Welcome to paradise in the Indian Ocean, Sri Lanka offers magnificent landscape of natural habitats, lush green mountains, breath taking valleys and white sand beaches. This brief tour combines culture and relaxation taking in some of Sri Lanka’s finest historical, archaeological and natural treasures whilest not forgetting the pleasures of a few days by the sea. Tour the ‘Cultural Triangle’ visiting the ancient cities of Polonnaruwa and Anarudhapura, the sacred cave temple of Dambulla. Travel to the bustling city of Kandy where you may explore the Temple of the Tooth Relic and the magnificent Peredeniya Botanical Gardens. Finish the trip with a few days at a charming boutique hotel with miles of beaches right at your doorstep.
Day 01: Arrive Negombo
Arrive at Colombo international airport, meet – greet with our office representative & transfer to Negombo. Once you will reach your hotel our representative will handover you the travel documents and explain your entire plan in details.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 02: Negombo – Dambulla
Travel by road to Dambulla, en-route stop at Pinnawela Elephant orphanage, established in year 1975 as a conversation breeding centre for Elephants by Sri Lankan Wildlife Department. It was started with a herd of 7 orphan elephants; as of today this orphanage is considered as one of the largest elephant breeding centres in the world with the number going up to 80 elephants. Afternoon you visit the World Heritage site of Dambulla Caves dating back to the 2nd century BC. It is the largest and best preserved cave complex in Sri Lanka with over 80 documented caves in the surrounding areas. However the major attractions are spread over 5 caves which contain statues and paintings related to Lord Buddha’s life.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 03: Wildlife Safari
After breakfast enjoy a visit to Polonnaruwa, the ancient capital of Sri Lanka. As of today the city remains as one of the best planned archaeological relic sites it the country, a standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom’s first rulers. It is now declared a World Heritage site by the UNESCO. Afternoon proceed for a wildlife safari at Minneriya National Park. The Park is based largely around a huge tank (reservoir) and serves as an important gathering place for Sri Lanka’s large elephant population. Besides elephants, Minneriya is also home to many species of mammals; like the deer, sambur and sloth bear.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 04: Kandy
Travel to Kandy, en-route visit the 5th century old Sigiriya Rock Fortress. The palace still has remains of four indoor swimming pools where the King’s 500 concubines bathed, a complex water arteries in the walls that provided natural air conditioning during the hot climate. The mirror walls of the Sigiriya rock still retain and the world famous frescoes of the king’s concubines, who originated from all parts of the world. Later visit the spice garden at Matale to see varieties of spice plantation and purchase as a locally grown souvenir.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 05: Kandy
In the morning after breakfast explore the town and visit Temple of the Tooth Relic, which houses the Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha. The Tooth is kept in a two-storey shrine fronted by two large elephant tusks and rests on a gold lotus flower, encased in jewelled casket that sits on a throne. The temple is decorated with beautiful local paintings and architectural features. Visit the Gem museum in the afternoon. Evening enjoy upper Lake drive and watch a cultural show before finishing your day.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 06: Kandy – Bentota
Travel by road to Bentota / Beruwela, a small resort town in the south western coastal belt where the beaches boast of its dazzling combination of sun, sea and sand. Soft golden sand that feel like talcum powder under the feet, giant palm fronds rustling lightly in the tropical breeze; all in a breath stopping beautiful corralled bay, make your two nights at resort simply gorgeous! Enjoy and immerse yourself in the serenity of the area.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 07: Bentota/ Beruwela
Visit a Turtle Hatchery at Kosgoda operated by the Wildlife Protection Society of Sri Lanka. The hatcheries pay fishermen for eggs that they collect in the night along the long sandy beaches. There are huge tanks filled with new born but lively hatchlings that after being fed are taken to the sea and released when they are 2-3 days old. The beaches of Sri Lanka are the nesting grounds for five species of marine turtles; the Green Turtle, the Leatherback, the Hawksbill, the Loggerhead and Olive Ridley. Optionally enjoy a river safari on the Bentota River to experience its unique ecosystem and breathtaking beauty.
Overnight stay at hotel
Day 08: Bentota - Colombo Departure
After a leisurely breakfast the tour finishes with a direct transfer to Colombo Airport by late afternoon for you to catch your onward connecting flight. (B)
!! BACK HOME WITH SWEET MEMORIES!!
