Sri Lanka's Well-Kept Secrets
Between royal cities, tea-covered mountains, Indian Ocean beaches and wildlife encounters, discover a multi-faceted Sri Lanka, between culture, nature and relaxation.
Duration
15 days
From
US$2,125/pers.
The spirit of travel
Are you ready to jump on a plane for an unforgettable journey on the island of a thousand colors? Admire the giant Buddhas along your way, meet the clever monkeys at the exit of the temples and go observe hundreds of dolphins in the Indian Ocean.
You will also enjoy the magnificent white sandy beaches where turtles come to lay eggs at night, meet the smiling children in the tea plantation villages...
Opportunities for fun are endless. There is something for everyone! Both young and old will experience an entertaining and warm experience in Sri Lanka, the island of a thousand smiles.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
First moments in Negombo
Aéroport international de Bandaranaike → Colombo
Upon your arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, your driver will welcome you at the airport exit. You then head towards Negombo, the first stop of your Sri Lanka trip.
Located on the west coast, Negombo is also nicknamed the "Little Rome" because of its many churches. Discover the city, its religious buildings and its beaches where fish are dried.
Also take time to soak in the atmosphere of the vegetable and seafood markets.
Depending on available time, you can board for a boat ride along the Dutch canal and enjoy the sunset on the water.
Check-in at your accommodation in Negombo with early check-in included.
Historical Temples Around Kandy
Discover three temples dating from the 14th century, each bearing witness to a particular artistic period and craftsmanship.
The Gadaladeniya Vihara, built in stone, stands out for its wall panels adorned with lions and dancing figures. You then discover Lankatilaka Vihara, fashioned in brick right up to its vault. This double temple has two entrances opening respectively onto a space dedicated to Buddhism and a Hindu place of worship.
The visit continues at the temple of Embekke Devalaya, known for the richness of its carved wooden decorations.
Entrance tickets are to be paid on site.
Check-in at your accommodation in Kandy.
Kandy, Between the Temple of the Tooth and Tropical Gardens
Take a walking tour to discover Kandy, the last royal capital of the island. Start with the Tooth Temple, richly decorated and home to the relic of Buddha's tooth.
Continue with a walk of approximately 4 km around the lake, then explore the vegetable market and its lively atmosphere. Depending on your preferences, you can also attend one of the ceremonies held at the Tooth Temple or, at 5 p.m., a Kandyan dance performance showcasing the festivities of the Esala Perahera.
In the afternoon, your discovery can continue at the Royal Botanical Garden of Peradeniya, situated on the banks of the Mahaweli River. Spanning over 60 hectares, it houses nearly 4,000 plant species, including a royal palm avenue, cannonball trees, an orchid collection, and flower beds.
Entrance tickets are to be paid on site.
From Kandy to Ella through the Sri Lankan mountains
You head towards Nanu Oya, with a recommended stop at Ramboda Falls.
You then board at Nanu Oya station to reach Ella by train, through mountainous terrain, tunnels, bridges and tea plantations. (Train journey from Nanu Oya station to Ella (subject to availability at the time of booking – seats not necessarily next to each other)
Upon arrival in Ella, your driver welcomes you to continue your journey.
Along the way, take time to admire the Ramboda Falls, where rock, water and vegetation meet.
Optionally, visit Nuwara Eliya, also known as "Little England" because of the British influences visible in particular in its architecture. You can discover its town centre and Victoria Park on foot or enjoy a boat ride on Gregory Lake.
Check-in at your accommodation in Ella.
Waterfalls and Nine Arch Bridge in Ella
Start by discovering the Rawana Falls, located at the exit of Ella and gushing from a mountainside. Swimming is possible there, while remaining cautious.
Then continue towards the Nine Arch Bridge, located on the Demodara Loop. Measuring 91 meters long and 24 meters high, the structure comprises nine arches in the heart of a jungle environment and agricultural landscapes.
Behind the railway line, you can also take a walk in the forest and observe the tea plantations below.
Little Adam's Peak and Mahiyanganaya Temple
After your hike, you leave Ella to reach Mahiyanganaya.
Head off for the climb up Little Adam's Peak. You will first cross through tea plantations before reaching the ridge line leading to the summit. Allow approximately 2 hours of hiking to take time to enjoy the panorama.
In Mahiyanganaya, discover the Raja Maha Viharaya, the town's main temple and a stop on an important pilgrimage route. According to tradition, this place would correspond to the Buddha's first visit to Sri Lanka. You will be able to attend a pooja or offer flowers to the Buddha.
Check-in at your accommodation in Mahiyanganaya.
Heading to Passikudah Beaches
You leave Mahiyanganaya to reach the coast and Passikudah.
Discover Passikudah, a bay of golden sand lined with coconut trees for nearly 4 kilometers.
On site, you can choose between snorkeling, catamaran trips or relaxing on a deck chair. Note however that coral occupies part of the beach and can make swimming difficult in certain areas.
Check-in at your accommodation in Passikudah.
Relaxing Day at Passikudah
Take advantage of this relaxation day in Passikudah to give yourself a break during your trip.
A new day of relaxation in Passikudah
This day is dedicated again to relaxation in Pasikudah, before continuing your itinerary across Sri Lanka.
Trincomalee, between colonial heritage and Hindu temples
You leave Passikudah to reach Trincomalee, before continuing to your accommodation in Nilaveli.
Discover Trincomalee and its colonial past. Its important bay has long made the city a strategic port of the Indian Ocean.
Walk through its streets before discovering Fort Frederick, a witness to the various colonial influences.
Then cross the fort to reach the Koneswaram Hindu complex, where you will find several colorful and decorated temples dedicated notably to Ganesha, Kali, Kones and Shiva.
Check-in at your accommodation in Nilaveli.
Snorkeling in Pigeon Island National Park
From Nilaveli, you reach Pigeon Island by boat.
Depart preferably in the morning to discover the Pigeon Island National Park, a small island in the Indian Ocean renowned for the richness of its marine ecosystem.
Various types of coral and many species occupy its waters, among which sea turtles, sharks and colorful fish.
A snorkeling session is included. Bring a bath towel, water-appropriate shoes, as well as food and drinks for your excursion.
The entrance ticket is to be paid on site.
Polonnaruwa, ancient royal capital of Sri Lanka
You leave Nilaveli heading towards Habarana, with the possibility of discovering Polonnaruwa along the way.
Discover Polonnaruwa, the ancient royal capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries. The city spans about ten square kilometers and preserves the ruins of several palaces and temples.
You will notably discover Kalu Gal Vihara, composed of four Buddha statues carved in granite. You will also be able to visit the archaeological museum and stroll near the Parakrama Samudra Lake.
The visit can also be done by bike.
The entrance ticket is to be paid on site.
Check-in at your accommodation in Habarana.
Sigiriya and Minneriya National Park Safari
Early in the morning, set off to discover the archaeological site of Sigirîya, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The Lion Rock, standing 200 meters high, dominates the village.
Accompanied by your guide, you discover the different parts of the site, from the gardens and natural caves to the frescoes of the Maidens and the ruins of Kasyapa's palace at the summit. Good physical fitness is necessary due to the many steps to climb.
In the afternoon, head out for a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park, renowned for its elephant population. You can also observe crocodiles, buffalo, deer, monitor lizards, cormorants, pelicans and many other birds, in landscapes combining marshes, lakes and mountains.
The jeep is included. Entrance tickets are to be paid on site.
Silver Temple and Departure from Sri Lanka
Habarana → Aéroport international de Bandaranaike
You leave Habarana heading towards Katunayaka, then to Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport for your return flight.
On the way, discover Ridi Viharaya, also known as the Silver Temple. This Theravada Buddhist temple dating from the 2nd century BC is located in the village of Ridigama.
According to legend, King Dutugemunu found silver on this site during the construction of the Ruwanweli Seya at Anuradhapura.
You then continue to the Bandaranaike International Airport for your departure and leave Sri Lanka after your journey across the island.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (cancellation insurance and/or repatriation assistance must be taken out by you before departure). We recommend our partner Chapka Assurances to cover you during your trip. This partner will cover any potential hospitalization costs related to Covid-19, trip postponement, stay interruption... You can subscribe here: https://www.chapkadirect.fr/index.php?action=produit&id=824&app=cd_maiglobe
- Beverages during meals
- Lunches and dinners during the tour (except as mentioned)
- Visits and activities not mentioned in the "included services"
- Visa fees - obtain online on the website https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ (visa free for 40 countries, from May 25, 2026. Check online as the situation may change at any time)
- Tips (count approximately 3000 LKR / day for the driver, to be given at the end of the trip according to your satisfaction). Also consider small tips for: baggage porter, at the restaurant, guide for trekking or biking activities, jeep driver during safari etc.
Included
- Private air-conditioned vehicle transportation with English-speaking driver-guide or English-speaking guide throughout your stay in a micro van
- Toll fees, fuel and parking for the vehicle; as well as accommodation and meals for the driver
- Hotels in triple rooms (subject to availability at the time of booking)
- Meal plan according to the hotel table
- A surprise gift upon your arrival, from fair trade
- Government taxes (please note that taxes may vary at any time at the government's discretion, without us being able to notify you in advance. The price will need to be revised accordingly in the event of a tax increase)
- The assistance of our English-speaking team based in Colombo, 7 days a week, 24 hours a day
- For families: baby seat and/or booster seat provided (request when making your reservation) – as well as an activity book
- Train journey from Nanu Oya station to Ella (subject to availability at time of booking – seats not necessarily adjacent)
- Half-day jeep safari in one of these national parks: Kaudulla, Minneriya or Eco Park - Jeep only
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers from the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to Sri Lanka for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend verifying this information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter Sri Lanka, your passport must be valid for at least six months after your entry date into the country and contain at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada must obtain a Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA – Electronic Travel Authorization) before arriving in Sri Lanka. There is no visa exemption on arrival for a tourist stay.
The ETA can be obtained online via the official Sri Lankan government portal and allows a tourist stay of up to 30 days, with the possibility of extending your stay in the country up to a maximum of 90 days with the Sri Lankan Immigration Department.
Authorities may also request:
an exit ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
a confirmation of accommodation reservation.
Sri Lanka Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)
Before your arrival, you must obtain a Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), issued by Sri Lankan authorities.
This electronic visa must be requested online on the official Sri Lankan government website. Required information includes:
passport information
flight and itinerary details
address of your first accommodation in Sri Lanka
personal information and contact details
The ETA is generally issued within a few hours to a few days. It is recommended to submit your application at least 48 hours before departure. The digital confirmation must be presented to immigration on arrival.
Health and Vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter Sri Lanka from the EEA, Switzerland or Canada. However, certain vaccinations are recommended by health authorities, particularly against:
hepatitis A and hepatitis B,
typhoid,
rabies (in case of risk activities or extended stay in rural areas).
Precautions against malaria and dengue may be recommended depending on the regions you visit. Consult a doctor or an international vaccination center before your departure.
Traveling with Children
Minors must have their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay and their own ETA.
In certain European countries, when a minor travels without one of their parents, a territorial exit authorization may be required according to the regulations of their country of residence.
Other Nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should check with the Sri Lankan embassy or consulate in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to have evacuation assistance and medical expense coverage abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partner CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to insurance, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The comprehensive insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that suits you best:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to one.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the full policy detailing all coverage and claim procedures are available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of it, but only the participant is responsible for following the proper procedures for reporting any claim. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their entire trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
Yes, an electronic travel authorization (ETA) is required and must be obtained online before departure (approximately 50 USD, valid for 30 days). A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your entry date is required. Processing is typically fast (within 72 hours). Please verify current requirements on the official Sri Lankan portal.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a bespoke quality trip, budget between 130 and 210 euros per day and per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers and English-speaking guide. International flights (700-1,100 euros return) are additional. Sri Lanka combines beaches, culture, nature and tea in a compact territory.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt every itinerary to travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You adjust every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and depart with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage, which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on the ground throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your next trip to Sri Lanka
Itinerary Designer in the Heart of Sri Lanka, based in Colombo
Sri Lanka is a country that constantly shifts in scenery and atmosphere. You can go from tea plantations to temples, then to the ocean, while always keeping that sense of gentleness in your journey.
— Catherine
