Compare Sri Lanka Photography Holiday by Creative Escapes vs Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group, 2022 2023 Small Group by Insight Vacations

DAYS 1 & 2 : COLOMBO

On arrival to your Sri Lanka photography holiday, we whisk you straight off for some rest and recuperation at our luxury private hideaway, The Walawwa, a hip refurbished colonial house set in stunning 4-acre gardens just outside Colombo. Unwind into your holiday with a dip in the 16-metre pool, or catch some zzz’s in one of the sunkissed hammocks, then later grab your camera for the first session on camera basics, all in non-techy language.

Next day, we try out our new found skills at the nearby fishing port of Negombo, shooting the colorful catamaran fleet of large-sailed or was boats returning with their catch of ocean fish, crab and lobster, providing ample temptation to tuck into some of the island’s finest seafood for dinner. Yum.

DAYS 3 & 4 : KANDY & DAMBULLA

Considered to be one of the finest train journeys in the world, this morning we board the train with the locals and spend 3 hours climbing through stunning tropical plantations, jungle waterfalls and rolling valleys up to Kandy, the hill capital of Sri Lanka.

We’ll take a hike through the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens to shoot the majestic Javan fig tree, dressed in scores of fruit bats, before a dusk visit to Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist shrine, The Temple of the Tooth.

The next day, at our mountain retreat hotel – set in over 50 acres of organic farmlands, with long, lush views over forested hills and the Mahaweli river snaking through the valley below – we’ll build on our new skills, exploring techniques used by professional photographers to shoot still life, interiors and architecture.

Today, we visit one of Sri Lanka’s most important temples, at Dambulla, with over 2 kilometers of murals in a temple underneath a majestic 160m rock. A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, with its five sanctuaries, is the largest, best-preserved monument in Sri Lanka. Outside, 157 statues, incredible sweeping vistas; chance to generate some incredible imagery for your collection.

DAY 5: ELLA

Next morning ,we board the mountain train, and head south, journeying at a leisurely pace through the heartland of Sri Lanka’s hill country, and chance to shoot incredible landscapes of hill stations, carpeted tea plantations, mountain ranges, plus railway life as we stop off at rural stations to stock up on sweet tea and snacks.

This is a traveling classroom, our team roaming the carriages helping you craft fine art landscapes of these ever-shifting vistas, giving individual tuition on tripod use, composition, styling and impact. You’ll even get chance to shoot some people; we’ve plenty of tips to make those images sing too.

After a long day’s photographing, we relax in the canopied jungles of Ella, everyone’s favorite hill country village. We’ll have a review of the finest of the day, and get chance for a walk through tea plantations to temples, waterfalls and viewpoints.

DAYS 6 & 7 : YALA & TANGALLE

It’s only a short hop to Yala from here, so early we’ll board our 4×4 elevated Jeep, and entering the realms of the leopard, crocodile and sloth bear at Yala National Park, touring at speed to capture nature in the wild. Monkeys crashing through the trees in this vast region of dry woodland and open patches of grasslands; with elephants and crocodiles ambling about and cunning leopards sliding like shadows through the undergrowth. This the Jungle Book brought to glorious life – and enormous fun.

Later, we’ll review our best images of the day on our big screen by the pool at Tangalle, then kick back and relax beachside, enjoying a glass of something cold. Next day is a you day, chance to take a breath and enjoy some seclusion on Sri Lanka’s southernmost shores overlooking the Indian Ocean.

Beach-blessed Tangalle is the go-to place for laid-back, forget-about-everything lounging.

DAY 8: GALLE

This morning, we’ll take a look at the masters of portrait photography, and understand how to craft people images with impact, before venturing inland to the world-renowned 140-year-old Handunugoda Tea Estate, where you’ll learn about the plantation history and try out documentary & portrait photography – right in the plantations where they make the world’s most expensive and renowned Ceylon Virgin White Tea. Later, we’ll capture stunning architecture shots in the grounds of historic Galle Fort – a World Heritage site and Sri Lanka’s most perfectly preserved colonial town – where time-warped streets lined with historic Dutch villas sit hidden behind enormous ramparts. Late afternoon, we shoot fishermen at Unawatuna, a picturesque bay with ramshackle charm, then come evening dine out in one of the many candle-lit cafes strewn along the horseshoe-shaped beach.

DAYS 9 & 10: COLOMBO

We’ll slowly make our way north, and discover the delights of Colombo, before editing down all of your best images of the week, and get ready for our final night pop-up exhibition in the grounds of the hotel – first a cocktail reception, then a gourmet dinner to celebrate all our exploits.

Next morning, chance to get some final 1-on-1 feedback from your professional tutors on your progress emerging style and tips on where next to take your photography. Before lunch, we sadly say our farewells, exchange email addresses with new found friends (and creative collaborators) – chance to reflect on 10 days on world-famous trains, adventure-laden safaris, stilt fishermen, World Heritage sites and the fine taste of the world’s most expensive cuppa.

Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka. A land of historic ruins, sweeping beaches and mouth-watering food, you’ve made it to paradise. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel, the Taj Samudra, Colombo. A contemporary, luxury build situated on the seafront, it provides an idyllic ambience at sunset. Unwind and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow travellers and Travel Director at 19:00, for a Welcome Dinner with drinks.

Day 2: Explore Colombo

There’s no better way to get to know a city than to walk through its back streets and experience it like a local. In the morning, head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the city's hidden treasures. Journey through a myriad of buildings that date back from 17th century and were erected mostly during Dutch and British rule. Visit Pettah Market, where locals head to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, garments and jewellery. This market place is older than the buildings around it and an area best explored with a local. Later, board your customised tuk-tuk and head out to explore the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in Colombo's oldest neighbourhoods. Cruise the city streets as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean and the city lights spring to life around a pulse of evening activity.

Day 3: Welcome to the Jungle Relaxed Start

After breakfast, begin your journey to Wilpattu National Park. A unique complex of over fifty wetlands and gravel roads that trace watering holes, the perfect place to observe wildlife. On arrival, check into your luxury safari camp located on the boarder of the park, a quintessential glamping experience and a satisfying blend of comfort and nature. Enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. In the evening, venture deep into the thick wilderness. Explore the park by jeep safari, taking the back roads in search for Sri Lanka's big four—leopards, elephants, sloth bears and deer.

Day 4: Jungle Safari

Enjoy journeying through the jungle on your morning and afternoon safaris. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, buffalos, mongooese and turtles.

Day 5: Wilpattu to Sigiriya

In the morning head south, making your way to Sigiriya. Stop on your journey at the Anuradhapura temple complex, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, sprawling and with a rich collection of archaeological wonders. Now a World Heritage site, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its ancient ruins with your Travel Director. Meet a practicing Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour of the Ritigala jungle’s enveloped paths. Hear the tales and secrets of the forest dwelling monks that once inhabited the reserve. Begin your gradual ascent, making your way through seemingly endless paths and flights of carved stairs. This was once a place of meditation, congregation, teaching and general life for a monastic community who today devote their lives to simple living in the forest.

Day 6: Exploring Sigiriya's Ancient Kingdom

Surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is steeped in history. Explore Sigiriya with Insight Choice. Choose to climb Sigiriya Rock.  Alternatively, visit Sigiriya Botanical Gardens. Later, visit the historic city of Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms. During a tuk-tuk ride, explore the ancient remains of temples and tombs. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Colourful Caves and Rainforests

Today you’ll visit the colourful Dambulla Caves. Also known as the Golden Temple caves, this World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Take in its mighty artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha as you explore with your group. S Stop at Tamarind Gardens for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This local farm has been working to supply community members with access to clean water, nutritional food, and supports the village towards a sustainable future. Later, arrive in Kandy. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest and tea plantations, this sacred city if famous for its Buddhist sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth shrine. Once here you’ll enjoy a cultural evening of drums and a dance performance. Your accommodation for the evening is, Mahaweli Reach. Located next to the mighty Mahaweli River, this traditional hotel is based in the hill capital of Sri Lanka and offers incredible culture, history and authentic dining options.

Day 8: Tea Country Hills Relaxed Start

In the morning head to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of Buddha is located here.Later meet Rahju, a local artist, at his contemporary art gallery. Enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea. Continue to Nuwara Eliya. A city in Sri Lanka’s tea country hills, this pretty destination is famous for Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu shrine and Galway’s Land National Park. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration. Learn to cook Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine with a local chef, before indulging in the fruits of your hard work.

Day 9: Exploring Nuwara Eliya

Rise early this morning for an excursion to Horton Plains for a trek to World's End, where a stunning escarpment that plunges 880 metres down to the jungle floor. World’s End is situated in one of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka and is the only one where you can are able walk freely as there are no elephants. Stand in awe and capture incredible views of the expansive plateau, before mist and cloud obscure the scene. In the afternoon, learn everything there is to know about Ceylon tea during a visit to a tea plantation and garden. Walk through the plantation during plucking time and spend time with a tea plucker to learn about their life, before enjoying a tasting session hosted by an expert. In the evening, toast to your travels with your new friends over a Celebration Dinner at your hotel.

Day 10: Goodbye Colombo

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers, as your journey comes to an end. You’ll be driven back to Colombo airport for your onward flight. A stop will be made in Colombo for those extending their stay.