21 Day Ultimate Sri Lanka, The Historical North & The Maldives Premium Small Group Tour

Welcome to Sri Lanka! On arrival into Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB), you will be met by our local representative and your group will be transferred to your hotel. Check in and relax, ready to start touring in the morning. Special Information: Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport by a representative who will escort you through immigration, and be transferred to your hotel. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed. Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

In the morning after breakfast, we'll head south towards Galle, with a brief Colombo sightseeing tour on the way. Colombo offers a blend of modern western and Sri Lankan elements, we'll drive past some of the commercial capital's sites including Old Parliament, President's House, Galle Face Green, ViharamahaDevi Park, and Independence Square. There will be time for you to disembark the coach and visit the uniquely stunning Jami Ul-Alfar Mosque (entry not included). We will also visit the Colombo National Museum. This charming museum takes visitors on a fascinating journey through Sri Lankan history. Housed in a stunning neo-Baroque building, which was specifically constructed by William Henry Gregory, Governor of Ceylon, in 1877, the museum boasts a gleaming white façade. As you make your way through the various rooms, you'll encounter exhibits dedicated to each of Sri Lanka's historical kingdoms. Informational display boards provide intriguing insights, such as the meaning behind the mudras (gestures and poses) depicted in Sri Lanka's Buddha statues. Then, in Balapitiya, we take a boat trip on the Madu River to visit 64 scattered islands, including Cinnamon Island, where we learn about cinnamon production. Sri Lanka is the world's largest producer of pure cinnamon. Inspiring Highlights Colombo National Museum Madu River Cinnamon Island Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.Please note that the Colombo National Museum will be closed every Monday for maintenance starting September 1, 2025. As an alternative, Polonnaruwa Museum will be visited instead.

Today after breakfast, set out on a tour of the Galle Fort and its Fortifications. This is a city that exudes an essence with a perfect blend of past and present. Declared a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, the presence of Portuguese, Dutch and English is very evident in the fascinating architectural styles of the Galle Fort. Return to the hotel for the rest of the day at leisure, where lunch and dinner will be at the hotel. Inspiring Highlights Galle Fort

In the morning after breakfast, we leave for Yala National Park. On arrival, spend your afternoon on a guided game drive exploring the dynamic wildlife and the most luxuriant plant life in Yala National Park. Being one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka, it is the ideal place to sight the rare leopard! Enjoy dinner at the hotel in the evening. Special Information Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National Park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. Your travel time today will be approximately 2.5 hours.

This morning will be an early start, where you'll enjoy another safari in the Yala National Park by jeep to spot the diverse wildlife which calls the park home. After, we leave Yala and make a stop in Ella to witness the beautiful sceneries from Ella Gap and the picturesque waterfalls. We continue the journey to Nuwara Eliya. Often referred to as ‘Little England', this genteel highland community does have a rose-tinted, vaguely British-country-village feel to it, with its colonial-era bungalows. On arrival, check in to your Inspiring Stay for the next two nights, the incredible Grand Hotel. It may be the 21st century, but colonial splendour still reigns in all its past glory at the Grand Hotel. Built in 1891, this was the palatial residence of the former Governor of Sri Lanka, Sir Edward Barnes; today we offer the ultimate in comfort to all who seek the charms of this famed hill country landmark. The incredible Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya, an enduring icon in this tranquil town perched on a mountain ridge overlooking lush green countryside in tea country. Oozing colonial charm, the hotel began life in the early 19th century as the stately holiday home of the fifth Governor of Ceylon. It's since evolved over the centuries to retain a romantic, old-world ambience alongside modern comforts. In an enviable location, there are elegant, well-appointed rooms, magnificent gardens and an array of hotel amenities and activities including music therapy, yoga and more. The Grand Hotel is also renowned for its traditional afternoon tea, a quintessential British tradition which you'll experience on this tour. In the evening, enjoy dinner at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Yala National Park Ella Gap Nuwara Eliya & The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours. A smart casual dress code applies for dinner at all restaurants and bars. Guests in short trousers and sleeveless shirts and rubber slippers will not be permitted to enter the restaurants.

Today you will have a leisurely morning. In the afternoon you will visit a tea plantation and factory. Here you will enjoy an absolute tea experience, taking you from the moment young tea leaves are plucked to being processed in the factory to make a steaming cup of tea. If you are interested, the tea factory is the best place to purchase high quality tea. This afternoon, enjoy an Inspiring Taste at probably the most talked of outlet in Nuwara Eliya, the Grand Tea Lounge. Here we enjoy an iconic High Tea at the Grand Hotel. Dinner this evening will be enjoyed at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Grand Tea Lounge Tea Plantation

This morning after an early breakfast, depart for Kandy on a famous train journey, said to be one of the most scenic and beautiful in the world. Apart from the breathtaking sceneries of the tea country and picturesque waterfalls, it is a chance for you to mingle with local people. Discover the rich history of Kandy, once known as Senkadagala, during its time as the Hill Capital from 1514-1815 AD. Named a UNESCO heritage site in 1988, Kandy boasts a beautiful lake, historic temples like the Temple of the Tooth Relic, and well-preserved ruins of the royal palaces. Enjoy some free time upon arrival in Kandy during the afternoon, before a dinner at a local restaurant with the rest of your group. Inspiring Highlights Kandy Train Journey Special InformationAs a result of Cyclone Ditwah, certain rail routes are temporarily out of service. If a scheduled train journey cannot operate, we will provide private road transport to ensure your tour continues smoothly. Whenever feasible, and where services are running, we'll still incorporate rail segments into your itinerary. It is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation due to the fact that Sri Lanka Railway has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The 1st and 2nd class is basic but has air-conditioning. The non-air conditioned 3rd class sometimes is the only option based availability. On the rare occasion the train is fully booked we'll conduct the route by road. Your travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, explore the beautiful city of Kandy with an included Tuk Tuk and Bazaar tour, followed by a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Relax in the afternoon with a stroll around the picturesque Kandy Lake. In the evening, enjoy a spectacular Sri Lankan Cultural Performance, followed by a visit to the revered Temple of Tooth, home to a sacred relic of the Buddha and its guardian elephants. This evening have dinner with your group, and enjoy some relaxation time. Inspiring Highlights Kandy Lake Temple of the Tooth

Today after a early breakfast, depart for Sigiriya. Enroute, enjoy a private jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. Located in the districts of Matale and Polonnaruwa and bordered by the 'Mahaweli' and 'Amban' rivers, this park stretches an impressive 36,948 hectares. It was declared a National park in 1984, making it the only one in the Central Province. It's a paradise for nature lovers and one of the best places to observe elephants. Continue to Sigiriya for check-in around lunch time. This evening enjoy an Inspiring Taste with some sundowner pre-dinner Arrack (a local cocktail) or something else to suit your tastes with some canapes, followed by dinner at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Minneriya National Park Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 3 hours. Since elephants are migratory animals, we may visit Wasgamuwa National Park on this day instead, based on the elephant locations.

This morning will be an early start, where we'll climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (also known as Lion's Rock) - an extraordinary artistic complex dating back to 477-498 AD. This UNESCO World Heritage Site has become a global attraction due to its unique architecture. For lunch, participate in an Inspiring Taste cooking demonstration where you'll learn to prepare Sri Lankan rice and curry (5-6 curries). Savour your meal while overlooking the beautiful gardens. In the afternoon, we'll take a sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital city of Sri Lanka (1017-1235 AD). Polonnaruwa was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982 after the fall of Anuradhapura. In the evening enjoy a cocktail and dinner at your hotel. Inspiring Highlights Sigiriya Rock Fortress Polonnaruwa

Spend the morning at your leisure, then in the afternoon, explore the impressive Dambulla Rock Cave Temple, also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla. This UNESCO heritage site dates back to the 3rd Century BC and boasts 157 statues and extraordinary paintings covering a vast 2100m2 area, making it the most impressive cave complex in Sri Lanka. It's truly a masterpiece worth experiencing. Enjoy dinner at your hotel tonight. Inspiring Highlights Golden Temple of Dambulla

This morning after breakfast we will begin our drive to Trincomalee, a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. On the way, we will visit Fort Frederick & Koneswaram Temple. Fort Frederick was built by Portuguese settlers in 1623. It was captured by the Dutch in 1639 and later on by British troops in 1795. Koneswaram Temple is located inside the fort and on top of Swam rock and it is a highly venerated Hindu temple dedicated to God Shiva. Upon arrival we will check-in and enjoy an evening at leisure to start exploring Trincomalee - one of Sri Lanka's coastal gems. Inspiring Highlights Fort Frederick Koneswaram Temple Trincomalee Special Information Your travel time today will be approximately 2 hours. On your departure from Sigiriya you will say goodbye to your tour leader, and some of your group who will not be continuing onwards to the North with you. You will be met by a new tour leader, or depending on group size, you may change from your tour leader to a local guide. Local guides are frequently native to the area, offering a deeper understanding of the local history, art, or way of life.Please note that options for 4-star and 5-star hotels in Trincomalee are limited. For certain departure dates, Nilaveli Beach Hotel—a 3-star property—serves as an excellent alternative, located on the popular Nilaveli Beach and known for its high overall standards.

This morning is free for you to sleep in or enjoy your resort's coastal setting & its facilities. Later in the afternoon, follow your local guide on a city tour of Trincomalee. Inspiring Highlights Trincomalee Special Information In the morning, as an alternative you may want to take an optional boat tour to Pigeon Island (it can be booked on tour). The boat ride to Pigeon Island is approximately 15 minutes. Renowned for its peaceful beach and idyllic snorkelling. Marine wildlife found within Pigeon Island Marine National Park include; Black Tip Reef Sharks, Green Sea Turtle, Hawksbill Sea Turtle or Olive Ridley Sea Turtle, tropical fish, squids, octopus, cuttlefish, moray eels or lobsters hiding between rocks (Note: From December to March this optional tour might not be available because of rough seas. During this period there are many days the boats do not operate due to rough seas and weather conditions).

Today we continue driving north to the Tamil city of Jaffna. This northern, coastal city was inaccessible for years due to the civil war. You will have the rest of the afternoon and evening to relax. Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

Today we begin our half-day Jaffna city tour with our guide. We'll experience daily life as we explore this emerging city. We'll tour the beautiful Jaffna Public Library which was lovingly restored after being destroyed during the civil war. We will also see the Hindu Temple of Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most important temples in Jaffna. Finish off today's sightseeing like a local enjoying a scoop of ice cream at Jaffna Rio Ice Cream. After your city tour, you will have the afternoon and evening at your leisure to relax or explore further. Inspiring Highlights Jaffna Public Library Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil

Today after breakfast, we will be departing Jaffna and transferring to the city of Anuradhapura. Upon arrival we'll check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. Special InformationYour travel time today will be approximately 4 hours.

After breakfast, enjoy a guided city tour of Anuradhapura. Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and is known for its well-preserved ruins. The highlight of today will be a visit to the magnificent Anuradhapura ruins. Among the ruins you'll see the sacred old Bo Tree, a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura's great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, some in woodland settings and others appearing park-like with columns and ponds dotted about. Later on, continue to Mihintale, a mountain peak near Anuradhapura. Locals believe this site of a meeting point between the Buddhist monk Mahinda and King Devanampiyatissa, who instigated Buddhism in Sri Lanka. Spend the evening at your leisure. Inspiring Highlights Anuradhapura ruins Sacred Old Bo Tree Mihintale

After breakfast, we drive 170 km to Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to board your flight to Malé Welcome to Paradise! A visit to the Maldives is truly a dream come true. This breathtaking tropical nation, set in the heart of the Indian Ocean, is made up of 26 vibrant coral atolls and hundreds of idyllic islands. Renowned worldwide for its pristine white-sand beaches, crystal-clear sapphire lagoons, and thriving coral reefs, the Maldives offers an unforgettable escape. Upon arrival in Malé, you'll be warmly welcomed and escorted to your speedboat transfer. Enjoy a scenic 40-minute journey across the turquoise waters to Kaafu Atoll, where you'll spend the next few days immersed in paradise. Once checked in, take the time to explore the stunning tropical scenery at your own leisure. Special Information Today you will say goodbye to your Tour Leader in Sri Lanka, and the rest of your tour will be Independent. Your included flight allows one checked bag up to 30kg (66lbs), and one 7kg (15 lbs) carry-on, with options to increase your luggage allowance at the airport if needed. Your flight will be unescorted, however your tour guide will assist you to ensure that your journey is trouble free. Your All-Inclusive Maldives package includes: Breakfast, lunch & dinner daily. Snacks & cakes are available outside main mealtimes Tea, coffee, iced tea, cordials & water, which are available from 07.30am to midnight Whisky, brandy, gin, vodka, rum, draft beer, house wines, soft drinks, selected cocktails & mocktails Drinks are served up to midnight. Extra charges apply during excursions. Meals and drinks are included until midday on the date of departure. No alcoholic drinks will be served to guests under the age of 18

Indulge in a scrumptious breakfast while marveling at the picturesque low-lying islands that make up the breathtaking Maldives archipelago. Each atoll here is a result of centuries of coral reef growth, surrounded by shallow lagoons protected by reef systems. The Maldives boasts idyllic islands with tropical features such as tall coconut palms, white sandy beaches, and clear lagoons. Spend your day at leisure enjoying a wide range of thrilling activities offered on the island. Our hotel offers excellent snorkeling opportunities for those interested in exploring the shallow oases at the edge of the islands. You can also opt for exhilarating water sports activities like catamaran sailing and windsurfing, experiencing the thrill of riding the winds and speeding through the crystal waters. For a more serene experience, canoeing is also available for you to relish the natural beauty surrounding the islands. The adventurous can choose from jet-skiing, parasailing, and scuba diving to make the most of their stay in the Maldives. The possibilities are endless, and the Maldives awaits your exploration.

Starting off another day with a delightful breakfast, today promises to be another day of blissful relaxation in the Maldives. The options for activities and adventure are limitless and cater to all interests, ensuring that you will never have a dull moment during your stay. Alternatively, bask in the tranquility of the pristine beaches and soak in the picturesque surroundings, as you indulge in the crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. The serene atmosphere of the luxurious white sandy beach is sure to leave you rejuvenated and refreshed like never before.

Following breakfast this morning, you will be transferred by speed boat to Valena International Airport (MLE) in time for your departure flight. Special InformationPlease note that lunch may be forfeited depending on the timing of your departure flight. Departure transfers are included as part of your package. You will be collected from your hotel at the appropriate time and transferred to the airport to meet your flight. Note that there isn't a fixed schedule for the boat transfers. Your transfer will be coordinated based on your flight times. If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.