Enjoy dinner and drinks with your fellow travelers.
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Sri Lanka
Colombo, Wilpattu National Park, Sigiriya, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya
6 Dinners, 9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunchs
Faster paced with mix of 1 and 2-night stays in each destination. Requires walking to participate in top sites.
If you typically fly business with extra legroom and appreciate 4 and 5-star hotels and one-of-a-kind experiences, Insight Vacations is a great fit for you. Get all the sights and insights, up close and personal on these premium guided tours and enjoy business class seating on luxury motorcoaches designed just for Insight Vacations, with double the legroom and personal space of a regular touring coach. Engage your curiosity with hand-selected experiences, immerse yourself in local culture with superior dining and stay in style at highly rated hotels. Every tour includes at least one MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. These immersive impact experiences are not only a positive force for change in the destinations you visit, by advancing one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), but also offer you the chance to take a deep dive into culture and community.
View all Insight Vacations ToursLive and breathe the culture of Sri Lanka as you take a walking tour through the picturesque backstreets of Colombo, see the famous fortress of Sigiriya set upon its rocky outcrop and visit Rahju’s Contemporary Art Gallery in Kandy. For something truly unique, take part in a Nuwara Eliya tea experience—an all-immersive tea leaf picking and fresh tea tasting affair, at one of the world’s most beautiful tea plantations. Voyage into the depths of the jungle on a game drive in Wilpattu National Park and keep your eyes peeled for leopards and elephants. Before the journey home, be sure not to miss the exquisite fragrances of the National Spice Garden in Matale and the architectural wonders of Anuradhapura—the capital city of Sri Lanka’s first kingdom that ruled for a thousand years.
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Welcome to Sri Lanka. A land of historic ruins, sweeping beaches and mouth-watering food, you’ve made it to paradise. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel. Unwind and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow travelers and Travel Director for dinner.
Taj Samudra Colombo is located in the heart of the Colombo city, overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Bright and airy, elegant rooms are stylishly designed with classic wood furnishings, creating a luxurious and comfortable retreat for guests.
Enjoy dinner and drinks with your fellow travelers.
Enjoy dinner and drinks with your fellow travelers.
There’s no better way to get to know a city than to walk through its back streets and experience it like a local. In the morning, head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the city's hidden treasures. Journey through a myriad of buildings that date back to 17th century and were erected mostly during Dutch and British rule. Visit Pettah Market, where locals head to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, garments and jewelery. This market place is older than the buildings around it and is an area best explored with a local. Later, board your customised tuk-tuk and head out to explore the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in Colombo's oldest neighborhoods. Cruise the city streets as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean and the city lights spring to life around a pulse of evening activity.
Taj Samudra Colombo is located in the heart of the Colombo city, overlooking the azure waters of the Indian Ocean. Bright and airy, elegant rooms are stylishly designed with classic wood furnishings, creating a luxurious and comfortable retreat for guests.
Head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the hidden treasures this city has to offer.
Head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the hidden treasures this city has to offer.
Take a panoramic city tour of Colombo including all the main sights and Pettah market.
Take a panoramic city tour of Colombo including all the main sights and Pettah market.
Explore by Tuk-Tuk old Colombo town and cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian ocean. See the city lights come alive ...
See MoreExplore by Tuk-Tuk old Colombo town and cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian ocean. See the city lights come alive for an evening of buzzing activity.
After breakfast, begin your journey to Wilpattu National Park. A unique complex of over fifty wetlands and gravel roads that trace watering holes, the perfect place to observe wildlife. On arrival, check into your luxury safari camp located on the boarder of the park, a quintessential glamping experience and a satisfying blend of comfort and nature. Enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. In the evening, venture deep into the thick wilderness. Explore the park by jeep safari, taking the back roads in search for Sri Lanka's big four—leopards, elephants, sloth bears and deer.
The luxurious Mahoora Safari Camp is located on the border of Wilpattu National Park, known for its leopards. A quintessential glamping experience and satisfying blend of comfort and nature, enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. Mahoora Safari Camp is Sri Lanka's first carbon neutral safari camp with a philosophy to provide ethical, responsible and sustainable luxury tented holidays. They help support local communities by creating jobs and actively work to minimise their impact on the environment and the planets natural resources.
Ascend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari in search for Sri Lanka's big four. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth b...
See MoreAscend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari in search for Sri Lanka's big four. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colorful birds.
Enjoy journeying through the jungle on your morning and afternoon safaris. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, buffalos, mongooses and turtles.
The luxurious Mahoora Safari Camp is located on the border of Wilpattu National Park, known for its leopards. A quintessential glamping experience and satisfying blend of comfort and nature, enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. Mahoora Safari Camp is Sri Lanka's first carbon neutral safari camp with a philosophy to provide ethical, responsible and sustainable luxury tented holidays. They help support local communities by creating jobs and actively work to minimise their impact on the environment and the planets natural resources.
Ascend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colorful birds.
Ascend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colorful birds.
In the morning head south, making your way to Sigiriya. Stop on your journey at the Anuradhapura temple complex, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, sprawling and with a rich collection of archaeological wonders. Now a World Heritage site, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its ancient ruins with your Travel Director. Meet a practicing Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour of the Ritigala jungle’s enveloped paths. Hear the tales and secrets of the forest dwelling monks that once inhabited the reserve. Begin your gradual ascent, making your way through seemingly endless paths and flights of carved stairs. This was once a place of meditation, congregation, teaching and general life for a monastic community who today devote their lives to simple living in the forest.
An artful blend of contemporary architecture and minimalistic style with an authentic Sri Lankan touch, the Aliya Resort & Spa is set in the lush forests where elephants roam free. Rooms have been uniquely designed with the colors and motifs of Sri Lankan batik that come equipped with all modern comforts, illustrating a discreet opulence.
Meet a practising Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour through Ritigala Jungle and hear tales of the forest dwelling monks, a monastic comm...
See MoreMeet a practising Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour through Ritigala Jungle and hear tales of the forest dwelling monks, a monastic community, who once inhabited the monastic reserve, devoting their lives to living simply in the forest.
Explore the temple complex, sprawling with a rich collection of archaeological wonders.
Explore the temple complex, sprawling with a rich collection of archaeological wonders.
Visit the small community of Puranagama, to experience traditional village life.
Visit the small community of Puranagama, to experience traditional village life.
Surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is steeped in history. Explore Sigiriya with Insight Choice. Choose to climb Sigiriya Rock. Alternatively, visit Sigiriya Botanical Gardens. Later, visit the historic city of Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms. During a tuk-tuk ride, explore the ancient remains of temples and tombs. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself before heading back to your hotel.
An artful blend of contemporary architecture and minimalistic style with an authentic Sri Lankan touch, the Aliya Resort & Spa is set in the lush forests where elephants roam free. Rooms have been uniquely designed with the colors and motifs of Sri Lankan batik that come equipped with all modern comforts, illustrating a discreet opulence.
Visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiryia's Royal Gardens, boasting ancient water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders.
Visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiryia's Royal Gardens, boasting ancient water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders.
Climb Sigiriya Rock and admire breath-taking views over the lakes and villages below.
Climb Sigiriya Rock and admire breath-taking views over the lakes and villages below.
Visit this famous fortress set upon its prominent rocky outcrop.
Visit this famous fortress set upon its prominent rocky outcrop.
Your visit to the archaeological park will reveal what life in the area was like when the city was thriving, 800-years-ago.
Your visit to the archaeological park will reveal what life in the area was like when the city was thriving, 800-years-ago.
Today you’ll visit the colorful Dambulla Caves. Also known as the Golden Temple caves, this World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Take in its mighty artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha as you explore with your group. Later, arrive in Kandy. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest and tea plantations, this sacred city is famous for its Buddhist sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth shrine. Once here, you’ll enjoy a cultural evening of drums and a dance performance. Your accommodation for the evening is Mahaweli Reach. Located next to the mighty Mahaweli River, this traditional hotel is based in the hill capital of Sri Lanka and offers incredible culture, history and authentic dining options.
Nestled beside the mighty Mahaweli River, Mahaweli Reach Hotel is layered with refined luxury and old-world charm of an ancient kingdom. The property offers spacious rooms that combine traditional Sri Lankan style with luxury comforts.
See Raja Maha Vihara - the most impressive of Sri Lanka's Cave Temples.
See Raja Maha Vihara - the most impressive of Sri Lanka's Cave Temples.
Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the evening.
Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the evening.
In the morning head to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of Buddha, is located here. Later meet Rahju, a local artist, at his contemporary art gallery. Enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea. Continue to Nuwara Eliya. A city in Sri Lanka’s tea country hills, this pretty destination is famous for Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu shrine and Galway’s Land National Park. Stop for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience of Drum making, each drum tells a story, connecting the present with the rich history and traditions of Sri Lanka. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration. Learn to cook Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine with a local chef, before indulging in the fruits of your hard work.
Maintaining the British Colonial architecture, Grand Hotel has graciously evolved to perfectly blend with the tranquillity and beauty of Nuwara Eliya. Understated rooms surrounded by tropical greenery offer an elegant space and ambience.
Visit Rahju’s Contemporary Art Gallery, enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea.
Visit Rahju’s Contemporary Art Gallery, enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea.
Visit the site of the Sacred Tooth Relic Temple.
Visit the site of the Sacred Tooth Relic Temple.
Drum making in Sri Lanka is a fascinating craft deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions, this cultural heritage is passed down throug...
See MoreDrum making in Sri Lanka is a fascinating craft deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions, this cultural heritage is passed down through generations. The drums are produced by skilled artisans and are not only musical instruments, but they also play a vital role in religious ceremonies, traditional performances, and cultural events throughout the country. Each drum tells a story, connecting the present with the rich history and traditions of Sri Lanka. Your visit supports United Nations Sustainable Development Goal 11: Cities and Communities.
Rise early this morning for an excursion to Horton Plains for a trek to World's End, where a stunning escarpment plunges 880 meters down to the jungle floor. World’s End is situated in one of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka and is the only one where you are able to walk freely as there are no elephants. Stand in awe and capture incredible views of the expansive plateau, before mist and cloud obscure the scene. In the afternoon, learn everything there is to know about Ceylon tea during a visit to a tea plantation and garden. Walk through the plantation during plucking time and spend time with a tea plucker to learn about their life, before enjoying a tasting session hosted by an expert. In the evening, toast to your travels with your new friends over dinner at your hotel.
Maintaining the British Colonial architecture, Grand Hotel has graciously evolved to perfectly blend with the tranquillity and beauty of Nuwara Eliya. Understated rooms surrounded by tropical greenery offer an elegant space and ambience.
Join your Local Expert to visit a tea plantation and learn how this crop is produced. You'll even have the opportunity to experience the traditiona...
See MoreJoin your Local Expert to visit a tea plantation and learn how this crop is produced. You'll even have the opportunity to experience the traditional technique of tea-leaf picking, before sampling some of the freshest tea possible.
Your mouth-watering dinner features the best of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Your mouth-watering dinner features the best of Sri Lankan cuisine.
It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travelers, as your journey comes to an end. You’ll be driven back to Colombo airport for your onward flight, please schedule flights after 20:00. A stop will be made in Colombo for those extending their stay.
Learn more about the landmarks, history and culture that makes your destination special.
Head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the hidden treasures this city has to offer.
Take a panoramic city tour of Colombo including all the main sights and Pettah market.
Explore by Tuk-Tuk old Colombo town and cruise the city streets while watching the sun lower over the Indian ocean. See the city lights come alive ...
See MoreAscend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari in search for Sri Lanka's big four. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth b...
See MoreAscend deep into the lush, dense jungle on a jeep safari. Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, elephants, sloth bears and an array of colorful birds.
Meet a practising Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour through Ritigala Jungle and hear tales of the forest dwelling monks, a monastic comm...
See MoreExplore the temple complex, sprawling with a rich collection of archaeological wonders.
Visit the small community of Puranagama, to experience traditional village life.
Visit the beautifully landscaped Sigiryia's Royal Gardens, boasting ancient water features, terraced gardens and natural boulders.
Climb Sigiriya Rock and admire breath-taking views over the lakes and villages below.
Visit this famous fortress set upon its prominent rocky outcrop.
Your visit to the archaeological park will reveal what life in the area was like when the city was thriving, 800-years-ago.
See Raja Maha Vihara - the most impressive of Sri Lanka's Cave Temples.
Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the evening.
Visit Rahju’s Contemporary Art Gallery, enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea.
Visit the site of the Sacred Tooth Relic Temple.
Drum making in Sri Lanka is a fascinating craft deeply rooted in the country's culture and traditions, this cultural heritage is passed down throug...
See MoreJoin your Local Expert to visit a tea plantation and learn how this crop is produced. You'll even have the opportunity to experience the traditiona...
See More6 Dinners, 9 Breakfasts, 2 Lunchs
Enjoy dinner and drinks with your fellow travelers.
Your mouth-watering dinner features the best of Sri Lankan cuisine.
Stay at highly rated hotels in desirable locations offering superb service, superior rooms with comfy beds to rest in.
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