HOLIDAY SEARCH down 0208 843 4410
Call 0800 408 8000 We are open 24X7
banner-04-ah-exxe

Search Tour

Essence of Sri Lanka

Experience the magic of Sri Lanka on a journey that blends ancient cities, stunning landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters. From rock fortresses and cave temples to serene tea plantations and golden beaches, this adventure is rich with culture, history and natural beauty. Perfect for the curious traveller looking to explore Sri Lanka’s iconic highlights with moments of relaxation woven throughout.

Tour Nights

  • Sigiriya: 3 nights
  • Kandy: 2 nights
  • Nuwara Eliya: 1 nights
  • Yala Park: 1 nights
  • Kalutara: 1 nights
  • Tour CodeTour code: AWSL23
  • Accommodation GradeAccommodation Grade
  • Private TourPrivate Tour

Tour At a Glance

  • Ancient Cities – Discover the ruins of Polonnaruwa and climb the legendary Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Sacred Sites – Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy
  • Hill Country – Enjoy the landscapes of Nuwara Eliya and tour a traditional Ceylon tea plantation
  • Wildlife Safari – Spot leopards, elephants and diverse wildlife on a thrilling jeep safari in Yala National Park
  • Relax by the Coast – Unwind on Sri Lanka’s beautiful beaches

Itinerary details

Collapse all
  • Day 1 : Arrival in Sri Lanka – Transfer to Sigiriya
    sigiriya-02-ESSEN

    Upon arrival, you’ll be welcomed and driven to Sigiriya. After check-in, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
    Overnight Stay: Sigiriya/Dambulla (3 nights) 

  • Day 2 : Dambulla Cave Temple Exploration
    dambulla-cave-essence

    Visit the famous Dambulla Cave Temple. A treasured sanctuary since the 1st century B.C., this site boasts over 150 Buddha statues and intricate wall paintings across five richly decorated caves. In the evening, unwind at your hotel.
    Overnight Stay: Sigiriya/Dambulla 

  • Day 3 : Ancient Polonnaruwa & Sigiriya Rock Fortress
    sigiriya-01-essence

    Start the day early and travel to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s medieval capital. Wander through impressive ruins including temples, Buddha statues and the beautiful Watadage.
    Later, head back toward Sigiriya and climb the iconic Sigiriya Rock Fortress—an engineering marvel of the 5th century. Explore its frescoes, mirror wall and water gardens.
    Overnight Stay: Sigiriya/Dambulla 

  • Day 4 : Matale Spice Garden & Arrival in Kandy
    kandy-essence

    Journey to Kandy, stopping en route at a spice garden in Matale. Learn about Sri Lanka’s spice heritage and enjoy a cup of herbal tea. Upon arrival in Kandy, check in and spend the evening at your leisure.
    Overnight Stay: Kandy (2 nights) 

  • Day 5 : Peradeniya Gardens & Kandy City Tour
    peradeniya-botanical-garden-esse

    Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya—an elegant 147-acre haven with exotic flora, an orchid house and majestic fig trees.
    Later, take a cultural city tour of Kandy including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a stroll by Kandy Lake, a visit to the bazaar, gem museum and finish with a traditional cultural show.
    Overnight Stay: Kandy 

  • Day 6 : Hill Country Escape – Nuwara Eliya & Tea Experience
    nuwara-eliya-tea-plantation-es

    Depart for Nuwara Eliya and enjoy scenic hill country views along the way. Visit a tea plantation and factory to witness the making of world-renowned Ceylon Tea.
    Spend the evening at leisure in the cool, colonial-era town.
    Overnight Stay: Nuwara Eliya (1 night)  

  • Day 7 : Safari Adventure in Yala National Park
    yala-national-park-essence

    Travel to Yala and check in at your hotel. In the evening, embark on a jeep safari through Yala National Park. Encounter leopards, elephants, sloth bears and a range of birdlife in one of Asia’s top wildlife destinations.
    Overnight Stay: Yala (1 night) 

  • Day 8 : Coastal Escape – Transfer to Beach Hotel at Kalutara
    kalutara-beach-01-ess

    Head to the beach for some well-deserved relaxation. Check into your beachfront hotel and enjoy the day at leisure, soaking in the coastal charm.
    Overnight Stay: Kalutara Beach Hotel (1 night) 

  • Day 9 : Kalutara Departure
    kalutara-beach-02-esse

    After breakfast proceed to the Colombo Airport to connect with your departure flight. 

Dates & Guide Prices

  • PERIOD OF TRAVEL
  • PRICE (PP)
  • PERIOD OF TRAVEL
  • PRICE (PP)

Hotels

  • Thilanka Hotel
    Thilanka Hotel
    Star Rating Kandy
  • Araliya Red Nuwara Eliya
    Araliya Red Nuwara Eliya
    Star Rating Nuwara Eliya
  • Turyaa Kalutara
    Turyaa Kalutara
    Star Rating Kalutara
  • Cinnamon Lodge
    Cinnamon Lodge
    Star Rating Habarana
  • Earls Regency
    Earls Regency
    Star Rating Kandy
  • Araliya Green Hills Hotel
    Araliya Green Hills Hotel
    Star Rating Nuwara Eliya
  • Jetwing Yala
    Jetwing Yala
    Star Rating Yala Park
  • Heritance Ahungalla
    Heritance Ahungalla
    Star Rating Kalutara

Thilanka Hotel Star Rating

Kandy
  • Thilanka Hotel

Thilanka hotel is majestically located in the Hill capital of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by the mist veiled Hunnasgiriya mountains and the lush Udawattaekelle natural reserve, it overlooks the great city of Kandy. The hotel is clo

More info

Araliya Red Nuwara Eliya Star Rating

Nuwara Eliya
  • Araliya Red Nuwara Eliya

Locating in the Hill Country, Nuwara Eliya is known as the little England due to its temperate climate which is further complemented by the colonial appearance of the town. Lake Gregory just 15 Minutes walk away, Horton Plain

More info

Turyaa Kalutara Star Rating

Kalutara
  • Turyaa Kalutara

Turyaa Kalutara is conveniently located just 80Kms away from the Bandaranaike International Airport, and approximately 37Km from the cosmopolitan capital of Colombo. Located in the Southern coastal destination of Kalutara,

More info

Cinnamon Lodge Star Rating

Habarana
  • Cinnamon Lodge

Cinnamon Lodge is located at the heart of Sri Lanka's world famous cultural triangle of Kandy Anuradhapura Polonnaruwa. The Sigiriya's rock fortress and the other ancient attractions are all within easy reach from the city ce

More info

Earls Regency Star Rating

Kandy
  • Earls Regency

Situated on the mountainside, overlooking the Mahaweli River and valley, the Earl's Regency Hotel Kandy is surrounded by lush garden. This property is just 4 kilometers from the City Centre Kandy. Drive time from Colombo Inte

More info

Araliya Green Hills Hotel Star Rating

Nuwara Eliya
  • Araliya Green Hills Hotel

Located amidst misty mountains, surreal tea hills and salubrious climes Araliya Green Hills is premier amongst hotels in Nuwaraeliya that is adorned by colonial splendour and an eclectic charm. In an elegant manor on a leafy

More info

Jetwing Yala Star Rating

Yala Park
  • Jetwing Yala

The hotel is located on the borders of Yala National Park. Jetwing Yala is within 35 km from the new Mattala International Airport. Colombo City is approximately a 4-hour drive away from the hotel.

More info

Heritance Ahungalla Star Rating

Kalutara
  • Heritance Ahungalla

Heritance Ahungalla is located on the coastline of great Indian Ocean surrounded by dense coconut groves. The hotel is close to many famous beaches like Bentota Beach, Hikkaduwa Beach and Kalutara Beach. The International Air

More info

What's Included?

  • Return International flight from UK.
  • Meet and Greet services.
  • Transportation by air-conditioned standard Car/Van.
  • Accommodation as speified in the itinerary.
  • Meals on Bed & Breakfast.
  • Service of English speaking chauffeur guide.
  • Entrance fees to Sigiriya Rock, Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, Botanical Gardens, Kandy temple, Cultural Show & Yala National Park.
  • ADD-ON SERVICE
  • Batick Sarong per guest with welcome pack.
  • FREE upgrade to HB throughout the tour.

What's not Included?

  • Visa fees.
  • Video Camera and Still Camera permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy.
  • Entrance fees to sites (apart from the program).
  • Cost of beverages throughout the tour.
  • Expenses of any personal nature.
  • Transfers to any beach drops in the southern coast.
  • Ticket to view the Kandy Esala Perahera in Kandy.
  • Christmas, New Year Eve supplement. 
  • Any other services not mentioned in the itinerary and inclusions.

Additional Information

Prices above are per person in pounds sterling (£) based on twin sharing.
X Close
Close
Gold Trusted Service Award

What our customers say...

Don't take our word for it! Read what all our customers are saying about their experience with us.

Average Customer Rating
4.8/5
feefo logo yellow
Independent Service Rating based on 608 verified reviews. Read all reviews
My Maldives booking

The service I got from Glen of awayholidays was...

Mrs Maricia Hallam - Jul 14, 2025
Praveen was an amazing advisor from start...

I was very pleasantly suprised at the prompt...

Mrs Beverley Howarth - Jul 14, 2025
Great service- already recommended to friends

Great service. Very helpful information...

Trusted Customer - Jul 14, 2025
Top marks to Alex

We have dealt with Alex, Senior Travel Advisor...

Trusted Customer - Jul 13, 2025
Stay In Touch

Sign up to our newsletter and follow us for special offers, news and inspiration.

Book with Confidence – Your Holiday is ATOL Protected

  • Certification logo Certificate Number 16169
    ISO 22301
  • IATA logo

Many of the flights and flight-inclusive holidays on this website are financially protected by the ATOL scheme. But ATOL protection does not apply to all holiday and travel services listed on this website. Please ask us to confirm what protection may apply to your booking. If you do not receive an ATOL Certificate then the booking will not be ATOL protected.

If you do receive an ATOL Certificate but all the parts of your trip are not listed on it, those parts will not be ATOL protected. If you have booked a flight only where the ticket is not issued immediately, your flight will be protected under our ATOL. Please see our booking conditions for information, or for more information about financial protection and the ATOL Certificate go to www.caa.co.uk/ATOLCertificate

Visit www.gov.uk/foriegn-travel-advice for latest destination travel advice from the Foreign Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) including Covid19 travel advice, security and local laws, and passport and visa information

Cross Would you like a free callback in 5 Seconds.
Newsletter Subscription

Sign up and save on your next holiday

We won't pass your details on to anyone else. By Clicking the sign up button you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.

close Icons
X
Talk to an expert today

Your dream holiday is just a phone call away

OR
Welcome to Away Holidays

We use cookies to improve your experience on Away Holidays and show personalized content, depending on your settings.

X Choose your cookie preferences
  • Essential

    Our website can't operate properly without essential cookies. We only collect the minimum personal information needed to provide services on awayholidays.co.uk. You can disable these cookies in your browser but parts of awayholidays.co.uk may not work.

  • Analytics

    We use analytical cookies to measure how you use our website and help improve awayholidays.co.uk.

  • Marketing

    We use marketing cookies to display personalised advertisements on other sites you may visit. We work with approved partners to deliver relevant content and measure the effectiveness of these advertisements.

  • Functional

    These cookies let us save the choices you make and some of the information you provide when browsing awayholidays.co.uk. They don't track your browsing activity on other websites. Without functional cookies, awayholidays.co.uk may not work reliably.

Top Arrow