SRI LANKA: Boutique Cultural Tour – 10 days

Destination:  SRI LANKA: Negombo | Sigiriya | Kandy | Nuwara Eilya | Galle | Colombo

Tour Commences In:  Negombo

Tour Concludes in:  Colombo

Number of Days:  10 days / 9nights

Tour Style:  Small Group Tour (2 -12 Guests)

Accommodation:  Hand picked Boutique Hotels

Meals:  Breakfasts; 14: Lunches; : Dinners; 4:

Leaders: Professional Guide

Transportation:  Private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles

Tour Grading:  Moderate: Suitable for travellers with an above average level of fitness and mobility

·    Discover the captivating beauty, culture and tradition of Sri Lanka

·     Stroll the colourful Negombo's Fish Market

·     Enjoy an exciting jeep safari at the Minneriya National Park Safari in search fascinating wildlife

·     Explore the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an ancient fortress

·     Discover the magnificent archaeological remains of Sri Lanka's Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, a medieval capital

·     Admire this extraordinary Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

·     Visit one of the world's most revered Buddhist pilgrimage sites, home of the Sacred Tooth Relic

·     Enjoy an evening of a colourful traditional Kandyan Cultural Performance

·     Journey through spectacular mountain scenery of emerald-green tea plantations and sample brewed Ceylon tea

·     Discover this charming hill station, Nuwara Eliya with its cool climate, colonial architecture and beautiful gardens

·     Enjoy one of the world's most scenic railway journeys, through tea plantations and lush valleys towards Ella

·     Discover the famous railway bridge and optional walk to Little Adam's Peak

·     Wander through the cobblestone streets of this UNESCO World Heritage Site of the historical Galle Fort

·     Experience Sri Lanka's vibrant capital on our Colombo City Discovery, bustling Pettah markets and more

This is a wonderful journey of contrasts, combining ancient kingdoms, fascinating Buddhist heritage, incredible wildlife, scenic railways, traditional tea country and charming colonial coastal towns, all offering an unforgettable introduction to the beautiful island of Sri Lanka.

Day 1:    Tuesday::    Arrive Negambo Sri Lanka:   (D)
“Ayubowan!”  Welcome to Sri Lanka. You will be met by your private guide at Bandaranaike International Airport and transferred to your hotel.
This afternoon, meet your local guide and set out to discover the sights, stories and vibrant atmosphere of Negombo, a charming coastal town with a fascinating blend of Sri Lankan, Dutch and Portuguese influences.
Begin with a visit to the famous Negombo Fish Market, one of the largest and liveliest fish markets in Sri Lanka. Watch as local fishermen bring in their daily catch and see the colourful displays of freshly caught fish, prawns, crabs and lobster. Experience the hustle and bustle of this traditional marketplace, where fishing remains an important part of everyday life and the local economy.
Continue to Negombo's historic quarter, where reminders of its colonial past can be found in its churches, architecture and canals. Visit the impressive St Mary's Church, renowned for its beautiful interior and religious artwork, and discover the town's connections to the Portuguese and Dutch colonial periods.
Take a leisurely drive along the picturesque coastline, passing traditional fishing boats and the famous outrigger canoes known as oruvas. You will also have an opportunity to explore some of the local streets, observe everyday life and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of this seaside community.
Conclude your tour with a little time to soak up the coastal ambience before returning to your hotel. An enjoyable introduction to Negombo, offering a glimpse into its fishing traditions, colonial heritage and colourful local culture.
You may wish to arrive a day earlier to shop or maybe just to get your bearings and recover from any jet lag you may have. If you do choose to arrive early, we can extend your hotel bookings and provide any information or advice you may need in order to make the most of your time and get yourself familiar with this exciting city.

Day 2:   Wednesday:    Negambo – Dambulla – Minneriya – Dambulla:    (B)
After breakfast, depart at approximately 8:00 am for the scenic journey inland to Dambulla, travelling through Sri Lanka’s changing landscapes and rural countryside. The drive will take approximately 3½ hours.
On arrival, check in to our hotel and enjoy some time to relax and unwind before this afternoon’s wildlife adventure.
At approximately 1:30 pm, we head to Minneriya National Park, around a 40-minute drive from the hotel, for an exciting jeep safari. Covering approximately 8,889 hectares, Minneriya is renowned for its remarkable elephant population. One of the highlights is the opportunity to observe large herds of wild elephants, sometimes numbering between 100 and 150, gathering around the lake and its surrounding grasslands. This is a wonderful opportunity to experience Sri Lanka’s wildlife in its natural habitat. Keep watch for other wildlife, including wild buffalo, spotted deer, wild boar, sambhar, sloth bears, crocodiles and, if we are fortunate, the elusive leopard. The park is also home to an abundance of birdlife, reptiles, amphibians and butterflies.
Following our safari, return to the hotel in Dambulla, where the remainder of the day is yours to relax and enjoy at leisure.

Day 3:   Thursday:    Dambulla – Sigiriya – Dambulla – Polonnaruwa – Dambulla:     (B)
An early start this morning, with breakfast before departing at approximately 7:00 am for one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks, the magnificent Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
Rising dramatically above the surrounding jungle, Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, often referred to as the Fortress in the Sky. Built during the reign of King Kashyapa (477–495 AD), this extraordinary ancient stronghold served as a royal palace and defensive fortress.
The climb to the summit is an unforgettable experience, revealing fascinating archaeological treasures along the way. Discover the beautifully landscaped Water Gardens, the famous ancient frescoes, the Mirror Wall and the impressive Lion Gate, before reaching the summit. Those who make the climb are rewarded with spectacular panoramic views across the surrounding countryside and jungle.
Following our visit, we continue to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, with a stop along the way for a traditional Sri Lankan lunch at Priyamali Gedara.  The journey takes approximately 1½ hours.
Polonnaruwa, founded in the 11th century, was once the thriving second capital of ancient Sri Lanka after Anuradhapura. Its most prosperous period came during the 12th century under the reign of King Parakramabahu I, when the kingdom flourished through trade, agriculture and remarkable architectural achievements.
Explore the fascinating remains of this once-great kingdom, discovering its ancient temples, royal buildings and impressive archaeological monuments, which offer a glimpse into Sri Lanka’s rich cultural heritage.
After a day filled with history, culture and discovery, return to our hotel in Dambulla to relax and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure, making the most of the hotel’s facilities.

Day 4:    Friday:    Dambulla – Kandy:     (B)
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before departing at approximately 9:00 am for Kandy, travelling through the beautiful Sri Lankan countryside. Along the way, we visit the remarkable Dambulla Cave Temple, one of Sri Lanka’s most treasured cultural and religious landmarks.
Part of Sri Lanka’s famous Cultural Triangle, Dambulla Cave Temple is dramatically set within an enormous rocky outcrop, rising more than 160 metres above the surrounding landscape. Also known as the Golden Temple, this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site dates back to the 3rd century BC and is recognised as the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka.
Explore its fascinating collection of five cave shrines, adorned with magnificent Buddhist murals, colourful ceiling paintings and hundreds of Buddha statues. The intricate artwork and peaceful atmosphere provide a wonderful insight into Sri Lanka’s ancient Buddhist traditions and spiritual heritage.
Following our visit, continue the journey to Kandy, approximately 2½ hours from Dambulla. On arrival, check in to our hotel and enjoy some time to relax before our evening sightseeing.
At approximately 5:00 pm, we visit the sacred Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa), one of the most important Buddhist pilgrimage sites in the world.
Located in the heart of Kandy, this magnificent temple is believed to house a sacred relic of the Buddha. Admire its beautiful traditional architecture, distinctive octagonal structure and golden roof, while discovering the fascinating history and religious significance of this revered site. Although the sacred tooth itself is not visible, the ornate golden casket in which it is enshrined is presented during the daily worship ceremonies.
To complete our evening, enjoy a lively Sri Lankan Cultural Dance Performance, featuring traditional Kandyan dancing, colourful costumes, rhythmic drumming and captivating cultural traditions.
After an enriching day of discovery, return to our hotel in Kandy and enjoy the remainder of the evening at leisure.

Day 5:   Saturday 6th March 2027:    Kandy – Nuwara Eliya:    (B)
After breakfast, depart Kandy at approximately 9:00 am for the scenic journey to Nuwara Eliya, often affectionately known as Little England.
As we travel through Sri Lanka’s beautiful hill country, enjoy spectacular views of rolling green hills, mist-covered mountains and endless carpets of tea plantations. Along the way, we visit a traditional tea plantation and factory, where we discover the fascinating art of producing world-famous Ceylon tea. Learn about the journey from freshly picked tea leaves to the finished product, including the traditional processes of withering, rolling, drying and grading. Of course, there will be an opportunity to sample a freshly brewed cup of Ceylon tea.
On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, enjoy a city tour exploring this charming hill station, renowned for its cool climate, picturesque setting and distinctive British colonial heritage.
Admire the elegant colonial-era buildings, beautifully maintained gardens and quaint streets that reflect the town's fascinating past. With its English-style architecture, traditional atmosphere and surrounding tea-covered hills, Nuwara Eliya offers a delightful contrast to the tropical lowlands of Sri Lanka.
Enjoy discovering this unique mountain town before settling in and experiencing the charm of Sri Lanka's beautiful hill country.

Day 6:    Sunday:    Nuwara Eliya – Ella:   (B)
After breakfast, we depart at 8:00 am and transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station to board a wonderfully scenic train journey to Ella. Often regarded as one of the most beautiful railway journeys in the world, the route winds through Sri Lanka’s spectacular hill country, passing emerald-green tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, lush valleys and charming rural villages. Sit back, relax and enjoy the breathtaking scenery along the way.
On arrival in Ella, we meet our chauffeur-guide and set out to explore this delightful mountain town, renowned for its relaxed atmosphere and spectacular landscapes. Highlights include the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, an impressive architectural landmark nestled among lush tea plantations, and Little Adam’s Peak, where those who wish to take the walk are rewarded with magnificent panoramic views across the surrounding hills and valleys.

Day 7:    Monday:    Ella – Galle:    (B)
After breakfast, we farewell the beautiful hill country and travel towards the historic coastal city of Galle.
On arrival, explore the fascinating Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site of Galle, rich in history and colonial charm. Wander along its atmospheric cobblestone streets, admire the beautifully preserved Dutch and British architecture, and discover its delightful boutique shops, galleries, cafés and hidden corners.

Day 8:   Tuesday :    Galle – Colombo:    (B)
Later this morning, depart hotel and drive to Colombo. Upon arrival, check in to your hotel and take time to settle in and relax. Enjoy the hotel’s facilities and soak up the beautiful coastal setting, with its sweeping ocean views. The remainder of the day is at leisure, providing a wonderful opportunity to unwind and enjoy your surroundings.

Day 9:   Wednesday:    Colombo:    (B/D)
This morning after breakfast, discover the fascinating contrasts of Colombo on a guided city tour, exploring its vibrant commercial districts, historic landmarks and leafy residential neighbourhoods.
Drive through the elegant, tree-lined streets of Cinnamon Gardens before continuing to the bustling Fort district, once the centre of British colonial administration and military headquarters. Experience the lively atmosphere of Pettah Bazaar, with its colourful markets and trading streets, including Sea Street, traditionally known as the Goldsmiths’ Quarter.
Along the way, visit a beautifully decorated Hindu temple, renowned for its intricate stone carvings, and the historic Dutch Church of Wolvendaal, dating back to 1749.
A highlight of the tour is a visit to the impressive Lotus Tower, where you can enjoy mesmerising panoramic views across Colombo and its coastline. If time permits, we will also take in the striking replica of the Avukana Buddha and Independence Square, an important symbol of Sri Lanka’s independence.
Following our city exploration, return to the hotel.
This evening we have our finale dinner at one of the 50 best restaurants in the World. WOW.

Day 10:    Thursday:    Depart Colombo:     (B)
Our small group tour concludes after breakfast and for most guests today it is time to say farewell to acquaintances, new-found friends and Sri Lanka.

At your leisure before transferring to the airport for your onward or homebound journey.

 Depending on your departure itinerary, you may have time for some last-minute sightseeing and shopping. We are able to organise our private guide to accompany you.

Some guests may wish to stay another day or more in this amazing city; please don’t hesitate to contact Boutique Tours & Travel for further travel arrangements.

Our itineraries are carefully planned to ensure you are rewarded with the best experiences in Sri Lanka.  The magic of travelling in a small group allows us to cater for spontaneity and it is sometimes these unplanned moments that can be the most memorable and together with the rich tapestry of experiences and the characters we meet along the way that make this a very special tour.

Please contact us as soon as possible to ensure your place on this boutique small group tour.

Flexibility
The itinerary can be flexible, sometimes due to weather or on-going events which guests may want to see. If there is something else you’d like to do or see on your trip please contact us and we’ll try our best to ensure it can be done.

•       A specially curated itinerary for Boutique Tours & Travel

•       A small group tour (2 - 12 guests)

•       Private International & Domestic airport arrival and departure transfers for all guests

•       Hand selected 5, 4 & 3 Star Modern & Boutique Hotels (or a mix)

•       WIFI Internet access where possible

•       Meals as indicated in Itinerary; B = Breakfast: L=Lunch: D=Dinner: SD=Special Dinner

•       Private chauffeur driven air-conditioned vehicles for all our transportation.

•       Services of one or more Professional bilingual tour guides

•       Concierge / Bellhop services through out tour

•       Some gratuities to guides & drivers and hotel staff

•       Train ride and entrance fees to all activities, tours, excursions and shows as per the itinerary

•       An exclusive BT&T  Information Travel App

•       Bottled water during overland transportation

Not included:

•       International air or train fares

•       Arrival / Departure Taxes, levies and other charges

•       Domestic Flights - economy class: Udaipur – Mumbai / Delhi

(with price and availability for upgrade available on request)

•       Passport & Visa Fees

•       Personal Travel Insurance

•       Some gratuities to guides & drivers and hotel staff

•       Additional local guides

•       Excess baggage charges

•       Cost of any ’Luggage Delivery’ via FedEx or postal services

•       Personal expenses

•       Alcoholic & Soft Drink Beverages