A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer from Colombo to Kandy. The approximate travel time is four hours.

Take a break from the bustling city life, slip on your walking shoes and take a stroll though the verdant Sri Lankan countryside to discover the true essence of Kandy. Meet your private guide and take a short drive away from the city center before arriving in the village of Pilimathalawa.

Here, embark on a fascinating walk that connects the legendary temples of Galdaladeniya and Lankthilake, gracefully hidden away in the lush hills surrounding Kandy.

Start off by exploring the Galadaladeniya Temple, marvel at the intricate wood carvings and listen to your guide unveil this site’s proud Buddhist heritage dating back to the era of the ancient kingdoms. Next, set on the beautiful village trail taking you towards the Lankathilake Temple.

On your way, experience the warm Sri Lankan hospitality as you stop by a local home for a drink of king coconut to quench your thirst. Walk along the ubiquitous rice paddies, watch the friendly residents work in their fields, and look out for their eager waves and smiling faces.

Make stops along the way and let your knowledgeable guide introduce you to the various types of local vegetation. As you arrive at the Lankthilake Temple, take in its impressive whitewashed exterior and sweeping roofs, and admire the views of the surrounding mountains.

Continue with a visit to a local master craftsman, a descendant of a long line of professional optometrists bound to the service of the kings as far back as the XIV century. Watch as he demonstrates how he and his ancestors have been using rough minerals to create lenses throughout the years. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your hotel.

Kandy belongs to the fabric of legends. While Sri Lanka was under the Portuguese and Dutch rule, the Kings of Kandy remained defiant and independent. It was much later during the British rule that Kandy finally fell to the biggest empire in the world.

Accompanied by your private chauffeur guide, venture off into the streets of Kandy, experiencing its rich culture and exploring the vibrant local markets. Today Kandy has grown to a sizeable city that still retains touches of its colonial history in buildings such as the Queen's hotel, a beautiful 19th century neoclassical beauty.

Wander around the Kandy Lake and the town’s characterful neighborhoods and get a feel for this wonderful place. Continue to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic which is, without a doubt, the city’s biggest pride and one of the world’s holiest Buddhist shrines. Head inside this religious complex and feel in awe of its spiritual magnetism. Upon the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred to your hotel.

Bottle Of ArrackBottle Of Arrackelephant stables hotelTemple of the Sacred Tooth RelicTemple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

See the Signature Sights in Style

Kandy belongs to the fabric of legends. While Sri Lanka was under the Portuguese and Dutch rule, the Kings of Kandy remained defiant and independent. It was much later during the British rule that Kandy finally fell to the biggest empire in the world. Accompanied by your private chauffeur guide, venture off into the streets of Kandy, experiencing its rich culture and exploring the vibrant local markets. Today Kandy has grown to a sizeable city that still retains touches of its colonial history in buildings such as the Queen's hotel, a beautiful 19th century neoclassical beauty. Wander around the Kandy Lake and the town’s characterful neighborhoods and get a feel for this wonderful place. Continue to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic which is, without a doubt, the city’s biggest pride and one of the world’s holiest Buddhist shrines. Head inside this religious complex and feel in awe of its spiritual magnetism. Upon the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred to your hotel.

Cinnamon, Cloves, Nutmeg, Cardamom, Pepper and Turmeric; these names not only make one think of delicious food but also relate to the age of discovery and to the 500 turbulent years in the history of Ceylon under the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule.

Today’s trip to the authentic local markets will provide you with a genuine and rewarding Sri Lankan experience. The spice selection is top notch, and with the help of your guide you can pay a fair price. For the adventurers and lovers of local food, make a stop inside the market at the Midlands Café, a noted classic renowned for its loafs of bread served alongside delicious curries and accompanied by a strong cup Ceylon tea.

Before leaving the market be sure to browse the wide array of exotic fruits; a local favorite is the wood apple with its fermented smell, mixed with tamarind. Also look for jack fruit, rambutan, mangosteen and many more, including impressive, fresh picked bananas. Your tour concludes with a private transfer back to your accommodation.

Today you will embark on a scenic train journey through Sri Lanka's hill country. Your English-Speaking chauffeur guide will transfer you to the train station and assist you with boarding the train to Ella. Upon your arrival in Ella, the same chauffeur guide will be waiting for you to take you to your hotel.

Total journey time is approximately 6 hours. It’s a spectacular scenic experience. The train passes along the mountain edges, with wonderful views of the lush valleys down below and tea factories clinging to the hillsides.

Not surprisingly, this particular stretch of the train’s journey is considered one of the most beautiful in the world.

Please note that your chauffeur guide will not be traveling with you on the train. They will however, pick you up at Ella station.

Today, with your English-speaking chauffeur guide, you will head high up to the highlands of Sri Lanka to see the charming town of Ella. Here the air is cooler, the vegetation is lush, and fruit grow aplenty in the pleasant hill climate.

This is one of Sri Lanka's prime hiking destinations. If you are looking for a leisurely hike, head to the Little Adams Peak. The hike itself takes approximately 1 hour and the views of the valley and surrounding hills are truly breathtaking. If you are looking for a more challenging trek, head towards the Ella Rock.

The walk will take you along the railroad tracks and toward a swinging metal bridge - those with vertigo don't look down! The hike continues past a eucalyptus forest. Here the climb can be a bit steep, and you will need to be in good physical shape to attempt it.

The walk will take you along the railroad tracks and toward a swinging metal bridge - those with vertigo don't look down! The hike continues past a eucalyptus forest. Here the climb can be a bit steep, and you will need to be in good physical shape to attempt it. Local farmers will guide you all the way (the farmers are not professional guides and speak little English). Once you reach the summit, enjoy spectacular views of the surrounding peaks and verdant valleys. The hike takes approximately 3-4 hours depending on your pace.

A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer from Ella to Yala National Park. The approximate travel time is three hours.

This afternoon, embark on a jungle safari with an experienced wildlife guide at the Yala National Park. Your wildlife guide will introduce you to the flora and fauna of the untamed Sri Lankan jungle.

NOTE: PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.

Set out on an early morning drive with an experienced wildlife guide at the Yala National Park, hoping for animal sightings. This is the best time to capture some amazing photographs with the available natural light.

Keep your camera ready!

NOTE: PROGRAMS ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT PRIOR NOTICE.

Today, join a jungle walk led by the experienced wildlife guides at the Kulu Yala camp, and set out to explore the riches of the Yala National Park. The trail provides a rare opportunity to learn interesting tips on the art of tracking, animal behavior, and offers a unique perspective for birding as well as photography.

Key wildlife attractions include leopard, sloth bear, Asian elephant, spotted deer, sambar deer, and an array of birdlife.

Kayaks are also provided at your camp, so that you can get out on the water for a couple of hours of exercise and experience a different perspective of the nature at Yala.

A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer from Yala National Park to the International Airport in Colombo. The approximate travel time is six hours and 30 minutes.

Colombo reveals its true colors to those willing to get past the city’s modern façade and ready to dive in and explore its characterful neighborhoods echoing Sri Lanka’s colonial past. Today, let a local-born expert guide take you on an adventure that will unveil the true face of Colombo and allow you to experience its spirit, away from the fancy shops where the real life goes on.

Start with a visit to the Slave Island, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Accompanied by your private guide, explore its vibrant alleyways and see the locals go about their daily business – no frills or scripts, just genuine Sri Lankan life as it is.

Continue to the Galle Face Green, one of the city’s favorite hangouts on the shores of the Laccadive Sea. Head to a local street food joint for a taste of delicious Kottu Rotti - a not to be missed, everyday Sri Lankan meal best enjoyed on the street. Ask your guide to let you chop your own Kottu, or simply dig in!

With a little bit of luck, you might also be able to witness a Pooja ceremony at a local Hindu temple. Upon the conclusion of your tour you will be privately transferred back to your hotel.

From an uncertain origin that has been lost in time to the present, the history of arrack is closely knit with that of Sri Lanka. This gentle liquor comes from the coconut tree flower’s sap and it has been drunk for ages, from Marco Polo himself to Magellan's crew. Today, join a local insider guide and learn the secrets of this aromatic spirit as you embark on a journey behind the scenes in Colombo.

Bring an open mind and let your guide pick the best spots in the city to try this storied beverage, from the city’s finest bars to neighborhood joints frequented by local laborers. This evening’s adventure truly is a one-of-a-kind introduction to Sri Lanka’s capital. After your tour ends, a private transfer back to your hotel will be provided.

A private vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide will provide a transfer between the airport and your hotel in Colombo.

Fly from Colombo to Malé. The flight duration is approximately one hour and thirty minutes. Flights are subject to change based on availability and are a separate purchase.

For your added comfort, a representative will greet you upon your arrival at the airport. They'll be waiting for you outside of customs, holding a personalized sign with your name on it. Your assistant will provide a welcome package, escort you to your accommodation’s private lounge or pier (depending on the selected resort) and will assist with baggage and any queries you may have.

Transfer by seaplane from Malé International Airport to a local airport in the beautiful South Ari Atoll where your resort is located. The journey is approximately 30 min.

During your stay at the LUX* South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas, you can enjoy a plethora of extra activities, tours, and experiences (additional fees may apply, speak to your Destination Expert for more details),

Some highlights include;

Fishing - Try your luck at catching tuna in the deep waters, or turn your hand to sunset fishing for a unique experience and cook your haul at the end of the day.

Catamaran Excursions – Relax in style on an Exclusive Sunset Cruise or head out on a Dolphin Spotting Sunset Cruise.

Water Activities & Sports – Delve into the Indian Ocean and send your adrenaline racing. Expert instructors offer a wide range of motorized and non-motorized watersports that suit any taste for adventure:

Flyboarding-Hoverboarding

Flyboarding-Hoverboarding, Wakeboarding and water skiing, Paddle boarding, Wind surfing, Kitesurfing & Jest skiing.

Diving courses and excursions – discover an abundance of fish, coral, turtles, rays and sharks

Snorkeling – spot turtles, whale sharks, or manta rays

Spend some time at leisure at the LUX South Ari Atoll Resort & Villas. Relax in your private villa or soak up the glorious sun at the soft white sand beach and admire the tropical scenery. Ideal for families and couples alike, this resort offers a vast variety of activities for the little ones at its center PLAY and Studio 17 to keep them occupied while you get in some much needed relaxation and rejuvenation at the LUX Me spa.

With unique treatments like Zhengliao Chinese Medicine Treatment and a Balinese massage, you can savor your exclusive beach holiday. Get active with a complimentary Body Balance Analysis and a tailored program at the fitness center or find your balance with over water yoga and meditation sessions.