The Luxury Sri Lanka Loop 20D19N (Trains, Tea Trails, Safari & Coast)

Touch down at Colombo International Airport where a personal chauffeur guide will warmly greet you. After breezing through the airport formalities, you'll be whisked away to your private car, setting the tone for an intimate journey ahead. In just a short 20-minute drive, you'll find yourself in the coastal town of Negombo, ready to check into your 5 star haven and begin your adventure.

You'll be staying at The Wallawwa, a charming boutique 200-year-old colonial manor, lovingly restored and nestled within acres of impeccably landscaped tropical gardens. This serene hideaway offers a tranquil rural escape, where timeless elegance blends effortlessly with luxurious modern touches. Once settled in, the afternoon is yours to do nothing or everything. With just 17 secluded suites, you’ll enjoy ultimate privacy and peace amidst lush surroundings. Unwind in the hotel's lush spa, savor Asian fusion dishes at the restaurant, or relax by the swimming pool. Located on Minuwangoda Road in Kotugoda, The Wallawwa is only 15 minutes from Colombo International Airport and a short 30-minute drive from the bustling city center.

This evening, treat yourself to a culinary experience at the hotel’s open-sided restaurant, where you’ll dine with enchanting views of 200-year-old tropical gardens. Savor expertly crafted Asian Fusion dishes, made from the freshest local ingredients, with fruits, vegetables, and herbs harvested daily from the hotel’s own lush kitchen garden. Every bite is a burst of vibrant flavour. Pair your meal with a carefully curated selection of wines, handcrafted cocktails, spirits, or beers, elevating your fine dining experience in this serene, nature-filled setting.

Awaken to the morning’s first light and savour a delightful breakfast in readiness for the day’s affair. Your adventure gets underway with a cycling tour through the heart of Negombo city. For the next 2-3 hours, immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of local life, where the rhythm of the city dances to the beat of its fishing folk.

Along the way, you will get ample opportunity to see the Dutch Fort, Fish Harbor, Lagoon, Hamilton Canal, Fish Market, and more. Following a gleeful morning ride, we’ll pause for a refuelling lunch at a local restaurant in the city before returning to the hotel to rest and unwind for an afternoon of leisure.

Optional: If you’re up for it, you may consider an architectural walk with a distinguished local architect (additional charge). It’s a great way to exhaust the afternoon’s hours—exploring Colombo through the eyes of Sri Lanka's architectural maestros, visiting their home and marvelling at the iconic buildings that grace the city’s skyline.

Tonight, be treated to another delightful Asian infused dinner at the hotel.

Wake up to an early breakfast before being transferred to Sigiriya. On arrival, you will check into your resplendent abode at the 5-star luxury Sigiriya Jungles. Nestled amidst verdant landscapes with breathtaking views of the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sigiriya Jungles offers an idyllic retreat in the heart of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. This luxurious haven invites you to indulge in both relaxation and adventure, where history and modern comfort intertwine. Set on a picturesque 10-acre property, the resort’s naturally landscaped gardens harmoniously blend with the ancient surroundings, evoking the grandeur of long-lost kingdoms.

Once settled in, you’ll embark on a Hiriwadunna Village trek—an amazing way to dive into the heart of Sri Lankan nature and culture. Begin your tour with a whimsical ride on a bullock cart or a jolly tractor, meandering around the village pond. Then, veer off on a catamaran, drifting gracefully to the other side of the village. From there, it’s a gleeful saunter amidst verdant paddy fields and bustling veggie patches until you stumble upon a village house. Here’s where the magic happens—you’ll get to see how traditional Sri Lankan food is cooked, followed by a delicious, authentic lunch.

After all that adventure, head back to the hotel to relax for the afternoon. Watch the sun go down as you unwind at the bar or take a refreshing dip at the outdoor pool. Relax at the yoga pavilion, spa and wellness centre, or the jungle gym.

Tonight, delight in a tantalizing feast of Sri Lankan cuisine at your hotel, rich with exotic flavors and aromatic spices, as you soak in breathtaking views of the village, rolling paddy fields, and the majestic Sigiriya and Pidurangala rocks. The gentle, refreshing breeze adds a touch of magic, reawakening your senses and enhancing the entire dining experience, making each bite as invigorating as the surroundings themselves.

Optional: This morning, set out on an early adventure for an optional climb to the summit of Sigiriya Rock Fortress at precisely 5am—the morning sunrise from its peak is unlike anything you’ve seen before. Following an eventful morning, return to the hotel for a well-deserved breakfast.

Lauded as the “8th Wonder of the World” and flaunting its UNESCO World Heritage badge, the Sigiriya Rock Fortress is nothing short of an architectural spectacle. Erected by the visionary King Kasyapa in the 5th century A.D., this citadel served as a royal stronghold for 18 years. Among the natural wonders of this towering fortress lies a sheltered pocket, accessible by a spiral stairway, displaying famed frescoes that are truly captivating. On the summit of the rock, an area of nearly one hectare, sits the former royal palace that was surrounded by an outer wall perched on the brink of a precipice! Today, the Sigiriya 5th-century water gardens have been restored to their original splendour by the Central Cultural Fund, a UNESCO-sponsored initiative.

Later, participate in a hands-on cooking demonstration at the hotel to spice up your culinary skills! You will learn the secrets behind a few Sri Lankan dishes accompanied by a skilled chef. Once your creations are complete, sit down to savour a mouthwatering Sri Lankan rice and curry lunch.

Come afternoon, venture off on a thrilling and exclusive jeep safari through Minneriya National Park to witness one of the most extraordinary sights. During the periods of June to September, when the heat of the season is in peak glory, hundreds of elephants gather around the Minneriya Tank in search of water. This phenomenal gathering is a rare and spectacular event; one offering a unique opportunity to see such a large number of elephants in one place—an experience you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Note: Depending on the elephant migration patterns, the safari will be done in Minneriya or Kaudulla or Eco Park.

Afterwards, return to the hotel by evening and savour another befitting dinner to crown a perfect day.

Enjoy a delightful breakfast before transferring to Kandy. Embrace a 2.5-hour rollercoaster through 90 kilometres (56 miles) of vibrant scenery. First stop: the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage wonder and the biggest cave sanctuary on the planet. Dating from the 1st century BC, this ancient marvel dazzles with 2,000 square metres (21,528 square feet) of walls and ceilings alive with over 150 mesmerising Buddha images, topped by a towering 14-metre Buddha carved straight from the rock.

Following your visit to Dambulla Cave Temple, jump back into your private ride and visit a spice garden in Matale. Here, unwind with a 10-15 minute Ayurvedic massage surrounded by fragrant plants—a fleeting yet heavenly escape before the next leg of your journey.

Head back on course, tracing the final stretch of the road to Kandy. On arrival, check into your hotel at the charming 5-star Castle Hill Bungalow, cradled in the heart of Kandy. Perched above Kandy and just a 10-minute stroll from the town center, Castle Hill Bungalow offers a luxurious boutique stay in a historic mansion surrounded by lush, sloping gardens. Delight in Sri Lankan, Western, and Eastern cuisine served in the shared dining room, all while soaking in panoramic views of Kandy’s vibrant town, tranquil lake, and majestic mountains. From this charming hideaway near Kandy Lake, immerse yourself in the town’s breathtaking beauty and experience the warm embrace of authentic Sri Lankan hospitality.

Lunch is at your own expense! We recommend sticking to the restaurants nearby—there’s surely the perfect spot for you with lots of options, from delicious local Sri Lankan dishes to a variety of international cuisine.

Your afternoon is spent exploring Kandy, the storied hill capital that ruled from 1514 to 1815 AD. Once known as Senkadagala, this UNESCO World Heritage site is a living canvas of Sri Lankan history. Wander past the serene lake, majestic temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and the beautifully preserved royal palace ruins. Then, cap off your adventure with a lively 20-minute tuk-tuk ride through the heart of this historic city before returning to the hotel for dinner.

After breakfast, you’ll be whisked into the first adventure of the day, a spine-tingling trek to the captivating Udawatta Kele Sanctuary. Here, you will find layers of vibrant vegetation sprawling in phases from the towering canopy to the delicate sub-canopy, all the way down to the rich and shady undergrowth. The thick foliage is so abundant that sunlight barely kisses the forest floor, leaving a serene, shadowy world teeming with the seedlings of future giants and creeping vines that elegantly stretch toward the sky. Among the marvels of this ancient forest is the grand “Pus Wela” or Entada pursaetha, a colossal liana that has spiralled its way through the treetops for over 200 to 300 years, a living testament to nature’s endurance.

The afternoon brings with it another exciting walk. This time, a blissful stroll around Lake Kandy. Its central location makes it easily accessible and one of the best spots to experience nature amidst shimmering lake scenery. A further 10-15 minute stroll brings you to the magnificent Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. This precious relic, brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century A.D., has long been a symbol of sovereignty, famed for housing Buddha’s sacred tooth. Its ornate architecture, golden canopy, and intricate carvings reflect deep spiritual significance, drawing visitors to its serene, hallowed halls.

If you desire, you can spend more time here before returning to the hotel, where a tantalising dinner affair awaits.

Savour breakfast before embarking on a scenic train journey to Hatton. Board the train from Kandy/Peradeniya Railway for a captivating voyage through Sri Lanka's verdant highlands. As you chug along, the train meanders through a tapestry of emerald tea plantations, sparkling waterfalls, and quaint village scenes. With each turn, the misty mountains and rolling hills unveil a new, enchanting vista, making the ride feel like a serene passage through a dreamscape.

Upon arrival in Hatton, you’ll be greeted by your chauffeur guide and transferred to the Ceylon Tea Trails Bungalows. You’ll step into a world where history and nature intertwine seamlessly. Nestled in Sri Lanka’s UNESCO World Heritage Central Highlands, these five historic tea-planter bungalows rise gracefully at 1,250 meters above sea level. Here, the ambiance is a perfect harmony of relaxed elegance and refined charm. Immerse yourself in the lush, fern-clad landscape, play a round of tennis or croquet, or simply unwind by shimmering swimming pools offering a timeless escape in an idyllic setting

Enjoy a decadent 3 course lunch upon arrival. By noon, indulge in an afternoon tea experience that harks back to colonial times. This delightful ritual, reminiscent of bygone days, offers delicate bites and tea in a setting that evokes the charm of English meadows and Scottish Highlands.

As evening falls, savour a sophisticated 4-course dinner. The meal, served by a crackling fireplace, highlights the chefs’ exceptional culinary skills and offers a taste of exquisite artistry.

Begin your day with a fragrant cup of tea followed by a delightful breakfast. Embark on a journey through Sri Lanka’s tea country, either on foot or by bike, guided by our expert Tea Trails Naturalist or Experience Guide. Explore a rich tapestry of biodiversity as you traverse trails that weave through lush tea plantations and verdant forest patches, home to rare amphibians, vibrant birds, and elusive leopards. Choose from our Bungalow-to-Bungalow Trails, ranging from 4 to 15 kilometers, or immerse yourself in the local flora and fauna with our captivating tea trails, each offering a unique perspective on the valley's natural and historical wonders.

Alternatively, you can spend your morning kayaking on Castlereagh Lake. Glide across the tranquil waters where breathtaking views of tea-covered mountains unfold before you. The mornings offer a magical experience, as the sun pierces through the mist to cast a shimmering glow on the glassy lake, revealing the majestic mountains that embrace this serene oasis.

After your exploration, enjoy a delectable three-course lunch featuring silky vegetable soup, a tantalising main course, and an artful dessert at one of the bungalows. Savour a leisurely afternoon tea to complete your day.

Dinner at the hotel wraps up your adventure with a fine dining experience in your luxurious retreat.

Begin the day with a delicious breakfast before switching on your adventurous side for a scenic train ride to Haputale. This immersive train ride is often considered one of the most scenic train rides in the world, with mesmerising landscapes that shift before your eyes. So, for the next 3.5 hours, relish an old-world train journey and bespoke vistas through 100 kilometres (62 miles) of pure beauty. Whisk past lush plantations, mist-covered mountains, cascading waterfalls, and verdant valleys offering stunning views of the central highlands.

Arrive at Haputale Railway Station, where your distinguished chauffeur will escort you to your boutique sanctuary ensconced upon a secluded cliff in the Haputale mountain range at The Capoe House. This exquisite retreat boasts serene gardens, a sparkling pool amidst verdant greenery, and spacious, sunlit suites with private balconies offering breathtaking views of the majestic mountains. Once settled in, feast upon a refined lunch amidst these exotic vistas, with each dish artfully curated by the in-house chef.

The afternoon is at your leisure; take a calm stroll amidst the serene gardens, unwind by the pool, bar picturesque terrace or explore the scenic splendour surrounding you.

This evening, immerse yourself in a spellbinding dining affair at The Capoe House. Select from the opulent dining room, the breezy Verandah, or the starlit alfresco terrace, all set against majestic mountain panoramas. Indulge in vibrant Sri Lankan flavours, international delights, and local meals crafted using fresh herbs and vegetables from the bungalow’s gardens.

Following a sumptuous breakfast, don your adventure boots and set out for a morning exploration of the explosive Galapitagala Ancient Rock. This majestic 9-metre (30 feet) monolith, emerging from the earth like a timeless relic of ancient legend, calls to you from a distance. As you make your ascent, you’ll walk in the footsteps of Sri Lanka's ancestral visionaries, who once aspired to carve a grand human figure from this very stone. Upon reaching the pinnacle, you’ll be greeted by a mesmerising panorama: boundless mountain ranges stretch to the horizon, waterfalls sparkle like liquid diamonds, and the lush, verdant valleys of Narangolla unfurl in a verdant tapestry.

Once concluded, make your way back to the hotel for a lunch that’s as much a feast for the senses as a moment of reflection. Enjoy the serene mountain quietude while you savour your meal.

The morning kicks off with breakfast at your hotel before checking out for your transfer to Ella—a charming realm renowned for its enthralling vistas and laid-back vibe. But even more intriguing is the stunning Ella Gap—a hidden gem admired by all those who visit here. In this magical corner of Sri Lanka, mist-draped mountains rise from lush tea plantations, and every turn presents a bewitching scene.

En route, relish a sightseeing visit to the illustrious Nine Arch Bridge in the Demodara Loop. Spanning an astonishing 91 metres (295 feet) and reaching 24m (79 feet) high, this architectural gem creates a spellbinding tableau amidst a lush tapestry of dense jungle and rolling agricultural fields. Behind the railway, a vibrant forest flourishes, while below, the meticulously cultivated tea plantations add a touch of pastoral charm to this already alluring scene.

On arrival in Ella, you will be escorted by your private guide to the exquisite 98 Acres Resort and Spa. An elegant, chic hotel that stands on a scenic 98 acre tea estate. Unwind at the picturesque pool with unparalleled views of Ella Gap or simply relax in your chalet with a private balcony and savour the sweeping vistas of mist-kissed mountains and endless tea fields.

By noon, set out again, this time, on a refined nature trek to the distinguished Little Adam’s Peak, rising gracefully to 1,141 metres (3,743 feet.). This renowned destination, a favourite among travellers to Sri Lanka, invites you on an easy, yet rewarding hike. At the summit, savour a spectacular panoramic view and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the sunset before returning back to your hotel for a savoury dining encounter.

After a decadent breakfast, hit the road for a magical escape to Yala/Tissamaharama. En route, get swept away by the mesmerising Ravana Waterfall, a stunning cascade draped in legend. Named after the legendary King Ravana from Sri Lankan folklore, this waterfall is steeped in myth and beauty. It’s said that Ravana used these waters to bathe, adding a layer of mystique to its natural splendour.

Lunch is set at a local restaurant before continuing on your journey to Yala/Tissamaharama. When you arrive, check into your hotel at the ultra-sleek Jetwing Yala. This masterpiece of coastal luxury is set amidst the serene Indian Ocean and Yala’s untamed wilderness. Within its confines, you will find 80 opulent rooms adorned in vibrant reds and greens, a 75-metre infinity pool, a blissful spa, and an unforgettable fusion of elegance and adventure amid Sri Lanka’s wild beauty.

After settling in, relish the leisurely afternoon as you deem fit—a soothing spa session, a dip in the pool, or just bask in the calm of your lavish snugs amidst otherworldly views.

Tonight’s dinner is an otherworldly encounter. Delight in an exquisite array of global and local delicacies, from fresh seafood to tantalising tapas, served at live-action stations. All this unfolds against the breathtaking backdrop of the Indian Ocean and Yala’s wilderness.

Kickstart your day with an adventurous twist! With a packed breakfast in tow, embark on an exhilarating private jeep safari at Yala National Park, where Sri Lanka’s wild heart beats. Just in the southeastern corner of Sri Lanka, Yala beckons you to explore its vast wildlife inhabitants and the beauty of the Sri Lankan landscape converge. As your safari vehicle rumbles over rugged trails, you'll witness the park's diverse fauna—ranging from elusive leopards and majestic elephants to colorful bird species, wild boars crocodiles and playful monkeys—amidst a backdrop of stunning savannahs and dense jungles. The adventure offers a unique glimpse into the vibrant ecosystem of one of Sri Lanka’s most renowned wildlife sanctuaries

Following the morning’s escapade, return to your hotel for a laid-back lunch.

Gear up for round two with an afternoon safari, plunging further into Yala’s untamed splendour. Revel in the thrill of spotting elusive wildlife and soak in the park’s raw beauty before returning to your hotel once again for some well-deserved downtime. You may want to spend some time by the beach if you desire.

Shifting your gaze to the evening, tonight’s dinner is an extraordinary affair set against the backdrop of a world-famous natural reserve on one side and the great Indian Ocean on the other.

Set your sights on the thrilling adventures of the day. Breakfast comes packed before embarking on an exhilarating jeep safari through the hypnotic Bundala National Park. This vast sanctuary sprawls a staggering 6,216 hectares (15,339 acres) and features a canvas of dry thorny scrublands, serene marshes, and sparkling brackish lagoons, framed by the undulating sand dunes that border the coast.

Each facet of this natural haven unveils a wealth of sights and avian treasures, with around 200 species recorded, including 58 migratory species. Keep an eye out for the majestic painted stork, the elegant egrets, the striking black-headed ibis, and the vibrant purple herons as you traverse this park.

After your bird-watching expedition, lunch will be served at a local eatery, where the flavours of the region come alive in every bite.

Then, set off on a scenic transfer to Tangalle. Upon arrival, check into your cosy hotel and revel in the freedom of a laid-back afternoon at your own pace. The quintessential Coco Tangalle is a sleek black-and-white villa cascading over the Indian Ocean. It boasts just six uniquely designed, air-conditioned double bedrooms with ensuite bathrooms, a terrace, an infinity pool offering undisturbed views of the ocean and a private beach area.

As evening settles in, dinner is yours to plan and enjoy, with Tangalle offering a wealth of dining options to suit your taste and mood.

Your journey to Mirissa falls underway after a delightful breakfast. As you arrive, prepare to be captivated by the sheer beauty of Mirissa Beach, where the sand, as soft as powdered sugar, glistens under the sun, and the azure waves dance beneath a canopy of gracefully swaying coconut palms.

The western edge of the beach stretches invitingly, offering an expansive stretch of sand, just the perfect spot to sink your toes and let the gentle sea breeze caress your skin. As the bay gracefully arcs towards the east, you’ll find the tranquil waters blending seamlessly with the distant hum of the Galle-Matara Road. At the heart of Mirissa Bay lies a charming sandbar, a popular photo spot, which reveals a quaint island accessible by foot during low tide.

For those with a penchant for surfing, the western tip of the bay presents a delightful right-hand point break, perfect for catching waves. Venture further and immerse yourself in the local gems: wander along Polhena Beach with its serene vibe, marvel at the historic Dondra Lighthouse, and witness the spectacular force of nature at the Hummanaya Blow Hole. Each of these destinations adds a unique layer to your Mirissa adventure, ensuring a day filled with discovery and wonder.

Today’s lunch and dinner are at your discretion and expense. Mirissa boasts a plethora of exquisite dining options within easy reach. You will discover a vibrant array of gourmet restaurants and charming eateries, each offering a delightful culinary experience.

Post breakfast, set out for a 1 hour 30 minutes private transfer spanning 75 km (45 miles) to Galle. This coastal town brims with the very essence of Sri Lanka.

Just a few minutes from your hotel, stop for a sightseeing tour of Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage site built in the 16th century. The fort reveals a glimpse of colonial history which you will see in the well-preserved ramparts, bastions, and historical buildings. Within its touch, the National Maritime Museum seats, showcasing Sri Lanka’s maritime history with exhibits on shipwrecks, marine life, and navigation.

Once your sightseeing tour is concluded, you will be escorted to your luxe accommodation.

For the next two nights, find yourself enveloped in an atmosphere of unrivalled sophistication and grandeur at the transcendent Sun House, snuggled in the hills above Galle. This colonial gem, once home to a Scottish spice merchant, offers matchless views of the Galle harbour and fort while boasting upscale amenities including seven lavishly furnished rooms, lush gardens, a large living area, and a pool with bespoke service personalised to suit your style.

Once settled in, you have the whole afternoon to do as you please. You can relax and unwind back at your hotel or self-explore the old town, just the perfect escape to reflect on the town’s storied past. Wander along cobblestone streets, where distinguished colonial buildings, cafés, and exclusive boutiques await.

Both lunch and dinner are at your own expense. Take a curious stroll around town; there are many great spots to enjoy just the perfect meal.

Commence today by curating your ideal breakfast setting—whether it be within the elegant dining room, on one of the house’s breezy verandas, or in the serene garden beneath the shade of a majestic mango tree.

With breakfast behind you, the picturesque coastal city of Galle offers quite a number of thrilling attractions, and you’re invited to self-explore this coastal wonder at your own pace. Wander through vibrant markets, visit charming cafes, and admire the scenic coastal views from the fort’s ramparts. Don’t miss the serene beaches and the historic Dutch Reformed Church, which add to the town's captivating blend of culture and natural beauty.

Alternatively, you can choose to stay back at the hotel and spend the afternoon at your leisure. We recommend spending some peaceful time in the large living area, indulging in a refreshing pool session, or taking a calm stroll through the mango garden with invigorating views of Galle’s sultry coastline.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast, then check out of your hotel for your transfer to Colombo. For the next 2 hours, whisk through the southern coast of Sri Lanka, stretching a 150 km (93 miles) distance to Colombo.

Arrive in Colombo and proceed to check into the stylish 5-star Maniumpathy Boutique Hotel in Colombo's central Cinnamon Gardens District. The Maniumpathy Boutique Hotel is a lavish sanctuary of unparalleled grace, where regal splendour meets modern indulgence. With its grand suites adorned in exquisite finery, lush gardens blooming in serene elegance, and dining experiences crafted to perfection, this aristocratic gem offers a transcendent escape into pure, unbridled luxury.

Come afternoon, you’re free to spend this time at your leisure. You can either relish some cosy time at the hotel or shift your attention to some diversions in Colombo—the N.M. Perera Statue, House of Fashion, and Namel–Malini Punchi Theatre are all within walking distance, giving you an exciting lineup of options to explore.

Today's sprawls into action as usual, with a steamy breakfast at the hotel, then you’re off on a dreamy tuk-tuk ride through Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital. This electrifying tour takes you from the bustling bazaar and historic fort area to the immersive Viharamahadevi Park. While aboard, watch out for the lively Pettah market, admire the rustic colonial architecture adorning the Old Parliament, and take in the serenity of the Gangaramaya Temple.

Upon your tour’s conclusion, return to the comfort of your hotel and relish the afternoon at your leisure. The hotel’s plush amenities are always a great diversion after an eventful day. Relax by the serene garden pool, savor exquisite cuisine at the in-house restaurant, or unwind in your tastefully decorated room that blends traditional charm with contemporary luxury.

Enjoy your final breakfast at the hotel, letting the last moments of your journey linger. When it’s time, you’ll be smoothly transferred to Colombo International Airport, with everything arranged according to your flight schedule.

NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.