Upon arrival in Sri Lanka you will be met and assisted by our Airport Representative, who will direct you to your very own Chauffeur. Then transfer to your hotel in Negombo, once a trading port for the Dutch and British now has been developed into a bustling modern town with a handful of reminders of its colonial past. Situated close to the international airport, it makes a convenient rest stop before heading inland to explore or before an onward flight. The wide golden sand beach is dotted with fishing boats and the inland resort road offers a selection of restaurants and bars.
Once you check in at your hotel relax and recover from any jet lag.
Overnight at Waterland Villa (Fire Villa with Private Pool)
Today proceed to Wilpattu, located on the northwest coast lowland dry zone of Sri Lanka. The unique feature of this park is the existence of "Willus" (natural lakes) - natural, sand-rimmed water basins or depressions that fill with rainwater. On arrival you will settle into your safari camp.
Later in the afternoon join a resident naturalist for a walk around the campsite, enjoying the abundant birdlife and beautiful surroundings.
Overnight at Camp in Wilpattu
Early this morning you will be taken on a safari tour of the Wilpattu National Park in a private open-air jeep. Wilpattu has re-opened after the end of the civil war and offers visitors a wonderful nature experience with fewer visitors than Yala. After being hit during the war, the wildlife numbers are now on the rise again so keep your eyes peeled for elephants, deer, wild boar, wild buffaloes, monkeys, sloth bears, crocodiles and leopards, as well as a huge variety of exciting bird and reptile life.
Return to your campsite for a late breakfast and unwind before another game drive in the late afternoon.
(Your safari will be by a private jeep and accompanied by a local naturalist on availability. Conditions of the tracks around the park differ, depending on the time of year, but generally you should expect them to be bumpy and dusty.)
Overnight at Camp in Wilpattu
Today after breakfast head north to Jaffna, far and away the largest town in northern Sri Lanka, connected to the mainland by a lagoon causeway. As a result of a 30 years’ war, Jaffna was left untouched by modernization and so much of the town is time-locked in the 50's, from the buildings to the old Morris Minor cars and there is much to discover and many un-spoilt beaches, making it perfect for those in search of sand and sun with a difference. On arrival check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Fox Jaffna (Deluxe Room)
This morning you will be taken in to a local town called Chunnakam to experience and try young Toddy. You will be offered fresh young toddy with deep fried fish to be enjoyed under Palmyra trees. The toddy will be served traditional style in a well cleaned coconut shell.
On completion take a brief city tour starting with a drive through the city centre to view Jaffna Library, which was burnt down on the night of the 31st May 1981, the Dutch Fort which was initially built by the Protuguese in 1619 and then re-built and expanded by the Dutch during the second half of the 17th & 18th centuries. You will also see the Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil which is one of the most important Hindu temples in Sri Lanka. Originally founded in 948AD, the present building dates back to the 18th Century.
Later on you will proceed to ‘Dambakolapatuna Vihara', a Buddhist site that dates back to the era of the King Dewanampiyatissa. Here the king went down chest-deep to the sea to welcome Arahant Sangamitta Thero who had sailed from India with a sapling of the holy Bo-Tree ‘Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi’ under which the Lord Buddha attained enlightenment. Afterwards move on to the ‘Keerimalai Natural Pond’ which is believed to possess miraculous curative effects. Visit the Point Pedro, also known as Sakkotai Cape, the northernmost point of Sri Lanka before heading to the town.
Overnight at Fox Jaffna (Deluxe Room)
After breakfast proceed to Trincomalee, dearly addressed as 'Trinco', located on the East Coast of the Island. The city of Trincomalee is built on a peninsula, which divides the inner and outer harbor. With clear and inviting aquamarine waters and beautiful white beaches it is an ideal location for Swimming, Wind Surfing, Scuba Diving, Fishing and Whale watching. On arrival check on to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at C Beyond Nilaveli (Deluxe Room)
Today at you convenience explore some of the below sites of Trincomalee;
Visit the Trincomalee War Cemetery is a British military cemetery in Trincomalee, for soldiers of the British Empire who were killed or died during World War II. The cemetery also has graves of Dutch, French, Italian and other allied forces. There are 303 graves in the cemetery. It is one of the six Commonwealth war cemeteries in Sri Lanka, and maintained by Sri Lankan Ministry of Defense on behalf of the Commonwealth War Graves Commission.
The Kanniya hot water springs, said to date back to King Rawana era. According to one legend, King Rawana struck the earth with his sword in several spots and these fountains sprang up. There are seven wells in square shape with only 3-4 feet of depth each. Bottoms can be clearly seen and the temperature vary from one well to another. Visitors are welcome to bathe but not allowed to use soap. The entrance is a part of Buddhist monastery and monks have used it as a part of their complex. Some ruins can be seen scattered over the area. However most of the historical artifacts were destroyed during the war.
Visit the Ford Frederick & Tirukoneswaram Temple. The Fort is a colonial fort built by the Portuguese in the 1600s, is also renowned for housing within it, the Koneswaram Temple. Later captured by a Dutch fleet, the Fort was re-created, to defend against any threats from the British and the French. Once you enter the fort through the iconic ancient archway, you are greeted by a shady oasis of century old trees planted by the Dutch. Climb up the hill inside the fort and enjoy panoramic views of the ocean, the beaches, and harbour, for miles on end. The view of Trincomalee from Fort Fredrick is quite stunning and with a little imagination will transport you back in time to an era gone by!
The old Koneswaram temple, earlier known as the temple of a thousand pillars, was located inside this fort. According to historical information, the Portuguese had demolished the old Koneswaram temple and had built this fort with it parts. Later the temple was rebuilt to its present glory. The temple is one of the five Eswaram-Sivan temples in Sri Lanka and is known as the Southern Kailasam. It is believed to be built by sage Agastyar as per the instructions of Lord Shiva who was impressed by the devotion of King Rawana.
Continue to Lovers Leap, one of the amazing tourist hotspots in Trincomalee. Located on top of Swami Rock, this vantage point commemorates the tragic end of a love affair.
Thereafter visit the Maritime and Naval History Museum, a relatively new museum as it has been in operation since 2013. Although a new addition, the museum is home to several ancient relics that go back to the days where trade relationships were just established in Sri Lanka, during the time of Marco Polo. Within the two-storey complex is a myriad of artefacts that explain how Sri Lanka, especially the port of Trincomalee, was used as an important docking point for many traders coming in from the far east.
Evening visit the Marble beach. You can spend the rest of the day at leisure or hike to the top of the Diamond hill, right next to Marble Beach.
Overnight at C Beyond Nilaveli (Deluxe Room)
Today after breakfast proceed to the second ancient capital Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage and a well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls, graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 AD to reunite the country once more under a local leader. Over the following three centuries Polonnaruwa became a thriving commercial and religious centre, reaching its zenith under King Parakramabahu I in the 12th Century.
Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Start with a visit to the Polonnaruwa Museum where you can learn about the site in more detail, before heading out to the ‘Gal Vihara’ which consists of statues of the recumbent, standing and seated Buddha have been cut from a single granite wall and rank among the true masterpieces of Sri Lankan Art. Other stops include Nissanka Latha Mandapaya which boasts well-preserved stone columns, the impressive Lankathilaka Temple and the ruined stone walls of the Royal Palace.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting Polonnaruwa ruins, with shoulders and knees covered. Have an extra pair of socks to wear to prevent from the ground heat since you have to walk barefoot.)
On completion continue to Dambulla, a small village and a central location in Cultural Triangle. The central plains area boasts ruined temples and ancient cities combined with national parks and glistening reservoirs. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Overnight at Atha Resort (Deluxe Room)
Set off this morning for Sigiriya, also known as the ‘Lion Rock’, one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. This 5th Century "Fortress in the Sky" is a UNESCO World Heritage built by King Kassapa which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The spectacular pillar of rock rise 200 meters from the scrub jungle and the base of the rock is ringed by a moat and rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens. The majestic Lion’s Paw picturesquely guards the stairway of the palace on the summit.
You might like to start with a visit to the Sigiriya Museum to learn more about the site before wandering through the vast landscaped gardens to the base of the rock. The climb to the top is steep with many steps and there are some sections where the path or staircase is very narrow with steep drops protected by fences. You will pass the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall before arriving at the massive stone lion’s paws. The old stairway to the top led through the mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of the massive proportions of the head. The summit, covering an area of 1.6 hectares, was originally completely covered by buildings, but only remains of the royal citadel can be seen today.
(We do not recommend this for those without a head for heights or the less mobile. The hike up and down again will take 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your fitness.)
Later in the evening you will be taken to enjoy a cultural dance show in nearby Habarana. The show has nine acts and lasts for around an hour. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display. You can observe the dancers getting into their traditional costumes prior to the performance and learn a few traditional dancing steps.
Overnight at Atha Resort (Deluxe Room)
This morning explore the famous Golden Rock cave temple, date back to the 1st Century BC which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. A sacred pilgrimage site for 22 centuries, this cave monastery, a vast isolated rock mass with its five caverns is the largest best preserved cave-temple complex in Sri Lanka. The Buddhist mural paintings (covering an area of 2,100 sq. meters) are of particular importance as are the 157 statues including a 47 foot long statue of the recumbent Buddha. This amazing complex was first used as a refuge by an ancient king who upon regaining his throne, commissioned magnificent images to be carved from the rock. Later kings made further improvements and the caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha painted upon the walls of which the largest is a colossal figure spanning 15 metres. The hike up to the caves is short but steep. At the top you can explore the caves and enjoy spectacular far-reaching views over the surrounding countryside.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting Dambulla temple, with shoulders and knees covered. It is a steep uphill walk to the temple approx. 15-40 mins depending on route taken and on your fitness. Have an extra pair of socks to wear to prevent from the ground heat since you have to walk barefoot.)
On completion proceed to Elkaduwa, a beautiful village located near Kandy. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Later this afternoon enjoy a guided tea factory/plantation visit. Learn all about the island’s best known crop with the inimitable Mr. Dassanayake, the estate manager for many years. Mr. Dassanayake will educate you on Ceylon Tea before you head into the tea fields to see the leaves being plucked. Walk back with the pickers to watch the leaves being weighed before a taste test in the Tea Hut.
Overnight at Ashburnham Estate (Double room)
Today after breakfast proceed to Kandy. Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic, locally known as Sri Dalada Maligawa, the most sacred temple in the whole of Sri Lanka. It is the prime monument, the supreme edifice not only of the Sinhalese Buddhist populace of Sri Lanka but also of the Buddhists all over the world. It is within this magnificent temple that the sacred Tooth relic of Buddha (Danta Dhatu), the palladium of the Sinhalese nation & Buddhist faith is enshrined. This important shrine boasts intricate carvings and beautiful Sri Lankan art. During the ‘puja’ throngs of pilgrims visit the temple to line up to glimpse the golden casket said to hold the sacred relic and to make offerings of flowers.
(Please dress appropriately when visiting The Temple of the Tooth Relic, with shoulders and knees covered.)
Afterwards explore the city of Kandy and the culinary journey. Walk the streets of Kandy and catch a glimpse of its colonial elegance blended within the natural beauty. The city is dotted with impeccably restored colonial buildings and historic landmarks. Along the way stop at a local eatery to enjoy freshly prepared vegan dishes. Back on the road, based on availability look for street food galore to get a taste of the island’s delectable flavours. Crispy, salty, spicy and sugary, Sri Lankan street food comes in all shapes and sizes. Stroll along the famous Kandy Lake, built in 1807 and forms an attractive center-piece for the town. Return to the city center, a stroll along the famous shopping streets and to points of interest such as the central market, local church, garrison cemetery, clock tower and the historic railway station. End of the day treat yourself to a range of soya- based food item.
On completion proceed to the beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya, set in the heart of Tea country and situated 1890 meters above sea level, is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne. On arrival check in to the hotel.
Overnight at The Lynden Grove (Deluxe Room)
Today after breakfast explore the city of Nuwara Eliya. Take a walk around the town centre, Market place, passing the Victorian post office, the old Hill Club and golf course before a stop at Holy Trinity Church, a quaint building constructed by the British in the mid-19th Century and drive around this hill station viewing Lake Gregory.
In time of the train proceed to Nanu Oya railway station and board in to the train and continue to Ella - A journey said regarded as one of the most scenic train journeys in the world with sceneries of rolling mountains and green valley’s. Meet up with the driver at the Nanu Oya station and leave for the hotel in Ella.
(Train tickets are subject to availability and train times are subject to change due to regular delays Please note that train tickets can only be booked 14 days in advance, with preference given to government officials. When train tickets are not available, a scenic road transfer through the hill country will be substituted.)
Overnight at Morning Dew Boutique (Deluxe Room)
Today at your convenience, visit Little Adam’s Peak this is Ella’s best known tourist attraction, aptly named since it has a similar shape to Adam’s Peak, which is Sri Lanka’s holy mountain. It is a much shorter and easier climb to the top of the 1141 meter peak. The walk is enjoyable and clearly marked as you meander through tea plantations and take in breathtaking views of Ella Rock, Ravana Falls and the endless valley below.
Visit the Nine Arches Bridge. It is one of the best examples of British railway constructions when Ceylon was a colony of the British Empire. The surrounding area has seen a steady increase of tourism due to the bridge's architectural ingenuity and the profuse greenery in the nearby hillsides.
Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Morning Dew Boutique (Deluxe Room)
After breakfast proceed to Tissamaharama, once a kingdom of yesteryear, and is famous for Tissa Wewa, Tissamaharama Stupa and an entry point into Katharagama and Yala National Park.
Later in the afternoon commence a jeep safari in the Yala National Park by private jeep accompanied by a tracker. Yala National park one of Sri Lanka’s premier eco tourist Destinations and is renowned for its variety of wildlife notably its many elephants. It is also home to the spotted deer, sambar, wild buffalo, sloth bear, jackal, mongoose and crocodiles. The peacock is easily the most famous of the birds in this park. Yala has a high concentration of Leopards although seeing these nocturnal carnivores still requires some luck.
(Your safari will be by a private jeep and accompanied by a local naturalist on availability. Please be prepared for some rough and dusty roads and be aware that this park can be extremely busy, especially over weekends and festivals. Also note you will proceed in your jeep to the park entrance to collect tickets prior to the park opening, in busy periods this process may take up to 45 minutes.)
Overnight at Kithala Resort (Deluxe Room)
Early this morning you will be taken into the national park on another game drive for a chance to see some of Yala’s exciting wildlife. Return to the hotel in the mid-morning and enjoy breakfast before departure.
Afterwards proceed to Mirissa, a secluded and charming fishing village featured under the spot light for being one of the best whale watching destinations in the world. Apart from that a stunning crescent beach, great breaks for surfers, modest guesthouses and a string of simple restaurants at the back of the sand is what Mirissa is known for. Check in to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Mirissa Beach Villa (Deluxe Ocean view)
Later this morning you will enjoy a traditional cooking session at a local house. Sri Lankan traditional cooking techniques take their best form in the southern part of the island. The cuisine relies heavily on the core ingredients of coconut, vegetables, rice, fresh chillis, spices, and curry leaves, all of which grow in abundance on this part of the island. Visit a local farm and gather the vegetables before start learning how to cook a traditional Sri Lankan meal and enjoy lunch.
Afterwards explore the Galle Fort. 300 year old Dutch atmosphere is still very much alive around the fort and amidst its many historical buildings not invaded by the skyscrapers. The earliest European administrative centre of Sri Lanka was the major port and the largest city until the British shifted the port to Colombo. The City of Galle had been the European administrative centre over 4 centuries. Meander your way past some of the fort’s best known landmarks but look out also for some lesser known gems. A walk along the fort walls from the lighthouse allows you wonderful views out into the Indian Ocean, of the city behind it and into the famous Galle Cricket Ground, one of the most attractive of all international cricket venues.
On completion return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day leisure.
Overnight at Mirissa Beach Villa (Deluxe Ocean view)
Rise early morning and leave your hotel with packed breakfast for Whale Watching excursion in a shared boat. Arrive at the fishery harbor by 06:30 hours to take the boat and set out across the sea. Whale watching season starts in November and ends in April. Ocean is warm and calm during these months. In the warm Indian Ocean you can see Blue whales, Sperm whales, Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Risso's dolphins and striped dolphins. Sometimes we can see whales even in October and after April but ocean can be rough. Usually the ocean is rough in the afternoons and not suitable for whale watching. Swimming with the whales and dolphins is not permitted.
(Preventative travel sickness tablets are recommended if you are not a good sailor. Remember to take sunglasses, sun hat and good sun screen protection. Please note the operation of the excursion is dependent on prevailing weather conditions on the day. Sightings of whales and dolphins cannot be guaranteed! The tours last 3-5 hours depend on spotting of whales and wish of the passengers.)
On completion return to the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight at Mirissa Beach Villa (Deluxe Ocean view)
After breakfast proceed to Colombo. En route visit a Turtle Hatchery. The hatchery pays fishermen for eggs that they collect at night along the long sandy beach. Although October to April is the main laying season, some eggs (mostly green turtles) can be found throughout the year. The hatchery buries the eggs in sand, and when they hatch around 50 days later the baby turtles are released into the sea at night. Only about one in 1,000 turtles survive to maturity.
Continue to Colombo, the commercial and city center known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures.
At your convenience explore the city of Colombo. See the vibrant markets and bazaars of Pettah and the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Then proceed to Independence Square, the location where Sri Lanka proclaimed its independence from British rule in 1948. Drive past the Town hall, Cinnamon Gardens and Galle Face Green. Make the last stop of the day at Gangaramaya Temple, one of the most important Buddhist temples in Colombo. Explore the architecture and paintings of this religious site before cross the street to Bera Lake, is a lake in the center of the city of Colombo.
Overnight at Colombo Court Hotel & Spa (Deluxe Room)
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