Discerning Experience
Flavours Of Sri Lanka
“Flavours of Sri Lanka” with The Discerning Collection, provides a unique opportunity to cook culinary master peices and regional delicacies with wonderful local Sri Lankans
Embark on an extraordinary journey through the enchanting landscapes of Sri Lanka, where diverse geographical wonders await. From the serene beaches to the lush hill country, this itinerary invites you to explore a tapestry of vibrant scenes and rich cultural experiences. Uncover the secrets of local life with immersive cooking classes, where you’ll learn to craft regional delicacies alongside warm-hearted families. Each day presents unique opportunities to delve into the heart of Sri Lankan traditions, whether it’s mastering the art of biryani-making or savoring the finest Ceylon tea. This journey not only captures the breathtaking beauty of the island but also fosters genuine connections with its people, ensuring an unforgettable experience that tantalizes your senses and enriches your understanding of this captivating destination.
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Delve into the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine with immersive cooking experiences that highlight regional flavors and beloved national dishes. Engage in a hands-on biryani-making class with a local family, learning the stories behind the spices that define this aromatic dish. Discover the history of Ceylon tea at the Dambatenne Tea Factory and savor a luxurious high tea in a picturesque setting. Our connections with local families and artisans grant you access to experiences typically reserved for the fortunate few, ensuring that every moment is not only enriching but also exclusive.
As you traverse the enchanting landscapes, from the historical charm of Galle Fort to the lush greenery of Kanneliya Reserve, you’ll gain insight into the island’s vibrant traditions and natural wonders. Savor an arrack tasting that highlights Sri Lanka’s unique spirit, or enjoy a delightful seafood soirée in a local home, where every dish tells a story. This thoughtfully curated itinerary promises to leave you with lasting memories, deepening your appreciation for the culinary artistry and warm hospitality that define Sri Lanka.
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Day 1: Kotugoda
Transfer from Bandaranaike International Airport (CMB) to The Wallawwa for an overnight stay, allowing you to rest and acclimatize. (Approx. 30 minutes)
Accommodation: The Wallawwa
Day 2: Kandy
This morning following breakfast, you will check out of your hotel and transfer to Kandy (approx. 3 hours).
This evening, embark on an exclusive journey through Kandy, guided by a local expert who will reveal the city’s iconic landmarks and hidden treasures. Wander through the lively markets, brimming with vibrant colors and aromas, before visiting the revered Temple of the Tooth—an architectural marvel within the former royal palace complex. This sacred temple houses the ancient Relic of the Tooth of Buddha, a symbol so powerful that it has long been believed to confer sovereignty upon its guardian. A captivating glimpse into the spirit and heritage of Kandy awaits.
Accommodation: The Kandy House
Day 3: Kandy
Today, you’ll step into the warm embrace of a local Sri Lankan home for an unforgettable biryani-making experience. This is no ordinary cooking lesson; it’s a deep dive into the heart of Sri Lankan cuisine, lovingly shaped by the flavors and influences of British, Dutch, Portuguese, and Arab heritage. You’ll cook alongside a charming family, where the father—an engaging storyteller with a treasure trove of anecdotes—will bring each ingredient to life with tales of tradition. Revel in the aromas, laugh together over spices, and indulge in a shared meal, creating memories to savor. And before you leave, be sure to ask for the family’s own biryani recipe—a culinary keepsake to bring the taste of Sri Lanka home.
Spend the remainder of the day at leisure at your hotel.
Accommodation: The Kandy House
Day 4: Haputale
This morning you will check-out and drive up through winding roads and plantations to Nanu Oya Railway Station (approx. 3 hours).
Step aboard a charming vintage train, reserved seats awaiting, as you journey from Nanu Oya to Haputale—an evocative ride that harks back to British colonial elegance of the late 1800s. Drift through emerald tea estates, lush forests, tranquil villages, and cascading waterfalls, as the train winds gently toward the hilltop haven of Haputale. The approximately 2.5-hour journey is pure enchantment, each mile unveiling scenes of Sri Lanka’s breathtaking landscapes.
You will then meet your guide and transfer to your hotel. Tonight enjoy a tea infused dinner at Thotalagala.
Accommodation: Thotalagal Hotel
Day 5: Haputale
This morning, step into history at the Dambatenne Tea Factory and Lipton’s Seat. Built by Sir Thomas Lipton in 1890, this iconic factory coined the term “Ceylon Tea” and still operates today, where the very first pound of Lipton’s tea was crafted and sold. Later, retreat to your bungalow for an afternoon of High Tea, recognized as the “Best High Tea in Sri Lanka.” Delight in a selection of exquisite Sri Lankan-inspired bites and timeless high-tea favorites, an experience as visually stunning as it is delicious.
Accommodation: Thotalagala
Day 6: Ahangama
Today you will check out from your hotel and transfer to the south (approx. 4 hours).
At 5 PM, join a resident expert for an enchanting Galle Fort Walk. Uncover the hidden gems and rich heritage of this UNESCO site, where Portuguese, Dutch, and British influences are woven into the vibrant local life. This hands-on journey brings to life the legacy left by colonial settlers and the stories of their descendants within the fort’s walls.
After your tour, head to Ropewalk for an immersive arrack tasting. Discover the character and history of Sri Lanka’s iconic spirit, made from the sap of coconut flowers collected by toddy tappers, for an experience that’s full of flavor and history.
Accommodation: Tekanda Lodge
Day 7: Ahangama
At 10:30 AM, begin a captivating cinnamon experience at Top House Estate, just a short ride inland from Weligama. Here, the resident British owners will guide you through their working cinnamon plantation, sharing insights into Ceylon cinnamon’s rich history. Watch as cinnamon peeling and artisan leaf oil production are skilfully demonstrated before heading to the plantation house for a lunch overlooking stunning ocean and jungle views. The experience lasts around two hours and includes a leisurely tractor ride.
Enjoy the remainder of your day at leisure.
Accommodation: Tekanda Lodge
Day 8: Ahangama
This morning, embark on an unforgettable rainforest trek, about 1.5 hours’ drive away, to the hidden gem of Kanneliya Reserve. This lesser-known forest is a vibrant sanctuary, with two rivers weaving through lush greenery alive with wildlife. Join your expert local tracker, who knows every path by heart, as he leads you through trails brimming with birds, monkeys, and intriguing insects. Pause by a waterfall to savor a Milo and a slice of cake, and perhaps dip your toes in the water. Complete your trek with an authentic lakeside Sri Lankan rice-and-curry lunch, lovingly prepared by your guide’s wife—a perfect blend of nature, culture, and local flavors.
The rest of the day is yours to unwind at leisure.
Accommodation: Tekanda Lodge
Day 9: Colombo
Today you will check out of your hotel and leisurely transfer to Colombo (approx. 2.5 hours).
This evening, join Sreema and Nuwani for a Spice Coast Crab & Arrack Soirée in their family home—a true culinary delight. Savor authentic Sri Lankan dishes like the renowned Jaffna crab curry and specialty crab masala, paired with handcrafted arrack cocktails. This is a wonderful chance to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of Sri Lankan flavors, spices, and warm hospitality with this charming mother-daughter duo.
Accommodation: ISHQ Colombo
Day 10: Departure
At an appropriate time, transfer to the airport for your international flight. (Approx. 45 mins drive).
Our carefully curated choice of boutique hotels represents the pinnacle of luxury on the island, each renowned for their exceptional service and meticulous attention to detail. The passionate owners are dedicated to providing an unforgettable experience, showcasing the very best of Sri Lankan hospitality. Our selection of hotels enjoy privileged positions —from lush tea plantations to wildlife reserves, wild beaches, and cultural hotspots—these small, stylish sanctuaries possess a distinct sense of place and heritage, ensuring a truly special stay that reflects the beauty and charm of Sri Lanka.
The Wallawwa redefines the concept of an airport hotel, transcending the ordinary to deliver an extraordinary experience just 15 minutes from Sri Lanka’s main international gateway. Nestled within 200-year-old tropical gardens, this award-winning country house hotel is housed in an atmospheric 18th-century manor that radiates charm and elegance. With only 18 exquisitely appointed bedrooms, The Wallawwa offers an intimate retreat where guests can indulge in gourmet cuisine, unwind by the enchanting jungle pool, and rejuvenate in the heavenly spa. In stark contrast to the typical offerings in Negombo, The Wallawwa ensures your Sri Lankan journey begins or concludes with unparalleled sophistication and serenity.
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Once the residence of an aristocratic Sri Lankan family, The Kandy House is now a stunning boutique hotel featuring nine uniquely designed rooms. Nestled in the tranquil outskirts of Kandy, it is surrounded by lush gardens that boast a charming jungle swimming pool.
The hotel's architecture is truly captivating, showcasing chic interiors and unique antiques that harmonize beautifully with elegant arches, pillared verandas, and hardwood floors. Each room, with its four-poster bed and contemporary bathroom, offers garden views, while the absence of TVs and phones ensures a serene escape.
Dine on Asian fusion dishes and traditional Sri Lankan curries on the rear veranda, where the emerald lawn is alive with butterflies and birds, framed by tall, vine-covered trees. Beyond the lawn lies the jungle pool and an ambalama, offering views of the peaceful paddy valley. Guests can indulge in Ayurvedic massages and private yoga sessions, and while Kandy's attractions are just 20 minutes away, the local area invites exploration with rural bike rides and visits to ancient muralled temples.
2 Nights stay in Sun Beam (Deluxe Room) offered on a Bed and Breakfast basis
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Nestled on the verdant slopes of Sri Lanka’s tea country, this reimagined colonial bungalow offers an exquisite blend of history and timeless charm. This 150-year-old gem has been lovingly restored, preserving its British colonial elegance while infusing it with authentic Sri Lankan character. Each of the seven unique rooms and suites are named after influential British figures who left a positive mark on Sri Lanka during the colonial period, adding layers of heritage to an already captivating ambiance.
Positioned on what was once the iconic Dambatenne Tea Estate, originally acquired by the legendary tea baron Sir Thomas Lipton in the 1880s, this estate offers guests an invitation into the birthplace of Ceylon Tea. Dambatenne's tea factory, still operational and open for visitors, stands as a living testament to Lipton’s legacy. Nearby, village life hums with a gentle rhythm, blending seamlessly with the serene surroundings—temple music, occasional fireworks, and distant village festivities echo faintly across the landscape, adding to the charm of this retreat.
Beyond its storied history, this boutique hotel provides guests with immersive ways to experience Sri Lanka’s enchanting highlands. Guests can trek through the sprawling plantations, explore local temples, or tour the still-active tea factory to witness the artistry behind Ceylon Tea. After days filled with exploration, unwind in the tranquil luxury of the bungalow, savoring traditional high teas against a backdrop of breathtaking scenery—a perfect synthesis of elegance, history, and the warmth of Sri Lankan hospitality.
2 Nights stay in a Junior Suite offered on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
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Tekanda Lodge is the embodiment of Sri Lankan warmth and authenticity, lovingly designed by Richard and Charlie Pembroke to immerse guests in the vibrant local culture. Here, you’ll find yourself woven into the fabric of everyday life, from visiting the morning fish markets to sharing tea with local villagers. The lodge offers enriching experiences: try your hand at cooking traditional Sri Lankan dhal with the head chef, weigh fresh tea leaves at the estate, or cast a line on Koggala Lake. Tekanda Lodge is an invitation to a truly authentic and deeply connected Sri Lankan experience.
The lodge itself, once a thriving coconut and tea plantation, has transformed into a sanctuary that embraces nature’s wild beauty. Built from sustainable, locally sourced materials and designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding rainforest, Tekanda Lodge champions organic farming and eco-friendly practices. The estate has rewilded half of its ten-acre property, creating a self-sustaining ecosystem where organic fruit, cinnamon, tea, and coconut flourish. Powered by solar energy and a filtered well, Tekanda’s commitment to community extends to co-founding a nearby educational and vocational centre for women and children, including Sri Lanka’s first Girls’ Cricket Academy.
Perched on a hilltop overlooking Koggala Lake and the Indian Ocean, Tekanda Lodge offers both secluded tranquillity and access to Sri Lanka’s southern coast. Guests can revel in the panoramic views of the lush landscape, while palm-fringed beaches are just a stone’s throw away. Tekanda Lodge is a luxurious escape that combines nature, community, and culture—crafted to leave you feeling at home, enriched, and refreshed.
3 Nights stay in a Lodge Room offered on a Bed and Breakfast basis.
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Flights
Please kindly note an approximate economy flight cost is included in the initial rates displayed- however all prices will be confirmed at the point of booking and might be subject to change. It is also possible to upgrade your flights with a supplement.
Suggested carriers: Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates and Turkish Airlines.
Trip Includes
- All accommodation on the meal basis as mentioned on the “Accommodation” section.
- A complimentary 3GB eSIM for the lead guest—so you can get connected as soon as you arrive
- All return transfers in an air-conditioned Standard SUV throughout the tour with an English-speaking chauffeur guide.
- Services of the chauffeur guide and vehicle available up to 100Km on leisure days, un-used mileage cannot be accumulated and brought forward to the next day. Additional mileage would be charged on case-by-case basis.
- CIP fast track arrival services.
- All entrance fees, excursions and jeep safaris as stated on the itinerary except for any optional experiences.
- Welcome Pack, Bottled water, In-vehicle Wi-Fi throughout the tour.
- All currently applicable taxes.
Not included
- Sri Lankan Visa
- Beverages, unless stated otherwise
- Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls etc.
- Any services/experiences mentioned as optional (Payments for any of these are separate)
- Any Insurance
- Tips to guides, airport and hotel porters and restaurants
- Any change in tax structure resulting from the hike in published tariff
- Any other item not explicitly mentioned under included price
The prices detailed in our Classic Sri Lanka Itinerary are starting from prices and include the lead in rooms described and the board basis stipulated.
Our itineraries are fully customisable to suit your individual preferences. Whether you desire to upgrade to more luxurious room categories, modify your hotel selections, or explore alternative regions, we can effortlessly accommodate your requests. Additionally, if you wish to enhance your experience with different activities or adjust the duration of your stay, we are here to facilitate those changes. Our thoughtfully crafted itineraries serve as a foundation for discussion, allowing us to tailor your journey to your unique desires and requirements.
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