PRICE PER PERSON
- Twinshare โ $3295 AUD
- Single Room โ $3775AUD
The Essence of Sri Lanka
- 1-8 December 2024
- 7 Nights / 8 days
- Weather 22 - 31 C
- Fitness - Med 5 km per day
- Price Range - $$
Negomboย ~ Dambulla ~ Kandy ~ Ella ~ Mirissa ~ Galle ~ Colombo
Endless beaches, timeless ruins, welcoming people, oodles of elephants, rolling surf, great shopping, fun trains, famous tea and flavourful food describe Sri Lanka, we have created the perfect itinerary for you to see in 2024!ย
So Much in So Little โฆ
Few places have as many Unescoย World Heritage Sitesย (eight) packed into such a small area. Sri Lankaโs 2000-plus years of culture can be discovered at ancient sites where legendary temples boast beautiful details.
Donโt worry if you hear something go bump in the night it might just be an elephant heading to a favourite waterhole. On our Safari tours of Sri Lankaโs pleasantly relaxed national parks you may encounter leopards, water buffaloes, all manner of birds and primates.
Itโs So Easy โฆ
Distances are short: we can see the thriving metropolis of Colombo in the morning and stand awestruck by the sight of hundreds of elephants gathering in the afternoon (Minneriya). Discover a favourite beach, meditate in a 2000-year-old temple, exchange smiles while strolling a mellow village, marvel at birds and wildflowers, try to keep count of the little dishes that come with your rice and curry. Stroll past colonial gems in Galle, then hit the streets for some shopping.
Sri Lanka is spectacular, itโs affordable and itโs still often uncrowded, however we will be there in peak season. Now is the best time to discover it.
Highlandsย โฆ
When weโre ready to escape the tropical climate of the coast and lowlands, we head for a few nights in the hills, with their temperate, achingly green charms. Verdant tea plantations and rainforested peaks beckon photographers and walkers andย we will take ย a spectacular train journey to sit and gaze in amazement at the scenery.ย ย
Thisย isย Sriย Lanka,ย theย landย ofย Serendipityย โย ofย happyย surprises
ย Ella
Trip Highlights
Seeย UNESCO world heritage & cultural sites
Visitย national parksย and see theย wildlife
See amazingย Buddhist and Hindu Temples
Wander amongย Ceylon Tea Plantationsย andย Spice Gardens
Cooking demonstrationย with the localsย
Shop forย beautiful fabricย made from Dumbara cotton weaving andย sparkling gemstones
Dine on delicious local produce such asย tropical fruit, lobster and fish
Take aย train journeyย through this magical landscape
Relax on the tropical coast
Explore Historical Galleย
Can you feel your spirit lifting just at theย thought of it?
The Undiscovered Country
You might say Sri Lanka has been hiding in plain sight. Scores of travelers have passed overhead on their way to someplace else, but years of uncertainty kept Sri Lanka off many itineraries.
Now, however, all that has changed. The country is moving forward quickly as more and more people discover its myriad charms. Lying between the more trodden parts of India and Southeast Asia, Sri Lanka’s history, culture and natural beauty are undeniably alluring. It’s the place you haven’t been to yet, that you should.
There is a $500 deposit for this tour the remainder is to be paid 75 days prior to the start of the tour.ย
FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
Itinerary
Day 1 - 1 Dec 2024
Day 2 - 2 Dec 2024
Day 3 - 3 Dec 2024
Day 4 - 4 Dec 2024
Day 5 - 5 Dec 2024
Day 6 - 6 Dec 2024
Day 7 - 7 Dec 2024
Day 8 - 8 Dec 2024
Day 1 - 1 Dec 2024
DAY 1 – 1 December 2024
NEGOMBO – AYUBOWAN!!!
On arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by your tour representative before you proceed to Negombo.
This day has been set aside just for you to arrive and orientate yourself.ย
On arrival we check -in at Hotel. Transfer time โ less than 1 hour. *Please note that if flying from Australia you may not arrive to Colombo until 11.30pm. In this case you may like to book an extra night. The cost is $300 AUD per room per night and can be arranged by us. Your airport transfer will still be included if you choose to arrive a day early.
The Dutch captured the town from the Portuguese in 1640, lost it, and then captured it again in 1644. The British then took it from them in 1796 without a struggle. Negombo was one of the most important sources of cinnamon during the Dutch era, and there are still reminders of the European days.
Today has been set aside just for you to relax after your flight, take a dip in the pool or book anย ayurvedic spa treatmentย and start your tour right! Resting, recovering, rejuvenating. We have chosen Jetwing Lagoon as our first stop because of its quiet location.ย ย
Overnight – Jetwing Beach or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 2 - 2 Dec 2024
DAY 2: NEGOMBO TOUR
Join us for a delightful Sri Lankan breakfast and a refreshing swim before we depart for the quaint fishing village of Negombo. Take in the sights and sounds of the local fishing market and snap some photos of the vibrant boats before continuing our journey to Dambulla. This town is located in the heart of what is known as the Cultural Zone, featuring Sri Lankaโs ancient kingdoms.
Arrive Jetwing Lake, have a swim.
Late afternoon, people who want to can go to the Cave Temple just 15 minutes away. This temple has 272 stairs (tour is optional).
Enjoy a leisurely dinner and relaxing nights sleep at our hotel Jetwing Lake.
Overnight – Jetwing Beach or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 3 - 3 Dec 2024
DAY 03:ย SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS / SAFARI DRIVE
In the morning we visit the Rock Fortress of Sigiriya, one of the seven world heritage sites of the Island. For women who want to do the rock walk they can leave early around 6.30 and take a breakfast box. Finish around 9.30am. The van driver in the meantime can come back and pick up the other women who will be waiting in the car park where the stalls are for the rest of the group around 8.30 am after they have had breakfast and drive to Sigiriya to collect the others 9.30/10am.
Local Village Visit and lunch
Have you ever wanted to experience the true essence of a Sri Lankan village? Look no further than Hiriwadunna, a charming rural village in Habarana. Here, you can immerse yourself in the local culture and get a taste of authentic Sri Lankan cuisine through the Meet the Locals Cooking Demonstration and lunch.
The visit starts with a trip to the nearby vegetable cultivation, where you can handpick the freshest ingredients for your lunch. Then, it’s time to join the women of the village in their kitchen and learn about their traditional cooking methods. From the wood fire stove to the clay pots and ancient tools, you’ll get a glimpse into the rich culinary heritage of Sri Lanka.
But the highlight of the day is undoubtedly the mouth-watering lunch prepared by your new friends. With flavorful curries and fresh ingredients, you’ll get to taste home-cooked food at its best. And as you enjoy your meal, you’ll also get to chat with the locals and learn more about their way of life.
In the afternoon, we head to the local national park for a safari drive where we hope to see deer, many species of birds, monkeys and hopefully elephants. *The elephants move around between parks and are not always in locations close to where the park roads are. We cannot guarantee elephant sightings they are wild and do their own thing ๐
Return to our hotel Jetwing lake for drinks overlooking the lake
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 - 4 Dec 2024
DAY 04:ย ย DAMBULLA โ KANDY
After breakfast proceed to check out and leave by 9 am. On our way, we stop at the wood carving place and the Spice Garden. There are some great ayurvedic herbs, ointments and teas to be purchased her for a natural solution to many health ailments. We will take a guided tour and have a tea.
We then arrived at Kandy. This hill station is remarkable for the natural beauty of its setting in a peaceful wooded valley overlooking a vast artificial lake.
Check-in. Freshen up and prepare for a city tour via tuk tuk.
After the city tour, enjoy a cultural performance and then conclude our visits for the day by visiting the Temple of the Tooth. The octagonal -shaped building, (Dada Maligawa) is a national palladium for it houses the Tooth Relic of the Buddha, an object of veneration to Buddhists all over the world.
Dinner (*self pay)
Overnight stay at Radisson Hotel Kanydy or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 - 5 Dec 2024
DAY 05: KANDY TO ELLA
Breakfast at the hotel.
Thereafter we board the local train from Kandyโs Train station and catch the Odyssey train. Ella Odyssey train journey is one of most scenic and beautiful train journeys in Sri Lanka climbing through lush green tea estates / waterfalls / tunnels /valleys which create super scenic train ride. This train only goes twice a week, we have reserved first class tickets for our guest in air conditioned carriage. We will stop at the iconic 9 arches bridge for a photo opportuvnity.
Arrive to Ella in the late afternoon. Free time. Welcome to everyoneโs favorite hill-country village, and the place to ease off the travel accelerator with a few leisurely hours resting in some of the countryโs best guesthouses. The views through Ella Gap are stunning, and on a clear night you can even spy the subtle glow of the Great Basses lighthouse on Sri Lankaโs south coast.
Dinner (*self-pay). Lets try and find a cafe with some live music and lively hippy vibe consistent with thai pretty little hill town.
Overnight Onrock Hotel Ella or similar
Meals: Breakfast and Lunch
Day 6 - 6 Dec 2024
DAY 06: ELLA TO MATARA
Depart 9am for Matara and lunch at the Doctors House. This is a great cafรฉ owned by a couple of Australian Guys. A bit of free time to wander, have a swim or check out the stilt fishermen.ย
This afternoon check into your beachside accommodation, book a massage, relax by the pool, after all you are on holiday.
Overnight stay at Insight Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 - 7 Dec 2024
DAY 07: MIRISSA TO GALLE
After breakfast depart from the hotel and head to Handunugoda Tea Plantation. This is a lovely little tea plantation and offers guests a guided tour and tea and cake.
After the tea plantation tour, we then take a 45 minute to the historical town of Galle. We explore the cities landmarks and shop around. Visit the Galle fort, wander the many jewellery and clothing shops but be sure to head to the Galle Face for sunset followed by cocktails and dinner at a local favourite close to hour hotel.
Overnight stay at Heritage Hotel or similar
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 - 8 Dec 2024
DAY 8:ย GALLE โCOLOMBO โ AIRPORT
Breakfast at leisure.
Today we leave for Colombo, the commercial capital of Sri Lanka for a tour of sightseeing. It is a 3 hours drive from Galle to Colombo and you will be dropped at the airport late afternoon around 5pm.
Today, Colombo is a fascinating city โ a happy blend of east & west, past & present, with a charm of its own. A less known but amazingly true fact is that Colombo has a superb range of high quality restaurants serving food from all over the world and some of the best shopping opportunities in Asia.
We will visit The Geoffrey Bawa residence is considered a special architectural marvel which also houses art and artifacts from the collection of the Late Architect.
We also visit the Old Dutch Hospital, which has been impressively restored and now holds eateries, bars, boutique stores and spas. Constructed all of four centuries ago, the building is a resounding example of eastern Dutch architecture with high ceilings, thick walls, large wide windows and terracotta tiled floors.
Late afternoon we will head to the Jetwing 7 Hotel for a last sundowner watching the sunset of Colombo and dinner before being taken to the airport.
Thereafter you will be transferred to the airport in time for your departure flight. Transfer time โ 45 minutes. (Airport โ Colombo expressway).
Inclusions
- Fully Escorted with your Vibrant Women Host and local English Speaking guide
- All transfers in Sri Lanka by deluxe, fully air-conditioned vehicle as mentioned in the program.
- Airport transfers on arrival and departure days
- 7 Nights accommodation on bed and breakfast basis
- All entrance fees as described in itinerary
- Traditional lunch day 3
- 4ร4 Jeep safari at the Minneriya National park (5 guests to a jeep).
- Reserved train tickets for the train ride from Kandy to Nanu-oya.
- Picnic lunch during the train ride.
- Guided Tour of Colombo
- Optional visit to Galle Fort
- Drive by visit to morning markets Negombo
- Visit the Rock Fortress of Sigiriya
- Tea Plantation Visit and Tasting
What is not included
- International Airfares to and from Sri Lanka
- Entry visa to Sri Lanka (approx. AUD 60 per person).
- Airport Transfers before the arrival and departure dates will be charged at $35 each way per person and can be arranged for you.
- Early check-in on arrival and late check-out at the time of departure if applicable.
- Lunches and Dinners
- Personal purchases
- Drinks and alcohol purchases
- Tipping, We suggest $15 per person per day and collect this at the beginning of the trip to be distributed amongst out drivers, hotel staff and guides. Or you can add to your invoice if you prefer which would be $120AUD.
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
ACCOMMODATION
Sri Lankaโs has some lovely locations and hotels, from pristine beaches to lush mountain retreats and rural hideaways; lavish colonial splendour and chic modern luxury and award winning architectural design.
For your journey we have chosen a selection of 3 and 4 * hotels to enhance our travel experience.ย In addition to comfortable, contemporary and clean accommodations our hotels also offer other indulgences; from fine cuisine to sensuous spa treatments to Ayurvedic healing. And plenty to do too: extreme action or quiet meditation, a myriad of wonders both natural and man-made to explore and a wealth of culture and tradition to experience as well. We also aim to provide you with some down time toย indulge in a massage, or cocktail as the sunsets. Tammie is happy to offer some yoga classes along the way if people are so inclined, perhaps outside overlooking a lush landscape.
MEALS
Sri Lankan cuisine has been shaped by many historical, cultural and other factors. Contact with foreign traders who brought new food items, cultural influences from neighbouring countries as well as the local traditions of the countryโs ethnic groups among other things have all helped shape Sri Lankan cuisine. Influences from Indian (particularly South Indian), Indonesian and Dutch cuisines are most evident with Sri Lankan cuisine sharing close ties to other neighbouring South and Southeast Asian cuisines. Today, some of the staples of Sri Lankan cuisine are rice, coconut and spices. The latter are used due to the countryโs history as a spice producer and trading post over several centuries
SHOPPING
Sri Lanka offers a wide array of shopping items, the most recognized being gems, batik, tea, and handicrafts. The most popular items among tourists are handloom fabrics, leather products, reproduction antiques, jewellery and ceramics.
What our guests say about our Sri Lanka Tour
5/5
"This was my first time in Sri Lanka, which I joined straight after Colours of India. This was a group of 16 ladies, none of whom I had met before. I was welcomed like I had known them for ages. We had a fabulous time in this beautiful country. Everything fell into place, the transport, accommodation, food etc. The highlights for me being the spectacular scenery on the train trip up into the mountains to Ella and time spent at the beach around Galle. Lots of laughs and companionship. Thanks Tammie and Sandy for making this trip so special."
Christine S.
Sri Lanka March 2024
5/5
"Our Vibrant Women trip to Sri Lanka was amazing. Tammie led us through an amazing experience and always without fail smoothed any issues for our group. A beautiful group of women who shared the adventurous spirit to make this a very special and memorable experience. The accommodation was clean and comfortable and always interesting. The food was delicious. Thank you Vibrant Women for another fabulous holiday."
Jennifer L.
Sri Lanka March 2024
5/5
"My first time travelling with Vibrant Women tours and I had an amazing trip to Sri Lanka. Well organised every step of the way. Stayed in fantastic hotels and met some incredible women. Highly recommend travelling with this group, either on your own or with a friend."
Joanne E.
Sri Lanka March 2024
5/5
"The experience was very well balanced. Food, history, artisan insight, architecture, cultural immersion and self reflection and self nurturing. Generally a good overview of people and place. I went with an open book hungry to learn and be guided by those who had insight into cultural protocols of this magic country. To be honest I paid little attention to many of the finer details as I knew Tammie and knew that it would be an unforgettable experience. I have been successfully seduced!"
Marg
2018
Trip Notes
The Trip Notes on this link are always the most up to date version. When booking a tour in advance things can change, please always refer to these notes on the website as the most recent version of trip notes for your tour.
You will be provided with printed trip notes upon arrival.ย
Frequently Asked Questions
Arrivals and Departures
Entry Requirements
Cancellation Policy
Terms and Conditions
Fitness Requirements
Important Guest Information Form
Dietary Requirements
Extra nights accommodation
Arrivals and Departures
Arrival and Departure
Arrivals and Departures are from Bandaranaike International Airport Colombo Sri Lanka. Colombo airport is a not a large airport and easy to navigate, you will find your driver waiting for you with a sign with your name on it as you enter the arrivals hall. If for some reason you cannot find your driver please call one of the numbers above.
Airport Transfers on arrival and departure days are included. Airport transfer before or after the arrival days will be $35AUD each way per person and can be arranged for you, however please note there will be no tour guides available before or after the tour to assist you so please take this into consideration when booking your flights. Please let us know if you need any extras after booking your flights by completing the Important Guest information form HERE
Accommodation:
Hotel on arrival โ JETWING BEACH NEGOMBO
Address: Porutota Road, Ethukale, Negombo 11500, Sri Lanka
Phone: +94 312 273 500
Kindly note that check in time to all hotels will be at 1400hrs and check out is at 1200 noon.
Entry Requirements
You’ll need a visa in the form of an Electronic Travel Authority to enter Sri Lanka. Sri Lanka has introduced Digital Arrival & Departure Cards, which can be completed three days prior to travel. Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice.
For VISA
Before visiting Sri Lanka, do the following to get a 30-day visa:
- Visit the Sri Lanka electronic visa website (https://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/) a few weeks before arriving.
- Follow the online application process and pay with a credit or debit card.
- Once approved, print out the visa confirmation.
For Digital Arrival Cards click HERE
Your arrival address is โ Jetwing Beach: Address: Porutota Road, Ethukale, Negombo 11500, Sri Lanka Phone:ย +94 312 273 500.
Cancellation Policy
Up until 75 days before the start of the tour a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained. For between 75 days and 45 days, 50% of the final payment, this is in addition to the non refundable, non-transferable deposit will be forfeited. For less than 45 days or for no shows the entire amount will be retained as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport, flights and activities, and this money will not be returned to us. Once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you. This is why travel insurance is compulsory.
Terms and Conditions
Please read our “Terms and Conditions” HERE
Fitness Requirements
This sightseeing tour has several walking tours and many stairs, you require a moderate level of fitness to attend. We can walk around 5km a day so you really need to be prepared. Please note you must wear practical and comfortable walking shoes or sandals for your own safety, road and paths are very uneven. Two of the sights we visit have lots of stairs, one has 600 and the other 1200! Get some training in or be prepared to wait while the others tackle itย 
Important Guest Information Form
Please complete and return your important guest information form to us 60 days before departure. Click HERE
Dietary Requirements
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate complex dietary issues on our tours. If it is something you an manage yourself that is fine. But we cannot be responsible for peoples health and wellbeing in regards to food in foreign countries as sometimes things get lost in translation. We hope you understand. We don’t ever want our guests to become unwell whilst travelling with us.
Extra nights accommodation
Extra nights accommodation will be charged at $300AUD per night and include breakfast.
Please note that organising tours so far in advance means that sometimes the program has to change due to changes in flight schedules or other for other reasons, please allow for this.
