Highlights of Sri Lanka & Bentota Beach

Fly overnight to Colombo. On arrival you will be met by your expert tour guide and transferred to your hotel in the coastal town of Negombo, a short drive from Colombo. The rest of the day is yours to explore.

Journey to Sigiriya and explore the magnificent Lion Rock Fortress, built by King Kasyapa. Later visit the world-renowned Heavenly Maiden frescoes.

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa, which was the former capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 12th century and is home to well preserved stupas, frescoes and statues. While here, explore the rock temples at Gal Vihara and the Vatadage, an ancient structure with elaborate stone carvings, before returning to Sigiriya.

Travel to the World Heritage city of Anuradhapura, one of Sri Lanka's most celebrated ancient cities. Whilst here, visit the Sri Mada Bodhi Bo tree, over 2000 years old; the Ruwanweliseya dagoba and the Samadhi Buddha statue. Visit the Isurumuniya rock temple to visit its rock carvings dating back to the 3rd century BC.

Travel to the Buddhist city of Kandy visiting the Dambulla Rock Temple, which dates back to the 1st Century BC. Visit a spice garden and witness a cookery demonstration in Matale. Continue to Kandy.

Visit the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens before continuing to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of the most sacred Buddhist sites in the world. We also explore the remains of the Royal Palace which is now the National Museum. Later, witness a cultural dance show with dinner in the evening.

Travel to Nuwara Eliya by train, through the world's most picturesque scenery to the city known as Sri Lanka's little England. On arrival you will check-in and relax for the rest of the afternoon.

This morning visit a tea plantation and factory learning all about the manufacturing process. Later this afternoon explore the town centre as you take in the race course, the interesting history of Hill Club Hotel, Gregory Lake and the Hindu Temple of Seetha Amman Kovil.

Drive to Yala National Park, home to a large number of elephants, leopards, sambhur, wild buffalo and over 130 bird species. Enroute visit Udawalawe Elephant Sanctuary, established by the Department of Wildlife Conservation for orphaned elephants.

Enjoy a morning and evening jeep safari in Yala National Park.

Depart Yala and drive to Galle. On the way, stop and visit the Hummanaya Blow Hole, Mulkirigala Rock Temple and Dikwella Wewurukannala Temple. After lunch stop to view the stilt fisherman at Welligama. Upon arrival in Galle, check into your hotel for a two night stay.

Today you will visit the UNESCO World Heritage Dutch Fort, Galle Lighthouse and Dutch Reformed Church. Also known as Galle Fort, the Dutch Fort is one of the best preserved examples of 17th Century colonial fortifications in the world.

Travel to Colombo, stopping at Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery en route. The hatchery is home to Sri Lanka's pioneering sea turtle conservation project.

Embark on a city tour of Colombo this morning. Explore Fort District, the historic centre of the city. Wander through Pettah Market and visit the Dutch Church of Wolvendhall, dating back to 1749, Kelaniya Buddhist Temple, a major pilgrimage site for Buddhist devotees, and Colombo's finest museums.

Bid farewell to the rest of your group and travel to Bentota, set on the picturesque southwest coast, a destination renowned for its golden beaches, swaying palms and calm, sparkling waters. Arrive at your beach resort and relax. The next few days will be on a private basis with no escorted touring included.

Your time in Bentota can be as slow-paced or as active as you like, with soft, sun-kissed sands to lie on or plentiful activities to partake in. A boat safari through winding mangrove channels is a perfect way to explore, while there are turtle hatcheries, local markets, and traditional fishing villages too. Watersports are an option for those who like action, or there are vibrant beachside cafes and seafood restaurants serving up fresh fish and Sri Lankan delicacies for those who like life at a more sedate pace. Whichever you choose, you’re in for a delightful taste of Sri Lanka’s coastal life.

Transfer to the airport for your flight to New Zealand arriving home the same or following day.