Pearl of the Indian Ocean, Private Tour

Description
Discover the heart of Sri Lanka with this fascinating journey departing from Colombo, visiting the most important historical places, the cultural and natural attractions of the island, including five UNESCO World Heritage sites. Enjoy its beautiful landscapes and picturesque villages, historical temples and ancient cities. Breathe in the scents of Sri Lanka in its spice gardens and tea plantations. You will also enjoy cultural shows and spiritual experiences during eight unforgettable days knowing the paradise described by Marco Polo as the most beautiful place he had seen.
TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
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.
Nuwara Eliya: View fascinating plantations in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country and admire the town’s Victorian architecture.
Kandy: This mesmerising city is home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and its associated palaces and gardens.
Yala: Explore the magnificent fields of green and meet many wild animals such as elephants, buffalo, crocodiles, and leopards.
Weligama: Get close to the shores of the Indian Ocean and observe the unique way of fishing practised by local fishermen.
Galle: Travel back in time while exploring the historical streets of this well-preserved fortified Dutch colonial city.
Included
TOUR GUIDE:
- Operated with English-speaking chauffeur-guide, other languages upon booking of the optional extra
ACCOMMODATION:
- 7 nights' accommodation
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS
Day 1 Colombo:
Standard Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Pegasus Reef or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lakeside or similar 5*
Day 2-3 Sigiriya/Habarana:
Standard Hotel Category = Sigiriya Village or similar 4*
Superior Hotel Category = Habarana Village or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Lodge or similar 5*
Day 4 Kandy:
Standard Hotel Category = Royal Kandyan or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Citadel or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Grand Kandyan or similar 5*
Day 5 Nuwara Eliya:
Standard Hotel Category = Araliya Red or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Araliya Green Hills or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Araliya Green City or similar 5*
Day 6 Yala or Tissamaharama:
Standard Hotel Category = Chaarya Resort & Spa or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Wild or similar 5*
Day 7 Koggala/Beruwela:
Standard Hotel Category = The Palms or similar 3*
Superior Hotel Category = Hikka Tranz By Cinnamon or similar 4*
Deluxe Hotel Category = Cinnamon Bey or similar 5*
MEALS:
- 7 Breakfasts
- 7 Dinners
TRANSPORT:
- Inbound/Outbound private transfer from/to Colombo Airport
- Air-conditioned private transportation throughout the tour
- Non-air-conditioned private 4X4 Jeep for Safari in Yala National Park (Day 6)
ENTRANCE FEES AND ACTIVITIES:
- All entrance fees and activities: Colombo City Tour, Visit Silver Temple and Trekking in the area, Dambulla caves, Citadel in Sigiriya Lion Rock, visit the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Spice garden in Matale, cultural dance show in Kandy, tea factory and plantation, Temple of the Buddha's Tooth in Kandy, Ravana waterfall, entrance and safari in Yala National Park and Galle Fortress
OTHER:
- Meet and greet
- Government taxes
Excluded
- Video camera and photography permits at the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy
- Entrance to Perahera Festival in August
- Visa fees
- Domestic flights
- International flights
- Drinks during meals (unless specified otherwise)
- Optional tours (if any)
- City tax not included, payable on the spot
- Any visit not mentioned in the program
- Porterage and gratuities
- Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
- Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)
- 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.