Sri Lanka Highlights & Beach Retreat
Temples, Traditions & Coastal Bliss
9 Night / 10 Day Itinerary
Discover the timeless charm of Sri Lanka, the “Pearl of the Indian Ocean,” a land of ancient kingdoms, sacred traditions and breathtaking natural beauty. This immersive journey begins in the Cultural Triangle, where soaring rock fortresses, centuries-old temples and living village traditions bring the island’s history to life.
Along the way, you’ll encounter remarkable wildlife, from elephants gathering around ancient reservoirs to vibrant birdlife hidden within lush forests.
After days filled with exploration and cultural encounters, retreat to the golden sands of Bentota, where six nights of coastal tranquillity invite you to unwind by the sea.
This 9 Night / 10 Day itinerary includes:
- 3 nights in Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room, Half Board, Cultural Triangle
- 6 nights in Thaala Bentota Resort – Deluxe Sea View Room, Bed & Breakfast, Bentota
- Private chauffeur-guide throughout Cultural Triangle stay
- Experiences: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Minneriya safari, Hiriwadunna Village, Polonnaruwa tour
- Return economy flights from London
Prices from £2,300pp
Day 1 – 2
Day 1 – Arrival in Colombo & Transfer to Habarana
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport where you’ll be greeted with a traditional “Ayubowan.” Transfer to your hotel in the Cultural Triangle. Settle in and relax.
Overnight: Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room, Half Board
Day 2 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Minneriya National Park Safari
Climb the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an astonishing 5th-century citadel famed for its frescoes and panoramic views. In the afternoon, enjoy a private jeep safari in Minneriya or nearby parks, where elephants gather around the ancient reservoir.
Overnight: Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room, Half Board
Day 3 – 4
Day 3 – Hiriwadunna Village Experience & Polonnaruwa
Discover authentic rural life with a guided village tour by tractor, tuk-tuk and canoe. Join a local cooking demonstration before enjoying a traditional lunch. Later, explore the medieval city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with ancient palaces, shrines and remarkable rock-cut Buddhas.
Overnight: Habarana Village by Cinnamon – Superior Room, Half Board
Day 4 – Transfer to Bentota Beach
After breakfast, transfer south to Bentota for your beach retreat. The afternoon is free to relax by the ocean.
Overnight: Thaala Bentota Resort – Deluxe Sea View Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 5 – 10
Days 5–9 – Beach Relaxation in Bentota
Spend six leisurely days at Bentota, where palm-fringed beaches and calm waters invite you to unwind. Relax at the resort, swim in the Indian Ocean, or simply soak up the coastal atmosphere.
Overnight: Thaala Bentota Resort – Deluxe Sea View Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 10 – Departure from Colombo
Transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for your onward flight.
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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