This isn’t the kind of trip where you fly halfway around the world just to tick off the highlights.
We’ve designed this women-only adventure to show you a side of Sri Lanka that feels deeper, slower and far more personal. Over the course of the trip, we’ll road trip our way across the island, from ancient cultural sites and misty tea country to rural villages and the southern coast, experiencing Sri Lanka through the people, food and landscapes that make this country so special.
You’ll see elephants in the wild, ride one of the most beautiful train routes in the world, hike at sunrise, pick tea leaves on a local farm, learn to cook alongside local women, bike through the countryside and have the chance to try your hand at surfing. Along the way, we’ll stay in beautiful boutique properties, including Sri Lanka’s first female-run hotel, and build in the kind of free time that lets you actually enjoy where you are instead of rushing from one activity to the next.
And because we believe in ending a trip on a very high note, we’re hopping on a flight to the Maldives.
For the final three nights, we’ll trade road trips and early mornings for an all-inclusive private island surrounded by turquoise water and white-sand beaches. Swim, snorkel, book yourself a spa treatment, grab a cocktail and do absolutely nothing if that’s what you feel like. Because when else are you going to the Maldives? You don’t need to wait for a honeymoon or a romantic vacation to experience it because the girls are going now ;)
This trip is equal parts adventure and escape, with incredible food, beautiful stays, meaningful local experiences and enough space to slow down and take it all in. Come alone, as most of our travellers do, and experience two completely different countries alongside a group of women who are just as excited to be there as you are.
This trip is designed for the 30-something to 50-ish year old women who want to step outside the ordinary. Whether you’re marking a milestone, craving adventure, or simply ready to prioritize yourself, this journey is a chance to:
Experience bucket-list moments in a safe, supportive group of women.
Travel without the stress of planning every detail.
Connect with like-minded travellers who become lifelong friends.
Please note that this is an overland style trip that will have longer days and lots of moving. If you're looking to stay put in a single spot and not move around a lot, this is not the trip for you.
On this trip we will be accompanied by a local team in Sri Lanka who will also act as our driver and guide throughout the journey. Their role is to enhance your experience in destination to ensure it's a truly memorable adventure. Our local team is knowledgeable in the landscape we travel through and our surroundings.
Our team is family to us - and our trip would not be the same without them. Please treat them that way. While we pay our guides/drivers an above average wage, gratuities at the end of the trip for them is highly encouraged.
PASSPORT
You’ll need a valid passport to travel internationally and most countries require your passport to have a minimum of 6 months validity, so remember to check the expiry date. We need your passport information to get everything ready for your trip so it’s important that the information on your booking matches your passport exactly. Please take care to provide the correct details.
VISAS & ENTRY REQUIREMENTS
Please check to see if your country's passport required obtaining a visa. This is the responsibility of the traveller and not The Girls Trip Series. We recommend you check your visa requirements for both countries as soon as you have booked your trip. This will ensure you have time to prepare your documents and for your visa application to be processed. You can check the entry requirements for your nationality on your government's foreign travel advisories.
We will cater for specific dietary requirements and allergies while travelling. Please notify your group leader of any dietary requirements in your group meeting at the start of the trip. For those suffering from particular food allergies, your group leader will endeavour to disclose to their fullest knowledge the main ingredients in dishes being consumed. It is, however, your personal responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any foods to which you are allergic.
This is an overland trip. That means you’ll be travelling with a group in a purpose-built vehicle, visiting remote communities, and getting the best possible views of Sri Lanka iconic wildlife. The drive days can sometimes feel long, but it’s as much about the journey as the destination, and half the fun is the camaraderie.
There will be many early starts either to make use of the travel days and maximize time in each destination.
This trip booking will have you placed in a shared room with another traveller. An upgrade to a single supplement is available if you’d prefer not to share a room on this trip. The single supplement applies to all nights of your trip and is subject to availability.
This trip finishes in the Maldives on day 12. We will not have any scheduled activities on departure day - please feel free to book any departing flight of your choice. Should you wish to stay and extend your trip, we offer complimentary extension planning services to all travellers
The weight of baggage that can be brought on this trip is limited by the packing space and weight restrictions of our truck. The weight limit for luggage is a maximum of 20kgs per person, plus a maximum of 5kgs for your day pack. Backpacks shouldn’t have an external frame unless it can easily be removed and stored separately to avoid damaging other people’s luggage. We strongly advise passengers to travel with a backpack or a duffel bag, and it is essential that no hard suitcases be brought on tour.
The itinerary is subject to changes. Sometimes things come up when travelling that will require us to pivot. We ask in the event of adjustments, we are met with understanding and patience.
It is mandatory that all travellers have a completed trip application form on file.
Travel insurance is compulsory on all our trips for those travelling internationally. We require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency repatriation. If you are travelling within your home country or region please confirm before travel that you are entitled to access the public medical system easily should an accident occur.We strongly recommend all travellers have a policy that also covers COVID-19, personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage or personal effects.
For international trips, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance and the insurance company's 24-hour emergency contact number has been submitted.
This trip is not a guaranteed departure and requires a minimum of 6 passengers to run. The trip will be confirmed on or before February 15th, 2027.
PARTICIPANT-INITIATED CANCELLATION. All deposits, instalments and other trip payments are non-refundable if the Participant cancels, withdraws, does not attend, arrives late or leaves early. This allocation reflects limited spaces and advance, often non-refundable commitments to suppliers. The Participant should purchase cancellation insurance.
TRANSFER TO ANOTHER PERSON. A Participant may transfer their booking to an eligible replacement. Please note it is not the responsibility of The Girls Trip Series to find your replacement.
OPERATOR CANCELLATION OR MATERIAL CHANGE. The non-refundable policy does not give the Operator an unrestricted right to keep payment for services it does not provide. If the Operator cancels the entire trip before departure or makes a material change, the Operator will provide the remedy required by the booking agreement and applicable law, which may include a comparable substitute, credit or refund.
In a mix of boutique & luxury hotels
In Air Conditioned Vehicles
Throughout Sri Lanka (Driver and Guide)
In The Maldives
Minneriya National Park
in tuk tuks
via tuk tuks
in tuk tuks
Economy class
In maldives
to local team
excursions, spending money, beverages and meals
Your Sri Lankan journey begins as you arrive in Colombo, the vibrant gateway to an island where ancient traditions, warm hospitality and contemporary creativity come together.
In the evening, gather at the hotel restaurant at 7.00 pm for a warm welcome dinner with your host and fellow travellers. This will be a relaxed opportunity to meet one another, get to know the team accompanying you and enjoy your first taste of Sri Lankan hospitality and cuisine.
Following dinner, we will have a short tour briefing and prepare for the exciting days ahead. Your host will share an overview of the itinerary, practical information, what to expect during the journey and a few useful tips to help you make the most of your time in Sri Lanka.
After breakfast, depart Colombo and begin your journey towards Sri Lanka’s cultural heartland. The drive takes you through changing landscapes as Colombo’s urban surroundings gradually give way to lush countryside, village scenery and the island’s tropical interior.
Arrive in Dambulla in time for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can enjoy a relaxed meal before continuing with the afternoon’s cultural experience. After lunch, visit the magnificent Dambulla Cave Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Sri
Lanka’s most important cultural landmarks. Set within a dramatic rock outcrop, the temple complex is home to beautifully preserved Buddhist murals, statues and centuries of religious heritage.
Continue your journey and arrive at the hotel in the late afternoon. Take some
time to settle in, relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this unique women-led hotel, where sustainability, wellness and meaningful connections are at the heart of the experience.
As the sun begins to set, you may choose to join an optional gentle sunset yoga session or simply unwind and enjoy some free time at the hotel.
Wake before sunrise for a magical morning experience at Sigiriya Rock, one of Sri Lanka’s most iconic landmarks. Rising dramatically above the jungle, this ancient citadel reveals stories of kings, artistry and ambition. Walk through the historic water gardens, admire the ancient frescoes and witness the breathtaking views from this UNESCO World Heritage Site, a truly unforgettable way to begin your day in
Sri Lanka.
After embracing this breathtaking sunrise, continue to the tranquil shores of Thalkote Lake, where a beautiful breakfast awaits. Enjoy a delicious meal beside the calm waters as reflections of the sky dance across the lake, creating a serene and unforgettable start to your day.
The afternoon brings another extraordinary encounter with nature as we venture
into Minneriya National Park, home to one of Asia’s greatest wildlife spectacles. During your safari, keep your eyes open for elephants gathering around ancient reservoirs, colourful birdlife and the incredible biodiversity that makes Sri Lanka such a treasured destination for nature lovers.
Drive time to Minneriya NP is approx. 1 hour and safari duration is approx. 03 hours.
Return to your hotel and relax after a day filled with adventure, beauty and unforgettable memories.
After breakfast, depart at 07.45 am and begin your scenic journey towards the cool, misty highlands of Nuwara Eliya. As you leave the lowlands behind, the landscape gradually transforms into rolling hills, lush tea plantations and dramatic mountain scenery.
Stop for lunch at a scenic restaurant in Ramboda, surrounded by beautiful tea country. From the restaurant, enjoy views of the spectacular Ramboda Waterfall cascading down the mountainside, creating a memorable backdrop for a relaxed lunch.
Continue to Labookellie Tea Factory, one of the oldest tea factories in Sri Lanka, for an immersive introduction to the island’s tea heritage. Meet local tea pluckers and have the opportunity to experience tea picking firsthand before taking a guided tour of the factory to discover how freshly picked leaves are transformed into the tea enjoyed around the world.
Continue onwards to Nuwara Eliya and arrive at your beautiful hotel in the afternoon. Settle into your room and take some time to relax and enjoy the cool mountain air and beautiful surroundings.
The remainder of the evening is at leisure, allowing you to unwind after the day’s journey or simply enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of Nuwara Eliya.
Enjoy a relaxed morning at your hotel, with time at leisure to enjoy the cool mountain air,
beautiful surroundings and the hotel’s facilities at your own pace. Thereafter transfer to Nanu Oya Railway Station and board the afternoon train to Ella.
Settle in for approximately 2.5 hours of scenic travel through Sri Lanka’s spectacular hill country, passing through emerald-green tea plantations, misty mountains, forests and dramatic valleys along one of the island’s most memorable rail journeys.
Upon arrival in Ella, continue to the iconic Nine Arch Bridge, one of Sri Lanka’s most photographed landmarks. Take a tuk tuk through the lush surroundings to reach the viewpoint and enjoy some time to admire the impressive colonial-era railway bridge set amidst the tropical landscape.
From Ella, continue by road to Wellawaya and your hotel, approximately 45 minutes away. Set among paddy fields, rolling countryside and peaceful village landscapes, the retreat offers a wonderful opportunity to slow down and experience a more authentic side of rural Sri Lanka.
Arrive at the hotel and settle in for a relaxing evening surrounded by the tranquillity of the countryside.
Today, experience the peaceful countryside around Wellawaya by tuk-tuk, travelling through village roads, paddy fields and beautiful rural landscapes.
Begin with a tuk-tuk village tour, taking in the simple rhythms of local life and the scenic
surroundings of Kaduruketha. The journey offers a more intimate way to experience the
countryside, away from the usual tourist routes. Continue by tuk-tuk to Ellewala Waterfall, a beautiful hidden waterfall tucked away amidst lush greenery. From where the tuk-tuks stop, a short and easy 10-minute walk will take you through the
surrounding countryside to the waterfall.
Take some time to enjoy the natural surroundings and, if you wish, take a refreshing dip in the cool waters. Afterwards, relax by the waterfall with a small snack and a chilled watermelon juice before making your way back to the tuk-tuks and returning to the hotel.
The remainder of the day is completely at leisure. Relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment, read a book or simply spend some quiet time taking in the peaceful surroundings of Kaduruketha.
In the evening, enjoy a traditional Kamatha dinner, inspired by Sri Lanka’s farming heritage and prepared using local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. Set in a rustic countryside setting, this authentic dining experience offers a wonderful way to end a relaxed day in rural Sri Lanka.
Today, leave the peaceful countryside of Wellawaya behind and journey towards Sri Lanka’s beautiful southern coast. Drive to Weligama, approximately 3 hours away, enjoying the changing landscapes as the mountains and countryside gradually give way to the palm-fringed coastline.
Arrive in Weligama and check into your beautiful hotel. Take some time to settle into your room and enjoy a little downtime at the hotel before heading out for the evening.
In the late afternoon, drive along the southern coast towards Unawatuna, stopping en route to see Sri Lanka’s iconic stilt fishermen. Set against the backdrop of the Indian Ocean, these traditional fishermen are one of the most recognisable sights of the southern coastline.
Continue to Unawatuna for a special Sri Lankan cooking experience with Karuna. Step into a more personal side of Sri Lankan cuisine as you learn about local ingredients, traditional cooking techniques and the flavours that make the island’s food so distinctive. Get involved in preparing the dishes before sitting down to enjoy the meal you have helped create.
After dinner, return to Weligama and enjoy a relaxing evening at the hotel.
Today is yours to enjoy Weligama at your own pace and enjoy a surf lesson! Whether you are stepping onto a surfboard for the first time or simply want to enjoy the waves, your lesson will be tailored to beginners. If you have experience and want a lesson tailored to your level, just let us know!
The rest of the day is completely at leisure. You are free to explore Weligama and the surrounding coastal towns independently, discovering the local cafés, restaurants, beach bars and pubs, or simply finding a quiet spot by the ocean and enjoying the slower pace of coastal life.
Today, bid farewell to Sri Lanka’s southern coast and make your way to the airport (Approx. 2.5 hours drive) for your flight to the Maldives, where the next chapter of your journey begins.
Upon arrival in the Maldives, transfer to your beautiful all-inclusive island resort and settle into your tropical surroundings. With turquoise lagoons, powder-soft beaches and endless ocean views, the Maldives offers the perfect setting to slow down and simply enjoy island life.
Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, relax on the beach, take a dip in the warm lagoon, or unwind with a refreshing drink as the sun sets over the Indian Ocean.
Wake up to the gentle sounds of the ocean and enjoy a leisurely morning in your island
paradise. With your all-inclusive stay, today is entirely yours to enjoy at your own pace.
Spend time relaxing on the beach, swimming in the crystal-clear lagoon or simply enjoying the serenity of your private island surroundings. For those seeking a little more adventure, there are opportunities to experience the Maldives beneath the surface with snorkelling, kayaking or other water activities available at the resort. Alternatively, indulge in a spa treatment and embrace the art of doing absolutely nothing.
As evening falls, enjoy a beautiful sunset before a relaxed dinner surrounded by the sounds of the ocean.
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, take a moment to reflect on the experiences that have shaped these past 11 days.
From the vibrant streets of Colombo and the ancient wonders of Sigiriya to the misty tea-covered mountains, peaceful village communities, inspiring local women, authentic culinary experiences and the golden shores of Sri Lanka’s southern coast, you have discovered the island through meaningful encounters and experiences beyond the usual highlights.
Your journey then continued to the Maldives, where turquoise lagoons, pristine beaches and the gentle rhythm of island life offered the perfect setting to unwind, reflect and celebrate everything you have experienced.
More than a holiday, this has been a journey of connection, shared laughter, new friendships, unforgettable flavours and stories that will stay with you long after you leave.
After breakfast, bid farewell to your island paradise and transfer to the airport for your onward flight home. As you leave, take with you not only beautiful memories and photographs, but a genuine connection to the people, culture and soul of Sri Lanka and a little piece of paradise from the Maldives.
Until we meet again.
For those who simply cannot bear to leave paradise, you also have the option of extending your stay at he Maldives resort and enjoying a few more days of uninterrupted island bliss.
