Unearth a tapestry of captivating experiences on our exclusive tour. Delve into the colonial plantation lifestyle at a lush bungalow, explore the architectural brilliance of Geoffrey Bawa, the pioneer of tropical modernism, and luxuriate in three meticulously designed villas. Dive into history within a fortified city, set sail on a lavish whale-watching cruise with mid-sea dining, and step back in time on the colonial-era upcountry train. From mastering the art of tea production to indulging in high tea at Sir Thomas Lipton’s former residence, each moment is a treasure. Glide through the Royal Botanical Gardens in a golf cart, a once-royal paradise.This retreat is tailored for couples seeking an unforgettable, immersive voyage through Sri Lanka’s colonial history, intertwined with an architectural approach that seamlessly connects with the tropical outdoors.
Experience Sri Lanka’s colonial elegance and tropical charm through heritage bungalows, Bawa’s architectural masterpieces, scenic train rides, and indulgent coastal and highland escapes.
Price
US $4680 /person
Duration
10 Days
Meals
9 breakfast, 3 lunches, 2 high teas and 9 dinners
Transport
Private air-conditioned vehicle with a chauffeur guide
Accommodation
9 nights at boutique hotels and bungalows from our luxury range
About This Journey
Includes
- Private tour of a colonial tea plantation and hands-on tea production experience.
- High tea at the former residence of Sir Thomas Lipton.
- Scenic train journey along the historic upcountry railway line.
- Exclusive garden tour of Geoffrey Bawa’s Lunuganga estate, showcasing tropical modernism.
- Stays at three luxurious villas designed with tropical modernist architecture.
- Golf cart exploration of the Royal Botanical Gardens, once a royal pleasure garden.
- Immersive experience within the UNESCO-listed fortified city of Galle.
- Whale-watching cruise aboard a luxury catamaran with mid-sea gourmet lunch and water sports.
- Leisurely beachfront retreat at a chic boutique hotel on Sri Lanka’s southern coast.
Optional
- Scenic helicopter transfer from the highlands to the southern coast, offering aerial views of Sri Lanka's diverse landscapes.
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival at BIA and Travel to Your Boutique Hotel
Upon your arrival at the airport arrivals hall, you will be greeted by your travel coordinator. After an introduction to your chauffeur guide, you will be transported to a beautifully restored colonial manor house, nestled within the embrace of a 200-year-old tropical garden. Your first day will be dedicated to relaxation and adjusting to the local climate.
Day 2: Travel from Seeduwa to Kandy
After breakfast, set off for Kandy, the final kingdom of Sri Lanka and a city known for its scenery. In Kandy, you will discover the Royal Botanic Gardens, spanning 140 acres of meticulously landscaped grounds and housing over 4,000 species of flora, in a golf cart. While the historical roots can be traced back to the era of Sri Lankan kings, when it served as a royal pleasure garden, the landscape as we see it today primarily took shape during the British colonial period.
Day 3: In Kandy
This day is dedicated to immersing yourself in the beauty of nature and embracing the countryside. Your villa is nestled within 6 acres of pristine natural forest, adjacent to the serene Victoria Reservoir. Throughout the day, you’ll be serenaded by the melodious songs of birds and the tranquil sounds of wildlife, creating a truly harmonious experience.
Day 4: Travel from Kandy to Haputale
You have the choice of embarking on a picturesque journey aboard the upcountry train, renowned as one of the most scenic rail routes, as it takes you to your plantation bungalow. Here, you can immerse yourself in the authentic tea plantation lifestyle. Perched high above the South-Eastern Sri Lankan plains, your bungalow treats you to awe-inspiring vistas of the distant plains.
Day 5: In Haputale
Embark on an adventure through the tea plantations and pay a visit to the factory. An experienced tea planter will guide you through the intricate production process of Ceylon Tea, providing fascinating insights. To enrich your experience, relish a delightful high tea served in the enchanting bungalow gardens, which once served as the residence of Sir Thomas Lipton himself.
Day 6: Travel from Haputale to Galle Fort
In the morning, journey from Haputale to the remarkable Galle Fort to immerse yourself in the unique lifestyle of a fortified city. Perched on a rocky peninsula, safeguarding the port of Galle, this fort stands as an exceptional illustration of a fortified city constructed by Europeans in South and South East Asia.
Day 7: Whale Watching
Spend the morning sailing on a catamaran to witness the magnificent whales off the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Your yacht will anchor near Taprobane Island, providing an idyllic backdrop for a sumptuous lunch and engaging in water sports activities. Thereafter you will retreat to your beachside escape.
Day 8: In Balapitiya
Nestled beneath the graceful coconut palms along a tranquil, sun-kissed, golden-sand shore, you’ll discover Kumu Beach. This modern beachfront boutique hotel in Balapitiya features stylish interiors and chic living and dining spaces that invite the outdoors in. Here, you can indulge in rejuvenating massages, take leisurely swims at sunset, and relish high-end personalized service.
Day 9: Lunuganga Garden Tour
Around mid-morning, set off on a drive to Lunuganga for a captivating garden tour that showcases the house and lifetime accomplishments of the renowned Sri Lankan architect Geoffrey Bawa. Celebrated for his pioneering work in tropical modernism, Bawa spent half a century meticulously shaping this garden into one of the most alluring and passionately designed pleasure gardens of the twentieth century.
Day 10: Travel to BIA Departure Terminal
Enjoy a leisurely morning at your own pace. Following that, depending on your flight schedule, make your way to the departure terminal at Bandaranaike International Airport (BIA).
