A Culture-Rich & Active Adventure to Sri Lanka for Sarah and Family
Trip highlights
- Exclusive Kamatha dining experience
- Adventure by bicycle among ancient capital of Anuradhapura
- Travel by road to spot elephants, monkeys and buffalo
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth in Kandy
- Take a train to the Tea Country
- Try tasty snacks on a Street food tour in Colombo
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The hilltop town of Kandy
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A kamatha dining experience at Uga Ulagalla
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The ancient capital of Anuradhapura
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A dusty herd of buffalo cross into a pond
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Travelling by train through lush green landscapes
Bespoke trips with Jacada
We design one-of-a-kind journeys incorporating luxury in all its forms. Our bespoke trips include:
- Luxury accommodation throughout
- Private transfers
- Private tours and experiences
- Full support from your travel designer and concierge
- Help with restaurant recommendations and reservations
- Days 1–2 Colombo
- Days 2–4 Cultural Triangle
- Days 4–5 Kandy
- Days 5–7 Tea Country
- Days 7–8 Negombo
- Days 8–10 Galle
- Days 10–12 Balapitiya
- Days 1–2 Colombo
- Days 2–4 Cultural Triangle
- Days 4–5 Kandy
- Days 5–7 Tea Country
- Days 7–8 Negombo
- Days 8–10 Galle
- Days 10–12 Balapitiya
Itinerary in detail
Every Jacada trip is tailored to your personal preferences and interests. Below you’ll find a sample itinerary to inspire your own custom-designed journey.
An overnight in Colombo
Start your trip in Colombo, on the western coast of the island and spend a night in the sprawling city, home to over five million people. Colombo has a fascinating history, centred around an ancient fort and once Portuguese trading post, with a modern-day culture and atmosphere that remains intriguing and energetic.
The city is dotted with temples, shrines, cafes, markets and is best explored by tuk tuk. There are some idyllic beaches to be discovered a little way along the coast.
Where Sarah stayed
Colombo
Highlights
- 11 suites
- 180 year old mansion
- Swimming pool
- Private courtyards
Overview
Located close to the lakeside Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, Residence by Uga Escapes is one of the finest boutique hotels in Colombo.
The grand Victorian townhouse was built in the 19th century, its halls and expansive gardens once entertaining British governors, Indian maharajas and European nobility.
Today, its 11 unique luxury suites are a calm and secluded oasis despite its central location. The style is elegant, contemporary and comfortable, with numerous hints of its rich heritage.
This urban retreat also has a wonderful swimming pool, private courtyards, a gourmet restaurant, bar and gym within its walls.
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Two nights exploring the Cultural Triangle
Kandy, Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa were the three great Sinhalese capitals, and together they form an area known as the Cultural Triangle. The heart of Sri Lanka’s ancient civilisation, this historic region is crammed full of temples and monuments and its ruined cities are fascinating places to explore.
Where Sarah stayed
Cultural Triangle
Highlights
- 25 spacious and luxurious villas
- Mouth-watering cuisine to be enjoyed in the restaurant or on your private deck
- Large, refreshing uutdoor swimming pool
- Indulgent and pampering focused spa
- Set within a sprawling 58-acre lush green garden
Overview
The former ancestral estate of local Anuradhapura nobility, Uga Ulagalla is a beautiful boutique property set among 58 acres of lush tropical gardens in the Cultural Triangle.
At the heart of the hotel is a 150-year-old mansion which is surrounded by 25 villas, each with a private deck, plunge pool and huge windows looking out over paddy fields, forest or the lake. The two-bedroom Nikawewa Villa with separate living and dining room is perfect for families. The further two room categories are the Deluxe Pool Villa and Ulgalla Pool Villa.
Fresh fruit and vegetables from the garden are used to create mouthwatering Sri Lankan cuisine, which you can enjoy in the main restaurant, on your private deck or in the beautiful surroundings of the paddy fields.
Enjoy some time out at the spa, a tranquil haven where you can unwind with a rejuvenating treatment. There is also an outdoor swimming pool and fitness centre, as well as a pool table in the main house.
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The impact of your stay:
- Ulagalla demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainable building practices, especially in its construction within remote communities. The UGA group has purposefully chosen locations in remote and rural areas, allowing for a positive impact on these communities and a more equitable distribution of tourism benefits.
- In addressing the growing health concern of Chronic Kidney Disease of unknown aetiology (CKDu) prevalent in the region, particularly in Anuradhapura, Ulagalla took steps to establish Reverse Osmosis plants in the village of Athungama, providing a crucial source of safe drinking water for 250 families.
- Ulagalla is actively engaged in Sri Lankan Elephant conservation, partnering with Dr. Prithiviraj Fernando of the Centre for Conservation and Research, Sri Lanka. Recognizing the impact of habitat loss and deforestation on human-elephant conflict (HEC), the hotel tracks elephant movements. The on-site Elephant Research Centre (ERC) educates guests on conservation, and through fundraising, Ulagalla supports HEC projects, including strategic electric fencing and community education programmes.
Exploring the Cultural Triangle
Anuradhapura by bicycle
Dating back to the fourth century BC, Anuradhapura was the spiritual and secular capital of the island for well over a millennium. At its height, the city was dotted with monasteries and home to over 10,000 monks; many monasteries and colossal dagobas can still be seen today. Today, this privately guided cycling tour takes you through a dozen sites, such as the three largest man-made stupas in Sri Lanka and the sacred Sri Maha Bodhi fig tree. You will bike along flat terrain, making stops along the way for pictures and to enjoy the scenery.
Kamatha dining experience at Uga Ulagalla
The Kamatha, a dining experience set in the centre of a working paddy (rice) field will allow you to explore Sri Lanka’s flavours. You will sample dishes, learning the cooks’ favourite recipes and how traditions are reflected in the myriad of fragrant spices and seasonings. You’ll also learn about utensils used for some 2000 years, hand-made clay pots and open wood fires. Enjoy lake fish and free-range meats, plus breads and old-world rice, the signature crop here.
Nachchaduwa scenic drive with Uga Ulagalla
Explore the area by four-wheel drive on a journey in search of cultural, natural and history highs. Take in ancient reservoirs, lakes, farmland and villages as you travel through areas of indigenous forest and observe local fishermen. You may come across herds of domesticated buffalo, varieties of birds and tree-hopping monkeys, and possibly wild elephants. All sightings are mapped and tracked and every jeep drive assists in elephant conservation efforts. Stop for sundowners at Nachchaduwa Lake, a vast reservoir framed by dense pockets of forest and distant hills.
Other possibilities
For children
For adventure
Uga Ulagalla's Junior Rangers
Younger guests can join Uga Ulagalla’s Junior Ranger Program which has been designed to teach curious minds about nature, wildlife and the environment in a fun and engaging way. Over a morning or afternoon, we take children on an exciting journey of natural discovery.
Explore Sigiriya
The iconic Sigiriya, also known as Lion Rock, was the site of a city and forest, built around and on top of a huge column of rock in the 5th century by King Kasyapa. Abandoned soon after his death, it was then used as a Buddhist monastery. You’ll explore the gardens and archaeological remains below before scaling the 1200 steps to the top for an amazing view.
Two days in Kandy
A world of ancient kings, ornate temples, lush gardens and vibrant traditions, Kandy is the second largest city in Sri Lanka and its cultural capital. In the midst of hills and surrounded by paddy fields and tea plantations, the town is the home of the Temple of the Tooth Relic (Sri Dalada Maligawa), the country’s most important religious shrine. Browse the bustling market places with bright, fresh produce, local delicacies and fragrant spices.
Where Sarah stayed
Kandy
Highlights
- Gourmet restaurant serving traditional Sri Lankan cuisine with incredible views
- Three room categories offering spacious living flooded with natural light
- Close to the cultural capital of Kandy
- Indulging spa with modern treatments to reduce tension
- Turquoise hillside infinity pool
Overview
Kings Pavilion is situated just outside the cultural capital of Sri Lanka, Kandy. The hotel sits within misty mountains where lush green foliage frames stunning views of these beautiful surroundings. This location, along with the natural materials used in construction, brings a sense of calm, peace, tranquillity and connection with nature.
The decor here harnesses traditional Sri Lankan design with open verandahs, teak wood interiors and antique furnishings. All the guest rooms at Kings Pavilion are spacious and the large windows, some floor to ceiling and some wrapping two entire walls, flood the rooms with light. Furnishings are calming neutrals with lots of exposed wood bringing a lovely warmth to the space.
The hotel’s restaurant, which looks out over Hunnasgiriya Mountain, serves delicious Sri Lankan cuisine as well as international dishes. There is also an infinity pool built on the edge of a hill and a sauna and spa treatment rooms.
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Exploring Kandy
Three Temple Loop
Today you’ll enjoy a walk to three compelling temples. Located in the Central Highlands, just a few kilometres to the south west of Kandy, a seven kilometre path links the Embekke, Lankathilake and Gadaladeniya temples. The path will take you past fertile rice fields and through small bustling towns lined with colourful houses, where you’ll see women swathed in vibrant saris. Along the way, chat to friendly locals and sip tea in tea stalls. The three temples can also be conveniently linked by car.
Temple of the Tooth
The Temple of the Tooth houses the relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Monks of the two chapters of Malwatte and Asgiriya conduct daily worship in the inner chamber of the temple. Continue on to explore Kandy itself with your chauffeur guide.
Other possibilities
By night
By day
Private Kandyan dance show at Kings Pavilion
According to the legend, the origins of Kandyan dance lies in an exorcism ritual known as the Kohomba Kankariya, which was originally performed by Indian shamans who came to the island, from which the locals adopted the dance. After the performance enjoy a delicious meal at Kings Pavilion.
Bird watching around Santani
Around Santani there are 114 species of birds, including 15 of the 34 endemic species. Join the naturalist with some binoculars and a field guide in the morning and spend a couple of hours observing resident birds on this trail before breakfast.
Experience a Sri Lankan train journey
Scenic train tride to the Tea Country
Board your train in Kandy and depart for the Tea Country, winding along hillside railways and through dewy, lush, bright green tunnels of palm, guava and carambola trees. Pass through small train stations and get a glimpse of everyday life within the Cultural Triangle as the vast rolling tea estates come into view.
Two nights in of immersive experiences in the Tea Country
Undulating hills blanketed in green plantations, Sri Lanka’s Tea Country is the world’s fourth largest producer of tea. You’ll see the hills dotted with experienced tea-pickers quickly but meticulously harvesting leaves by hand, baskets slung across their backs. Skilful workers deftly pluck the most flavoursome and aromatic parts of the bushes – the topmost leaves and buds – which are then sent to nearby factories to be dried and processed. The first tea plantations were established in Kandy in the 1860s and now most of the scenic central region’s elevated slopes are covered in contoured rows of maintained plants.
Where Sarah stayed
Tea Country
Highlights
- 26 rooms
- 5 bungalows
- Meals and drinks included
- Dining
- Pool
- Spa treatments
- Walking and biking trails
- Tennis
- Croquet
Overview
The Ceylon Tea Trails resort is the ideal place from which to explore this breathtaking part of Sri Lanka.
Dating back to colonial times, five spacious bungalows feature antique furniture and exemplary, personalised service. With between four and six rooms, they are perfect for families and small groups.
All of the 26 rooms and suites, which are named after tea planters who lived there, are elegantly outfitted in natural colours and materials, and make for a tranquil escape. Spend time out on the veranda in the fresh mountain air enjoying the views of Castlereagh Lake, the Bogawantalawa Valley and Dunkeld Estate; or curl up with a book in front of a fire.
Take long, leisurely walks through the tea plantations learning all about the ancient process of making tea, enjoy a tempting spread of sweet treats on the lawns or have a light lunch at the pool side. Sri Lankan-inspired meals at Ceylon Tea Trails feature the freshest of seasonal produce with home grown vegetables, herbs and teas from the estate. Rates at Tea Trails are fully inclusive of meals and drinks.
Make the most of the calming surroundings and start the day with an aromatic bath, or treat yourself to a selection of therapeutic spa treatments in your room. Get a healthy dose of fresh air and explore some of the walking and biking routes through the mountains, or enjoy a game of tennis or croquet.
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The impact of your stay:
- Ceylon Tea Trails, located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea plantations, addresses the vulnerabilities faced by those working in the tea industry, who are often at risk of poverty. Through the Ceylon Tea Trails Foundation, the hotel supports local communities with initiatives such as housing, health centres, and educational scholarships. Additionally, the foundation runs programs for the disabled and partners with the Colombo Academy of Hospitality Management for hospitality training, showcasing a commitment to holistic community well-being.
- Ceylon Tea Trails is deeply engaged in wildlife conservation efforts, collaborating with prominent organisations such as the Department of Wildlife Conservation and the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWCT). Their initiatives span across diverse projects, including hill country leopard conservation in partnership with the IUCN.
Explore the estates
A private tea tour with Ceylon Tea Trails
A guided tour of the Dunkeld Tea Factory is a quintessential tea experience for those visiting Sri Lanka. Here, you will delve into all aspects of tea – from a look back to the early days of “planting” and the lifestyles of the early colonial plantation owners, to the manufacturing process, to how flavours are created to suit various palates. What went into creating the perfect cup of refreshing Ceylon tea in 1867 were equal parts science, art, sleight of hand, and a spot of luck, and little has changed since.
A pause in Colombo
Return to Colombo for a foodie experience, before continuing to Negombo for your final night.
A taste of Sri Lanka
Snack and sip like a sailor
Old Colombo was once a hustling and bustling port city. The hard-working laborer had little time for a hearty meal, so make did with high-calorie or sweet snacks. Late evening was spent in a watering hole where many alcoholic beverages might be consumed. The next morning’s hangovers would be treated by a frothy, sugary strong tea. These bold dietary habits still carry on thanks to some surviving establishments. Visit street food carts and taste delicacies as you hear the stories behind them, visit a historic tea shop and take a tuk tuk to an old British mason mansion turned hotel for a distilled coconut toddy.
Relax in Negombo
Negombo is a buzzing and vibrant city, prosperous port and a wonderful place to experience everyday life in Sri Lanka. There’s plenty of history to discover, particularly a distinctive heritage evident in the old fort and several canals that run to the coastline. Negombo is a wonderful place to relax. Swaying palm-fringed private estates and wide yellow-sand beaches offer a place to regroup after your adventure.
Where Sarah stayed
Negombo
Highlights
- Just seven luxury bedrooms; deluxe, superior and premier suites
- Delicious dining to be enjoyed in the main house or outside with the swaying palms
- Set within a private, exclusive coconut palm estate
- Tranquil swimming pool set within the beautiful manicured gardens
Overview
Uga Riva is a manor house that was built nearly two centuries ago and has been lovingly restored to showcase its original features such as pillared verandas, delicate fretwork, graceful arches and a traditional courtyard. Once the home of a prominent Colombo family, there’s a feeling of distinguished style that remains within its walls and secluded, private 5 acre coconut palm estate. Staying here brings a sense of complete calm and serenity and with its convenient location just 30 minutes from the international airport, it’s a wonderful place to start or end (or both) an adventure in Sri Lanka.
This is a boutique hotel with just seven luxurious bedrooms that, along with the discreet personalised service afforded every guest, conjures up a feeling of luxury and exclusivity. The sprawling manicured gardens and refreshing swimming pool simply add to the refined, calm and elegant atmosphere. Sri Lanka is known for its delicious and flavoursome cuisine and Uga Riva prides itself on the exceptional dining offered to its guests. The talented chefs prepare a range of mouth-watering dishes that can be enjoyed in the house or alfresco in secluded areas of the tropical gardens.
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Two nights exploring Galle
Spend two nights in the atmospheric town of Galle exploring its fascinating history, architecture and culture. The unmissable Galle Fort juts out to sea and stands as a testament to the importance of this region in the spice trade in the 16th century. The Portuguese, Dutch and British left their mark on this city, including the fort itself. Today the walls and everything inside them are a UNESCO World Heritage Site including the Victorian lighthouse, grand churches and mosques, all in a sultry tropical setting.
Spice traders and merchants have been replaced by a cosmopolitan crowd of artists, writers, designers and poets, and Galle’s small streets are packed with boutique shops, buzzing bars and cafes, as fishermen on their stilts continue as they always have done.
Where Sarah stayed
Galle
Overview
A cool retreat from the hot streets of historic Galle, Fort Bazaar takes up residence in a completely and immaculately restored 18th-century merchant’s townhouse right in the heart of town.
18 cool, chic rooms are arranged around a central courtyard, all spacious with high ceilings and four-poster beds. The family suite has two bedrooms.
Branching out from the breezy courtyard you’ll find the acclaimed Church Street Social Restaurant, a bar, private cinema, library and spa.
Walk out the front door and find yourself close to a range of boutique shops and the 300-year-old walls, making this the ideal place to soak up Galle Fort’s brooding atmosphere.
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Immerse yourself in Galle's fascinating history
A walking tour of Galle Fort with an expert archaeologist
Spend your time in Galle discovering the historical, archaeological and architectural heritage monument that is the Galle Fort with a special archaeologist guide. First built in 1589 by the Portuguese, and extensively fortified by the Dutch during the 17th century, Galle Fort has an interesting, and at times dramatic, history. As you learn about dates and stories, enjoy walking the ramparts and walls of this beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site as palms shake and the deep blue sea stretches out in front of you.
Other possibilities
On land
At sea
Discover Galle's art scene
Just outside Galle meet your guides at their local temple, the inspiration for many artists in the area. Spend the next few hours visiting the home of a prominent batik artist, mask maker and a puppet workshop. Stop for tea, snacks, a visit to the harbour and Asia’s largest reclining Buddha.
Enjoy a blue whale-watching tour
Set out early this morning for the best whale watching conditions and the calmest oceans. Boarding the boat at Mirissa, you will set sail for the Indian Ocean on a shared trip to spot the world’s biggest mammals, before returning back to land by mid-afternoon.
Two final nights in Balapitiya
Balapitiya, on Sri Lanka’s west coast is lined with palm trees, stretches of idyllic sandy beaches, wildlife filled rivers that meet the ocean, huge granite boulders that add drama to the serene lush coastal landscapes and strong sense of art and folk culture.
Not far from the capital and with easy access to the charming town of Galle, Balapitiya is a rather lovely stop to relax and unwind with a host of activities and experiences at your fingertips from culinary classes, wildlife tours to observe turtles and water sports on the open waves.
Where Sarah stayed
Balapitiya
Highlights
- Large, beachfront infinity swimming pool
- Access to indulgent spa treatments
- Gourmet dining both inside and al fresco
- Private breakfast and sundowners at the poolside
- Exclusive and personalised service
- Yoga sessions in the cool sea breeze
Overview
Kumu Beach is a modern, sleek boutique hotel that beautifully combines luxurious living with the stunning natural world. Simply steps from golden sand beaches, surrounded by swaying palms and set within lush green gardens, there’s a distinctive feeling of being at one with nature when you stay here.
There are just 10 bedrooms here, maintaining a wonderful exclusive and intimate environment. The three different room categories between them offer sea views, huge bathrooms, private balconies, direct access to the garden and across the board all the amenities to be expected in a luxury hotel. Simple design in neutral colours is favoured throughout the property with some stand out art and sculpture pieces. Alfresco social areas are echoed in the bedrooms where large windows and open doors allow for plenty of space and a feeling of relaxation.
Enjoy the large infinity swimming pool, spa, private restaurant and the opportunity to take part in many experiences from cooking classes to watersports.
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Soak up Sri Lankan life
Sri Lankan Cooking Experience at Kumu Beach
Together with the chef from Kumu Beach’s delicious restaurant you will create a Sri Lankan feast of different curries to share together for dinner or lunch. You will learn about spices and different methods of preparing each of the delicious curries. The chef will go shopping for vegetables at the local market, extending the invite to anyone who really wants to get under the skin of Sri Lankan cooking.
You will learn how to cook using clay pots or ‘chatties’, said to be the secret behind the authentic and distinctive flavours in Sri Lankan cuisine and used across the island for centuries. Villagers in rural villages still use them for cooking on an open hearth.
Start planning
your adventure
How it works
- Simply click ‘Start Planning’ or give us a call.
- We’ll get in touch within 24 hours and work with you to perfect the details of your trip.
- Sit back and relax while we plan a bespoke itinerary for you.
Why book with Jacada
Pesonalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your personal interests, tastes and preferences, providing honest advice based on first-hand knowledge.
Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant Concierges are hand-picked for their ability to bring your destination to life with care and passion.
Positive Impact
We seek out unforgettable experiences that benefit both local communities and the environment.
