Sri Lanka’s secrets & Maldives’ magic

Arrive at your selected Canada departure airport* ready to check-in for an overnight flight to Colombo. Night on board.*If either your outbound or inbound flights depart in the early hours (before 4:00 a.m.) you must arrive at the airport the night before the indicated departure day.

Day in-flight, night on-board the aircraft. Due to the time difference, you will lose a day on your outward journey, but will gain it back on your return. You are not in-flight for two full days.

Land in Colombo, the vibrant capital of Sri Lanka. On passing through customs, you’ll be greeted by an Exoticca representative who will guide you to your private vehicle. Just a short drive away, head straight to the western port city of Negombo. Check in at the hotel* and spend the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Negombo**.*You will have the option to add early check-in on arrival in the next step of the booking process. To guarantee optional services, we recommend that you add them in advance as they are subject to availability.**You have the possibility to upgrade to half-board by adding 10 dinners or to full-board by adding 10 lunches and 10 dinners in the next step of the booking process.

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off for Dambulla, a picturesque village in the heart of the island. Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle in. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, with the option to explore the breathtaking Pidurangala Rock*, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the nearby Sigiriya Rock Fortress. Overnight stay in Matale District.*Optional tour to Pidurangala Rock: This enormous rock, located a few kilometers north of Sigiriya, has a fascinating and interconnected history with Sigiriya. In the 5th century, while King Kasyapa was constructing the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, he moved the monks living around Sigiriya to establish a new monastery on Pidurangala Rock. This site not only offers historical significance but also provides breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere, making it a compelling addition to your visit.Estimated transfer distance 130km/80miles.

Breakfast at the hotel. Set off and embark on a journey to one of Sri Lanka's most captivating destinations - Sigiriya Rock. Sigiriya is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It's also known as the “Lion Rock.” The rock is mesmerizing. It rises 200 meters from the scrub jungle around it. It is a regional landmark. It has a raised mesa. A fortress was ingeniously built on it centuries ago.Upon arrival, prepare to be awe-struck by the sheer grandeur of Sigiriya. Climb up to the fortress. You will marvel at the stunning water gardens below. As you climb higher, you'll see the famous frescoes inside. They offer a glimpse into the ancient art and rich culture of the region. After the tour, return to Matale District to further explore the region. Alternatively, you can join our optional excursion to Minneriya National Park* and immerse yourself in the island's vibrant wildlife. Overnight stay in Matale District.*Optional excursion to Minneriya National Park: Home to a diverse array of wildlife attracted to its varied topography and the Minneriya Tank, a man-made reservoir built in the 3rd century. The park is known for its permanent population of 150-200 Sri Lankan elephants.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you embark on a captivating village walking tour in Hiriwadunna. Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of this typical Sri Lankan town as you stroll along the Wewa, a serene man-made reservoir, observing the local wildlife and townsfolk congregating by the water's edge. Cross the tranquil waters by catamaran to reach a traditional farm, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about indigenous agricultural practices and savor the hospitality of the farmer with a taste of freshly harvested vegetables.In the afternoon, accompanied by your guide, venture to Polonnaruwa, an ancient capital of the illustrious Sri Lankan kingdom. This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts monumental man-made reservoirs, including the expansive "Sea of Parakrama," surpassing even the size of Colombo harbor. Explore architectural marvels such as the Royal Palace complex, featuring the King's Palace and Audience Hall, and marvel at the Quadrangle's wealth of ancient heritage. Don't miss the awe-inspiring Gal Vihare complex, showcasing four colossal Buddha statues carved from a single slab of granite. After a day of exploration, transfer back to your hotel, reflecting on the rich history and cultural heritage of Sri Lanka. Overnight stay in Matale District.

Breakfast at the hotel. Join your guide to begin the journey towards the historically-significant city of Kandy with two stops along the way. Before leaving the village, see the Dambulla Cave Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage site consists of five interconnected caves and features over 150 depictions of the Buddha. Though most of what we see dates to the early 19th century, some inscriptions come from as far back as the 2nd century BCE.Next, visit the Spice Garden to learn more about the exotic botanicals that motivated centuries of trade and colonization on the island. Get a detailed look at the plants on display and enjoy a head and shoulder massage before you leave!From there, arrive in Kandy and check in at your hotel. Head out for an included evening tour of the city including the Gem Museum and a Batik factory. Continue with a tour of the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a complex with palaces, gardens, and of course a Buddhist temple. Finally, end your evening with an hour-long Kandy cultural show, where you’ll be wowed by dances with swords and fire. Overnight stay in Kandy.Estimated transfer distance 93km/57miles.

Breakfast at the hotel. Today, you have a free day to explore the beauty of Kandy at your leisure. We recommend an optional visit to the Royal Botanical Garden* and suggest enjoying an optional cooking demonstration class at Thotupala Residency**. Overnight stay in Kandy.Note: You can enjoy both activities on the same day.*Optional tour to the Royal Botanical Garden: The Royal Botanic Gardens, Peradeniya, are located approximately 5.5 km to the west of the city of Kandy in the Central Province of Sri Lanka. This renowned garden attracts 2 million visitors annually and is situated near the Mahaweli River. It is especially known for its collection of orchids.**Optional Cooking demonstration class at Thotupala Residency: This cooking class provides an opportunity to learn how to prepare authentic Sri Lankan dishes through practical experience. Activities include scraping coconut, cutting vegetables, grinding spices in a mortar and pestle, and other culinary tasks. Participants will have the chance to taste the Sri Lankan cuisine and gain knowledge about Sri Lankan spices.

Breakfast at the hotel. Transfer by train to the southern city of Nuwara Eliya on a scenic journey. En route, visit a tea plantation to learn about the tea industry's historical impact on Sri Lanka's topography and demography. Introduced in 1867, tea remains a key export.Arrive in Nuwara Eliya. Check in to your hotel and enjoy an evening walking tour starting at the iconic Golf Club, one of Asia's oldest. Visit the city’s oldest post office, a Tudor-style colonial building, and explore landmarks like the HNB Bank, Police Station, St. Xavier’s Church, and the Grand Hotel. Conclude with a stroll through Victoria Park and the Race Course. Overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.