Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka

Riviera Travel's tour takes you to all the major sites of historical and cultural interest, visiting three outstanding UNESCO World Heritage sites and finishing with three days’ relaxation in one of the country’s finest beach resorts. Two nights are spent in Sri Lanka’s fascinating ‘Cultural Triangle’, where we visit one of the best-preserved ancient sites on the Indian subcontinent. Sigiriya Rock, an impregnable 5th Century palace and fortress clinging to the top of an immense granite monolith soaring up 600 feet is Sri Lanka’s most remarkable sight, with amazing views of the jungle-covered plain below.

The fertile plains, the colourful towns and villages, the lush forests of the interior with the vast plantations of tea, rubber and coconuts will entrance you while its history and traditions will capture your imagination.

What's included:

• 15 nights in four to five-star accommodation
• Return flights & transfers
• 16 included experiences
• Expert Tour Manager that specialises in solo travel, looking after you throughout
• Checked luggage
• 27 meals: 14 breakfasts, 1 lunch & 12 dinners

Highlights:

• Discover Wilpattu and Minneriya National Parks in Sri Lanka’s lesser visited north, where elephants, leopards and sloth bears roam free on safaris through lush forests and open plains teeming with wildlife.
• Head south to Bundala and Yala National Parks to spot monkeys, crocodiles and colourful birdlife. Explore coastal lagoons and dry scrubland packed with wildlife — ideal for unforgettable animal sightings.
• Take a peaceful forest walk through Udawattakele's lush canopy accompanied by local guides, enjoying the sights and sounds of nature on bird-filled trails.
• Wander through the vibrant cities of Colombo and Kandy, where colonial architecture and lively markets blend seamlessly with daily life.
• Uncover the story of Sri Lanka’s north in Jaffna, a region once closed off during civil war, rich in Tamil culture and history.
• Experience the spiritual heart of the country in the clifftop Koneswaram Temple and the revered Temple of the Tooth, home to a sacred relic of Buddha.
• Travel the full compass of the island with visits to Sri Lanka's northernmost and southernmost points, the vibrant western capital, Colombo, and relaxing stays on the island’s east and south coast.
• Taste the island's culinary delights with traditional Sri Lankan dishes at a local restaurant and fresh northern flavours during a farm-to-table lunch at an organic farm.

Day 1: Departure

The adventure begins with an overnight flight to Colombo.

Day 2: Arrival in Colombo

Arrive in Colombo and transfer to our hotel for a two-night stay and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel’s facilities.

Later this evening, gather with your fellow explorers by the pool for a welcome drink before sitting down to a welcome dinner together at the hotel’s restaurant.

Day 3: Colombo

This morning, we'll begin our exploration in earnest with a panoramic city tour - the perfect introduction. Feel the pulse of the city — tuk tuks weaving through traffic, locals adorned in traditional dress fill the streets as they go about their daily lives. Symbols of Buddhism, Hinduism, Islam and Christianity are interwoven into the fabric of the city, creating a beautiful tapestry of co-existing cultures.

We will explore the bustling streets of Pettah, where the air is thick with the scent of spices and the chatter of the marketplace, as locals and visitors mingle over stalls filled with vibrant textiles and delicious street foods. Next, it's on to the parliament, with all its colonial charm — a striking contrast to the eye-catching candy-stripped facade of the Red Mosque, a symbol of architecture wonder, which stands close by.

Our tour culminates with a visit to the iconic Lotus Tower, the tallest single supported structure in Southeast Asia. We'll reach the summit by lift, where a breathtaking 360-degree view awaits — Colombo unfurls beneath us, stretching out towards emerald forests and the turquoise waters of the Indian ocean.

Returning to our hotel, the rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure.

Day 4: Wilpattu National Park

Leaving the hustle and bustle of the capital, we'll head north this morning. Watch as the scenery transitions from urban landscapes to untamed wilderness. Our path weaves through tropical trees, coconut and palmyra palm plantations, giving you your first taste of the jungle. On our journey, we’ll stop for a lunch at a local restaurant, where the decor is as wild as the surroundings. The food is traditional Sri Lankan: fragrant rice, rich curries and a few familiar Western dishes for those who prefer a gentler culinary adventure.

Afternoon safari in Wilpattu National Park From the restaurant it's just a short distance to Wilpattu National Park, where we swap our coach for safari jeeps — the kind with padded seats and open sides. With just six guests per vehicle, it's perfect for wildlife spotting and soaking up the sounds of the forest.

Then the adventure really begins. The 1,317 km square national park is the biggest in Sri Lanka, home to elephants, water buffalo, deer, monkeys and a kaleidoscope of birdlife — there's something to see everywhere you look. Your local guides, with eyes sharper than a hawks and years of experience finding even the most elusive of creatures, will help you spot the native wildlife in their natural habitat. Langurs leap through branches, sloth bears rustle in the undergrowth and crocodiles peer out from the surface of the water.

The safari is a masterclass of patience and presence but, if you're lucky, you could even spot a leopard lounging in the trees. The sheer size of its head, the power in its limbs, the stillness of its gaze — you'll be telling this story for years to come.

After our safari, we return to our coach, with cameras full of the wonders of Wilpattu, and continue on to Habarana, where we stay for two nights.

Day 5: Sigiriya & Minneriya National Park

Sigiriya This morning, we set our sights on one of Sri Lanka's most Iconic landmarks — Sigiriya. Rising 600 feet above the plains, this granite monolith is more than a geological marvel; it holds the ruins of an ancient palace.

Moats, water gardens and ancient ramparts surround the rock like a fortress lost to time. Beneath an overhang in the cliff, we'll pause to admire the 'Cloud Maidens' — ethereal frescoes of women bearing lotus flowers, their colours still visible after 1,500 years. Further on, the lion's paw is all that remains of the grand stone archway shaped like a lion's head — the reason for its moniker: "Lion's Rock". From here, those feeling adventurous can climb around 1,200 steps to the top for sweeping views of the jungle below. It's a manageable ascent and the reward is unforgettable!

Minneriya National Park Later, we'll head to Minneriya National Park — a haven for wildlife and home to the Minneriya Tank, an ancient reservoir is believed to build by King Mahasen (275-301 AD). During the dry season, this vast body of water becomes a gathering place for elephants, birds and other creatures looking for water and shade, making it the perfect place to observe animals in their natural habitat.

Splitting off into safari jeeps, accompanied by expert guides who know the terrain and its inhabitants intimately. Here, the elephants are the stars of the show. The dry season (May to October) in particular is famous for the "gathering" where hundreds of elephants congregate around the Minneriya reservoir. And throughout the year, you might spot a herd grazing peacefully by the water's edge or young calves playing in the long grass. Some cool off in mud baths while others wander off into the trees.

Journeying through the park, there's a sense of anticipation with every turn. What will be waiting for you? Monkeys? Crocodiles? Water buffalo? All have made a home here.

After our afternoon safari, we'll head back to Habarana for dinner at our hotel.

Day 6: Jaffna

Travel to Jaffna Leaving Habanara behind, we continue our journey north. Once isolated by decades of civil war, the region is finally opening its doors to travellers, offering a rare glimpse into a culture and landscape that feels distinct, yet familiar to the more widely visited south. As we travel the scenery shifts again — tropical forests give way to flat plains.

Jaffna Our destination today is Jaffna, and upon arrival, there is time to relax and freshen up at the hotel before we regroup and begin an afternoon of exploration in the company of an expert local guide.

We'll visit the Jaffna Public Library. It once held a vast an invaluable collection of books, ancient manuscripts and historic records on Tamil civilisation in Sri Lanka. The destruction of the original library in 1981, which was burned by Sri Lankan Armed Forces, was a catalyst for the Sri Lankan civil war. The new library stands as a testament to the regions determination to preserve its identify and history.

We’ll end our guided tour at Jaffna Fort, built by the Portuguese who occupied the island, then name Ceylon from 1505 to 1658. Walking its weathered walls, you'll see the bullet marks and battlements — silent witnesses to centuries of conflict and change. The views from the ramparts are striking, but it's the stories behind the stones that stay with you.

We return to our hotel for dinner and an evening at leisure.

Day 7: Jaffna & Point Pedro

Jaffna is the cultural and historical heart of Tamil heritage, with Hindu traditions deeply woven into daily life. Today, our guided tour continues with a visit to Nallur Temple. Founded in 948 AD, the temple has seen much of Sri Lanka's history, from the ancient Jaffna Kingdom to the civil war. It's become a symbol of Tamil nationalism, having witnessed events like the hunger strike of Tamil revolutionary, Thileepan. Despite its tumultuous past, the temple retains its sense of spirituality with colourful ceremonies, golden towers and the heavy scent of incense wafting in the air. Modest dress is required here — a sign of respect for a region where faith is lived with quiet intensity.

Farm tour and lunch Next, we visit an organic farm where you can choose between a guided walk through the fields to learn about all the food they produce, including tropical fruits and vegetables, and the local growing practices that make it possible. Alternatively, simply relax under the shaded pavilion with a cool drink. Lunch here is a celebration of the flavours of northern Sri Lanka crafted with fresh local produce.

Point Pedro This afternoon, we head to Point Pedro, the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka. A short walk brings us to Sakkotai Cape, where the ocean breeze carries the scent of salt and the sound of waves. A plaque marks the spot as the most northerly part of the country and there's nothing beyond it but open sea — the ideal place for a photo and a quiet moment to reflect on the journey so far.

Day 8: Travel to Nilaveli

This morning, we leave Jaffna behind and head to the peaceful shores of Nilaveli on the east coast of Sri Lanka. The drive showcases Sri Lanka's layered past, passing through rural villages, agricultural landscapes and former army checkpoints that marked the war's divide until 2009.

By early afternoon, we'll arrive at our hotel, where we'll stay for two nights. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to take a stroll along the soft white sands, dip your toes in the water or simply take advantage of the hotel's facilities.

Day 9: Trincomalee

Koneswaram Temple This morning, we explore a coastal gem with deep historical and spiritual roots, Trincomalee.

Our first stop is the Koneswaram Temple, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean, offering sweeping views of the ocean that feel otherworldly. Known as the "Temple of a Thousand Pillars", Koneswaram is considered to be one of the Pancha Ishwarams (one of the five abodes of Lord Shiva), making it one of the most sacred sites for Hindu worshippers in Sri Lanka.

Inside, the temple's interior is decorated with intricate carvings and statues of deities, telling a story of devotion and tradition, as locals offer prayers and symbolic sacrifices.

Fort Fredrick We'll continue to Fort Fredrick, a 17th-century stronghold built by the Portuguese and later occupied by the Dutch and British. A guided walk takes us through its storied walls, past lookout points that offer lovely views of Trincomalee Bay. From here, you can see both sides of the coastline, making it a very strategically placed fort for soldiers, and now an excellent lookout for curious travellers.

After exploring, we'll return to the hotel, and the rest of the day is yours to soak up the coastal serenity of this scenic spot.

Day 10: Travel to Kandy

Today, we'll travel from Nilaveli inland to Kandy, a city steeped in history and charm.

It's a travel day, with a few comfort stops along the way and a chance to take in the scenery as we gradually ascend into hill country. By early afternoon, we arrive in Kandy, a city steeped in tradition, surrounded by forested hills.

After checking into our hotel, the rest of the day is at leisure to take advantage of the hotel's facilities.

Day 11: Udawattakele Forest Reserve & Kandy

Udawattakele Forest Reserve This morning, we stay close to the city centre, stepping into one of Kandy's best-kept secrets — the Udawattakele Forest Reserve. Hidden behind the bustle of the city, this tranquil haven feels a world away. The sound of traffic is replaced by birdsong, rustling leaves and the occasional chatter of monkeys in the treetops.

We walk peaceful trails through towering trees, bamboo groves and thick greenery, guided by a local expert who shares insights into the reserve's wildlife, native plants and seasonal fruits. Macaques, muntjacs, pangolins, porcupines and more all co-exist here.

Kandy After returning to our hotel for lunch and a little downtime, we head out again for a short sightseeing tour of Kandy. The city pulses with life — schoolchildren in crisp white uniforms weave through the market stalls brimming with spices, textiles and handcrafted goods.

Temple of the Tooth At the centre of the city lies the serene Temple of the Tooth, one of Sri Lanka's most sacred Buddhist sites. Believed to house a relic of Buddha's tooth, the temple is a place of deep devotion. Depending on timing, we may also have the opportunity to witness one of the daily ceremonies — a mesmerising blend of ritual rhythm and reverence.

We return to the hotel and the evening at leisure with dinner in the hotel's restaurant.

Day 12: Travel to Yala

Today, we travel from Kandy to Yala National Park and spend the rest of the day at leisure.

Day 13: Bundala National Park & Yala National Park

Bundala National Park We begin the day with an early morning in Bundala National Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve known for its beauty and biodiversity. As the sun rises over coastal wetlands and glittering lagoons, we'll explore this tranquil sanctuary in search of elephants, crocodiles, spotted deer and a variety of birdlife. With fewer visitors than larger parks, Bundala offers a more intimate wildlife experience — perfect for quiet observation and photography. A packed breakfast will be served during the drive, allowing you to enjoy the sights and sounds of the wild before the day begins.

Yala National Park After returning to the hotel for a well-earned rest, we set out again in the afternoon for a second safari — this time into Yala National Park, Sri Lanka's most iconic wildlife reserve. Yala is famous for its high density of leopards, and with luck, we may spot one prowling through the underground or lounging in the shade. The park's dramatic landscapes — from rocky outcrops to dense scrub jungle — provide a scenic backdrop for encounters with elephants, sloth bears, wild boar and a variety of colourful birdlife.

We return to the hotel in the early evening, with time to relax and reflect before dinner — a fitting end to a day filled with unforgettable moments in the wild.

Day 14: Bentota

Dondra Point Bid farewell to Yala after breakfast and begin our journey along the southern coast towards Bentota. En route, we'll visit Dondra Point, the southernmost tip of the island. Take a short walk through a quiet local village to the white lighthouse, nestle among tropical trees overlooking the Indian Ocean. It's a scenic stop and a chance to reflect on how far we've come - from the northernmost point in Jaffna to the southern edge of Sri Lanka.

Galle Fort We continue to Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri Lanka's most charming coastal towns. On a guided walking tour, we explore cobbled streets lined with Dutch and British colonial architecture, passing landmarks such as the lighthouse and the Dutch Reformed Church. The blend of history, culture and seaside charm makes it a highlight of the southern coast.

We'll arrive in Bentota by late afternoon, where the evening is yours to relax, explore the town or enjoy the hotel's facilities.

Day 15: Free Day in Bentota

After an all-encompassing adventure visiting north, south, east and west Sri Lanka, enjoy a day at leisure in and around the hotel to relax or explore as you wish.

Day 16: Return Home

Return to Colombo Airport and journey home.