Join Solos as we head to the pearl of the Indian Ocean that is Sri Lanka and explore this fascinating island on an exciting tour. Formally colonised by the Portuguese, Dutch and the British, we will see influences of these as well as the Sri Lankan charm. The island has a host of UNESCO World Heritage Sites that we will explore as well as many National Parks where we will get the chance to jump on board a jeep in search of elephants, leopards and many other amazing animals. We will journey on a scenic train ride through the heart of Sri Lanka, through tropical landscapes, green rolling hills with tea plantations, surrounded by mountains. We will end with a beach stay for the final couple of nights, taking in the Indian Oceans crashing waves as we relax and reflect upon the tour.
Optional extras that can be booked when in resort:
You will need to apply for an ETA visa, information can be found here: apply for an ETA on the ETA website.
Today we will depart the UK and take our overnight flight to Colombo.
We will arrive at Colombo, which is a gateway to Sri Lanka, but we will not just pass by this diverse city. After checking into the hotel, we will drive past the Fort area, the former British administrative centre and military garrison. We will also pass by Sea Street which is the Goldsmiths quarters in the heart of Pettah before gathering later this evening for our first meal together.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will drive to Dambulla and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple which dates back to the first century where Buddhist Monks first carved a cave out to create a monastery. Five separate caves contain around 150 magnificent Buddha statues and paintings, where the Buddha images were first created over 2000 years ago.
We will then head to the hotel, check in and then make our way to Minneriya National Park which is known for its heard of elephants, we will board a jeep and head out on a safari in search of the elephants. The park is also an important habitat for Sri Lanka’s two endemic monkeys, deer’s, leopards and the Sri Lankan sloth bear as well many large water birds.
Early this morning we will make our way to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, which dates back to the fifth century. Known as Sigiriya Lion Rock, the ancient rock fortress is an iconic symbol of Sri Lanka with its massive column of rock that reaches nearly 200 metres high. We have the option of climbing the 1270 steps to see the well-preserved ruins of Sigirya, a UNESCO heritage site.
We will return to the hotel and later that morning and drive to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, another UNESCO heritage site. The city is a former capital of Sri Lanka and was home to the kings. Over time the city has become ruins with crumbling temples and palaces, where monkeys now roam. These ruins though are well maintained, and we will get a good perspective of how the kings would have lived.
This morning we will have breakfast at the hotel and drive to Kandy. We will visit Kandy Temple, also known as the Temple of the Sacred Tooth, this is a magnificent shrine with decorative walls and golden roof and it is also a renowned place of worship and houses Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of the Buddha. According to Buddhist legends, more than 2500 years ago, the Buddha was cremated, and parts of the body were saved including a tooth which was snuck into Sri Lanka and became a symbol or Sri Lankan Buddhism, and after numerous places in Sri Lanka, has found its home in Kandy.
We will also pay a visit to Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens, started in 1374 as a pleasure garden of the Kings of Kandy, boasting more than 5000 species of tress and plants over 147 acres.
After breakfast this morning we will drive to Nuwara Eliya, but en route we will stop at a tea plantation. The tea factory and garden is known for its cultivation of Pure Ceylon Tea, grown on the terraces of the Pidurutalagala mountain. We will visit the fields and pick some tea leaves if we wish.
We will continue on to the highest town in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya, known as ‘Little England ’, for its cooler climate, colonial influences on buildings in the region and it being a favourite of the British during colonisation. Tea estates carpet the slopes and banks of the hills, with bungalows doted in the landscapes, accompanied by tiny streams and waterfalls that fall from the surrounding mountains.
This morning we have the option of relaxing at the hotel and take in the lush green surroundings, or we can take an optional trip to trek in Horton’s Plains. The national park is spread over the two highest mountains in the area and is a wild grassland and cloud forest, it is also known for its many pools, waterfalls and rocky hills.
Just after midday we will embark on one of the most scenic train journeys in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya to Ella. The train ride will take us through the rolling green hills of the tea plantations which are overlooked by waterfalls and mountain peaks. Upon arrival we will check into the hotel and have the remainder of the day at leisure.
Ella is a small town tucked away in the green countryside of Sri Lanka. After breakfast in the hotel, we will begin a tour of Ella, and we will witness the impressive Nine Arches Bridge. This is an iconic architectural structure; the stone bridge is built amidst the lush green tea plantations with the stunning mountain ranges in the background. Following this we will visit the Ravana Falls, the widest falls in Sri Lanka. We will then have the option to walk to Ella Rock, which is one of the best hiking areas in Sri Lanka with Ella Rock providing some of the most picturesque views at the top. The walk is approximately three/four hour round trip and reaches an elevation of 1,041 metres at the viewpoint.
Today after breakfast we will head to Yala National Park, home to the highest concentration of Leopards, whilst also being the home of abundance of Asian elephants, wild buffalo, the sloth bear, jackal, deer and hundreds of different bird species. We will embark on a jeep safari this afternoon through the grassy and open plains, along sparkling waterholes and lakes hoping to witness these magnificent animals in their natural habitat.
This morning we will head out into Yala National Park on another jeep safari, jeeps are allowed to enter Yala in the morning and afternoon, so while we are here, we will make the most of our time in search of wildlife. We will return to the hotel for breakfast and have time at leisure before heading out again in the afternoon for our final jeep safari.
After breakfast at the hotel, we will head to Negombo, but first we will stop at the city of Galle, perched on the southwestern coast and has grown from its ancient origins. Galle has played host to the British, Dutch and Portuguese, and the city is most well known for the magnificent Galle Fort, the world heritage site was first constructed by the Portuguese back in the 16th century. Galle is also a place where we can see traditional fishing methods, so great place for fresh seafood.
We will continue our day heading to Negombo where we will spend the final days of our holiday relaxing by the beach. Negombo is a relaxed and peaceful beach town. It is rich in history with a well-preserved Dutch Fort, the mix of colonial architecture and vibrant culture creates a unique atmosphere.
Today and tomorrow, we have a much more relaxed style after touring this fascinating island. We will be staying in the Suriya Resort, the hotel is situated overlooking the Indian Ocean and is surrounded by lush greenery and tropical landscapes. We can spend the day relaxing around the hotels pool or spa, or we can make the short 10 minute walk down to the beach.
We will kick back today and spend the final day as we wish. This evening we will gather one final time for our farewell dinner.
This morning we will have our final morning in Sri Lanka before heading back to Colombo Airport for our return flight back to the UK.
Frequently Asked Questions
Transfer time from Colombo Airport to the hotel is approximately 40 minutes.
From Colombo to Dambulla Cave Temple approximately 35m minutes.
To Sigiriya Rock Fortress approximately 40 minutes.
From Sigiriya Rock to Polonnaruwa approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.
To Kandy from the hotel in Dambulla, approximately 2 hours 20 minutes.
Drive to Nuwara Eliya approximately 3 hours.
From Ella to Yala National Park approximately 3 hours 10 minutes.
From Yala to Negombo, via Galle, approximately 3 hours.
The emphasis is on casual clothing for throughout. Go for light, loose cotton clothing and comfortable shoes or walking boots. Conservative dress is preferred for both men and women. No shorts or vest tops in restaurants. When visiting temples and certain museums dress politely; shorts, singlets, spaghetti straps, skirts, tank-tops and open backed sandals are not acceptable. The dress code would be same for men and women, that is shoulders and legs covered, no hats, and shoes to be taken off.
We suggest a Group Collection to cover guides, transfer drivers, and hotel staff of £80.00 per person. Your Tour Leader will collect this on your behalf and distribute it accordingly, thus relieving you of the burden of who, when and how much to tip. The tipping of housekeeping will be left to your individual discretion (a small amount left in your room on departure should cover this and would be much appreciated). As is customary, ‘the hat’ will be passed around for the driver and guide on all optional excursions. For any meals that are not included in your itinerary, or taxi fares, your Tour Leader can advise of an appropriate % to add on.
If you are visiting Sri Lanka, your passport should be valid for 6 months from the date you arrive.
All visitors are advised to apply online for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) to enter Sri Lanka. Further information on eligibility is available on the Department of Immigration and Emigration website.
Visitors can apply for an ETA on the ETA website.
On arrival visa facilities are available, however applying for an ETA before travel is advised for ease of travel and to prevent delays on arrival.
All visitors need to comply with the guidelines imposed for tourists by the Government of Sri Lanka.
Tourist visas are normally valid for 30 days. If you overstay your visa you could be fined or detained by the police.
Check whether you need a yellow fever certificate by visiting the National Travel Health Network and Centre’s TravelHealthPro website.
At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the latest country-specific health advice from the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) on the TravelHealthPro website. Each country-specific page has information on vaccine recommendations, any current health risks or outbreaks, and factsheets with information on staying healthy abroad. Guidance is also available from NHS (Scotland) on the FitForTravel website.
General information on travel vaccinations and a travel health checklist is available on the NHS website. You may then wish to contact your health adviser or pharmacy for advice on other preventive measures and managing any pre-existing medical conditions while you’re abroad.
Sri Lankan Rupee
You will need to have a good level of fitness to take part in most activities due to some element of walking.
Optional extras that can be booked when in resort:
“I’m sure you will enjoy it, I have been on three solos holidays to date and the people I’ve met have been great.”
“I’ve been travelling with Solos for nearly 20 years, on and off. The reason is for exactly what you want – you meet like minded people… and have loads of fun!”
“I’ve been on loads of trips with Solos over the years and can honestly say you will not regret booking your 1st one!”
“The feeling you have once you go away on your own is worth all the nerves before! I was so very anxious the first time but now having done it 4 times, I love it!”
