Beach

Golden sand, palm trees and turquoise water – this is Sri Lanka's classic beach holiday, with just enough sightseeing to keep it interesting. Hop along the south coast from the river estuary of Bentota to historic Galle, whale-watching Mirissa and the quiet coves of Tangalle.

The perfect balance: eight days of culture, tea country and wildlife followed by four nights on the beach to unwind. It suits couples and families who want to see the island but also come home rested.

Arugam Bay is one of the world's top surf destinations from May to October. This week includes five surf sessions with certified coaches at breaks for every level, plus a stop in Ella on the way and a lagoon safari in Kumana.

Hand-picked romantic hotels, private experiences and plenty of time together. Enjoy a sunrise hot-air balloon flight option over the Cultural Triangle, a candlelit dinner in a tea bungalow, a private safari in Yala and three nights in a beach villa in Tangalle.

Ten days is the most popular length for a first trip to Sri Lanka, and this route shows why. You will see the ancient rock fortress of Sigiriya, the royal city of Kandy, the tea country, the leopards of Yala and the colonial charm of Galle – the five experiences almost every traveller comes for.

The whole south-west coast in a day from Negombo: a mangrove boat safari on the Madu River, a turtle hatchery, the ramparts of Galle Fort and a swim at Unawatuna.

See Sri Lanka the local way – from the back (or the driver's seat) of a tuk-tuk! Travel back roads from Kandy through tea country to the south coast, stopping in villages and at viewpoints most tourists never see. Choose a local tuk-tuk captain or drive yourself after a training session (local permit arranged).

Our signature journey is the complete Sri Lanka experience in two unhurried weeks. You will climb the Sigiriya rock fortress, cycle among the ruins of Polonnaruwa, watch wild elephants gather in Minneriya and attend the evening ceremony at Kandy's Temple of the Tooth.

The classic backpacker route with the hassle taken out: we book your hostels and guesthouses, reserve train seats, arrange key transfers and a safari, and give you a local SIM and 24/7 WhatsApp support – you travel independently by train, bus and tuk-tuk at backpacker prices.

Escape Colombo for a day on the south coast: Madu River boat safari, turtle hatchery, the UNESCO-listed Galle Fort and a swim in Unawatuna.