- TOUR HIGHLIGHTS:
A 14-night journey blending Sri Lanka’s cultural and natural wonders with the Maldives' serene luxury, offering unforgettable experiences in history, wildlife, and relaxation.
Itinerary
Day 1: Depart from United Kingdom
Highlights: Begin your adventure to South Asia, leaving the bustling city behind for a journey of cultural richness and tropical serenity.
Accommodation: Onboard flight.
Meal Plan: Meals on board.
Day 2: Arrival in Colombo – Transfer to Negombo
Highlights : Arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, leisure in Negombo, a coastal town known for its beaches and colonial charm.
Meet on arrival at Bandaranayke International Airport by our Representative and transfer to Negombo – Check in at Hotel – Rest of the day at leisure.
Time & Distance : 30 minutes (12 km) from Bandaranaike International Airport to Negombo.
Accommodation: Jetwing Sea, Negombo.
Meal Plan: Dinner & Breakfast.
Detailed Description: Upon arrival, meet your local representative and transfer to Negombo. Known as Sri Lanka's “Little Rome,” the town offers a relaxing start with sandy beaches, Dutch-era canals, and vibrant fish markets. Spend your evening unwinding at the hotel, soaking in the ocean breeze.
Day 3: Elephants and Temples – Negombo to Habarana
Highlights: Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, Dambulla Cave Temple.
Time & Distance: Approx. 4.5 hours (185 km).
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: Travel to Habarana, stopping at Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Witness elephants feeding and bathing in the nearby river. Continue to the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient murals and over 150 Buddha statues. Marvel at the largest Buddha statue carved into the rock before heading to Habarana for a peaceful evening.
Day 4: Iconic Heritage and Village Life – Habarana
Highlights: Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Village Experience, Polonnaruwa Ancient City.
Time & Distance: Approx. 2 hours of combined travel.
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lodge, Habarana.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: Begin with an early morning climb of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient marvel Offering stunning panoramic views and remarkable frescoes. Immerse yourself in traditional village life with a canoe ride across a serene lake, a visit to a local farm, and a traditional Sri Lankan cooking demonstration. End the day exploring Polonnaruwa’s well-preserved ruins, including Buddha statues and the Royal Palace.
Day 5: Scenic Spice Trails – Habarana to Kandy
Highlights: Spice Garden, Temple of the Tooth Relic.
Time & Distance: Approx. 3 hours (95 km).
Accommodation: Golden Crown, Kandy.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: Travel to Kandy, stopping en route to explore a spice garden in Matale. Learn about Sri Lanka’s aromatic spices and their traditional uses. In Kandy, visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, home to an impressive collection of flora. Conclude with an evening visit to the revered Temple of the Tooth Relic and a captivating cultural dance show.
Day 6: Picturesque Train Ride – Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
Highlights: Scenic train ride, tea plantation, Nuwara Eliya sightseeing.
Time & Distance: Train journey (4 - 4.5 hours) + local transfer (30 minutes).
Accommodation: Grand Hotel, Nuwara Eliya.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: Embark on a scenic train journey through lush hills and tea plantations. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, visit a tea plantation to learn about Ceylon tea production and enjoy a tasting session. Explore the colonial charm of “Little England” with its picturesque cottages and cool mountain climate.
Day 7: Into the Wild – Nuwara Eliya to Yala
Highlights: Scenic drive, Yala National Park safari.
Time & Distance: Approx. 4.5 hours (210 km).
Accommodation: Jetwing Yala, Yala.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: Drive through the scenic southern landscapes to Yala National Park. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating jeep safari to spot leopards, elephants, and exotic birds in their natural habitat. Return to your hotel for a relaxing evening.
Day 8: Coastal Heritage – Yala to Colombo via Galle
Highlights: Galle Dutch Fort, Madu River (optional), Colombo city tour.
Time & Distance: Approx. 5 hours (265 km).
Accommodation: Cinnamon Lake Side, Colombo.
Meal Plan: Breakfast, Dinner.
Detailed Description: En route to Colombo, stop at the historic Galle Dutch Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site blending colonial architecture with stunning coastal views. Optionally, enjoy a boat ride on the Madu River, surrounded by mangroves. In Colombo, discover a blend of modernity and tradition with visits to bustling markets, colonial-era buildings, and the iconic Gangaramaya Temple.
Day 9: Transition to the Maldives
Highlights: Flight to Male, speedboat transfer to resort.
Time & Distance: An hour flight + 30-minute speedboat transfer.
Accommodation: OBLU Xperience Ailafushi 4+, Maldives.
Meal Plan: All-Inclusive.
Detailed Description: Arrive in the Maldives, where turquoise waters and soft white sands await. Transfer to your luxury resort for a week of relaxation and adventure.
Days 10 –15: Blissful Maldives
Highlights: Leisure time, snorkeling, water activities, spa treatments (Optional).
Accommodation: OBLU Xperience Ailafushi 4+, Maldives*.
Meal Plan: All-Inclusive.
Detailed Description: Spend your days basking in the Maldivian sun, snorkeling amidst vibrant coral reefs, and indulging in spa treatments (Optional) . Enjoy an array of water sports or simply unwind on the pristine beaches. Each day promises tranquility and luxury.
Day 16: Farewell to Paradise
Highlights: Speedboat transfer to Male, flight to London Heathrow.
Accommodation: Onboard flight.
Meal Plan: Breakfast.
Detailed Description: Bid farewell to the Maldives, cherishing the memories of cultural treasures, wildlife adventures, and serene beaches as you head back to London.
Price Includes
- Flights: Return flight on economy class
- Transfers: Arrival and departure transfers.
- Transport: Travel in an air-conditioned car with the services of an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
- Accommodation:
- • Sri Lanka: 7 Nights accommodation with breakfast and dinner included.
- • Maldives: 7-night stay at OBLU Xperience Ailafushi 4+, Maldives*, on an all-inclusive basis in an Ocean View Room.
- Activities and Entrance Fees:
- • Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
- • Dambulla Cave Temple
- • Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- • Polonnaruwa Ancient City
- • Kandy Temple and Cultural Show
- • Yala National Park (including jeep safari)
- • Scenic train journey from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya (2nd class)
- Taxes and Charges: All applicable taxes and service charges.
- Maldives Transfers: Return speedboat transfers between Male Airport and the resort.
Price Excludes
- Entry visa fees for Sri Lanka (apply via www.eta.gov.lk).
- Travel insurance.
- Meals not indicated.
- Personal Expenses: Expenses of a personal nature (e.g., souvenirs).
- Camera and video permits at sightseeing locations.
- Tips and porterage.
Sri Lanka: Important Information
Cultural Etiquette: When visiting temples, dress modestly. Ensure Shoulders and knees are covered, and remove your shoes before entering sacred sites.
Currency: Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR). It is advisable to carry small denominations for tips and local purchases. Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger establishments.
Climate: Sri Lanka experiences a tropical climate with regional variations. The best travel months vary by region, but this itinerary is designed for year-round enjoyment.
Poya Days: Bars and clubs are closed, and liquor is not served in public areas on these Buddhist holidays. Plan accordingly.
Road Conditions: Travel times can vary due to traffic, roadwork, or weather, so build in extra time for journeys.
Health & Safety: Carry insect repellent, especially when visiting rural areas and wildlife parks. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
Sri Lanka: Travel Tips
Pack Light: Comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy shoes are a must for exploring ancient sites and nature trails.
Stay Charged: Sri Lanka uses Type D, M, or G power sockets, so carry a universal adapter.
Try Local Cuisine: Don’t miss dishes like hoppers, kottu roti, and curries. Opt for bottled or filtered water to stay safe.
Wildlife Respect: Avoid feeding or touching wild animals in parks and reserves.
Maldives: Important Information
Currency: Maldivian Rufiyaa (MVR), but US dollars are widely accepted. Most resorts operate on a cashless system, and credit cards are accepted for payments.
Marine Life Conservation: The Maldives is committed to protecting its coral reefs and marine life. Avoid touching corals and using reef-safe sunscreen.
Maldives: Travel Tips
Pack Essentials: Swimwear, light clothing, flip-flops, and a wide-brimmed hat are essentials for your beach vacation. Don’t forget waterproof bags for electronics.
Diving & Snorkeling: Take advantage of the clear waters to explore marine life. Resorts often provide gear, or you can rent high-quality equipment.
Connectivity: While resorts provide Wi-Fi, signal strength may vary. Plan for digital detox moments to fully enjoy the surroundings.
Cultural Sensitivity: While resorts cater to international guests, note that Male and local islands follow Islamic traditions. Dress modestly when visiting local islands or Male city.
IMPORTANT
Bars, Clubs or similar entertainment is prohibited during “Poya” Days. As such liquor will not be served in public areas of the hotels during this time. (Sri Lanka)
The above mentioned hotels will only be confirmed on availability at the time of booking, in such an event suitable alternatives will be suggested prior to confirmation.
Kindly note that check in time to all hotels will be at 1400hrs and check out is at 1200 noon.
All transfer times are subject to variation due to road conditions, weather & traffic.
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