Small group Sri Lanka Holiday
Secrets of the Spice Island - 15 D / 14 N
Tour highlights
► Choose to start your day with an energising yoga session under the care of an expert, certified yoga master.
► Learn all about Sri Lanka's fascinating Buddhist history.
► Enjoy a scenic train journey through tea plantations.
► Absorb the atmosphere of quaint colonial Galle.
► Search for leopards in Yala National Park.
► Explore rural villages and rolling hills dotted with tea bushes in the Tea Country.
► Stay in the very best 5 star resorts and hotels in Sri Lanka.
This Sri Lanka Holiday Package features an all inclusive price. Accommodation, all major meals, transport, entrance fees, expert tour guide included!
Travel Style: Experiential
Service Level: 5 Star Hotels, Private Transport, All meals
Trip Type: Small Group, 10 Travellers Max
Private Touring? : Contact Us
Escorted by Expert Cultural Custodians, not mere guides.
Secrets of the Spice Island - Sri Lanka Holiday
On this extraordinary small group holiday of Sri Lanka, you'll immerse yourself into the past and present of this mesmerising Island nation and unravel it's many treasures that have enchanted travellers for centuries. You'll interact with gentle and serene islanders and understand their deep spirituality and Buddhist values. You'll explore ancient capitals that bake back over 2000 years and uncover a rich cultural heritage that is interwoven with enduring colonial influences.
You'll travel at an unhurried pace over a diverse terrain, from busy cities to picture perfect tropical beaches to lush, mist-covered mountains with rolling tea estates on this Holiday in Sri Lanka, staying in the best 5 star hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka.
This holiday of Sri Lanka is designed by award winning historians and travel professionals and is truly experiential and doesn't merely take you to sites - you will participate and be immersed in many, many true, local Sri Lankan experiences.
A highlight of the Sri Lanka Holiday is the food you'll savour whilst on the adventure. Sri Lanka is known for its healthy, fresh and very, very tasty food. The hotels on tour have also been carefully chosen that serve authentic food of the region prepared by the top chefs in Sri Lanka, all the while having western options if you miss food from home!
SO MUCH INCLUDED in the price. Not only is this Sri Lanka travel package a true once in a lifetime experience, but it's also GREAT value for money!
What is included
- Accommodation in carefully chosen and the best 5 star hotels and resorts in Sri Lanka.
- All major meals.
- Modern, air-conditioned coaches throughout.
- Services of an experienced and expert local guide and tour manager throughout.
- All entrance fees where applicable.
- Ayurveda Massage
- Pick up and drop from airport.
- All taxes
What is not included
- Travel insurance
- Flight Tickets
- Drinks
- Snacks
- Visas and any Visa related expenses
- Pick up and drop if not on arrival or departure dates / city from where tour starts and ends
- Camera fees where applicable.
- Items personal in nature
- Anything that is not explicitly mentioned in the what is included section.
Dates and Pricing
Indian Expeditions Small Group touring holidays to Sri Lanka India delivers exceptional value for money. Our group sizes are really small – with a maximum of 12 guests and no children under age 14. This affords us to pay individual attention to everyone, and lets you enjoy your vacation with like minded people who you will keep in touch with for years after the holiday. Or, take advantage of our Private Touring option and enjoy the exclusivity and flexibility of travelling with just your own group or even as a couple. Contact us for Private Touring supplements.
Book before July 30th and get 10% off!
| Dates | Availability | Price | To Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aug 12 - Aug 26, 2024 | 04 Rooms | £2649 PP | CONTACT US |
| Sep 08 - Sep 22, 2024 | 02 Rooms | £2319 PP | CONTACT US |
| Oct 06 - Oct 20, 2024 | 06 Rooms | £2319 PP | CONTACT US |
| Nov 10 - Nov 24, 2024 | 04 Rooms | £2649 PP | CONTACT US |
| Dec 22, 2024 - Jan 05, 2025 | 08 Rooms | £3199 PP | CONTACT US |
| Dates | Availability | price | To Book |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jan 05 - Jan 19, 2025 | 05 Rooms | £2929 PP | CONTACT US |
| Feb 09 - Feb 23, 2025 | 03 Rooms | £2649 PP | CONTACT US |
| Mar 02 - Mar 16, 2025 | 10 Rooms | £2649 PP | CONTACT US |
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive at any time. You’ll be picked up from the airport and dropped at your hotel.
Colombo reveals its true colours to those willing to get past the city’s modern façade and ready to dive in and explore its characterful neighbourhoods echoing Sri Lanka’s colonial past. You will adventure into the city and will unveil the true face of Colombo and allow you to experience its spirit. Start with a visit to the Slave Island, one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods. Explore its vibrant alleyways and see the locals go about their daily business – no frills or scripts, just genuine Sri Lankan life as it is. Continue to the Galle Face Green, one of the city’s favourite hangouts on the shores of the Laccadive Sea. Head to a local street food joint for a taste of delicious Kottu Rotti – a not to be missed, everyday Sri Lankan meal best enjoyed on the street.
Step back into time and discover the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya. One of Sri Lanka’s absolute crown jewels to visit, the site was the built by King Kashyapa 1,500 years ago. The king’s goal was to build an impregnable fortress and a heavenly abode within it. Climb, at your pace, 1200 steps to reach the top to witness the most scenic birds eye view of emerald meadows and idyllic villages beneath you.
A short drive will have us in the ancient and sacred city of Anuradhapura, which dates back to the 3rd century BC. Not many cities in the world can boast of being in continuous habitation for over 2 millennia! The city is a sacred pilgrimage to the Buddhists and we will have a chance to see the scared fig tree, said to have been grown from a branch of the of Sri Maha Bodhi tree from India, under which the Budha gained enlightenment. We will also explore and discover the hidden archaeological site of Kaludiya Pokuna and witness monks in deep meditation.
Leisure day at the resort, or opt in for a tour of Polunnaruwa.
The second capital of ancient Sri Lanka, the town today boasts of 9th century monuments built by the Cholas of India and ruins of a fabulous garden-city created by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century.
Discover the world heritage site of Dambulla cave temples. Admire stunning Buddhist murals and a treasure trove of ancient statues, including the spectacular reclining Buddha carved out of solid granite.
Arrive in Kandy in time for tea. Despite being Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy is remarkably laid back. Explore this mesmerising holy town in the evening at leisure.
The ancient and holy city of Kandy is mesmerising indeed! While the rest of Sri Lanka fell to the Tamil, Portuguese and Dutch rule, the kings of Kandy remained fiercely defiant and independent. It was only much later, in 1815, that the city fell to the worlds largest empire – the British. Discover the ancient Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, which houses a tooth of the Buddha.
Embark on of what is considered one the worlds most beautiful and scenic train journeys! The train journey to the highlands of Ella passes along mountain edges and spectacular views of lush valleys, rolling tea plantations and idyllic villages. Lose yourself in nature as you explore the charming town of Ella, where the air is crisp and cool, the vegetation lush and fruit growing aplenty.
Yala National park is Si Lanka’s most famous wildlife reserves and for good reason. Forming a total area of 1268 square km of scrub, light forest, grassy plains and brackish lagoons, it’s very rich in wildlife and you’re virtually certain to encounter leopards, elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and monkeys. Originally a hunting ground for the British during colonial rule, Yala’s grassy plains and tangled forests now host the highest density of leopards in the wild.
Relax in luxury in the wild in our carefully chosen wildlife . Relax on the beach, unwind in the fabulous pool or indulge in a spa treatment, before tucking in to dinner among the trees and hitting the rooftop bar, where you can take in panoramic views of the forest and ocean while enjoying a sundowner.
There are places that truly capture the imagination of travellers, and the alluring coastal town of Galle is one of them. This port city in southern Sri Lanka is one of the island’s ‘must-see’ stops, and its Old Town and Fortifications have earned it the UNESCO World Heritage Site recognition. The walls that envelope the Galle fort have kept the inner city protected from years of turmoil and conquest, making Galle into a synthesis of the country’s history. From Muslim gem traders and Portuguese adventurers to savvy Dutch privateers – and let’s not forget the English – they all made the city their home at some point in history. Take in Galle’s unique atmosphere as you stroll through the historic town with your guide. Feel as if you have been transported back in time as you stop by Galle’s charming shops and admire its beautifully restored colonial mansions.
A lively town with an unmistakable colonial air, Negombo boasts of some of Sri Lanka’s best pubs and night haunts. This is where Sri Lanka gets as rowdy as she can be, which isn’t very. As you get ready to depart Sri Lanka, spend a few hours in the strip around the Rodeo bar and Pub Sherry.
Depart
HOTELS - SECRETS OF THE SPICE TOUR
At Indian Expeditions, we understand the importance of good hotels throughout a touring holiday. All the hotels on our tours of Sri Lanka have been personally selected by our directors to ensure they meet the highest standards. We have personally stayed in the hotels and experienced first hand how their services are. We have also hosted many groups of travellers in them. Furthermore, we have paid special attention in making sure the hotels we stay in suit the western traveller. Each hotel on our Sri Lankan Tours has its own unique style and character, but all share the same high and excellent standard.
Though our tours are advertised as tours with 5 star hotels, some boutique hotels may not have a star rating, but have the same level of service and comfort as a 5 star.
Due to the growth in tourism in Sri Lanka, it may not always be possible to stay at our listed accommodation and an alternative of equal standards will be found.
Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo
Set in the heart of Colombo, Cinnamon Lakeside is a strikingly contemporary 5 star hotel with elegant and extremely comfortable rooms. Perfect to recharge after a long haul flights and to get ready for the tours. Rooms are well-appointed with luxury, contemporary comforts and furnished with local artefacts, and the large picture windows ensure that natural light floods in and have great views of the Colombo lake.
Jetwing Lake, Dambulla
Breakfast looking out over a lake, and the mountain ranges beyond, is not a usual set up. Yet that’s what you’ll get used while you stay at the fabulous Jetwing Lake resort. At this five star hotel, nature and man-made luxury seamlessly collide to offer its guests lakeside living at it’s finest. It’s a languid retreat sprawling over an area of 7 hectares, and a space that has carved its place in nature without disturbing it.
Earl’s Regency, Kandy
Earl’s Regency is a brilliant hotel that offers spacious accommodation and attentive personal service in a beautiful natural setting overlooking a river. A vast garden provides an irresistible opportunity to unwind and relax under the shade of tropical trees, while the wide verandas provide the perfect place to doze away the afternoon with your favourite novel. Only a short drive from Kandy, this enchanting property is a relaxing alternative for those seeking a break from the bustle of city life.
98 Acers Resort, Ella
98 Acers is uniquely designed resort blends well with nature, and consists of charming chalets mostly made of recyclable substance. Discarded railway sleepers are put to good use in the making of decks and walls at the resort. Rough, hewn granite lend simple elegance to the floors of chalets adorned with thatched roofs of ‘Illuk’ straw that adds to their rustic beauty. The exquisite country side, breathtaking views and exciting nature trails will assure you of a memorable holiday at one of the most breathtaking hotels in the region.
Jetwing Yala, Yala
Perfectly positioned between the Indian Ocean and Yala National Park, Jetwing Yala Hotel sprawls over 38 acres of land bordering coastal wilderness at the end of Sri Lanka’s south eastern shores. Each hotel room boasts an open-air balcony or terrace to take full advantage of the glorious natural surroundings, and the cool, contemporary décor is accentuated by hues of red and green which echo the tropical landscape. The hotel enjoys direct beach access, and there is a host of leisure and wellness options within the hotel’s own grounds.
Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle
Located on the coast, the Lighthouse was designed by the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. A striking feature of this hotel is the spiral staircase between the entrance and main reception area — its sculpted metalwork balustrade depicts a battle between the invading Dutch colonisers and the Sinhalese. Situated on a rocky headland the hotel boasts wonderful views of the Indian Ocean, while grass terraces lead down to a small sandy beach
Jetwing Blue, Negombo
Designed by noted Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa, Jetwing Blu is arguably the best of the hotels in Negombo. All clean lines, cream walls and polished hardwood, it spills straight out onto the beach, where there are a pool, restaurant and neat line of loungers.
Trip Information
CLIMATE
Sun-kissed – in a word! Glorious sunny days with bright blue skies is the norm. The climate of Sri Lanka is tropical. The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on which part of the country you’re going to. It’s a year-round destination with consistent warmth and lots of sunshine, with temperatures averaging between 31°C at their highest and 22°C at their lowest. It’s normally hotter in coastal areas and the lowlands than it is in areas with higher altitude. Showers can occur at any time. The southwest coast is best between August and April, before their monsoon season starts, while the east coast and the north is less humid between May and September, when their monsoon season is over. The central hills remain cooler all year round.
The weather in Sri Lanka is rather complicated for such a small country, due to the fact that the island is affected by two separate monsoons. On the bright side, this means that there is usually good weather somewhere on the island at most times of the year.
The main southwest (“Yala”) monsoon brings rain to the west and southwest coasts and the hill country from April or May to September and is wettest from April to June.
The less severe northeast (“Maha”) monsoon hits the east coast from November to March and is wettest from November to December.
There’s also a inter-monsoonal period of unsettled weather preceding the Maha monsoon in October and November. During this time heavy rainfall and thunderstorms can occur anywhere across the island.
Time difference to GMT
+5.5 hours
Plugs
3 Pin Flat
Religion
Buddhism, Hindu, Islam, Catholicism, Protestant.
Language
English is spoken widely. Other major languages are Sinhala and Tamil. Our tours are conducted in English.
FOOD AND DRINK
The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more. The water quality is poor and therefore it is recommended to avoid drinking tap water during your trip.
Lunch price
£8 / $ 10
Dinner price
£8 / $ 10
Beer price
£3 / $4
Water bottle price
£0.5 / $ .05
Foreign Exchange
LOCAL CURRENCY
Sri Lankan Rupee (SLR)
RECOMMENDED CURRENCY FOR EXCHANGE
GBP/US$ are the best currency to change into local currency.
WHERE TO EXCHANGE
The Sri Lankan Rupee is a restricted currency and it is best not to obtain in the UK as rates are very poor. We strongly advise you not to exchange you at airports on arrival as they give very poor rates. Your Tour Leader will advise you on the best places in each town. Both GBP and USD cash are easy to exchange. It’s not possible to change money using a credit or debit card.
ATM AVAILABILITY
ATMs are available widely. You must inform your bank that you are travelling to India and ask them to enable your cards to have withdrawal / transactions enabled for Sri Lanka.
CREDIT CARD ACCEPTANCE
In most establishments that are medium to large.
TRAVELLERS CHEQUES
Opportunities to exchange are limited.
CLOTHING
Sri Lanka is a tropical region with high humidity. Lightweights are needed all year round with some warmer clothes for the cooler winter evenings (November to February) in hill stations such as Ella. Casual clothes are the most practical: tight fitting garments, brief shorts and skirts should be avoided, since they attract unwelcome attention. It is mandatory to wear trousers in some temples and religious monuments. Swim wear can be worn in very few beaches but in all resorts and hotels if you are using the pool or the resorts private beach. Bring a light and easy to carry water bottle.
FOOTWEAR
Walking shoes or trainers and sandals are recommended. Note that temples do not allow footwear to be worn inside, and footwear must be left at the entrance of temples. You can wear socks inside.
LUGGAGE
While our maximum cap on luggage per person is 50 KG – two main pieces of luggage and day sac, we highly recommend that you do not overload yourself. One main piece of baggage and a day sac per person are recommended. Most hotels where we stay at offer express laundry services for about USD 1 – USD 2 per piece.
EQUIPMENT
Binoculars, torch, sun screen, insect repellent.
TIPPING
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff (like in hotels, or drivers) will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group’s tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
Accordingly, you should allow GBP35 / $ 40 approx. 5000 Sri Lankan Rupees for group tipping.
For all non-included services and meals on your trip please tip independently at your discretion.
Transport Information
Sedans, such as the Toyota Etios. SUVS such as the Toyota Innova / Volkswagen Taigun. Minibuses such as the Force Tempo or Force Urbania. All vehicles used will be in excellent condition, fitted with individual bucket seats and with air conditioning. The type of vehicle used will be at our discretion, though if you have any preference do send us an email and we will try to accommodate your request.
Accommodation notes
Accommodation in South India is as varied as the region itself and standards might not always meet those back home. We have chosen the best of the best resorts and hotels for your adventure.
All rooms are twin-share and they have their own bathroom attached.All towels and bedding are provided.
Government Travel Safety Advice
We strongly recommend that you check your government’s travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination: safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. For UK citizens, check the latest Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office advice.
Price Guarantee
Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.
Visa and Passport Information
India: Holders of passports endorsed British citizen, as well as Australian, New Zealand and US passport holders may be eligible for the e-Tourist Visa to enter India.
The visa can be applied for through the official Indian government visa website only – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . Please check all eligibility criteria that can be found on the website but important points are listed below –
You must be arriving into one of 29 selected entry points which can be found via the official Indian Government website link above. However, you can exit from any of the authorised immigration check posts in India.
Passports must have at least 6 months validity from the date of arrival in India and at least two blank pages for stamping. Visa applications will take approximately 4 days to process.
Those applying for a 30 day electronic visa can only apply within 30 days of arrival for your visa to be valid. Furthermore double entry is permitted and you can only obtain two 30-day visas in a calendar year.
Please note these costs are subject to frequent change so you should check on the official Indian government visa website mentioned above. Biometric data will be collected on arrival in India.
If you are not eligible for the e-Tourist Visa, please refer to VFS Global to apply for your Indian visa – https://www.vfsglobal.com/india/uk/how_to_apply.html
Whilst the online form offers a relatively quick way to apply for a visa, some applicants have reported difficulty in completing the form. If you would like to use a visa service to process your visa on your behalf, we recommend CIBT Visas. They have expert knowledge in visa requirements, and are dedicated to ensuring that obtaining your visas is as efficient and hassle-free as possible.
CIBT provide various levels of visa service, including detailed information about which visas and documentation you and your party require, clear and user-friendly application forms, and a full concierge service to manage your application from start to finish. There is a team of experts on hand to offer advice, and liaise with embassies on your behalf.
It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
Booking conditions
Before booking your Indian Expeditions trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
Your safety and enjoyment on tour
We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at info@experienceindia.co.uk as soon as possible.
Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred.
Your Tour Leader
We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments on trip – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.
Insurance
It is a condition of booking with Indian Expeditions that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. Please ensure that you are covered for the full duration of your holiday, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy.
Vaccinations
Nothing compulsory, but we recommend protection against Tetanus, Infectious Hepatitis, Typhoid and Polio. Please consult your travel clinic for the latest advice on Malaria, Dengue and Zika Virus. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Testimonials
The people who know best
A journey of a lifetime, what fun we all had as well as the amount of things we learnt! Indian Expeditions curated a cultural tour of Sri Lanka that was nothing short of extraordinary. The guides were not just knowledgeable but passionate about sharing the rich heritage of this beautiful country. And the hotels? Pure luxury! Thank you for an unforgettable experience.
Rating ★★★★★
Absolutely mesmerising! The tour of Sri Lanka with Indian Expeditions really exceeded all expectations. From the captivating historical sites of Sri Lanka to the warm hospitality of the hotels, every moment was a delight. Kudos to the exceptional team for their insightful commentary and for organising a flawless trip.
Rating ★★★★★
Perfect, perfect, perfect! Indian Expeditions 14 day cultural tour of Sri Lanka was an absolute dream come true. The team were not only experts in their field but also delightful companions, making every excursion a memorable one. And the accommodations? Pure indulgence! Thank you for a meticulously organised and unforgettable adventure.
Rating ★★★★★
Exceeding expectations at every turn! From the moment we landed in Sri Lanka, Indian Expeditions took care of every detail, ensuring a seamless and enriching cultural experience. The trip lead, Chandan, was exceptional, offering deep insights into the country’s heritage, and the 5-star hotels provided a level of comfort and luxury that truly elevated the trip. Thank you for a truly unforgettable journey.
Rating ★★★★★
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