The Pearl and The Paradise: 14 nights in Sri Lanka and the Maldives

Overview

We invite you on a wonderful trip, blending the rich culture and natural beauty of Sri Lanka with the sheer luxury of the Maldives. This journey takes you from city buzz to ancient sites, across mist covered mountains and tea plantations, before arriving at pristine island beaches. It is a holiday designed for balance, moving from adventure to pure relaxation. We start in Colombo, a city where old and new meet, then head to Sigiriya's ancient rock fortress. In Kandy, we find sacred spots and stunning views. Nuwara Eliya offers cool mountain air and tea. Finally, the Maldives welcomes us with clear lagoons and soft sands for an idyllic end to our travels.

Best season: We recommend travelling between December and March for the best weather.

Gallery

Trip highlights

• Explore ancient history at Sigiriya Rock Fortress
• Discover the beauty of Kandy and its sacred sites
• Relax in the cool tea country of Nuwara Eliya
• Encounter elephants at Pinnawala Orphanage
• Unwind on the pristine beaches of the Maldives

Day by day itinerary

1. Day 1

   Arrival in Colombo

   When you arrive at Colombo Airport, we will meet you and take you to the Galle Face Hotel. You can then spend the day exploring the city, seeing its colonial charm and modern life. Later, take a walk along Galle Face Green and enjoy a beautiful sunset over the Indian Ocean.

2. Day 2

   Colombo to Sigiriya

   After breakfast, we leave Colombo and travel through the Sri Lankan countryside to Sigiriya. We check into The Beautiful Hotel Sigiriya where you can relax in the gardens. Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and views of Sigiriya Rock, finishing the day with dinner at the hotel.

3. Day 3

   Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Dambulla

   Today, we hike up Sigiriya Rock Fortress, seeing ancient paintings and gardens. From the top, you get amazing views of this World Heritage Site. Afterwards, we take a tuk tuk ride through Dambulla village and visit the Dambulla Cave Temple to learn about Sri Lanka's history.

4. Day 4

   Sigiriya to Kandy

   We leave Sigiriya after breakfast and head towards Kandy. On the way, we visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage to see rescued elephants. We also stop at a spice garden to learn about local herbs and remedies, before arriving at the Earl's Regent Hotel in Kandy for dinner and an overnight stay.

5. Day 5

   Discover Kandy

   Today we explore Kandy, Sri Lanka's last royal city. We visit the sacred Temple of the Tooth and walk around Kandy Lake. In the evening, we enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan cultural dance performance, then return to our hotel for dinner.

6. Day 6

   Leisure in Kandy

   Enjoy a relaxed morning in Kandy, perhaps visiting the Royal Botanical Gardens. You can relax at your hotel by the river or explore more of the city's charm. We will have dinner and spend the night at the Earl's Regent Hotel.

7. Day 7

   Kandy to Nuwara Eliya

   After breakfast, we travel to the hill country of Nuwara Eliya. We pass tea farms and waterfalls, enjoying stunning views. Once there, we check into the Araliya Green Hills Hotel and explore this charming town, often called 'Little England'.

8. Day 8

   Tea Factory and Pickle Waterfalls

   We start the day with a visit to a tea mill and plantation. Here, we learn how tea is made and enjoy a fresh cup of Ceylon tea. Later, we take a tuk tuk ride to the beautiful Pickle Waterfalls, set among the tea covered hills.

9. Day 9

   Relax and Explore Nuwara Eliya

   Spend today enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya. You can visit Gregory Lake, explore cafes, or simply relax. Enjoy the cool climate and the unique English countryside feel of this town, with dinner at the Araliya Green Hills Hotel.

10. Day 10

    Nuwara Eliya to Maldives

    Today, we transfer to the airport for our flight to the Maldives. On arrival, we take a speedboat to OBLU XPERIENCE Ailafushi. Check into your tropical retreat, relax on the beach, and watch a beautiful sunset over the Indian Ocean.

11. Day 11

    Island Relaxation

    Wake up to stunning ocean views and enjoy a day of pure relaxation. Spend time on the white sand beaches or by the infinity pool. All your meals and drinks are included, allowing you to fully enjoy the tranquil island life.

12. Day 12

    Underwater Exploration

    Today, you have the option to go snorkelling and discover the amazing marine life of the Maldives. The waters are clear, offering great visibility of colourful fish and turtles. Or, you can simply relax on the beach and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

13. Day 13

    Leisure Day in Paradise

    Enjoy another day in the beautiful Maldives. Relax on the beach, listen to the gentle waves, and feel the sea breezes. You can also explore the resort's facilities or treat yourself to a spa treatment, watching another incredible sunset.

14. Day 14

    Final Full Day in the Maldives

    Savour your final full day in this beautiful destination. Relax by the lagoon, enjoy water activities, and take in the panoramic ocean views. Capture photographs of the stunning natural beauty and experience a final magical sunset.

15. Day 15

    Departure from the Maldives

    Enjoy your last breakfast overlooking the ocean. We will then take a speedboat from the resort to the airport for your flight home. We hope you will cherish the memories of your amazing trip, combining culture, mountains, and beaches in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.