Welcome to the land of surprises! Your arrival at Colombo marks the beginning of a series of experiences that you are likely to cherish for a very long time to come. You will be welcomed by our representative at the Colombo Airport. A transfer to Kandy, the second largest city in Sri Lanka has been arranged. During the course of your Sri Lanka Tour, you will visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage. Established to care for abandoned elephants, this orphanage is today the largest of its kind worldwide. It houses elephants from 3 generations, a feat in itself! Overnight stay will be at a comfortable hotel at Kandy.
A sumptuous breakfast today is followed by a City Tour that will take you to the most significant attractions in the city, including the Upper Lake Drive, the Market Square and the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. You may also visit the 67-acre spread of the Royal Botanical Gardens, a depositary for the most exotic species of botanical delights. Kandy is also home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic – a much celebrated relic in the world of Buddhism. It is believed that the Buddha’s Tooth was brought to Sri Lanka, hidden in an Orison princess’ hair and protected intensely from unworthy and impious hands. This evening, be sure to enjoy a cultural event showcasing the various dance forms of Sri Lanka. Overnight at hotel.
After an early breakfast, we will check-out and begin our journey to Nuwara Eliya, the ‘Little England’ of Sri Lanka. En route, you will visit a charming tea plantation. NuwaraEliya, your destination for the day is a quaint and pristine mountain station at an altitude of about 6100ft! Arriving in Nuwara Eliya, check-in into a hotel and unwind yourself. Post this, you can also visit Seethaeliya, the place where Seetha was believed to be held captive by Ravana as per Hindu mythology; overnight stay at the hotel.
After having breakfast in the hotel, check-out and proceed towards the Yala National Park – the second largest in Sri Lanka. The park comprises of 5 blocks, 2 of which are open to public. Get your cameras ready as you will come across flora and fauna that is rather exotic and rare to find! Spot more than 200 species of birds, elephants, wild buffaloes and many other wildlife species in the park. By evening, check-in into a local hotel and retire for the night.
Today your destination will be the lovely coastal town of Bentota that was believed to be ruled by the demon named ‘Bem’. Famous for toddy production and the art of healing with Ayurveda, the town is a sought after destination for water sports and is also home to a turtle hatchery. However, while we drive down to Bentota, we will make a short stop at the city of Galle, which was built and strongly influenced by the Portugese, who ruled the city 16th century onwards. Visit the city’s natural harbour, a perfect complement to its character! You can take a walk down the old town where you can appreciate the work of traditional lace makers and carvers. Be sure to pick up a few souvenirs made of shell! Overnight stay will be in a comfortable hotel will be the perfect way to unwind and relax.
Leave for Colombo after a filling breakfast this morning! Colombo, was believed to be an integral point in as far back as the ‘Silk Route’, on account of its large harbour and strategic geographic position. Get a comprehensive feel of the city as you take a city-tour today. Visit commercial as well as residential areas, the most prominent one being Cinnamon Gardens. Visit the Sea Street and the Bazaar area, the former being the quarters for goldsmiths in Pettah. You will also walk through the Fort – the military and administration centre for the British. Witness a beautiful Hindu Temple with intricate stone carvings, the Dutch Church of Wolfendhal that dates back to 1749 and the historic Dawatagaha Mosque. The Independence Square and a replica of the Avukana Buddha are must-sees among other local attractions; overnight at a local hotel.
Enjoy a delicious breakfast before being dropped at the Airport. End the tour with memories galore and experiences diverse, yet beautiful!
