Semi Escorted
Upon arrival in Colombo, you will be transferred to Negombo. Here, you will be greeted and assisted by a representative and transferred to your hotel in Negombo.
After breakfast, visit Negombo's Fish Market. Here, experience the vibrant energy of Negombo's famous Fish Market where fresh catches of the day are showcased in colourful displays along the scenic coastline. Immerse yourself in the bustling atmosphere as local Fishermen display their skills and expertise, offering a glimpse into the heart of the region's fishing industry. Afterwards, drive to Sigiriya. On the way, visit the Dambulla Cave Temple, which is the largest and best preserved Cave Temple Complex in the country. This complex has sculptures including a 47 feet long rock-cut reclining Buddha, pre-Christian rock inscriptions and Buddhist murals, which cover more than 20,000 square feet of the walls and ceilings. The mural paintings here belong to different time periods. Ancient marvels of engineering like the drip ledge drainage that still keeps the caves free of seeping water reflect the sophistication of planning and thought behind this marvel in stone. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Dambulla Cave Temple is a treasure trove of artistic heritage. Continue on to Sigiriya, which is located in the Matale District in the Central Province of Sri Lanka and surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens, reservoirs and other structures. Sigiriya is famous for its Palace ruins on top of a massive 200 metre high rock. Upon arrival, transfer to the hotel for check-in. Meals: Breakfast
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After breakfast, visit the Ancient City of Polonnaruwa, the Island's Medieval Capital, which is situated 216 kilometres from Colombo and rose to fame after the decline of Anuradhapura. Here see the largest manmade reservoirs, the huge Parakrama Samudra, the ruins of the King's Council Chamber, the Royal Citadel, the Kumara Pokuna, Royal Pavilion, the Vatadage Relic House, Kiri Vehera, which is the best preserved of all Sri Lanka's unrestored Dagabas and Gal Vihare, which is the most impressive sculptures are the colossal Buddha images. This afternoon, enjoy a Jeep Safari in Minneriya National Park, which is home to the world's largest known gathering of Asian Elephants. During this period, herds of up to 350 Elephants are seen at the 8,890 hectare park within a few square kilometres of the Minneriya Tank. According to some reports, there are as many as 700 Elephants. In August and September each year, during the dry season, wild Elephants migrate from Wasgamuwa National Park to Minneriya National Park in search of food and shelter. Tourists visit Minneriya National Park largely because of Elephants, especially in the dry season. The park is an important habitat for Sri Lanka’s two endemic Monkeys, the purple faced Langur and the Toque Macaque. After our visit, we will drive back to Sigiriya for our overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, we will depart the hotel to climb the Sigiriya Rock Fortress. This rocky outcrop of Sigiriya holds the ancient remains of King Kassapa's Palace from the 5th Century A.D. The top is reachable by stairs built on the side of the Mountain and features the Lion Rock as well as the remains of the Palace and Fortress. Visitors will see the magnificence of the place when they reach the top, complete with a 360 degree view of the Jungle below. The water reservoirs that collect rainwater are still there and in good condition. Sigiriya was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1982. Afterwards, enjoy an excursion to Hiriwadunna Village with a walk through the rustic rural community of Sigiriya and Habarana accompanied by an expert guide. It's not merely a walk but an authentic encounter with the local village folk, experiencing their lifestyles, their culture and their hospitality. Since both villages are predominantly agriculture based, there is ample opportunity to experience conventional rice fields, vegetable farming, cultivation of native yams and other crops, poultry keeping, beekeeping and much more. For those with a knack for adventure, you can try climbing the makeshift 'tree house' where the villagers keep watch and drive away the wild animals during the night. You will be warmly welcomed and even get some hands on experience of what it is like to be one with nature's bounty. Let the cool breeze brush against your face as you head to one of their humble homes for a refreshing cup of Pure Ceylon Tea served with a piece of jaggery (a sweet brown sugar made from solidified palm sap). Afterwards, enjoy a cooking demonstration before returning to Sigiriya for your overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, check-out of the hotel for your departure to Kandy. Along the way, visit the Spice Gardens in Matale, which offer a fragrant journey through the world of spices, showcasing the cultivation and processing of a variety of aromatic treasures like cinnamon, cloves and nutmeg. Experience the rich flavours and learn about traditional spice production methods in this captivating destination. Afterwards, we continue our drive to Kandy. The last Capital of the Sri Lankan Kings, Kandy is a repository of traditional culture and the Island's most frequented tourist resort. Set amidst tea and spice gardens, lakes, mountains and a river, Kandy's varied charm offers memorable sights and scenes. Upon arrival in Kandy, you will visit the Tooth Temple. Ever since the Buddha's Tooth Relic was brought to Sri Lanka hidden from sacrilegious hands in an Orissan Princess' hair, the Relic has grown in reputation and holiness in Sri Lanka and throughout the Buddhist world. Sri Dalada Maligawa (Temple of the Tooth), which houses the most sacred relic, is considered one of the holiest Shrines in Sri Lanka. The historical procession called 'Esala Perahera' is held here annually during the month of July to pay homage to the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the hotel for check-in. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, embark on a scenic train journey from Kandy to Nanu Oya. Along the way, marvel at the lush tea plantations, cascading waterfalls and quaint villages and immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Sri Lanka's countryside. Upon arrival in Nanu Oya, you journey continues to Nuwara Eliya. The coolest City in Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya, which literally means 'City of Light', lies at an altitude of 1,868 metres. Overlooked by Pidurutalagala (the tallest mountain in Sri Lanka) the city boasts natural beauty and is considered the most important locations for tea production in Sri Lanka. Due to its cool climate in a hot and humid country like Sri Lanka, Nuwara Eliya is also referred to as 'Little England' and its picturesque landscapes will surely blow your mind. This afternoon, enjoy a drive past the Racecourse, the Golf Course, Victoria Park and Lake Gregory (lake can be done in the morning on way out of town) as well as visit the Market area for a walk with some of the old general stores along the main strip. Meals: Breakfast
After an early breakfast, embark on an exhilarating excursion to Horton Plains for a captivating trekking experience. Delve into the adventure of a 9 kilometre looped track through the picturesque Horton Plains National Park, which leads to the awe inspiring viewpoints known as the World's End and Mini World's End. Upon completing the trek, return to the hotel to relax. Later in the day, visit the New Zealand Farm in Ambewela, which is located a few kilometres away from Nuwara Eliya. The New Zealand Farm is part of the larger Ambewela Farm Complex, both dedicated to dairy farming. The New Zealand Farm specialises in breeding purebred Friesian Cows and maintains strict standards for Milk quality through a nutritious diet and 24 hour healthcare services. Visitors can explore the expansive grasslands, which are also integral to the Ambewela Farm's Dairy Production including Milk, Cheese and Yogurt. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast at the hotel, check- out of the hotel before departing for Yala with a stop along the way to explore Ella. Here, Ella draws attention to sites associated with the legendary tale of the Ramayana including the Ravana Ella and Ravana Cave. One of the highlights is the Ella Gap that shows one of the most breathtaking views of the terrain after a hike up Ella Rock. You can also plan other easy excursions and encounter waterfalls along the way. Afterwards, we continue driving to Yala. Spread over an area of 979 square kilometres in the southeast corner of Sri Lanka, Yala National Park is the oldest and most popular National Park in the country. Renowned for its rich fauna with pockets of dense forest, the major activities here are bird and game watching especially the Elephants. The park harbours 215 bird species along with 44 species of mammals and one of the highest Leopard densities in the world. Upon arrival in Yala, check-in at the hotel. Later this afternoon, enjoy a Safari at Yala National Park, which is famous for its Leopards. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, check-out of your hotel in Yala and travel to Beruwala. En route visit Galle Dutch Fort. The Dutch built this fortified town of Galle in the 16th Century. It sits approximately 130 kms south of Colombo and is a town worth visiting. Thick stone ramparts, which were built to protect the goods stored here during the times of the Dutch East India Company in the 17th and 18th Centuries, surround the historical buildings and Churches. The entire Fort has been a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. Afterwards, we continue on to Beruwala for your overnight stay. Meals: Breakfast
Today, enjoy breakfast at the hotel. Your day is free at leisure to relax on the beach or explore on your own. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, enjoy another day at leisure to relax or continue exploring the sights you may have missed the day before. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, check-out of the hotel for your departure for Colombo. The Commercial Capital of Sri Lanka, Colombo, is the conventional gateway to the East. A popular stopover on the western route to Australia and the Far East. Its original Moorish Monuments, Canals, Clock Towers, Religions, Customs and Languages that have been absorbed into the local dialect, are a testimony to the influence of the passing travellers. A multireligious community, Colombo has over 15 zones with three main zones including the Fort, which is the centre of urban activity, the Pettah, which is the bustling Bazaar area and the Old Cinnamon Garden, which is now known as Colombo 7 with roomy mansions and superior residences. Upon arrival in Colombo, enjoy a Colombo city tour embarking on a cultural odyssey through Colombo's bustling streets, starting with the historic Fort District where colonial charm meets modernity. Explore Tamil Hindu Temples (Kovils) showcasing intricate Dravidian architecture, then delve into the serene ambiance of the iconic Gangaramaya Temple. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the vibrant Pettah Street Market, which is alive with the colours and aromas of local life. Enjoy a free evening to unwind or continue your exploration of this dynamic city, where every corner offers a glimpse into Sri Lanka's rich tapestry of culture and history. Meals: Breakfast
After breakfast, check-out of the hotel and transfer to the Airport for your onward journey or return flight home. Meals: Breakfast
Tour Prices are per person twin share in Australian Dollars. Conditions apply and group tours are subject to change and availability. Prices are subject to currency fluctuations. (iat)
