From Ancient Spires to Wild Tides: The Ultimate Sri Lanka Odyssey

Day 01 – 22 February

Arrival and transfer to Waikkal

Airport – Waikkal, 20km – approximately 40 minute drive

Overnight The Suriya Resort, Waikkal

Day 02 – 23 February

Leave after breakfast for an interesting boat tour to explore Negombo.

Arrive at the Negombo Fish Market where you will board a small boat. Enjoy a unique perspective of the Negombo Fish Market as the boat weaves through hundreds of colourful fishing boats which have just come ashore heavy with the previous nights catch. Make your way down river to the ocean. A short ride out to sea will bring you to wear the iconic “Catamaran Fishing Boats” of Negombo will be busy fishing. Navigate around the catamarans and proceed northward to wear you can enter the Dutch canal and continue north. The canal will offer a chance to really absorb the essence of local life as it unfolds on either side of the canal.

Meet vehicle and proceed to Sigiriya, located in the central cultural region of the island.

Negombo – Sigiriya, 155km – approximately 03 ½ hour drive

Stop en route to visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The walk to the summit of the small hill which houses the caves can be especially exciting as curious monkeys will often come along for company! Remember not to carry any bananas in your pockets unless you want to attract a ‘pickpocket monkey’!!’ This walk includes a climb of approx 150 steps with some beautiful views and descent of 50 steps although it is possible for the group to opt for the shorter 50 step ascent option if preferred and if you prefer to opt out of this you can always stay with the coach or even walk around the Dambulla town and explore while the group is visiting the temple.

Overnight The Sigiriyaaya by Jetwing, Sigiriya

Day 03 – 24 February

Leave after breakfast to explore the ancient royal capital of Polonnaruwa, one of the most beautiful centres in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. Discover on foot, or by bicycle, the wonderful treasures that remain in the archaeological park including the four beautiful rock-cut Buddha statues at Gal Vihara Temple.

Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa, 60km – approximately 01 ½ hour drive each way

In the evening at 1630 hrs, just before sunset, we leave for an interesting walk (approx 1km) along the bund of the nearby lake . The lake at dusk will be completely different with the awakening of its nocturnal inhabitants. Meet a local farmer at the edge of the bund where he will take us a across a small river on his catamaran to access his small farm located in the middle of a scrub jungle. We have a quiet discussion with the farmer and especially about how he watches over his plot through the night to protect it from wild elephants and boar. The discussion must be handled with sensitivity as these farmers sometimes do harm wild elephants and other animals, but only because they feel they have no option. This is a result of humans encroaching on wildlife habitat… the animals sometimes destroy entire farms in a single nights invasion. This means that the farmers’ family will be bankrupt and will have no hope for the future. Therefore, farmers are driven to hurt animals out of desperation… This problem can only be solved at a government level, but it is interesting to learn the local realities.

Climb up to one of the small watch huts/tree houses which are located around the boundary of the farm and imagine what it must be like to see wild elephants approaching the farm, late at night and how the farmer tries to scare them away with the use of fireworks!

Later we walk to the farmers’ home in the nearby village where his wife will prepare a lovely local dinner consisting of ‘string hoppers’ and fish curry!

Return walk to the hotel after dinner (approx 1km).

Overnight The Sigiriyaaya by Jetwing, Sigiriya

Day 04 – 25 February

Wake up a little early today, just before sunrise. Leave soon after tea/coffee and a light snack, to be at the Rock Fortress of Sigiriya at 6.00am just as the sun begins to rise. In addition to the fact that Sigiriya at dawn will be an almost mystical and incredible experience, visiting this early means you are likely to have the 8^th Wonder of the World all to yourself…. Or at the most to yourself and a handful of other visitors who appreciate the serenity of this incredible location.

Return to the resort for breakfast

Thereafter proceed to Kandy, Sri Lanka’s hill capital. Stop en route in Matale at a traditional spice garden to see Sri Lankan spices growing in their natural habitat.

Sigiriya – Kandy, 90km – approximately 02 ½ hour drive

In the evening we visit the much revered Temple of the Tooth Relic of the Lord Buddha in time for the ‘pooja’ which is a very special experience.

Overnight The Fox Resort, Kandy

Day 05 – 26 February

Spend the day exploring Kandy, Sri Lanka’s hill capital on your own. Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya or explore the marketplace and bazaar areas.

In the afternoon enjoy a cooking class at a local home. Join the family in their kitchen to learn how to prepare a Sri Lankan rice and curry meal which you will later enjoy together at dinner

Overnight The Fox Resort, Kandy

Day 06 – 27 February

Leave after breakfast by train to Nuwara Eliya. This is one of Sri Lanka’s most beautiful rail journeys as it goes through Tea Plantations and past beautiful waterfalls. Pick up at Nanu Oya Station and transfer 20 minutes to Nuwara Eliya.

Overnight The Mirage Kings Cottage, Nuwara Eliya

Day 07 – 28 February

Leave after breakfast to visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. The gardens includes beautifully landscaped flower gardens, several greenhouses for rare and unusual plants as well as a Japanese garden and a natural, forested area.

In the afternoon visit a tea Plantation and Factory to learn about the process of manufacturing Pure Ceylon Tea.

Overnight The Mirage Kings Cottage Nuwara Eliya

Day 08 – 01 March

Leave after breakfast for Yala. Stop en route in Buduruwagala to see the magnificent rock sculptures of the lord buddha.

Nuwara Eliya – Yala, 165km – approximately 04 ½ hour drive

Enjoy an afternoon jeep safari of Yala National Park to see leopard, sloth bear, elephant and other wildlife.

Yala is home to the greatest variety of Sri Lanka’s wildlife. More than three times larger than Udawalawe at 97,800 hectares, this is the second largest of Sri Lanka’s national parks. Its varying habitats which consists of scrub plains, jungles, rocky outcrops, freshwater lakes, rivers and beaches are home to many species of animals including sloth bear, herds of elephants, sambar, deer, crocodiles and the endangered leopard subspecies - Panthera Pardus Kotiya, which is only found in Sri Lanka. As per a study produced by National Geographic, Yala National Park has the highest density of leopard in the world. Early-morning or dusk safaris with an expert guide are the ideal times to visit the park when the animals come out to the waterholes. In certain years, Yala closes for 30 days in the dry season, usually in September or October to provide the animals with a much needed respite.

Overnight The Grand Tamarind Lake, Tissamaharama

Day 09 – 02 March

Enjoy the second Optional jeep safari of Yala National Park

Thereafter proceed to a beach resort located in the South coast of the island.

Yala – Ahangama, 140km – approximately 02 ½ hour drive

Overnight The Insight Resort Ahangama

Day 10 – 03 March

Explore the Dutch Fort at Galle before heading back towards Colombo.

The Galle Fort is the best preserved of the many Dutch Forts located around the country and truly allows a glimpse in to Sri Lanka’s colonial past. The tiny guest houses and restaurants located on quaint, narrow, cobblestoned streets which crisscross the fort; make it easy to imagine what life must have been like during the Dutch colonization. A walk along the magnificent ramparts which once fortified this town will be a spectacular end to your last day of exploring Sri Lanka.

Ahangama – Galle- Colombo, 175km – approximately 2½ hour drive  

Overnight Ramada Hotel Colombo

Day 11 – 04 March

Departure transfer to the airport

Suriya Resort, Waikkal / Negombo (night 1)

Around a 40-minute drive from Colombo International Airport, Suriya Resort combines international design with Sri Lankan charm. Set on the beautiful Waikkal beach, the resort enjoys a stunning location on a peninsula, overlooking the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean and bordered by the Ging Oya River.

Guests can choose from 42 elegant deluxe rooms, 14 spacious suites, and 6 private water chalets, each designed to offer peace, comfort, and a touch of luxury. Whether you’re looking for the facilities of an exclusive hotel or the warmth and privacy of a luxury resort, Suriya provides the perfect balance for a truly memorable stay.

Hotel Sigiriyaaya (night 2 & 3)

Just minutes from the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Hotel Sigiriyaaya offers a peaceful retreat surrounded by lush paddy fields. With 16 well-appointed rooms, the hotel provides a comfortable escape where relaxation, adventure, and great value come together.

What makes Hotel Sigiriyaaya truly special is its warm and genuine hospitality. Most of the team are from the local community, bringing authentic Sri Lankan charm to your stay while supporting the development of the surrounding area. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be welcomed with care and treated like part of the family.

Blending comfort, nature, and heartfelt service, Hotel Sigiriyaaya is the perfect base to experience the wonders of Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland.

Fox Kandy Resort (night 4 & 5)

A short drive southwest of Kandy, Fox Kandy is tucked away in the scenic Hantana mountain range. Perched on a cliff and surrounded by rolling tea and pepper plantations, the resort combines the cool climate of the hill country with breathtaking views that feel like stepping into a postcard.

This serene boutique resort offers the perfect balance of nature and modern comfort. Guests can relax in elegantly styled rooms with stunning views and curated art, take a refreshing swim in the infinity pool, indulge in a luxurious spa treatment, or enjoy exquisite dining where East meets West in a truly memorable culinary experience.

With Kandy as the gateway to both the cultural triangle and the hill country, Fox Kandy is an ideal base to explore Sri Lanka’s rich history while enjoying the tranquillity of the mountains.

Mirage Kings Cottage, Nuwara Eliya (night 6 & 7)

Set within a 100-year-old colonial residence once owned by F. R. Senanayake, brother of Sri Lanka’s first Prime Minister, Mirage Kings Cottage blends history with natural beauty. The property lies on a tranquil two-acre estate overlooking Lake Gregory and surrounded by the lush greenery of Galway Forest, where gardens of cypress trees and vibrant flowers create a peaceful retreat.

Located in the heart of Nuwara Eliya’s hill country, the hotel is surrounded by gushing streams, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills blanketed with world-famous Ceylon tea. With its cool climate, serene views, and rich heritage, Mirage Kings Cottage offers an atmospheric stay in Sri Lanka’s most picturesque highlands.

The Grand Tamarind Lake, Kataragama (night 8)

Perfectly located in southern Sri Lanka, The Grand Tamarind Lake offers easy access to the untamed wilderness of Yala National Park and the sacred Kataragama Temple. Overlooking the tranquil waters of Detagamuwa Lake, every room is designed to provide a sense of peace and relaxation. This intimate hotel combines comfort with charm, offering thoughtful amenities such as room service, a refreshing swimming pool, and an on-site restaurant. With its serene lakeside setting and proximity to wildlife and culture, The Grand Tamarind Lake is an ideal stop on your Sri Lankan journey.

Insight Resort, Ahangama (night 9)

Set in the charming coastal village of Ahangama, Insight Resort offers a peaceful escape with a stunning beach frontage and the chance to experience authentic southern Sri Lankan culture. Just over two hours from Colombo’s international airport, the resort provides the perfect getaway from city life, where fishing traditions and local heritage are still very much alive.

With 50 comfortable rooms and a dedicated team of friendly staff, Insight Resort combines warm hospitality with a relaxed, community-focused atmosphere. Guests are invited to engage with the local people, learn about their traditions, and enjoy an interactive holiday that goes beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re here to unwind on the golden sands, explore the culture of the south, or simply savour the tranquillity of the ocean, Insight Resort offers a truly memorable coastal stay.

Provisional Flight Information

21/02/2026 London Heathrow to Colombo Dep: 2040 Arr: 1230(+1)

04/03/2026 Colombo to London Heathrow Dep: 1250 Arr: 1910

21/02/2026 Birmingham to Dubai Dep: 2050 Arr: 0750(+1)

22/02/2026 Dubai to Colombo Dep: 1005 Arr: 1555

04/03/2026 Colombo to Dubai Dep: 0955 Arr: 1255

04/03/2026 Dubai to Birmingham Dep: 1450 Arr: 1845

21/02/2026 Manchester to Dubai Dep: 2040 Arr: 0755(+1)

22/02/2026 Dubai to Colombo Dep: 1005 Arr: 1555

04/03/2026 Colombo to Dubai Dep: 0955 Arr: 1255

04/03/2026 Dubai to Manchester Dep: 1430 Arr: 1835

21/02/2026 Edinburgh to Dubai Dep: 2055 Arr: 0805(+1)

22/02/2026 Dubai to Colombo Dep: 1005 Arr: 1555

04/03/2026 Colombo to Dubai Dep: 0955 Arr: 1255

04/03/2026 Dubai to Edinburgh Dep: 1450 Arr: 1905

All flights other than London Heathrow are indirect

Hold Baggage allowance - 23kg

Passport validity

For UK passport holders your passport must be:

• Issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country (check the ‘date of issue’)
• valid for at least 6 months after the day you plan to leave (check the ‘expiry date’)

You must check your passport meets these requirements before you travel. If your passport was issued before 1 October 2018, extra months may have been added to its expiry date.

Travel Insurance

Please ensure that you have adequate personal travel insurance to suit your requirements in place before you travel. Spice Escapes have arranged a scheme with Staysure who are fully authorised and regulated by the FCA (firm reference number 663617) full details of which can be found on the FCA website www.fca.org.uk. For an instant online quotation please click here.

Visas

You need a visa to visit Sri Lanka. Tourist visas are normally valid for 30 days. If you overstay your visa the police could issue a fine or detain you. Follow the guidelines for tourists issued by Sri Lanka’s immigration and emigration department

You should apply for a Sri Lanka ‘Electronic Travel Authorisation’ (ETA) online, at least a few days before departure. You should get your approval notice within 24 hours, and you can use this to enter Sri Lanka.

For more information we recommend visiting:

https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/sri-lanka

Health

Make sure you visit your local health centre at least 2 months before departure, to be advised on any vaccinations needed. Your doctor will also have access to the most up to date information on vaccinations and medical precautions for the country you are about to visit. We recommend bringing a personal first-aid kit containing the following: high factor sun cream, lip salve, moisturiser, plasters, antiseptic cream, insect repellent, cold/flu tablets, throat lozenges, electrolyte powder, aspirin or equivalent, muscle rub, nail scissors, 100mm elastic bandage, knee/ankle supports if needed, and wet wipes. For more information we recommend visiting fitfortravel.scot.nhs.uk

Electricity

We recommend you check if you require an adaptor for your electrical items at:

http://www.worldstandards.eu/electricity/plugs-and-sockets/