Embark on a walking tour of Colombo, which reveals the many colonial architectural gems hidden within this bustling commercial capital city. Later, drive to the Kalpitiya Peninsula, in Sri Lanka’s north-west. Kalpitiya is renowned for its secluded beaches and was an ancient commercial hub with extensive maritime trading links.

Overnight stay in Kalpitiya (2 Nights)

Spend the morning exploring Kalpitiya Fort, a massive 16th-century citadel facing the lagoon, in a bustling village. A walk along the ramparts will reveal characteristic Dutch architecture. Visit the Portuguese-built church and the remnants of the commander’s quarters before returning to your hotel. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Set off this morning to the picturesque Wilpattu National Park, one of Sri Lanka’s oldest and largest wildlife reserves. Wilpattu is an unspoilt park featuring open grasslands, dense scrub jungle and a unique complex of lakes called ‘Villus’. The park is situated along the northwest lowland dry zone and provides shelter to an array of wildlife, including leopards, sloth bear, barking deer, spotted deer, crocodiles and a variety of birds including coastal and water birds. Spend the entire day inside Wilpattu National Park and continue through typical Sri Lankan villages and towns to Sigiriya.

Overnight stay in Sigiriya (2 Nights)

Accompanied by your guide, take a relaxed bicycle ride through Vehergalla Village and discover the simplicity of Sri Lankan village life. Share a cup of tea with the village elders and gain an insight into local customs and traditions. The remainder of the day is at leisure to relax and enjoy the hotel facilities.

Begin your day with a trek through wooded hills to the ancient Ritigala Buddhist Monastery, whose rock inscriptions date back to the 1st century BC. The partially excavated ruins lie deep within the forest, and a walk amongst the overgrown ruins reveals stone bathing pools, courtyards and rooms believed to have been used for meditation and congregational ceremonies. Continue via Elephant Pass to Jaffna, a causeway that separates the Jaffna Peninsula from the rest of the island. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Overnight stay in Jaffna (3 Nights)

Spend the day exploring Jaffna town and its surrounding landscapes. Begin your morning at St. Mary’s Cathedral, whose origins date back to the late 18th century, though much of its present form was rebuilt in the 20th century.

As you drive through Jaffna, you’ll notice how distinct the region feels from much of Sri Lanka. The town’s many Dravidian-style Hindu temples, the predominantly Tamil population,and the enduring traditions reflected in daily life give Jaffna its unique cultural character.

Venturing beyond the town, you’ll pass through villages still rebuilding after the long civil conflict, offering a poignant glimpse into the region’s resilience. Travel on to Point Pedro, the northernmost tip of Sri Lanka, before visiting the Keerimalai Springs, famed for their mineral-rich waters and seaside setting.

Visit the Keerimalai hot springs, explore the Kanthrodai Buddhist dagoba ruins and discover Vallipuram Kovil – the second largest Hindu temple in Sri Lanka.

Set off this morning by private boat to explore the remote islands off Sri Lanka’s northern coast. Begin on Nainativu Island, where you’ll visit the vibrant Nagapooshani Amman Kovil and the serene Nagadeepa Purana Vihara, two significant Hindu and Buddhist shrines located side by side.

Continue to Neduntivu (Delft Island), known for its Dutch Fort ruins, the mysterious “growing rock”, towering Baobab trees, and the island’s famous wild ponies.

Returning to the mainland in the afternoon, explore the 17th-century Jaffna Fort, still marked by the region’s turbulent past, view the restored Jaffna Library, and visit the revered Nallur Kandaswamy Temple, the cultural and spiritual heart of Jaffna.

Start early today and drive to Trincomalee, the most important town along Sri Lanka’s east coast. On arrival, walk through the historic Fort Frederick, with its many charming colonial buildings, visit the coastal artillery batteries that were used during World War II and then attend the atmospheric afternoon pooja at the ancient Koneswaram Kovil. A walk through Trincomalee’s lively market will conclude the day’s sightseeing.

Overnight stay in Trincomalee (3 Nights)

Begin your day with a visit to the Rear Admiral Sir Samuel Hood Maritime Museum (subject to permission at the time of booking) with its fine collection of naval artefacts, including weapons, gun batteries and underground ammunition storehouses. While at the museum, enjoy the wonderful panorama over Trincomalee from Hood’s Tower. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today will be at leisure to relax by the beach, swim, snorkel and enjoy the leisure facilities at your beach hotel.

Leave the palm-fringed tranquil beaches behind and fly from Trincomalee to Colombo. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to Kotugoda for a relaxed boutique stay before your departure.

Transfer to Colombo International Airport and check in for your onward flight.