Polonnaruwa
The ancient capital of the kings
Travel back in time as you explore the world heritage site preserved by UNESCO. This historic ground once served as the capital of the island during the 11th to 13th centuries. Tour guides’ expertise in history will tailor a tour for you to discover the temples, stone carvings, and ruins of royal palaces.
Go for a private sunset experience, guided cycling tours, and exclusive food experiences near the ruins for a unique and unforgettable experience.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
There are many spacious archaeological parks with a quiet atmosphere in Polonnaruwa. This is a perfect itinerary for a custom travel plan compared to other tourist spots. You are free to explore everything at your own pace and dive deep into learning the ancient legacies of Sri Lanka.
The easiest way to get there
Bespoke travel companies are devoted to arranging private vehicles for you to travel in comfort. This is the most convenient method. There are also buses and trains that you can use if you are looking for something on a budget. First-class train compartments and luxury bus services will make travelling easy. Polonnaruwa is 5 hours from Colombo and 3 hours from Sigiriya. So you can plan the next stop accordingly.
Kandy
The cultural capital of the hills
Kandy is nestled in the central highlands of Sri Lanka. It is a city soaked in the traditions and spiritual beliefs of locals. Visiting the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a must on any traveller’s bucket list. With the help of a private tour guide, you can experience deep spirituality with the backing of historical facts. If you travel during the season, you can even get the ultimate opportunity to witness the traditional Kandy Perahara from a front-row seat reserved just for you.
Exclusive access to the Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens will let you explore the beautiful diversity of lush green trees and the understory intensely. With the help of a botanist, it will add more richness to your visit.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Kandy is a combination of sacred places, nature, and colonial charm. With the help of a local expert, the visit can be made into a unique experience according to your interests in culture, art, and spirituality.
The easiest way to get there
There are luxury train rides in first-class compartments from Colombo to Kandy. You can also book a private car transfer, which will give you a glimpse of scenic hillsides and mountains. Direct buses are also available on this route.
Nuwara Eliya
The colonial elegance
This beautiful city is also referred to as “Little England” because of its British Colonial architecture. It offers cool weather throughout the year. With lush tea estates and unique buildings, it gives more of a feeling of England.
If you are looking for an ultimate tea experience here during your bespoke holidays, The Heritance Tea Factory is highly recommended. It is a converted 19th-century tea factory that offers luxurious stays with immersive tea experiences. You can pluck your own leaves and learn how tea is made, graded, and brewed. This is a hands-on experience at its finest.
Haggala Botanical Garden is another beautiful place to explore in Nuwara Eliya. You can see many endemic tree species and a lovely collection of flowers. If you are in the mood for strawberries, there are plenty of strawberry farms like Adma Agro Strawberry Farm and Simply Strawberries by Jagro. These farms will let you pick and take some strawberries home, and have many dishes made from strawberries to taste.
For a great farm experience, take a tour of Ambewela Farms. You will get to explore the behaviour and life of different animals, peek into the processing of dairy products, and sip a glass of fresh hot milk in the cold weather.
Nuwara Eliya is a place full of destinations and beauty. Choosing where to go depends on what you really love.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
With the cool climate and colonial landscapes, this destination is ideal for slow and indulgent travel. You can explore nature, colonial history, farming, and tea culture. It is also an excellent place to choose if you are looking for a luxury and peaceful stay.
The easiest way to get there
A scenic drive from Kandy for about 3-4 hours, or a luxury train ride, can easily get you there. Helicopter rides are also available for visitors who have tight schedules, but still want to explore more of the island.
Adam’s Peak
A sacred journey
Adam’s Peak, or Sri Pada, is a spiritual mountain climbed by religious pilgrims and travellers. The hike begins before dawn to witness the beautiful sunrise from the summit above. This is a very unique and powerful experience. With the help of a private guide, you can learn about the significance of this mountain to Buddhists, Christians, Hindus, and Muslims. This hike has to be taken slowly and silently, as there are certain rituals performed by the pilgrims along the way.
The journey is a little long, but there are tea shops and resting places to take a break as you ascend to the top of the mountain. The hike will take 3-4 hours, depending on which trail you choose. Climbing up through the town of Hatton and down through Ratnapura is the shortest possible route.
There are quiet and peaceful holiday bungalows and villas around this destination for you to stay in before and after the climb. The gourmet meals and the warm hospitality will help you recover.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
For those who are looking for a spiritual escape and a peaceful mind relaxation, Adam’s Peak will offer you a meaningful journey. With a supporting and understanding guide, it will add more value to the entire journey. It is certainly a very comfortable journey.
The easiest way to get there
The location can be reached by a private vehicle from Nuwara Eliya or Kandy. You can also take the train to Hatton and then take a short bus trip to Nallathanniya (Dalhousie) from there. Keep in mind that these buses are not available at night. You can also take a tuk-tuk ride instead.
The best bespoke travel companies will offer pick-ups, porters, and the best night stays near the location.
Ella
A perfect getaway
Ella is a small, beautiful village surrounded by mountains, tea plantations, and lush green forests. There are also hiking trails and the Ravana waterfall to enjoy. Ella Rock and Little Adam’s Peak are perfect hiking spots. The hike gets much more interesting with a private naturalist.
There are plenty of restaurants and hotels in the middle of its city where you can enjoy a variety of authentic and international food dishes. You can also experience inner peace by joining a yoga session, or get an adrenaline rush with gripping outdoor experiences.
There are many different activities that you can do in Ella. If you want to expand the trip further, you can take a short trip to the Nine Arches Bridge, Bandarawela, or Badulla.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Ella is an ideal mix of nature, wellness, and adventure. If you are looking for a space to enjoy all of the mentioned, look no further. There are custom hiking routes that you can take and wellness programs you can participate in to make your bespoke holidays more valuable.
The easiest way to get there
The famous train ride from Kandy to Ella is highly recommended. But if you prefer private rides, the bespoke travel planners can reserve the premium vehicle services for you. But the trains on this route are well-maintained and come with comfortable seats, observation decks, and sleeperettes. The choice is yours!
Yala
The wildest heart on the island
Yala is a haven for all wildlife enthusiasts. It is one of the national parks chosen by most tourists. The park is home to over 44 mammal varieties and 215 bird species. It also has the world’s highest density of leopards. People believe that the Yala safari is one of Asia’s most exciting safari experiences. There are many luxury eco-lodges and glamping tents with all the amenities for your comfort.
You can book a private jeep with an expert guide to give you the best chance to spot leopards and other animals that you barely get to see.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Yala offers exclusive wildlife encounters and the opportunity to experience the life of animals in their natural habitats. The safari services are also high-end and arranged for your comfort. You can also get the experience of camping in a safe and comfortable environment.
The best bespoke travel companies will ensure your experience is memorable and epic.
The easiest way to get there
You can hire a private vehicle from Downsouth or Ella, which will take around 3-4 hours. Buses are a bit more complicated, so it’s best to use a vehicle.
Galle
Colonial elegance on the seaside
Galle is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with buildings belonging to the Dutch era. There are beautiful locations, stunning beaches, art galleries, museums, and boutique shops all over the city. You can enjoy private heritage walks, sunset cruises, and seafood experiences piloted by an expert guide.
There are many restored mansions, luxury villas, and private beachfront properties where you can stay. Enjoy surfing through the waves, make unique artwork at a workshop, and get a curated art tour while in Galle.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Galle is a mixture of colonial charm and modern appeal. It is an ideal destination for travellers who enjoy culture, art, and coastal life.
The easiest way to get there
Galle is 2 hours away from Colombo via the scenic coastal train ride. It takes less than that if you hire a private vehicle and make it through the Southern Expressway. There are buses available from Colombo that reach Galle through the highway as well.
Arugam Bay
For surfers and beach lovers
Arugam Bay is not just famous because it’s a beach. It is famous for its waves. There are a few famous spots for aspiring surfers with plenty of waves for them to conquer. It is a great opportunity to step out of daily life and catch some sun. It is also one of the best places to get private surfing lessons, go on wildlife explorations, and get some seafood-focused experiences during your stay.
There are stylish beach bungalows and private villas with all the facilities and comforts. You can also taste different dishes from the small restaurants and hotels by the beach. This less crowded location will let you enjoy the beach holiday to the fullest.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
The destination offers more privacy, nature, and a relaxing atmosphere. It is a perfect getaway for luxury travellers who are looking for a less crowded beach area. It also has many boutique hotels and villas where you can spend the days at ease.
Arugam Bay is also an ideal place for surfers. The waves are easy, and even beginners can give it a go.
The easiest way to get there
If you are planning to go to Arugam Bay, it is recommended to list it after Ella or Yala. It will only take 3-4 hours from these two locations. The bus is the easiest travel method. There are no direct trains to Arugam Bay. You can also hire a private vehicle to go there.
Jaffna
The Northern cultural tapestry
Jaffna offers a completely different culture and experience to its visitors. There are many places in Jaffna to explore. Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil, KKS Beach, Nagadeepaya, and Jaffna Fort are some of the iconic locations. You can also explore colonial-era buildings, including churches.
The food is completely different from what you will taste in other areas. Jaffna has a unique taste, tangled with Tamil and Indian culture. You can visit one of the local homes to experience their food culture authentically.
There are opportunities where you can visit the small villages and get connected to the locals. This will give you the opportunity to learn more about their culture and beliefs.
Private guides will help you fill up the language gap, opening doors for you to witness their traditional crafts, costumes, and music, which are completely different from the rest of Sri Lanka.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Jaffna can be a great opportunity for travellers who are more into exploring different cultures and food. The destination’s charm lies in its genuineness and cultural depth. With the help of the best bespoke travel companies, you can experience the best that Jaffna has to offer.
Beaches, food, culture, great places to stay, and good people. Jaffna has so much to offer its visitors.
The easiest way to get there
Jaffna is easy to get to from Colombo. There are direct buses and trains. It will take about 6-8 hours with these transport methods. You can book private vehicles and they will take fewer hours to reach the destination.
Trincomalee
East coast serenity
Trincomalee is famous for its sandy beaches, calm and clear waters and relaxed surroundings. You can enjoy snorkelling and diving in private sessions at Pigeon Island. Whale watching is also popular here. If you are someone who loves culture, a visit to Koneswaram temple would be worth it.
There are many beaches with fewer people that you can visit. Most of them are unspoiled. Many luxury beachfront resorts and villas are available to offer you a pleasant stay. Overall, Trinco is an ideal place for a quiet, extended stay focused on marine life.
Why is it ideal for bespoke holidays?
Trinco brings a calm atmosphere in different seasons (May-September). The unique beauty and gentleness make it a hidden gem for a bespoke holiday at the beach. It is a perfect and highly recommended destination for couples, wellness seekers, and families that seek serenity.
The easiest way to get there
This is a 6-7 hour drive from Colombo in a private vehicle. There are luxury bus services directly from Colombo to Trincomalee. Best bespoke travel companies also offer private seaplane transfers if you are looking for quick and luxurious transportation.
What is the best time to travel to Sri Lanka?
Sri Lanka can be recognised as a year-round travel destination. But if you are considering bespoke holidays with visits to multiple locations, choosing the best season to travel is key. It will ensure comfort, accessibility, and a memorable experience.
Sri Lanka experiences two distinct monsoon patterns. This means while one part of the island is rainy, the other remains dry and sunny. This will allow you to plan a bespoke holiday by choosing the right region.
Under this ideal weather, the best time to travel to Sri Lanka is generally between December and April. The central, southern, and western regions are dry and perfect for exploring during these months.
May to September is the best season if you plan to include eastern or northern regions in your travel itinerary. This is when these coastal areas are at their best, with calm seas and minimal rainfall.
Discuss with the best bespoke travel companies and create a perfect plan that will be ideal for your travel destinations and time frame.
Plan your ultimate Sri Lanka adventure with Sesatha Travel
If you are dreaming about a journey that reflects your pace, tastes, and desires, a bespoke holiday is the perfect way to discover Sri Lanka. Unlike the group tours with fixed destinations, bespoke travelling allows you to explore the island on your own terms. With cultural experience, private access, and personalised packages, you can get the best out of your bespoke holidays.
Whether it is for relaxation or adventure, bespoke holidays offer the greatest freedom and flexibility to turn every moment into an unforgettable memory.
At Sesatha Travel, we specialise in creating unique bespoke travel experiences for discerning travellers. Our experts combine their deep knowledge about the island with standards of service to design seamless, luxurious, and unique itineraries.
We believe the heart of bespoke holidays lies in authenticity. That is why we spend more time understanding your personality and preferences individually. Whether you are travelling alone or as a family, your holiday in Sri Lanka will add a personal touch to your memories.
Let us take out the stress of planning your Sri Lanka bespoke holidays and replace it with comfort and care. At Sesatha Travel, luxury isn’t just about where you stay. It’s about your feelings throughout the entire journey on this beautiful island.
Reach out to begin planning your bespoke Sri Lankan adventure with Sesatha Travel. Let’s turn your perfect holiday into a reality.