17D Journey Through Ceylon

Price from $5663 per person on twin sharing basis

Colombo – Makandura – Sigiriya – Kandy – Castlereagh – Yala National Park – Galle – Balapitiya - Colombo

Embark on a breathtaking journey through Sri Lanka, beginning in the vibrant capital Colombo, where colonial charm meets modern bustle. Head to Makandura, a peaceful countryside escape, before venturing to the iconic rock fortress of Sigiriya, surrounded by lush jungle and ancient history. Immerse yourself in culture and spirituality in Kandy, home to the revered Temple of the Tooth. Then retreat to the misty highlands of Castlereagh, where serene tea plantations and lakeside tranquility await. For wildlife enthusiasts, Yala National Park offers thrilling safaris and a chance to spot leopards in the wild. Continue south to the coastal beauty of Galle, with its UNESCO-listed fort and colonial ambiance, before unwinding along the tranquil riverbanks of Balapitiya. Finally, return to Colombo, completing a diverse and unforgettable loop through Sri Lanka’s most captivating destinations.

Itinerary

Day 1

Colombo

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to your hotel.

Day 2

Colombo – Sigiriya (B)

Drive to Sigiriya. This region is Sri Lanka's cultural heart and encompasses ancient cities, monasteries, rock-cut caves and monolithic Buddhas.

Day 3

Sigiriya – Anuradhapura – Sigiriya (B)

Day trip to Anuradhapura and visit to the Ruwanwelimaha Seya, the great stupa of Lanka and the Jaya Sri MahaBodhiya, the sacred fig tree, one of the oldest trees in the world. Behold the serene beauty of Samadhi Buddha Statue and spend the afternoon riding the waters of Kala Wawa.

Day 4

Sigiriya – Minneriya – Polonnaruwa – Sigiriya (B)

Morning Safari at Minneriya NP, located between Habarana and Polonnaruwa, the 8,890 hectares of Minneriya National Park features the ancient Minneriya Tank. Constructed in an evergreen forest where sambar deer, leopards, and elephants roam. Afternoon visit Polonnaruwa ancient city, exploring one of the better kept ruins of ancient heritage city of Polonnaruwa and a boat ride in Parakrama Samudraya.

Day 5

Sigiriya – Dambulla – Kandy (B)

This morning drive to Dambulla and visit the richly painted caves of this important temple complex. Later continue to Kandy. Capital of the highlands, Kandy is best known for the opulent Temple of Tooth and later visit the temple where Buddha's tooth relic is housed

Day 6

Kandy (B)

The picturesque city of Kandy is home to numerous palaces, parks and gardens. Spend the morning exploring the colourful bazaar Kandy Museum. Afternoon travel to the magnificent Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, former royal garden, home to over 4,000 species.

Day 7

Kandy – Hatton - Castlereagh (B/D)

This morning, travel by train on the spectacular journey from Peradeniya Station to Hatton in the heart of the island’s tea growing region. At Hatton continue to Castlereagh and one of the Tea Trails bungalows.

Day 8

Castlereagh (B/L/D)

Day is at leisure or to explore the beautiful Bogawantalawa Valley. There are numerous trails through immaculate tea gardens ranging from gentle walks to more strenuous treks and the abundant birdlife makes for enjoyable birding. The old colonial hill-station of Nuwara Eliya, complete with 18-hole championship golf course, is also only a short drive away.

Day 9

Castlereagh – Yala NP (B)

This morning leave tea country and drive to the famous Yala National Park - a large reserve with a mixture of habitats ranging from open parkland and dense jungle, to a myriad of flooded lagoons and high coastal sand dunes. Yala is also a base for visiting the ancient, and now abandoned, royal city of Tissamaharama.

Day 10

Yala NP (B)

Enjoy morning Jungle Safari. The park is known for its elephant population andalso spotted deer, wild boar, jackal, monkey, sloth bear and crocodile. Birdlife is also abundant with over 130 species recorded. Late afternoon, proceed for another Safari.

Day 11

Yala NP – Galle (B)

Leave Yala and drive to the coastal city of Galle, charming town was visited by Ibn Batuta during the 14th century and was subsequently controlled by the Portuguese, Dutch and British.

Day 12

Galle (B)

Today explore the atmospheric fort. The colonial architecture here is incredibly well-preserved with the city gates and ramparts, 18th century Dutch Reformed Church, Arab Quarter and old post office.

Day 13

Galle – Balapitiya (B)

Today drive to coastal Balapitiya for a beach stay.

Day 14

Balapitiya (B)

Day at leisure

Day 15

Balapitiya (B)

Day at leisure

Day 16

Balapitiya (B)

Day at leisure

Day 17

Balapitiya – Colombo (B)

Transfer to Colombo Airport to connect onward flight.

Private program - can start any day of the week and can be customised

Included: Accommodation in 4* Hotel, meals as shown above, transfers & sightseeing, local English speaking chauffer-guide, entrance fees at monuments

Prices quoted are valid till 30 September 2026. Cost above is indicative, based on Low Season in NZ Dollars and subject to change due to fluctuation in exchange rates. Please read T&C before booking. Call 09 410 5060 or 0508 EXOTIC (0508 396 842) or email info@exotic.net.nz for more information.