Boutique Sri Lanka
Our flagship itinerary for curious first-timers. An alternative perspective on Sri Lanka with characterful boutique hotels.
In many ways, Sri Lanka is immense. Not in size - in fact, the Indian Ocean island is quite compact - but in the magnitude of its beauty: the ancient temples, the staggering beaches, the lushness that seems impossible to contain. But Sri Lanka’s magic also lies in smaller, everyday moments. The coconuts, everywhere. The swooping fruit bats - also everywhere. The first bite of rice and curry, chased by an Arrack sour. And the warm, Sri Lankan hospitality that exudes from people, everywhere you go.
SRI LANKA WITH ETG
The birthplace of Experience Travel Group, Sri Lanka is a country close to our heart. When founders Sam and Tom travelled to its Indian Ocean shores back in 2004, they witnessed not only the devastation of the Boxing Day tsunami but a resilient, brave people who pulled together until the country shone again.
Since then, tourism has blossomed; roads have improved and incredible hotels emerged all over the island. Thanks to our long-standing bond with the locals and the land, we have become veritable experts in this part of the world, and developed unique and ethical experiences that aren’t available anywhere else.
Top Sri Lanka Holiday Destinations
For those interested in culture, the Buddhist temples, ancient cities and architectural gems of the Cultural Triangle are a must. The central hill country, with its verdant tea plantations and dramatic mountain ranges, are perfect for those who love beautiful landscapes. With a wonderful array of charming towns and long stretches of untouched sand, the south coast is generally considered the best place for a beach holiday in Sri Lanka. And for those who like to go truly off-the-beaten-track, visiting the north and eastern regions can provide a fascinating insight into the country’s history.
With your private guide, you will discover different and fascinating aspects of Sri Lankan life.
On an ETG holiday, travellers 'get involved', meeting people and discovering new communities.
In tropical Sri Lanka, exotic species are all around, from monkeys to fruit bats and spot rainbow-hued birds.
WHEN TO GO TO SRI LANKA
Sri Lanka is a tropical island with two monsoon seasons, which can lead to confusion around the best time to visit. The south-western monsoon winds bring intermittent rain to the south-west of Sri Lanka in May and June and to a lesser extent August and September. From December to March, this region usually sees hot and dry weather. The north-eastern monsoon comes between October and January, and this region sees drier weather between May and September. Please see this page for a more detailed breakdown of the weather in Sri Lanka.
Suggested itineraries in Sri Lanka
Whether you’re looking for beach trips or active adventures; family holidays or encounters with wildlife; luxury getaways or an in-depth cultural tour - Sri Lanka has it all, and much more. Sri Lanka luxury holidays are particularly special thanks to the spectacular array of hotels, but our itineraries can all be adapted to suit your individual travel style. ETG tours always go deeper than standard Sri Lanka package holidays, giving you an authentic insight into Sri Lankan life - so you can meet people, share stories and have a true cultural exchange.
Laid back Sri Lanka
Relax and enjoy the glorious beauty and diversity of Sri Lanka but with limited tiring journeys and added serendipity.
Luxury with a Touch of Adventure
A full immersion in Sri Lanka culture and some exceptional, characterful & luxurious hotels.
Of course, our trip and travel services go much further than the main sites. We take travellers an inch off the map into little known regions. Our chauffeur-guides, the very best the business, reveal the soul of the island through their knowledge and stories. You'll stay in lovely, characterful hotels and lodges that reflect the country’s spirit without missing that element of luxury, either: we know just how to find the perfect balance between relaxation and discovery.
Our private, local guides bring Sri Lanka to life through their knowledge and stories.
Sri Lanka is the home of the boutique hotel, with endless charm and homely service.
Popular hotels in Sri Lanka
Whether you like luxury, something quirky and characterful, an intimate family-run hotel or a mixture of all that and more, Sri Lanka has some of the most amazing hotels in Asia. At ETG, we think the best holiday hotels in Sri Lanka are often the smaller, boutique-style properties as these give you a true flavour of the destination. However, we will always help you find the accommodation that is right for you.
Mudhouse, Anamaduwa
Stunning jungle lodge and hideaway with unique accommodation, superb service and off-the-beaten-track excursions.
Ravana Garden, Kalametiya
Pioneering boutique hotel on the southern coast where luxurious comfort and environmentally friendly ethos happily co-exist.
Tea Trails, Hatton
Four luxuriously appointed bungalows situated around the beautiful Castlereagh reservoir amongst hill country scenery.
The Notary's House, Pannala
A charming six-bedroom hotel set amidst manicured gardens, offering a calm and serene space to relax into your Sri Lankan holiday.
Water Garden , Sigiriya
A luxury hideaway surrounded by beautiful landscapes, lakes and streams. A fantastic all round hotel with lovely villas.
Wild Coast Tented Lodge, Yala
A small group of luxury 'Cocoon' tents on the edge of Yala and the rugged coastline; a great base from which to explore the park.
More Information for travel to Sri Lanka
Our trips are privately guided, yet still allow space for discovery. In Sri Lanka, you will have your own private guide to help give you the local lowdown and show you the best places to eat, drink and shop. Equally, however, we don’t believe in rigidly scheduling every minute of your holiday; you will always have time and space to unlock the magic of Sri Lanka on your own.
Curious Travellers Guide to Sri Lanka
Wondering when to visit Sri Lanka? Our Curious Traveller’s Guide to Sri Lanka will give you a more detailed breakdown of the best time of year to book a holiday, as well as tips on the best beaches, unmissable sites, and much more.
In terms of passport and visa information, you're welcome to ask our Travel Team any questions you may have. Once you book a Sri Lanka holiday with us, this will all be provided in your travel pack. For the latest travel advice for visiting Sri Lanka, please get in touch with us directly or consult advice from the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (FCO).
Finally, we believe an ETG experience can’t begin unless you have complete peace of mind. Experience Travel Group is a member of both ABTA and the ATOL scheme, which means that you are 100% financially protected from the moment you book, and a member of our friendly team will be on hand to help 24 hours a day before, during and after your holiday. Take a look at this web page for more information about financial protection.
A HOLIDAY WITH EXPERIENCE TRAVEL GROUP
Make it
Count
Exceptional, ethical experiences that impact positively; sustainable, mindful travel is at the heart of all we do. So, you can tread gently, knowing every step of your journey counts.
JOIN OUR TRAVEL COLLECTIVE
Unforgettable journeys where you realise you don't need the same language to laugh, commune and connect. Come join our travel collective and share the extraordinary world we know.
FIND A DIFFERENT STORY
Imaginative, immersive adventures; our individually created holidays are your guaranteed passport to a life less ordinary. Embrace the unexpected; travel curiously; discover a new you.
TRAVEL WITH CONFIDENCE
Bespoke itineraries designed to suit you, and only you. With full financial protection and 24/7 support; we'll ensure you travel seamlessly, safely and responsibly, too. We're with you all the way.
