Sri Lanka and the Maldives

In the morning you will be transferred from your hotel to the Cultural Triangle (drive time is approximately 3 hours).

During the drive, you will take a stop at Dambulla Caves. These are the largest caves in Sri Lanka, within the caves you will see hundreds of old Buddhist statues and murals which depict Buddha and his life. The cave is one of the best-preserved cave complexes in Sri Lanka.

The cave rock is around 160 metres tall, giving you breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

After checking out these amazing caves, you will then head onto Sigiriya Rock which is a world heritage site. There used to be a giant lion statue that used to stand at the entrance to the palace which is why it is also known as Lion Rock. At the top, the remains of the palace foundations lie here, which give you a fabulous feeling of what this amazing palace was like when it was standing. When you are here, look out for The Water Gardens, Fountain Garden, Summerhouse, Boulder Gardens and the Caves.

After a delicious breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to the ancient ruins of Polonnaruwa.

Polonnaruwa was the Capital of Sri Lanka from 11th – 13th Centuries. Here you will see some magnificent statues depicting the rich history Polonnaruwa has. You will also see Lankatilake, Tivanka and Thuparama which are the largest and most beautiful Image Houses. Rankoth Vehera and Kirivehera are well preserved large stupas which are dome-shaped buildings. Whilst you are there visit Gal Vihare which is a rock shrine. It has four gorgeous Buddha statues, two seated, one standing and one reclining.

After this, you will be taken to Minneriya National Park. Minneriya is situated close to the ancient city of Polonnaruwa and boasts the largest herd of wild elephants in Sri Lanka. Regular sightings of leopards and sambhur deer plus an abundance of bird life are also key attractions.

After breakfast, you will be driven to the old capital of Kandy. Here you will visit the Temple of the Tooth and Peradineya Botanical Gardens.

The Temple of the Tooth is Sri Lanka’s most holy site said to house Buddha’s tooth, brought to the country in the 4th century. It is now said that it was hidden in the hair of an Orissian princess to keep out of non-believer’s hands.

The Royal Botanical Gardens covers 147 acres. It was originally created to be a pleasure garden of the Kings of Gampola and Kandy. There are more than 5,000 species of trees, plants and creepers. Whilst you are there, visit the Spice Garden and Orchid House

Today you’ll travel by scenic train to tea country and your driver will meet you for the onward journey to Nuwara Eliya (takes approximately 3 hours)

Visit a working tea factory and take in the natural beauty of this beautiful part of Sri Lanka.

An early start for the long drive down to Yala National Park (approximately 5-6 hours)

Yala National Park covers 126,786 hectares including the Strict Natural Reserve. Yala is famous for its big herds and large number of Elephants, Leopards, Spotted Deer, Sambhur, Crocodiles, Mongoose, Wild Boar, Wild Buffalo, and many other animals. More than 130 bird species are recorded which includes the resident and winter visitors.

Arrive at Male Airport in The Maldives where you will be transferred (by speed boat or sea plane) to the island on which your hotel is located.

Allow yourself to completely relax and unwind. Embrace the island tropical paradise and lose yourself in ultimate decadence and comfort.

We have a large selection of properties to choose from in the Maldives and we’ll handpick the best one for you based on your requirements. Browse some of our favourite hotels in the Maldives.