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This small group tour through Sri Lanka offers plenty of iconic sightseeing and experiences, including a 2-night stay at the iconic Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya and Yala and Minneriya national park game drives. Unwind in the idyllic Maldives for 4 nights at the end of the tour.
(Pricing based on 01 & 11 May 2026 departure dates. Pricing correct as on 20 October 2025)
Highlights and Inclusions
Highlights:
Colombo –Sightseeing tour
Balapitiya – Madu River cruise
Galle – Galle Fort
Yala National Park – Guided game drives
Nuwara Eliya – Scenic Train ride
Nuwara Eliya – Tea plantation and factory visit
Kandy – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
Kandy – Traditional cultural performance
Minneriya National Park – Game drive
Sigiriya – Lion Rock visit
Sigiriya – UNESCO World Heritage Site Polonnaruwa
Maldives – Relax in the Maldives
Inclusions:
Return international airfares included
11 nights 5-star hotels in Sri Lanka including 2 nights at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
4 nights in the Maldives, staying in an overwater bungalow at the Adaaran Resort
Breakfast and dinner daily, 9 lunches, and alcoholic drinks & soft drinks during your stay at Adaaran Resort
Ride the iconic train from Nuwara Eliya to Kandy
Group airport transfers on the first and last day of the tour
Dedicated, comfortable private transportation throughout Sri Lanka
Escorted by an English-speaking leader throughout (Days 1-11)
International, economy class flights from Colombo to Malé
Incredible sightseeing including entry fees as per itinerary
Itinerary
Day 1- Home to Colombo
Hotel: The Kingsbury Hotel - Colombo or Similar
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be met by your transfer and driven to your accommodation in Colombo.
Check-in: if arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary.
Day 2 - Colombo to Galle
Hotel: Radisson Blu Resort Galle or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning after breakfast, we'll head south towards Galle, with a brief Colombo sightseeing tour on the way. Colombo offers a blend of modern western and Sri Lankan elements, we'll drive past some of the commercial capital's sites including Old Parliament, President’s House, Galle Face Green, ViharamahaDevi Park, and Independence Square.
There will be time for you to disembark the coach and visit the uniquely stunning Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (entry not included).
We will also visit the Colombo National Museum. This charming museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Sri Lankan history. Housed in a stunning neo-Baroque building, which was specifically constructed by William Henry Gregory, Governor of Ceylon, in 1877, the museum boasts a gleaming white façade. As you make your way through the various rooms, you'll encounter exhibits dedicated to each of Sri Lanka's historical kingdoms. Informational display boards provide intriguing insights, such as the meaning behind the mudras (gestures and poses) depicted in Sri Lanka's Buddha statues.
Then, in Balapitiya, we take a boat trip on the Madu River to visit 64 scattered islands, including Cinnamon Island, where we learn about cinnamon production. Sri Lanka is the world's largest producer of pure cinnamon.
Inspiring Highlights
Colombo National Museum
Madu River
Cinnamon Island
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.
Day 3 - Galle
Hotel: Radisson Blu Resort Galle or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today after breakfast, set out on a tour of the Galle Fort and its Fortifications. This is a city that exudes an essence with a perfect blend of past and present. Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, the presence of Portuguese, Dutch and English is very evident in the fascinating architectural styles of the Galle Fort.
Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure, where lunch and dinner will be at the hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Galle Fort
Day 4 - Galle to Yala National Park
Hotel: Jetwing Yala or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
In the morning after breakfast, we leave for Yala National Park.
On arrival, spend your afternoon on a guided game drive exploring the dynamic wildlife and the most luxuriant plant life in Yala National Park. Being one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka, it is the ideal place to sight the rare leopard!
Enjoy dinner at the hotel in the evening.
Day 5 - Yala National Park to Nuwara Eliya
Hotel: The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning will be an early start, where you’ll enjoy another safari in the Yala National Park by jeep to spot the diverse wildlife which calls the park home.
After, we leave Yala and make a stop in Ella to witness the beautiful sceneries from Ella Gap and the picturesque waterfalls. We continue the journey to Nuwara Eliya. Often referred to as ‘Little England’, this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era bungalows.
On arrival, check in to your Inspiring Stay for the next two nights, the incredible Grand Hotel. It may be the 21st century, but colonial splendour still reigns in all its past glory at the Grand Hotel. Built in 1891, this was the palatial residence of the former Governor of Sri Lanka, Sir Edward Barnes; today we offer the ultimate in comfort to all who seek the charms of this famed hill country landmark. The incredible Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, an enduring icon in this tranquil town perched on a mountain ridge overlooking lush green countryside in tea country. Oozing colonial charm, the hotel began life in the early 19th century as the stately holiday home of the fifth Governor of Ceylon. It’s since evolved over the centuries to retain a romantic, old-world ambience alongside modern comforts. In an enviable location, there are elegant, well-appointed rooms, magnificent gardens and an array of hotel amenities and activities including music therapy, yoga and more. The Grand Hotel is also renowned for its traditional afternoon tea, a quintessential British tradition which you’ll experience on this tour.
In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Yala National Park
Ella Gap
Nuwara Eliya & The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 6 - Nuwara Eliya
Hotel: The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you will have a leisurely morning.
In the afternoon you will visit a tea plantation and factory. Here you will enjoy an absolute tea experience, taking you from the moment young tea leaves are plucked to being processed in the factory to make a steaming cup of tea. If you are interested, the tea factory is the best place to purchase high quality tea.
This afternoon, enjoy an Inspiring Taste at probably the most talked of outlet in Nuwara Eliya, the Grand Tea Lounge. Here we enjoy an iconic High Tea at the Grand Hotel.
Dinner this evening will be enjoyed at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Grand Tea Lounge
Tea Plantation
Day 7 - Nuwara Eliya to Kandy
Hotel: Earl’s Regency - Kandy or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning after an early breakfast, depart for Kandy on a famous train journey, said to be one of the most scenic and beautiful in the world. Apart from the breathtaking sceneries of the tea country and picturesque waterfalls, it is a chance for you to mingle with local people.
Discover the rich history of Kandy, once known as Senkadagala, during its time as the Hill Capital from 1514-1815 AD. Named a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, Kandy boasts a beautiful lake, historic temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and well-preserved ruins of the royal palaces.
Enjoy some free time upon arrival in Kandy during the afternoon, before a dinner at a local restaurant with the rest of your group.
Inspiring Highlights
Kandy Train Journey
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.
Day 8 - Kandy
Hotel: Earl’s Regency - Kandy or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, explore the beautiful city of Kandy with an included Tuk Tuk and Bazaar tour, followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Relax in the afternoon with a stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake.
In the evening, enjoy a spectacular Sri Lankan Cultural Performance, followed by a visit to the revered Temple of Tooth, home to a sacred relic of the Buddha and its guardian elephants.
This evening have dinner with your group, and enjoy some relaxation time.
Inspiring Highlights
Kandy Lake
Temple of the Tooth
Day 9 - Kandy to Minneriya National Park to Sigiriya
Hotel: SigiriyaJungles or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today after a early breakfast, depart for Sigiriya.
Enroute, enjoy a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. Located in the districts of Matale and Polonnaruwa and bordered by the 'Mahaweli' and 'Amban' rivers, this park stretches an impressive 36,948 hectares. It was declared a National park in 1984, making it the only one in the Central Province. It's a paradise for nature lovers and one of the best places to observe elephants.
Continue to Sigiriya for check-in around lunch time.
This evening enjoy an Inspiring Taste with some sundowner pre-dinner Arrack (a local cocktail) or something else to suit your tastes with some canapes, followed by dinner at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Minneriya National Park
Special Information
Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours.
Day 10 - Sigiriya to Sigiriya Rock Fortress to Polonnaruwa to Sigiriya
Hotel: SigiriyaJungles or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning will be an early start, where we'll climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (also known as Lion's Rock) - an extraordinary artistic complex dating back to 477-498 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has become a global attraction due to its unique architecture.
For lunch, participate in an Inspiring Taste cooking demonstration where you'll learn to prepare Sri Lankan rice and curry (5-6 curries). Savour your meal while overlooking the beautiful gardens.
In the afternoon, we'll take a sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital city of Sri Lanka (1017-1235 AD). Polonnaruwa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 after the fall of Anuradhapura.
In the evening enjoy a cocktail and dinner at your hotel.
Inspiring Highlights
Sigiriya Rock Fortress
Polonnaruwa
Day 11 - Sigiriya to Dambulla to Sigiriya
Hotel: SigiriyaJungles or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend the morning at your leisure, then in the afternoon, explore the impressive Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This UNESCO heritage site dates back to the 3rd Century BC and boasts 157 statues and extraordinary paintings covering a vast 2100m2 area, making it the most impressive cave complex in Sri Lanka. It's truly a masterpiece worth experiencing.
Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight.
Inspiring Highlights
Golden Temple of Dambulla
Day 12 - Sigiriya to Maldives
Hotel: Adaaran Club Rannalhi or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Today you will travel from Sri Lanka to The Maldives.
Departing from Sigiriya, you will arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) in time for your included flight to Malé, The Maldives.
On arrival into Malé, you will be met and transported to your included speedboat transfer which will take you the 40 minute journey to Kaafu Atoll where you will spend the next few nights in paradise.
Experience paradise in the Maldives, a breathtaking tropical nation located in the Indian Ocean, consisting of 26 vibrant coral atolls and hundreds of picturesque islands. With its pristine beaches, crystalline lagoons and abundant coral reefs, the Maldives is a true dream destination.
Once checked in, take the time to explore the stunning tropical scenery at your own leisure.
Special Information
Today you will say goodbye to your Tour Leader in Sri Lanka, and the rest of your tour will be Independant.
Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 30kg (66lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you to ensure that your journey is trouble free.
Your All-Inclusive Maldives package includes:
Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily. Snacks & cakes are available outside main mealtimes
Tea, coffee, iced tea, cordials & water, which are availalbe from 07.30am to midnight
Drinks are served up to midnight. Extra charges apply during excursions. Meals and drinks are included until midday on the date of departure. No alcoholic drinks will be served to guests under the age of 18
Day 13 - Maldives
Hotel: Adaaran Club Rannalhi or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast while marvelling at the picturesque low-lying islands that make up the breathtaking Maldives archipelago. Each atoll here is a result of centuries of coral reef growth, surrounded by shallow lagoons protected by reef systems. The Maldives boasts idyllic islands with tropical features such as tall coconut palms, white sandy beaches, and clear lagoons. Spend your day at leisure enjoying a wide range of thrilling activities offered on the island.
Our hotel offers excellent snorkelling opportunities for those interested in exploring the shallow oases at the edge of the islands. You can also opt for exhilarating water sports activities like catamaran sailing and windsurfing, experiencing the thrill of riding the winds and speeding through the crystal waters. For a more serene experience, canoeing is also available for you to relish the natural beauty surrounding the islands. The adventurous can choose from jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving to make the most of their stay in the Maldives. The possibilities are endless, and the Maldives awaits your exploration.
Day 14 - Maldives
Hotel: Adaaran Club Rannalhi or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Starting off another day with a delightful breakfast, today promises to be another day of blissful relaxation in the Maldives. The options for activities and adventure are limitless and cater to all interests, ensuring that you will never have a dull moment during your stay.
Alternatively, bask in the tranquility of the pristine beaches and soak in the picturesque surroundings, as you indulge in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The serene atmosphere of the luxurious white sandy beach is sure to leave you rejuvenated and refreshed like never before.
Day 15 - Maldives
Hotel: Adaaran Club Rannalhi or Similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Enjoy your morning today with a scrumptious breakfast while taking in the fresh breeze as you are serenaded by the sound of the waves lapping the beach. Admire the view beyond the horizon of the Indian Ocean and prepare for another day of leisure and exciting optional activities in the Maldives.
Day 16 - Maldives to Home
Meals: Breakfast
Following breakfast this morning, you will be transferred by speed boat to Valena International Airport (MLE) in time for your departure flight.
Day 17 - Home
Arrive home today, with memories to last a lifetime.
Booking terms and conditions apply.
*
Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
