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Best of Sri Lanka

Name: Best of Sri Lanka
Brand: Exodus
Rating: 4 (2 reviews)

2 reviews

Activity

Culture

Overview

See how bright the Gem Island sparkles on this compact adventure packed with authentic experiences

In Sanskrit, Sri Lanka was nicknamed Ratna-Dweepa, the Gem Island, for its abundance of precious stones and sparkling jewels. But our expert tour leaders want to share its true treasures with you. Join them on this highlight-packed adventure to enjoy priceless experiences: climbing the ancient Sigiriya rock fortress in the early morning, spotting elephants on safari, cycling through rural villages as the people wave to you, and tucking into the flavoursome cuisine. The adventure ends in seaside Negombo – the perfect opportunity to extend your stay and enjoy a few days relaxing on the beach.

Key Information

Trip Code: ASK
Ways to Travel: Guided Group
Countries: Sri Lanka
Carbon Footprint: 54.7kg CO2e per person per day

What's Included

7 Superior nights (hotels)
All breakfasts, one lunch, one dinner
Immersive itinerary with all transport and listed activities
Expert tour leader to enhance your adventure
Group arrival and departure transfers available

Don't Forget To

Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations.

Highlights

Search for elephants on an unforgettable game drive
Cycle through rural Sri Lanka and enjoy a traditional village lunch
Climb Sigiriya rock fortress in the cooler early morning
Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
Explore the tea plantations around Nuwara Eliya and taste authentic Ceylon tea

Itinerary

First Destination: Colombo
Next Destination: Negombo, near Colombo

Accommodation:Ramada Colombo (or similar)
Meals included:Dinner

Accommodation:Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Accommodation:Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Accommodation:Galway Heights (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Accommodation:Jetwing Blue Negombo (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Meals included:Breakfast

First Destination: Colombo
Next Destination: Negombo, near Colombo

Begin your adventure in Colombo, the energetic capital of Sri Lanka.

At 3.30pm, say ayubowan to your tour leader and fellow travellers at our hotel, where we gather as a group for the first time to get to know each other and learn more about the adventures ahead. That’s followed by an orientation tour around the city.

Your tour leader then ensures a big Sri Lankan welcome by arranging dinner and cocktails at the historic Galle Face Hotel, where we can watch the sun set over the Indian Ocean.

Want to explore Colombo further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation:Ramada Colombo (or similar)
Meals included:Dinner

Bid farewell to Colombo and transfer (4hr 20min) to Sigiriya this morning, an essential stop on any tour of Sri Lanka.

After dropping off our bags at the hotel, head into Minneriya National Park this afternoon. Riding in open-sided 4x4s, we search for the park’s large elephant herds, while also keeping an eye out for sambar deer, wild buffalo, sloth bears and more.

Alternatively, if your tour leader’s intel reveals the safari is better in Hurulu Eco Park or Kaudulla National Park, we go there instead – ensuring the best safari possible based on where the elephants are gathered.

End the day at Hotel Sigiriya, which has an excellent view of the ancient Sigiriya rock fortress from the pool area.

Accommodation:Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

We’re off to the small city of Girithale this morning, a 55-minute drive away, where we hop on bikes for a leisurely cycle through small villages and past lakes, which should take around two hours. If you’d prefer not to cycle, you can hire a tuk tuk (approximately 6,000 rupees/US$20) and follow the group.

Along the way, we see the local people going about their daily routine – expect smiles and waves as we go! We should also spot plenty of bird life, including egrets, brahminy kites, kingfishers and bulbuls. Breaking up the journey, we stop for lunch in a traditional village before returning to our hotel in Sigiriya by late afternoon with time to enjoy a post-ride dip in the pool.

Accommodation:Hotel Sigiriya (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Rise early this morning to climb the rock fortress of Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, before the strongest heat of the day. Probably the standout attraction in Sri Lanka, Sigiriya comprises the ruins of a fifth-century palace, which crowns an imposing granite peak. We drive to the base, where a moat surrounds impressive water gardens. We then take the route to the top, via a series of steep steps and gangways, ascending 655ft (200m) and passing an overhanging rock, under which portraits of native maidens holding flowers and temple offerings still adorn the rock wall. On the flat-topped summit are extensive remains of the King’s Summer Palace.

Returning to the hotel for breakfast, we then set off to Dambulla, where we visit the magnificent Cave Temple, taking the back entrance, where there are fewer steps. Among the most impressive sights in Sri Lanka, it is home to colourful, well-preserved paintings and Buddha statues, which date to the first century BCE.

Finally, we transfer (2hr 40min) to Kandy, where we stay for the next two nights.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

We visit the Temple of the Tooth, which houses the most important Buddhist relic in Sri Lanka. The Tooth of Buddha was taken from his funeral pyre in 543 BCE and only found its way to Sri Lanka in the fourth century CE. Hundreds of worshippers visit the temple each day and in August the most spectacular ceremony takes place. Some of our August trips should coincide with the Kandy festival, but the exact dates, decided by priests, are not known until five months before the event.

Later, we take a leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake, enjoying the peaceful surroundings, and taking in views of the city and hills.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony today – speak to your sales representative for more details

Accommodation:Hotel Suisse (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

After breakfast, we leave Kandy and transfer (approximately 2hr 30min to 3hr) to Nuwara Eliya, a popular hill station during the British era, situated in the cool highland air. Known locally as Little England, it is dotted with British-style houses and parks and features a golf club and racecourse.

Here, we visit a tea factory to discover the fascinating process of tea production, from plucking fresh tea leaves to processing and packaging. Enjoy the aroma of freshly brewed tea and enjoy a tasting session to experience the rich flavours of Ceylon tea.

After, we enjoy a scenic drive through Nuwara Eliya, admiring the lush tea plantations, beautifully manicured gardens and rolling hills.

Accommodation:Galway Heights (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

Leave the tea hills and transfer (4hr 50min) to the coastal city of Negombo, a short drive north of Colombo. On the way, there is the option to stop in Kitugala for a white-water rafting adventure (see the Optional Excursions section of the Trip Notes for more details).

Arrive into Negombo late afternoon or early evening. Our tour leader will arrange a group dinner, where we can share our favourite moments from the trip.

Accommodation:Jetwing Blue Negombo (or similar)
Meals included:Breakfast

The adventure ends in Negombo today, and we begin our return journeys home. Alternatively,speak to your sales representative about extending your stay in Negombo and enjoying some downtime by the beach.

Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, deposit-only payments, and full ATOL protection available.

Call us: 020 3733 5948

Your Group, Your Adventure

Want to choose your travel companions? Gather your family and friends and let us create a Private Adventure just for you.

View Details

Accommodation

A selection of hotels

We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.

Upgrade to a room with a balcony on Day 4 and 5 of the itinerary – speak to your sales representative for more details

Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book.

Post-trip Extensions

Exclusive Add-ons

Sri Lanka Beach Hotels

Recharge with a few relaxing nights by the beach and make your Sri Lankan adventure feel even more extraordinary. Think warm waves, swaying palms, and fresh seafood enjoyed with a coastal breeze. Here are a few of our favourite beach hotels to inspire your stay:

Jetwing Lighthouse, Galle: An iconic hotel celebrated for its unique architectural heritage near the historic trading post of Galle. Perched on a rocky headland with rooms overlooking the Indian Ocean, Jetwing Lighthouse offers exceptional service, multiple pools and elegant dining.

Heritance Ahungalla: Set in a tranquil coastal location, this five-star resort blends beachfront luxury with sweeping ocean views. Its prime position on a long stretch of sandy beach makes it perfect for travellers looking to unwind and soak up Sri Lanka’s natural beauty.

Jetwing Beach Hotel, Negombo: A stylish and comfortable base with direct access to Negombo’s golden sands and a beachfront pool. Spacious rooms, excellent dining and close proximity to the airport make it an ideal choice for unwinding before your journey home.

This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your sales representative, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.

Maldives Hotels

Why not end your adventure with a touch of luxury in the Maldives, just a one-hour flight from Sri Lanka?

Beautiful islands covered with tropical vegetation, surrounded by wide sandy beaches and azure waters. Spend your days diving, snorkelling or swimming in the warm, calm ocean. For an unforgettable stay pick an iconic Overwater Villa, where panoramic sea views and serene sunsets come as standard. With many properties offering all-inclusive options, the Maldives can offer an indulgent finale to your holiday. Here are a few of our favourites to inspire your stay:

Royal Island Resort, Baa Atoll: Set on a lush, palm-fringed island in a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, this peaceful retreat is known for its excellent diving/snorkelling, serene beaches and relaxed, natural atmosphere.

Hotel Riu Atoll, Dhaalu Atoll: A modern, all-inclusive resort offering overwater suites, beachfront rooms and a selection of dining options on Maafushi island. With great snorkelling, it’s perfect for those who want convenience and activities.

Taj Coral Reef Resort, North Malé Atoll: A stylish boutique island retreat, renowned for its vibrant marine life and exceptional diving. With elegant villas and personalised service, it offers an intimate and luxurious escape.

This is just a glimpse of what’s possible. Speak to your sales representative, who can guide you through the options and arrange everything for you.

Essential Information

This trip is rated Activity Level 2 (Easy & Moderate). For more information on our trip gradings, visit the Activity Level Guidelines page. If you have any queries about the difficulty of the trip, please contact us.

Suitability: This is not a demanding trip, although there are a few long drives on bumpy, twisty mountain roads; regular stops break up the journeys and the buses we use are comfortable and air conditioned. Some included activities, such as walking up the Sigiriya rock fortress, are of Moderate difficulty. They’re done at a relaxed pace but may not be suitable for someone with reduced fitness or mobility issues. Your tour leader can advise on the trip if you have any concerns.

Sigiriya: When visiting Sigiriya, the final ascent is on metal open stairs fixed against the side of the rock. There are handrails on either side but, if you have a strong fear of heights, you may prefer to stay on the lower level (by the lion ‘paws’). You can rejoin the group when they return from the plateau.

Key information

Start hotel: Ramada Colombo, 30 Sir Mohomad Macan Markar Mawatha, Colombo 00300
Phone: +94 112 422 001
Recommended arrival time: Aim to arrive at the start hotel before 3.30pm for the welcome briefing
Airport: Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB)

Getting to the start hotel

The start hotel is approximately 40 minutes’ drive from the airport. We provide one group transfer from the airport to the hotel, which you can join at no extra cost, provided you can be at the airport before the transfer leaves. Speak to your sales representative for the transfer times or to arrange a private transfer.

Catching your return flight

There’s one group transfer to the airport, which you can join at no extra cost. Please speak to your sales representative for the time of the transfer. If the group transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative.

Sri Lanka

Travellers from the UK, US and EU normally need a visa (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Travellers from most countries can obtain a 30-day ETA (US$50) at www.eta.gov.lk. We strongly recommend that you do this prior to travel to avoid any complications and delays on arrival. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

Local customs and laws: You should be aware of local laws and customs in Sri Lanka (see: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka/local-laws-and-customs). The mistreatment of Buddhist images and artefacts is an offence; please note, people have been refused entry to Sri Lanka because of visible tattoos of Buddha.

Allow about 7,000 rupees (US$23) per day for lunch and dinner.

You can eat out very cheaply in Sri Lanka and your tour leader provides recommendations for where to eat locally; however, the options may not always be suited to larger groups. Some locations you stay may have limited local restaurant choice, in which case meals will be at the hotel. Hotel meals are generally buffets; the majority offer an à la carte menu, but service can be slow.

Sri Lankan cuisine is a fascinating reflection of the island’s heritage, a unique fusion of fresh local produce with spices brought to the island over the centuries by Malays, Arabs and Indians plus the Dutch, Portuguese and English.

Vegetarians are well catered for but please inform us before departure of any special dietary requests. Please note, the availability of certain products is minimal or non-existent in Sri Lanka. For example, wheat- or dairy-free options outside of hotels are limited. Please be prepared for this – you may need to bring these from home. Spicier food can be avoided easily and lots of the hotels will serve Western options alongside traditional food.

Mineral water is provided by our local operator in large containers throughout the trip so please bring a bottle with you to refill.

Sri Lanka has a tropical climate with two distinct wet seasons or monsoons. The southwest monsoon brings rain to that area of the island between May and August. The northeast monsoon takes place from October to January and only really affects the north and east coastal regions. Generally, expect rain at some time but with plenty of sunshine. On the plains, day- and night-time temperatures are warm to hot with Colombo having an average daytime temperature of 30C (86F). The temperatures drop as we go higher into the hills.

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

You’ll also find Thriving Nature, Thriving People moments across our trips. These experiences are often a highlight of your adventure, while also benefiting the natural world or local communities.

On this trip, we:

Stop for lunch in a traditional village near Girithale, supporting local households through community-hosted dining.

Reviews

Add new review

Linda Tanner

Added March 2026

8 day guided - guide Danu

This was a well planned excellent tour using a very comfortable, clean small bus. The hotels used were varied but all satisfactory, service, facilities and rooms were of a good standard. The driver was competent and both he his assistant were courteous andhelpful. Inevitability there was quite a lot of travel, but there were sufficient stops and activities. The exception being the final day when it felf as though we spent most of the day in We saw may sites and experienced a number of activities, yet rarely felt rushed.

Most Inspirational Moment

Difficult ! Perhaps being so close to an elephant, perhaps the optional cookery class, but maybe the warmth and happiness of the population.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Danu was brilliant. We were totally ‘looked after’ as a group and personally from help finding ATMs, to checking we had sunhats, to recommending restuarants…. infact nothing was too much trouble. He was faultless. We were fortunate to be a small but very cohesive group who all got on well, initially this was due to Danu involving everyone at meals, having tables reserved for breakfasts etc. i cannot recommend him more.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Travel light, take every opportunity offered. Take the chance to chat and do any activities that use the locals. If the weather is overcast and warm use mosi repellent on the rafting. The additional cookery class was a real highlight and the food was superb. This tour only had one ‘selling’ event…. to a gem factory (the tea factory was very pleasant and informative with no ‘hard sell’)

Julie Monument

Added March 2026

Wonderful experience

I joined the trip in Colombo , meeting a friendly group of like minded travellers . The tour was well planned , encompassing many highlights of the ‘ cultural triangle ‘ . The visit to the tea plantation was interesting and informative , however the stay at Nuwara Elia was less so , since the town did not have much to offer in terms of interesting sights

Most Inspirational Moment

There were several inspiring moments ; the caves at Dambulla were awe inspiring as was the visit to the ‘ Temple of the tooth in Kandy . Climbing ‘Lion rock ‘ in the early morning and experiencing the spectacular views . Encountering 25 elephants whilst on safari in the National park was a privilege

Thoughts on Group Leader

Danu was friendly , well organised and had an excellent knowledge of the history of Sri Lanka . It was a pleasure to have him as our leader .

Advice for Potential Travellers

The tour is quite ‘fast paced ‘ ; be prepared for relatively early starts . The weather can sometimes be cloudy with some rain so be prepared with suitable clothing

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