Christmas in Sri Lanka
Christmas in Sri Lanka
$5173
Christmas in Sri Lanka
17 Days Starting and ending in Colombo, Sri Lanka
Visiting: Colombo, Sigiriya, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Dambulla, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya, Udawalawe, Yala National Park, Hikkaduwa, Galle, Kosgoda
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2307
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Cultural, Festive and New Year, Gardens & Nature Tours, Rail Tours, Wildlife Tours
Tour Overview
Experience the magic of Christmas in Sri Lanka with a captivating cultural tour that takes you through the island's rich history and breathtaking landscapes. Begin your journey in Colombo, where you can unwind and explore at your leisure. Discover the awe-inspiring Sigiriya rock fortress, the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, and the sacred sites of Anuradhapura. Immerse yourself in local culture with a village experience in Hiriwaduna and a visit to the Dambulla Cave Temple. Enjoy a scenic train ride to Nuwara Eliya, where Christmas festivities await, including a visit to a tea plantation and a traditional Christmas lunch. Embark on a thrilling safari in Yala National Park, relax on the beaches of Hikkaduwa, and explore the historic Galle Fort. Conclude your adventure with a visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery and a New Year's celebration in Colombo. This unforgettable journey promises a festive season filled with wonder and discovery.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Arrive Colombo
Location: Colombo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
On arrival you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where you have the day at leisure to settle-in, relax and enjoy your surroundings.
Day 3: Sigiriya
Location: Sigiriya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast you will travel to Dambulla, visiting Sigiriya rock fortress late this afternoon. This impressive rock, the landmark of Sri Lanka, is thought of as the eighth wonder of the world, amongst the locals. Enjoy magnificent views, rock decorated in colourful frescos and beautiful gardens when you summit.
Day 4: Polonnaruwa
Location: Polonnaruwa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you visit Hiriwaduna for a local village experience, from a catamaran ride on the lake, a tuk tuk trip to a local home, learning to prepare an authentic dish. Next is Polonnaruwa an ancient city, where the impressive stone culture recalls an inspired past.
Day 5: Anuradhapura
Location: Anuradhapura
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set off for Anuradhapura, exploring this magnificent ancient city on foot. Visit the massive Buddhist shrines, splendid palaces, parks and pavilions of this sacred city, dating back to the 5th century BC.
Day 6: Dambulla
Location: Dambulla
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning you will be taken to visit the most popular religious cultural site, Dambulla Cave Temple. En-route to Kandy stop at the spice garden in Matale, boasting incredible views of the Aluvihare Mountains. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic followed by an amazing cultural dance show in the evening.
Day 7: Kandy
Location: Kandy
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast take a boat ride on Kandy Lake, giving you breathtaking views of the picturesque city, and from where you can observe a variety of bird species such as the Indian cormorants, wood storks and pelicans. Enjoy a relaxing afternoon at your hotel before heading out this evening for a walk in Udawattekele rainforest.
Day 8: Christmas Eve - Nuwara Eliya
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today after breakfast you will be taken to Nuwara Eliya by train, travelling along what is known as one of the most picturesque journeys in the world. Travel through tea plantations, lush forests as you ascend into the mist of the hillside. Relax in the afternoon before the Christmas Eve festivities begin.
Day 9: Christmas Day - Nuwara Eliya
Location: Nuwara Eliya
Accommodation Name: Grand Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Merry Christmas! Start the day with a visit to a tea plantation dressed in handmade, traditional silk sarees amongst the locals. Return to the hotel for the Christmas celebrations with a scrumptious Christmas lunch and lots of celebrations, followed later with High Tea in the beautiful gardens of the Grand Hotel, the perfect way to end off this magical Christmas Day.
Day 10: Udawalawe
Location: Udawalawe
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast proceed to Yala, with a stop at Udawalawe Elephant Transit Home before participate in the process of curd making. Though buffalo curd is a quintessential favourite in the Sri Lankan pantry, its arduous journey, from teat to table, is often unheeded. Enjoy a fresh sip of milk after trying your hand milking a buffalo and end this experience by relishing a fresh pot of curd sweetened with treacle.
Day 11: Yala National Park
Location: Yala National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Early morning, and later this afternoon, you will be taken for a jeep safari at Yala National park, where you will embark on an adventure safari through the park.
Day 12: Hikkaduwa
Location: Hikkaduwa
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head towards Hikkaduwa, where you will enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Day 13: Galle Fort
Location: Galle
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast you will be visiting Galle Fort, set on the peninsula within the walled remains of a fortress. Walk to the lighthouse on its perimeter and visit the Old Dutch Church with its tombstone covered floor before a stroll along the Rampart.
Day 14: Kosgoda Turtle Sanctuary
Location: Kosgoda
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery is a must. Travel to the Hatchery, visiting a cinnamon plantation on the way, Learn all there is to know about the uses and benefits of cinnamon and try your hand with the tools of the trade in an Ambalama. Go on to witness the exceptional sight at the Turtle Hatchery and see the eggs hatching or the turtles being returned to the sea, moving towards the water as they flap their tiny flippers.
Day 15: Travel To Colombo
Location: Colombo
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast return to Colombo for a tour around this amazing city. Enjoy the celebrations of New Year's Eve with a dinner at the hotel.
Day 16: Colombo At Leisure
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend New Year's Day at leisure, discovering the many gems of Colombo.
Day 17: Depart Colombo
Location: Colombo
Meals Included: Breakfast
Any time before your flight is free to further explore the vibrant city of Colombo independently. Later, transfer to the airport to board your onward flight home.
What's Included
-
Airport Transfer
On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
-
Meals
Meals are provided as part of the tour, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner on various days.
-
Guided Tours
Guided tours are included for various attractions such as Sigiriya rock fortress, Polonnaruwa, Anuradhapura, Dambulla Cave Temple, and more.
-
Cultural Experiences
Experience local culture with activities such as a catamaran ride, tuk tuk trip, and learning to prepare an authentic dish.
-
Jeep Safari
A jeep safari at Yala National Park is included.
-
Train Journey
A train journey to Nuwara Eliya, known as one of the most picturesque journeys in the world, is included.
-
Christmas Celebrations
Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrations, including a scrumptious Christmas lunch and High Tea, are included.
-
New Year's Eve Dinner
A New Year's Eve dinner at the hotel is included.
What's Not Included
-
International Flights
International flights to and from Sri Lanka are not included.
-
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
-
Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
-
Optional Activities
Any optional activities or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
-
Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into Sri Lanka are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation details are not provided in the tour description.
Accommodation
Accommodation details are not provided in the tour description.
Experiences
Kosgada Turtle Hatchery
Tour the wonderful conservation project at Kosgada, where a specialist turtle hatchery works tirelessly to protect Sri Lanka's native sea turtle species, and meet its residents.
Yala National Park
Enjoy two opportunities to spot wildlife with a morning and afternoon safari in Yala National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for sloth bear, hyena and the elusive leopard!
Unforgettable train journey
A journey to remember as you travel through misty pine forests and lush tea plantations, over the nine arch bridge on one of the world's most scenic train routes.
Check out our Q&As
-
What can I expect on the first day of the tour?
On the first day, you will arrive in Colombo where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You will have the day at leisure to settle in, relax, and enjoy your surroundings.
-
What activities are planned for Day 3 in Sigiriya?
On Day 3, after breakfast, you will travel to Dambulla and visit the Sigiriya rock fortress in the afternoon. You can enjoy magnificent views, colorful frescos, and beautiful gardens when you reach the summit.
-
What unique experiences are included in the visit to Polonnaruwa?
During the visit to Polonnaruwa, you will have a local village experience in Hiriwaduna, which includes a catamaran ride on the lake, a tuk-tuk trip to a local home, and learning to prepare an authentic dish. You will also explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, known for its impressive stone culture.
-
What will I see in Anuradhapura?
In Anuradhapura, you will explore the ancient city on foot, visiting massive Buddhist shrines, splendid palaces, parks, and pavilions. This sacred city dates back to the 5th century BC.
-
What is special about the train journey to Nuwara Eliya?
The train journey to Nuwara Eliya is known as one of the most picturesque journeys in the world. You will travel through tea plantations and lush forests as you ascend into the mist of the hillside.
-
How is Christmas Day celebrated on this tour?
On Christmas Day, you will visit a tea plantation dressed in handmade, traditional silk sarees. The day includes a scrumptious Christmas lunch and celebrations, followed by High Tea in the beautiful gardens of the Grand Hotel.
-
What can I expect during the visit to the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery?
At the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery, you will learn about the uses and benefits of cinnamon at a plantation and witness the exceptional sight of turtle eggs hatching or turtles being returned to the sea.
-
What activities are planned for New Year's Eve in Colombo?
On New Year's Eve, you will return to Colombo for a tour around the city and enjoy the celebrations with a dinner at the hotel.
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
-
Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
-
What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
-
Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Thursday
Dec 17, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Tuesday - Thursday
Dec 17, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Tuesday - Thursday
Dec 17, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Tuesday - Thursday
Dec 17, 2024 - Jan 02, 2025Wednesday - Friday
Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026Wednesday - Friday
Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026Wednesday - Friday
Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026Wednesday - Friday
Dec 17, 2025 - Jan 02, 2026Thursday - Saturday
Dec 17, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027Thursday - Saturday
Dec 17, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027Thursday - Saturday
Dec 17, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027Thursday - Saturday
Dec 17, 2026 - Jan 02, 2027Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
-
Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
