leaving you free to immerse, explore and enjoy without the hassle of hidden extras.

Here’s what comes as standard in all of our holidays:

All flights (unless you’ve booked your own!)
Expert guides and drivers
All accommodation
Many meals and snacks
Immersive experiences throughout
All regional transfers
Tips
24/7 In-Country support
Personal travel consultant throughout

Pricing:

As every holiday is bespoke, prices vary depending on destination, flights, hotel choices, inclusions and travel dates. We aim to include as much as possible upfront, so you know exactly where you are. As an approximate guide:

Bespoke Holidays £4,500 - £8,500pp
Bespoke Luxury Holidays £8,500 - £14,500pp
Bespoke Family Holidays from £4,000 - £7,500pp

Classic Sri Lanka Holiday Ideas

Sri Lanka is where ETG began, and where our deep local roots allow us to offer classic itineraries with a difference. These holidays include undisputed highlights like Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Kandy’s Temple of the Tooth, and the misty tea hills around Ella. But they’re also shaped around the things that make travel truly memorable: an amazing local guide, a perfect curry, or a little detour you didn’t expect.

Sri lankan cook in a class
Foodie/Cultural

Sri Lanka

A Foodie Journey Through Sri Lanka

17 Days
Wildlife

Sri Lanka

Natural and Wild Sri Lanka

22 Days
White Water Rafting Sri Lanka
Family

Sri Lanka

Family Adventure in Sri Lanka

16 Days
Wildlife

Sri Lanka

Classic Sri Lanka & Undiscovered Maldives

14 Days
Explore Full Itinerary
Sri lankan cook in a class
Foodie/Cultural
17 Days

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) 

Explore Full Itinerary
Wildlife
22 Days

Sri Lanka

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

Explore Full Itinerary
White Water Rafting Sri Lanka
Family
16 Days

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

Explore Full Itinerary
Wildlife
14 Days

Sri Lanka

Classic Sri Lanka & Undiscovered Maldives

This holiday is Sri Lanka and The Maldives with a twist, delighting travellers who want to experience the Indian Ocean nations authentically yet in comfortable surroundings.

After a carefully crafted eight-day itinerary in Sri Lanka, rather than being whisked away to your resort on landing in The Maldives, you’ll see the real culture and people of this island nation with a guesthouse stay on a local island.

Of course, you’ll also get the classic Maldivian resort experience to ensure you have a chance to unwind in luxurious surroundings before you fly home.

Highlights

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

Explore UNESCO heritage Sigiriya Rock Fortress at sunset with stunning views over the tropical forests of the cultural triangle

 

Male

Discover the city of Male that climbs out of the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean

 

Dreamy resort

Enjoy the luxurious life in a picture-postcard Maldives resort

Meet Our Experts

Holly is a true Sri Lanka enthusiast, with a talent for designing holidays that blend the must-see highlights with the hidden corners of the country. Whether it’s a family-friendly wildlife encounter, a romantic retreat in the tea hills, or an off-the-beaten-track adventure, Holly loves curating trips that surprise and delight her clients.

illustration of Holly

“If you’re exploring Yala National Park, my top tip is to skip the busy Block 1 and head to the quieter Block 5 instead. It’s far less crowded, and you’ll actually feel like you’re in the wild.”

Holly Newing
Sri Lanka Specialist

The Best Times to Go on a Honeymoon in Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka is a fantastic year-round destination, though the best time depends on where you’re heading. For south and west coast beaches, plus the central cultural regions, December to April brings the driest and sunniest conditions. If you’re planning to explore the east or want a quieter experience with fewer travellers, the May to September period is ideal.

Thanks to Sri Lanka’s unique weather patterns, we can usually find sunshine somewhere on the island, and we’ll help plan your trip around it.

The Finest Classic Hotels in Sri Lanka

From converted tea bungalows to breezy beach villas, our favourite hotels combine comfort with character. We handpick places that reflect the soul of Sri Lanka, where service is warm, the food is exceptional, and the setting unforgettable.

Camellia Hills view

Hatton - Deluxe

Camellia Hills

Buckingham Place, sri lanka (2)

Sri Lanka - Deluxe

Buckingham Place

East Coast - Eco/Adventure

Gal Oya Lodge

Colombo & around - Deluxe

Maniumpathy

The Last House (4)

Sri Lanka - Luxury

The Last House

Why House Pool 1

Galle - Deluxe

Why House

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Camellia Hills view

Hill Country, Sri Lanka

Camellia Hills

This tea planter’s bungalow is nestled amongst the mountainside and offers stunning views of the Castlereagh Reservoir.

Highlights

Highlights

Tea country views,

Intimate bungalow setting,

Infinity pool

Best for

Couples

Friends

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Buckingham Place, sri lanka (2)

The Deep South, Sri Lanka

Buckingham Place

Stylish, fun, contemporary villas with a great atmosphere and a sublime location overlooking Rekawa’s lagoon and beaches

Highlights

Highlights

Spacious suites,

Delicious food,

Secluded beach

Best for

Couples

Friends

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Sri Lanka

Gal Oya Lodge

Gal Oya Lodge is located in the heart of the Gal Oya National Park, not far from Sri Lanka’s most sizable inland body of water, Senanayake Samudraya. This wonderfully serene lake is surrounded by forests teeming with colourful wildlife.

All the teak and mara wooden furnishings have been locally and lovingly handmade and the building’s open-plan architecture maximises the panoramic mountain views.

Highlights

Highlights

Scenic spot,

Sublime swimming pool,

Amazing activities

Best for

Families,

Couples

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Colombo, Negombo & around, Sri Lanka

Maniumpathy

Old world charm and modern comforts in a restored heritage home in Colombo, boasting a relaxing swimming pool.

Highlights

Highlights

Heritage architecture,

Central location

Best for

Couples

Solos

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The Last House (4)

The Deep South, Sri Lanka

The Last House

An intimate beach hotel with attentive staff and panoramic views over the Indian Ocean.

Highlights

Highlights

Bawa-designed,

Lagoon views,

Secluded beach

Best for

Couples

Families

See More
Why House Pool 1

Galle, Sri Lanka

Why House

A beautiful boutique hotel. Attentive, friendly, relaxed comfort that feels more home away from home, than high life.

Highlights

Highlights

Tropical garden setting,

Boutique service

Best for

Couples

Friends

Sri Lanka Holidays

In Our Traveller’s 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.
Mr Genn

Travelled with teenage kids to experience a taste of Sri Lanka

Stayed in beautiful boutique hotels and enjoyed everything from snorkelling among the coral reefs of Trincomalee to riding in tuk tuks through Colombo.
The Moore Family

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.
Nigel
13 March 2025

The Best Experiences in Sri Lanka

A classic ETG holiday in Sri Lanka connects you with the island’s rich culture, nature, and everyday life. You might climb the ancient rock citadel of Sigiriya at sunrise, take the scenic train through the Hill Country, or track elephants in one of the island’s quieter national parks. Explore bustling markets, learn to make coconut sambol in a local kitchen, or share tea with a planter in the highlands. From temples to tuk-tuks, it’s all about meaningful experiences, without the rush.

Sigiriya, Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka

Sigiriya and Village Farm Experience

Sri Lanka - Tea Pluckers

Ella

The Pekoe Trail

Lunuganga and Brief Gardens in Abu Bay

Galle, The South Coast, Sri Lanka

Lunuganga & Brief Garden

Fishing Boats Galle

Galle

Galle Cycling, Boat Ride and Cooking Tour

Pettah Markets

Colombo & around

Colombo Food Coma

Hatton

Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)

Sigiriya, Cultural Triangle, Sri Lanka

Climbing Sigiriya and Cycling Tour

View Experience Page

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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Sri Lanka - Tea Pluckers

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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Lunuganga and Brief Gardens in Abu Bay

Galle, Sri Lanka

Lunuganga & Brief Garden

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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Fishing Boats Galle

Galle, Sri Lanka

Galle Cycling, Boat Ride and Cooking Tour

Explore inland from Galle on this exciting morning tour by bike and boat finally culminating in a cooking lesson.

The boat ride is accompanied by a naturalist with a specialist knowledge of the plant, aquatic and birdlife around.

The cycle ride is very relaxed and you can go at your own pace, should you rather drive through the villages by tuk tuk this can also be arranged. It’s only a short journey to your cookery lesson which is led by a local villager. Try your hand at making hoppers and have them for your lunch – a delicious end to the first part of your day.

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Pettah Markets

Colombo, Sri Lanka

Colombo Food Coma

Sri Lanka is known for its rich and varied culinary delicacies, and as the foodie heart of the country, Colombo is a great place to try as many of these dishes as you can manage.

Your local guide for the day is an expert in the Colombo food scene and will take you to a handpicked selection of restaurants or street food stalls (depending on the time of day) to sample foods like Tamil Ululdu and Vadai, delicious pastries, award-winning Lamprais, and some ice cream from one of the city’s oldest and most popular dessert spots.

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Adam's Peak (Sri Pada)

In the south of Sri Lanka’s Hill Country, Adam’s Peak (Sri Pada) rises dramatically above the surrounding landscape. At over 2,000 metres, this mountain is not just a natural marvel but a deeply spiritual site that has drawn pilgrims for over a millennium. What makes it truly compelling is the “Sri Pada” footprint near the summit – a 1.8-metre rock formation attributed to different deities across Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian traditions.

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Sri Lanka, Cultural Triangle

Climbing Sigiriya and Cycling Tour

Visitors to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle visit or climb Sigiriya Rock. This trip will give you an alternative perspective on the region as you explore the rock itself followed by a cycle ride around the surrounding countryside that lies in its shadow.

 

Important FAQs about Holidays in Sri Lanka

You’ll see Sri Lanka’s best-known sights, but with thoughtful pacing, authentic experiences, and hotels with real charm.

No. All ETG holidays are bespoke and private. You’ll travel at your own pace, with your own expert chauffeur guide.

Absolutely. Every ETG trip is tailored. These examples are just a starting point to inspire your own adventure.

We recommend a minimum of 10–14 days to enjoy Sri Lanka without rushing. We can advise on routes to match your time frame.