en
- Boutique
- 21-day trip
- From €7,875 p.p.
Sri Lanka and Maldives trip | Round trip Sri Lanka and Maldives
During this 21-day tour, you will pass by the most beautiful places in Sri Lanka. Discover the historic Galle Fort that has witnessed four hundred years of history, from Arab traders to the adventurous Portuguese and Dutch. Walk through the tea plantations near Ella. Stay at a unique eco lodge in the Gal Oya National park and go on a boat safari. Climb the Pidurangala rock formation for breathtaking views of the famous Sigiriya Lion Rock. End the trip at a delightful resort in the Maldives. Dine at the exclusive H2O underwater restaurant or picnic on a private island surrounded by crystal clear waters.
Travel programme
Travel overview
- Day 1 Flight to Sri Lanka
- Day 2 Arrival in Sri Lanka
- Day 3 Historic Galle Fort
- Day 4 Spiritual tour of the Galle area
- Day 5 Galle – Ella
- Day 6 Ella area
- Day 7 Ella – Gal Oya
- Day 8 Boat safari and jungle cookery course
- Day 9 Gal Oya – Sigiriya
- Day 10 Sri Lanka: cultural
- Day 11 Sigiriya Lion Rock
- Day 12 Cotton industry
- Day 13 – 19 Beach finale in the Maldives
- Day 20 Departure from the Maldives
- Day 21 Arrival
Arrival in Sri Lanka
As the locals say:“Ayubowan!” We warmly welcome you to Sri Lanka! Upon arrival, you’ll have a Meet & Greet with our local agent and be taken to your accommodation by private transfer. You can check in straight away and will have the chance to acclimatise.
Later in the afternoon, a special excursion is on the programme: Rashan’s Walk. On this walk, you’ll explore the city of Colombo with a local guide. He’ll take you to the hidden neighbourhoods that tourists rarely visit, as well as to well-known spots such as Galle Green Face, where you’ll enjoy delicious street food. Street food is usually discouraged for tourists due to hygiene concerns, but our guide Rashan (or a colleague) knows exactly where it’s safe to eat.
Included:
• Meet & Greet with the local agent
• Private transfer to the hotel
• Early check-in
• Excursion: Rashan’s Walk
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Historic Galle Fort
Today, you’ll set off by private transfer to the historic city of Galle. This is an absolute must-see on the island. There are places in the world that feel like ‘living in a completely different era’, and Galle Fort is one of those places. Imagine cobbled streets that have witnessed four hundred years of history, from Arab traders to the adventurous Portuguese and the vibrant Dutch, with their colonial houses and red roofs. Galle is an impressive town on the Indian Ocean, which is undergoing rapid development. It’s a place where you’ll have the chance to see a unique part of the island: families have often lived there for generations, and Muslims and Buddhists live side by side. In the coming years, the atmosphere in Galle will change, as it becomes a place with more and more boutique accommodation, tourist shops and restaurants.
Take a stroll through Galle Fort with your guide, who will tell you all about the ins and outs of this historic place.
Included:
• Private transfer to hotel
• Excursion: Galle Fort walk
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Spiritual tour around Galle
Galle Fort is gradually becoming a major tourist attraction, resulting in groups of travellers arriving there. Of course, the Fort is a highlight and a place you should definitely visit, but there is so much more to explore! That’s why, before you set off to explore the Fort with your guide, you’ll embark on a spiritual journey outside Galle. A tuk-tuk ride of about 20 minutes takes us through lush green rice fields, free of tourists and with just a few villagers harvesting the crops or chatting with their neighbours.
Once we arrive at the site, we’ll climb the steps to the Yatagala Temple – which means ‘beneath the rocks’. Your guide, who is a Buddhist himself, will take you on a spiritual journey to purify your body and mind of negative thoughts, and to pay homage to the Buddha. This symbolic act, practised by every Sri Lankan Buddhist, brings a sense of happiness, peace and solace. You’ll feel awestruck by the large statue of the Buddha as you offer the traditional Pichcha Flowers. Other rituals you will experience include burning incense, lighting lamps and offering water to a sacred Bo Tree – your guide will tell you more about the significance of these rituals.
Included:
• Excursion: Spiritual tour to Yatagala Temple
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Galle - Ella
The next destination is Ella, and on the way here you will visit an elephant rehabilitation centre. Here, young elephants up to 5 years old are taken care of who have been orphaned. Once they can look after themselves again, they are released back into the wild.
Included:
• Private transfer to accommodation
• Excursion: Visit the Elephant Transit Home en route
• Overnight stay on a half-board basis
Ella area
In the morning, a gentle hike to the summit of Little Adams Peak is on the programme. This is a relaxing walk of about an hour with stunning views of the valley.
You will then visit a local tea plantation with your guide. Here, you will learn all about tea and the processes it undergoes before it can be sold in supermarkets.
Included:
• Excursion: Walk to Little Adam’s Peak
• Excursion: Visit to a tea plantation
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Ella - Gal Oya
Today you’ll be heading to Gal Oya National Park. Gal Oya is an undiscovered gem in Sri Lanka. A national park surrounded by water and islands, where a unique experience awaits you. It is rustic but has everything you need: beautifully furnished accommodation, an excellent team of local guides and some of the finest cuisine to be found in the country. However, you should bear in mind that you will be cut off from the outside world due to the lack of mobile phone signal.
In the afternoon or evening, you’ll go on a nature walk with the lodge’s naturalist.
Included:
• Private transfer to the lodge
• Excursion: Nature walk with a naturalist
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Boating safari and jungle cooking course
Today you have the opportunity to experience a boat safari on Lake Gal Oya, the largest in Sri Lanka. A wonderful chance to observe wildlife from the beautiful Lake Gal Oya: including crocodiles, deer, elephants and many rare and endemic bird species. This experience is the only one in Sri Lanka that allows you to see wildlife from the water. You might be lucky enough to spot elephants swimming between the islands or at the edge of the lake.
Later in the day, there’s also a jungle cookery class on the programme with the lodge’s chef.
Included:
• Excursion: Boat safari
• Excursion: Jungle cookery course
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Gal Oya - Sigiriya
Today, you will drive on to Kumbukgaha Villa. On the way, you will visit Polonnaruwa , which was once the site of Sri Lanka's second capital. Polonnaruwa is now the timeless reflection of the country's magnificent history. Its picturesque landscapes dotted with sites of archaeological value are all well-preserved and located on its eastern shore. Along the way, you will visit some highlights.
Included:
• Private transfer to the hotel, including a visit to Polonnaruwa
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Sri Lanka cultural
A fantastic climb is planned for you this morning! You’ll be amazed by the stunning views from the top of this rock. Visit a massive rock formation a few kilometres north of the marvellous Sigiriya Rock Fortress – Pidurangala!
Later, you’ll visit the archaeological monastery of Ritigala. The ruins of Ritigala lie hidden deep in the jungle, and the place feels like an undiscovered world, far removed from Sri Lanka’s well-known cultural sites!
Includes:
• Excursion: Climb the Pidurangala rock formation
• Excursion: The sacred grounds of Ritigala
• Overnight stay including breakfast
Sigiriya lion rock
Today you’ll visit the magnificent rock fortress of Sigiriya! You’ll set off early today to beat the crowds, so you’ll arrive at the entrance around 7.00 am. That way, you’ll avoid the crowds and enjoy a pleasant climb, without the midday heat. What’s more, as a keen photographer myself, I’d like to share with you that this is the best time to take some fantastic photos!
Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, is a rare gem amongst Sri Lanka’s many cultural treasures. The site was the domain of King Kashyapa, who set out to build an impregnable fortress and a heavenly abode within it. On the arid plains of Sigiriya, the climb of 1,200 steps is gruelling, but the view is absolutely worth it! On the way to the top, you can admire the famous Sigiriya frescoes. The whole Sigiriya experience takes around 1½ to 3 hours, depending on your pace.
You will then drive on to your next accommodation.
Included:
• Excursion: Climb Sigiriya Lion Rock
• Private transfer to the hotel
• Overnight stay on a half-board basis
Cotton Industry
During the day, visit the local cotton industry in Dunagaha by tuktuk, after which the afternoon is free to spend at the hotel.
Included:
• Excursion: visit the cotton industry in Dunagaha by tuk-tuk
• Accommodation on a half-board basis
Beach getaway in the Maldives
Today, it is time to say goodbye to one tropical island and move on to the next. At the end of the morning, you will be picked up by your private driver who will take you to Colombo airport. From here, you will fly on to the capital of the idyllic islands of the Maldives. Once you arrive in Malé, you will fly by seaplane to your resort.
Included:
• Private transfer to the airport
• International flight to Malé
• Seaplane transfer to the resort
• Accommodation including breakfast
Accommodations
Taru Villas - The Lake Lodge
Located on a quiet residential avenue in the heart of Colombo, Lake Lodge is one of the first accredited tourist accommodations in Sri Lanka. Totally renovated with a creative flair, this is genuinely a 'home away from home'. Lake Lodge features 12 stylish double rooms with en-suite bathrooms,...
Located on a quiet residential avenue in the heart of Colombo, Lake Lodge is one of the first accredited tourist accommodations in Sri Lanka. Totally renovated with a creative flair, this is genuinely a 'home away from home'. Lake Lodge has 12 stylish double en-suite rooms equipped with all modern conveniences. Notably, the ambience of this accommodation makes it a special stay!
Your stay: 1 night
The Fort Printers
Situated in an 18th-century mansion, Hotel Fort Printers has been restored into a small and elegant hotel. Originally, the hotel consisted of five suites. But after the addition of two historic villas in 2013, it now has 13 suites. The hotel is known for its understated elegance, personalised service...
Situated in an 18th-century mansion, Hotel Fort Printers has been restored into a small and elegant hotel. Originally, the hotel consisted of five suites. But after the addition of two historic villas in 2013, it now has 13 suites. The hotel is known for its understated elegance, personalised service and friendly atmosphere.
Your stay: 2 nights
98 Acres Resort & Spa
98 Acres Resort & Spa owes its distinctive name to the land on which it is built; a picturesque tea plantation on 98 acres of land. Located in fascinating Ella, this colonial-era Ceylon accommodation looked even bigger. Owned and managed by a Brit and known under...
98 Acres Resort & Spa owes its distinctive name to the land on which it is built; a picturesque tea plantation on 98 acres of land. Located in fascinating Ella, this colonial-era Ceylon accommodation looked even bigger. Owned and managed by a Brit and known as 'Saltherland Tea Estate', this boutique hotel is an excellent choice with an ideal location among the tea fields. A fine quality tea is still being produced. The focus at this accommodation is on a pure eco-friendly and sustainable experience!
Your stay: 2 nights
Gal Oya Lodge
Gal Oya Lodge is more than just an eco-lodge in Sri Lanka. It is a philosophy, something that can be seen in every detail of its design. It is an accommodation that brings you closer to nature while protecting the environment. The concept lives in every detail, from the undisturbed lush forest surrounding the...
Gal Oya Lodge is more than just an eco-lodge in Sri Lanka. It is a philosophy, something that can be seen in every detail of its design. It is an accommodation that brings you closer to nature while protecting the environment. The concept lives in every detail, from the undisturbed lush forest surrounding the mountains to the natural materials used such as cajun, wood and illuk - all used to create the bungalows. And of course, the accommodation uses sustainable technology and recycling to save valuable natural resources, such as water and energy, as much as possible.
Your stay: 2 nights
Kumbukgaha Villa
Nestled in the peaceful rural surroundings of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Kumbukgaha Villa is a rustic hideaway ideally located where wild elephants, elusive civet cats and peacocks roam freely. The accommodation comprises four villas and a bungalow with conveniences like air-conditioning, fans,...
Tucked away in the peaceful rural surroundings of Sigiriya in Sri Lanka, Kumbukgaha Villa is a rustic hideaway ideally located where wild elephants, elusive civet cats and peacocks roam freely. The accommodation comprises four villas and a bungalow with conveniences like air conditioning, fans, mosquito nets, tea and coffee makers, ironing facilities, hairdryers and complimentary toiletries. Guests can enjoy Sri Lankan meals in the open-plan dining pavilion. The hotel also offers a lovely swimming pool where guests can relax. Local attractions include Sigiriya World Heritage Site, Pidurangala rock temple, historic Dambulla cave temple and Minneriya National Park.
Your stay: 2 nights
Pledge Scape
Pledge Scape is located on the golden stretch of beach in the renowned city of Negombo. The Scape is the new addition to the chain of Pledge Hotels & Resorts. It is located on a quiet beach between sun and sand, surrounded by a gentle whispering breeze.
The hotel's rooms are equipped with a...
Pledge Scape is located on the golden stretch of beach in the renowned city of Negombo. The Scape is the new addition to the chain of Pledge Hotels & Resorts. It is located on a quiet beach between sun and sand, surrounded by a gentle whispering breeze.
Rooms at the hotel feature a work desk, air conditioning, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bathtub and free toiletries. Some rooms at Pledge Scape also have a terrace.
Your stay: 2 nights
Reethi Faru Resort
Reethi Faru Resort - the new holiday escape in the Indian Ocean - is located in southern Raa Atoll on the cosy island of Filaidhoo. The island is just six hundred by three hundred and fifty metres and offers a beautiful reef thirty to eighty metres offshore.
Unwind in one of the 150...
Reethi Faru Resort - the new holiday escape in the Indian Ocean - is located in southern Raa Atoll on the cosy island of Filaidhoo. The island is just six hundred by three hundred and fifty metres and offers a beautiful reef thirty to eighty metres offshore.
Unwind in one of 150 traditional, luxurious Maldivian villas, complete with jacuzzi, nestled in our tropical gardens, on the beach or on stilts above the turquoise waters. To explore the mysteries of the vast Indian Ocean and its magnificent reef, there is our dive centre to show you the most awe-inspiring underwater world. You can relax in the rejuvenating wellness spa or embark on a new fitness regime in the fully equipped sports complex.
The resort features 6 restaurants and 6 bars with a cosy atmosphere and delicious food, live barbecue and international boutique cuisine, cocktails, fresh fruit smoothies and fine wines.
Your stay: 7 nights
Destinations
Colombo
Colombo, Sri Lanka's capital and largest city, is a city that travellers have mostly avoided for years. The city has a reputation for being boring, but today it has so much to offer! Unlike Jakarta or Bangkok, it is an orderly city and therefore easy to explore. Traffic is as in any Asian capital - chaotic. But, once you have had some time to get used to this and can proverbially 'look past', you will see a brilliant side of the country.
Sri Lanka
Galle
Galle is a beautiful colonial town in Ceylon. After the Portuguese, it was the Dutch who made Galle an important port in the 17th century, protected by a large fort, now listed on UNESCO's World Heritage List. Old and (partly) crumbling, it was the fort walls that protected much of the city in 2004 when the tsunami struck. Still, thousands died, especially at the old bus station just outside the fort. Inside the walls, today's Galle is an atmospheric town filled with culture, quaint shops, bars and boutique accommodation.
Ella
Resting on the southern edge of the picturesque Hill Country lies the small village of Ella. Known for its exceptional natural surroundings, wonderfully tranquil atmosphere, and pleasant climate, Ella is the ideal base from which to explore the idyllic green surroundings filled with tea plantations and lush forests. With only a handful of essential shops and tourist amenities, Ella has managed to maintain its rural Sri Lankan charm well.
Gal Oya National Park
Located in eastern Sri Lanka around the island's largest reservoir, Senanayake Samudraya, the Gal Oya National Park is an important catchment area. Wild, remote and surprisingly quiet, this is the only park in Sri Lanka where it is possible to take a boat safari, giving you close-up encounters with swimming elephants. Traditional jeep safaris and a wide range of hiking trails are also offered. Explore the lush forest, scrubland, grassland and beautiful mountains, and spot up to 32 species of mammals, including wild boar, sloth bears, water buffalo, axisher deer and even the elusive Sri Lankan leopard. Get unique and specialised insight into the area by taking a guided walk with the indigenous Veddha people who live here. Visitors will also enjoy the spectacular, brightly coloured birdlife and extensive luxury amenities (including a swimming pool) at the park's lodges.
Sigiriya
Sigiriya is a place in the central Matale district, close to the city of Dambulla, Sri Lanka. The name Sigiriya usually refers to a historical site of great archaeological significance, namely the huge rock nearly 200 metres high. According to the ancient Sri Lankan chronicle, this site was selected by King Kasyapa (477 - 495 CE) for his new capital. He built his palace on top of this rock and decorated the sides of the rock with colourful frescoes. Welcome to this UNESCO site, also known as the Lion Rock!
Negombo
This bustling fishing village on Sri Lanka's west coast (and close to Bandaranaika International Airport) has a fairly turbulent colonial history, involving Dutch, Portuguese and British trade. The wild cinnamon that grew in the region was described as 'the best in the universe'. You can see the remnants of this colonial period in the city's strong Catholic influences. The Negombo Lagoon and its many canals offer beautiful spots for bird watching. The city's old quarter is well worth a visit; the community is friendly and welcoming.
Gampaha District
Gampaha District is located in the western province of Sri Lanka, north of the bustling city of Colombo. It is one of 25 districts in the country and the second most populous district in Sri Lanka after Colombo district. Gampaha has a picturesque west coast, historic towns and spectacular landscapes. Visitors can look out for the old Henarathgoda railway station, one of the oldest stations in Sri Lanka and an archaeological protected monument in Gampaha town; explore the 100-year-old Henarathgoda Botanical Garden, where the island's first rubber tree was planted; and admire the Asgiriya Rajamaha Vihara, an ancient Buddhist temple. Other highlights include the Yatawatte Purana Vihara temple, Wathumulla Ketawala Ambalama and Ketawala Anicut.
Maldives
The Maldives, a tropical paradise in the Indian Ocean, consist of 26 atolls and over 1,000 coral islands. This archipelago is renowned for its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity. Each island offers a unique blend of natural beauty and luxury, with countless resorts ranging from traditional bungalows to modern overwater villas. The underwater world is a highlight, ideal for diving and snorkelling, where colourful coral reefs and exotic marine life such as manta rays, whale sharks and sea turtles can be admired.
The Maldives also offer a range of activities, from water sports and fishing trips to romantic sunset cruises. The local culture is fascinating, with a blend of South Asian, Arabic and African influences, which is reflected in the music, dance and cuisine. The climate is tropical, with warm temperatures all year round, making it an ideal destination for a sun holiday. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, the Maldives offer an unforgettable experience in truly breathtaking surroundings.
Raa Atoll
Raa Atoll, also known as Northern Maalhosmadulu atoll, is part of the breathtaking Maldives archipelago and is located in the Indian Ocean. This atoll consists of a large number of ring-shaped volcanic formations with sheltered inland lakes of varying sizes, protected from the open sea by a sturdy reef. This idyllic paradise has white-sand beaches surrounded by lush tropical vegetation and by crystal-clear turquoise waters. Earlier, Raa Atoll was off-limits to tourists, but since the early 1990s it has opened its doors to the tourism industry. Spend relaxing days lazing on idyllic beaches, explore the spectacular coral reef and enjoy an array of world-class water activities.
Sri Lanka and Maldives trip | Round trip Sri Lanka and Maldives
We offer the described trip from €7,875 per person.
The tour price is an estimate and is subject to factors including availability and travel dates.
Included
• International flight Colombo – Malé – Colombo
• Accommodation in excellent and distinctive lodges and hotels
• All meals as specified in the ‘itinerary’
• All excursions as listed in the ‘itinerary’, including a visit to Galle Fort, a boat safari and a climb up Sigiriya Lion Rock
• All necessary private transfers as mentioned
• Meet & Greet on arrival
• Entrance fees where applicable
• National Geographic or similar travel guide
• Administration fees (€50 per booking)
Positive impact of your trip:
• Contribution of €50 per person towards a positive impact via the Avila Foundation
• Visit to the Elephant Transit Home
Not included
• International flights to and from Sri Lanka
• Travel and/or cancellation insurance
• Visa fees
• Tourist tax (where applicable)
• Seat reservations
• Personal expenses/tips
• Any departure tax when leaving the destination
• Meals not specified and optional excursions
• Contribution to the Calamity Fund (€2.50 per booking)
• SGR contribution (€5 per person)