Sri Lanka Luxury Vacation Itinerary
Curated By
Karen Hart
SHARE
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-copy-url.9b3e4dc0.svg?w=16&q=90){kind=icon}
![Icon [object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-check.1bfe605d.svg?w=15&q=90){kind=icon}
Sri Lanka
Maldives
Adventure Travel
Honeymoons
Romantic
Local culture
Sightseeing
Curator’s statement
Experience an unforgettable vacation to Sri Lanka, embracing the perfect blend of culture, nature and beach bliss. This itinerary has been validated as perfection by honeymooners, but it is also completely customizable and ideal for the luxury adventurous cultural seeker. Ideal timing is to do this over 12-14 days exploring Sri Lanka (option to follow with the Maldives if you don't make it to the beaches of Sri Lanka).
The Fora Difference
Book with Karen to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-travel-perks.9512b274.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-recommendations.3b21b22c.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
![[object Object]](/_next/static/media/icon-inside-knowledge.1cb7ecbe.svg?w=42&q=90){kind=icon}
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Karen to book your trip.
Day 1: Cultural Triangle - Sigiriya, Kandy & Nuwara Eliya
Sigiriya Rock Hike:
Best to do early morning.
Allocate 2-3 hours for the hike to fully enjoy the experience
Polonnaruwa:
Second ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, smaller than Anuradhapura
Ruins are well-preserved; we will book you a local knowledgeable guide to accompany you
Plan to spend at least 2-3 hours here, which can be combined with other hikes
Day 2: Pidurangala Rock Hike & Spa
Pidurangala Rock Hike:
Ideal for an early morning hike
No guide needed for this hike
Anuradhapura:
First ancient kingdom of Sri Lanka, offering a vast area of historical ruins
Although the ruins are not as intact as Polonnaruwa, it still holds significance
You will be accompanied by a guide who will provide you with history and Buddhist philosophy
Ayurvedic Spa:
This is your chance to experience one of oldest and most renowned medicinal practices in the world — the ancient healing technique of ayurveda
Athreya Ayurvedic Hotel & Spa is recommended
Day 3: Dambulla Cave Temple
Dambulla Cave Temple:
Visit the temple on the way out of culture triangle and en route to Kandy
Set of ancient caves with really old and well-preserved buddhas, ancient inscriptions, etc
Kandy:
Visit the Botanic Gardens and temples
Day 4: Ceylon Tea Region
This vibrant town in the heart of Sri Lanka’s hill country is a significant area for the tea growing regions. Your hotel will be a destination in and of itself.
Enjoy kayaking, hiking and make sure to spoil yourself with an afternoon high tea in flourishing gardens. Discover the art of tea, on an essential Tea Trails experience.
Hot Tip: Purchase train tickets for a scenic ride. Get a 2nd class ticket. Windows/doors in 1st class do not open which is a big part of this train ride experience. People literally sit with their feet hanging out of the door and open all the windows!
Day 5: Ella Rock
Early Morning Start:
Begin your day early to make the most of your hike to Ella Rock. Start your journey from the 98 Acres hotel, which is located near the trailhead.
Get ready to be blown away by the incredible beauty of the hiking trail to Ella Rock. Wind your way through tea plantations, thick forests and stunning landscapes.
Experience the most incredible 360-degree panoramic views.
Visit Ravana Ella Falls.
Additional days: Yala National Park & Relaxing Holiday in the Maldives
Yala National Park and then head south to Sri Lanka's Beaches!
Need to Know
Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, A Sustainable Guide to Sumba, Indonesia. This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Asia & Southeast Asia.
Travel Advisor
Karen Hart
Get in touch with Karen
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can normally expect a response from Karen within a business day or so. You’ll also be subscribed to our travel newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Asia & Southeast Asia.