Arrive in Sri Lanka / Welcome Dinner

Plan your flights to arrive in Colombo at the Bandaranaike International Airport this morning or afternoon. Use the airport code CMB when searching for your flights. You will be met upon arrival and transferred to our hotel in the city. This evening, we explore the Capital City of Colombo on a panoramic sightseeing tour. Sri Lanka’s commercial capital and largest city, Colombo dates back over 600 years, as a trading hub for sea merchants and colonial rulers. The wide array of Buddhist and Hindu temples, mosques and churches reflect the various beliefs practiced all over the island and the beautiful facades of the old, colonial buildings contrast with the modern shopping arcades. Our tour takes you past the Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple, the Pettah bazar area, the Wolfendhal Dutch Church, the Old Parliament complex, The Bandaranaike International Memorial Hall, Nelum Pokuna Theatre, Viharamahadevi Park, Independence Square and the National Museum. Returning to our hotel, we enjoy a cocktail, canapes and introductions all around. We will have our five-course Welcome Dinner at the hotel this evening. Overnight in Colombo. (Dinner included)

Colombo Sightseeing

After an early breakfast, we proceed on a city walk with Colombo native Mark Forbes or one of his associates, on a tour that takes in both the big tourist spots as well as some unexpected out-of-the way spots. Your experience will put you at the heart of the chaotic hustle at Pettah Bazaar. Away from your usual tourist spots, you can find the colonial Dutch mansions and be a part of the history that is now Colombo City. The walk continues into the commercial hub of Colombo where you find another colonial treasure, the Old Dutch Hospital. Formerly a hospital during the 17th century, the complex is now host to high-end restaurants, bars and shops. Your walk ends here where you can take a breather and admire the artifacts and have a drink.

After lunch, we proceed to a traditional martial art performance named “Angampora.” Passed on through generations over thousands of years, it is a physical discipline which combines self-defense techniques, combat and sacred rituals. This is a unique opportunity to visit a traditional Angampora village in Colombo’s suburbs where this ancient martial art is still very much alive today. On arrival, you are greeted by an Angampora Guru who explains and demonstrates this age-old art. Next you are invited to watch an exhilarating performance of the sacred rituals set to a drumbeat. If you are feeling brave you will have the chance to learn a few moves for yourself! After the performance head back to your hotel and enjoy dinner. (All Meals)

Dambulla Cave Temple / Minneriya National Park

After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and drive to the the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Dambulla Cave Temple. Dating back to the first Century BC, it is a vast cave complex, converted into a rock temple regarded as one of the most important Buddhist monasteries. Covering the rock ceiling is the largest collection of paintings in Sri Lanka within a cave temple, and surrounding you is the highest number of Buddha statues found in one single place. We continue driving to Habarana, arriving in early afternoon in time to have lunch and check in to our rooms.
In the late afternoon, we proceed to Minneriya National Park for an afternoon game drive. Located in the North Central district of Sri Lanka, it is one of the best places on the island to see the Sri Lankan Elephant up close all year round. As well as elephants, the park is also an important habitat for the two endemic monkeys of Sri Lanka - the Purple-faced Langur and Toque Macaque. Aside from the wildlife, the impressive Minneriya tank is a reservoir built by an ancient civilization. This will be the dry season when the reservoir slowly dries out, giving way to fresh grass and shoots and attracting large herds of elephants, deer and water buffalo. We return to our hotel for dinner and a free evening. (All Meals)

Sigiriya / Polonnaruwa

After breakfast, we visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya Rock Fortress, an enormous rock boulder rising 650 feet above the surrounding jungle. Incredibly, the rock fortress was built in the fifth Century and served as a royal citadel for more than 18 years, something that seems more astonishing with every step you climb. During your ascent you will see the mirror wall, sigiri graffiti, famous frescoes and the great lion paws. Upon reaching the summit, wander through the ruins and admire the work it must have taken to build this palace all those years ago. There is even a fully functional swimming pool up here.

We proceed to Plonnaruwa, the Medieval Capital of Sri Lanka that is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here an iconic man-made reservoir was appropriately named “Parakrama Samudra”, or “the sea of Parakrama”, due to its enormous size. Watch for the famous Gal Viharaya or “Rock Temple” where you will see four colossal statues of the Buddha cut into the stone, reflecting peace, serenity and strength. Polonnaruwa also boasts ruins of ancient palaces, intricately carved moon stones and royal baths. If you are feeling a bit more energetic, this whole site can also be explored on bike and your guide will be more than happy to arrange this for you. The evening is free back at our hotel for dinner and relaxation. (All Meals)

Kandy

After breakfast, we depart for Kandy. Along the way we have a chance to participate in a cooking demonstration using traditional cooking utensils by a local village family chef. After lunch, we arrive in Kandy, the last Kingdom of Sri Lanka for which it received UNESCO World Heritage designation. You will notice a more comfortable temperature here, compared to the tropical climate prevailing throughout the rest of the island. The Sacred Temple of the Tooth is certainly the most revered and iconic place to visit in this cultural capital but other highlights include the historic Kandy Lake, the Royal Botanical Gardens and the scenic Victoria Golf Club.

This evening we take part as an interactive audience in the ceremonial dressing of a traditional Sri Lankan Chieftain locally known as ‘Nilame’ with all his jewelry. This elegant, elaborate royal costume was worn exclusively by the ancient kings and noble chieftains and forbidden to the common man. These days the only people to wear these glamorous outfits are the custodians of the island’s ancient temples, but they make appearances at the Kandy Esala Perehera and as grooms at traditional weddings. We will also see a Traditional “wes” dancer being dressed up with his century-old costume and most beautiful and elegant adornments. We will see them perform tomorrow at the Kandy Esala Perehera. (All Meals)

Kandy Sightseeing / Grand Esala Perehera Festival

This morning after breakfast, visit the famous Royal Botanical gardens in Peradeniya. Spread over 147 acres and bordered by the charming Mahaweli River - the longest in Sri Lanka - it is the largest botanical garden on the island, home to over 4,000 species of plants, ferns, shrubs, palm trees, spices and medicinal plants, all complemented by an array of butterflies and bird species. Take time to admire the incredible collection of over 300 varieties of orchids; certainly one of the garden’s highlights. The giant bamboo and double palm trees, both of which are imports to the island and many are over one hundred years old, create a natural canopy. We return to our hotel for a late lunch.

This evening experience the World Famous Grand Esala Perehera. The festival or the “grand procession” is held in honor of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha, enshrined in the Temple of the Tooth, otherwise known locally as the “Dalada Maligawa”. Over the course of ten nights the Perahara parades the streets of Kandy surrounding the temple. The colorful procession is famous for its elephants dressed in vibrant attire, traditional Kandyan dancers and drummers, Kandyan chieftains, whip crackers, torch and flag bearers and also fire dancers, all reflecting rich pageantry. Today is full moon poya day, a public holiday in Sri Lanka when the festival is at its peak, so there will be some restrictions for serving liquor in public areas. (All Meals)

Nuwara Eliya

After breakfast, our drive to Nuwara Eliya is a photographer’s paradise, with gushing waterfalls, vast tea terraces, old tea factories and expansive vegetable fields along the way. Along the way visit a Tea Plantation to expand your knowledge on the process of making the Finest Ceylon Tea. Upon arrival at Nuwara Eliya, you will notice the sudden drop in temperature. With log fires and blankets in the Victorian-style bungalows and the beautifully kept lawns and flower gardens, it is no wonder this part of the world has become known as ‘Little England’.

Visit the Haggala Botanical Gardens, Gregory’s Lake or the Seetha Amman Hindu Temple. Wander through the fruit and vegetable markets and strike a bargain at the night ‘bale’ market. Spend the rest of the day enjoying the breathtaking landscapes of Hill country. (All Meals)

Yala

After spending a couple of days in the coolest part of Sri Lanka, our journey proceeds to Yala National Park in the jungles of the south of the island. After a relaxing breakfast, we check out of our hotel and board the motorcoach for the day-long drive to Yala. We will make stops along the way to stretch our legs, get lunch and have photo stops. Upon arrival, we check into our rooms at the lodge and have the rest of the day free to relax, use the pool, and enjoy the wilderness surrroundings. Overnight in Yala. (All Meals)

Game Drives

This morning we take an early morning game drive with a packed breakfast. Our game drive takes advantage of the optimal times to spot the most animals. While searching for the elusive leopard, herds of spotted deer, Mugger crocodiles, wild boar, wild buffaloes, langurs, and peacocks also provide brilliant photograph opportunities. Bird-lovers will particularly enjoy the display of over 200 different species, including large flocks of migratory birds. We return to your hotel and refresh by enjoying lunch and relaxing until late afternoon. Later in the day, we take an evening game drive, followed by a return to our lodge for dinner and a free evening. (All Meals)

Galle

After breakfast, we drive to the UNESCO World Heritage City of Galle, the colonial capital of Sri Lanka. As we drive along the coast to Galle, we see the iconic Stilt Fisherman in action. It is an age-old fishing method practiced on the southern coast of the island and a tradition unique to Sri Lanka. Watch in awe at how carefully the fishermen must balance on a thin stilt, waiting in complete silence since the slightest disturbance will scare the fish away. If you’re feeling brave enough, try mounting the stilt yourself to try to make a catch!

We arrive at our hotel in time for a late lunch. In early evening we take a city walk along the streets of Galle, which mixes the exotic with the colonial. The impressive Fortress, originally built by the Portuguese and further fortified by the Dutch, remains standing today with only a few changes. Explore the Galle Fort on foot at your own pace, perhaps paying a visit to the Maritime Museum, the Old Dutch Reformed Church, the Sun and the Moon bastions, the lighthouse and the souvenir shops along the way. Early evening is the perfect time to climb the ramparts and sip a refreshing cup of Ceylon tea, or perhaps something stronger, as you gaze upon the setting sun. (All Meals)

Cinnamon Plantation

Outside of Galle is Villa Mayurana, a piece of paradise set among a cinnamon plantation offering magnificent views of Koggala Lake and the coastline beyond. Upon arrival, freshen up with a cinnamon-infused towel before venturing on a guided tour of the estate. Learn about the method of growing and harvesting cinnamon as well as how a cinnamon tree can be transformed into the cinnamon sticks we buy. Continue to the estate’s factory and learn how this aromatic spice is gathered for grading and how it is prepared before being sent to market. Enjoy lunch at Villa Mayurana. We return to our hotel in the afternoon for relaxation time. Tonight enjoy a special farewell reception of beer, wine & canapes before we sit down for a five-course Farewell Dinner at the hotel. (All Meals)

Departure

The tour concludes after breakfast this morning. We check out of our hotel and make the 3-hour drive north to the International Airport outside of Colombo. Most flights depart in the early evening. You can arrange your return flight at any convenient time this evening. If you are staying on in Colombo, we will be happy to assist with hotel arrangements. (Breakfast)