Sri Lanka and Maldives Holiday

A scenic drive passing through small villages and towns brings you to Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle.  Arrive in Sigiriya this afternoon and spend the remainder of the day at leisure.

Experience the exhilaration of climbing up to the summit of the Sigiriya rock fortress, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The fortified settlement atop Sigiriya, dating back to the 5th century AD, is a stupendous architectural achievement and one of the highlights of Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle. The afternoon is at leisure to relax by the pool.

Set off for Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s famed ancient capital city. Cycling through the ancient site, discover the magnificent 11th-century ruins strewn across a single complex. Your tour will include a visit to the Royal Palace of Vijayabahu; the Hall of Public Audience, the Relic House; and Gal Vihara, the rock-cut temple renowned for its images of Buddha. In the afternoon, take a jeep safari inside Minneriya National Park and look for wild Asian elephants in their natural habitat.

Rise early and set off this morning on a scenic drive through hills covered with lush forests to Kandy, where you will attend the lively morning ‘Pooja’ at the sacred Temple of the Tooth. Then proceed to your colonial-era planter’s residence, where you will spend the next three nights and experience the gracious lifestyle of the colonial-era tea planters.

Accompanied by your estate manager, stroll through the tea gardens and learn first-hand about the history of tea; observe the colourful saree-clad tea pickers at work, watch the various processes involved in the journey of tea from leaf to cup, taste the different varieties of tea and gain an insight into the art of tea blending. The afternoon is at leisure to relax and enjoy the gardens and views of your atmospheric bungalow. Alternatively, set off on a scenic walk through the picturesque countryside.

The picturesque hill country region is dotted with charming tea estates, gushing waterfalls, and quaint villages that retain much of their colonial character and offers inspiring trails for those keen to explore the region on foot. Accompanied by your guide, discover the dramatic landscape at your own pace.

Drive to Colombo International Airport and fly to Male in the Maldives. On arrival, a short speedboat* transfer will whisk you off to your island paradise.

Note: For those staying at Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, it will be a scenic seaplane transfer to your resort.

Today will be at leisure to relax by the beach and enjoy the leisure facilities at your beach resort.

At leisure in the Maldives.

At leisure in the Maldives.

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

Note: For guests staying at Lux* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, it will be a seaplane transfer and for those staying at Oblu by Atmosphere at Helengeli – it will be a speedboat transfer.