Day 01 Airport/Kandy
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff. Leave the airport for Kandy (100 km, approx. 3 hour drive). En route visit the Elephant Orphanage (50 km, approx. 2 hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m.,1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel. Evening visit the Temple of the Tooth and thereafter enjoy the Kandyan Cultural Show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display. Exclusive candle lit dinner at hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy
Day 02 – Nuwara Eliya
After breakfast at the hotel visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed. Thereafter proceed to Nuwara Eliya (approximately 77 km – 3 hour drive). Set in the heart of Tea Country, situated 1890 meters above sea level, this beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges. En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, check in at hotel. Thereafter commence a sightseeing tour in the city. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf Course in Asia), the Hill Club, and drive around this hill station viewing Lake Gregory.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya
Day 03-Nuwara-Eliya
Breakfast at hotel. Spend your day at leisure. Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 04- Kitulgala / Bentota
After breakfast leave for Bentota via Kitulgala (244 km, approx. 5 ½ hour drive). En route visit prehistorically important Belilena in Kitulgala which is a very large cave in which 12,000 year old skeletal remains of the prehistoric ‘Balangoda man’ have been found. Thereafter visit the location where the famous World War II movie “Bridge on the River Kwai” was filmed. On completion proceed to Bentota a tourist resort in the south with the most beautiful, wide and sandy beaches.
On arrival in Bentota, check in at the hotel. Exclusive candlelit dinner at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota.
Day 05 - Bentota
Breakfast at hotel. Full day at leisure on the beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota.
Day 06 - Bentota
Breakfast at hotel. Full day at leisure on the beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota.
Day 07
After breakfast leave to the Airport (96 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive) for your departure flight.
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff. Leave the airport for Medagama (55 km, approx. 2 hour drive). On arrival, check in at the eco friendly lodge. Highlights of the activities are Canoeing in Bolgoda River, Mountain biking, Traditional River crossing in a ferry.
Overnight stay at a lodge in Medagama.
Day 02-Kitulgala
After breakfast leave for Kitulgala (80 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive). On arrival, check in at the outdoor Camping site. You will be accommodated in an outdoor tent. Highlights of activities here are White Water Rafting (day, night), Water fall Abseiling, Confidence jump, Sliding, Rock climbing, Trekking, Water trekking.
Day 03- Kitulgala
Breakfast at camping site. Another day of adventure activities. Overnight stay at a camping site.
Day 04- Knuckles Forest Range
After breakfast leave for Knuckles Forest Range via Kandy (105 km, approx.2 ½ hour drive). The Knuckles Range is an important forest for Birding, Trekking, Wildlife Photography, Camping, and for nature lovers. It derives its name from the similarity of its ridges to the knuckles of a clenched fist. It is a cradle for plant and animal life and is an invaluable asset where biodiversity and watershed values are concerned. On arrival, check in at the out door camping site.
Overnight stay at a camping site.
Day 05-Ella
After breakfast leave for Ella via Nuwara Eliya (178 km, approx. 6 hour drive). En route you may visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea. On arrival, check in at the camping site where you can stay at a deluxe room or in an out door tent. Many adventure activities can be indulged in here such as Aerial Rope, Monkey rope, Slithering rope, Toddy tapping, Mud activities, Para Gliding, Pain ball, Water polo, Canoeing, Kayaking and Mountain biking etc. Overnight stay at the Ella Adventure site.
Breakfast at the site. Full day at the site. Overnight stay at the Ella Adventure site
Day 07- Ella
After breakfast proceed to Yala in the South of Sri Lanka. (134 km, approx.3 ½ hour drive). On arrival in Yala, check in at the hotel. 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 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. Overnight stay at a hotel in Yala.
Day 08 – Yala / Negombo
After breakfast leave for Negombo (340km, approx.7 ½ hour drive). En route visit the Galle Fort. Places of interest in Galle are a Dutch Church, the Natural Harbour, the Dutch Cultural Museum and the National Maritime Museum.
On reaching Colombo, commence a sightseeing tour of the city. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. On completion, drive to Negombo. Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo.
Day 09 - Departure
After breakfast leave to the Airport for your departure flight ( 8 km, approx. 15 min. drive).
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people.On completion return to hotel.
Overnight stay at Havelock Bungalow or Taru Villas at Park Street or similar in Colombo.
Day 02- Polonnaruwa
After breakfast leave for Polonnaruwa (216 km, approx. 5 hour drive) the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century and on arrival visit the well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. which still remain),graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Of these the ‘Vatadage’ and the ‘Thuparama Image House’ are the most spectacular. 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.
Overnight stay at Elephant Corridor or Vill Uyana or similar in Sigiriya.
Day 03- Sigiriya
After breakfast at hotel, leave for Sigiriya (25 km, approx.1 ½ hour drive) and climb the Rock Fortress(a UNESCO World Heritage site) built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The Lion Rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 meters from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall.
Thereafter leave for Kandy (92 km, approx. 3 hour drive). En route visit a Spice garden in Matale. On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at Villa Rosa or Kandy House or similar.
Overnight stay at Villa Rosa or Kandy House or similar.
Day 04- Kandy
After breakfast at the hotel, commence a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the bustling hill country capital which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts Showroom. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 and is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Also visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August. Late evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking show. Overnight stay at Villa Rosa or Kandy House or similar.
Day 05- Pinnawela / Nuwara-Eliya
After breakfast proceed to Pinnawala and visit the Elephant Orphanage (50 km, 2 hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.).
Thereafter proceed to Nuwara Eliya (130km, approx. 4 ½ hour drive). En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea. This beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya set in the heart of Tea Country, 1890 meters above sea level, is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya commence a sightseeing tour of the city. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf courses in Asia) the Hill Club, and drive around this hill station viewing Lake Gregory. Sri Lanka's highest mountain Pidurutalagala (8282 ft) is located here.Overnight stay at a Tea Trails Bungalow or similar in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 06- Uda Walawe / Ratnapura
After breakfast leave for Udawalawe (180 km, approx. 4 ½ hour drive) and commence a jeep safari. Uda Walawe National Park is one of the best parks to view wild elephants. An estimated 500 elephants in herds of up to 100 live here. It is located next to the vast Uda Walawe reservoir. Leopard sightings although rare in this park do occur with some regularity. It is also home to many other animals including sambar, barking deer, water buffaloes, jackals, sloth bears, mongoose and several varieties of birds. On completion of the safari, leave for Ratnapura , the Gem city. Overnight stay at Boulder Gardens or similar in Ratnapura.
Day 07- Bentota
After breakfast leave for Bentota (100 km, approx. 3 hour drive) a tourist resort in the south with the most beautiful, wide and sandy beaches. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at Aditya or Temple Tree or similar.
Day 08- Bentota
Breakfast at hotel. Full day at leisure at the beach. Overnight stay at Aditya or Temple Tree or similar
Day 09 - Departure
Breakfast at hotel. After Breakfast leave for the airport (99 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive) for the departure flight.
Golf in Paradise - 10 Nights / 11 Days
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport Katunayake. (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a BuddhistTemple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people.Overnight at hotel in Colombo.
Day 2 – Colombo
After breakfast,day free for playing golf at Royal Colombo Golf Club (www.rcgcsl.com). Overnight at hotel in Colombo.
Day 3 – Colombo
After breakfast, day free for playing golf at Royal Colombo Golf Club. Overnight at hotel in Colombo.
Day 4-Pinnawela
Kandy After breakfast proceed to Pinnawala and visit the Elephant Orphanage (50 km, 2 hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m.,1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). Thereafter leave for Kandy. On arrival in Kandy, check in at hotel.
Afternoon, commence a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the bustling hill country capital which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts Showroom. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 which is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August. Late evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display. Overnight at hotel in Kandy.
Day 5 – Kandy
Breakfast at hotel. Day free for playing golf at Victoria Golf Club (approximately 45 km – 1 hour drive). (www.victoriagolf.lk). Overnight at hotel in Kandy.
Day 6 – Kandy
Breakfast at hotel. Day free for playing golf at Victoria Golf Club. Overnight at hotel in Kandy.
Day 7-Nuwara Eliya
Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast proceed to Nuwara Eliya (77 km, approx. 3 hour drive). Set in the heart of Tea Country, situated 1890 meters above sea level, this beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges. En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya, check in at hotel. Commence a sightseeing tour of the city. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf Course in Asia) the Hill Club, and drive around this hill station viewing Lake Gregory. Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 08 – Nuwara Eliya
Breakfast at hotel. Day free for playing golf at Nuwara Eliya Golf Club.(www.negolf.lk) Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 09 – Nuwara Eliya
Breakfast at hotel. Day free for playing golf at Nuwara Eliya Golf Club Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 10 – Negombo
After breakfast leave for Negombo (166 km. approx. 6 hour drive).Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo.
Day 11
After breakfast leave to the airport for the departure flight.(8 km, approx. 15 min. drive).
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival and transferred to Negombo (8 km, approx.15 min. drive) and check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence sightseeing in Negombo. Visit the Negombo Fishing Village. This little fishing port is a pleasure for the eyes with its fort and canals of the Dutch era. But still more interesting are the beautiful beaches where the fishermen live in houses made of coconut palm leaves and dry the fish they caught earlier that day. The colored boats and the outrigger- canoes or Oruvas sweeping in to the lagoon with their catch, the fish market, the old Dutch churches that dot the landscape & canals that stretch for hundreds of kilometers are fascinating. It is worthwhile to go on a boat trip to the lagoon or one of the old canals dating back to the Dutch colonization.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo
Day 02 –Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa
After breakfast at hotel, leave for Sigiriya (153 km, 4 hour drive) and climb the Rock Fortress(a UNESCO World Heritage site) built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The lion rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 meters from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall. On completion, check in at hotel.
Thereafter, leave for Polonnaruwa (67 km, 1 ½ hour drive) the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century and on arrival visit the well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. which still remain),graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Of these the ‘Vatadage’ and the ‘Thuparama Image House’ are the most spectacular. 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. On completion leave for Habarana (58 km, approx. 1 ¼ hour drive)and check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Habarana.
Day 03- Nilaweli
After breakfast leave for Nilaweli via Trincomalee (115 km, approx.3 ½ hour drive). This golden sandy beach on the east is peaceful, clean and wide. Nilaweli is a great beach for relaxing especially during the period of April to October. Nilaweli is one of the best spots in Sri Lanka for surfing and scuba divingOvernight stay at a hotel in Nilaweli
Day 04 - Nilaweli
Breakfast at hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Nilaweli.
Day 05 – Nilaweli / Minneriya / Habarana
After breakfast leave for Minneriya for a Jeep Safari (129 km, approx. 4 hour drive). Minneriya National Park is about 8900 hectares in extent and is an ideal eco tourism location in Sri Lanka. The park consists of mixed evergreen forest and scrub area and is home to Sri Lanka’s favorites such as spotted deer, Sambar, leopards and elephants. However the central feature of the park is the ancient Minneriya Tank (built in the 3rd century). This tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants which come to bathe in the water and graze on the grasses and the huge flocks of birds, cormorants and painted storks to name a few that come to fish in the shallow waters.Overnight stay at a hotel in Habarana
Day 06 – Arugam Bay
After breakfast leave for Arugam Bay Beach near Potuvil (250 km, approx. 7 hour drive). This lazy little fishing village of Arugam Bay is richly endowed with a beautiful stretch of ocean and vast expanses of deserted beach. For many years a popular sea side holiday resort for local travelers, Arugam Bay has grown in the last twenty years into a big attraction for lovers of the surf, who converge on it in numbers from different parts of the world, to indulge in their favourite hobby of surfing and enjoy the bonus of a cheap, easy going, hassle-free lifestyle, among friendly Sri Lankan people. Overnight stay at a hotel in Arugam Bay
Day 07- Arugam Bay
Breakfast at hotel.Spend the day at leisure on the beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Arugam Bay.
Day 08- Arugam Bay
Breakfast at hotel. Spend the day at leisure on the beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Arugam Bay.
Day 09 – Kandy
After breakfast leave for Kandy via Mahiyangana (264 km, approx. 8 hour drive).On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 10 – Kandy
After breakfast, commence a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the bustling hill country capital which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts show room. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 which is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August.
Late evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural Show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 11- Pinnawela / Colombo
After breakfast leave for Colombo (116 km, approx. 3 hour drive). En route visit the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela. This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). On arrival in Colombo, check in at hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 12 – Colombo / Airport
After breakfast leave to the airport for the departure flight.
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive).
You will be met and assisted by our airport staff on arrival and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country. On arrival in Colombo, check in at the hotel. After a short break, commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a BuddhistTtemple and a Hindu Kovil, to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people.On completion of the tour, return to the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 02 – Colombo / Anuradhapura
After breakfast at the hotel leave for Anuradhapura. (206 km approx. 5 hour drive). On arrival, in Anuradhapura, visit the sacred ancient city founded in the 04th century B.C a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. It has the largest number of ancient monuments of the great Sinhala civilization which flourished in this region. You will see some of the most famous as well as the tallest dagobas of Sri Lanka, Ruwanweliseya Dagoba, 2nd century BC with its famous elephant walls and the 3rd century BC Thuparama Dagoba. Ruins of ancient royal palaces specially the pillars of the Brazen Palace, which once had nine storeys, temples, the image of the Samadhi Buddha one of the finest pieces of Buddhist sculpture, monasteries, the twin ponds, guard stones and the moonstone. The ‘Sri Maha Bodhi’ or the sacred Bo tree is over 2200 years old grown from a branch of the very tree under which “The Buddha” attained enlightenment – the oldest historically documented tree in the world.
Continue to Habarana, a small village with excellent hotel accommodation which is a central location for all the ancient city sites. (57km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive)Overnight stay at a hotel in Habarana
Day 03 – Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa
After breakfast at hotel, leave for Sigiriya (24 km- approx. ½ hour drive) and climb the Rock Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage site - 1982) built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The Lion Rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 metres from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall.
Thereafter, leave for Polonnaruwa, UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982, the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century. On arrival in Polonnaruwa visit the well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. which still remain), graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Of these the ‘Vatadage’ and the ‘Thuparama Image House’ are the most spectacular. 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.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Habarana
Overnight stay at a hotel in Habarana
Day 04 – Dambulla / Kandy
After breakfast at the hotel leave for Dambulla (25 km approx.1/2 hour drive) and visit the famous Golden Rock CaveTemple which was declared a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1991. 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 complexes 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. The ceiling of one cavern is fully illustrated with paintings that follow the natural folds of the rock so closely that it appears to be made of cloth. The complex of caves is one of the most impressive Buddhist Temples in the world.
Thereafter leave for Kandy (79 km – approx. 3 hour drive) a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1988. En route visit a Spice Garden in Matale. On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel. After a short break, commence a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the bustling hill country capital. Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August. Also visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed. Late evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural Show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 05 –Pinnawela / Ratnapura
After breakfast leave for Pinnawela and visit the Elephant Orphanage. (50 km, approx. 1 hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.).
Thereafter leave for Ratnapura, the Sri Lanka’s Gem city (142 km, approx. 4 hours). On arrival in Ratnapura commence a sightseeing tour of the city. Ratnapura is the world’s richest treasure house of gems. Rare sparkling precious and semi-precious stones are found in the rich soil that covers the entire district. A visit to this city of gems is a must for any visitor. It is a city set amidst a mix of paddy fields, rubber and tea plantations which give a scenic backdrop to this legendary city of a thousand gems. On completion, check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Ratnapura
Day 06 – Ratnapura / Sinharaja / Galle
After breakfast leave for the Sinharaja Forest Reserve (22 km, approx. 1 hour). It is the least disturbed and biologically unique lowland rain forest remaining in Sri Lanka. It is a treasure trove of endemic species including trees, insects, amphibians, reptiles, birds and mammals. Because of the dense vegetation wildlife is not as easily seen as at dry zone national parks as Yala. Bird watching is particularly interesting as it is home to 95% of the endemic birds of Sri Lanka.
Afterwards proceed to Galle. (210 km, approx. 5 hour drive). Galle, the capital of the Southern Province lies 116 km south of Colombo. Its historic Fort 90 acres in extent was originally founded by the Portugese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663. It was nominated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The Fort houses many important Dutch buildings including a Dutch period museum. Galle is famous for hand made lace, tortoise shell curios and ebony elephants.Overnight stay at a hotel in Galle.
Day 07 – Galle / Mt.Lavinia
After breakfast commence a sightseeing tour of Galle. Visit the Fort, a Dutch Church, the Natural Harbour, the Dutch Cultural Museum and the National Maritime Museum.Afterwards proceed to Mt Lavinia ( 104 km, approx. 3 hour drive).
Overnight stay at a hotel in Mt Lavinia.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Mt Lavinia.
Day 08
After breakfast leave to the airport for the departure flight (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive).
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country (30 km -1 hour drive). On arrival in Colombo, check in at the hotel. Evening Visit the Panchamuga Anjaneyar Temple which is a temple dedicated to Anjaneyar.(Hanuman), the only temple in the world to have a chariot for Anjaneyar. This Chariot festival is held annually end December /beginning of January. After completing worship at the temple, leave for the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 02 – Colombo / Sigiriya / Dambulla
After an early breakfast at hotel leave for Sigiriya (173 km, approx. 4 hour drive) and climb the rock fortress a UNESCO World Heritage site, built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The Lion Rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 meters from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 feet high Mirror Wall.
Afterwards leave for Dambulla ( 25 km, approx. ½ hour drive) which has been declared as 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. The ceiling of one cavern is fully illustrated with paintings that follow the natural folds of the rock so closely that it appears to be made of cloth. The complex of caves is one of the most impressive Buddhist Temples in the world. On completion check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla.
Day 03 – Dambulla / Trincomalee / Dambulla
After an early breakfast at hotel leave for Trincomalee (109 km, approx. 3 hour drive) and visit and worship the Thirukoneswaram temple. Thirukoneswaram is one of the five Eswaram-Sivan temples in Sri Lanka. This temple is situated on the topmost pinnacle of the Swami Rock and is known as the Southern Kailasam. It was built by sage Agastyar as per the instructions of Lord Shiva who was impressed by the devotion of King Rawana. This place has the uniqueness of the Lord building a temple for his devotee as a reward for his devotion. Lord Rama also offered his prayers on his return to rid himself of the Brahmaasthi Dosham. On completion leave for Dambulla and check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla.
Day 04 - Dambulla / Polonnaruwa / Kandy
After breakfast at hotel leave for Polonnaruwa. (67 km – approx. 1½ hour drive), the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century, a well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. which still remain),graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Of these the ‘Vatadage’ and the ‘Thuparama Image House’ are the most spectacular. 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. Afterwards leave for Kandy. (140 km, approx. 3 hour drive).En route visit a Spice garden in Matale.
Kandy, the bustling hill country capital is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It is famous for the pink painted Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha, the Kandy Lake built in 1807 which is an attractive centerpiece to the town and the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August. On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel. Evening visit the sacred Temple of Tooth. Thereafter enjoy the Kandyan Cultural Show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking display. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 05 - Kandy / Gurulupota / Sita Kotuwa / Weragantota
After an early breakfast at hotel, leave for Gurulupotha.( 60 km, approx. 2 hour drive).This was an aircraft repair center in the capital city. In Valmiki's depiction King Ravana's Vimana resembled a huge peacock. The Vimana in Sinhala language means Dhandu Monara which is known as ‘flying peacock’, and hence the name Gurulupotha, which means ‘parts of birds’. Next visit the Sita Kotuwa the jungles in which once stood the in the city of Lankapura. The city had a beautiful palace for Queen Mandothari, surrounded by waterfalls, streams and many varieties of flora and fauna. Sitadevi was kept in this palace until she was moved to Ashoka Vatika. Sita Kotuwa which means Sita’s Fort derives its name from Sita Devi’s presence here.
Afterwards visit Weragantota close to Mahiyangana town.(6 km, approx. 15 mins. drive). In the Sinhalese language, Weragantota means a place for aircraft to land. It is believed to be the place where Sitadevi was first brought into Lanka in King Ravana’s Vimana. On completion, return to Kandy and check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Afterwards visit Weragantota close to Mahiyangana town.(6 km, approx. 15 mins. drive). In the Sinhalese language, Weragantota means a place for aircraft to land. It is believed to be the place where Sitadevi was first brought into Lanka in King Ravana’s Vimana. On completion, return to Kandy and check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
Day 06 - Kandy / Pinnawala / Hanuman Kovil / Ramboda
After an early breakfast at the hotel leave for Pinnawala ( 50 km, approx. 2 hour drive). Visit the Elephant Orphanage. This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m.,1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). On completion leave for Ramboda. (54 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive). Visit the Sri Baktha Hanuman temple. On these hills of Ramboda where Hanuman was searching for Sitadevi, Chinmaya Mission of Sri Lanka built a temple with Hanuman as the presiding deity. On every full moon day special poojas are conducted and witnessed by thousands of devotees. The image of Lord Hanuman here is 16 feet. On completion check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Ramboda.
Day 07 - Ramboda / Sita’s tear pond / Chariot path / Manikattuteru
After an early breakfast at hotel, walk through the tea estate and climb up to where Sita’s tear pond is located, believed to have been formed by the tears of Sitadevi and has not dried up since, even during severe droughts when the adjoining rivers dry up. The barren land here in this jungle on the top of Ramboda Hill between King Ravana’s capital city and Ashoka Vatika is believed to be the route taken by King Ravana when he took Sitadevi from his capital city Lankapura to Ashoka Vatika, which was the paradise on earth. To date no vegetation grows on this path except grass. King Ravana is believed to have taken this path on top of these hills to show Sitadevi the beauty of his kingdom.
On completion leave for Labukelle Estate (12 km, approx. ½ hour drive) and visit Manikattutheru. This is a rock in the Labookelle estate. Lord Hanuman met Sitadevi and on his way to announce this happy information to Lord Rama, rested on this hill top. The hilltop where Lord Hanuman is believed to have rested after meeting Sitadevi is known as Mani Kattuther. Today an open temple with statues of Lord Rama, Sitadevi, Lakshmana and Lord Hanuman stands on top of it. Locals visit the temple often. Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
Day 08 - Nuwara Eliya / Gawagala / Seeta Amman Kovil / Divrumpola / Istreepura
After an early breakfast at hotel leave for Gavagala (Ghoshala).(20 km, approx. 1 hour drive). King Ravana had his dairy farm here. Milk was air lifted to the capital Lankapura from here using Vimana’s. The stone pillars here have the worn out marks cast by constant use of tying ropes on them.
Thereafter leave for Seeta Amman Kovil “A Temple for Lord Rama, Sita Devi, Luxshmana, and Hanuman.(27 km, approx. 1 hour drive). There is a stream by the side of the temple where Sitadevi is said to have bathed. It is interesting to note that foot prints akin to Lord Hanuman’s are found by this river, some of which are of small size and some large size. This demonstrates the immense power of Hanuman who was able to transforming himself to any size.
On completion leave for Divrumpola Temple.(20 km, approx. ½ hour drive). Although this temple is said to be established in the 6th A.D. (Polonnaruwa period) it is thought that it has been started during the time of Rama, Ravana and Sita. Still revered by thousands, this holy haven was the place where Sita performed her ‘Agni Parishka’ (proving her chastity) to her husband Rama. It is said that this placed was given the name Divurumpola which means a place for making a vow. This name is seen inscribed in the moonstone guarding the Devale.
On completion leave for Divrumpola Temple.(20 km, approx. ½ hour drive). Although this temple is said to be established in the 6th A.D. (Polonnaruwa period) it is thought that it has been started during the time of Rama, Ravana and Sita. Still revered by thousands, this holy haven was the place where Sita performed her ‘Agni Parishka’ (proving her chastity) to her husband Rama. It is said that this placed was given the name Divurumpola which means a place for making a vow. This name is seen inscribed in the moonstone guarding the Devale.
Later proceed to Istripura which in the Sinhalese language means, an area of women.(30 km, approx. ½ hour drive). This was one of the locations to which King Ravana shifted Sitadevi. This was a precautionary measure which he was forced to take due to the advent of Lord Hanuman. On completion leave for Ella (35 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive) and check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.
Day 09 - Ella / Ravana cave
After breakfast at the hotel visit the Ravana cave in Ella. Ella, a small mountain near Bandarawela, boasts three locations linked to the Ramayana where, local legend dictates, Ravana hid Sita. First there is the Ravana Ella Cave situated in the massive Ella Rock. Then there is Ravana Ella Falls and a nearby pool bored out of the rock by the gushing waters where Sita is said to have bathed. The tunnels in the Ravana cave prove beyond doubt the architectural brilliance of King Ravana. These tunnels served as a quick means of transport through the hills and also as a secret passage. These tunnels networked all the important cities, airports and dairy farms. A close look at these tunnels indicates that they are man-made and not natural formations. On completion, leave for Colombo (205 km, approx. 6 hour drive). Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 10 - Colombo / Munneshwaram / Manawari
After breakfast at hotel leave for Munneswaram.(131 km, approx. 3 hour drive). It is believed that Munneswaram predates the Ramayana and a temple dedicated to Lord Shiva was located here. Munneswaram means the first temple for Shiva (Munnu + Easwaran). A Shiva Lingam was already here when lord Rama visited the place. Lord Rama after his victorious battle left for Ayodya with Sita in one of King Ravana’s Vimana’s, He felt he was being followed by “Bramhaasthi Dosham” (a malevolent black shadow) as he had killed King Ravana who was a Brahmin. When the Viand was passing over Munneswaram he felt the Vimana vibrating and realized that the Dosham was not following him at this particular point. He stopped the Vimana at this juncture asked God Shiva for a remedy. God Shiva blessed Lord Rama and advised installing and praying for four lingams at Manavari, Thiru Koneswaran, Thiru Ketheswaram and Rameshwaram in India as the only remedy to get rid of the dosham.
Thereafter leave for Manawari Temple. (20 km, approx. ½ hour drive) Manaweri is the first lingam installed and prayed by Lord Rama and to date this lingam is called Ramalinga Shivan.On completion leave for Negombo (96 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive) and check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo.
Thereafter leave for Manawari Temple. (20 km, approx. ½ hour drive) Manaweri is the first lingam installed and prayed by Lord Rama and to date this lingam is called Ramalinga Shivan.On completion leave for Negombo (96 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive) and check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo.
Day 11 -Departure
After breakfast at hotel, leave to the airport for the departure flight (8 km, approx. 15 min. drive).
Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake.You will be met and assisted by our airport staff on arrival and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). On arrival in Colombo, check in at the hotel. After a short break, visit the Kelaniya Temple or the Kelaniya Raja Maha Vihara. Situated about 12 km from Colombo, set within a sacred area of around ten acres, the Kelani Vihara stands beside the Kelani River as evidence of Buddhist tradition in this country. Buddhists believe the temple to have been hallowed during the third and final visit of the Buddha to Sri Lanka, eight years after gaining enlightenment. Its history would thus go back to before 500 BCE.The Mahawansa records that the original Stupa at Kelaniya enshrined a gem-studded throne on which the Buddha sat and preached.
The temple flourished during the Kotte era but much of its land was confiscated during the Portuguese empire. Under the Dutch empire, however, there were new gifts of land and under the patronage of King Kirthi Sri Rajasingha the temple was rebuilt. It was refurbished in the first half of the twentieth century with the help of Helena Wijewardana.
The temple is also famous for its image of the reclining Buddha and paintings which depict important events in the life of the Buddha, in the history of Buddhism in Sri Lanka, also incidents from the Jataka tales. It is the venue for the Duruthu Maha Perehera procession each January. An 18-foot stone statue of the Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara has been erected at the temple.
Afterwards, leave for Gangaramaya in Colombo. Gangaramya, originally a small hermitage on a piece of marshy land was transformed into a nationally and internationally famous Vihara by Ven. Dewundara Sri Jinaratana Nayaka Thero. Winning the hearts of the Buddhists as well as the non - Buddhists of the area and with their support in a short time he transformed the little hermitage to the famous Gangaramaya of today, as a memento to his revered Guru teacher Ven. Hikkaduwe Sri Sumangala Nayaka Thero.
Today Gangaramaya is not only a place of worship; it is also a centre of learning. It has the main features of a Vihara (temple), the Cetiya (Pagoda) the Bodhitree, the Vihara Mandiraya, the Simamalaka and the Relic Chamber. In addition, a museum, a library, residential hall, a three-storied Pirivena, educational halls and an alms hall are also on the premises. All the subsequent incumbents of Gangaramaya have had the will, the drive and the energy to serve the public in religious, cultural and national matters. For over a century from 1890, it has been making a valuable contribution to the traditions of Viharas and Pirivenas. It has also been instrumental in establishing the Buddhist temple in Staten Island (U.S.A.) the Buddhist Center in New York, Birmingham Buddhist Vihara (U.K) and the Buddhist Centre in Tanzania, thereby helping to propagate the Dhamma in foreign countries. On completion check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 02 - Colombo / Dambulla / Pidurangala
After an early breakfast at the hotel leave for Dambulla ( 148 km, approx. 3 hour drive) to visit the famous Golden Rock Cave Temple 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 complexes in Sri Lanka.
The complex of caves is one of the most impressive Buddhist Temples in the world. This has been inhabited by monks for at least 2000 years and was known in ancient times as Jambukola. This monastery was known as Jambukola Vihara. By perhaps the 8th or 9th century enthusiasm for the ascetic cave dwelling lifestyle began to wane and the monks moved out of the caves into a monastery at the foot of the hill and the large cave was given over to ceremonial use. It was artificially enlarged and five temples were built in it. In the 12th century King Nissankamalla came on pilgrimage to Dambulla and ‘had the lying, sitting and standing Buddha images in the cave gilded, celebrated a great puja at the cost of seven hundred thousand gold pieces and renamed the cave the 'Golden Rock Cave’. Most of the numerous paintings at Dambulla were done in the 18th and early 19th century while a few were done in the early 20th century.
The complex of caves is one of the most impressive Buddhist Temples in the world. This has been inhabited by monks for at least 2000 years and was known in ancient times as Jambukola. This monastery was known as Jambukola Vihara. By perhaps the 8th or 9th century enthusiasm for the ascetic cave dwelling lifestyle began to wane and the monks moved out of the caves into a monastery at the foot of the hill and the large cave was given over to ceremonial use. It was artificially enlarged and five temples were built in it. In the 12th century King Nissankamalla came on pilgrimage to Dambulla and ‘had the lying, sitting and standing Buddha images in the cave gilded, celebrated a great puja at the cost of seven hundred thousand gold pieces and renamed the cave the 'Golden Rock Cave’. Most of the numerous paintings at Dambulla were done in the 18th and early 19th century while a few were done in the early 20th century.
On passing through the entrance gate one can see on the right, an inscription carved on the rock. The inscription was written after King Nissankamalla visited Dambulla during one of his numerous inspection tours. Nissankamalla describes the endowments he made to the monastery.
The first cave called the Dev-Raja-Viharaya or the Temple of the King of the Gods derives its name from the traditional story that Sakka who is the king of the Gods gave the finishing touches to the principal statue within it. This reclining image of the Buddha depicts the Parinibbana or the passing away of the Buddha. The statue is about 47 ft. in length and typical of late Anuradhapura sculpture has been well preserved. This cave holds five other images and innumerable wall and ceiling paintings which are now faded and blackened by smoke from oil lamps and incense burnt by devotees.
The next cave, the Maharaja Lena, is the largest and most important temple at Dambulla. Enter the Maharaja Lena by the second of the two doors. The cave is 122 feet long, 75 feet wide and 21 feet high at its highest point. On the left as you enter is a fine statue which popular tradition says is of King Valagambahu but is more likely of a bodhisattva. Directly in front of you across the floor as you enter is the temple’s main image, a life-size Buddha standing under a dragon arch. Where the paint has peeled off one can see the gold leaf below. This is probably the gilding done by Nissankamalla in the 12 century. This cave contains fifty three images, most of them of the Buddha in different postures. The entire wall surface of the cave is a mosaic of brilliantly coloured paintings.
The Mahaatula Lena, the second largest temple at Dambulla is 90 feet long, 80 feet wide and 36 feet high at the highest point. Directly in front of you as you enter is a large seated Buddha image flanked by two standing images. On completion leave for Pidurangala.(27 km, approx. ½ hour drive).
Pidurangala is a mountain about one kilometer from Sigiriya. At the bottom is a functioning monastery. All along the rocky path up, one comes across caves which were used by monks as early as the first century BC. Near the top is the colossal reclining Buddha image which has been recently restored. There the path ends, but one can reach the summit by climbing over rocks, from which the view, including Sigiriya itself, is breath-taking. On the summit, there are the remains and indications of a monastic building and a stupa. On completion check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 03 - Dambulla / Aukana / Anuradhapura
After an early breakfast at the hotel proceed to Aukana (35 km, approx. 1 hour drive) to see the statue of the Aukana Buddha, undoubtedly the most magnificent undamaged ancient image in the island. The 5th century statue ascribed to King Dhatusena is 13 meters high standing beneath a recently constructed brick shelter. Aukana means ‘sun eating’ and is best viewed when the sun rises. To see the beauty of this geometrically designed rock statue one must be present during a a rain shower. One will see how balanced the rock carving is that the water flowing from the head comes down the forehead and on to the nose and drops down exactly between the feet. To feel the force and the universal kindness flowing out of Lord Buddha’s face, watch Him at dawn when sunlight hits the top of the statue. It is an unforgettable experience.
Afterwards leave for Anuradhapura (62 km, approx. 2 hour drive). On arrival visit the sacred and ancient city founded in the 04th century B.C a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1982. It has the largest number of ancient monuments of the great Sinhala civilization which flourished in this region.
The ‘Sri Mahabodhi’ or the Sacred Bo Tree (Ficus religiosa). It is the oldest historically documented tree in the world (2,250 years) grown from a branch of the very tree under which at Buddha Gaya in North India – the prince Siddhartha himself attained Enlightenment.
The Ruwanwelisaya Dagoba, is considered a marvel for its architectural qualities and sacred to many Buddhists all over the world. It was built by King Dutugemunu in the 2nd century BC. It is one of the world's tallest monuments, standing at 300 ft (92 m) and with a circumference of 950 ft (292 m). The surrounding wall is decorated with 1,900 figures of elephants - 475 on each side.
The Thuparama Dagoba – This most ancient of Sri Lanka dagobas was built by King Dewanampiyatissa in the 3rd century BC to enshrine the Buddha’s collar bone.The Abhayagiri Dagaba an important ancient Therawada Buddhist Monastic centre (Vihara) built by King Vattagamani Abhaya.(29-17 BC) is one of the most extensive ruins in the world. Historically it was a great monastic centre as well as a royal capital, with magnificent monateries rising to many stories, roofed with gilt bronze or tiles of burnt clay glazed in brilliant colors. To the north of the city, encircled by great walls and containing elaborate bathing ponds, carved balustrades and moonstones, stood "Abhayagiri", one of seventeen such religious units in Anuradhapura and the largest of its five major viharas.
The Mirisaveti Stupa was constructed by King Dutugamunu after defeating King Elara, After placing the Buddha relics in the sceptre, he had gone to Tisawewa for a bath leaving the sceptre. After the bath he returned to the place where the sceptre was placed, and it is said that it could not be moved. The stupa was built in the place where the sceptre stood.
The Brazen Palace – Lovamahapaya – also known as the Lohaprasadaya is an ancient royal palace which once had nine storeys. It is situated between Ruvanveliseya and Sri Mahabodiya.. A roof of copper tiles over this primordial skyscraper earned for it, its name, Brazen Palace. This work of King Dutugemunu is known to have been burned down only 15 years after its building.
The Samadhi Buddha
This 4th Century (c) AD statue of the Buddha in meditative posture is acknowledged world wide as a masterpiece, one of the finest pieces of Buddhist sculpture.
The Kuttam Pokuna (Twin Ponds)
Among the finest and exquisite constructions of the period are these Twin Ponds belonging to the Abhayagiri establishment. On completion check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Anuradhapura.
Among the finest and exquisite constructions of the period are these Twin Ponds belonging to the Abhayagiri establishment. On completion check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 04 - Mihintale / Kaludiya Pokuna
Early morning leave for Mihintale.(12 km, approx. ½ hour drive) In the 3rd century BC, area of Mihinthalawa was a thick jungle area inhibited by wild animals and was a hunting ground reserved for the royals. All this changed in 250 BC when the son of the Indian Emperor Asoka, Mahinda Maha Thero arrived at the Missaka Pauwa to meet king Devamnampiyatissa for the first time and asked the famous questions to decide whether he is intelligent enough to understand the philosophy of the Buddha. Initially Mahinda Maha Thero’s residence, but later Mihinthale became a main centre for Theravada Buddhism.
Mihinthale is a collection of four mountains each about 1000 feet in height. They are Mihinthalawa , Ath Vehera mountain, Anaikutti mountain and Rajagiri Lena mountain. Mihinthalawa is the main mountain and where the Aradhana gala (The rock of invitation) and the main Mahaseya stupa is situated.
Mihinthale is a collection of four mountains each about 1000 feet in height. They are Mihinthalawa , Ath Vehera mountain, Anaikutti mountain and Rajagiri Lena mountain. Mihinthalawa is the main mountain and where the Aradhana gala (The rock of invitation) and the main Mahaseya stupa is situated.
Places of sacred and archeological interest in Mihinthale Aradhana Gala (Rock of Invitation) , Assembly hall , Bathge (The Refectory), Eth Vehera , Indikatu seya aramic complex , Kaludiya Pokuna, Kantaka Chethiya , Maha Seya, Mihindu Guhava ( Cave of Mahinda Maha Thero), Mihindu Seya, Naga Pokuna, Rajagiri Kanda, Relic House and the Inscription of King Mahinda IV, Sila Stupa and the Vatadage, Veda Sala (The Hospital complex)
On completion leave for the Meditation centre at Kaludiya Pokuna forest. (12 km, approx. ½ hour drive).Kaludiya Pokuna, or the black water pool is said have taken its name from the sombre reflections of trees and boulders in the surrounding jungle. This pond is the largest of the ponds at Mihintale. Some believe that it may probably be the ancient Porodini Pokuna mentioned in the Mihintale tablets of Mahinda IV. Around the pond are the remains of an Aramaya consisting of bathing houses, meditation halls and walled caves and two dagobas. This is the best place for anyone interested in meditation. After having a discussion with a senior monk leave for Anuradhapura(12 km, approx. ½ hour drive) for your night stay. Overnight stay at a hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 05 - Tapo Wanaya / Anuradhapura
Early morning leave for “Tapo Wanaya” in which Monk and hermits engage in deep meditation. You will be coached by a senior meditator or by a hermit.. Full day will be spent in this forest. Late evening leave for Anuradhapura and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Anuradhapura.
Day 06 - Matale / Aluwiharaya / Kandy
After an early breakfast at hotel leave for Kandy.(138 km, 3 hour drive) En route visit the Aluviharaya. The history of Alu Viharaya also could be traced back to the reign of King Valagmba. It is believed that Alu Viharaya is a cave where King Valagmaba was hiding at one time when he lost the throne due to a South Indian invasion. After defeating the invaders and having established himself on the throne again, he constructed various Temples and Dagabas. It is said that King Valagmaba had donated this cave to the Maha Sangha ( Fraternity of Buddhist Monks) after he defeated the invaders and became the King of Sri Lanka again.
This temple had been constructed in the 1st century BC. It is at Alu Viharaya that the ‘Thripitakaya( The doctrine of the Buddha is in Three Segments) called ‘Pitakas’ and are referred to as “Three Baskets ‘ in English) was committed to writing. Until then the doctrine of the Buddha was committed to memory by Buddhist Monks and was handed down from one generation to another by word of mouth. On completion leave for Kandy (25 km, approx. 1 hour drive) and on arrival check in at the hotel.
Evening visit the Temple of Tooth, commonly known as "Sri Dalada Maligawa" is situated in the city of hills, Kandy. It is an important shrine for Buddhists as it holds the tooth relic of Lord Buddha. It is famous for its carvings and the beautiful art that is unique to Sri Lanka. The most important part of the Dalada Maligawa is the Pathirppuwa (Octagon). The Sri Dalada Maligawa is the most sacred temple in the whole of Sri Lanka. Thousands of people line up each day to get a glimpse of its majesty. The tooth relic was brought to Sri Lanka in the 4th century AD due to the cruel war in India. The ruler of India, King Guhasiva, was afraid that he might lose the battle and therefore lose the tooth relic. So the King decided to send the tooth relic to Sri Lanka because it was a strong Buddhist country. King Guhasiva trusted Sri Lanka to treat the tooth relic highly because there was a strong relationship between the two countries. Prince Dhantha and Princess Hemamala brought the tooth relic to Sri Lanka. The tooth relic is now kept on the top floor of the "Vadahitina Maligawa" so that thousands of people could worship it. The arrival of the tooth relic had a great influence to Sri Lanka. Evening witness “Thewawa” (services to the sacred tooth). Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy
Day 07 -Kandy.
Early morning visit the Sacred Temple of Tooth Relic (06.30 am). Full day at leisure.Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy.
08 Day - Kandy / Ella / Buduruwagala
After breakfast at the hotel leave for Buduruwagala via Nuwara Eliya. Enroute visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed.
Thereafter proceed to Nuwara Eliya (77 km, approx.3 hour drive). Set in the heart of the Tea Country, situated 1890 meters above sea level, this beautiful town of Nuwara-Eliya is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges.
En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea which is mainly meant for export markets. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya commence a sightseeing tour in the city. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf Course in Asia) the Hill Club, and drive around this hill station viewing Lake Gregory.
Afterwards leave for Buduruwagala.(100 km. approx. 3 hour drive). The Rock Carvings of Buduruwagala - at the centre of the outcrop is the most imposing figure, a carving of the Buddha, fifteen metres high. This is not only the tallest standing Buddha statue in Sri Lanka but quite possibly the tallest stone Buddha statue in the world since the Bamian statues in Afganistan were destroyed by the Taliban. While portions of this image are well preserved, time and the elements have taken their toll and the finer details have disappeared. On completion leave for Ella(39 km, approx. 1 hour drive) and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Ella.
09 Day - Ella / Maligavila / Katharagama
Early morning leave for Maligawila (58 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive) and visit the Free standing Buddha statue of 6th century AD origin. This Buddha statue of 42 feet height is the largest free-standing crystalline time stone-hewn statue in the island. There is strong evidence that the largest Image House in the island (of a length and breadth of 80 x 80 feet) had once circumscribed this gigantic statue. Here you may also visit the Bodhisatwa statue. Just left to the stairway to the Bodhisattva statue lies a pillar inscription protected by a newly built structure. This stone pillar is said to have been placed by King Mahinda IV (956-972 AD) on his 10th year of reign. This inscription records the work done by the king to uplift Buddhism and has some rules laid down by him regarding the administration of Buddhist sites. On completion leave for Kataragama. (58 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive)
Kataragama is famed island-wide by all walks of life since it is where Buddhists, Hindus and Muslims all offer prayers. Probably one of the only places in the world to welcome devotees from three different religious, Kataragama comes alive in July / August when colorful festivals are thronged with Sri Lankans proving their worth by walking on hot coals or grotesquely sticking hooks through their skin to the tune of drummers beside parading costumed elephants and frenetic dancers. On completion check in at the hotel.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Yala.
Overnight stay at a hotel in Yala.
Day 10 - Situlpawwa / Mulgirigala / Wewrukannala / Hambantota
Early morning leave for Situlpawwa (24 km, approx. 45 min. drive). Situlpawwa Rock Temple is historically significant and identified as one of the greatest 2nd century sites of Buddhist scholarship. with a history of over 2200 years, this is an ancient place of worship in the Hambantota district. The modern name Situlpawwa is derived from the ancient “Cittalpabbata” “ the hill of the quiet mind”. It is said that in the 1st century AD as many as 12.000 Arahants lived here (monks that have achieved the highest mind level in Buddhism). Unlike the great monasteries in Anuradhapura and other towns, life at Situlpawwa was hard and a monk or nun lived there only if they were interested in silence and solitude. Located opposite the Maha Situlpawwa rock which is 400 feet (122m) in height is a cave temple. This cave temple, which is 67 feet high and 30 feet long, is part of the intricate cave-complex at Situlpawwa. On completion leave for Mulgirigala ( 113 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive). The most imposing rock temple in the south of the island is situated on an isolated rock 210m high.
The various cave temples of Mulgirigala contain fine murals of historical importance, which have been created during different periods of Sri Lankan history. In some of the most recent murals, white men in Portuguese and Dutch uniforms can be seen, signifying the advent of the European colonization of Sri Lanka. However, Mulgirigala is most famous for the discovery made here by the English colonial administrator George Turnour. In the year 1826, he found some ‘Olas’ (palm-leaf manuscripts) in the library of one of its temples. After translating these from Pali to English he found that he had discovered the key to translating one of the ancient Chronicles of Sri Lanka, the “Mahawamsa”. This is one of three ancient Chronicles which together form the uninterrupted historical record of the Buddhist and Dravidian kings of Sri Lanka from 543 BC until the British takeover of Sri Lanka in 1815 AD. The translation enabled scholars to piece together the eventful history of the island.
On completion leave for Wewrukannala (91 km, approx. 2 hour drive). 15 miles east of Matara is the town of Dikwella, where there is one of the most extraordinary Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, the Wewurukannala Vihara dominated by an image of a seated Buddha. It is 160ft high, the largest statue in all of Sri Lanka and dates back to the time of King Rajadhi (1782 - 1798). The temple has three parts, the oldest being about 250 years old. Afterwards check in at the hotel in Hambantota ( 77 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive) Overnight stay at a hotel in Hambantota
On completion leave for Wewrukannala (91 km, approx. 2 hour drive). 15 miles east of Matara is the town of Dikwella, where there is one of the most extraordinary Buddhist temples in Sri Lanka, the Wewurukannala Vihara dominated by an image of a seated Buddha. It is 160ft high, the largest statue in all of Sri Lanka and dates back to the time of King Rajadhi (1782 - 1798). The temple has three parts, the oldest being about 250 years old. Afterwards check in at the hotel in Hambantota ( 77 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive) Overnight stay at a hotel in Hambantota
Day 11 - Kalutara / Pahiyangala / Colombo
After breakfast leave for Kalutara (193 km, approx. 1 hour drive) and visit the Buddhist Temple. The huge dagoba of the Gangatilaka Vihara is not especially old – it was built in the 1960s – but it is notable since its hollow interior is supposedly the only one of its kind of in the world. Inside its cavernous echoing interior there is a mini-dagoba surrounded on each of the four sides by a golden Buddha, while brightly coloured Buddhist flags flap down from the ceiling. Around the edge are painted 72 depictions of the 500 Jataka stories – images of the previous births of the Buddha-to-be.On completion leave for Pahiyangala ( 35 km, approx. 1 hour drive). As the name suggests, Pahiyangala is noted for its greatest history with the arrival of Bhikkhu Fa Hsien (a Chinese Buddhist priest) from China in the 3rd century A.D. It is said that Fa Hsien Bhikkhu used this location as his resting place during his stay in Sri Lanka. The other unique feature of this place is the natural rock cave, only its kind in Asia. It is 180 ft in length and 150 ft wide and has enough space for 3000 people to accommodate at a time. At the top of the rock, there is a dense jungle covering with tropical evergreen forest. It is also home to many animal species. The temple is located at the bottom of this rock and at present it is a home for 50 Buddhist priests. The rock is formed like a cobra head. On completion leave for Colombo ( 80 km, approx. 2 hour drive) and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo.
Day 12 - Departure
After breakfast leave to the Airport for your departure flight (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive).
Birding, Camping and Trekking with Cultural Tour - 9 nights / 10 Days
Day 01 – Colombo Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country. (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive)On arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 02 – Colombo / Pinnawela / Dambulla After breakfast at hotel, leave for Dambulla. En route visit the Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawela ( 110 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). On completion leave for Dambulla (96 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive) which has been declared as 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. The ceiling of one cavern is fully illustrated with paintings that follow the natural folds of the rock so closely that it appears to be made of cloth. The complex of caves is one of the most impressive Buddhist Temples in the world. Overnight stay at a camping site in Dambulla Day 03 – Dambulla Early in the morning leave in search of birds in the dry mixed evergreen forest called Kandalama. Birds which can be seen in the forest are Sri Lanka Spur fowl, Sri Lanka Jungle fowl, Sri Lanka Grey Horn-bill, and Brown-capped Babbler. One can also see many waders and raptors including Crested Serpent Eagle, White –bellied Sea Eagle, Little and Intermediate Egrets, Eurasian Open bill and Grey Heron. Evening commence a boat safari in Kandalama. Overnight stay at a camping site in Dambulla Day 04 – Dambulla / Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa / Dambulla After breakfast at hotel, leave for Sigiriya(25 km, approx. ½ hour drive) and climb the Rock Fortress(a UNESCO World Heritage site) built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The lion rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 meters from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall. Thereafter, leave for Polonnaruwa (67 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive) the Capital of Sri Lanka from the 11th to 13th century and on arrival visit the well-planned medieval city defended by enclosing walls (around 5 km. which still remain),graced by palaces, shrines, monasteries, pavilions, parks, ponds and irrigation lakes. Polonnaruwa is strewn with ruins in a resplendent state of preservation. Of these the ‘Vatadage’ and the ‘Thuparama Image House’ are the most spectacular. 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. On completion leave for Dambulla (67 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive)and check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Dambulla. Day 05 – Dambulla / Knuckles Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast leave for Knuckles trekker’s camp, (125 km, approx. 3 hour drive) located in the Riverston (northern part of the Knuckles range) at an altitude of 1400m above sea level. It is a magical place to revel in the sheer beauty of the sun rising behind the Manigalapeak, gradually illuminating the vast valley below. This is an ideal place to enjoy being close to nature. Evening make a refreshing visit of the peaceful surroundings.Overnight stay at the Trekker’s campsite. Day 06 - Knuckles Breakfast at the camp. After breakfast full day birding in the nature trail at Knuckle’s forest. There are more than 200 bird species found in here. Among them fifteen are endemic to Sri Lanka such as Jungle fowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Small Barbet, Sri Lanka White-eye, Black headed Bulbul, Yellow eared Bulbul, Dusk blue Flycatcher, Brown capped Babbler, Sri Lankan Grackle, Sri Lankan Lorikeet, Sri Lankan Warbler, White faced Starling, Spot Wing Thrush, Sri Lankan blue Magpie and Layard’s Parakeet.Overnight stay at the Trekker’s camp. Day 07 – Knuckles / Kandy Breakfast at camp. After breakfast leave for Kandy (45 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive). On arrival commence a sightseeing tour in the city of Kandy. Sri Lanka’s hill capital Kandy was the last capital and stronghold of its independent kingdom which resisted European colonialism from the latter half of the 16th century. Kandy’s fascinating heritage sites include the moated, turreted and golden roofed Temple of the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha. Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya near the Mahaweli River, where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts Showroom. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 which is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Evening, visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Thereafter, enjoy the Kandyan Cultural Show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking show.Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy. Day 08 – Kandy / Nuwara Eliya Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast, proceed to Nuwara Eliya ( 77 km – approx. 3 hour drive). Set in the heart of Tea Country, situated 1890 meters above sea level, this beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges. En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. At the tea factory witness the process of manufacture of tea from plucking of the green leaves to packeting of the processed tea. On arrival in Nuwara Eliya check in at hotel. After refreshing yourself at the hotel, commence a sightseeing tour in the city. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf Course in Asia), the Hill Club, and drive around this Hill station viewing Lake Gregory. Visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens and Victoria Park. Evening stroll through the Galway Forest for birding. Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Day 09 – Nuwara Eliya / Horton plains / Colombo After an early breakfast leave for Horton Plains (40 km – approx.1½ hours drive), the highest plateau in the country which is one of the very important National parks in Sri Lanka especially for its topographical variations. It has unique vegetation and is famous for many rare and endemic highland birds. The most awesome physical feature of the Horton Plains is the escarpment that falls 880 meters to the lowlands of the southern region of the island. Aptly known as the ‘World’s End’ the view from the precipice of the countryside below towards the south coast is spectacular. Dawn or early morning is the best time for observing it. Horton’s plain National Park harbors 12 species of endemic birds. The following birds are recorded only at Horton Plains. Sri Lankan Blue Magpie, Dusky Blue Fly Catcher and Sri Lanka Wood pigeon. On completion, leave for Colombo. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 10 – Departure After breakfast leave for the Airport for your departure flight. (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive) Discover Nature in Deep South - 6 nights / 7 days Tour  Day 01 – Colombo Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport Katunayake. (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 02 – Colombo / Uda Walawe After an early breakfast at the hotel, leave for Udawalawe (160 km, approx. 4 hour drive). Evening commence a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. This park is an important national park in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka. This popular reserve has more than 400 wild Asian Elephants, which are relatively easy to see in this open habitat. Udawalawe also has a dozen or so leopards, although seeing this largely nocturnal carnivore requires considerable luck. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hambantota. Day 03 - Hambantota After breakfast at the hotel, leave for Bundala Visitor Centre and visit the Bird Sanctuary in Bundala. Bundala National Park, covering an area of 6216 hectares, of eco tourism appeal, is located about 250km southeast of Colombo in the Hambantota district. The park falls within the southeast arid zone of Sri Lanka, the bio diversity of this park is immense: A total of 383 plant species have been recorded from the park, including 6 endemic and 7 species that are considered nationally threatened. After dinner leave for Rakawa sanctuary for turtle night watch. The beach of Rakawa is one of Sri Lanka’s most important marine turtle nesting sites where five of world’s seven species of marine turtle come ashore to nest throughout the year. Here you may see 5 species of turtle or at least one species depending on the current situation. Overnight stay at a hotel in Hambantota Day 04 – Hambantota / Yala Breakfast at hotel. Morning at leisure in hotel. After lunch leave for Yala National Park ( 48 km, approx. 1 hour drive) and commence a jeep safari in the park, one of world’s renewed park to visit and photograph leopards. Yala National Park has a substantial elephant population along with many other species like spotted deer, sambur, wild buffalo, sloth bear, mongoose and crocodiles to name a few. Overnight stay at a hotel in Yala. Day 05 - Yala After an early breakfast, leave for Yala National Park and commence a morning jeep safari in Yala specially for watching Sloth bear and birds in the forest. Afterwards return to the hotel. After lunch leave for Yala National Park and commence an evening jeep safari. Overnight Stay at a hotel in Yala. Day 06 – Yala / Colombo After breakfast leave for Colombo. On arrival in Colombo check in at hotel. Evening, commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist Temple and a Hindu Kovil, to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 07 - Departure After breakfast leave to the airport for your departure. Explore the Birds Paradise in Sri Lanka - 12 nights / 13 Days Tour  Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country. (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). On arrival, check in at the hotel.Overnight stay at a Colombo hotel Day 2 – Colombo / Kandy After breakfast leave for Kandy. En-route visit the Kurulukele Bird Sanctuary in Kegalla.(81 km, approx. 2 hour drive). The forest Kurulukele is a significant area for birding tourism with plenty of native species. Possible noteworthy species: Ceylon Spurfowl, Ceylon Green Pigeon, Yellow-Fronted Barbet, Black-Capped Bulbul, Ceylon Hanging Parakeet, and more. Thereafter leave for Kandy(35 km, approx. 1 hour drive). Evening visit the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya, specially for birding.Overnight stay at Kandy hotel Day 3 – Kandy / Knuckles After breakfast at hotel, leave for Udawattakele (Udawatta Forest) for birding. Situated to the north of the Temple of the Tooth, this forest is about 257 acres in area and has a large number of birds. The birds seen most often within the sanctuary include the Sri Lanka Yellow-fronted Barbet (Megalaima Flavirons),Sri Lanka Layard’s Parakeet (psittacula caltropae), Sri Lanka Spurfowl, Sri Lanka Spot-Winged thrush among a number of others. On completion, leave for Knuckles (45 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive).Overnight stay at Knuckles Hotel Day 4 - Knuckles After breakfast commence birding, walking through bird trails in the dense forest. The Knuckles Conservation Forest nestles within the Knuckles Mountain Range-Sri Lanka’s misty mountain of Dumbara. Bird life abounds in this forest. Seventeen of the 23 endemic species of Sri Lanka birds are found here among the 128 species recorded so far in this area. Endemic include the Yellow-Fronted Barbet, Brown-Capped Babbler, Dusky-Blue Flycatcher, Sri Lanka Lorikeet, Sri Lanka White-Eye, Sri Lanka Jungle fowl, Sri Lanka spur fowl, Sri Lanka Grackle, Yellow-Eared Bulbul and the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie. Evening, another birding visit to the forest.Overnight stay at Knuckles Hotel Day 05 - Knuckles / Nuwara Eliya After breakfast leave for Nuwara Eliya. (125 km, approx. 4 hour drive)Nuwara Eliya, the misty city is located over 6000 feet above sea level. The drive will be through refreshing Tea Plantations covering the hills like carpets and cascading waterfalls to mesmerize you. It is popular with birdwatchers at quieter times because of the good opportunities it gives to see various species, particularly the Indian Blue Robin, Pied Thrush or Scaly Thrush lurking in the denser undergrowth. Kashmir Fly catcher is another attractive bird species found in the park. Galway's Land Bird Sanctuary, close to Lake Gregory, is another wildlife site of 0.6 km². Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya Hotel Day 06 – Nuwara Eliya / Horton Plains After breakfast leave for Horton Plains (40 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive). A highland plateau at an elevation 2134 meters comprising montane grassland and elfin forest. It is contiguous with Peak Wilderness Sanctuary. Horton plains National Park harbours 12 species of endemic birds. The following birds are recorded only for Horton Plains. Sri Lanka Blue Magpie, (Clissa Ornata), Dusky Blue Fly-Catcher (Eumyias Sordida), Sri Lanka White-Eye (Zoterops Ceylonensis), and Sri Lanka Wood Pigeon (Columba Torringtonni). Afterwards return to the hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Day 07 – Nuwara Eliya / Yala After breakfast leave for Yala. (197 km, approx. 4 ½ hour drive). On arrival at Yala, check in at hotel. Afternoon, commence a jeep safari in Yala National Park. Kumana in Yala is reputed for its avifauna. Large number of certain species congregate to nest in the mangroves in May-June. Common birds include Pelican (Pelicannus Sp.) Painted Stork (Mycteria Leucocephala), Spoonbill (Platalea Leucorodia), White Ibis (Threskiornis Melanacephalus), Open Billed Stork (Anustomus Oscitans), Purple Heron (Ardea Purpurea), Gray Heron (A. Cineria).Thereafter leave for Hotel.Overnight stay at a hotel in Yala Day 08 – Rakawa / Ussangoda / Kalamitiya / Hambantota Early morning leave for RUK area ( Rakawa, Ussangoda & Kalamitiya) near Hambantota. This area located between Tangalle and Ambalantota in the Deep South is reputed for avifauna. (67 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive). The area contains many ecological important terrestrial and wetland habitats. There is bird life, which include Cattle Egret, Intermediate Egret, Grate Egret, Asian Open bill, Eurasian spoonbill, Purple Swamp hen. Kalamatiya is famous as a birds' paradise. Out of the recorded 427 bird-species, 250 species are found in Sri Lanka. Evening leave for Bundala National Park( 2 km, approx. 5 min. drive) and view the visitor centre. Leave for Hambantota (4 km, approx. 10 min drive)Overnight stay in a hotel in Hambantota. Day 09 – Hambantota / Uda Walawe / Ratnapura After breakfast leave for Udawalawe (60 km, approx. 1 ¼ hour drive) and commence a jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park. The avifauna in the park includes a large number of Warblers (prinia ssp) together with the usual low-country birds in forested areas, and a variety of Raptors. Water birds found on the reservoir include rare visitors/breeding residents such as Indian Cormorant (Phalacrocorax fuscicollis) and Ospray (Pandion Haliaetus).Notable endemic species are, Sri Lanka Spur fowl (Galloperdix Bicalcarata), Sri Lanka jungle fowl ( Gallus Lafayettii), Malabar pied hornbill (Antrhacoceros). Evening leave for Ratnapura (60 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive).Overnight stay at a hotel in Ratnapura. Day 10 – Ratnapura / Sinharaja / Ratnapura After breakfast leave for Sinharaja Nature Reserve for birding.(60 km, approx. 1 ½ drive) One of the major features at Sinharaja is the presence of bird "Feeding Flocks”. These flocks give life to the forest which under normal conditions is silent and uneventful. It is also the highlight of bird watching in the forest. There are endemic birds to be seen in Sinharaja. They are Red-faced Malkoha, the Sri Lanka blue Magpie, the Ashy-headed Babbler, the White-headed Starling and the Green-billed Coucal the rarest of Sri Lankan birds.Overnight stay at a hotel in Ratnapura. Day 11 – Ratnapura / Sinharaja / Ratnapura After breakfast leave for Sinharaja Forest for 2nd day birding.Overnight stay at a hotel in Ratnapura Day 12 – Ratnapura / Colombo After breakfast leave for Colombo ( 101 km, approx. 3 hour drive). On arrival in Colombo, check in at hotel. Thereafter, commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people.Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo Day 13 – Departure After breakfast at the hotel leave to the Airport for your departure flight.  Day 01 – Airport / Kitulgala Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Kitulgala (115 km, approx. 3 ½ hour drive).Overnight stay at an outdoor camping site. Day 02 – Sandun Ella Breakfast at camping site. After breakfast leave for Sandun Ella (5 km, approx. 10 min. drive) for Water abseiling. You will be provided with all safety equipment and will be coached by our adventure team. Evening, start white water rafting with water activities 5km. Overnight stay at an outdoor camping site Day 03 – Nuwara Eliya Breakfast at camping site. After breakfast leave for Nuwara Eliya(62 km, approx. 2 hour drive). Set in the heart of Tea Country, situated 1890 meters above sea level, this beautiful town of Nuwara Eliya is where the British succeeded in creating an English countryside with homes in styles from Georgian to Queen Anne with well kept lawns with hedges. En route you will see some magnificent waterfalls. On arrival in the city, commence a sightseeing tour. Visit the Nuwara Eliya Town, Market place, Golf Course, (one of the finest 18 holes Golf Course in Asia), the Hill club, and drive around this Hill station viewing Lake Gregory. Evening visit the Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Day 04 – Nuwara Eliya / Horton Plains / Nuwara Eliya After an early breakfast at hotel, leave for Horton Plains (40 km, approx. 1 ½ hours drive), the highest plateau in the country. It is one of the very important National parks in Sri Lanka especially for its topographical variations. It has unique vegetation and is famous for many rare and endemic highland birds. The plain is well recognized for its bio diversity, 5% of its species of flora are found to be endemic in Sri Lanka. The most awesome physical feature of the Horton Plains is the escarpment that falls 880 meters to the lowlands of the southern region of the island. Aptly known as the ‘World’s End’ the view from the precipice of the countryside below towards the south coast is spectacular. Dawn or early morning is the best time for observing it. Ideal for nature lovers and is a significant nature trail for Nature Tourism. Commence a nature trail in the plateau, specially for birds. On completion return to Nuwara Eliya.Overnight stay at a hotel in Nuwara Eliya. Day 05 – Nuwara Eliya / Kandy Breakfast at hotel. After breakfast leave for Kandy. (79 km, approx. 3 hour drive) En route visit a tea plantation and a tea factory. Sri Lanka’s hill capital Kandy was the last capital and stronghold of its independent kingdom which resisted European colonialism from the latter half of the 16thc. Kandy’s fascinating heritage sites include the moated, turreted and golden roofed Temple of the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha . On arrival in Kandy commence a sightseeing visit of the city. Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens specially for birding. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts Showroom. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 and is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Evening Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha and later enjoy the Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking show. Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandy. Day 06 – Kandy / Sigiriya After breakfast at hotel, leave for Sigiriya ( 92 km, approx. 3 hour drive) and climb the Rock Fortress(a UNESCO World Heritage site) built by King Kassapa in the 05thcentury A.D. which was a Royal Citadel for more than 18 years. The lion rock is a citadel of unusual beauty, rising 200 meters from the scrub jungle. 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. See the famous frescoes of the “Heavenly maidens” of Sigiriya in a sheltered pocket of the rock and the 10 foot high Mirror Wall.Evening biking tour around Kandalama Lake.Overnight stay at a hotel in Kandalama Day 07 – Sigiriya / Namal Uyana / Colombo Early in the morning leave on a birding tour for Namal Uyana (70 km, approx. 2 hour drive) with a packed breakfast. Visit the pink quartz mountain and significant dry mixed evergreen forest. On completion return to the hotel for the lunch. After a short break leave for Colombo.( 173 km, approx. 4 hour drive)Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo Day 08 – Colombo / Airport Breakfast at Hotel. After breakfast leave to the Airport for your departure.(30 km, approx. 1 hour drive). STOPOVER PACKAGES - Stay in Negombo - 01 night / 2 days Day 01- Negombo Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Negombo (8 km, approx. 15 min). On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour in city of Negombo. Visit the Negombo Fishing Village. This little fishing port is a pleasure for the eyes with its fort and canals of the Dutch era. But still more interesting are the beautiful beaches where the fishermen live in houses made of coconut palm leaves and dry the fish they caught earlier that day. The colored boats and the outrigger- canoes or Oruvas sweeping in to the lagoon with their catch, the fish market, the old Dutch churches that dot the landscape & canals that stretch for hundreds of kilometers are fascinating. It is worthwhile to go on a boat trip to the lagoon or one of the old canals dating back to the Dutch colonization. Overnight stay at a hotel in Negombo. Day 02 - Negombo After breakfast beach stay at leisure. Afternoon leave to the airport for the departure flight. Stay in Colombo - 01 night / 02 days Day 01 - Colombo Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country (30 km, 1 hour drive). On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist Temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people.On completion return to the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 02 – Colombo / Departure After breakfast free time for shopping. Afternoon leave for the airport for the departure flight. Day 01- Colombo Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, (30 km, approx. 1 hour drive) the commercial capital of the country. On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. On completion return to the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 02- Pinnawela / Kandy After breakfast proceed to Pinnawala and visit the Elephant Orphanage (50 km, approx. 2 hour drive). This orphanage was set up by the government to take care of baby elephants lost or abandoned in the wild. Witness the feeding of the elephants. The baby elephants being bottle fed with milk is a heartwarming sight. Thereafter observe them as they take their daily bath in the river nearby, which affords marvelous photo opportunities. Bath time is enjoyed by all elephants, young and old alike and it is a good time to closely observe their tightly knit family structure. The young elephants are protected and cared for, by the older ones in the group and the leader of the group is respected by all. (Open from 8.30 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Daily feeding times- 9.15 a.m., 1.15 p.m. 5.00 p.m. Bathing times – 10.00 a.m., 2.00 p.m., 4.00 p.m.). Thereafter leave for Kandy(50 km, approx. 2 hour drive). En route visit a Spice Garden in Mawanella. On arrival in Kandy, check in at the hotel. Afternoon, commence a sightseeing tour of Kandy, the bustling hill country capital which is now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visit the pink painted famous Temple of the Tooth which houses the most sacred religious relic, the tooth of the Buddha. Drive past the picturesque premises of the University of Peradeniya and visit the Market Place, and an Arts & Crafts Showroom. Then drive along the Upper Lake road to get a panoramic view of the Kandy Lake built in 1807 and is an attractive centerpiece to the town. Kandy is also popular because of the annual festival known as the Esala Perahera where the inner casket covering the tooth relic of the Buddha is taken in a grand procession through the streets of the city held annually in the month of July or August. Late evening enjoy the Kandyan Cultural show at the Kandyan Arts & Cultural Centre. The show features the graceful and rhythmic dancers and drummers culminating in an impressive fire walking show. Overnight hotel in Kandy. Day 03 – Kandy / Departure Breakfast at hotel. This morning visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, where a rare collection of tropical exotic and indigenous flora including the famous Orchid House could be viewed. Thereafter leave to the airport for your departure (100 km, approx.3 hour drive). Stay in Colombo & Bentota - 02 Nights / 03 Days Day 01 Arrive at the Bandaranaike International airport, Katunayake. You will be met and assisted on arrival by our airport staff and transferred to Colombo, the commercial capital of the country.( 30 km, 1 hour drive) On arrival, check in at the hotel. Afternoon commence a sightseeing tour of the city of Colombo. Drive through the commercial and city centre area known as the “Fort”, built by the Portuguese in the 16th century where grand colonial era buildings stand alongside modern office structures. See the busy markets and noisy bazaars of Pettah, the National Museum with its fine collection of lovely antiques and art of Sri Lanka. Drive past the Town Hall, Independence Square, the B.M.I.C.H (International Convention Centre) and Cinnamon Gardens residential area and visit a Buddhist temple and a Hindu Kovil to experience the diversity of religion, ethnicity and customs of the people. On completion return to the hotel. Overnight stay at a hotel in Colombo. Day 02- Bentota After breakfast at the hotel proceed to Bentota, a tourist resort in the south with the most beautiful, wide and sandy beaches (65 km, approx. 1 ½ hour drive). On arrival in Bentota, check in at hotel. Rest of the day at leisure on the beach. Overnight stay at a hotel in Bentota. Day 03 - Departure After breakfast leave to the Airport for your departure (96 km, approx. 2 ½ hour drive). Special interest Tours We know that each individual has their own idea and expectations from each holiday. We are happy to tailor make a tour to capture all your interests, to ensure a holiday experience unlike any other. The following list are just a few of the special interest areas you can choose from. If you have any other areas of interest we would be delighted to send you more details and arrange a tour made just for you.
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