Private Travel
Sri Lanka
Private
Private Tour
Colombo to Colombo – 12 Days
Sri Lanka Heritage, Hills and Coast Tour is a 12 day luxury tour that takes you to the island’s ancient sites, hill country and coastline. Start in Colombo with a guided tour of historic buildings, temples and markets. Travel to the Cultural Triangle to see Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa and the incredible Sigiriya Rock Fortress. These ancient cities tell the story of Sri Lanka’s royal past and Buddhist traditions.
Then unwind on the calm beaches of Passekudah where clear blue water and soft sand is the perfect setting for relaxation. Head into the cool hills of Haputale to stay at Tea Trails, a luxury retreat in the middle of green tea plantations. End your journey in Galle where you’ll walk along the old fort walls and explore colonial buildings, museums and art. This tour has the best of Sri Lanka — culture, nature, history and relaxation — all carefully planned for a rich and memorable travel experience.
SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS CLIMB: Sigiriya, an ancient fortress rising above the jungle. Explore stone steps, colourful frescoes and water gardens. From the top enjoy wide views of forests and villages. One of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks combining nature, history and architecture in one experience.
TEA TRAILS: Stay in a luxury bungalow surrounded by tea plantations in Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. Learn how tea is made from picking to brewing. Walk through green hills, fresh air and taste some of the world’s best Ceylon tea. A peaceful and scenic break in the heart of nature.
GALLE FORT HERITAGE: Explore Galle Fort’s cobbled streets and old stone walls. See Dutch churches, museums, art galleries and craft shops. Learn about the city’s colonial past and cultural mix. Watch the sunset from the ramparts as the ocean waves crash below — a perfect mix of history and coastal charm.
PASSEKUDAH BEACHES: Relax on the calm, golden beaches of Passekudah. Swim in warm, shallow water and enjoy peaceful surroundings. Try water sports like paddleboarding or snorkelling or simply rest under a palm tree. Passekudah is perfect for families, couples or anyone looking to unwind by the Indian Ocean.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
This 12-day luxury tour explores Sri Lanka’s ancient cities, tea-covered hills, and peaceful beaches. From Colombo and the Cultural Triangle to Passekudah and Galle, experience sacred temples, rich history, and relaxing coastal stays — all carefully designed for comfort, discovery, and unforgettable moments across this beautiful island.
After you arrive, your private guide will take you on a short city tour to help you settle in and get a feel for the country. Walk through the colonial Fort area, enjoy the sea breeze at Galle Face Green, and explore the streets of Colombo. You’ll see old buildings next to new and daily life in action. Visit markets, try local snacks, and take in the tropical surroundings. Overnight at a city hotel ready for your Sri Lankan adventure.
Today you’ll see more of Colombo’s cultural and historical sites. Start with the National Museum to see Sri Lanka’s ancient kingdoms and royal artefacts. Wander through the Pettah market where locals shop for spices, clothes and daily goods. Visit the peaceful Seema Malaka Temple built on a lake and enjoy the calm. Colombo is a mix of old and new, from colonial churches to modern art galleries. Try kottu and hoppers and experience the street life before returning to your hotel for the night.
Leave Colombo and head to the Cultural Triangle in central Sri Lanka. Visit Anuradhapura, one of the island’s first ancient capitals. See the huge stupas, the sacred Bodhi tree and the remains of the ancient palaces. Then go to Polonnaruwa, another former capital known for its well-preserved ruins. Walk among stone temples, royal baths and giant Buddha statues carved into rock. These historical sites will give you a deeper understanding of Sri Lanka’s Buddhist roots and royal past. Overnight at a hotel in the Cultural Triangle, reflecting on the day’s discoveries in this heritage rich region.
In the morning visit Mihintale, a peaceful hill where Buddhism was introduced to Sri Lanka. Climb the stone steps lined with trees to see ancient stupas, statues and old monasteries. Enjoy the views over the forests. Later return to Anuradhapura to visit more temples and historical sites. Alternatively go for a safari at Minneriya National Park.If you visit between July and October you might see the Great Elephant Gathering — hundreds of wild elephants in one place. Whether you choose culture or wildlife today is a rich experience that shows two sides of Sri Lanka’s soul.
Start the day in Polonnaruwa where you’ll see ancient stone temples, palace ruins and giant Buddha statues. These impressive remains will give you an idea of how grand the city was during Sri Lanka’s medieval period. Then go to Sigiriya to climb the famous rock fortress. As you ascend see ancient frescoes and reach the top to enjoy the views. In the afternoon meet elephants by a quiet lake where they often bathe and feed. End the day at Dambulla Cave Temple filled with beautiful Buddha statues and colourful murals inside rock caves. Overnight at a hotel.
Drive through the hills to Kandy, the cultural capital of Sri Lanka. En route stop at a spice garden to see how cinnamon, cloves and cardamom are grown and used. In Kandy visit the Temple of the Tooth where a sacred relic of the Buddha is kept. Attend a puja ceremony to see prayers and music. Walk through the local market and later visit the Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya filled with orchids and palm trees. In the evening enjoy a private dance show featuring traditional Sri Lankan drumming, costumes and fire walking.
Today you head deeper into Sri Lanka’s Hill Country. Arrive at Tea Trails, a luxury stay in old tea planters’ bungalows surrounded by rolling hills and green tea fields. Visit a working tea factory to see how tea is picked, dried and packed — and enjoy a tasting session. The rest of the day is free. Go for a gentle walk through the plantations, read a book by the fire or unwind by the pool. The cool fresh air and peaceful surroundings make this the perfect place to pause and enjoy the quiet beauty of the mountains.
Full day at leisure in the Hill Country. Wake up to cool mountain air and birdsong. You can take a guided nature walk through the tea fields to learn more about the plants, birds and local life. Back at the bungalow relax with a fresh cup of tea on the veranda or enjoy a long lunch with views. Spend time by the pool or curl up with a book indoors. The day is slow and relaxing giving you time to unwind. In the evening enjoy a delicious dinner made with local ingredients prepared by the resident chef.
Leave the hills and drive to Tangalle on Sri Lanka’s south coast. Check into Amanwella, a luxury resort beside a quiet palm-lined beach. Spend the afternoon relaxing by your private plunge pool or walking on the sand. Join a market visit with a chef and learn to cook a Sri Lankan meal full of spices and flavours. You can also choose optional activities such as whale watching, nature walks or surfing. For wildlife lovers a visit to Udawalawe National Park can be arranged. See wild elephants and enjoy the natural beauty of the lowland landscapes.
Drive west along the coast to the historic city of Galle. En route see fishing villages and ocean views. Arrive at Amangalla, a beautiful hotel inside the old Dutch Fort. Explore Galle’s cobbled streets, learn about its colonial past and visit the lighthouse, museums and churches. Discover the traditional art of lace-making and see local crafts. Galle is a mix of old-world charm and modern touches with stylish cafés and boutique shops. Return to Amangalla for a relaxing evening. Galle is one of Sri Lanka’s most memorable stops.
Spend your final full day enjoying more of Galle. Start with a private walking tour inside the Fort, stopping at hidden corners, quiet courtyards and spots with sea views. Visit art galleries, craft shops and cafés or simply stroll the ramparts where locals gather to watch the sunset. You can also take short trips nearby — visit a turtle hatchery, go on a boat ride through mangroves or see how traditional Sri Lankan masks are made. Return to Amangalla for some time to relax. The day is yours to explore, unwind and enjoy the slower pace of coastal life.
After breakfast depart for Colombo. If time permits visit the home of Geoffrey Bawa, Sri Lanka’s famous architect. His beautiful home and garden is a tropical modernist gem and a peaceful place to visit before you leave. Depending on your flight schedule you may also have some time to explore more of Colombo or have lunch at a café. A private transfer will take you to the airport in time for your departure. As you depart look back on the temples, tea hills, beaches and warm smiles that made this trip so special.
Inspired by Sri Lanka's rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty, "Sri Lanka's Historic Splendour & Serene Beaches" tour was designed to offer an immersive exploration of the island's most captivating sights and experiences.
From the ancient majesty of Sigiriya Rock Fortress to the tranquil beaches of Passekudah, this tour invites travellers to delve into the country's unique heritage and breathtaking landscapes.
Perfect for those interested in a diverse range of activities, nature, culture, and wildlife, it promises an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka's most cherished destinations.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
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.
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.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
