Affordable Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka offers an unparalleled holiday experience – from its beautiful beaches and wildlife, to its rich culture and history.
Price per person
US$ 1247
20th Oct to 28th Oct 2024
8 nights, 9 day tour
AFFORDABLE SRI LANKA
Negombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Yala National Park, Galle, Colombo
Seductive beaches and tempting water sports, magnificent landscapes featuring lazy lagoons, fertile wetlands, ecologically-wondrous types of forest, imposing mountains, bounteous rivers and waterfalls, an abundance of wildlife – much of it endemic unique ecosystems, inspiring heritage sites from ancient cities to colonial forts, a vibrant culture including fine arts and crafts and grand festivals, and people of diverse ethnicity and religious persuasion, charming and hospitable. This small island offers travellers a plethora of delights – historical, cultural and natural, all without travelling too far. Immerse yourself in Colombo’s street market, visit the Dutch colonial fort at Galle, walking the narrow cobbled streets lined with boutiques, museums and cafes. A scenic drive through what is arguably the island’s most attractive region, the tea growing area. Spend time visiting a local turtle sanctuary or village market. The cuisine is delicious and unique, a must for lovers of fresh seafood..
Highlights
- Visit to Yalla National Park and surrounding Pilgrimage sites
- Red Mosque and Pettah Market
- Tea Factory and Gem Museum
- Turtle Farm and Elephant Orphanage
- Madu River Boat Ride
- Cultural Dance Show
- Complimentary Head and Shoulder Massage at Spice Market
About Lux Journeys
Lux Journeys was founded by Rose to provide exclusive, guided tours to select groups, visiting some of the world’s most incredible destinations. Each tour’s itinerary is designed to immerse the traveller in the culture and history of the countries being visited, delivering unforgettable memories and experiences.
Itinerary
Arrive to Bandaranaike International airport. You will be met by our representative and will be garlanded with “Orchid / Frangipani” flowers. Upon arrival into Colombo, transfer to your hotel in Negombo for overnight
Drive to Kandy, enroute visit Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage, where an orphanage was started in 1975 to house the abandoned and the wounded elephants. The number of elephants has increased to more than 40 now, including baby elephants brought from various parts, as well as the babies born, as a result of the captive breeding programme.
Visit a Spice Garden at Matale – you will see gardens where Cinnamon, Cardamom, Pepper Creepers and all other spice trees, plants and creepers are planted for visitors to see them. Spice products are also available for those who would like to buy them.
A qualified guide will do a conducted tour of the garden and a presentation of its products.
Enjoy a special head and shoulder massage at the spice garden.
Drive to Hotel for Dinner and Overnight
Morning visit Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – To Buddhists of Sri Lanka and the world, Kandy is one of the most sacred sites as it is the home of the “Dalada Maligawa” – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.
Afternoon: Visit Kandy including Market Square, Arts & Crafts Centre, Gem Museum and the Lake which is a dominating part of Kandy city. The lake is charming and peaceful and is our absolute favorite part of Kandy.
Kandy and its satellite villages are the centre of the islands handicraft industry (items of wood, brass & silver) exquisite silver or gold jewellery and precious gems of many varieties including the world’s best blue and star sapphires
Evening witness a Cultural Show featuring various dance types of Sri Lanka.
Overnight: Dinner and Overnight Kandy
Drive to Nuwara Eliya, enroute visit Batik Factory – where you can see the manufacture of beautiful Batik prints. These shops contain a wide variety of Batik items. Visit Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya- Its treasures of tropical flora include fine collections of orchids, aromatic spices, medicinal herbs, palms and rare endangered plant species. These gardens were the naturally camouflaged operations headquarters of SEAC Supreme Allied Commander, Lord Louis Mountbatten during the 2nd World War. Ramboda Waterfalls – Ramboda Falls is one of the highest waterfalls in Sri Lanka, standing at over one hundred meters tall, and is undoubtedly one of Sri Lanka’s most picturesque.
Arrive Nuwara Eliya & check in at Hotel for Dinner and Overnight
Nuwara Eliya, also known as Sri Lanka’s “Little England”, is the prime hill resort of the country. Its nickname comes from the many English style bungalows and buildings still in existence. During the colonial times, it was a popular mountain resort and has retained its popularity.
Optional – Adams Peak Visit
Believed to be the place where Adam first stepped foot on earth when He was cast down from heaven. This Mountain is revered by so many Religions, making it a unique experience which is believed to be sacred. Adam’s Peak ‘s is a pilgrimage for every religion, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians and Hindus. Each religion believes it to be their deity and it is wonderful that they can come together in harmony during the pilgrimage season of December – May
Adam’s peak is therefore considered the footprint of the Buddha in Buddhism.
Hindus believe that Adam’s Peak is the giant footstep of Lord Shiva.
It is considered the original Garden of Eden
And Muslims believe it to be the footprint of Adam.
Early morning or late night on (Day 04) with the breakfast packets you will proceed to Adams Peak with the 80 km from your hotel with the approximate 02 Hrs 45 minutes you will reach to the bottom of Adams Peak, it is a tracking process you need to equip it with tracking shoe/jacket/Fully covered bottom / hat and if necessary, the Winter Glues,
If you start climbing early morning you will not feel tired by the time you reach to the top of Adams Peak, where you can see the sun rise. Climb down the peak and returned to the hotel.
Later in the day, visit Nuwara Eliya, – Nuwara Eliya, also known as Sri Lanka’s “Little England”, is the prime hill resort of the country. Its nickname comes from the many English style bungalows and buildings still in existence. During the colonial times, it was a popular mountain resort and has retained its popularity.
Visit Gorges rolling tea plantation, which makes the best “Ceylon tea” and the breathtaking beautiful waterfalls makes Nuwara Eliya one of the most beautiful towns in the world. Nuwara Eliya also has one of the finest 18 hole golf courses in South Asia. You can visit the Strawberry Farms & pick some strawberries. Or you can take a nice evening walk around the Gregory Lake. Visit the beautiful club house & have a hot cup of Ceylon Tea . Enjoy a peddling boat ride at your own expense.
Dinner at Grand Indian restaurant. Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
Believed to be the place where Adam first stepped foot on earth when He was cast down from heaven. This Mountain is revered by so many Religions, making it a unique experience which is believed to be sacred. Adam’s Peak ‘s is a pilgrimage for every religion, Muslims, Buddhists, Christians and Hindus. Each religion believes it to be their deity and it is wonderful that they can come together in harmony during the pilgrimage season of December – May
Adam’s peak is therefore considered the footprint of the Buddha in Buddhism.
Hindus believe that Adam’s Peak is the giant footstep of Lord Shiva.
It is considered the original Garden of Eden
And Muslims believe it to be the footprint of Adam.
Early morning or late night on (Day 04) with the breakfast packets you will proceed to Adams Peak with the 80 km from your hotel with the approximate 02 Hrs 45 minutes you will reach to the bottom of Adams Peak, it is a tracking process you need to equip it with tracking shoe/jacket/Fully covered bottom / hat and if necessary, the Winter Glues,
If you start climbing early morning you will not feel tired by the time you reach to the top of Adams Peak, where you can see the sun rise. Climb down the peak and returned to the hotel.
Later in the day, visit Nuwara Eliya, – Nuwara Eliya, also known as Sri Lanka’s “Little England”, is the prime hill resort of the country. Its nickname comes from the many English style bungalows and buildings still in existence. During the colonial times, it was a popular mountain resort and has retained its popularity.
Visit Gorges rolling tea plantation, which makes the best “Ceylon tea” and the breathtaking beautiful waterfalls makes Nuwara Eliya one of the most beautiful towns in the world. Nuwara Eliya also has one of the finest 18 hole golf courses in South Asia. You can visit the Strawberry Farms & pick some strawberries. Or you can take a nice evening walk around the Gregory Lake. Visit the beautiful club house & have a hot cup of Ceylon Tea . Enjoy a peddling boat ride at your own expense.
Dinner at Grand Indian restaurant. Overnight: Nuwara Eliya
Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. It’s home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species. Inland, Sithulpawwa is an ancient Buddhist monastery. Nearby caves contain centuries-old rock paintings. Southwest, Magul Maha Viharaya also has ancient Buddhist ruins. Both are pilgrimage sites.
After The Safari ( Approximately 2 .5 hrs Drive to the Hotel )
Arrive and check in Hotel .
Dinner and Overnight: Galle
Breakfast at the hotel and proceed to boat ride on Madu river- you can see huge mangrove forest by the river banks. You can see many birds and animals who are living in this aquatic environment.
Visit Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda, located in Kosgoda is famous for several species of turtles, especially the endangered hawksbills. Eggs which are left uncovered on beaches all around the coast are brought by fishermen of Kosgoda area, which has led to the hatching and release of 100,000 young turtles in only two years since the hatchery opened.
Seafood Lunch at local restaurant,
Afternoon visit Galle – Sri Lanka’s most historically interesting town is Galle. It was a major port until about 100 years. Walk around the lighthouse and harbor or visit the old town where you can see the traditional lace makers and wood carvers and purchase some the finest souvenirs. The Dutch Fort – The South Coast’s major city is Galle, whose oldest landmark is the massive Portuguese and Dutch Fort, which is a “World Heritage Site” in which the central city is contained.
Overnight Galle
Post breakfast, check out and drive to Negombo.
Transfer to the port of Negombo and Time permitting, Visit the nearby fishing villages to see day to day life and visit the fish market to see the daily catch of fish. Also, vegetable market and the traditional fishing catamarans with sails returning to shore. See also the modern-day fishing crafts anchored in the lagoon with the Old Dutch fortress at the background with boat ride. The canal was at one time an important linking the transportation route which supplied the Dutch colonial administration.
Check in to the hotel for Dinner and Overnight
This City Tour of Colombo focuses on exploring the commercial capital of Sri Lanka-Colombo. Bustling with energy all day long, this is a city of vibrant colors and rich culture, offering fascinating insights into the national psyche of Sri Lanka. During your brief stay, you will be able to visit the old Wolfendale Dutch Church (built in 1749), a Hindu Temple. On your way around the city, you will also witness a plethora of shopping malls housing designer brands, beautifully landscaped gardens and colonial precincts such as the Dutch Hospital and more.
You can visit the Red Mosque at Colombo also from inside ( if permission granted )
After sightseeing and shopping enjoy a late Lunch at a local restaurant Transfer to the airport in time for your flight home
Book by 30th September to secure your place
Affordable Sri Lanka
Don't miss out on this opportunity to see this enthralling country and its wonders.
Enquire to bookEnvisaged hotels or similar
Kandy – Cinnamon Citadel – Superior Room x2 nights
Nuwara Eliya – Araliya Green Hills – Deluxe Room x2 nights
Galle – Radisson Blu Resort – Deluxe Sea View Room x2 nights
Negombo – Jetwing Beach Hotel – Deluxe Room x2 nights
Inclusions
Domestic Flights
All Airport Transfers
Transport in air-conditioned vehicle with English Speaking Guide
All Sightseeing including entrance fees
Meals – Half Board throughout (except arrival day or unless specified)
Accommodation in Hotel on double occupancy basis
Exclusions
- International Flights
- Visa Fees to enter the Country
- Tips and Porterage to Tour Guide and Driver
- Any Optional Excursions you may wish to take
- Any Beverages during included lunches and dinners
- Early check in or Late check out
- Camera and Video permit charges ( if applicable )
- Any other expense not mentioned like in the inclusion section
- Any phone calls or internet usage ( not included in the accommodation )
- Departure PCR Test
Gulzar Amlani
I travelled on a back to back trip to Egypt and Turkey with Exotic Vacations and was impressed with how well organized the tour leader’s arrangements were (confirmation of tours, procurement of airline tickets etc. ) I can’t say enough good things about our tour leader’s interpersonal skills, attention to details and general ability to be aware of the need of each individual traveler. It exceeded my expectations. The tour guides were excellent and very knowledgeable. Our drivers were extremely punctual , reliable and skillful. I felt safe and well looked after at all times. I was impressed with the quality and service of the Hotels. Meals were all fantastic. The program gave us the right time of free time as well as organized activities. It is not possible for me to indicate how excellent the tour was. Everything was perfect and I would have to say it was the vacation of my life. I will highly recommend it to the people I know.
Thank you so very much Shyrose ,for having arranged the magnificent trip we took
Colette
We got back from India last night and this is a thank you letter to let you know that everything went extremely well. We were always well looked after from the airport, to the guides, to the drivers (they are amazing drivers considering the traffic in India), to the train. The drivers and guides were always on time, knowledgeable, pleasant, ready to help us.
Looking back on our trip, it was an amazing experience, as Liz said “there are some things that cannot be described, only experienced” this is so true of India. The hotels we stayed at were extremely luxurious, always welcoming. The lunches at all the different hotels we went to, were well prepared, delicious, very tasty.
Thank you very much Rose, for making our trip to India one of the most exciting, colourful, meaningful experience.
Fias
Shy, Mansoor, Arif and Shehzad were amazing and we really had a grand time, Thank You for all the help, we had a very positive experience.
You and the Boys in Dubai are the Best – You Guys Rock!
Kendrea
Just wanted to send you a thank you for helping me organize my early flight back. I’m happy to let you know that the airport taxi was in front of the hotel at precisely 7 am for me and was very helpful and friendly. You made what was a stressful time for me a little bit easier and I am extremely appreciative.
Mel
I wanted to thank you so much for such a wonderful trip to India. You made my first experience to India so memorable. I really can’t thank you enough. You went beyond my expectations.I hope to do more trips with you in the future
Ira
Rose, there are no words to explain how lucky I was to have you supporting us on our trip. I know you do that to all clients – you got it or not !!! You definitely Got It !!!
Tu Anh Khong
Thank very much for the tour to Turkey. It was perfect about every thing,hotel,food,seesights… every things. The tour guide,mr. Tunc and the Driver,mr. Birol are very nice,too I have a perfect trip,the best trip so far.. So,thank you very much again.
Dan and Velta Smith
Just to let you know that we retrieved the passports and flew into Istanbul OK. What a huge relief. We never thought such a thing would happen to us as we have travelled as independent travellers many many times all over the world, but as my husband likes to say “never say never” !!
Lorena & Emil
I also wanted to say thank you for an amazing trip in Dubai, we really enjoyed the tours included, the hotel, and the guides and driver. we only wish there was more time 🙂
we definitely look forward to future exotic trips with your company.
Doris Thompson
Just arrived back from Dubai and I am writing to thank you for the great vacation. It was truly remarkable, well organized and upto a high standard. The tours were all very well picked and totally showed the ambiance and hospitality of the Emirates.Everything was remarkable and thank you for the hard work you put into such a great memory.
Dr. Robert R., Mrs. Susan R.
We recently toured Turkey and Dubai with Exotic Vacations, and we thoroughly enjoyed both trips.
The cost was reasonable, and in the time available we experienced much more of the culture and history of these areas than we could have if we had been travelling on our own.
The local guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Having worked on occasion as tour leaders ourselves, we understand what is involved and we salute Rose for her dedication.
Avrum and Susan
Just a short note to say that we had a really good time in Turkey. The food exceeded my expectations and our tour leader was truly exceptional. Not only was he very knowledgeable and articulate but he bought history alive for us with his passion and enthusiasm. Overall the trip was both educational and enjoyable.
Thank you for putting together such a well thought out and interesting tour!