National Geographic Journeys
Sri Lanka
Group / Max 15
Group Tour
Colombo To Negombo – 12 Days
Your 12-day Sri Lankan adventure commences in the vibrant city of Colombo, blending relaxation with anticipation for the journey ahead. The tour swiftly moves to the natural allure of Wilpattu National Park, known for its diverse wildlife including elusive leopards, offering an immersive off-road experience. In Anuradhapura, delve into ancient history at the UNESCO World Heritage site, with an optional cycling tour to enhance your exploration.
The journey continues through the rich cultural tapestry of Sri Lanka. Experience rural life in Habarana via a traditional bull cart ride, canoe on a tranquil lake, and relish local cuisine. Marvel at the Sigiriya fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple's Buddhist artistry. In Kandy, witness the revered Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and explore the Royal Botanic Gardens. The trip also includes a scenic drive through tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya and wildlife encounters in Horton Plains and Udawalawe National Parks, culminating in the coastal charm of Negombo, reflecting a diverse and enriching Sri Lankan experience.
WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS AND CONSERVATION EFFORTS: The journey begins with an off-road safari in Wilpattu National Park, home to diverse wildlife, including leopards. At Udawalawe National Park, experience a jeep safari, observing elephant herds and visiting the Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation centre for orphaned elephants. This offers a unique insight into the conservation of these majestic creatures.
CULTURAL EXPLORATION IN ANCIENT CITIES: Explore Anuradhapura, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in history, and take an optional cycling tour of its ruins. In Kandy, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and witness a cultural show. Discover the Royal Botanic Gardens of Peradeniya and engage with the Sthree Craft Shop and Café, a project supporting women and youth.
NATURAL BEAUTY AND LOCAL EXPERIENCES: Traverse Horton Plains National Park, marvelling at the stunning World's End viewpoint. Experience Sri Lanka's tea culture in Nuwara Eliya, with a visit to a tea plantation and the option for high tea at the Grand Hotel. Enjoy traditional cooking demonstrations and taste local delicacies at the Big Game Camping site.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition. a
National Geographic Journeys
Light Moderate
Casual
Discover Sri Lanka's enchantment, from ancient cities and adorned Buddhist temples to aromatic spice gardens and lush tea plantations. Enjoy world-famous Ceylon tea and explore rich biodiversity on national park safaris. Experience the tranquillity of rural vistas, the history of traditional villages, and the vibrant fusion of history and tradition in this magical journey.
Begin your Sri Lankan adventure upon landing in Colombo. An arrival transfer awaits to take you to your accommodations for the night. Unpack and unwind, getting ready for the journey ahead.
Accommodations: The Steuart by Citrus (or similar)
Kick off the day with an intriguing exploration of a coconut plantation, a significant contributor to Sri Lanka's economy. Afterwards, we'll head to Wilpattu National Park, a haven for diverse wildlife, including leopards. Engage in an off-road adventure alongside an expert, learning about local conservation efforts and challenges. Keep a sharp eye out for a variety of animals as we traverse the park. Overnight is at a safari camp near the park.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Embark on a journey to Anuradhapura, a city steeped in sacred and ancient history. Spend the day uncovering the historical marvels of this UNESCO World Heritage site, with its palaces, gardens, Buddhist temples, and monasteries. If you're up for an adventure, opt for a guided cycling tour around the ruins. Optional Activities:Cycle Anuradhapura
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Palm Garden Village (or similar)
The vibrant village of Habarana is our next stop. Here, we'll delve into rural life, traversing lush fields and rice paddies via traditional bull cart. Stroll through town and engage with the locals. Enjoy a scenic canoe trip on a serene lake followed by a lunch featuring regional delicacies. Later, we continue to Dambulla for an overnight stay.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Accommodations: Thilanka Resorts & Spa (or similar)
Today we explore the iconic Sigiriya fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage site, perched atop a granite peak. Ascend the steep stairway to discover beautiful gardens, caves, monasteries, and palaces adorned with frescoes. From the summit, enjoy stunning vistas of the encompassing jungle. Return to Dambulla for some leisure time.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Thilanka Resorts & Spa (or similar)
and statues. Afterwards, we visit a spice garden in Matale to learn about the medicinal uses of local spices. We then proceed to Kandy, where we tour the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, housing a revered relic of Buddha. This evening, enjoy a cultural show featuring traditional music.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Peradeniya, once the royal family's exclusive retreat. Later, enjoy a demonstration at the Sthree Craft Shop and Café, a G Adventures–supported initiative aimed at empowering women and youth. Sample local teas with scones and pastries. Spend your free time walking around Kandy Lake or indulge in an Ayurvedic massage. Optional Activities:Ayurvedic Hospital Visit
Meals Included: Breakfast
Journey through picturesque landscapes to Nuwara Eliya, in the midst of Sri Lankan tea territory. Learn about tea cultivation and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea at a plantation. Tour the charming town, known for its tea bush-covered roads and British-Scottish heritage. Opt for a high tea experience at the historic Grand Hotel. Optional Activities:High Tea at the Grand Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Grand Hotel (or similar)
Depart early to explore Horton Plains National Park's cloud forests and grasslands. After a picnic breakfast, take in panoramic views from the World’s End. Then travel to our camp at Udawalawe National Park. Participate in a cooking demonstration with our camp chef, focused on local delicacies.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Big Game Camping (or similar)
Embark on a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park, a sanctuary for elephant herds. Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife, including water buffalo, jackals, and deer. Later, visit the Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation centre for orphaned elephants, where you can learn about conservation efforts.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Accommodations: Big Game Camping (or similar)
Proceed to the port town of Negombo. Experience remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence in the architecture of the old quarter. Spend the day leisurely, opting to visit the Old Dutch Fort, enter one of the town’s Catholic churches, or enjoy a beach walk.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Accommodations: Jetwing Sea Hotel (or similar)
Proceed to the port town of Negombo. Experience remnants of Portuguese, Dutch, and British influence in the architecture of the old quarter. Spend the day leisurely, opting to visit the Old Dutch Fort, enter one of the town’s Catholic churches, or enjoy a beach walk.
Meals Included: Breakfast
This tour is provided through a partnership between National Geographic Expedition and G Adventures, merging enjoyable, interactive exploration with significant interactions with diverse cultures and individuals. It offers a blend of leisure, options, and activities, all while ensuring the organized and safe experience of traveling in a small group.
Age Requirement: 12+
All travelers under age 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
What can you expect when you travel on this tour?
A dedicated Chief Experience Officer and knowledgeable local guides
A group of usually 16 or fewer Travelers
Comfortable and convenient accommodations in each destination
Included activities as indicated in itineraries
Optional activities may be available for an additional cost as indicated in itineraries
Opportunities for on-your-own exploration as indicated in itineraries
Included meals as per itineraries
100% guaranteed departures
Roommate match for Solo Travelers at no additional fee
My Own Room option for Solo Travelers wanting their own room (additional fee applies)
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
EXPERIENCES
TRAVEL INSURANCE
A minimum level of medical and emergency travel insurance is required in order to travel with National Geographic Journeys. Details are outlined in our Terms and Conditions and you will not be permitted to join the group until you have provided evidence of adequate travel insurance. Please read the trip details to learn more about recommended policy options.
MY OWN ROOM
During your trip, sometimes it's just more convenient and comfortable to have your own room. That's why we offer the My Own Room option - a single room all to yourself.
My Own Room Option: From £3,399
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
