Journey North. Discover a Different Sri Lanka.

19 Nights / 20 Days

Overview

Travel beyond Sri Lanka’s familiar routes on a journey that reveals the distinctive character of the island’s north. From ancient kingdoms and wildlife encounters to Jaffna’s colourful Hindu heritage, local markets and northern flavours, the tour brings together culture, nature and authentic local experiences.

Continue through the east coast and Cultural Triangle before travelling into the central highlands and onwards to the south, combining iconic highlights with places less explored. With scenic train journeys, wildlife safaris, historic cities, coastal stays and time to experience each destination, this is a more complete and different way to discover Sri Lanka.

Tour Highlights

Highlights
  • Ancient cities of Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa
  • Wilpattu, Minneriya and Yala 4WD wildlife safaris
  • Jaffna cultural and heritage experiences
  • Trincomalee and the northeast coast
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Kandy and the Temple of the Tooth Relic
  • Nuwara Eliya and Ceylon tea country
  • Scenic Nanu Oya–Ella train journey, subject to availability
  • Nine Arches Bridge and Little Adam’s Peak
  • UNESCO-listed Galle Fort
  • Sea turtle conservation experience
  • Colombo city tour and dinner at the Colombo Lotus Tower

Land Only – International flights are not included. If you require assistance with flight arrangements, please contact us for available options.

Goldi Sands, Negombo

Cloud Nine Lanka Resort, Wilpattu

Jetwing Jaffna

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon

Amaya Lake, Dambulla

Amaya Hills, Kandy

Araliya Green Hills, Nuwara Eliya

Newburgh Ella – The Tea Factory Resort

DoubleTree by Hilton, Weerawila

Sheraton Kosgoda Turtle Beach Resort

Cinnamon Lakeside, Colombo

Daily breakfast and dinner as specified in the itinerary, including a memorable dinner at the Colombo Lotus Tower.

Meet and assistance on arrival, services of an English-speaking chauffeur guide / National guide as applicable, sightseeing and experiences specified in the itinerary, and all applicable government taxes

Air-conditioned transportation throughout the tour, connecting Sri Lanka’s north, east, Cultural Triangle, highlands and southern coast.

Airport arrival and departure transfers included, together with transportation required for the planned itinerary

Enhance your journey with optional experiences, accommodation upgrades and additional arrangements, available upon request and subject to availability.

  • Early Bird Discount on selected departures.
  • Flexible instalment payment options.
  • Discount vouchers.
  • Ceylon Discovery Club loyalty points.
Day 1 | Arrival

On arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport, meet your guide and receive a warm welcome before transferring to the coastal town of Negombo.

Travel through the local surroundings towards your hotel, offering your first glimpse of Sri Lanka and its tropical landscapes. On arrival, check in and spend the remainder of the day at leisure, allowing time to relax, refresh and settle in after your journey.

Day 02 – Negombo - Anuradhapura | Coastal Life & Ancient Heritage

After breakfast, begin the day by discovering the local character of Negombo. Visit the lively fish market, where local fishermen bring in the morning catch, and experience the atmosphere of one of the island’s best-known fishing communities. See the traditional oruwa outrigger canoes associated with the Negombo Lagoon before visiting the remains of the historic Negombo Fort.

Check in to the Cloud Nine Resort Wilpattu.

Later in the afternoon, explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura, discovering the remarkable heritage of one of Sri Lanka’s historic capitals. Visit the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi, the magnificent Ruwanweliseya, the serene Samadhi Buddha and Isurumuniya, known for its ancient rock temple and carvings.

Return to the hotel following the visit and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 03 – Wilpattu National Park | Wildlife Safari

Enjoy a relaxed morning at the hotel before travelling to Wilpattu National Park for an exciting afternoon 4WD safari.

Journey through one of Sri Lanka’s remarkable wilderness areas, characterised by dense forests, open grasslands and natural lakes known as villus. Explore the park with an experienced safari driver while looking out for Sri Lankan leopards, wild elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, water buffalo, wild boar, monkeys and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat.

After the safari, travel back to Anuradhapura and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Unforgettable Moments
Day 04 – Anuradhapura - Journey to the North

Travel north towards the Jaffna Peninsula, leaving behind the landscapes of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle as the scenery gradually transforms along the journey. Pass through rural towns and villages, open countryside and stretches of road lined with the distinctive palmyrah palms that have long been associated with the northern region.

As you enter the peninsula, discover a side of Sri Lanka shaped by its own Tamil culture, Hindu traditions, architecture and cuisine. The journey offers an introduction to the character of the north before arriving in Jaffna, a fascinating city where colourful temples, colonial heritage, local markets and traditional ways of life come together.

Arrive in Jaffna, check in and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 05 – Discover Jaffna – Culture, Heritage & Local Life

Explore Jaffna’s distinctive culture and everyday life, beginning with a visit to the colourful Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most significant Hindu temples in Northern Sri Lanka. Learn about local Hindu traditions and the importance of the temple to the Jaffna community.

Continue to the historic Jaffna Fort, overlooking the lagoon, and discover the colonial influences that have shaped the peninsula over the centuries.

DDay 06 – Jaffna | Leisure Day

Enjoy a full day at leisure to experience Jaffna at your own pace, with time to discover more of the peninsula beyond the main sightseeing attractions.

Explore local neighbourhoods, browse small shops and markets, sample authentic northern cuisine, or discover locally made palmyrah products and traditional snacks. Take time to experience the relaxed pace of daily life, interact with local communities or simply enjoy the hotel and its surroundings.

Add a local food experience, with an opportunity to taste specialities such as Jaffna crab curry, dosai, vadai and traditional sweets, depending on availability. Spend time interacting with local vendors and learning about the food traditions and daily life of the peninsula.

Day 07 – Jaffna -Trincomalee - Nilaveli

Leave Jaffna and travel towards Sri Lanka’s beautiful northeast coast, passing through rural communities, open landscapes and small towns as you make your way towards Trincomalee.

On arrival, explore the historic Fort Frederick area before continuing to the spectacular Koneswaram Temple, dramatically positioned on Swami Rock overlooking the Indian Ocean. Discover the temple’s Hindu traditions while enjoying impressive views across the coastline and Trincomalee’s natural harbour.

Continue to Bhadrakali Amman Temple, known for its colourful architecture and importance to the local Hindu community. Along the way, experience the multicultural character of Trincomalee and gain an insight into the traditions and everyday life of Sri Lanka’s northeast.

 

Day 08 – Nilaveli | Beach Leisure

Spend the day at leisure along the northeast coast. Relax on the beach, enjoy the hotel facilities or independently explore more of the surrounding Trincomalee area.

 

Day 09 – Nilaveli - Polonnaruwa - Dambulla

Travel towards Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle, passing through rural landscapes, farming communities and countryside before arriving at the UNESCO-listed ancient city of Polonnaruwa, once one of the island’s great medieval capitals.

Explore the remarkable archaeological remains scattered across the ancient city, where royal palaces, Buddhist temples, stupas, stone carvings and sophisticated irrigation systems reveal the achievements of an ancient civilisation.

Visit the beautifully preserved Vatadage, before continuing to Gal Vihara, renowned for its impressive Buddha figures carved from a single granite rock. Discover the remains of Nissankamalla’s Council Chamber and learn about the royal history of the ancient kingdom.

Complete the experience beside Parakrama Samudra, the vast man-made reservoir created during the reign of King Parakramabahu I and an impressive example of Sri Lanka’s ancient irrigation heritage.

Continue to Dambulla and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 10 – Sigiriya Rock Fortress

After breakfast, visit the UNESCO-listed Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Walk through the landscaped gardens before beginning the climb towards the ancient royal citadel. Discover the famous frescoes, Mirror Wall and Lion’s Paws before reaching the upper sections of the fortress with views across the surrounding countryside. Refresh with a selection of fresh local tropical fruits. 

Return to the hotel and spend the afternoon at leisure.

In the afternoon, set out on an exciting 4WD safari through Minneriya National Park, travelling across open grasslands, forest trails and the surroundings of the ancient Minneriya Reservoir.

Day 11 – Sigiriya - Kandy

Travel towards Kandy, Sri Lanka’s cultural capital surrounded by the scenic hills of the central region. On arrival, discover the character of the city with time to explore Kandy City Centre, local shopping areas and the colourful Kandy Market, where stalls showcase fresh produce, spices, local snacks and everyday life.

Discover traditional Sri Lankan arts and crafts, with opportunities to see locally made handicrafts, wood carvings, batik and other artisan products while learning about craftsmanship passed through generations.

In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan cultural performance, featuring colourful costumes, energetic dancing and rhythmic drumming that showcase some of Sri Lanka’s best-known performing traditions.

Visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, one of Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist sites. Set beside Kandy Lake within the former royal palace complex, the temple is believed to house the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha and remains an important place of worship and pilgrimage.

Day 12 – Nuwara Eliya | Tea Country & Highland Charm

Travel into Sri Lanka’s central highlands towards Nuwara Eliya, as the scenery gradually changes to rolling tea-covered hills, misty mountains, cascading waterfalls and cool highland landscapes.

Along the way, enjoy views of tea plantations stretching across the hillsides before arriving in Nuwara Eliya, a town known for its cooler climate and distinctive colonial-era character.

Explore the town and continue to Lake Gregory, where you can enjoy a leisurely walk along the lakeside, take in the mountain surroundings or hire a bicycle to explore independently.

For those looking for a relaxed afternoon experience, enjoy an high tea at Araliya Green City, with a selection of sweet and savoury treats accompanied by freshly brewed Ceylon tea.

 

Day 13 – Nuwara Eliya | Leisure or Horton Plains Adventure

Spend the day at leisure in Nuwara Eliya, enjoying the cool mountain climate and relaxed surroundings at your own pace.

Optional: Excursion to Horton Plains National Park, a spectacular highland wilderness of open grasslands, cloud forests and mountain scenery. Follow the approximately 9 km walking trail across the plateau, passing through changing landscapes towards the dramatic viewpoint of World’s End and the beautiful Baker’s Falls.

Return to Nuwara Eliya after the trek and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.

Day 14 – Nanu Oya - Ella | Scenic Train Journey & Highland Experiences

After an early breakfast, transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station and board the train towards Ella for one of Sri Lanka’s most memorable railway journeys.

Travel through the central highlands, passing rolling tea plantations, mist-covered mountains, forested valleys, tunnels and small hill-country villages along the way. Enjoy the changing scenery as the train winds through the mountains towards Ella.

On arrival, transfer to your hotel before setting out to discover the iconic Nine Arches Bridge, surrounded by lush greenery and tea country. Continue to Little Adam’s Peak for a scenic walk, rewarded with beautiful views across Ella’s mountains and valleys.

Day 15 – Ella - Weerawila | Yala Wildlife Experience

Leave Ella and travel south towards Weerawila, descending from the cool central highlands as the scenery gradually changes from mist-covered mountains and tea country to rural villages, open plains and the warmer landscapes of Sri Lanka’s south.

On arrival, check in to your hotel before setting out on an exciting 4WD safari through Yala National Park. Explore a diverse wilderness of forests, open grasslands, lagoons and rocky terrain while searching for Sri Lankan leopards, wild elephants, sloth bears, spotted deer, water buffalo, jackals and a variety of birdlife in their natural habitat.

Return to the hotel following the safari and enjoy the evening at leisure.

Day 16 – Weerawila - Galle - Kosgoda | Southern Heritage & Coastal Charm

Travel along Sri Lanka’s southern coast towards historic Galle, passing through coastal towns, fishing villages and palm-fringed landscapes along the way.

On arrival, explore the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort, where centuries of history are reflected in its colonial architecture and narrow streets. Walk along the impressive fort ramparts and bastions, see the iconic Galle Lighthouse, and discover historic buildings that reflect the Portuguese, Dutch and British influences on the city.

Continue through the Fort to the beautifully restored Dutch Hospital complex, now home to boutiques, cafés and restaurants, with time to experience the relaxed character of this historic quarter.

Afterwards, continue along the coastline towards Kosgoda, enjoying views of Sri Lanka’s southern coastal landscapes before checking in to your hotel.

Day 17 – Kosgoda | Beach Leisure

Enjoy a full day at leisure along Sri Lanka’s southern coast, with time to relax and enjoy the tropical surroundings at your own pace.

Spend the day relaxing on the beach, swimming in the Indian Ocean or enjoying the resort’s pool and recreational facilities. Those looking for a quieter day can simply enjoy the coastal setting, while others may explore the surrounding area independently.

This leisurely day provides a welcome opportunity to relax after the journey through Sri Lanka and enjoy the slower pace of the south coast.

 

Day 18 – Turtle Conservation & Coastal Escape

Begin the day with a visit to a sea turtle hatchery, where you will learn about local conservation efforts focused on protecting Sri Lanka’s marine turtles. Discover more about the different turtle species found around the island, their nesting cycle and the challenges they face in their natural environment.

Day at leisure. Relax by the pool, enjoy the beach, take in the riverside surroundings or simply enjoy the hotel facilities at your own pace

 

Day 19 – Kosgoda - Colombo | City Highlights & Dinner at Lotus Tower

After breakfast, travel north towards Colombo, Sri Lanka’s commercial capital, where colonial heritage, contemporary architecture and local life come together.

In the afternoon, set out on a sightseeing tour of the city, with drive-by views of the Colombo Racecourse, Floating Market and Port City Colombo, before continuing to Independence Square, one of the city’s prominent landmarks.

Those wishing to explore further can choose an optional visit to the National Museum of Colombo or Gangaramaya Temple, offering an insight into Sri Lanka’s history, culture and Buddhist traditions.

In the evening, enjoy a memorable dinner at the Colombo Lotus Tower, taking in panoramic views across the city as it lights up for the night.

Day 20 – Colombo - Airport | Departure

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend your final morning in Colombo at leisure, with time to relax before checking out.

At the appropriate time, meet your guide and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport, travelling through Colombo and its surrounding areas according to your flight schedule.

Arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete check-in and departure formalities before boarding your onward flight, bringing your journey through Sri Lanka to a close.

 

Important info

Booking Info

After booking, you will receive a payment receipt and booking confirmation, together with a link to complete the Passenger Information Form. The form must be completed within 72 hours of booking.

Please include any special requests, preferences or optional extras when completing the form. Requests made after submission cannot be guaranteed and will be subject to availability and any applicable additional charges.

  • An initial deposit of AUD 150 per person is required upon booking confirmation.
  • The remaining balance can be paid in three instalments.
  • The final instalment must be paid 60 days prior to the date of arrival.
  • More than 60 days prior to arrival: Full refund
  • 31–60 days prior to arrival: 50% cancellation charge
  • 15–30 days prior to arrival: 75% cancellation charge
  • 14 days or less prior to arrival: 100% cancellation charge
  • No-show: 100% cancellation charge

Additional excursions, experiences and accommodation upgrades can be arranged upon request at an additional cost, subject to availability.

Additional wellness experiences, excursions, accommodation upgrades, private experiences and personalised arrangements can be arranged upon request at an additional cost, subject to availability.

  • Traditional welcome on arrival in Sri Lanka.
  • Three 4WD wildlife safari experiences at Wilpattu, Minneriya and Yala National Parks.
  • High tea experience in Nuwara Eliya.
  • Scenic train journey from Nanu Oya to Ella, subject to availability.
  • Sea turtle conservation experience.
  • Dinner at the Colombo Lotus Tower.
  • International flights.
  • Tourist visa.
  • Entrance and excursion fees for optional activities.
  • Excursions not specifically mentioned in the tour inclusions.
  • Additional meals, snacks and beverages not specified in the itinerary.
  • Early check-in and late check-out.
  • Tips and expenses of a personal nature.

Visas are not included in the package cost. Travellers are responsible for obtaining the required visa and ensuring that their passports and other travel documents meet the applicable entry requirements prior to travel.

Stay Period – 01 November 2026 to 19 December 2026
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 3,260 2,850 2,675 2,599
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,430 1,430 1,430 1,430
Stay Period – 10 January 2027 to 31 March 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 3,430 3,025 2,850 2,789
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,625 1,625 1,625 1,625
Stay Period – 01 April 2027 to 30 April 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 3,375 2,975 2,799 2,725
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,570 1,570 1,570 1,570
Stay Period – 01 May to 30 June 2027 & 01 September to 30 October 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 3,135 2,735 2,550 2,490
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,350 1,350 1,350 1,350
Stay Period – 01 July 2027 to 31 August 2027
Description 02 Pax 04 Pax 06 Pax 10 Pax
Per person sharing double room (USD) 3,480 3,075 2,900 2,835
Single Supplement Cost (USD) 1,625 1,625 1,625 1,625

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