Journeys: Discover Sri Lanka

There’s time in Kandy, where the Temple of the Tooth guards one of Buddhism’s most sacred relics and a cultural show brings local traditions to life. The route next winds through spice gardens and lush tea plantations in the central highlands around Nuwara Eliya, with a walk in Horton Plains National Park providing a cooler contrast. Wildlife encounters follow with safaris in Udawalawe and Wilpattu national parks, the latter paired with a conservation talk to underline the delicate balance of the island’s fauna.

The group stays in a mixture of hotels, lodges and a tented camp, mostly in villages or near wildlife areas. At various points there are chances to learn from locals, be it at a coconut plantation or through a cooking demonstration. Roads are often slow, but the soft pace means plenty of time to notice small delights, like the scent of cardamom in a spice garden or the sharp tang of freshly brewed Ceylon tea. A National Geographic Expedition Leader accompanies the group throughout.

These are the places the trip visits, in order. G Adventures publishes the day-by-day itinerary on its own site.