The Best of Sri Lanka: Culture, Wildlife & Coast
This carefully curated journey takes you through Sri Lanka’s most enchanting landscapes and experiences, staying at the country’s finest properties. From the ancient wonders of the Cultural Triangle to the serene tea plantations of the Hill Country, the wildlife of Yala, and the pristine beaches of Weligama, this itinerary promises an unforgettable blend of adventure, culture, and indulgence.
Journey highlights
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The ultimate Sri Lankan adventure, staying at the best hotels and traveling in style between them
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Set off by bike around Anuradhapura, one of the islands ancient capitals and awe at the ruins of ancient civilisations
- Ultimate itinerary:A harmonious blend of authenticity and superlative luxury, our Ultimate Journeys are designed for the discerning traveller, providing unparalleled insider access and exclusive luxury private experiences
Our tailor made journeys include:
- Your dedicated Travel Consultant who will take care of arrangements
- Private international airport transfers in destination
- Your own private, English-speaking local guides
- Unique experiences, hand-picked by our Journeys team
- Entrance to must-see local sites
- Dedicated 24/7 team providing in-country support and guidance
- Complimentary access to My Scott Dunn – industry-leading travel app providing pre-departure information and in-journey support
When to visit
- J
- F
- M
- A
- M
- J
- J
- A
- S
- O
- N
- D
The driest seasons are from December to March for the west & south and the Hill Country & from April to September for the ancient cities region. There is also an inter-monsoonal period in October and November when rain can occur in many parts of the island. The weather doesn’t follow strict rules, though – it often seems to be raining where it should be sunny & sunny where it should be raining.
July/August is the time of the Kandy Esala Perahera, as well as Kataragama festival in the South.
Itinerary
Fly to Colombo
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At a Glance
Starting off the trip, you’ll have one night to relax and rest at The Wallawwa. This is a beautiful property and a lovely retreat to rest after your international flight, making sure that you are totally ready for the adventure ahead!
Where to stay
The Wallawwa (1 night)
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At a Glance
From here you’ll be whisked away to the Cultural Triangle with your private guide and chauffeur, where you will be spending your next three nights at Ulagalla, from which you can discover the fantastic ancient ruins of Sri Lanka’s first kingdoms. This is a spectacular part of the country and during your time here, we have included a private cycling trip through the UNESCO heritage site of Anuradhapura which is a brilliant way to explore this expansive area. Of course, no trip to the Cultural Triangle would be complete without a visit to Sigiriya Rock and we have included an early morning excursion for you, the best time to climb the rock while it is still cool and the light is beautiful.
Where to stay
Uga Ulagalla (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Then, travel down to Kandy where you’ll be staying the next two nights at the charming Kandy House, featuring some of the best food to be found in the country. From the Kandy House, again with your private guide, venture out to visit the Temple of the Tooth, the Botanical Gardens and the Commonwealth War memorial – all major historical sites in Sri Lanka’s repertoire.
Where to stay
Adigar's Manor (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Moving on you'll travel by train to the beautiful Hill Country and the famous Ceylon Tea Trails, where you can relax in colonial splendour, discover the history of the country's greatest export and trek through the lush plantations. The next three nights gives you a wonderful opportunity to relax on the itinerary and do as little or as much as you like. A highlight is walking around enjoying the verdant undulating countryside and watching the talented pickers at work before reclining in style while enjoying a traditional tea planters picnic lunch.
Where to stay
Ceylon Tea Trails (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
Next, catch a flight south to Yala National Park, known for its high population of leopard. Spend your days out on safari drives, and in the evenings relax with dinner and drinks under the stars. For those who have a penchant for Sri Lankan food why not role up your sleeves and enjoy a cooking class at the camp and take the recipes home with you.
Where to stay
Uga Chena Huts (2 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
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At a Glance
After all this action drive down to Weligama on the south coast where you will stay at Cape Weligama, the third Relais Chateaux on this epic itinerary. Though each of the three hotels has its own charm and style it is the continuity of exceptionally high service and flawless design that make them some of the best in the country. Here you’ll have three beautiful nights to end your unforgettable adventure, this luxurious retreat perched on the promontory with panoramic views out to the Indian Ocean is where you can relax and unwind, enjoying sumptuous spa treatments and world class cuisine.
For a truly unique addition to your stay, why not take to the skies for an unforgettable aerial whale-watching experience? Observe blue whales and sperm whales in their natural habitat from the air. While sightings cannot be guaranteed, this thrilling flight offers a faster and less disruptive way to see these magnificent creatures, along with breathtaking views of Sri Lanka’s rugged southern coastline.
Where to stay
Cape Weligama (3 nights)
Alternative Places to Stay Nearby
Fly home from Colombo
Price Guide: (per person based on double occupancy and excludes international flights)
| Departing |
Price from*
|
Deposit from * | Enquire |
|---|---|---|---|
| March 2026 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
| April 2026 | $12,700 | $3,200 | plan your trip |
| May 2026 | $10,200 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| June 2026 | $10,200 | $2,600 | plan your trip |
| July 2026 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
| August 2026 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
| September 2026 | $12,700 | $3,200 | plan your trip |
| October 2026 | $12,700 | $3,200 | plan your trip |
| November 2026 | $12,700 | $3,200 | plan your trip |
| December 2026 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
| January 2027 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
| February 2027 | $15,100 | $3,800 | plan your trip |
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March 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
-
April 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$12,700
Deposit from*$3,200
-
May 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,200
Deposit from*$2,600
-
June 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$10,200
Deposit from*$2,600
-
July 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
-
August 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
-
September 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$12,700
Deposit from*$3,200
-
October 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$12,700
Deposit from*$3,200
-
November 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$12,700
Deposit from*$3,200
-
December 2026
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
-
January 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
-
February 2027
Price from *
- Pricing is a guideline only, is based on two people sharing and excludes special offers.
- Travel over peak periods (e.g. Christmas, New Year, festivals and other public vacations) can affect prices considerably, as can exchange rates, flight class and room type.
- Solo traveler pricing is available upon request.
$15,100
Deposit from*$3,800
- plan your trip
Experiences in this tour
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![Explore Galle Fort - Sri Lanka]()
View ExperienceExplore Galle Fort
While staying in the Galle Fort take the time to discover this fascinating colonial town, filled with history. Founded in 1588 by the Portuguese, the fort was subsequently occupied by the Dutch and the British, so there is plenty to explore.
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![Anuradhapura - Anuradhapura Ancient City]()
View ExperienceAnuradhapura Ancient City
Anuradhapura dates from the sixth century BC and is one of Buddhism's holiest sites, containing the 2,200 year old Sri Maha Bodhi tree, grown from a cutting of the Indian tree beneath which Buddha found Enlightenment.
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![Polonnaruwa - Sri Lanka]()
View ExperiencePolonnaruwa Ancient City
The ancient city of Polonnaruwa dates from the 10th century AD. Originally planned as an expression and statement of imperial power, the city was eventually abandoned in 1288. Many of the remains are still in excellent condition.
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![Dambulla Buddhist Caves - Sri Lanka]()
View ExperienceDambulla Buddhist Caves
Dambulla is an ancient historical site set on a large granite outcrop. The caves at Dambulla are famous for their temples and have been repainted several times in the 11th, 12th and 18th centuries with secular and Buddhist scenes.
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![Meet Local People - Explore the Kapu Ela River & Rural Galle]()
View ExperienceExplore the Kapu Ela River by boat & Cycle through Rural Galle
Enjoy a scenic and immersive tour through the beautiful countryside surrounding Galle. Your journey will take you down the Kapu Ela River by boat and then by bike across the paddies, ending with a traditional Sri Lankan meal and a lesson in hopper making.
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![Kandy Royal Botanical Gardens]()
View ExperienceKandy Royal Botanical Gardens
The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, Kandy, is renowned for its wide variety of plant species
and beautiful flowers. Of particular note is the collection of a variety of orchids.
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![Sigiriya Rock - Sri Lanka]()
View ExperienceSigiriya Rock
The Sigiriya rock rises majestically from the jungle floor. It is famous for its ‘mirror wall’, so called because of its highly polished surface. Half-way up there are galleries with frescoes in brilliant tempera. Sigirya dates from the 5th century AD.
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![Visit a Cinnamon Plantation - Sri Lanka]()
View ExperienceVisit a Cinnamon Plantation
Led by a local couple, enjoy a serene boat ride to the plantation on Cinnamon Island. During this unforgettable experience, you will experience the aromatic world of cinnamon craftsmanship and local traditions.
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![Temple of the Tooth]()
View ExperienceTemple of the Tooth
This evening you will visit The Temple of the Tooth. The stunning 17th-century Temple of the Tooth (Sri Dalada Maligawa) is believed to house the left upper canine tooth of the Lord Buddha himself.
We design each itinerary around you, so this suggested itineraryis a starting point that we can tweak or transform into something completely personalized to you. Call us on 858 345 1762 to start planning your vacation.
