Kensington
12 Day Wildlife & Culture of Sri Lanka
12 Day Wildlife & Culture of Sri Lanka
Discover a blend of Sri Lanka’s exotic wildlife and authentic cultural experiences on this privately guided journey around the island. Explore the country’s finest national parks, visit steamy towns steeped in colonial history and discover the ancient gems of the Cultural Triangle.
After arriving in Colombo head inland to Sigiriya, the heart of Sri Lanka’s famed Cultural Triangle. Climb to the top of the age-old rock fortress; enjoy spectacular views of the lush countryside beneath you and tour the ruins of structures that once graced the summit. Your adventure continues as you transfer to Kandy. Here, shop for exotic spices at a local market and wander around the town’s characterful neighborhoods. In Gal Oya, a walk with a Vedda Chief offers you an exceptional insight into the culture of the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. You will also set out on a private boat and jeep safari, where you may catch sights of crocodiles, or even wild elephants swimming in between the islands. Head to Yala National Park where you’ll stay at a tented safari camp, and embark on multiple jungle expeditions in search of leopards, elephants, sloth bears and more. In Galle, accompanied by your private guide, tour the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Fort. Walk around the 17th century Dutch ramparts and gaze out over the magnificently blue Bay of Galle. This is the authentic Sri Lanka you’ve been seeking.
Kensington Tours creates private trips from the world’s finest ingredients. Tailor-made with care by your personal Destination Expert, your personalized trip is always a one-of-a-kind experience made just for you. Expert local guidance and 24/7 service come standard.
Day 1 |
Colombo is the financial capital and by population, the biggest city in Sri Lanka. A major trading port as far back as 2,000 years ago, Colombo has an expansive harbor, making it a true commercial center of this island country. |
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Day 4 |
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Kandy is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. As the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a unique charm that blends its colonial past with a rich, vibrant heritage. The city’s crown jewel is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic believed to be the tooth of the Buddha. Every August, the city comes alive with the Esala Perahera, a grand procession featuring traditional dancers, fire-breathers, drummers, and colorfully adorned elephants, all celebrating this sacred relic. Kandy's serene and picturesque surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. A leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a must for visitors, providing stunning views of the hills and the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic. For a deeper immersion into Sri Lanka's natural beauty, the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya showcase an impressive collection of more than 4,000 species of flora, including a renowned orchid house and a giant Javan fig tree. This lush oasis was once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty, making it an ideal spot to unwind amidst history and nature. Kandy is also a cultural hub where visitors can experience authentic Sri Lankan traditions. The city is famous for its vibrant Kandyan dance performances, which depict ancient tales through powerful drumming, elegant costumes, and dynamic movements. Local markets, like the Kandy Central Market, provide a glimpse into everyday life, where the aroma of spices, fresh produce, and handcrafted souvenirs fills the air. Here, you can shop for Ceylon tea, a world-renowned product from the surrounding tea plantations that blanket the hills in verdant green. Fun fact: The city of Kandy has played a pivotal role in the preservation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, especially after the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. The city's location in the highlands provided a natural defense that helped protect its sacred relics and cultural treasures during times of invasion and conflict. |
Day 5 |
Nestled in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country, Kandy is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. As the last capital of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka, Kandy holds a unique charm that blends its colonial past with a rich, vibrant heritage. The city’s crown jewel is the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage site that houses a relic believed to be the tooth of the Buddha. Every August, the city comes alive with the Esala Perahera, a grand procession featuring traditional dancers, fire-breathers, drummers, and colorfully adorned elephants, all celebrating this sacred relic. Kandy's serene and picturesque surroundings offer a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle. A leisurely stroll around Kandy Lake, built in 1807 by King Sri Wickrama Rajasinghe, is a must for visitors, providing stunning views of the hills and the iconic Temple of the Tooth Relic. For a deeper immersion into Sri Lanka's natural beauty, the nearby Royal Botanic Gardens in Peradeniya showcase an impressive collection of more than 4,000 species of flora, including a renowned orchid house and a giant Javan fig tree. This lush oasis was once reserved exclusively for Kandyan royalty, making it an ideal spot to unwind amidst history and nature. Kandy is also a cultural hub where visitors can experience authentic Sri Lankan traditions. The city is famous for its vibrant Kandyan dance performances, which depict ancient tales through powerful drumming, elegant costumes, and dynamic movements. Local markets, like the Kandy Central Market, provide a glimpse into everyday life, where the aroma of spices, fresh produce, and handcrafted souvenirs fills the air. Here, you can shop for Ceylon tea, a world-renowned product from the surrounding tea plantations that blanket the hills in verdant green. Fun fact: The city of Kandy has played a pivotal role in the preservation of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, especially after the arrival of the Portuguese in the 16th century. The city's location in the highlands provided a natural defense that helped protect its sacred relics and cultural treasures during times of invasion and conflict. |
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Travel Dates | Price | ||
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05/03/19 - 12/31/26 |
Starting At $6,816 |
Get A Quote |
Prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Offer is subject to availability and change without notice. Some restrictions may apply.