Secrets of Sri Lanka
DURATION: 14 Days
START/END: Colombo
START DATE: 26 February 2025
TOUR COST (Twin Share): USD 2995
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: USD 835
MAX GROUP SIZE: 14
PHYSICAL LEVEL: Moderate
*2025 prices are provisional
A Treasure Island Revealed
Sri Lanka is known as the ‘Pearl of the Indian Ocean’. An island of emerald landscapes and vibrant cultures, coloured by history and brimming with ancient ruins, sacred temples, and colonial fortresses.
Embark on this Byroads journey and immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan heritage. Be captivated by the lush tea gardens of the hill country, the golden beaches of the coast and the exotic wildlife in its excellent national parks. Experience the warmth of local hospitality, savour the unique flavours of Sri Lankan cuisine, and be enchanted by the island’s natural beauty and cultural richness – every step is an adventure in wonder.
You’ll be in good company the entire trip. Local guides with a wealth of knowledge will deepen your adventure. Your Byroads host will support you throughout the trip. And a small bunch of fellow wanderers will create meaningful memories alongside you.
Moments you’ll love
- Admiring the view from the top of Sigiriya’s rock fortress
- Discovering the ancient city of Polonnaruwa
- Experiencing famous Sri Lankan hospitality
- Delving into the world of tea
- Buckling in for a jeep safari at Uda Walawe
- Learning to cook delicious Sri Lankan fare
- Boating along the Madu River
- Connecting to nature and indulging your senses on a South Coast Retreat
Lodgings you’ll adore
- A stunning resort set on a tea estate in Ella amid a lush landscape with panoramic views.
- Eco-friendly hotel set amongst beautifully manicured gardens next to the Udawalawe National Park.
- Picturesque resort hotel nestled amongst the golden beaches of Sri Lanka’s deep south.
- A landmark Dutch colonial building in Galle, built in 1735 and preserved to its former glory.
DAY 1: COLOMBO
Arrive at Colombo Airport and transfer to your hotel | Settle in and meet up with your group in the evening.
Raddison Colombo Hotel (or similar) – A retreat in the heart of Colombo, the hotel masterfully combines contemporary design with luxurious hospitality. It features sea views, a rooftop pool, bars and restaurants.
DAY 2: COLOMBO
Start the day with a visit to the excellent National Museum | Enjoy a guided tour through the city’s old colonial quarters | Take the afternoon at leisure to explore the historic old town known as ‘Fort’. (B)
Raddison Colombo Hotel (or similar)
DAY 3: DAMBULLA
Drive north-east to the rock temples of Dambulla | Explore the Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site | Marvel at the intricate murals, the Buddha statues and the history of the caves which dates back to 1st century BC | Check-in to your hotel for your two-night stay. (B)
Rangirir Dambulla Resort – (or similar)
DAY 4: POLONNARUWA- DAMBULLA
After breakfast travel to Polonnaruwa | Traverse the extensive ruins, one of the great sites in Sri Lanka | En route back to Dambulla stop off at a local woodcarving workshop and see local artisans at work. (B)
Rangirir Dambulla Resort (or similar)
DAY 5: SIGIRIYA – KNUCKLES RANGE - KANDY
Head to Sigiriya, the ‘Lion Rock’ and climb to summit its massive rock fortress| Take the slow drive through the beautiful Knuckles Range and enjoy a picnic along the way | Call in and be guided over a fascinating spice plantation | Arrive to Kandy. (B)
Suisee Hotel (or similar)
DAY 6: KANDY
Be guided through the city, known as the last capital of the ancient kings’ era of Sri Lanka- and now a listed UNESCO site | See the Temple of the Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred places of worship in the Buddhist world | Stroll through the beautiful Botanical Gardens | Investigate a gem factory. (B)
Suisse Hotel (or similar)
DAY 7: NUWARA ELIYA - ELLA
Delve into the world of tea at the excellent Tea Museum | Take to the hills of Nuwara Eliya, once known as ‘Little England’ | Enjoy lunch at the Hill Club, a relic of the British ‘Raj’ |Observe the works of a busy tea plantation | Drive through mist-covered hills to Ella. (B)
98 Acres Resort (or similar) – This 4.5 star resort features the luxurious comforts of a boutique hotel and is set on a tea estate with stunning panoramic views. It is within a 15-minute walk of Little Adam’s Peak and Nine Arches Bridge.
DAY 8: ELLA
Gaze at Ella Gap, the view from your hotel | Walk to the summit of ‘Little Adam’s Peak’ | Purchase supplies at the local market and enjoy a morning cooking class | The afternoon is at leisure to wander or just relax and sip tea. (BL)
98 Acres Resort (or similar)
DAY 9: BUDURUWAGALA – UDA WALAWE NATIONAL PARK
Descend into the plains and discover the massive stone-carved Buddha of Buduruwagala | Check-in to Uda Walawe and enjoy lunch | Buckle in for an afternoon jeep safari and spy elephant, deer, water buffalo and wild boar | Visit the Elephant Transit Home, a refuge for orphaned baby elephants. (B)
Kalu’s Hideaway Resort (or similar) – Eco-friendly resort nestled along 5 acres of beautifully manicured gardens and surrounded by shrubs and forest. The hotel offers wonderful accommodation for visitors to Uda Walawa National Park.
DAY 10: SOUTH COAST RETREAT
Leaving Uda Walawe, travel to the elegant hide-away on Sri Lanka’s stunning south coast | The afternoon is a leisure to enjoy the white-sand beach, swim, relax or experience an Ayurvedic massage. (B)
Sooriya Resort (or similar) – A beautiful tropical hideaway within the Rekawa Sanctuary, a place of natural beauty. The unpolluted beaches, modern, tastefully designed amenities provide an oasis of tranquility at Rekawa Beach, Tangalle.
DAY 11: GALLE
Arrive this afternoon to charming Galle, situated by the Indian Ocean | Take a guided walking tour and visit the town’s principal sights | Explore the well-preserved Dutch fort, a UNESCO site, and the largest remaining fortress in Asia built by European occupiers. (B)
Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (or similar) – A colonial mansion built in 1735 for the Dutch governor. Standing on a six-acre coconut estate, the hotel presents an opportunity to relish in the quietness of its extensive gardens and lotus pond.
DAY 12: GALLE
A day at leisure to enjoy the delights of the Galle and its stunning coastal surrounds | Options to spend time at the National Maritime Museum, walk to- and admire the views from the Galle Lighthouse, relax at renowned Unawatuna Beach or enjoy some of the town’s many fine restaurants and cafes. (B)
Nooit Gedacht Heritage Hotel (or similar)
DAY 13: COLOMBO
Begin the day with a leisurely breakfast before travelling on to Colombo | En route visit the informative Mask Museum at Ambalangoda | At Balapitiya take a boat trip along the Madu River | Arrive to Colombo late afternoon and enjoy a final night in the city. (B)
Raddison Colombo Hotel (or similar)
DAY 14: COLOMBO
Breakfast concludes your tour | Taxis to the airport are available, or Byroads can organise a transfer on request. (B)
What’s Included
GUIDES
Byroads tour host, national and local guides
TRANSPORT
Arrival transfer, private bus, boat, jeep
ACCOMMODATION
13 nights accommodation (3-4 star hotel average)
MEALS
13 breakfasts, 1 lunch
TICKETS
Entrance fees to indicated sites
Due to currency volatility, trip fees are calculated in USD. However, you will be charged in Australian dollars. Currency conversion is based on the Westpac Bank buying rate on your balance due date.
Meet your trip host
Ready for travel without logistical nightmares? Your trip host has got you covered.
Every Byroads tour is supported by Steve or Bronny – two experienced travellers with a genuine passion for people. They take care of all the nitty-gritty details to ensure your trip runs smoothly – and you can focus on enjoying the moment.
Steve heads up Byroads and has over 35 years of experience in the travel industry. He’s designed and operated holidays to some of the world’s most fascinating destinations.
Like her brother, Bronny shares a keen curiosity about the world. Independently, she has journeyed far and wide – and has worked as a tour leader throughout Europe, Asia and Australia.
