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Call usSri Lanka: Ancient Cities & Living Forts
A Journey Through Heritage, Hills & Coastal Grace
7 Night / 8 Day Itinerary
Uncover Sri Lanka’s timeless charm on this seven-night journey through the island’s ancient cities, misty tea country and coastal citadels. Beginning with a peaceful night at a colonial manor near Colombo, travel through the island’s cultural heartlands and scenic highlands before ending within the storied ramparts of Galle Fort.
This itinerary invites you to experience the island’s living heritage – where sacred temples, royal gardens and colonial-era architecture coexist with vibrant local traditions. Journey from Kandy’s cultural treasures to the rolling tea estates of Nuwara Eliya, where cool mountain air and emerald slopes create a world of tranquillity. Continue south to Galle, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where cobbled streets, artisan boutiques and coastal views reflect centuries of maritime history.
Each stay has been handpicked for its sense of place, authenticity and character, with Teardrop Hotels’ restored heritage properties offering refined comfort, genuine hospitality and a true connection to Sri Lanka’s enduring spirit.
This 7 Night / 8 Day Itinerary Includes:
- 1 night in The Wallawwa – Wallawwa Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast, Kotugoda
- 2 nights in Goatfell – Concordia Bedroom, All Inclusive, Nuwara Eliya
- 2 nights in Camellia Hills – Lakeview Bedroom, All Inclusive, Dickoya (Hatton)
- 2 nights in Fort Bazaar – Bazaar Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast, Galle Fort
- Private chauffeur-guide and transfers throughout
- Optional scenic train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya
- Experiences: Royal Botanical Gardens, Temple of the Tooth, tea estate visits, highland hikes, guided walks through Galle Fort, boutique heritage stays.
- Direct return flights from London to Colombo
Prices From £2,734 per person
(Based on 2 adults sharing.)
Day 1 – 2
Day 1 – Overnight Flight London to Colombo
Depart London on your overnight flight to Colombo.
Day 2 – Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Kotugoda
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport and transfer to The Wallawwa, a serene colonial retreat surrounded by tropical gardens. Relax after your flight and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere of this 18th-century manor.
Overnight: The Wallawwa – Wallawwa Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast
Day 3 – 4
Day 3 – Kandy Highlights & Into Tea Country (Nuwara Eliya)
Travel inland via Kandy to visit the Temple of the Tooth and the Royal Botanical Gardens. Continue into the hills and check in at Goatfell above Nuwara Eliya’s tea slopes. Sundowners at the bungalow.
Overnight: Goatfell – Concordia Bedroom, All Inclusive
Day 4 – Pekoe Trail Walk & High Tea
Take a self-guided section of the Pekoe Trail from Pedro Estate toward Kandapola, returning for a late lunch. Enjoy complimentary afternoon high tea and a relaxed evening at the bungalow.
Overnight: Goatfell – Concordia Bedroom, All Inclusive
Day 5 – 6
Day 5 – Scenic Train to Hatton & Check-in at Camellia Hills
Ride the scenic train to Nanu Oya/Hatton and transfer to Camellia Hills, a five-bedroom tea bungalow overlooking the Castlereagh Reservoir. Afternoon at leisure; optional evening stroll by the water.
Overnight: Camellia Hills – Lakeview Bedroom, All Inclusive
Day 6 – Highland Hikes & Tea-Estate Life
Join a guided walk through tea gardens and villages, or paddle on the reservoir (conditions permitting). Return to the bungalow for convivial dining and sunset views across the valley.
Overnight: Camellia Hills – Lakeview Bedroom, All Inclusive
Day 7 – 8
Day 7 – South to Galle Fort
Descend to the coast and check in at Fort Bazaar, set within the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort. Explore cobbled streets, galleries and ramparts on a guided heritage walk.
Overnight: Fort Bazaar – Bazaar Bedroom, Bed & Breakfast
Day 8 – Departure from Colombo
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your flight back to London.
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.
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