Discover the Wonders of Sri Lanka: A 16-Day Cultural and Wildlife Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable journey through Sri Lanka, a land brimming with rich history, vibrant culture, and jaw-dropping landscapes. This 16-day immersive tour will take you from the bustling streets of Colombo to the serene beaches of Trincomalee, through the island's famous wildlife parks, ancient temples, and verdant tea plantations. Meet local artisans, experience thrilling safaris, explore UNESCO World Heritage sites, and indulge in traditional Sri Lankan cuisine. From the cultural heart of Kandy to the northern reaches of Jaffna, this trip will captivate your senses and leave you with memories to last a lifetime.

This trip offers great value as many meals are included as well as most of the accommodations are 4-5 star. You will find that there are many included activities, from cooking classes to safaris. 

We specialize in small groups of 18 people maximum.

**Please be aware that you must be able to walk up to 3 miles during a day and be able to manage your own luggage up steps if need be. 

**Our tours are for adults only. We take you away from your everyday world and the necessary distractions of family life.  

• Ride around the ancient ruins of Anuradhapura on a bike tour, cycling through the jungle to see the dagobas, palaces, and pools of a city abandoned over 1000 years ago.
• Search for crocodiles, elephants, monkeys and the ever-elusive leopards on 4 safari experiences.
• Explore an area of Sri Lanka only recently opened to tourism – considered to be off-limits for years due to the civil war, the gates to Jaffna are now open to adventurers once more. Discover Tamil culture and see Point Pedro – Sri Lanka’s northernmost point.
• Visit Sigiriya Lion Rock – a UNESCO World Heritage site – and if you’re game, climb the steps to the top for amazing views over the jungle.
• Explore the divine city of Kandy, mingling with pilgrims at the Temple of the Tooth, touring a tea factory, and taking in the views of this lush lakefront town.
• Unwind on the sandy beaches of Mirissa, where the waters are clear and warm, and monkeys play in the swaying palms that line the shores.
• Learn about Sri Lanka’s past first-hand during your Feature Stay at the gorgeous Grand Hotel in Nuwara Eliya – first established in 1891, this historic hotel has a modern outlook on sustainable practices.
• Discover the breadth of Sri Lanka’s food scene during Exclusive Experiences, including a cooking class, dinner in a local's home, a high tea in Nuwara Eliya, and a barbecue dinner.

We're committed to ensuring our trips remain safe for everyone — for our travelers, our leaders and crew, and the people we visit along the way. As responsible travelers, anyone who chooses to travel with us has a duty of care to themselves and the people around them. Travelers are required to comply with local regulations and laws. 

What are the medical and vaccination requirements? 

Medical and general vaccination requirements differ between nations, and as we are not medical practitioners, we unfortunately cannot advise on this issue. Please see your local GP or travel doctor for details and advice about current vaccination requirements.

We believe vaccinations play a key role in saving lives and helping to keep people safe. Around 70% of the world is vaccinated against COVID-19, but vaccination rates remain low in some of the destinations and communities we visit. Therefore, a COVID vaccine is required on all of our trips.

All travelers must have a valid passport for international travel and many countries require at least 6 months validity from the date of return. Some countries also require a machine-readable passport and/or unstamped available pages. When assisting with an international travel booking, we will assume that all travelers on the booking have a valid passport. If this is not the case, you must let us know. It is important to ensure you have valid passports, visas, and re-entry permits which meet the requirements of immigration and other government authorities. Any fines, penalties, payments, delay, or expenditures incurred as a result of such documents not meeting the requirements of those authorities will be your sole responsibility.

Need a passport? Click here -> U.S. Passport

Need to renew your passport? Click here -> Renew U.S. Passport

We exercise care in the selection of reputable travel service providers but we are not ourselves a provider of travel services and have no control over, or liability for, the services provided by third parties.  

In no event do we accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for any injury, damage, loss, delay, additional expense, or inconvenience caused directly or indirectly by the acts, omissions or default, whether negligent or otherwise, of third party providers over whom we have no direct control, force majeure, or any other event which is beyond our control or which is not preventable by reasonable diligence on our part. We also do not accept any liability in contract, tort or otherwise, for consequential loss (meaning indirect loss, loss of revenue, loss of reputation, loss of profits, loss of actual or anticipated savings, lost opportunities, including opportunities to enter into arrangements with third parties or loss or damage in connection with claims against you by third parties) howsoever caused in connection with your booking.

Risks of Travel and Release: We assume no responsibility for and shall not be liable for the acts or omissions on the part of any other party not under our control or any acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards including pandemics, illness, weather hazards, or the suitability for a disabled person of any portion of any trip. We have no special knowledge of dangers during travel or at destinations. For information related to such dangers, we recommend going to the State Department travel website at travel.state.gov, click on "Find International travel Information" then click on "Country Information", and fill in the name of the destination country. For medical and health information, we recommend going to the Centers for Disease Control website at cdc.gov/travel, then click on "Destinations" and scroll to the name of the destination country. It is your personal decision to travel, and you are doing so with full knowledge of current travel recommendations and travel restrictions with regards to the risks of COVID-19. YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY ASSUME ALL OF THESE RISKS AND DANGERS, AND YOU HEREBY EXPRESSLY AGREE TO FOREVER RELEASE, DISCHARGE AND HOLD US, AND OUR AGENTS, EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, ASSOCIATES, AFFILIATED COMPANIES, GUIDES, GROUP LEADERS, AND SUBCONTRACTORS HARMLESS AGAINST ANY AND ALL LIABILITY, ACTIONS, CAUSES OF ACTIONS, SUITS, CLAIMS, AND DEMANDS OF ANY AND EVERY KIND AND NATURE WHATSOEVER WHICH YOU NOW HAVE OR WHICH MAY HEREAFTER ARISE OUT OF OR IN CONNECTION WITH THESE RISKS AND Dangers.

If you cancel within 30 days of making your deposit, you will receive a 100% refund minus a $150 admin fee per spot reserved.

If you cancel between 31 days after booking and 180 days before the trip, you will receive a 50% refund minus the $150 admin fee.

No refunds will be given if you cancel within 180 days of the trip’s start date.

Note: If you find someone to fill your spot, I can transfer your balance to them minus the $150 fee, provided the transfer is made at least 60 days before departure. If you become ill or encounter other issues, it is highly likely that the required travel insurance will cover your costs, so please check with your provider.

It is the responsibility of the trip attendee to reach out in the event of a cancellation and to make their payments on time. We reserve the right to retain payments according to the cancellation policy outlined above in order to pay our vendors and ensure the trip can proceed.

By making a deposit, you agree to the above terms of service and cancellation policy.

Travel insurance will help protect your investment and is required for all of our trips (but not required at the time of booking). We recommend and use World Nomads.  If you are over 70 we recommend using Insure My Trip.  

To ensure smooth operations for our trips, we kindly ask that all payments are made on time. If a payment is 15 or more days past due, a $50 late fee will be applied to your balance.

We understand that unexpected situations can arise. If you need to adjust your payment plan or have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to Melissa at [melissa@pennypinchingglobetrotter.com]. 

We’re happy to work with you to find a solution. Thank you for your cooperation and understanding!

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we are committed to providing an enjoyable and inclusive travel experience for all our guests. To ensure a smooth and harmonious trip for everyone, we have established this Group Travel Code of Conduct. All participants are expected to follow these guidelines to promote a respectful and supportive group dynamic. 

 1. Respect and Cooperation - All travelers are expected to treat each other with kindness, respect, and courtesy at all times. This includes: 

 - Listening to others' opinions and experiences without judgment. 

- Offering help and support to fellow travelers when needed.

 - Communicating openly and constructively to resolve any misunderstandings or concerns that arise. 

  2. Personal Attacks and Harassment - Personal attacks, harassment, or any form of abusive language directed at fellow travelers will not be tolerated. This includes, but is not limited to: 

 - Insulting or belittling others for any reason including remarks based on race, nationality, gender, religion, appearance, or personal beliefs.

 - Making derogatory or offensive remarks, either in person or through digital communication channels (e.g., group chats or emails). 

 - Engaging in behavior that causes distress, harm, or discomfort to others. 

 3. Disruptive Behavior - Traveler's should ensure their behavior does not disrupt the group's activities or the overall enjoyment of the trip. This includes:

 - Avoiding excessive arguments or conflicts that disturb the group’s harmony. 

 - Engaging in proactive problem-solving rather than contributing to negativity. 

 - Being considerate of group plans/schedules and communicating any issues promptly to the group leader or host.

 4. Accountability and Responsibility - Each traveler is responsible for their actions. Should conflicts arise, all involved parties are encouraged to: 

 - Address concerns calmly and privately, when possible.

 - Seek the assistance of the group leader or host if mediation is needed.

- Understand that repeated violations of this policy may result in removal from the trip with no refund. 

5. Group Dynamics and Social Interaction - Group travel is a chance to connect and share experiences with others. We encourage all travelers to: 

 - Participate in group activities with an open mind and a collaborative spirit. 

 - Be inclusive and welcoming to fellow travelers, regardless of their background or personal views.

 - Show empathy and understanding toward the diverse personalities and cultures within the group.  

6. Consequences for Violating the Policy - Failure to adhere to this Code of Conduct may result in the following consequences: 

 - A verbal warning from the group leader or host. 

- In extreme cases, expulsion from the trip without refund, if the behavior continues despite prior warnings. 

In addition, any traveler who exhibits consistently disruptive behavior, or who repeatedly violates the principles outlined in this policy, will no longer be permitted to travel with Penny Pinching Globetrotter in the future. We reserve the right to refuse service to individuals whose actions compromise the experience of other travelers or the integrity of the group.

At Penny Pinching Globetrotter, we aim to create positive, memorable travel experiences for all. By following this policy, we ensure that everyone can enjoy their trip in a respectful and supportive environment. 

By booking your spot on this trip, you are agreeing to the policy outlined above. 

Ayu-bowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka. Your adventure begins in the vibrant city of Colombo, Sri Lanka's bustling commercial capital. Arrive and relax before meeting your tour leader for a welcome meeting at 3 pm. Here you’ll meet your group leader and travel companions.  

Afterwards, join your group leader for a short guided walking tour of the city. Step out into the lively streets where you'll encounter local markets, intriguing architecture, and the true pulse of the city. End the day with an optional group dinner. 

Included Activity

• Walking tour

 Arrival Transfer

• Excluded (bookable upon check out)

Note - the flight here is long and jet lag is a real possibility. We highly recommended coming in a day or two early if you can, so that you are feeling your best when the trip starts.  

Special Information

It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.

If you are staying late or arriving early you can add extra nights at check out here or you might find it cheaper to book yourself via hotels.com  I am an affiliate with them and when you use my link I earn a small commission at no cost to you. 

Looking for something to do today? Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours:  Viator  & Getyourguide 

Accommodation

Fairway Colombo Hotel or similar 

After breakfast, journey to Galle, home to a UNESCO World Heritage-listed Dutch Fort. Wander through the historical streets lined with colonial-era buildings and old-world charm. Meet Mr. Sunil, a master woodcarver, who will show you the intricate art of traditional Sri Lankan wood carving and encourage you to give it a go yourself. 

In the evening, enjoy a stroll around the historic Galle Fort. The Galle Fort is the largest remaining fortress in Asia constructed by any European imperial powers. Also known as Dutch Fort or Ramparts of Galle, this architectural and archaeological wonder was first built in 1588 by the Portuguese and lavishly rebuilt by the Dutch during the 17th century. After you see the fort, have your camera ready as you enjoy the sunset from the ramparts.

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Included Activities

• Wood Carving Demonstration

• Walk in Galle Dutch Fortress

Accommodation

Heritage Galle Fort Hotel or similar

This morning, head to a local female artisan's workshop for a demonstration on Beeralu lace weaving. Learn about this practice and how the local artisan hails from a family of traditional Beeralu lace makers. Beeralu is a form of pillow lace that’s hand woven in intricate patterns, often in delicate shades of white. Believed to have

been introduced by the Portuguese in the 16th century, you’ll learn more about the history of this art.

In the afternoon, arrive in Mirissa by private bus. The rest of the day is yours to enjoy at your tranquil beach retreat. 

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Included Activities

• Beeralu Lace Weaving Experience

Accommodation

Paradise Beach Club Mirissa or similar

After a hearty breakfast, enjoy free time until about 11 am when we will travel to Bundala National Park. Bundala National Park offers thrilling safari experiences, particularly noted for bird watching and wildlife spotting. You will join a half-day safari in the afternoon from 2:30 pm to 6:30 pm. The park is home to diverse wildlife, including crocodiles, deer, elephants, and monkeys. It's strategically located near several other national parks, enhancing the safari experience.

Special Information:

Please note that the drive from Mirissa to Bundala National Park will take approx. 2 hours and the drive from Bundala National Park to Udawalawe will take approx. 1.5 hours.

Meals Included

• Breakfast

Included:

• Bundala National Park – Afternoon Safari

Accommodation: 

Athgira River Camp or similar (Permanent Campsite)

Early this morning, drive to Udawalawe National Park and hop in a jeep for the morning safari inside the park. This park has an amazing array of animals and birdlife, with more herds of wild elephants than anywhere else in Sri Lanka. Following lunch, enjoy another safari in the afternoon. Other wildlife regularly spotted here includes macaques and larger monkeys, spotted deer, crocodiles and sometimes even leopards. Return to the campsite at around 6 pm after a full day of adventure.

Meals Included

• Breakfast & Dinner

Included Activities

• Udawalawe National Park – Full Day Safari (Morning & Afternoon)

Accommodation

Athgira River Camp or similar (Permanent Campsite)

Depart Udawalawe and head towards Nuwara Eliya, known as the 'Little England' of Sri Lanka. Set among lush tea plantations at an elevation of 1,800 meters, it is one of the coolest regions in the country. Once favored by the Scots and English, remnants of the past are visible in the city's sculpted gardens and manor homes. 

When you arrive, explore the charming town at your own pace (if time permits) before heading to your accommodation. Tucked away among tea plantations and scenic hills is the Grand Hotel – a gorgeous National Heritage Property first established in 1891. As a nod to the region's history, rooms are classically decorated with all modern amenities. 

This afternoon, enjoy a high tea experience at your hotel. Converted from the former home of a British governor, the hotel now offers an impressive selection of tea paired with finger food and confectionery. This evening, maybe explore the hotel’s palatial gardens or settle in for a first-class dining experience at one of the on-site restaurants (not included).

Special Information:

The drive from Udawalawe to Nuwara Eliya will take approx. 4 hours.

Meals included

• Breakfast

• High Tea

Included Activities

• High Tea Experience at The Grand Hotel

Accommodation

The Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya or similar

This morning, head to a nearby local factory to see the traditional methods of processing Ceylon tea. This fascinating factory still features some original pieces of machinery. You’ll have a new appreciation for your humble morning brew after learning about the production process and discovering how the finest tea leaves are transformed into Ceylon black tea. If touring the factory inspires a thirst, you’ll have the chance to sample some of the final product yourself.

After completing the tour, return to Nanu Oya and board the train for one of the most scenic journeys in Sri Lanka, traveling from Nanu Oya to Kandy through mist-covered hills and sprawling tea plantations.

Special Information:

Train tickets are in very high demand. We always try our best to secure tickets, but on the rare occasion that we cannot book them, you’ll continue your journey by private vehicle.

Included Activities

• Visit a Tea Factory/Plantation

• Scenic Train Journey from Nanu Oya to Kandy

Accommodation

Thilanka Hotel Kandy or similar

This morning, meet with a local botanist for their expert insight as you take a guided tour of the Royal Botanical Gardens. Your guide will help you spot Yellow-Fronted Barbets, Layards Parakeets, and Sri Lankan Hanging Parrots, and introduce you to an unbelievable array of orchids. You’ll also visit the gem museum and lapidary,

where you can learn about the history of gem mining in Sri Lanka and see how gems are turned into beautiful pieces of jewelry.

This evening, visit the famous Temple of the Tooth Relic. Located in the heart of town, this is the most important shrine in the country, housing a relic of a tooth of Buddha taken from his funeral pyre. Arrive in time and you may have the chance to witness the pooja – a small ceremony of reverence involving drummers and dancers.

Later this evening, join a local family for dinner and learn the steps to a traditional Kandayan dance during some lessons from local performers.

Meals Included

• Breakfast & Dinner 

Included Activities

• Visit Royal Botanical Gardens Peradeniya

• Kandy Temple of Tooth

• Traditional Dance Class followed by Dinner at a Local Home

Accommodation

Thilanka Hotel Kandy or similar

This morning, start your journey to Dambulla/Sigiriya. Along the way, stop off in the city of Matale where you will visit a local spice garden and learn about the spices that have played such an important role in Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage.

Settle into your hotel and in the late afternoon, head out for one of the highlights of any visit to Sri Lanka – the magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site of the palace of Sigiriya (Lion Rock). This dramatic rocky outcrop, rising from the surrounding plains, is topped by a ruined palace. It's a good workout to get to the top, but the

sight makes it well worth it. Your leader will share stories of the ancient civilization who once lived atop the rock as you climb. 

In the evening, return to Dambulla for a Sri Lankan style barbecue. Tuck into a delicious array of fresh grilled fish, meat, and vegetables, and watch a demonstration on how to make chili and coconut sambol, so you can recreate the taste of Sri Lanka at home.

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Dinner

Included Activities

• Visit Matale Spice Garden

• Sigiriya Rock Fortress

• BBQ Dinner

Accommodation

Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka or similar

After breakfast, make your way to Polonnaruwa to continue your explorations of the cultural triangle. Hop on a bicycle to discover well-preserved temples, tombs, and stupas in Polonnaruwa’s ancient Quadrangle complex. it’s not hard to imagine what this place looked like in all its former glory. Visit the remains of a seven-story

royal palace, the rock temple of Gal Vihara and the statue of 12th century king Parakrama I. The area we will bike is fairly flat and a better way to see the area than walking.

For lunch, you’ll visit a local grandmother’s house, who will show you how to make dhal curry and pol sambol from scratch – you'll even shred coconut yourself using a traditional scraper tool!

After lunch at a local house, make your way to the village of Muriya Kadawala, where you’ll learn about traditional Sri Lankan pottery techniques and try your hand at the craft yourself. You’ll also sample a local herbal drink accompanied by a piece of halapa (a sweet treat wrapped in kenda leaves).

Meals Included

• Breakfast and Lunch

Included Activities

• Polonnaruwa Ancient Ruins by Bicycles

• Cooking Demo and Lunch in Polonnaruwa

• Muriyakadawala Village – Pottery Experience

Accommodation

Sigiriana Resort by Thilanka or similar

Travel to the coastal town of Trincomalee, home to one of the world’s finest deep-water harbors, which has attracted famous sailors like Marco Polo to its shores.

Visit a local village to discover how tappers extract toddy directly from the flowers, and observe how palmyrah leaves are woven to create various items. Then, join local women as they prepare odiyal kool (a traditional Tamil seafood soup), and enjoy a taste yourself.

In the afternoon you’ll have free time to maybe visit the colorful and intricate Pathirakali Amman Hindu temple or sit back, relax and enjoy the lazy beach lifestyle. at our beach front resort.

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Lunch

Included Activities

• Trincomalee - Palmyrah Toddy and Food Experience

Accommodation

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon or similar

With no planned activities, take the day to relax and soak up the beach atmosphere in Trincomalee. If you're feeling adventurous, join a snorkeling trip to Pigeon Island, home to vibrant marine life and crystal-clear waters

Included Meals

• Breakfast 

Accommodation

Trinco Blu by Cinnamon or similar

Today, travel north to the coastal Tamil town of Jaffna, once inaccessible for years due to the civil war. Explore the Jaffna Peninsula, taking in the views from Point Pedro, Sri Lanka’s northernmost point. You’ll also stop to see the healing waters of Keerimalai Spring, the ancient dagobas of Kantarodai, and Nilawari—a bottomless well said to have been created when the Hindu god Rama shot an arrow to obtain water.

This evening, visit a local home to learn how to cook traditional Jaffna cuisine, then enjoy the fruits of your labor for dinner.

Included Meals

• Breakfast & Dinner

Included Activities

• Jaffna Peninsula Tour

• Jaffna - Cooking Class & Family Visit

Accommodation

Thinnai Hotel Jaffna or similar

Enjoy some free time in the morning before embarking on a five-hour drive to Wilpattu National Park. Our camp for the evening is situated near the park's southern boundary, next to a lake and surrounded by bush forest, creating the feel of living right inside the park. Wildlife from Wilpattu National Park frequently wanders into the campsite, offering a unique opportunity to observe animals up close. 

Settle into your room and relax before your included dinner.

Meals Included

• Breakfast & Dinner

Accommodation

Big Game Wilpattu or similar

Head out for a morning safari in Wilpattu, the largest national park on the island and one of its most remote, making it less visited. The park is a popular destination for spotting the majestic Sri Lankan leopard. Cruise around in your 4WD and keep an eye out for deer, elephants, wild boar, sloth bears, and leopards as you take in the park’s stunning landscapes. After the safari, depart for Anawilundawa Bird Sanctuary.

Anawilundawa is unique because it borders three vastly different ecosystems – the coast, the mangroves and the freshwater tanks. This makes it one of the six RAMSAR Wetlands in Sri Lanka and a favourable nesting and breeding ground for hundreds of species of birds. Some of the species found here include herons, open-

bills, great cormorants, white ibis, egrets, stalks, pheasant-tailed jacnas and the purple swamp hen. A total of 20 species of mammals have been recorded here, too, including the rusty-spotted cat, the fishing cat, the Indian otter, the slender loris, the toque monkey and 74 species of butterflies.

Continue the drive to Negombo, check in to your hotel and relax! This evening enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, reminiscing about the incredible experiences of your journey.

Included Activities

• Wilpattu National Park – Morning Safari

• Farewell Dinner at a Local Restaurant

Accommodation

Corundum Breeze Negombo or similar 

Your trip comes to an end after breakfast this morning. Departure flights can be booked for any time as there are no activities planned for today. 

Please note that Negombo is close to the Colombo airport. You'll want to fly in and out of the Colombo airport for this trip.

For those joining us in Maldives, there is one day between this trip and the Maldives trip. It is substantially less to stay here the additional night then to journey on to Male.

Standard check-out: 12:00 Hrs 

Meals included

• Breakfast  

Departure Transfer 

• Not Included but available at check out

If you are staying late or arriving early you can add extra nights at check out here or you might find it cheaper to book yourself via hotels.com. I am an affiliate with them and when you use my link I earn a small commission at no cost to you. 

Looking for something to do today? Check out these platforms for tons of activities and tours:  Viator  & Getyourguide