Enquire
Call usClassic Sri Lanka
A first-timer’s journey through Sri Lanka
10 Day Itinerary
Discover the timeless allure of Sri Lanka, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” a country defined by its extraordinary diversity and warmth. This captivating island weaves together ancient kingdoms, emerald landscapes, and deeply rooted traditions that have shaped its cultural spirit for millennia. From the rhythm of daily life in rural villages to the fragrance of spices carried on the breeze, every encounter reveals a new facet of the island’s heritage.
Your journey begins in the heart of the Cultural Triangle, where monumental rock fortresses rise above the plains and centuries-old ruins whisper stories of a proud civilisation. Cycle through the archaeological treasures of Polonnaruwa, stand atop the legendary Sigiriya Rock, and experience the harmony between nature and history that defines this region.
Travel onward to Kandy, the island’s spiritual centre and a living testament to its Buddhist heritage. Continue into the mist-covered hills of Tea Country, where colonial-era bungalows and rolling plantations reflect Sri Lanka’s enduring connection to its past. Conclude your adventure on the sunlit South Coast, where the ramparts of Galle Fort overlook palm-fringed shores and the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the ocean.
This 10 day itinerary includes:
- 3 nights at Water Garden Sigiriya – Deluxe Villa, Bed & Breakfast, Sigiriya
- 2 nights at Adigar’s Manor – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast, Kandy
- 2 nights at Ceylon Tea Trails – Luxury Room, Fully Inclusive, Tea Country
- 2 nights at Cape Weligama – Luxury Villa, Bed & Breakfast, South Coast
- Private chauffeur-guide throughout Cultural Triangle, Kandy, and transfers
- Experiences: Sigiriya Rock Fortress climb, Polonnaruwa cycling tour, Minneriya safari, Temple of the Tooth visit, Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, Kandyan cultural show, scenic train to Hatton, tea estate walk with tasting and picnic at a view point, guided Galle Fort tour
Prices from £3,390pp
Day 1 – 2
Day 1 – Overnight Flight From London To Colombo
Board your overnight flight from London to Colombo, embarking on a journey to the tropical paradise of Sri Lanka.
Day 2 – Arrival & Transfer To Sigiriya
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to the Cultural Triangle. Check into your luxurious resort amidst lush gardens and waterways, with the afternoon free to relax and settle in.
Overnight: Water Garden Sigiriya – Deluxe Villa, Bed & Breakfast
Day 3 – 4
Day 3 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Polonnaruwa Cycling
In the morning, climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO-listed 5th-century citadel renowned for its ancient frescoes, mirror wall, and panoramic summit views. In the afternoon, cycle through the medieval ruins of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient palaces, stupas, and intricately carved Buddhas.
Overnight: Water Garden Sigiriya – Deluxe Villa, Bed & Breakfast
Day 4 – Minneriya National Park Safari
Spend the morning at leisure, perhaps enjoying the resort’s serene surroundings. In the afternoon, embark on a thrilling jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, spotting herds of wild elephants and diverse wildlife around the ancient reservoir.
Overnight: Water Garden Sigiriya – Deluxe Villa, Bed & Breakfast
Day 5 – 6
Day 5 – Transfer To Kandy & Temple Of The Tooth
After breakfast, transfer to Kandy, the hill capital, and check into your elegant boutique hotel. In the evening, visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic, a pinnacle of Sri Lankan heritage housing the revered Buddha’s tooth.
Overnight: Adigar’s Manor – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 6 – Botanical Gardens & Cultural Show
Stroll through the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, home to exotic orchids, spice groves, and towering palms. In the afternoon, enjoy a vibrant cultural show featuring traditional Kandyan dances, showcasing the rich heritage of the region.
Overnight: Adigar’s Manor – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 7 – 8
Day 7 – Scenic Train To Hatton & Tea Trails
Board the scenic train from Kandy to Hatton, winding through misty hills and emerald tea plantations. Check into your elegant bungalow at Ceylon Tea Trails and savor a fabulous colonial-style high tea in the afternoon.
Overnight: Ceylon Tea Trails – Luxury Room, Fully Inclusive
Day 8 – Tea Estate Walk, Tasting & Waterfall Picnic
Embark on a guided tea estate walk, learning about the harvesting and processing of world-famous Ceylon teas, followed by a tasting session. Later, enjoy a delightful picnic at a view point, surrounded by the lush beauty of Tea Country.
Overnight: Ceylon Tea Trails – Luxury Room, Fully Inclusive
Day 9 – 11
Day 9 – Transfer To South Coast & Beach Relaxation
Depart Tea Country and transfer to the stunning South Coast. Check into your luxurious clifftop villa and spend the day relaxing by the palm-fringed beaches, soaking in the tranquil ocean views.
Overnight: Cape Weligama – Luxury Villa, Bed & Breakfast
Day 10 – Galle Fort Tour & Leisure
In the morning, join a guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, a 17th-century Dutch stronghold, exploring its colonial history, ramparts, and charming streets. The afternoon is at leisure to roam the fort’s boutiques, cafes, or simply relax at your resort.
Overnight: Cape Weligama – Luxury Villa, Bed & Breakfast
Day 11 – Departure From Colombo
After breakfast, enjoy a private transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight home.
Additional Inspiration
Browse our other destination itineraries and blog posts for insider tips, personalised recommendations, and advice on avoiding tourist traps – helping make every journey smoother, smarter, and more memorable.
Travel more, Travel better.
Call us now on 020 8502 8300 and one of our team would be happy to help start planning your personalised trip.
Alternatively, click below to send us a message or request a call back.