Temples, Tea Trails & Elephant Safaris: Sri Lanka Tour with an Oceania Southeast Asia Voyage

Your holiday begins as you fly from the UK to your destination.

Touch down in Colombo and transfer to Negombo, a laid-back coastal town on the Indian Ocean. Settle into the Heritance Negombo for a relaxed first night, the perfect introduction to Sri Lanka’s pace before the adventure begins.

Today, you’ll journey to captivating Dambulla for a two-night hotel stay, exploring the Dambulla Cave Temple en route. A revered complex sprawled across a hill, it’s the largest of its kind in Sri Lanka.  

The intriguing medieval city of Polonnaruwa awaits. You’ll relish time to explore before delighting in a culinary experience at a local farmer’s house. In the afternoon, you’ll join an exciting jeep safari in search of elephants.

Your morning begins with an optional climb to the ancient Sigiriya Rock Fortress before heading to Kandy, where you’ll learn about fragrant spices at the Private Spice Garden and take in the golden-roofed Temple of the Tooth.

Enjoy the tranquillity of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, which is home to over 4,000 plant and tree species. Following lunch, you’ll visit Master Ruwan, a guru of the ancient Kandyan art of dancing and drumming, at his private dancing school.

Today, you’ll embark on one of the world’s most scenic train rides, alighting at Nanuoya after tracks curve past emerald tea terraces and misty highlands. From here, explore Nuwara Eliya, nicknamed ‘Little England’ for its cool climate and colonial-era charm.

You’ll begin the day by learning about the secrets of tea at a tea plantation and factory. Walk through the production process and enjoy a cup of Ceylon tea before heading to Colombo for an overnight stay.

Flying to Singapore, your holiday continues with a one-night hotel stay.

Transfer to the port and embark Riviera, Oceania Cruises’ elegant vessel that will be home for the next 12 nights. Settle into your stateroom and prepare to explore Southeast Asia in refined comfort.

Enjoy an overnight in port, with a second day to explore at your own pace. Wander Singapore’s futuristic skyline, lush gardens and world-famous street food before the ship sets sail this evening.

Disembark at Port Klang, gateway to Kuala Lumpur, where the twin Petronas Towers rise above a city blending colonial heritage with striking modern architecture. Wander colourful street markets or admire skyline views before returning on board.

Langkawi, an archipelago of jungle-clad islands fringed by white sand and turquoise water. Wander duty-free markets, ride the cable car for sweeping views, or simply relax on one of its idyllic beaches.

Phuket, Thailand’s largest island, where limestone cliffs meet powder-soft sand. Explore the Old Town’s colourful shophouses, sample fiery street food, or unwind on one of its famous beaches.

Penang, a UNESCO World Heritage island famed for its street art, colonial architecture and vibrant food scene. Wander the heritage lanes of George Town or sample some of Asia’s finest street food.

The city formerly known as Saigon, famous for its role in the Vietnam War, is now a metropolis filled with French colonial landmarks, incense-filled temples, and food stalls serving delicious bánh xèo.

Wander the streets of District 1, indulge in local flavours at Ben Thanh Market, or stroll along the Saigon River. The city’s thriving art scene, vibrant markets, and buzzing atmosphere showcase its dynamism.

Ko Samui, a tropical island of swaying palms, cascading waterfalls and white sand beaches. You could take a boat out to the hidden lagoons and dramatic rock formations of Mu Ko Ang Thong National Park, or simply relax beneath the palms.

Today your holiday ends as you disembark your ship and head to the airport for your flight home.