The Pick of Sri Lanka
Description
Explore Sri Lanka high and low with this fascinating guaranteed departure tour starting in the capital, Colombo, and taking an inland loop that covers all the main historical, cultural, and natural attractions of this magical island. Discover a world of lush landscapes, picturesque lakeside cities, historic temples, and ancient citadels. Breathe in the fragrances of Sri Lanka at herb and spice gardens. Enjoy cultural shows and spiritual experiences over nine unforgettable days travelling across this earthly paradise.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
Colombo: Sri Lanka’s vibrant capital is both a historic city packed with colonial architecture and a bustling metropolis.
Dambulla: Catch a glimpse of this fascinating Buddhist cave temple carved deep into a mountain and decorated with impressive frescoes.
Sigiriya: The ‘Lion Rock’ rises almost 200 metres above the jungle, offering breathtaking panoramic views.
Polonnaruwa: An ancient city characterized by temples and palace ruins, as well as an interesting still-functioning irrigation system.
Matale: Wander around the delightful spice gardens, breathing the scents of Sri Lanka: cinnamon, turmeric, nutmeg, and many others.
Kandy: This beautiful city hosts the famous Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its paradisiacal palaces and gardens.
Nuwara Eliya: Visit a plantation in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country and admire the town’s mesmerising Victorian architecture.
Buduruwagala: Clear your way through the jungle to find the inspiring ancient, rock-carved sculptures of Buddha.
Yala National Park: Explore the magnificent fields of green and meet many wild animals such as elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and leopards.
Galle: Travel back in time while exploring the historical streets of this well-preserved fortified Dutch colonial city.
Kosgoda: Visit a sea turtle hatchery and see how a conservation project helps this endangered species.
Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with an English-speaking guide
ACCOMMODATION:
- 8 nights' accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Palm Village Hotel or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Radisson Colombo or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*
Day 2-3 Sigiriya :
Standard Hotel Category = Kassapa Lions Rock or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = The Paradise Resort or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*
Day 4-5 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Hotel Hilltop or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Earl’s Regent or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = The Grand Kandyan or similar 5*
Day 6 Nuwara Eliya:
Standard Hotel Category = Galway Forest Lodge or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Jetwing St Andrew’s or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 5*
Day 7 Tissamaharama:
Standard Hotel Category = Chandrika Hotel or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = The Safari or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Jetwing Yala or similar 5*
Day 8 Kalutara:
Standard Hotel Category = Hibiscus Beach Hotel & Villas or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Turyaa Kalutara or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Heritance Ahungalla or similar 5*
MEALS:
- 8 Breakfasts
TRANSPORT:
- Shared transport throughout the tour
- Inbound/Outbound airport transfers from/to International Airport in Colombo.
- Jeep safari in Yala National Park on day 7
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary: Dambulla Cave Temple (day 2), Sigiriya Rock Fortress and Polonnaruwa (day 3), Matale spice and herb garden, Peradeniya Royal Botanical Gardens (day 4), Temple of Tooth and cultural show in Kandy (day 5), tea plantation and factory (day 6), temple of Buduruwagala and Yala National Park jeep safari (day 7) Galle visit and turtle hatchery in Kosgoda (day 8)
OTHER:
- Meet and Greet on day 1
Excluded
- Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the programme
- Gratuities for drive and guide
- Entrance fees for all sights and attractions
- Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, etc
- Video camera and photography permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
- Optional tours and activities
- Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances such as flight delays, accidents, etc.
Know before you go
Comfortable and light clothing is the most suitable for travelling in Sri Lanka. Visitors should not wear sleeveless shirts, shorts, short skirts or skimpy clothing when visiting temples, religious or official buildings. Shoes should be removed before entering a temple or private house. Sun protection, sunglasses, a hat and mosquito repellent can be very useful during your stay. Clients arriving on early morning flights will have to wait until the last tour participant has arrived.