Tour Overview
Embark on a "Romantic Escape, Private Tour" through the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka. This cultural journey begins in the charming fishing village of Negombo, known for its colonial Dutch architecture. Explore the majestic Sigiriya Rock Fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and witness the diverse wildlife at Minneriya National Park. Discover the vibrant culture of Kandy and the lush Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya. Experience the cool climes and scenic vistas of Nuwara Eliya, and the thrill of white-water rafting on the Kelani River. Conclude your adventure in the bustling city of Colombo, blending modernity with historical charm. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, delectable meals, and private transportation throughout this unforgettable 10-night tour. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : ARRIVAL NEGOMBO
Location: Negombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jetwing Sea Hotel or similar 4*
Meals Included: Dinner
Meet and greet on arrival at the airport by a representative and transfer to Negombo. Just seven kilometres from the Bandaranaike International Airport, at the tip of the Negombo lagoon, lays the pristine Negombo beach. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Negombo. Please note alcohol will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious holidays.
Overnight in Negombo.
Day 2 : NEGOMBO – RIDIGAMA – DAMBULLA – HABARANA (170km – 4hrs)
Location: Dambulla
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a delectable breakfast, proceed to Dambulla. In-route to the city of Dambulla, stop in a small village called Ridigama (Silver village), hidden away behind is a small monastery cave temple of Ridi Vihara. The huge boulder that looms over the whole temple complex is home to the local wild bee population. Their nests bulge below the overhang. Continue to Dambulla. The Dambulla Rock Temple has a rich history which dates to the first century BC. and is a famed World Heritage Site on the island. The most impressive of Sri Lanka’s cave complexes, the temple is made up of five caverns which showcase various paintings, sculptures and over 150 images of Lord Buddha. The highlight is the colossal figure of reclining Buddha which has been carved entirely out of rock and spans 14 meters. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Habarana.
Overnight in Habarana.
Day 3 : HABARANA – SIGIRIYA – MINNERIYA – HABARANA (100km – 2hrs)
Location: Habarana
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a rich breakfast at the hotel and then climb the fifth century Sigiriya Rock Fortress. (Hike approx.2/3hrs). During your ascent, you will be able to take in the iconic frescos of the cloud maidens, known as the ‘’Apsaras’’, the Mirror Wall and the gigantic lion paws which lead up to the summit. Where one can appreciate the panoramic views of the region along with the ancient ruins of palaces. Evening safari in Minneriya. In October, you will get the chance to observe the famous, ‘’Gathering’’, of wild jumbos, along with the banks of the Minneriya. The park is also home to over 160 species of birds,25 reptile species, 26 fish species and more than 78 butterfly species among an array of abundant wildlife. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Kandalama.
Overnight in Habarana.
Day 4 : HABARANA – TRINCOMALEE (100km – 2hrs)
Location: Trincomalee
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Trinco Blu or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Indulge in a delicious breakfast and proceed to Trincomalee. Housing one of the largest natural harbours in the world, Trincomalee is home to pristine beaches and an amazing multicultural town with a history dating back to the times of Marco Polo. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Trincomalee.
Overnight in Trincomalee.
Day 5 : TRINCOMALEE
Location: Trincomalee
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Trinco Blu or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Recharge your energies with a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a slow day of rest and relaxation. Alternatively, you can choose to go on the following Optional Tour (not included). Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Trincomalee.
Pigeon Island: enjoy a spot of snorkelling in the reef surrounding it. Set off on a boat ride, to get up close to playful pods of spinner dolphins who will perform fun acrobatics to your applause. If you are lucky, you might even get the chance to catch glimpse of blue whales and humpback whales.
Overnight in Trincomalee.
Day 6 : TRINCOMALEE – KANDY (180km – 3hrs)
Location: Kandy
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Earls Regent or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After a rich breakfast at the hotel proceed to Kandy. Pay a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and seek the blessing of the Triple Gem. Take a relaxing stroll under shady pathways bordering the Kandy Lake, after which you can visit the local markets to soak in the charm of the local community. Evening – Watch a cultural show, and enjoy dinner at a hotel in Kandy.
Overnight in Kandy.
Day 7 : KANDY – PERADENIYA – NUWARA ELIYA (80km – 2.5hrs)
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Jetwings St Andrews or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
After breakfast, visit The Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya which was first built as a pleasure garden by a Sinhala king and was expanded by the British. Transfer from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya. Visit a sprawling tea plantation and factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here, you could observe the manufacturing process which includes grading and packaging. End your excursion with a freshly brewed cup of fragrant Ceylon Tea. Whilst delighting travellers with its breath-taking beauty, Nuwara Eliya is also home to one of the finest 18-hole golf course in South Asia. This town plays a pivotal role in the world’s tea industry as the tea produced in this region alone accounts for a substantial portion of the tea export market. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Overnight in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 8 : NUWARAELIYA – KITULGALA – BENTOTA (215km – 5hrs)
Location: Bentota
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Avani Bentota or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Delight in a tasty breakfast at the hotel and hop on the transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Bentota. In-route visit St. Clair and Devon waterfalls cascading down majestically amidst verdant splendour. In-route visit Kitulgala. The Kelani River. Get the chance to enjoy the thrilling sense of adventure which comes with a white-water rafting adventure, in a jungle. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Bentota.
Overnight in Bentota.
Day 9 : BENTOTA
Location: Bentota
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Avani Bentota or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy a delicious breakfast at the hotel before enjoying a slow day of rest and relaxation. Alternatively, you can choose to go on the following Optional Tour (not included): Boat Ride down Madhu River. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Bentota.
Overnight in Bentota.
Day 10 : BENTOTA – COLOMBO (80km – 1.5hrs)
Location: Colombo
Accommodation: Hotel
Accommodation Name: Ozo Colombo or similar 4*
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Breakfast at the Hotel & transfer to Colombo. Colombo is the trade capital of Sri Lanka and is a city that has undergone rapid changes. While most old buildings have been replaced by new apartments and office buildings, some parts in the city yet retain its old-world charm. The 100-year-old clock tower built by the British and some colonial buildings remain as examples. Independence Square, Nelum Pokuna, Pettah Bazaar, and BMICH are some of the main highlights to be seen. Colombo also provides ample entertainment in terms of an active nightlife as well as a shopping experience you'd never forget. Savour a delectable dinner at a hotel in Colombo.
Overnight in Colombo.
Day 11 : DEPARTURE COLOMBO
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
After one last breakfast proceed to the airport to connect the departure flight.
What's Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with English-speaking chauffeur-guide, other languages upon booking of the optional extra
ACCOMMODATION:
- 10 night’s accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo
Superior Hotel Category = Jetwing Sea Hotel or similar 4*
Day 2, 3 Habarana
Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar 4*
Day 4, 5 Trincomalee
Superior Hotel Category = Trinco Blu or similar 4*
Day 6 Kandy
Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
Day 7 Nuwaraeliya
Superior Hotel Category = Jetwings St Andrews or similar 4*
Day 8, 9 Bentota
Superior Hotel Category = Avani Bentota or similar 4*
Day 10 Colombo
Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Colombo or similar 4*
MEALS:
- 10 Breakfasts
- 10 Dinners
TRANSPORT:
- Arrival and departure private transfer from/to Bandaranaike International Airport
- Private transportation in an air-conditioning vehicle throughout the tour
ENTRANCE FEES & ACTIVITIES:
- All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Silver Temple, Dambulla, Sigiriya Rock, Minneriya Safari, Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, Cultural Show in Kandy, Botanical Garden in Peradeniya, White-water rafting in Kitulgala
OTHER:
- Meet & Greet
- Government taxes
What's Not Included
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Visa Fees
Visa fees are not included.
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Flights
Domestic and international flights are not included.
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Lunches
Lunches are available upon an additional cost (full-board extra).
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Drinks
Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise) are not included.
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Wildlife Park Visits
Visits to wildlife parks will be at client's own risk. Safari vehicles (non-air-conditioned) available are very basic with basic insurance cover.
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Guide on Departure Day
The guide is not available for the departure day.
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Optional Tours
Optional tours (if any) are not included.
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Unmentioned Visits
Any visit not mentioned in the program is not included.
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Porterage and Gratuities
Porterage and gratuities are not included.
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Personal Expenditures
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program are not included.
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Additional Fees
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any) are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc. are not included.
Requirements
Visitors of both genders have to wear decent clothing to cover the body appropriately when visiting religious places and shorts and sleeveless tops are not acceptable. This rule is strictly adhered to at all religious sites especially the Sacred Bo Tree and Stupas in Anuradhapura and the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy. Visitors should remove hats, caps, shoes when entering to religious places.
Please Note
- Please note alcohol will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious holidays
- We reserve the right to change itineraries and activities due to weather conditions, technical problems or security reasons
- Early check-in, late check-out, connecting or adjoining rooms in the hotel are subject to availability and not guaranteed.
- No refund for unused services. Splitting of the package is not allowed
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo
- Superior Hotel Category = Jetwing Sea Hotel or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Trinco Blu or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Jetwings St Andrews or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Avani Bentota or similar 4*
- Superior Hotel Category = Ozo Colombo or similar 4*
Accommodation options
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Negombo
- Superior Hotel Category = Jetwing Sea Hotel or similar 4*
Day 2, 3 Habarana
- Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village by Cinnamon or similar 4*
Day 4, 5 Trincomalee
- Superior Hotel Category = Trinco Blu or similar 4*
Day 6 Kandy
- Superior Hotel Category = Earls Regent or similar 4*
Day 7 Nuwaraeliya
- Superior Hotel Category = Jetwings St Andrews or similar 4*
Day 8, 9 Bentota
- Superior Hotel Category = Avani Bentota or similar 4*
Day 10 Colombo
- Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Colombo or similar 4*
Mode of Transport
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour, including arrival and departure transfers from/to Bandaranaike International Airport.
Accommodation
Enjoy 10 nights of superior accommodation in 4-star hotels, including Jetwing Sea Hotel in Negombo, Habarana Village by Cinnamon, Trinco Blu in Trincomalee, Earls Regent in Kandy, Jetwings St Andrews in Nuwara Eliya, Avani Bentota, and Ozo Colombo.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of guide will be provided during the tour?
The tour will be operated with an English-speaking chauffeur-guide. Other languages are available upon booking of the optional extra.
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What meals are included in the tour package?
The tour package includes 10 breakfasts and 10 dinners. Additionally, 9 lunches are available at an extra cost as part of the full-board optional extra.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
Private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle is provided throughout the tour. Arrival and departure private transfers from/to Bandaranaike International Airport are also included.
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Are entrance fees to attractions included in the tour package?
Yes, all entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary are included. This includes visits to the Silver Temple, Dambulla, Sigiriya Rock, Minneriya Safari, Sacred Tooth Relic Temple, Cultural Show, Botanical Garden, White-water rafting, Mask Factory Ambalangoda, and Gangaramaya Temple. ...more ...less
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What are the accommodation options during the tour?
The tour includes 10 nights of accommodation in superior hotel categories. Specific hotels include Jetwing Sea Hotel in Negombo, Habarana Village by Cinnamon in Habarana, Trinco Blu in Trincomalee, Earls Regent in Kandy, Jetwings St Andrews in Nuwara Eliya, Avani Bentota in Bentota, and Ozo Colombo in Colombo or similar 4-star hotels. ...more ...less
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Is there any special clothing requirement for visiting religious places?
Yes, visitors of both genders are required to wear decent clothing that covers the body appropriately when visiting religious places. Shorts and sleeveless tops are not acceptable. Visitors should also remove hats, caps, and shoes when entering religious places.
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Are there any optional tours available during the trip?
Yes, there are optional tours available. For example, on Day 5 in Trincomalee, you can choose to go on a snorkelling trip to Pigeon Island or a boat ride to see dolphins and possibly whales. On Day 9 in Bentota, you can opt for a boat ride down the Madhu River.
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What is the policy on alcohol during the tour?
Alcohol will not be served in public areas in hotels and restaurants during religious holidays.
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What should I be aware of regarding visits to wildlife parks?
Visits to wildlife parks will be at the client's own risk. Safari vehicles available are very basic with basic insurance cover, not comprehensive as in the case of vehicles used for tours.
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Are the local guides on the tour English speaking?
YES, A friendly and professional tour leader tasked with ensuring the smooth operations of the tour, as well as providing practical support to passengers throughout the entire trip. His role primarily includes assisting with accommodation and transportation between locations while sharing the knowledge about social and cultural splendours of Sri Lanka.
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Is there any option for solo traveller?
Yes of course. Please note that the default selection shows the price per person per double room. For solo travellers, you will have to select a single room when available.
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CLIMATE & AVERAGE TEMPERATURES
Sri Lanka is a year-round holiday destination with two monsoon seasons so there is a lot of confusion around when is the best time to visit. The weather doesn't run like clockwork here! However, there will rarely be weather so dramatic that it will stand in the way of a brilliant holiday with plenty of warm weather and sunshine. The temperature is constant at around 27°C on the coast, both the air
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What is the tipping policy?
Tipping is not mandatory and it's up tour personal wish.
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Is free Wi-Fi available in the accommodation used?
yes
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Is the tour coach air conditioned?
yes, it is indeed
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Do you offer any travel insurance?
We do not offer Travel Insurance but would strongly recommend that you purchase a comprehensive Travel Insurance Policy prior to departure.
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What happens if a group doesn’t make its minimum required number of passengers?
The tour is guaranteed to departure even with a single person. However, in case of any cancellation, we'll inform you in advance and the full refund will be given.
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What does the price include?
What is included is stated specifically on the product Description. Gratuities are at your discretion. Prices do not include (unless stated otherwise) - gratuities to the guide, driver or tour manager.
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Are Visa fees included in the price?
No, visa fees are not included
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What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)?
The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is an official authorization for a Short Visit to Sri Lanka issued via an online system. You need ETA if you wish to visit Sri Lanka as a Tourist, on Business or on Transit. No passport copies, documents or photographs are required to obtain ETA. It will cost USD $30. However, during the sometime of the year government offers FREE visa for tourists.
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Are flights included in the tour?
No, they are not included
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Travellers are requested to maintain a minimum distance of 1.5 meters between two people at all times. > Travellers are requested to adhere to recommended hygiene procedures, such as travelling with and wearing a face mask and/or gloves when required to do so. > Keep 70% alcohol rub/hand sanitizer to use frequently.
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What is the fitness level required to do this tour?
Fairly good
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When are there specific hotel names confirmed?
Confirmed hotel names are informed latest 10 days prior to client´s arrival
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Booking confirmation with Itinerary and confirmation vouchers
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Is there a limit to luggage that can be brought on the tour?
Up to 40KG per person
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What currencies are required for this tour?
Sri Lankan Rupees (you can exchange currency at the Sri Lanka airport or tour leader will assist you to exchange at the local banks)
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You can change it by logging into your profile and click on Bookings. Please check your cancellation policy.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
yes, completely and according to our Health & Safety standards
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Low Deposit
Aitken Spence Travels requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of aitken spence travels charges.
At 45 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Romantic Escape, Private Tour
11 Days Starting in Negombo, Sri Lanka and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Negombo, Dambulla, Habarana, Trincomalee, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Bentota, Colombo
Tour operator:
Tour code:
439303
Group Type:
Private
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 8
Age range:
10-99
Special diets catered:
Vegetarians, Meat
