An Exclusive Small Group Journey in Sri Lanka
8 travellers | Hosted by the founders | Curated with local expertise
We Thibaud & Chaya, the founders of Passiko Voyages, invite you on an exclusive Sri Lanka Group Escape with us! This is NOT just any group tour — it’s a journey we have lovingly crafted to share the beauty, warmth, and authenticity of Sri Lanka.
With Chaya’s local roots and deep knowledge of the island combined with Thibaud’s extensive work experience in travel & tourism in Sri Lanka, we will guide you from historical temples, secluded villages and lush tea hills to quiet beaches and lively local markets. Along the way, we will connect with local artisans, savour local cuisine, and create space to truly experience authentic Sri Lanka.
You will hear folktales and ancestral stories passed down through generations, shared by Chaya herself. She will unveil the island’s best-kept secrets — its age-old customs, sacred rituals, and untamed nature — offering you an intimate glimpse into the heart and soul of Sri Lanka.
It is a journey into Sri Lanka's spirit - felt, tasted & remembered.
Highlights
-
Going back in time to the ancient royal capital with its majestic stupas & taking part in local customs to pay homage to these sacred sites.
-
Hopping on a local train in the misty mountains & walking through a village home.
-
Meeting the local artisans in their home garden making traditional drums.
-
Going on a wildlife safari to spot elephants, the elusive leopards & exotic birds in their natural habitat.
-
Exploring the South Coast with its laid-back charm.
Dates & Price Information
*Flights excluded
What's included in the price?
Founders, Chaya & Thibaud personally guide the entire journey (We speak English, French, Dutch, Spanish, Portuguese & German) Transportation in a private, comfortable air-conditioned minibus/coach Fuel, highway tolls, parking, insurance of the vehicle Driver’s accommodation & meals Airport transfer Accommodation in charming small-scale boutique hotels (double or twin room on shared basis) Meals as mentioned in the programme: 13x breakfast, 11x lunch and 12x dinner Entrance fees to historical sites, activities & experiences mentioned in the programme Government & service taxes
What's not included in the price?
International flights (We are happy to help you find the most suitable flights) Drinks and personal expenses Optional excursions/activities Visa costs Cancellation, baggage, and travel insurance (We are happy to help you find a suitable insurance) Vaccinations & medical costs Tips Anything that is not listed in the "what's included in the price?" section
Tip: comfortable flights in economy class from Europe to Sri Lanka can be found from € 700 onwards
Programme
Day 1: Airport - Colombo
Welcome to Sri Lanka. Upon meeting Thibaud, Chaya and your fellow travellers, you have the option to go for a short walk or lay back for some rest at your accommodation.
Later in the evening, we dine together and get to know each other.
(Dinner)
Day 2: Colombo
We explore the vibrant commercial capital Colombo with lively markets and colonial architecture along with the hustle and bustle of tuk-tuks. The city is a perfect example where multireligious communities live in harmony.
In the late afternoon, we head to the sea side to relax by the ocean and watch the sun set.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 3: Colombo - Anuradhapura
In the morning, we drive through the sub-urban and countryside views to Yapahuwa, a hidden rock fortress dating from the 13th century.
Afterwards, we continue our journey to Anuradhapura, Sri Lanka’s first ancient kingdom. Here, we wander through centuries-old stupas, sacred temples, and ancient ruins that tell stories of a glorious past. Many sites remain as holy places and temples for Buddhists. In the evening, we will witness & take part in local rituals around a holy stupa.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 4: Anuradhapura - Sigiriya
We visit ancient bathing ponds & the renowned Samadhi statue: a significant sculpture of Buddha in meditative state.
Later we drive to Sigiriya. The drive between Anuradhapura and Sigiriya shows you the Sri Lankan countryside with its vast paddy fields.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 5: Sigiriya
We continue our journey within the renowned cultural triangle.
Today, we quietly introduce you to the customs of rural life followed by a traditional lunch. Then, we visit the magnificent Dambulla rock caves, a UNESCO World heritage site featuring five stunning cave temples adorned with ancient Buddhist murals and over 150 statues of the Buddha. Later in the afternoon, we have a virtual reality (VR) experience that narrates the wonderful story of the Sigiriya Lion rock fortress.
(Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Day 6: Sigiriya - Kandy
Today we climb the majestic Lion Rock at sunrise. This palace, built by King Kassapa I, also an UNESCO World Heritage site. Its gardens & water systems are considered an engineering marvel.
Later we gradually cross the first hills, we make a short stop at Nalanda Gedige. The location of this ancient, complete stone temple near Matale is considered the geographical center of Sri Lanka.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 7: Kandy
Kandy is the last kingdom of Sri Lanka & the cultural hub for traditional upcountry dance & music. We visit a heritage dance school upon availability & get to know the local rhythm & beats.
Late afternoon, we experience the Temple of Tooth Relic with a pooja.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 8: Kandy - Idalgasinna
In the morning, we visit a drum village where traditional drums are made.
Then we drive deeper into the mountains. As we ascend you see the landscape change and the temperatures also drop. Expect temperatures around 22 degrees during the day and 15 degrees at night. The landscapes quickly convert into tea plantations. We have lunch in the city of Nuwara Eliya, also known as “Little England”.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 9: Idalgasinna
We begin our morning with a picturesque train ride followed by a picnic breakfast with breathtaking mountain views. Then, we enjoy a leisurely walk back visiting a local family’s home, where we will learn to make traditional Sri Lankan sweet treats and share a warm cup of tea together.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 10: Idalgasinna - Yala
It's time to leave the cooler climate behind. The descent into the lowlands, south of the mountains, is a pleasure for the eyes. If weather conditions allow, we do a water fall trek on the way & enjoy a relaxed moment in nature.
Later, we visit Buduruwagala, Buddhist rock sculptures. The seven carved statues probably date from the ninth century. The largest statue is around 15 meters high, making it the tallest standing carved Buddha statue in the island.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 11: Yala
We go on an afternoon safari at Yala National park. It is famous for its population of elusive leopards and is also home to elephants, sloth bears, crocodiles, and countless species of birds. We will explore the diverse landscapes of light jungles, open grasslands, and serene lagoons through a jeep safari.
(Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner)
Day 12: Yala - Talalla
Today is your day to enjoy the Southern Coast and the warm Indian ocean. Soak in the sun, swim in the sea and walk on the sandy beach and completely relax.
(Breakfast & Lunch)
Day 13: Talalla
You have the option to visit a real colonial gem of the Portuguese-Dutch period: The Galle Fort, one of the best preserved living forts in the world.
Or completely relax at the beach.
(Breakfast & Dinner)
Day 14: Talalla - Airport
Depending on your departure times, you can still enjoy the coast a bit more. We say goodbye and give you many wonderful memories to take home.
(Breakfast)
Route Map
Colombo
Anuradhapura
Sigiriya
Kandy
Idalgasinna
Yala
Talalla
Accommodation
Practical Information
Weather
Sri Lanka has a tropical climate: warm & humid. The temperature remains the same (27 - 30 °C) in the coastal areas but cools with altitude. In the hills, the temperature can drop until +/- 12 °C in January. Thanks to 2 monsoon seasons that differ by region, there is always a coast line that can be enjoyed. Remember, it's a tropical climate, so occasional downpours of rain are common anytime of the year followed by sunshine.
Passport & Visa
You need an international passport and it must be valid for more than 6 months from the date of arrival in Sri Lanka. A tourist visa for Sri Lanka is mandatory and can be applied online.
Health
No vaccination is obligatory. The following vaccinations are recommended: tetanus, typhoid, polio, hepatitis A + B Before your departure, remember to put together a suitable first aid kit and include mosquito repellents. To be on the safe side, before travelling, it is always good to ask your doctor or an authorised vaccination center for advice and information you need.
Currency
Local currency: Sri Lankan rupee (LKR) How to exchange currency? You may exchange them directly at the airport on arrival. Alternatively, you can withdraw money directly from an ATM. It is very important to inform your bank before you travel so that your bank and credit cards can be activated for foreign use. To get an idea about the current exchange rates, you may use the following website: https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/
It's not possible to obtain Sri Lanka's official currency out of Sri Lanka.
Intensity
This tour is open to all ages as long as you are in good shape and have good mobility. You need to be able to walk at least 5-7 kms per day in warm humid weather. Most historical sites consist of uneven steps.
Transport
Transport is provided in a private air conditioned mini van/coach/bus with a driver. A local bus, train or tuk-tuk may be taken for a short scenic route if mentioned in the programme.
Clothing
Light cotton comfortable clothing is suitable for tropical weather. Good walking shoes & sandals are recommended. The mountains are cooler therefore it is advised to carry a light sweater or a jacket. When visiting temples, one must cover shoulders and wear knee length trousers or skirts. Tattoos of religious images are prohibited, and travellers can even be deported, so make sure you wear appropriate clothing to avoid this.
Cuisine
Sri Lankan cuisine is rich with flavour and full of spices. Rice & curry is often served with rice, 2 to 3 local vegetables cooked in different styles, a local salad accompanied by meat of fish. Coconut milk is the base of many curries & many dishes consist some form of coconut.
Would you like to talk to us before joining our exclusive group tour?
