Coast, Culture & Maldives Twin Escape
Coast, Culture & Maldives Twin Escape
Duration: 12N 13D
Discover the perfect blend of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, pristine eastern beaches, and the luxury of a Maldivian island escape. This itinerary combines sacred cities, coastal relaxation, adventure sports, and tropical indulgence, providing a diverse and immersive experience. Each day is thoughtfully curated to balance exploration, leisure, and memorable encounters with local life.
Day 01: Arrival in Colombo / Transfer to Negombo / Overnight in Negombo
Arrive at Bandaranaike International Airport in Colombo and meet your private driver for a short transfer to Negombo, approximately 20–30 minutes. Spend the afternoon unwinding on Negombo’s golden beaches or exploring the lagoon and local fish markets. Evening at leisure allows for relaxation and acclimatization to the tropical climate. Overnight stay is arranged in Negombo at a comfortable beachfront or lagoon-side hotel.
Day 02: Drive to Anuradhapura / Explore Sacred City / Overnight in Anuradhapura
After breakfast, drive approximately four hours to Anuradhapura, the ancient sacred city and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore key highlights including Sri Maha Bodhi, Ruwanwelisaya, and Thuparamaya, learning about the city’s historical and spiritual significance. Walk among the stupas, temples, and ancient ruins while absorbing centuries of culture and devotion. Overnight stay is arranged in Anuradhapura for convenient access to the sacred sites.
Day 03: Mihintale Visit / Evening at Leisure / Overnight in Anuradhapura
Start the day with a visit to Mihintale, the birthplace of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, climbing its sacred stairway to see the temples, stupas, and breathtaking views of the surrounding plains. Learn about the legend of Mahinda Thera and the origins of Sri Lankan Buddhist traditions. Return to Anuradhapura in the afternoon and enjoy an evening at leisure for rest, exploration, or optional local market visits. Overnight stay remains in Anuradhapura.
Day 04: Drive to Trincomalee / Relax at Nilaveli Beach / Overnight in Trincomalee
Depart for Trincomalee on Sri Lanka’s northeast coast, a drive of approximately four to five hours through scenic rural landscapes. Arrive at Nilaveli Beach and spend the afternoon relaxing on pristine sands or swimming in the turquoise waters. Evening at leisure allows for dining with a view of the bay or exploring nearby coastal streets. Overnight stay is arranged in Trincomalee, close to the beach for convenience.
Day 05: Koneshwaram Temple Visit / Snorkeling at Pigeon Island / Overnight in Trincomalee
Visit the iconic Koneshwaram Temple, perched on Swami Rock, and learn about its historical, religious, and architectural significance. Later, take a boat trip to Pigeon Island National Park for snorkeling among vibrant coral reefs, tropical fish, and marine life. Evening at leisure allows for relaxation at the resort or a sunset stroll along the coastline. Overnight stay remains in Trincomalee.
Day 06: Leisure Day on East Coast / Overnight in Trincomalee
Spend the day at leisure enjoying Trincomalee’s calm beaches, optional water sports, or a local cultural visit to nearby villages. This is an opportunity to relax, swim, or simply enjoy the tranquil coastal surroundings. Evening at leisure allows for dining or a quiet walk along the beach. Overnight stay remains in Trincomalee.
Day 07: Drive to Passikudah / Relaxation by the Lagoon / Overnight in Passikudah
After breakfast, drive approximately three hours south to Passikudah, known for its shallow lagoons and calm waters. Spend the afternoon relaxing by the lagoon, swimming, or enjoying water-based activities in a serene setting. Evening at leisure provides an opportunity to dine at beachfront restaurants or enjoy resort facilities. Overnight stay is arranged in Passikudah.
Day 08: Beach Leisure or Water Sports / Overnight in Passikudah
Enjoy a full day at leisure along Passikudah Beach, with options for kayaking, paddleboarding, snorkeling, or sailing in the clear lagoon waters. Relax under the sun or explore the surrounding area on foot, capturing photographs of the scenic coastline. Evening at leisure allows for quiet reflection and sunset views. Overnight stay remains in Passikudah.
Day 09: Drive to Colombo / Overnight in Colombo
Depart Passikudah for a drive of approximately six to seven hours back to Colombo, passing scenic towns, rural landscapes, and paddy fields. Upon arrival, enjoy leisure time at your hotel or explore nearby shopping and dining options. Evening at leisure allows for rest and preparation for city exploration the next day. Overnight stay is arranged in Colombo.
Day 10: Colombo City Tour / Overnight in Colombo
Embark on a guided city tour of Colombo, visiting Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market, Galle Face Green, and colonial-era landmarks. Learn about the city’s history, culture, and contemporary lifestyle while exploring its vibrant streets. Evening at leisure provides opportunities for shopping or dining at one of Colombo’s popular restaurants. Overnight stay remains in Colombo.
Day 11: Flight to Maldives / Check into Island Resort / Overnight in Maldives
After breakfast, transfer to Colombo Domestic Airport for a short flight to the Maldives. Arrive at your private island resort and check in, with the rest of the day dedicated to exploring the resort, swimming, or relaxing on the pristine beaches. Evening at leisure allows for sunset viewing or enjoying resort amenities. Overnight stay is arranged in the Maldives.
Day 12: Maldives Leisure (Snorkeling, Spa, Relaxation) / Overnight in Maldives
Spend the day indulging in the beauty and tranquility of your Maldivian island resort. Optional activities include snorkeling in coral reefs, diving, spa treatments, or kayaking along turquoise waters. Evening at leisure allows for dining under the stars or a quiet walk along the beach. Overnight stay remains in the Maldives.
Day 13: Departure from Maldives
After breakfast, check out from the resort and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. Reflect on a journey that combined Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage, eastern coastal beauty, and the tropical luxury of the Maldives. The tour concludes with memories of beaches, ancient cities, and immersive experiences.
Inclusions
- Accommodation for 12 nights with daily breakfast as specified in the itinerary
- Private air-conditioned transport with driver throughout Sri Lanka
- Domestic flight from Colombo to the Maldives
- Guided visits and entrance fees to all included cultural and heritage sites: Anuradhapura, Mihintale, Koneshwaram Temple, Pigeon Island snorkeling, Colombo city landmarks
- Snorkeling excursion at Pigeon Island National Park
- Village immersion experiences in Trincomalee and Passikudah (if mentioned)
- Whale watching, diving, or water sport options in Maldives (if arranged through resort)
- All airport transfers within Sri Lanka and the Maldives
Exclusions
- Meals not specified in the itinerary
- Personal expenses such as shopping, tips, laundry, or phone calls
- Optional activities not explicitly included (e.g., spa treatments, extra water sports, diving excursions beyond Pigeon Island)
- Travel insurance, visa fees, and international flights (except Colombo–Maldives domestic flight included)
- Any services or excursions not mentioned under inclusions