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Sri Lanka & Maldives
Asia · Destination management

Sri Lanka & Maldives

One island of heritage and hill country, one of overwater calm — a twin-centre made for GCC travellers.

Represented by Steuart Holidays
At a glance

Sri Lanka & Maldives at a glance

Sri Lanka and the Maldives sit barely four and a half hours from Dubai, yet between them they cover almost every brief a GCC agent receives: ancient citadels, misty tea country and wildlife safaris on one island, and barefoot-luxury resort stays on the other. Through our representation of Steuart Holidays — the travel arm of Sri Lanka's oldest mercantile house — Byond Borders gives agents a single Dubai desk for ground programmes across Sri Lanka, with Maldives stays and extensions packaged to order. Short flights, year-round coastline and strong honeymoon and family product make this pairing one of the most dependable sellers in the region.

Gateway
Colombo (CMB); Malé (MLE) for Maldives stays
Best season
West/south coast & hill country Dec–Apr; east coast May–Sep; Maldives at its driest Dec–Apr
Flying from the GCC
approx. 4–4.5 hrs from Dubai to Colombo or Malé
Visas
Sri Lanka uses an online ETA/eVisa for most nationalities; the Maldives grants a 30-day visa on arrival — confirm current requirements for your client's nationality with our team.
Represented by

Steuart Holidays

The on-the-ground partner behind every Sri Lanka & Maldives itinerary we package.

Steuart Holidays is the travel brand of George Steuart Travel, a wholly owned subsidiary of George Steuart & Co. — established in 1835 as the first mercantile establishment of Sri Lanka. That heritage matters in practice: the travel operation draws on over 47 years of industry expertise of its own, backed by one of the island's most storied commercial names. From its head office on Galle Road in Colombo 03, the team operates ground programmes across the whole island.

The portfolio spans set round trips — cultural, wildlife, adventure, luxury and honeymoon itineraries — alongside fully tailor-made tours, hotel sourcing from five-star to budget, MICE and destination weddings, and transfers. A dedicated agents and partnerships programme seeks stable, long-term relationships with travel partners worldwide, which is exactly the footing on which Byond Borders represents them in the GCC.

For GCC clients, the published range covers the briefs that matter most: a dedicated honeymoon programme, a wellness-led relaxation getaway, family-friendly classic circuits and soft-adventure itineraries — all organised with private air-conditioned vehicles and English-speaking chauffeur guides on the tours where inclusions are published. Maldives arrangements are not part of Steuart's published product; extensions across the water are packaged to order through our Dubai desk.

Travel arm of George Steuart & Co., est. 1835Over 47 years of travel industry expertiseHead office in Colombo 03, Sri LankaDedicated agents & partnerships programmeTailor-made tours, MICE & weddings capability
www.steuartholidays.com
Key packages

Key Sri Lanka & Maldives packages

Steuart Holidays's programmes, packaged with our rates and support for GCC agents. Open a package for its day-by-day itinerary, then enquire for rates and tailor-made variations.

Signature tours

5 packages

Classic Tour Of Sri Lanka

13 nights / 14 days
ColomboDambulla & SigiriyaKandyNuwara EliyaYalaSouth West Coast
  • Cultural Triangle in full: Dambulla Golden Cave Temple and the climb up Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Minneriya jeep safari in search of wild elephants, with 'The Gathering' possible in July and August
  • Horton Plains trek to World's End and Baker's Falls, then the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella
  • Four nights on the South West Coast to close, with Galle Fort and whale watching within reach
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Arrival - Colombo

    Airport transfer to Colombo and a city tour taking in colonial and modern architecture, closing with a sunset and a cocktail.

  2. Day 2

    Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage - Dambulla Cave Temple

    Watch the elephants bathe in the river at Pinnawela, then continue to Dambulla's Golden Cave Temple, carved out of a gigantic magma plug and filled with sculptures and frescoes.

  3. Day 3

    Minneriya National Park - Sigiriya Rock Fortress

    Jeep safari at Minneriya in search of wild elephants, followed by the climb up the 600-foot Sigiriya Rock Fortress and its famous cloud maiden frescoes.

  4. Day 4

    Village trek - Spice garden

    An authentic village trek with a catamaran crossing and bullock cart ride, then a spice garden visit with a cooking demonstration covering pepper, cardamom, vanilla, cloves and nutmeg.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy city tour - Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic

    Peradeniya Botanical Garden and its orchid collection, then the evening puja at the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic to offer flowers and prayers to the sacred relic.

  6. Day 6

    Ramboda Falls - Nuwara Eliya city tour

    Stop at Ramboda Falls en route, then tour Nuwara Eliya, 'Little England', with its Tudor housing from the fading era of the British.

  7. Day 7

    Horton Plains - train ride - Nine Arches Bridge

    Trek Horton Plains to World's End and Baker's Falls, roughly 9 km over about 3.5 hours, then take the scenic train from Nanu Oya to Ella and visit the Nine Arches Bridge.

  8. Day 8

    Ella Rock - Yala

    Climb Ella Rock before continuing to Yala.

  9. Day 9

    Yala National Park - beach stay

    Jeep safari at Yala National Park, then transfer to a South West Coast beach resort.

  10. Days 10-13

    Beach stay, South West Coast

    Leisure days on the coast, with optional excursions to Galle Dutch Fort, a turtle hatchery, a boat ride in Bentota or whale watching in Mirissa.

  11. Day 14

    Departure

    Breakfast and airport transfer.

Included
  • Private tour in an air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Entry fees for the attractions described in the itinerary
  • Jeep hire at the national parks
  • Meal plan as stated
  • Train tickets from Nanu Oya to Ella (subject to availability)
Optional extras
  • Galle Dutch Fort
  • Turtle hatchery
  • Boat ride in Bentota
  • Whale watching in Mirissa
  • Water sports
First-time visitorsFamiliesCulture and wildlife

Sri Lanka In Style

13 nights / 14 days
ColomboHabaranaKandyNuwara EliyaGalleBentota
  • Climb the rock fortress of Sigiriya
  • Stay in a colonial-style tea planter's bungalow
  • Explore the old town of Galle Fort
  • Relax by the beautiful beach in Bentota
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Colombo

    Airport arrival and transfer to Colombo, a historic port city where colonial architecture sits alongside modern development.

  2. Day 2

    Habarana

    Travel through the countryside to Habarana, known for its lake and landscape vistas.

  3. Day 3

    Sigiriya and Dambulla

    Climb the fifth-century rock fortress and its palace ruins, then visit the Dambulla Cave Temple with its 150-plus Buddha images.

  4. Day 4

    Polonnaruwa and Minneriya

    Explore the ruins of the medieval capital, then a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park for elephant viewing.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy

    Travel to the cultural heart of Sri Lanka, set in the hill country.

  6. Day 6

    Kandy city tour

    Peradeniya Botanical Garden, the lakeshore and the markets, with an evening visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

  7. Day 7

    Hill country train to Nuwara Eliya

    A scenic train ride through the tea plantations to 'Little England'.

  8. Day 8

    Nuwara Eliya

    Explore the tea country, with the option of the Adam's Peak pilgrimage or a round of golf.

  9. Day 9

    Galle

    A coastal drive past fishing villages to Dutch colonial Galle.

  10. Day 10

    Galle and whale watching

    Explore the Fort, with optional cycling tours or whale watching between November and April.

  11. Day 11

    Bentota

    Transfer to the beach resort at Bentota.

  12. Days 12-13

    Bentota

    Beach relaxation, water sports, turtle hatchery visits and dining.

  13. Day 14

    Departure

    Airport transfer for the departure flight.

Optional extras
  • Adam's Peak pilgrimage
  • Golf at Nuwara Eliya
  • Cycling tour in Galle
  • Whale watching
  • Turtle hatchery
Luxury travellersHoneymooners

Wildlife Experience

12 nights / 13 days
ColomboSinharajaTissamaharamaUdawalaweKitulgalaHabarana & Kalpitiya
  • Four national parks across one itinerary: Bundala, Yala, Udawalawe and Minneriya
  • Bird-watching trails in the Sinharaja UNESCO reserve and the Makandawa rain forest patch
  • Dolphin watching off Kalpitiya, plus the Anawilundawa wetland
  • Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary and a closing stay in the fishing town of Negombo
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Arrival - Colombo

    Airport pickup, with a city tour in the evening and an overnight stay in Colombo.

  2. Day 2

    Colombo - Sinharaja

    Proceed to Sinharaja, with an evening bird-watching trail at the UNESCO heritage site, home to some 130 bird species.

  3. Day 3

    Sinharaja - Tissamaharama - Bundala

    Tour Tissamaharama, then a jeep safari at Bundala National Park, 6,216 hectares of dry scrubland and lagoons.

  4. Day 4

    Yala National Park - leisure

    An early jeep safari at Yala with a packed breakfast; the evening is at leisure.

  5. Day 5

    Leisure - Yala National Park

    The day is at leisure, followed by an evening jeep safari at Yala.

  6. Day 6

    Tissamaharama - Udawalawe

    Bird watching at Tissa Tank en route, then an evening jeep safari at Udawalawe, 31,800 hectares known for its large elephant herds.

  7. Day 7

    Udawalawe - Kitulgala

    An early morning safari, then on to Kitulgala, the white-water rafting base, with bird watching in the evening.

  8. Day 8

    Makandawa Rain Forest

    Bird watching at the Makandawa Rain Forest patch, with the rest of the day at leisure.

  9. Day 9

    Kitulgala - Habarana - Minneriya

    Proceed to Habarana, with an evening jeep safari at Minneriya National Park and its ancient tank.

  10. Day 10

    Habarana - Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary - Kalpitiya

    Visit the Sigiriya Bird Sanctuary en route, then proceed to Kalpitiya.

  11. Day 11

    Kalpitiya dolphin watching - Anawilundawa wetland

    Dolphin watching with a packed breakfast, followed by an evening visit to the Anawilundawa wetland.

  12. Day 12

    Kalpitiya - Negombo

    Explore the Negombo fishing village, the lagoon, the fish auction, the Dutch fort and the Catholic church.

  13. Day 13

    Departure

    Airport transfer after breakfast.

Wildlife enthusiastsBirdersPhotographers

Adventure Tour

12 nights / 13 days
NegomboHabaranaKitulgalaNuwara EliyaSinharajaMirissa & Colombo
  • White-water rafting the Kelani River at Kitulgala, level 2-3 rapids over some 5 km
  • Cycling tour of the Polonnaruwa ruins and an evening hike up Pidurangala rock
  • Horton Plains trek to World's End and Baker's Falls, and a full-day trek in Sinharaja rain forest
  • Early morning whale watching off Mirissa, then snorkelling or diving at Unawatuna
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Arrival - Negombo

    Airport pickup and transfer to the Negombo hotel, with the evening at leisure.

  2. Day 2

    Habarana

    Travel to north-western Sri Lanka, with an evening jeep safari through Minneriya or Kaudulla National Park.

  3. Day 3

    Cycling tour of Polonnaruwa - Pidurangala rock hike

    A bicycle tour of the ancient ruins including the Royal Palace and the Sacred Quadrangle, then an evening hike up Pidurangala rock.

  4. Day 4

    Optional hot air balloon ride (seasonal) - Kitulgala

    Taking a packed breakfast, you have the option of an early morning hot air balloon ride, before travelling on to Kitulgala.

  5. Day 5

    White-water rafting and waterfall abseiling

    Experience the thrill of rafting down the very picturesque Kelani River, with level 2-3 rapids across roughly 5 km.

  6. Day 6

    Mountain biking to Belilena ancient cave - Nuwara Eliya

    Mountain biking to the pre-historic Beli Lena caves, then continue to Nuwara Eliya.

  7. Day 7

    Early morning Horton Plains - leisure

    Trek through Horton Plains National Park, taking in Small World's End, Big World's End and Baker's Falls, around 9 km over about 3.5 hours.

  8. Day 8

    Sinharaja - leisure

    Travel to the Sinharaja rain forest, check in and rest.

  9. Day 9

    Full day trek at the forest reserve

    A full-day trek at Sinharaja, exploring trails with varying canopy coverage and endemic biodiversity.

  10. Day 10

    Mirissa - leisure

    Travel to the southern coastal beach of Mirissa, check in and take time at leisure.

  11. Day 11

    Early morning whale watching - leisure

    Take a packed breakfast and head out on a whale watching excursion, with possible sightings of blue whales, orcas and sperm whales.

  12. Day 12

    Scuba diving or snorkelling in Unawatuna - Colombo

    Snorkelling or diving on the Unawatuna reefs, then travel to Colombo for sightseeing of the museums and temples.

  13. Day 13

    Departure

    Breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight.

Included
  • Private air-conditioned vehicle with an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • All entry fees for the attractions in the itinerary
  • Jeep hire at the national parks
  • Meal plan as stated
  • Train tickets from Ella to Kandy (subject to availability)
Optional extras
  • Hot air balloon ride (seasonal)
  • Waterfall abseiling
  • Snorkelling and diving gear hire
Active travellersYoung couplesAdventure groups

North East Explorer

13 nights / 14 days
MarawilaAnuradhapuraJaffnaTrincomaleeHabarana & SigiriyaKandy & Colombo
  • City tour of Jaffna and a ferry crossing to Delft Island
  • Snorkelling at Pigeon Island National Park off Trincomalee
  • Koneswaram Temple, Kanniya Hot Wells and the Trincomalee Dutch Fort
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Arrival - Marawila

    Arrival transfer to Marawila.

  2. Day 2

    Anuradhapura

    Explore the ancient city of Anuradhapura.

  3. Day 3

    Jaffna

    Travel north to Jaffna.

  4. Day 4

    Jaffna

    Jaffna city tour.

  5. Day 5

    Delft Island

    Ferry across to Delft Island.

  6. Day 6

    Trincomalee

    Travel to Trincomalee on the east coast.

  7. Day 7

    Trincomalee

    Visit the Dutch Fort, Koneswaram Temple, Lovers Leap and the Kanniya Hot Wells.

  8. Day 8

    Pigeon Island National Park

    Excursion to Pigeon Island National Park.

  9. Day 9

    Polonnaruwa - Habarana

    Explore Polonnaruwa, then continue to Habarana.

  10. Day 10

    Sigiriya - Hiriwaduna

    Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Hiriwaduna village experience.

  11. Day 11

    Dambulla - Kandy

    Dambulla Cave Temple en route to Kandy.

  12. Day 12

    Kandy

    Kandy city tour including the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, the Botanical Garden and a cultural dance performance.

  13. Day 13

    Colombo

    Travel to Colombo.

  14. Day 14

    Departure

    Airport transfer for departure.

Repeat visitorsOff-the-beaten-track travellers

Short breaks & beach

4 packages

Sensational Sri Lanka

10 nights / 11 days
ColomboHabarana & SigiriyaKandyNuwara Eliya & HaputaleYalaWeligama
  • Two UNESCO World Heritage sites: Sigiriya Rock Fortress and the Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Hill country train journey from the tea plantations down to Haputale
  • Jeep safari in Yala National Park
  • Millennium Elephant Foundation and a village trek at Hiriwaduna
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Colombo

    Arrival in Colombo and a half-day city tour.

  2. Day 2

    Habarana

    Travel to Habarana, visiting the Millennium Elephant Foundation.

  3. Day 3

    Hiriwaduna - Sigiriya

    Village trek in Hiriwaduna, then the Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

  4. Day 4

    Dambulla - Kandy

    Dambulla Cave Temple and a spice garden, then proceed to Kandy for afternoon sightseeing.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy

    Royal Botanical Garden and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, with a cultural show.

  6. Day 6

    Nuwara Eliya - Haputale

    Travel to Nuwara Eliya via Ramboda Falls and a tea plantation, then the train journey to Haputale.

  7. Day 7

    Ella

    Day excursion to Ella, with optional visits to the Nine Arches Bridge, Little Adam's Peak and Ella Rock.

  8. Day 8

    Yala

    Travel to Yala, visiting Ravana Falls en route.

  9. Day 9

    Yala - Weligama

    Jeep safari in Yala, then travel on to Weligama.

  10. Day 10

    Weligama

    A leisure day in Weligama.

  11. Day 11

    Departure

    Departure transfer to the airport.

Included
  • Ten nights' accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Air-conditioned transport with an English-speaking guide
  • Entrance fees to the major attractions
  • Train ride
  • Yala jeep safari
  • Spice garden visit
  • Tea plantation and factory tour
Not included
  • Visa fees
  • Airfare
  • Water sports costs
  • Tips
  • Optional activities
  • Photography and videography licences
  • Personal expenses
Optional extras
  • Nine Arches Bridge
  • Little Adam's Peak
  • Ella Rock
  • Candle-lit dinner
Value-led itinerariesFamilies

Sri Lanka Quick Fix

8 nights / 9 days
ChilawHabaranaKandyNuwara EliyaWaskaduwaBentota
  • Pidurangala Rock excursion and a Minneriya National Park jeep safari
  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic with a cultural dance performance
  • Tea plantation visit with a tea-picking experience, via Ramboda Falls
  • Beach stay at Waskaduwa and a Bentota boat ride
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Chilaw

    Airport arrival and transfer to Chilaw.

  2. Day 2

    Habarana

    Elephant Foundation visit en route to Habarana.

  3. Day 3

    Pidurangala - Minneriya

    Pidurangala Rock excursion and a jeep safari in Minneriya National Park.

  4. Day 4

    Kandy

    Travel to Kandy, with a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a cultural dance performance.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy

    Kandy city tour taking in the arts and crafts, the market, the bazaar and a gem workshop.

  6. Day 6

    Nuwara Eliya

    Journey to Nuwara Eliya via Ramboda Falls and a tea plantation, with a tea-picking experience.

  7. Day 7

    Waskaduwa

    Transfer to the beach resort at Waskaduwa.

  8. Day 8

    Bentota

    Bentota boat ride.

  9. Day 9

    Departure

    Departure transfer to the airport.

Included
  • Eight nights' accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Air-conditioned transport with an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Service charges and taxes
Not included
  • Site entrance fees
  • Visa and airfare
  • Water sports costs
  • Tips and portage
  • Photography and videography licences
  • Personal expenses
Short leavesFirst-time visitors

Sri Lanka Tales

4 nights / 5 days3-star hotels
HabaranaDambulla & SigiriyaKandyNuwara EliyaColombo
  • Two UNESCO World Heritage sites in one short break: Dambulla Cave Temple and Sigiriya
  • Jeep safari at Minneriya National Park and a spice garden visit
  • Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic with a cultural dance show
  • Hill country tea factory, then a Colombo city tour with Pettah bazaar and the National Museum
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Habarana

    Arrival transfer, with a visit to the Millennium Elephant Foundation, the Dambulla Cave Temple and an evening visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

  2. Day 2

    Kandy

    Jeep safari at Minneriya National Park and a spice garden visit, then the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a cultural dance show.

  3. Day 3

    Nuwara Eliya

    Travel via the Sri Bakta Hanuman temple and Ramboda Falls, with a tea factory visit and a city tour of the hill country.

  4. Day 4

    Colombo

    City tour and shopping, taking in the clock tower, Pettah bazaar, the temples and the National Museum.

  5. Day 5

    Departure

    Checkout and airport transfer.

Included
  • Accommodation in 3-star hotels on a bed and breakfast meal plan for four nights
  • Air-conditioned car with an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Complimentary Kandy and Colombo city tours
  • Service charges and taxes
Not included
  • Site entrance fees
  • Visa fees
  • Airfare
  • Tips
  • Photography licences
  • Personal expenses
Short leavesWeekend breaks

Beach Getaway In Sri Lanka

4 nights / 5 daysFairway Colombo and Citrus Waskaduwa
ColomboWaskaduwaBentotaGalle
  • Colombo city tour with the National Museum, the Dutch period museum and the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple
  • Beach and pool time at Waskaduwa
  • Day excursion to the Galle Dutch Fort, the ancient city of Galle and the golden beachside
  • Optional turtle hatchery visit and a Madu River boat ride in Balapitiya
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Colombo

    Airport arrival and transfer to the Colombo hotel.

  2. Day 2

    Colombo - Waskaduwa

    Colombo city tour including the museums and temples, then proceed to Waskaduwa.

  3. Day 3

    Waskaduwa

    Free time at the Waskaduwa beach and pool, with an optional turtle hatchery visit in Bentota.

  4. Day 4

    Galle

    Day excursion to Galle Fort, with an optional Madu River boat ride in Balapitiya.

  5. Day 5

    Departure

    Checkout and airport transfer.

Included
  • Hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis
  • Air-conditioned car with an English-speaking chauffeur guide
  • Daily water bottles
  • Shopping discount coupons
  • Service charges and taxes
Not included
  • Site entrance fees
  • Visa and airfare
  • Tips and portage
  • Lunch unless specified
  • Optional activities
  • Personal expenses
Optional extras
  • Turtle hatchery visit
  • Madu River boat ride
Short leavesBeach breaksCouples

Special interest

5 packages

Ramayana Tour Of Sri Lanka

7 nights / 8 days
AnuradhapuraTrincomaleeSigiriya & KandyNuwara EliyaKitulgalaGalle & Colombo
  • Munneswaram Hindu temple, Koneswaram temple and Sri Muthumariamman Thevasthanam
  • Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple and the Sitha Amman Temple in the hill country
  • The ruins of Anuradhapura and a city tour of Kandy
  • Unawatuna Bay and the Rhumassala temple on the southern coast
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Anuradhapura

    Airport pickup with a visit to the Munneswaram Hindu temple en route, then transfer to Anuradhapura for the overnight stay.

  2. Day 2

    Trincomalee

    Transfer to Trincomalee, visit Koneswaram temple and explore the beach.

  3. Day 3

    Sigiriya - Kandy

    Transfer to Kandy via Sigiriya, exploring the rock fortress and visiting the Sri Muthumariamman Thevasthanam temple.

  4. Day 4

    Kandy - Nuwara Eliya

    Explore Kandy, the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and the Royal Botanical Garden, then transfer to Nuwara Eliya with stops at a tea factory and the Sri Baktha Hanuman Temple.

  5. Day 5

    Nuwara Eliya

    Explore Nuwara Eliya and visit the Sitha Amman Temple, with an optional visit to Hakgala Botanical Garden.

  6. Day 6

    Kitulgala - Galle

    Travel via Kitulgala to Galle, with optional white-water rafting.

  7. Day 7

    Unawatuna - Colombo

    Visit Unawatuna Bay and the Rhumassala temple, then travel on to Colombo in the evening.

  8. Day 8

    Departure

    Depart for the airport.

Optional extras
  • Hakgala Botanical Garden
  • White-water rafting at Kitulgala
Pilgrimage groupsFaith-based travel

Architectural Tour Of Sri Lanka

11 nights / 12 days
NegomboDambulla & SigiriyaAnuradhapura & PolonnaruwaKandyElla & MataraGalle to Colombo
  • Sri Lanka's mix of architecture, shaped by a history spanning over two and a half millennia
  • Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, Sigiriya and the Golden Cave Temple at Dambulla
  • Geoffrey Bawa's Kandalama Hotel, Lunuganga Garden at Bentota and Brief Garden at Beruwala
  • The Star Fort at Matara and the Galle Dutch Fort
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Negombo

    Arrival and leisure in Negombo.

  2. Day 2

    Negombo - Yapahuwa - Dambulla

    Negombo city tour, then the Yapahuwa Rock Fortress, before proceeding to Dambulla.

  3. Day 3

    Sigiriya - Dambulla

    Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, visit the Kandalama Hotel, and see the Golden Cave Temple in the evening.

  4. Day 4

    Anuradhapura - Polonnaruwa

    The ancient sites of Anuradhapura, followed by the medieval ruins of Polonnaruwa.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy

    Travel to Kandy, check in and take time at leisure.

  6. Day 6

    Kandy

    Kandy city tour taking in the lake, the temples and the botanical garden, with an evening visit to the Temple of the Tooth Relic.

  7. Day 7

    Nuwara Eliya - Ella

    Nuwara Eliya city tour, then proceed to Ella.

  8. Day 8

    Nine Arch Bridge - Matara

    Visit the Nine Arch Bridge, then proceed to Matara.

  9. Day 9

    Matara - Galle

    The Star Fort at Matara, then proceed to Galle.

  10. Day 10

    Galle

    Galle Dutch Fort and city tour.

  11. Day 11

    Bentota - Beruwala - Colombo

    Lunuganga Garden at Bentota and Brief Garden at Beruwala, then on to Colombo.

  12. Day 12

    Colombo - departure

    Colombo city tour and airport transfer.

Design and heritage groupsCulture-led itineraries

Honeymoon Bliss

7 nights / 8 daysUpgraded and superior accommodation at luxury hotels and beach resorts
ChilawDambulla & SigiriyaKandyKitulgalaSouth West Coast
  • Upgraded and superior accommodation at luxury hotels and beach resorts
  • Sigiriya Rock Fortress, with its water gardens, frescoes, mirror wall and summit views
  • The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and Kandy's colonial architecture
  • Optional Bentota river boat ride and a candle-lit dinner by the pool or beach
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Chilaw

    Airport pickup and transfer to Chilaw, home to the Munneshwaram Kovil, for the overnight stay.

  2. Day 2

    Dambulla

    Visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage en route, with an optional afternoon jeep safari in Minneriya National Park.

  3. Day 3

    Sigiriya

    Visit the Sigiriya Rock Fortress World Heritage site, with its water gardens, frescoes, mirror wall and summit views, followed by time at leisure.

  4. Day 4

    Kandy

    Travel to Kandy, check in and take time at leisure.

  5. Day 5

    Kandy

    Explore the colonial architecture, with an evening visit to the Temple of the Tooth.

  6. Day 6

    South West Coast

    Travel via Kitulgala, with optional white-water rafting and a visit to the 'Bridge on the River Kwai' film location, then check in at the beach resort.

  7. Day 7

    South West Coast

    A leisure day on the beach, with an optional evening boat ride on the Bentota river and a candle-lit dinner by the pool or beach.

  8. Day 8

    Departure

    Breakfast and airport departure transfer.

Optional extras
  • Minneriya jeep safari
  • White-water rafting at Kitulgala
  • Bridge on the River Kwai film location
  • Bentota river boat ride
  • Candle-lit dinner
HoneymoonersCouples

Relaxation Getaway

7 nights / 8 daysThe River House, Balapitiya (days 1-3) and Shinagawa Beach (days 4-7)
BalapitiyaMadhu RiverShinagawa Beach
  • En-suite 45-minute full body massage on arrival at The River House
  • Market visit and cookery session with the resort chefs, plus a two-hour yoga session on the river deck
  • River safari on the Madhu River through the mangroves, with cinnamon cultivation and temple stops
  • Cycle tour to the village with a local trekker, and a candlelit dinner by the pool
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Balapitiya

    Airport transfer to The River House in Balapitiya, with an en-suite massage, dinner and overnight stay.

  2. Day 2

    Market, cookery and yoga

    Breakfast, then a visit to the Balapitiya market with the resort chefs, a cooking session featuring regional cuisine and a two-hour yoga session on the river deck.

  3. Day 3

    Madhu River safari and cycle tour

    River safari on the Madhu River through the mangrove forest with stops at a cinnamon cultivation and a temple, then a cycle tour to the village guided by a local trekker, and a candlelit dinner by the pool.

  4. Days 4-7

    Shinagawa Beach

    Transfer to Shinagawa Beach by tuk tuk, with leisure time at the beach, dinner and overnight stays.

  5. Day 8

    Departure

    Breakfast and transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for departure.

Wellness travellersCouples

Colombo Casino Experience

2 nights / 3 daysStar class hotel in Colombo
Colombo
  • Evening casino visits on both nights
  • High tea at the Galle Face Hotel
  • Colombo city walk and a street food experience taking in isso wade and rotti
  • Shopping at ODEL, Cotton Collection, Barefoot and Laksala
Day-by-day itinerary & inclusions
  1. Day 1

    Colombo

    Met and greeted at Bandaranaike International Airport by the Steuart Holidays chauffeur guide and transferred to Colombo, with hotel check-in and an evening casino visit.

  2. Day 2

    Colombo

    Breakfast and poolside relaxation, then an evening exploring the city with street food and shopping, followed by a second casino visit at night.

  3. Day 3

    Departure

    After breakfast, transfer to Bandaranaike International Airport for the return flight.

City breaksWeekend groups

Sports tours

3 packages

Cricket Tour In Sri Lanka

On request
ColomboKandy & PallekeleDambullaGalleHambantota
  • Matches at famous international cricket venues, including Galle International Stadium and R. Premadasa Stadium
  • Fixtures against the best domestic teams
  • Grounds across the island: Pallekele, Rangiri Dambulla, Asgiriya, SSC, CCC, De Soysa and Mahinda Rajapaksa Stadium
Inclusions & details
Included
  • Accommodation
  • Transport
  • Cricket practice sessions
  • Meals and beverages
  • Visits to major destinations with excursions and sightseeing
School and club teamsSports groups

Golf Tour In Ceylon

On request
ColomboKandyNuwara EliyaHambantota
  • Five appealing golf courses, three of which are among the finest 18-hole courses in Asia
  • Championship venues of international standard across varied terrain
  • Rounds at Royal Colombo Golf Club, Victoria Golf & Country Resort and Shangri-La Hambantota
  • Golf combined with cultural and scenic experiences across the island
Inclusions & details
Included
  • Accommodation
  • Transport
  • Practice sessions
  • Matches against local and international players (subject to availability)
  • Access to international-grade golf courses
  • Tours to the golf venues
  • Excursions and sightseeing
  • Meals and beverages
Golf groupsIncentive travel

Netball Tour Of Sri Lanka

On request
Colombo
  • Compete against local players in the country's most sought-out netball venues
  • Matches at Torrington Grounds, Police Park Grounds, Royal College Sports Complex and Austasia Sports & Leisure Club
  • Play with and against Sri Lankan teams, M1 Asian Netball Champions in 2018
Inclusions & details
Included
  • Accommodation
  • Transport
  • Practice sessions
  • Matches against local teams at high-grade netball courts
  • Tours to the netball venues
  • Excursions and sightseeing
  • Meals and beverages
School and club teamsSports groups

This is Steuart Holidays' complete published catalogue — signature tours, short breaks, special-interest and sports programmes. Steuart operate in Sri Lanka only; Maldives resort stays and extensions are packaged to order through our Dubai desk alongside any of these tours, and every itinerary can be fully tailor-made.

Package information correct as at July 2026 — the full 17-programme catalogue — itineraries and inclusions are set by Steuart Holidays and subject to change; confirm details and rates with our team before quoting.

FAQ

Frequently asked questions

What GCC agents ask us most about Sri Lanka & Maldives.

How long is the flight from Dubai to Sri Lanka and the Maldives?

Approximately 4 to 4.5 hours nonstop from Dubai to either Colombo (CMB) or Malé (MLE), making the twin-centre one of the shortest long-haul-feel pairings available to GCC clients.

Do GCC clients need a visa for Sri Lanka or the Maldives?

Sri Lanka operates an online ETA/eVisa for most nationalities with short processing times, while the Maldives grants a 30-day visa on arrival — confirm current requirements for your client's nationality with our team before travel.

When is the best time to sell Sri Lanka?

The two monsoons affect opposite halves of the island, so some coastline is in season year-round. The west and south coasts and hill country are at their best roughly December to April, while the east coast around Trincomalee shines from around May to September.

Can I combine Sri Lanka and the Maldives in one booking?

Yes — that is exactly how we package this destination. A Sri Lanka round trip with Steuart Holidays can be paired with a Maldives resort stay or extension built to order through our Dubai desk, on a single AED invoice.

Are these tours fixed-departure or tailor-made?

Steuart Holidays publishes set itineraries without fixed departure dates, and offers fully tailor-made tours, hotel sourcing, MICE and wedding programmes — so every departure is organised around your client's dates. Quotes come through our team.

Which itineraries suit honeymooners from the GCC?

Honeymoon Bliss is Steuart's dedicated couples' programme, and the Relaxation Getaway adds a wellness angle with spa, yoga and riverside experiences. Both pair naturally with a Maldives overwater extension arranged through our desk.

Get in touch

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Tell us what your clients are after — dates, group size, style — and we'll come back with Steuart Holidays's options and our rates. Or browse all destinations.

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