Sri Lanka Beauty
A Journey Through the Pearl of the Indian Ocean
February 15 - February 25, 2027Sri Lanka Beauty
February 15 - February 25, 2027Highlights
- Discover the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa
- Private Gem Viewing
- Learn about Traditional Weaving
- Enjoy a Wildlife Safari
- Master the Art of Traditional Drumming
- Time to explore personal interests
- Suggestions for things to see and do
- And More... See itinerary for details
Itinerary
Monday, 15 February 2027: Arrive Colombo; Sri Lanka
Schedule your arrival to Colombo at your convenience. Several grouped transfers are provided from the airport to the hotel based on flight arrival times. The hotel is about 45 minutes from the airport. Most flights arrive late in the evening. No activities are scheduled for this day. Should you arrive earlier in the day, relax at the hotel and rest after the long flight. Overnight Colombo - 2 nights
Tuesday, 16 February 2027: Welcome Meeting; Bawa Architecture Tour; Private Gem Viewing (B,D)
The day begins with our official Welcome Meeting over breakfast at 8:00am. We depart from there to explore Colombo and discover the work of Geoffery Bawa, whose architecture work helped define Sri Lanka's distinctive tropical modern style. Explore Bawa's famed works including Number 11 (Bawa's Residence), De Saram House and Gangaramaya Temple. Admire seamless blends of light, nature and heritage created by this style of architecture. This afternoon, we enjoy a gemstone viewing over canapes and wine. Learn about Sri Lanka's long history as one of the world's notable sources of gemstones. We return to the hotel late this afternoon for time to freshen up before enjoying dinner together.
Wednesday, 17 February 2027: Sevanagama Village Visit with Cooking Class; Onto Sigiriya (B,L)
After breakfast, we depart Colombo and travel by coach into Sri Lanka's lush countryside toward Sigiriya. Along the way, experience daily rural life during a visit to Sevenagama village. Gain insight into local farm practices as we learn about chena cultivation, a 5,000 year old traditional "slash-and-burn" farming system. This immersive stop includes a tractor ride through farmlands, a peaceful catamaran ride across the lake and a village tuk-tuk journey. Take part in a relaxed cooking experience with locals preparing traditional Sri Lankan dishes. We continue on to our hotel and get settled. The evening is yours to relax. Overnight Sigiriya - 2 nights.
Thursday, 18 February 2027: Ancient City of Polonnaruwa (B,L)
Be sure to wear your comfortable walking shoes today! This morning we travel to Priyamli Gedara, a locally celebrated farm-to-table restaurant. Our senses are awakened with the smell of wood smoke and spices from various curries baking in clay pots, all with traditional ingredients sourced from local farms. We enjoy lunch together. This afternoon we visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our guide takes us through the well-preserved temple ruins, famous Buddha statues and monuments of Sri Lanka's history. The complex is roughly 3.5 miles long, not counting the side detours we take to visit the highlights. There are places to stop and rest in the shade if needed. Be sure to see the iconic Gal Vihara Buddha statue carved from granite. We then return to our hotel where the evening is yours to enjoy as you wish.
Friday, 19 February 2027: Dambulla Cave Temple; Spice & Herb Garden Walk; Onto Kandy (B,L,O)
Today we visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the best preserved and largest cave complexes in Sri Lanka, housing more than 150 Buddha statues within five ancient caves. See vibrant murals showing it's rich history as a sacred Buddhist pilgrimage site dating back to the 1st century. We then visit a local spice and herb garden where we learn about the medicinal benefits of various spices while sampling a refreshing herbal drink. Our guide takes us on a walk through plantations to discover a variety of aromatics. After lunch together we travel through scenic landscapes by coach to Kandy. The evening is yours to enjoy as you wish. Overnight Kandy - 2 nights
Saturday, 20 February 2027: Drumming Lesson; Explore Kandy; Royal Botanical Gardens (B,L,O)
For over 2,000 years, drumming has been the rhythmic soul of Sri Lanka, marking major milestones such as births, weddings, funerals and overall healing. We visit the home of a master drummer where we learn about the history of the traditional beats, share a brief lesson and enjoy a cup of traditional Ceylon tea. After lunch together, we explore the town of Kandy on a walking tour with our guide before visit the Royal Botanical Gardens. The gardens are home to over 4,000 species, including a world-renowned collection of more than 300 orchid varieties. Marvel at the Giant Bamboo of Burma towering over 120 feet, the Giant Java Fig Tree and the Avenue of Palms. Tonight is yours to spend as you wish.
Sunday, 21 February 2027: Ramboda Falls; Ella City Tour by Tuk Tuk; Travel to Udawalawe (B,D)
After breakfast we travel through the scenic highlands toward Ella. We make a leisurely stop along the way at Ramboda Falls. At 320 ft tall, these picturesque waterfalls are the highest in the country and offer the perfect backdrop for taking in a breath of mountain air. Upon arrival in Ella, we'll explore this city by tuk-tuk for a unique perspective of this famous hill country town. Pass historic landmarks including Nine Arch Bridge and Demodara Loop, a unique, historic railway where the track spirals through the lush green hills around and beneath its self from a tunnel. It was designed to navigate the steep, challenging terrain of the central highlands. We continue on to Udawalawe where we check into our hotel and have dinner together. Overnight Udawalawe - 2 nights
Monday, 22 February 2027: Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home; Udawalawe National Park Jeep Safari (B,L)
A heartwarming experience awaits you today as we visit the Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home, a rehabilitation center for orphaned baby elephants. Elephants have long been a part of of the country's cultural, religious and economic history. The gentle giants represent centuries of grace, wisdom and strength. The center cares for these animals until they are capable of being released back into the wild and can live independently. Here we observe feeding times and learn about the conservation efforts surrounding these treasured creatures. After lunch together, we enter the Udawalawe National Park for an exciting jeep safari. This park is known for its large herds of Asian elephants seen in their natural habitat. Other wildlife that can be spotted include the sambar deer, water buffalo and a wide variety of birdlife. We return to the hotel this afternoon.
Tuesday, 23 February 2027: Galle Fort Walking Tour; Group Dinner (B,D)
Today we travel along a scenic, coastal journey to the historic city of Galle. This UNESCO World Heritage site is home to the best preserved colonial sea fortress in south Asia. Galle Fort is where salt air mingles with 400 years of of Dutch and Portuguese influences. Galle is a perfect mix of modern meets medieval. Our guide takes us along narrow cobblestone streets lined with charming village shops while we passing the beautiful clock tower, the Dutch Reformed Church and the historic Galle Lighthouse offering views of the turquoise Indian Ocean. Tonight we enjoy dinner together. Overnight Galle - 2 nights
Wednesday, 24 February 2027: Sooriya Weaving Mills; Madu River Boat Safari (B,L)
Sri Lanka has a world-renowned textile heritage. It is a cornerstone of the local economy and a major contributor to the country's exports. Today we see this industry come alive with a visit to a traditional weaving mill. See how traditional weaving techniques are now combined with contemporary design while we meet local artisans, weavers and textile designers. We return for to the hotel for lunch and gear up for an exciting afternoon on a boat safari along the Madu River. Cruise through lush mangrove tunnels and emerald islands while watching for wildlife, specifically diverse birdlife. We return to the hotel late this afternoon where you are free to stroll the alleyways of Galle or relax at the hotel.
Thursday, 25 February 2027: Transfer to Colombo Airport; Farewell Lunch; Return Home from Colombo (B,L)
Sadly, our adventure has come to an end. Make your return flight from Colombo, at your convenience. Most flights depart in the evening. We will travel as a group to Colombo airport. We still stop along the way for our Farewell Lunch arriving to the airport in time for a return flight after 6:00pm.
Sri Lanka Beauty
February 15 - February 25, 2027Pricing
Room Share
$4,941.00Single Room
$6,758.00Non-Members
ADD $100.00Status of this Tour
Space Available
Tour Pricing Includes
- All meals and activities expressly listed in the itinerary, PLUS...
- All tipping of local guides
- Airport transfers
- WTT Tour Leader to enhance the individual & group experience
- Arranged room sharing with another solo traveler
- Travel Dollar credits (a benefit of WTT membership) toward future travel with WTT
Not Included In The Price
- Airfare or other transportation to and from the tour
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Beverages other than coffee, tea & still water unless otherwise noted
- Any personal expenses or expenditures
- Any pre- or post- tour arrangements
- Visa and/or passport fees
- Gratuity for Sri Lankan Guide accompanying the group
- Any gratuities for the WTT Tour Director
- Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance
- Mandatory Emergency Medical / Evacuation Insurance
Payment Dates -and- Cancellation Terms for This Tour
You have 3 days to cancel and receive a refund. Thereafter, the amount required at time of reservation is non-refundable and the following cancellation penalties will be enforced.
Wednesday, 19 Aug 2026: Last day $750 deposit can be converted to a credit for use on a new reservation; thereafter the deposit is forfeited.
Saturday, 7 Nov 2026: Balance Due. Cancellation after this date but before Thursday, 17 Dec 2026 results in a cancellation penalty of 75% of your Total Tour Cost.
Thursday, 17 Dec 2026: Cancellation on or after this date results in a cancellation penalty of 100% of your Total Tour Cost.
Using Parked Credits: If traveler cancels during the 3-day cancel without penalty period, used credits will be re-parked with the original expiration date(s). Thereafter, cancellation will result in forfeiture of the total amount of parked credits used. If applicable, additional cancellation penalties will be assessed based on date of cancellation.
To Cancel: Should you need to cancel after your space on this tour is confirmed, you must use the Cancellation Form. Cancellation penalties are based on the date we receive your cancellation form. No other method of communicating a cancellation will be accepted.
Insurance Reminder
Mandatory Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance is required to take this trip and is not included in the cost of the tour.
Standard health insurance plans often do not cover medical emergencies in other countries. As a solo traveler, insurance is essential to provide support and care coordination in the event of a medical emergency. It must cover air-evacuation from the destination as a result of a medical emergency during the trip.
Suggested companies for Emergency Medical/Evacuation Insurance are: Allianz Travel Insurance and World Nomads.
Trip Cancellation / Trip Interruption Insurance is not included in the cost of the tour. It is your responsibility to determine the amount and type of coverage you require to recoup some or all of your travel investment, whether you cancel, are unable to complete the tour, or the tour cannot operate. Section 4.0 of WTT Terms & Conditions explains what will happen to your payments in the unlikely event that your tour cannot operate. You can purchase travel insurance from any provider you choose. To get an idea of rates, please go to NTA Travel Protection Plan (Enter 206063 for the "Tour Operator Location #") or TravelGuard.
Sri Lanka Beauty
February 15 - February 25, 2027Flights, Transfers & Lodging
Documents Required for this Tour
Passport: Travelers are required to have a valid passport. Most countries require your passport to be valid up to six months after your RETURN date, and have at least two consecutive blank pages.
VISA: US Citizens entering Sri Lanka will require an ETA - Electronic Travel Authorization. All other passport holders should check with the Country's Embassy website to determine if they need a VISA. VISA requirements are based on your country of residence.
For travel less than 30 days, an ETA must be obtained online through their official portal. You will need a valid passport to do so. Cost is currently $20. You must register online before travelling.
Electronic Travel Authorization
Arrival & Departure Information
Travelers will make their own air arrangements as follows:
Arrival Airport: CMB - Colombo, Sri Lanka (Bandaranaike International Airport)
Arrival Date: Monday, February 15. Arrive at your convenience.
Arrival Transfer: Grouped transfers included based on arrival times provided. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
Departure Airport: CMB - Colombo, Sri Lanka (Bandaranaike International Airport)
Departure Date: Thursday, February 25th. In the evening, after 6:00pm.
Departure Transfer: Will be provided. Details will be provided in your Final Travel Instructions.
When to Book Your Air
Once you have booked your flights (or other transportation arrangements), use the Travel Arrangements Form to send WTT your flight details. Use the same form to update your information should it change.
Airport Transfer Information
When arrival transfers are included: The Final Travel Instructions will list the transfer arrangements including who is in your transfer group, where to meet the driver, and who to contact in the unlikely event you cannot locate the driver.
Don't Worry. We're Expecting You: One of the reasons we ask for your travel arrangements is so we know when you're arriving and can approximate when you should be at the hotel. Your Final Travel Instructions will have instructions on what to do and who to contact if your flight is delayed.
Lodging / Hotels
Colombo: Amari Hotel
Sigiriya: Aliya Resort & Spa
Kandy: Golden Crown Hotel
Udawalawe: Grand Udawalawe Safari Resort
Galle: Radisson Blu Hotel
Whenever possible, we choose hotels that are near the city center and/or where there are things to do and places to eat within walking distance of the hotel. When the chosen hotel is not within walking distance of much, transportation options, at the traveler's expense, are typically available.
International Tours: Please be aware that hotels outside the US may have smaller room sizes, may involve steps to enter the hotel and may not have air conditioning. While WTT strives to find hotels that are similar to US standards, we cannot guarantee it.
In the unlikely event WTT is unable to provide the hotel accommodation(s) listed, for whatever reason, WTT will substitute similar quality accommodation(s) at no additional cost to the traveler.
Want to Arrive a Day Early?
Worried about possible flight delays? Consider arriving one day before the official tour start date. Many of our travelers choose this optional service. Your pre-tour package includes:
- The room (standard check-in times apply)
- Breakfast the following morning
- Transfer from airport to hotel
- Optional activity suggestions prior to tour
$143.00 Roomshare pp $236.00 Single Occupancy
Early Arrival Hotel: This tour uses the same hotel used on the first night of the tour.
Sri Lanka Beauty
February 15 - February 25, 2027Destination Information
What do others say about this tour and traveling with WTT?
How Does Room Sharing Work?
On the Reservation Form there are 3 choices regarding room-sharing.
Note: Certain room-types may be unavailable at the time you make your reservation. If a room-type is unavailable the choice will be greyed out.
- Select "Yes, I want to share a room" and WTT will assign you a roommate when Final Travel Instructions are sent.
- You can specify a roommate by entering her name where indicated. If your named roommate is not on the tour, for any reason, WTT will assign you a roommate unless you pay to have your own room, if available.
- Select "No, I do not wish to share a room" if you want to have your own room. Additional costs apply.
- All shared rooms have 2 beds
- All shared rooms are non-smoking
- No special requests about your roommate can be accommodated
- See "Frequently Asked Questions" TAB for more details
How Active is this Tour?
- 40% Easy
- 50% Moderate (multiple walking tours, cobblestone and uneven surfaces, hot and humid weather)
- 10% Strenuous (underdeveloped infrastructure, time change)
As a solo traveler you are responsible for yourself, your possessions, your physical fitness, and all other aspects related to participation in the WTT tour you have chosen. Be sure to read the itinerary closely to better understand the physical requirements necessary for the tour.
WTT tours are not suitable for anyone whose mobility is challenged or compromised. If you struggle with walking, standing or negotiating stairs or if you are in doubt as to your ability to meet the physical activity requirements, you should not sign up for this trip.
What is the Group Size?
You will be introduced to the WTT Tour Leader when you receive your Final Travel Instructions, about 2-3 weeks before the tour begins.
Learn about your fellow travelers after final payment by visiting MyWTT. Room sharing assignments will be listed in the Final Travel Instructions.
What meals are included and how are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Each day of the itinerary lists the included meals for that day (B,L,D,O=Other). When a meal is not included, the WTT Tour Director will have suggestions for where to eat.
You do not have to dine alone unless it is your personal choice. You'll most likely be dining with new acquaintances you've made, or you can join the Tour Director.
Dietary Restrictions on International Tours: WTT has limited to no control over food selections or variety from meal-to-meal, especially at hotels. While we do our best to accommodate dietary restrictions and ensure variety of options, we cannot guarantee either.
What clothing and items should I pack for this trip?
In general the temperature, rainfall and humidity levels vary based on the time of the year. We suggest you monitor weather apps leading up to the time you depart for the most current information.
Clothing Requirements to enter Temples:
- Long pants or long skirts.
- Footwear must be removed at the entrance. Wearing socks is recommended for the hot pavement.
- No hats, caps, or scarves (on the head).
- Avoid tight-fitting or revealing clothing.
- Wraps and sarongs are sometimes available to cover up.
For This Trip You May Want—
- Light breathable clothing (linen or cotton)
- Shoes that are comfortable for walking
- Refillable water bottle
- Little packs of tissues for public restrooms
- Swimwear
- Sunscreen, Hat, Sunglasses
- Smart-casual wear if you'd like to dress up a bit for dinners
- Lightweight but warm jacket/sweater for the cool mornings and evenings or the unusually brisk day
- Inexpensive rain poncho or travel umbrella, just in case
Good Packing Habits—
- Bring what you need to get a good night's sleep, such as ear plugs, white noise generator, sleeping aids, etc. Unfamiliar noises of all types can disrupt your rest.
- Pack a limited amount of comfortable, casual clothing that layer and coordinate. Your fellow travelers will not mind or even notice – seeing you in the same clothing.
- Bring only two pairs of everyday shoes: one pair of well-broken-in walking shoes, and a second pair that could do double-duty as a walking shoe or a slightly dressy shoe.
- Pare down your beauty regimen to the bare minimum and always pack travel-sized toiletries.
- Pack medication in your carry-on and pack only as much as needed for the duration of your tour plus a few extra days as a precaution.
What are the luggage restrictions for this tour?
On every WTT tour, our policies regarding luggage restrictions are driven by the physical space limitations of the vehicles we use, the requirement that all travelers be able to manage their own belongings without assistance and the restrictions imposed by other forms of transportation such as [trains and small planes].
- It is best to travel as lightly as possible. Most travelers regret when they have packed too much.
- You may bring one suitcase plus a carry-on bag.
- We recommend your suitcase be no larger than 26 inches high as measured from the FLOOR to the top of the retracted handle to make it easy for you to handle yourself.
- You are responsible for managing your own belongings. We expect you to take your belongings from the coach to your room and to bring it back to the coach on days we change hotels. We do not provide luggage pulls; they are not safe and are inconvenient.
- Steps exist at most hotel entrances. On occasion the coach must unload passengers and luggage some distance from the hotel entrance.
- Keep in mind that you will be traversing airports as part of this itinerary and will need to handle your own luggage through customs. You will need to pay any and all charges you may incur by the airlines from overweight luggage.
What are the health recommendations for this tour?
Tap water in Sri Lanka is generally not considered safe for tourists to drink, as it can cause stomach illnesses. It is strongly recommended to drink bottled, boiled, or filtered water. While tap water is generally fine for brushing teeth, bottled water is widely available and safer for consumption.
While there are no specific vaccine requirements for Sri Lanka, the Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommends you be up-to-date on routine vaccinations while traveling to any destination. The CDC provides additional guidance at https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/list. Please discuss any vaccine or health concerns with your healthcare provider.
The possibility of contact with mosquitoes exists in Sri Lanka, especially during the rainy season. It is good practice to avoid being bitten. You can significantly reduce the chance of being bitten by wearing protective clothing (long sleeves and pants) and using a quality mosquito repellent. Consumer Reports recommends brands containing 20% Picaridin or 25% DEET as the best defense against all types of mosquitoes and biting insects. Avoid natural or herbal based repellents as they do not provide adequate protection from being bitten.
What are the phone and internet recommendations for this tour?
- You should understand what your current cell phone plan includes in terms of data and minutes. Some, like certain T-Mobile plans, include an international package.
- Contact your cell phone service provider before departing about adding an international calling plan. Most carriers have flat daily rates which will allow your US-based phone to be functional upon arrival in a foreign country.
- Managing data while traveling internationally is important. Using WiFi when available and communicating through apps like What's App help you manage data usage while traveling.
- Learn how to make an international call BEFORE you leave. Consult your cell provider and check out the website www.HowtoCallAbroad.com.
What are the electricity requirements for this tour?
How much money should I bring on this tour?
Only you can determine the optimum amount of cash to take on tour. When budgeting for out-of-pocket expenses, there are several aspects to consider: whether the country you are visiting is a cash-based society, the number of meals you are responsible for, your individual shopping interests and habits, and tipping expectations.
- The official currency of Sri Lanka is the Sri Lankan Rupee (LKR).
- ATMs are typically the best way of obtaining local currency; they are found in most airports and tourist destinations. ATMs of major banks often give much better exchange rates than currency-exchange kiosks.
- If using a debit card, it is good practice to limit the amount of cash available in the account and simply transfer money from another account if you need more at any point on tour. Always use caution when withdrawing money.
- Many travelers feel more comfortable having local currency before they depart for the tour. You may be able to order currency from your bank. Smaller shops, street vendors and tuk-tuk drivers require cash.
- Notify your credit card issuer that you will be traveling and provide dates of travel.
- Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, although many cards charge a foreign transaction fee. Be sure to investigate your card of choice as there are many that do not impose these fees and are better suited for international travel.
- If a merchant gives you the choice between making your transaction in USD or the local currency, always choose the local currency, to avoid dynamic currency conversion which includes a conversion fee.
What are the tipping guidelines for this tour?
- You are responsible for Tipping the In-Country Escort who travels with the group. Budget $5-10 a day
- We suggest you read up on tipping culture in the various places you will be visiting so you can show your appreciation for any personal service provided with an appropriate gratuity.
- Round up fares in taxis and tuk tuks. Restaurants sometimes include a service fee but otherwise 10% is standard.
- You may want to tip your WTT Tour Director for an outstanding job. The amount is entirely a personal preference. If you'd like a guideline, consider $8-$10 per day.
Can I transfer my deposit to another tour?
To get off this tour and register for another tour, you must follow these steps - in the order shown:
2) WAIT before submitting your new reservation! You must receive the Cancellation Confirmation email before submitting your new reservation. This can take up to 2 business days. The Cancellation Confirmation email will list the amount of parked credits from this tour that are now available to use on a new reservation.
3) COMPLETE the new Reservation Form and USE the parked credits towards your deposit on the new tour.
Note: If you used Parked Credits to pay the deposit on this tour, these credits cannot be used a second time and are not eligible to be transferred.
What happens if I need to cancel this tour?
Sri Lanka Beauty
February 15 - February 25, 2027SPACE RESERVATION REQUEST
If becoming a member and signing up for a tour at the same time, you only need to fill out this form.

Our Promise to You
It doesn’t matter which tour you choose.
You’ll find your people and make memories that last a lifetime.

