Compact Sri Lanka

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With careful planning, it's possible to see the beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka but with limited tiring journeys.

This holiday itinerary will work as a starting point if you're one of those travellers who want to see as much as possible, but keep long, tiring car journeys to an absolute minimum. And you won’t feel like you’ve compromised the experience by not exploring the whole island.

We suggest focusing on the central and northern parts of Sri Lanka. This area has incredible variety, so you'll still get a feel for the scenery and culture: from the historical sites in the Cultural Triangle to spectacular mountain scenery and tea plantations, wildlife in Wilpattu National Park and Kalpitiya’s beaches.

Along the way, your accommodation will be comfortable and in lovely, peaceful settings.

Highlights Include:

The Knuckles mountain range which has some of the most spectacular scenery in Sri Lanka
Spotting leopards and elephants on safari in Wilpattu National Park; the protected area is wilder and a lot less crowded than other parks in Sri Lanka
Discover dolphins and sperm whales off the beach on the Kalpitiya Peninsula

As with all of our suggested itineraries, we can tailor-make your holiday to suit your budget, style and expectations. Find out about our exclusive ‘Journey Planner’ here.

DAY 1 DEPART UK

Depart the UK on your flight to Colombo.

DAYS 2 & 3 THE NOTARY’S HOUSE FARM LIFE

Meet you chauffeur-guide on arrival at Colombo Airport. Transfer to your boutique hotel where you will be for a two-night stay. Your holiday begins with a full day of relaxation amidst the tropical gardens.

DAYS 4- 6 HILL COUNTRY TEA & MOUNTAINS

With your chauffeur-guide, you’ll transfer to the beautiful hill country for three nights on the edge of the Knuckles Mountain range. Spend your time exploring the tea fields with your guide, learning how the leaves are grown, picked and processed. You’ll even have the opportunity to meet the pickers and perhaps try carrying one of the tea baskets.

On your second day, trek around the remote Knuckles mountain range to the top of Mount Hunnasgiriya with your local naturalist and guide. Along the way, you’ll have an expert’s insight into the wildlife and landscape, as well as the opportunity to enjoy incredible views over the tea estates and Victoria Reservoir.

DAYS 7 - 9 CULTURAL TRIANGLE HISTORY AND LOCAL LIFE

Head east with your chauffeur-guide towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. Visit the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa and the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress from unique vantage points and also learn firsthand about the history of the area and the life and work of villagers.

DAYS 10 & 11 WILPATTU NATIONAL PARK WILDLIFE ADVENTURES

Your driver will transport you to Wilpattu National Park, one of the country's most important conservation areas. During your two-night stay, you’ll enjoy an authentic wilderness adventure, spotting leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of beautiful birdlife. Wilpattu is a lot less busy than other parks in the country, making for a much more peaceful location to venture out on safari without the tourist crowds.

DAYS 12 - 15 KALPITIYA BEACH RELAXATION

Head to the west coast with your driver for several days of relaxation on the beaches of Kalpitiya - the perfect way to end your holiday. The area is known for its whale and dolphin watching opportunities, as well as watersports. Sit back and chill out at your lovely accommodation or on the quiet beaches.

DAY 16 FLY HOME

Your driver will drop you at Colombo airport to depart on your flight back to the UK.

As every holiday is unique to you, prices vary. To give you an indication, two-week holidays range from roughly £3,000 to £8,000 per adult, with an average price of £3,500. We also offer substantial child and seasonal discounts.

To start your journey, talk to one of our friendly consultants today.

Since every traveler is unique - Call our experts on 1-888-577-8452 or use the quote request form below for your personalised vacation itinerary.

Inclusions

Your personalised quotation with Experience Travel Group will include.

International Flights (we can omit if you prefer)
Accommodation as described
Privately guided tours and transfers
Original Experience Travel Group "Signature" experiences
Full financial protection (full ABTA and ATOL bonding)
24-hour in-country backup while away
Your dedicated travel expert in the UK

For more on our pricing policy read here.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the hotels and villas within this holiday as standard...

Aliya Resort & Spa, Sigiriya

A spacious and modern resort with views of Sigiriya Rock and a great swimming pool and spa.

Ashburnham Estate, Elkaduwa

Set in the midst of a working tea plantation on the edge of the Knuckles mountain range.

The Ibis, Wilpattu

A small property situated on the outskirts of Wilpattu National Park with lovely gardens and friendly staff.

The Notary's House, Pannala

A charming six-bedroom hotel set amidst manicured gardens, offering a calm and serene space to relax into your Sri Lankan holiday.

Villa Sante, Kalpitiya

A hideaway at the top of Kalpitiya Lagoon, great for relaxation or to enjoy kite surfing in season.

You can book this holiday tour on its own, with flights or it can be tailored for you.

Here are the experiences & activities within this holiday as standard...

Pidurangula Rock, Sigiriya

Just beside Sigiriya Rock Fortress lies another granite rock jutting out of the surrounding lowland, Pidurangala Rock.

Polonnaruwa, Polonnaruwa

Sri Lanka's third ancient captal, home to some of the finest stone carvings and monuments

Polonnaruwa Cycling Tour, Polonnaruwa

Cycle around the relatively compact and well preserved ruins of Sri Lanka's second great historical capital.

Sigiriya and Village Farm experience, Sigiriya

Visit local farms and learn firsthand about the life and work of the villagers, enjoy a home-cooked lunch and visit the stunning Sigiriya rock fortress

An idea for your holiday