19 Day Grand Sri Lanka
This tour is categorised as 4 out of 5
Packed itinerary with maximum exploration: Embark on a whirlwind sightseeing tour with minimal downtime. This tour maximises your exploration, keeping you on the move and ticking off must-see locations. A good fitness level and mobility are required to keep pace with this action-packed adventure!
As a general requirement across all of our trips, you may be required to walk up and down stairs, get on and off transportation, handle your own luggage, and participate in all scheduled sightseeing that may be conducted on uneven ground and terrain. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability and where required, supporting documentation may be requested to ensure that we are comfortable that you will enjoy your trip.
Accommodation in this trip is at comfortable properties featuring modern facilities and amenities.
Hotel stars are based on local ratings provided and the expected standard may differ depending on the destination. Hotels listed within the itinerary are indicative of the typical hotel we intend to use for that package but is subject to change.
This tour is fully escorted by a dedicated tour leader who will accompany you throughout the tour. If your tour includes multiple countries, you will be met by a new tour leader in each country and any internal flights included will be unescorted.
Experience a superior level of comfort. Our Small Group tours have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. Travel with no more than 26 people, allowing for a more personalised and immersive experience. Please see the Important Information on your selected tour for the exact group size.
✓ Small group - 16 people max
✓ Return international airfares with a full-service airline
✓ Return airport transfers
✓ 17 nights in unique deluxe accommodation
✓ Including 2 nights in the northern coastal city of Jaffna
✓ Explore the spectacular white sandy beaches in Trincomalee
✓ Ride the iconic train from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya
✓ Daily breakfast, 4 lunches and 8 dinners
✓ Escorted English speaking guide throughout
✓ Incredible sightseeing as per the itinerary
✓ Dedicated private transportation throughout
✓ 24/7 customer service and your own Dedicated Support Agent
Travel with the experts for a carefully curated, value-packed discovery of the world's most iconic destinations. Our tours are bursting with must-see sights, rich experiences and quality inclusions, all at an unbeatable price. Bucket list dreams are ticked off on these all-encompassing journeys.
Welcome to Sri Lanka! Today begins your incredible tour through what has been called the must-visit destination of the year. Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport you’ll be greeted by one of our representatives and transferred to your nearby hotel in Negombo.
Negombo is a city on the west coast of Sri Lanka, north of the capital, Colombo. Near the waterfront, the remains of the 17th-century Dutch Fort now house a prison. Negombo Lagoon, lined with fishermen’s huts, feeds into the Dutch-era Hamilton Canal. The canal leads south to Colombo. Neoclassical St. Mary’s Church, completed in the 1920s, features a ceiling decorated with vivid religious paintings.
Please note - most flights arrive into Colombo after midnight. To maximise suitable rest time before the tour starts on Day 2, we suggest departing the day before Day 1.
Check-in: Passengers will be arriving at various times throughout the day from as early as 6am through to late evening. If arriving prior to standard check-in time, which is generally 3pm local time, you are welcome to leave your luggage with hotel reception and explore your surroundings until check-in becomes available, as there are generally no scheduled activities on Day 1 of the itinerary.
Early this morning you may choose to visit the famous local fish market, before breakfast. After breakfast, our group will transfer to Chilaw. Chilaw is a large town in Puttalam District, North Western Province, Sri Lanka. En route we enjoy an Inspiring Taste; a visit to the 'toddy' tapping areas while tasting some locally made 'toddy'. Toddy is a native alcoholic drink of the fermented sap of the coconut flower, a traditional toddy tapper climbs a coconut tree to obtain the sap and then moves skillfully along ropes from tree to tree.
Upon arrival in Chilaw, the rest of the day is free to relax on the beach or by the pool.
Today we will be departing Chilaw and transferring to the city of Anuradhapura. En route we will be visiting Wilpattu National Park to enjoy an exciting afternoon safari. This park is located in the Northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka. There are approximately 25-30 species of mammals in the Wilpattu National Park, including the Sri Lankan elephant, Sri Lankan leopard, Sri Lankan sloth bear, spotted deer, buffalo, sambar and mongoose. The Park is also home to many indigenous flora and fauna. Another unique feature of the park are its “Willus” (natural lakes) - natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater.
Later this evening following our safari, we will continue on towards Anuradhapura where we will check in to the hotel and be spending the rest of the night at leisure.
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and is known for its well-preserved ruins. The highlight of today will be a visit to the magnificent Anuradhapura ruins, where we will take a guided bicycle tour. Among the ruins you’ll see the sacred old Bo Tree, a spiritual reminder of the beginnings of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and the inspiration for Anuradhapura’s great buildings. The ruins themselves are spread over quite a large area, some in woodland settings and others appearing park-like with columns and ponds dotted about.
Following our tour here, the rest of the day will be at leisure.
This morning after breakfast we will transfer to the Tamil dominated city of Jaffna. This northern, coastal city was inaccessible for years due to the civil war. Upon arrival we will explore the city and its surroundings with our tour guide. We’ll journey around the Jaffna Peninsula visiting the intriguing ruined dagobas (shrines) of Kantarodai. These two dozen or so dagobas stand 1-2m in height and lie in a palm-fringed field, providing a rather otherworldly vista. We will also visit Nilavarai, a natural underground water well, seemingly bottomless where it’s said the Hindu God, Rama, shot an arrow to get water.
The rest of the day may be spent at leisure. For those wishing to explore Jaffna further, we recommend visiting Nainativu Island. This island is one of the holiest sites in Sri Lanka for both Buddhists and Hindus. One of the popular things for locals to do is to make the pilgrimage to Nainativu Island. Please speak to your guide locally for details.
This morning you will have some free time to spend at your leisure. In the afternoon we will begin our half-day Jaffna city tour with our guide. We’ll experience daily life here as we explore this emerging city. First we’ll visit Naga Pooshani Amman Kovil, a colourful ancient Hindu temple complex set amid mature neem trees. The main temple deity is the naga goddess Meenakshi, a consort of Shiva. Women wishing to conceive come here seeking blessings, delivered during the trance-inducing midday puja. Next we’ll tour the beautiful Jaffna Public Library which was lovingly restored after being destroyed during the civil war. We will also see the Hindu Temple of Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, one of the most important temples in Jaffna.
In the evening we will have the chance to enjoy another Inspiring Taste; trying the famous Jaffna crab curry!
This morning after breakfast we will begin our drive to Trincomalee, a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival we will explore this coastal gem with our guide on a city tour. In addition to the city tour, you may wish to visit the Trinco British War Cemetery or Trinco Harbour. Please speak to your guide locally for details. This evening may be spent relaxing on the beach.
Today is a full free day to spend at leisure relaxing on the beach or at your resort. Alternatively, you will have the opportunity to participate in one of our bonus Inspiring Sights in order to enhance your experience.
Get up close and personal with the largest animal on Earth!
Includes: Guided boat tour, warm overalls.
Duration: 3h.
This morning after breakfast we will be transferring to Sigiriya. En route, you may wish to participate in another one of our bonus Inspiring Sights - a visit to Minneriya National Park.
Upon arrival at our resort, the evening is yours to spend at leisure. You may wish to visit the largest fruit and vegetable wholesale market in Sri Lanka, the Dambulla Wholesale Market, or do an evening Sigiriya Cycle Tour, to experience the authentic rural life and interact with locals. Please speak to your guide locally for details. Both of these are included Inspiring Sights.
You may choose to include 2 optional Inspiring Sights throughout your tour, free as part of your package. On this safari you will be able to witness large numbers of Sri Lankan elephants who are attracted to grass fields on the edges of the reservoir during the dry season. The elephant gathering will be a very unique experience.
The magnificent palace of Sigiriya (Lion Rock) is one of the highlights of any visit to Sri Lanka and one of the most valuable historical monuments in the country. We’ll rise early this morning to avoid the heat of the day and visit this dramatic rocky outcrop, rising from the surrounding plains. Lion Rock is topped by a magnificent ruined palace. It’s a good workout to climb to the top, but well worth the effort. Following our tour here, we will continue on to the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Ancient city of Polonnaruwa is the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, and today the city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country. It truly is a standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the kingdom’s first rulers. Here we will explore with our guide and enjoy a visit to the archaeological museum.
Special Information
The visit to Lion Rock takes around 3.5 hrs. We’ll start in the morning, reaching the Lion’s Paw in around an hour and a half. On the way we’ll visit the water garden, the boulder garden, Sigiriya Frescos and the mirror wall. After the Lion Paw its a steep climb with plenty of steps and walkways along the side of the rock. This part of the climb takes around 30 minutes. Those not wanting to go to the top can rest in the shade at the Lion’s Paw until the rest of the group returns.
This morning after breakfast we will be transferring to the large central city of Kandy. En-route we’ll be stopping to visit the fascinating Dambulla Cave Temple where we will explore the magnificent cave complex. This World Heritage-listed monastery has been a pilgrimage site for 22 centuries for good reason. Also known as the Golden Temple of Dambulla, this is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Following our tour here we will continue on to Kandy, where upon arrival you will have some free time to freshen up before heading out to experience a famous Kandy cultural show and dinner at a local restaurant, another Inspiring Taste.
Today we will enjoy a guided city tour of Kandy, the second largest city in the country and capital of the central hill regions. We’ll begin by visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic (Dalada Maligawa) in the morning. Located in the heart of town, this is the most important shrine in Sri Lanka, housing a relic of a tooth of Buddha, supposedly taken from his funeral pyre. Next we’ll visit a local market where you can get a taste for the delicious local fruit. Here we’ll witness and taste a large variety of endemic fruits while chatting with shopkeepers and shoppers alike. Later in the day you may wish to participate in another one of our bonus Inspiring Sights.
You’ll have the choice between 2 of 4 bonus sightseeing experiences to enhance your journey. You may choose to include 2 optional Inspiring Sights throughout your tour, free as part of your package. The Peradeniya Botanical Gardens are just west of the city and attract 2 million visitors annually. Located near the Mahaweli River, it is renowned for its stunning collection of orchids.
Try your hand at making and tasting some delicious local Kandy cuisine.
Today we say farewell to Kandy and hop onto Sri Lanka’s most famous train. This iconic train journey weaves through lush valleys, rugged mountain peaks and tea plantations, showcasing some of the countries most spectacular scenery. Throughout the trip, passengers are free to roam the cabins and chat to fellow travellers, all the while taking in the rich vistas that follow the train through central Sri Lanka. Settle into your seat and watch as natural sights like waterfalls and rivers whiz by, begging to be photographed. There are small villages dotted along the route and regular stops at these towns allow food hawkers to board and sell their local treats. Nuwara Eliya, our final destination, is a gorgeous town perched on a mountain ridge overlooking lush green countryside, offering many photo opportunities. Here you will experience your 2 night Inspiring Stay at the incredible Grand Hotel.
Please note: Dress code applies for dinner at all restaurants and bars - All guests are requested to in be smart casual wear. Guests in short trousers and sleeveless Shirts and rubber slippers will not be permitted to enter the restaurants.
The town of Nuwara Eliya is well deserving of its nickname, 'Little England'. Discovered by British explorer John Davy and officially founded by Samuel Baker in the 19th century, Nuwara Eliya became a haven for expats seeking a taste of Blighty in sweltering Sri Lanka. Today we will be visiting a lovely local tea factory. Here we will experience tea culture in Sri Lanka as we participate in a tea tour (another Inspiring Taste), learning about and tasting the most famous Ceylon Tea. In the evening we will enjoy another Inspiring Taste, a High Tea on the manicured lawn of the Grand Hotel, a notable and distinguished experience.
Today we will be heading to Yala where we will enjoy an exciting afternoon guided jeep safari at Yala National Park, one of the largest parks in Sri Lanka. Encompassing a variety of diverse ecosystems, Yala National Park is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean. It’s home to wildlife such as leopards, elephants and crocodiles, as well as hundreds of bird species. On our guided game drive we will explore the dynamic wildlife and some of the most luxuriant plant life in Sri Lanka. Following our safari we will check into our hotel where we will spend the evening at leisure.
PLEASE NOTE
Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park.
Although smaller in size to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park is considered one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, Udawalawe is also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting and being far less crowded than Yala, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for travellers and therefore, we believe is a more than suitable alternative.
Affected departure dates:
15th SEP 2020
29th SEP 2020
Early this morning we will head out on another safari in Yala National Park by jeep to spot the diverse wildlife which calls the park home. We’ll search for the leopards that lounge in trees or stalk through the brush, crocodiles that patrol the river or wild elephants that graze across the savanna. Keep your eyes out for anything you missed yesterday! This afternoon you may spend at leisure or you may choose to opt in for another optional Inspiring Sight, and head out on another safari in the afternoon.
Set out once again on a thrilling jeep safari through one of Sri Lanka’s most visited National Parks. Your experienced guide has an eye for spotting the elusive animals that live within the park and will point you towards some incredible sights.
This morning we will transfer to the last destination on our magnificent journey, the perfectly preserved colonial township of Galle with its blend of European architecture and South Asian traditions. Galle sits on the southwest coast of Sri Lanka. After checking into our hotel we’ll set out for a walk around the iconic Galle Fort in the late afternoon. Our guide will take us on a tour of the Royal Dutch Fort, exploring the winding passageways, maze of gallery-filled narrow streets and 400 years of rich history. The fort was built first in 1588 by the Portuguese, then extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century. After our tour, the rest of your final evening in Sri Lanka is yours to do as you wish.
Unfortunately today is our last day in this incredible country. Our group will transfer to the Lavinia Beach Hotel in Negombo, where you may use the facilities to freshen up and rest before your flight home. There will be time before your departure this evening to do a guided sightseeing city tour with your experienced local guide who will take you to all of the highlights of Negombo.
At the appropriate time, you will be transferred to the airport to board your flight.
Check out: Passengers will be departing at various times throughout the day. Standard hotel check-out times will apply no matter what time your flight is scheduled to depart. Check-out time is generally anywhere from 10am-12pm. You are welcome to leave your luggage at hotel reception and spend your final moments of free time exploring the area or alternatively please speak with hotel staff if you would like to extend your check-out time. Please note this service is subject to availability and will likely come at an additional cost. Your tour guide (or hotel staff) will confirm the time of your airport transfer with you directly.
Arrive home today.
Inspiring Stays
Inspiring Sights
To enhance your journey, we're offering guests 2 bonus sightseeing experiences out of a choice of 4 options (details listed under 'Optional Tours').
Inspiring Tastes
Deposit & Payments
Booking Process
Airfare Information
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount A reduction of $900 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers will not be included. Should you wish to book airport transfers to match your own flights, the cost is $50 per vehicle, per direction.
Extending Your Stay Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. You will be asked for LKR7000 per person. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. Tipping towards the kitty is compulsory. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend LKR1200 per person per day for your guide and LKR600 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is $1,419 on top of the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Available. If you wish to purchase triple-share please phone 1300 886 688. The third person will also be charged the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of return.
You must arrange a Visa before your arrival into Sri Lanka. The best way to apply for your Visa is The Department of Immigration and Emigration called "Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA" in order to grant prior approval for a visa online for foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka. You can visit http://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ to apply for your visa online.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
2-16 people.
Trip Style - Small Group Tour
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. You will travel with only a maximum of 20 other guests. Enjoy choice features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Train Journey Information
Please note that it is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation as the Sri Lanka Railway Department has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The first and second class carriages are basic but have air conditioning. The third class carriages are not air-conditioned, but on occasion this is the only option available. In the rare event that the train is fully booked we’ll conduct the journey by road.
Yala National Park Closure - September to October
Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park.
Although smaller in size to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park is considered one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, Udawalawe is also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting and being far less crowded than Yala, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for travellers and therefore, we believe is a more than suitable alternative.
Fitness Requirements
While the tour itinerary should give you some guidance and overview to the expected requirements, to determine if this tour is right for you we categorise each of our tours in terms of their intensity. These guidelines are to ensure that each tour group is conducted as expected and to ensure the overall satisfaction of all Inspiring Vacations customers.
As a general rule, porterage is not included, therefore at all times you are expected to handle your own luggage where help may not be available.
This particular tour is categorised as a “3”:
3 – Moderate Tour: A good level of fitness and mobility is required, as this tour includes a moderate level of physical activity and is considered a medium-fast paced tour. You should be able to walk up and down stairs, get on and off the coach and able to walk reasonable distances of approximately 2 kilometres per day or more with ease. Any physical ailments you may have must be disclosed at the time of booking to determine your suitability. If you have any form of walking aids, other than a walking stick or hiking poles, then this tour is not suitable.
Tipping
A friendly reminder that tipping is not included in your package. At the commencement of your tour you will be asked to provide tipping to your guide towards a ‘kitty’, which is then used towards the guide tipping for the services of helpers, hotel staff, restaurants and airport porterage. You will be asked for LKR7000 per person. Please note that this tipping is not for the guide or driver, merely for the guide to tip the services of other local workers during your tour. Tipping towards the kitty is compulsory. Your cooperation in this instance is most appreciated.
Further, tipping for your guide and driver will be collected at the conclusion of their services. To remove the uncertainty and stress of not knowing how much is appropriate to tip we recommend LKR1200 per person per day for your guide and LKR600 per person per day for your driver to be paid in local currency. The amount you wish to contribute is dependent on the services received and at the complete discretion of the guest. Thank you for your understanding.
Accommodation
The accommodation listed is subject to change. Any changes will be of an equal or higher standard. Bedding configurations (double or twin) are requests only. All efforts will be made to meet your preferences, however any changes are beyond our control.
Single Supplement
The single supplement is $1,419 on top of the twin-share price.
Triple Share
Available. If you wish to purchase triple-share please phone 1300 886 688. The third person will also be charged the twin-share price.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is required to protect yourself against the unexpected.
We have partnered with nib to offer our customers competitive rates for their travel insurance. You can book comprehensive or budget cover simply by clicking HERE to arrange your policy.
Visa & Passport information
It is the traveller's responsibility to ensure they have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for a minimum of six months from the intended date of your return.
An e-visa is required for entry into Sri Lanka. The Department of Immigration and Emigration launched a system called "Electronic Travel Authorization - ETA" in order to grant prior approval for a visa online for foreign nationals who visit Sri Lanka. You can visit http://eta.gov.lk/slvisa/ to purchase your visa online. The cost is US$35 per person. We can assist you over the phone as best as possible, however cannot submit the application on your behalf.
Please note that these details are subject to change without notice. We recommend visiting https://smartraveller.gov.au for up to date information in terms of entry requirements.
Tour Documentation
Final documentation, including e-tickets and hotel details, will be provided approximately 30 days prior to travel.
Group Size
2-16 people.
Trip Style - Small Group Tour
These tours are our proudest creations. They have been crafted for Inspiring Vacations travellers exclusively, with personal and unique experiences in mind. You will travel with only a maximum of 20 other guests. Enjoy choice features such as hand-picked accommodation, a sampling of the region’s best culinary delights and a range of optional activities to choose from to best suit your travel style.
Children
Children must be 2 years old or over and share a room with parents at all times. Children are charged the same price as adults.
Tour Length
The total length of the tour in days includes time spent inflight and is subject to change, depending on the flight schedule. Please refer to the day-by-day itinerary for the time spent in your destination(s).
Train Journey Information
Please note that it is not possible to confirm the train ticket reservation as the Sri Lanka Railway Department has a manual system for reservations. Tickets can only be booked 30 days prior to departure. The first and second class carriages are basic but have air conditioning. The third class carriages are not air-conditioned, but on occasion this is the only option available. In the rare event that the train is fully booked we’ll conduct the journey by road.
Yala National Park Closure - September to October
Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park.
Although smaller in size to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park is considered one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, Udawalawe is also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting and being far less crowded than Yala, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for travellers and therefore, we believe is a more than suitable alternative.
Airfare Information
Full-service airline used will be Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Sri Lankan Airlines, Malaysia Airlines, Air India, Emirates Airlines or similar.
Flights are not direct and include a maximum of two connections
If you would like to travel with a preferred airline, please ensure you mention this in the special request field. Please note that appropriate fare and tax difference will be applicable in order to confirm your request.
All tickets will include 20 kilos checked baggage per person, along with 7 kilos of hand luggage.
Despite the airlines baggage allowance, we recommend travelling with 20 kilos per person due to restrictions with internal flights (where applicable), as well as coach and train transportation. Also, you will be responsible for handling your luggage at all times as the services of porters is not included. If travelling over this amount, you will be liable for any excess baggage fees enforced by the airline, payable direct.
Once ticketed, flights are non-refundable; any changes will be subject to the airline rules and change fees
Full names as per passport (including all middle names) are required
Any airline schedule changes or cancellations are beyond our control
Any airline 'extras' such as pre-allocated seating are at your own arrangement (additional charges apply)
Premium Economy or Business Class upgrades
Please specify this as a 'Special Request' when completing your booking and you will be quoted for the additional fare. In the event your selection is unavailable, or that you are dissatisfied with the quote, you will be provided with a full refund.
Land Only discount
A reduction of $900 per person applies if you wish to arrange your own airfares. To purchase a land-only fare, please select this option in the booking process under 'Departure City'.
Please note, if you are not arriving or departing as per the group itinerary, airport transfers will not be included. Should you wish to book airport transfers to match your own flights, the cost is $50 per vehicle, per direction.
Extending Your Stay
Some customers like to enhance their holiday by extending their stay pre- and/or post-tour or including a stopover in another destination. If you wish to do so, please follow these steps:
By choosing to extend your stay, please note that a supplement of $150 per person, plus applicable fare and tax differences will apply. We will contact you via email with a quote and proposed flight itinerary, and then proceed with collecting the additional payment required to confirm your request.
Maldives Extension
You may wish to extend your stay to the beautiful Maldives at the end of your journey.
Package includes:
Please note - There are no included activities, however this can booked directly through the resort
Cost - $2,969 per person Twin share ($4,729 single, $2,530 Triple)
Valid through to 31/10/2020
Please click HERE for itinerary. Please click HERE for information on the Adaaran Club Rannalhi Resort
If you wish to book the Maldives Extention package after your tour, please select this under 'Upgrade Options' before completing your booking. You will then be invoiced for this in your final payment.
The $150pp extension supplement does not apply if selecting this option.
To enhance your journey, we're offering 2 free sightseeing experiences of the options listed below. Guests can also purchase the remaining 2 sightseeing experiences (cost is per person):
Optional Tour - The following may also be pre-purchased but is not included as one of your Inspiring Sights:
Whale Watching (Day 8) - $105 per person (from May to October only for the East Coast)
Optional tours can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add Optional Tours, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance. If you choose not to select them at this time, you can choose to add them later by logging in to your Account online or speaking with your Dedicated Support Agent for assistance.
Optional Tour Bundle
As well as choosing 2 optional tours for free, if you're wanting to make the most of your time in Sri Lanka, why not purchase our value-for-money optional tour bundle? These optional tours have been hand-picked by our staff and based on our customers personal favourites:
$75 per person.
Please note that you must select your Optional Tours no later than 65 days before departure, after which you will be required to purchase them on tour. Please keep in mind that anything purchased on-tour is subject to availability and prices may vary as you will be paying in local currency. We appreciate your understanding.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Airport chauffeur
Take the hassle out of getting to the airport with private chauffeur transfers to and from your home airport. Your personal chauffeur will meet and greet you, attend to your luggage and drive you to your destination in a luxury vehicle.
Additional surcharges may apply depending on pick-up time, tolls and government levies.
Airport Chauffeur can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Your transfer may be shared with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Airport lounges
Escape busy airport terminals and relax at a cosy and catered lounge instead. Departure lounge access in Sydney $70 per person (up to 6 hours); Melbourne & Brisbane $55 per person (up to 3 hours).
Airport lounge passes can be selected once you have finalised your tour purchase and paid your deposit. When completing your Passenger Booking Form, you will be asked if you would like to add this service, where any applicable cost will be added to your final balance.
You can enhance your holiday by arriving or departing before or after the tour, adding a stopover package en-route or booking a tour extension. On this tour you can choose from the following options:
Pre and post tour accommodation (deviating from group flights forfeits your group airport transfers)
Arrival and departure airport transfers
Please specify in the 'Special Request' field when making your purchase your preferred travel arrangements and if you would like our team to book additional nights' accommodation and/or airport transfers. The additional cost for these land arrangements will be added to your final payment invoice and are subject to availability.
Please note, the transfers are not private and you may be grouped with other Inspiring Vacations customers.
Refundable deposit within 28 days of purchase:
For cancellations made within 28 days of paying the deposit on any tour, your deposit can be refunded in full or can be transferred to a new booking should you decide to change to another package or destination. Please note this change of mind guarantee does not apply for bookings made within 90 days of departure, after which time our standard 48 hour cooling off period applies. After this time, your booking becomes non-refundable.
All cancellation or change requests must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Refund times will vary and the timeframe of which will be advised at the time of cancellation. Any refund of deposit will be issued back to the original form of payment.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Transferrable second installment up until 90 days before scheduled departure:
Following the second installment payment and up until 90 days before your departure only, should you wish to postpone your travel or transfer to another package, we can provide you with a credit note of the current balance paid on your booking, to be used to rebook within 18 months of the credit being issued.
Any change request must be advised in writing to our Customer Service Team at support@inspiringvacations.
Any bookings made prior to 13 March 2020 must abide by the original payment term conditions.
Please refer to our full Terms and Conditions for more details
Please note that Yala National Park closes for a period between the months of September and October. The exact closure dates are made clear closer to the time. The closure is due to the prevailing dry weather prior to this time and taking into consideration the well-being of the wildlife in the reserve. For departure dates that fall over this period, as defined in the departure dates listed below, Yala National park will be replaced with a visit to Udawalawe National Park, while still being able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park. Please refer to the itinerary.
Although smaller in size to Yala National Park, Udawalawe National Park is considered one of the world's best places to see wild elephants. Largely comprised of grasslands and bush forest, Udawalawe is also one of the best national parks in Sri Lanka for game spotting and being far less crowded than Yala, it makes for a more enjoyable experience for travellers and therefore, we believe is a more than suitable alternative for one safari day. You will still be able to visit Block 4 or 5 of Yala National Park, so you are able to experience both.
Wondering what to expect when you visit the iconic Yala National Park? Click HERE to learn more about Yala
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