Tours

Kandy Esala Perahara - 2018

Reservation Date

Services Required

Perahara Viewing Gallery Transport Accommodation

The Palle Vahala (lower palace) or Meda Vahala (middle palace) was constructed during the Sri Vickrama Rajasingha era and was used as the quarters of the queens of King of Kandy. This building has been built according to the architectural features of Kandy period. It was used as a depository for historical artifacts made by the Kandy Art Association which was established in 1832 and artisans of Matale. The museum was opened to the public in 1942.

The museum has over 5,000 artifacts on display consist of weapons, jewelry, tools and other artifacts from the Kandian era (17-19th Century) and post British Colonial era, including a copy of the 1815 agreement that handed over the Kandyan provinces to the British. In the grounds of the museum is a statue of Sir Henry Ward a former Governor of Ceylon (1855–1860), which was originally located in front of the Queen’s Hotel.

Location and appearance

The Avukana statue is located in the village of Avukana (also spelled Aukana) near Kekirawa. It is close to the Kala Wewa reservoir, and faces it. It was carved out of a large granite rock face, but is not completely separated. A narrow strip of rock has been left at the back of the statue, connecting it to the rock face and supporting it. However, the pedestal on which the Buddha stands, which is carved in the form of a lotus flower, was carved separately and positioned under the statue. The statue alone is 38 feet 10 inches (11.84 m) in height, and with the pedestal the total height of the Avukana statue reaches 42 feet (13 m). The statue had been located within a large image house or shrine, of which parts of the walls still remain. The structure was made of brick and stone, and was 74 feet (23 m) long and 63 feet (19 m) wide.

Characteristics

The Avukana statue is considered to be one of the best examples of a standing statue of the Buddha from ancient Sri Lanka. The Avukana statue shows some influence of the Gandhara school of art, as well as the Amaravati school of art of India. The robe is worn tightly, clearly outlining the shape of the body, and its pleats are carved clearly and delicately. It is worn over the left shoulder, and the right shoulder is bare, as is the tradition in Buddha statues of Sri Lanka. The Buddha’s body is straight, and the left hand clutches the robe at the left shoulder. The right hand is raised up to the right shoulder, with the palm facing left. This position is known as the Asisa mudra, a variation of the Abhaya mudra.

Construction

The Avukana statue is widely believed to have been constructed in the 5th century during the reign of King Dhatusena, and under his orders. However, another theory is that it was done by an individual named Barana. There is another nearby standing statue of the Buddha, quite similar to the Avukana statue, at Sasseruwa. According to legend, the two statues are the result of a competition between a stone sculpting guru (master) and gola (pupil). The story goes that the master constructed the Avukana statue, while the pupil made the statue at Sasseruwa. The first to complete his statue had to notify the other by ringing a bell. The master managed to complete his statue first, and won the competition. This is said to be why the Sasseruwa statue is unfinished. The Avukana statue is considered to be the better of the two, and similarities between them have led historians to believe that the story is actually true. However, that is mere legend as the Sasseruwa stature was built nearly four hundred years prior to the Avukana Buddha image. Reswehera Rajamaha Vihara is an ancient temple which was built by the king Devanampiya Tissa (307-267 BC).

On 1 March 1938, Yala became a national park when the Flora and Fauna Protection Ordinance was passed into law by D. S. Senanayake, the minister of agriculture. The park consists of five blocks. Subsequently, four other blocks were incorporated to the park. There are six national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries in the vicinity of Yala. Kumana National Park, Yala Strict Nature Reserve and Kataragama, Katagamuwa, and Nimalawa sanctuaries are continuous with the park.

There are six national parks and three wildlife sanctuaries in the vicinity of Yala. Among the largest is Lunugamvehera National Park. The park is situated in the dry semi-arid climatic region and rain is received mainly during the northeast monsoon. Yala hosts a variety of ecosystems ranging from moist monsoon forests to freshwater and marine wetlands. It is one of the 70 Important Bird Areas (IBAs) in Sri Lanka. Yala harbours 215 bird species including six endemic species of Sri Lanka. The number of mammals that has been recorded from the park is 44, and it has one of the highest leopard densities in the world.

The area around Yala has hosted several ancient civilizations. Two important pilgrim sites, Sithulpahuwa and Magul Vihara, are situated within the park. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami caused severe damage on the Yala National Park and 250 people died in its vicinity. The number of visitors has been on the rise since 2009, after the security situation in the park improved.

Thereafter, the groundwork for a botanical garden was formed by Alexandar Moon in 1821. He used the garden for coffee and cinnamon plants. The Botanical Garden at Peradeniya was formally established in 1843 with plants brought from Kew Garden, Slave Island, Colombo, and the Kalutara Garden in Kalutara. The Royal Botanic Garden, Peradeniya was made more independent and expanded under George Gardner as superintendent in 1844. On Gardner’s death in 1849 George Henry Kendrick Thwaites became superintendent. He served until he resigned in 1879, when he was succeeded by Henry Trimen, who served until 1895.

The garden came under the administration of the Department of Agriculture when it was established in 1912.

There are avenues in the River Drive such as Cook’s Pine Avenue, Palmyra Palm Avenue, Double Coconut Avenue, Cabbage Avenue, and Royal Palm Avenue. The classical Avenue of Palms is in this Garden. One item with a significant history is the Cannonball Tree planted by King George V of the United Kingdom and Queen Mary in 1901. It is often laden with fruit, which are thought to resemble cannonballs.

During World War II, the Botanic Garden was used by Lord Louis Mountbatten, the supreme commander of the allied forces in the South Asia, as the headquarters of the South East Asia Command.

The present church was built on the highest point in the Galle fort, which stands more than 12 m (39 ft) above sea level. The foundations of the church were initially laid in 1682 but further work stagnated for a number of decades. In 1755 the Commandeur of Galle, Casparus de Jong (Lord of Spanbroek), and his wife Geertruyda Adriana Le Grand donated the money for the church to be constructed as a thanksgiving for the birth of their daughter for which he had waited for many years. The child was not baptised until the church was completed. An entry in the Baptismal Register gives the date of baptism as 24 August 1755. In 1760 a second-hand organ from Colombo was installed in the church.

The church underwent various changes during the British Period. A stained glass window was built into the west façade of the church around 1830 and a communion rail was built in the south wing. At the beginning of the 20th century, a small organ was placed in the south wing. Around 1890, a canopy was built above the stained glass window to protect it from leaking.

Belfry

The church’s detached belfry, which was erected in 1701, stands over the road from the church, at the corner of Queen’s Street. The bell was cast in 1709 and was rung on Sundays to announce the services at the church.

One version of how the name Galle Face is derived, is that it is from the original Dutch name for the fortifications, in that the gateway which gave access to the Colombo Fort was called the Gal Gate, as it faced southwards to Galle and faas means front, so it literally means in front of the fortification that faced toward Galle. Another version is it is a corruption of the original name for the area’s rocky shoreline, Gal Bokka, Gal being the Sinhalese for rock and that Gal Gate actually meant rock gate.

In 1856 the then Governor of British Ceylon, Sir Henry George Ward (1797–1860) authorised the construction of a 1 mile (1.6 km) promenade along the oceanside of the Galle Face Green, for ladies and children to saunter and ‘take in the air’. The promenade was subsequently completed in 1859.

Horse racing
Horse racing began in Galle Face in the early 1820s, during the time of the then British Governor Sir Edward Barnes (1776–1838). The esplanade in front of the fort, previously a marshy area, was filled with earth and levelled for the purpose. The race course was approximately one and a half miles long. The area became known as the Colpetty Race Course, and was used for horse races until 1893 when horse racing moved to the Colombo Racecourse. The Turf and Sporting Club was also founded in the early 1820s, with the first officially recorded horse racing meet held on the Green in the 1821.

In order to view the races a pavilion was erected at the highest point of the green, it was circular in shape, with wooden framework and a thatched cadjan roof. As the years went by, the pavilion building was improved, with wooden walls replaced by bricks and made larger. A more spacious building, known as the ‘Race Bungalow’, was subsequently built on the same spot. In September 1870 a viewing gallery was added, which came to be called the ‘Grand Stand’. Later a two storey grandstand was built for members. In 1871 the Race Bungalow became the venue for the Colombo Club and since then it was referred to as the Colombo Club building. This building still stands today, with all its colonial grandeur, and is now the Crystal Ballroom of Taj Samudra Hotel.

Golf
In 1879, a number of British expatriates introduced golf to Ceylon playing on the Galle Face Green. It was there that they inaugurated the Colombo Golf Club without a clubhouse or a proper golf course. The club had its first Annual General Meeting on 13 March 1880 at the Colombo Club. in 1896 Galle Face was becoming more and more crowded and the golf club faced with having to share the ground with numerous other sports and the general public moved to its present location in Borella.

Rugby
On 30 June 1879 the first official rugby match in Ceylon was played at Galle Face Green between the newly formed Colombo Football Club and a rest of the world team. Rugby matches were then regularly played in the center of the Colpetty race track, an area shared with the golf club.

Cricket
The first Royal–Thomian cricket match played between Royal College, Colombo (at that time called Colombo Academy) and S. Thomas’ College, Mount Lavinia was played on 15–17 July 1879 at Galle Face Green, which is today the site of the Taj Samudra Hotel. It was said that the two teams had to row across the Beira Lake in boats to reach the Galle Face Grounds. Colombo Academy won the inaugural encounter by 56 runs.

The king enshrined it Meghagiri Vihara (present day Isurumuniya) in Anuradhapura. Safeguard of the relic was a responsibility of the monarch, therefore over the years the custodianship of relic became to symbolize the right to rule. Therefore, reigning monarchs built the tooth relic temples quite close to their royal residences, as was the case during the times of the Anuradhapura Kingdom, Kingdom of Polonnaruwa, and Kingdom of Dambadeniya. During the era of the Kingdom of Gampola, the relic was housed in Niyamgampaya Vihara. It is reported in the messenger poems such as Hamsa, Gira, and Selalihini that the temple of tooth relic was situated within the city of Sri Jayawardenepura Kotte when the Kingdom of Kotte was established there.

During the reign of Dharmapala of Kotte, the relic was kept hidden in Delgamuwa Vihara, Ratnapura, in a grinding stone. It was brought to Kandy by Hiripitiye Diyawadana Rala and Devanagala Rathnalankara Thera. King Vimaladharmasuriya I built a two-storey building to deposit the tooth relic and the building is now gone. In 1603 when the Portuguese invaded Kandy, it was carried to Meda Mahanuwara in Dumbara. It was recovered in the time of Rajasinha II and it has been reported that he reinstate the original building or has built a new temple. The present day temple of the tooth was built by Vira Narendra Sinha. The octagonal Paththirippuwa and moat was added during the reign of Sri Vikrama Rajasinha. The royal architect Devendra Moolacharya is credited with building the Paththirippuwa. Originally it was used by the king for recreational activities and later it was offered to the tooth relic, it now houses the temple’s library.

The temple has been attacked on two occasions, in 1989 by the Janatha Vimukthi Peramuna and then in 1998 by the militant organization Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam.

Special Tour of Geofrey Bawa

Day 01.
On your arrival in Sri Lanka you will be met by our Representative at the Airport and transferred
to Dambulla. (140 km / Approx. 03 hrs drive)
Dambulla – is a vast isolated rock mass 500 feet high and a mile around the base. Here is found
the famous Rock Temple dating to the First Century B.C. The caves of Dambulla sheltered King
Walagamba during his 14 years of exile from Anuradhapura. When he regained the throne he
built the most magnificent of Rock Temples to be found in the Island.
In the first Cave is a recumbent image of the Buddha 47ft long cut out of the Rock. There are
images of deities associated with Buddhism all around. The frescoes on the walls and the ceiling
are the oldest here but they are over painted in the Kandy period.
In the Second Cave, the finest and the largest of all, there are 150 life-size statues of the
Buddha in various postures with few statues of Gods and Kings. The ceiling is also covered with
frescoes, which depict great events in the life of the Buddha and landmarks in the history of the
Sinhalese people.
Overnight stay at Kandalama

Day 02.
After breakfast visit place called “Diya Bubula”**
Diya Bubula is a residence of Architecture Lucky Senanayaka who is a student of Mr. Geoffrey Bawa.
Transfer to Kandy.
Kandy – the hill capital is another “World Heritage Sites”. It was the last stronghold of the
Sinhalese Kings during the Portuguese, Dutch and British rule and finally ceded to the British in
1815 after an agreement.
To the Buddhist of Sri Lanka and the World, Kandy is one of the most sacred sites as it is the
home of the “Dalada Maligawa” – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Lord Buddha.
Close by are the remains of the Royal Palace (Maha Wasala), Palle Wasala- where the Queens
stayed-now used for the National Museum, Meda Wasala where other close relatives lived,
Audience Hall, Natha Devala and Vishnu Devala are situated. The Bathing Pavilion (Ulpenge) is

by the Lake and in the Center of the lake is the Island called “Kiri samudraya” (Milk white
ocean) used by the kings as the summerhouse.
Today it is the center of Buddhism, Arts, Crafts, Dancing, Music and Culture.
Visitors can see these Dance & Music at the daily Cultural Performances held at several places
in the city.
Late evening visit Temple of Tooth Relic.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

Day 03.
Breakfast at the hotel.
After breakfast proceed to Galle (230 km / Approx. 06 hrs drive)
Galle – Sri Lanka’s most historically interesting town is Galle. It was a major port until about 100
years, but today still handles shipping and sailing boats in the natural harbour.
Stroll around the lighthouse and harbour or visit the old town where you can see the traditional
lace makers and wood carvers and purchase some the finest souvenirs.
Visit Heritance Ahungalla Hotel & Jetwing Light House
Overnight stay at Galle.

Day 04.
After breakfast free for few hours in the hotel and then visit SOS Village, Galle which was
designed by architecture Anjerendran ( Mr.)
Transfer from Galle to Bentota.
Visit Bentota Beach Hotel & Avani Bentota (Former Hotel Serendib)
Overnight stay at Bentota.

Day 05
Breakfast at the hotel and morning visit LUNUGANGA GARDENS
Transfer to Wadduwa. (50 km / Approx. 01 ½ hrs drive).

En route visit Neptune Hotel & AVANI Resort Kalutara & The Blue Water Hotel,
Wadduwa.
Overnight stay at Colombo.

Day 06.
After Breakfast visit following places.
1) # 02, Alfred House Garden**, Mr. Bawa’s former office**
2) Gallery Cafe**
3) Sri Lanka Parliament** (Depend on prior approval)
Evening do a discussion with Ar. Hiranthi, Ar. Ashley De Vas & Ar. Milroy Perera who are
students of Geofrey Bawa. (Depend on prior appointments)
Overnight stay at Colombo.

Day 07
After breakfast transfer to the airport connects with departure flight.

Pilgrimage Tour

DAY 01 : AIRPORT / YAPAHUWA / RES VEHERA / ANURADHAPURA

Meet & Assist on arrival, transfer from Airport to Yapahuwa.
Midway between Airport and Anuradhapura lies the magnificent citadel of
Yapahuwa. The site’s outstanding feature is the marvelous stone stairway, which
climbs with Maya-like steepness up to the palace. Statues of elephants, makara
toranas, dwarfs, goddesses and a pair of goggle-eyed stone lions flank the stairs,
which are topped by a finely carved doorway and windows.
Transfer from Yapahuwa to Ras Vehera.
One of Sri Lanka’s most curious archaeological puzzles concerns the history of the
two massive statues of the Buddha located within 11 kilometers of each other in
the North Central Province. They are so similar – in some ways at least – that they
have been called twin statues – or Gog and Magog as they were referred to by the
founder of Sri Lankan archaeology, H. C. P. Bell, in the late 19th century.
Transfer from Ras Vehera to Anuradhapura.
Check in at Hotel – Rest till evening.
Overnight stay at Anuradhapura.

DAY 02 : ANURADHAPURA / AUKANA / POLONNARUWA

Breakfast at Hotel.
Proceed on city tour of Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka from
3rd Century BC to 11th Century AD. At its height, Anuradhapura was one of the
greatest cities of its age, functioning as the island’s center of both temporal and
spiritual power, dotted with dozens of monasteries populated by as many as
10,000 monks – one of the greatest monastic cities the world has ever seen. The
most extensive of all the ancient cities, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO world heritage
site.
Transfer from Anuradhapura to Aukana
The Aukana Buddha statue beyond doubt is the most magnificent, undamaged
statue in Sri Lanka. It was built in the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century
and is 39 ft. (12 meters) high. The Name “Aukana” means “Sun-eating”.
Overnight stay at Polonnaruwa.

DAY 03 : POLONNARUWA / DIMBULAGALA / POLONNARUWA

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Dimbulagala.
Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara is situated 16 kilometres south east of the ancient
city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. The Dimbulagala range houses a number of caves
cut into the rock with Brahmi inscriptions over their drip ledges. This forest
hermitage of medieval times and holy abode since time immemorial, home to
some of the most valued fragments of early frescoes was called the Gunners Quoin
by the British.
Transfer from Dimbulagala to Polonnaruwa.
The ruined capital of Polonnaruwa is one of the undisputed highlights of the
Cultural Triangle and is a UNESCO world heritage site. The heyday of the city in the
twelfth century represented one of the high watermarks of early Sri Lankan
civilization. Polonnaruwa’s extensive and well-preserved remains, offer a
fascinating snapshot of medieval Sri Lanka, including some of the island’s finest
monuments and it is compact enough to be thoroughly explored in 3 hours. The
Gal Vihara, a collection of magnificent Buddha statues carved out of sheer rock is
not to be missed and a prime example of the craftsmanship of that era.
Overnight stay at Polonnaruwa.

DAY 04 : POLONNARUWA / MATALE / KANDY

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Matale Aluvihare.
Visit the Aluvihare Temple. It was here, in the 2nd century B.C. that around 500
devoted monks committed to write the Buddha’s scriptures which is known as “Tripitaka”.
Transfer from Matale Aluvihare to Matale Spice & Herbal Garden.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous
for. Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are
grown and processed. Witness a Cookery demonstration.
Transfer from Matale to Kandy Gadaladeliya Temple.
This site with an ancient monastery is found on the flat rock at Diggala in the
district of Kandy. According to a inscription there this temple was built by King
Buwanekabahu IV in the year 1344. The chief architect of this temple has been a
south indian called Ganesvarachari. Therefore this temple is essentially a South
Indian design.
Transfer from Gadaladeniya Temple to Ambekke Temple.

The Ambekke Temple is a wooden temple situated in the Ambakka village in Kandy.
It was built in the 14th century by King Wickremabahu III. The temple comprises
sixteen carved wooden pillars with engravings of swans, lions, bulls, elephants and
many other animals. There are also carvings of leaves, flowers, soldiers, dancing
women and mermaids. There are a total of 128 carvings on these pillars and the
carvings are presumed to be the work of the ancient artisan, Devendra Mulachari.
Transfer from Ambekke Temple to Lankatilaka Temple.
The Lankatilaka Temple dates back to the 14th century. It is built on the summit of
a rock called Panhalgala and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding hills,
paddy fields and the diverse vegetation around it. The viharaya is built of clay bricks
and has a unique architectural design which combines Buddhist and Hindu
elements. The Lankatilaka Temple is considered to be one of the best preserved
examples of traditional Singhalese temple architecture. Built on a rock, the temple
is reached by a long series of rock cut steps. An arched passage of the image house
leads through a mandapa (hall) into the inner sanctum which is richly decorated
with beautiful floral designs. The two side walls and the ceiling are decorated with
paintings. In the inner sanctum is a colossal seated image of the Buddha.
Transfer from Lankatilaka Temple to Kandy.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 05 : KANDY

Breakfast at Hotel.
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kandy which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The
historic city about 480m above sea level surrounded by mountains was known to
Sri Lankan as Kanda Uda Rata, which means the hill country. Kandy was home to Sri
Lanka’s last independent Kingdom, which survived two centuries of colonial
incursion before finally falling to the British at the beginning of the nineteenth
century.
Proceed to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic. The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace
complex which houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the
relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that
whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Kandy was the last
capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO world heritage site partly due to the
temple.
Transfer from Kandy Temple of the Tooth Relic to Peradeniya.
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens Set 6km southwest of Kandy in a loop in the
Mahaweli Ganga lie the expansive Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, the largest and
finest gardens in Sri Lanka, covering almost 150 acres and stuffed with a
bewildering variety of local and foreign tree and plant species.
Transfer from Peradeniya to Kandy Museum.

The Kandy Museum this building established during Sri Wickrama Rajasingha era
was then known as “Palle Vahala” This was used as the palace where the Queens of
the king lived. This building has been built according to the architectural features of
Kandy period. This pallevahala building was used to deposit the various items of
historical value made by Kandy Art Association established in 1832 and technicians
of Matale district. This was opened for the public as a museum 1942.
Transfer from Kandy Museum to Degaldoruwa Temple
The Degaldoruwa Temple was built in 1771 AD by King Rajadi Rajasinha and was
initiated during the reign of his elder brother King Kirti Sri Rajasinha [1747-1782
AD].This is considered as a Cave Temple with Kandyan era Paintings and
Architecture.
This temple is situated at Amunugama, a village near Kandy Town.The easiest way
It can be reached from Kandy is via the roadway over Lewella Bridge or by
proceeding along Kundasale road and turning left at Nattarampota.
Transfer from Degaldoruwa Temple to Kandy.
Early evening, you will visit a Kandyan Dance performance and be treated to a
spectacular fire walking finale.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 06 : KANDY / COLOMBO

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Kandy to Colombo.
Transfer from Colombo to Gangaramaya Rajamaha Viharaya.
Renowned for its murals of the Kandyan Sittara art, “Gangarama Raja Maha
Viharaya” is attributed to King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe (1747 – 1781). The temple is
named “Gangarama” due to its location near the great Mahaweli river in Lewella.
A rock inscription in this temple describes the Building of the temple by the King:
“When Kirti Sri having being inaugurated king of Lanka noticed a stone statue of
ancient date, in a rock lying in the palmyra garden and caused a viharaya to be
made containing stone walls of 13 cubits in length 7 in breadth and 11 in height
surrounded by stone pillars and above a roof with rafters covered with tiles. Within
the walls a stone image of 9 cubits in height was made, beautified its robe with
vermillion painting, covered its different members with golden leaves painted
around with paintings of five hues and completed it after enshrining it with relics.
Transfer from Gangaramaya Raja Maha Viharaya to Bellanwila Temple.
In the temple-studded paradise island of Sri Lanka, Bellanwila Rajamaha Vihara
occupies a special place. This temple is considered so sacred that there is a long
cherished belief that a child who treads the ground under the shade of its scared
Bodhi-tree will never fail in life.

Situated in the outskirts of the city of Colombo, in the village of Bellanwila, just
three kilometers from the city limits, Bellanwila temple has a long and hallowed
history. The great sanctity attached to the temple is due to its sacred Bodhi-tree.
There is authorative literary evidence in ancient texts such as the Sinhala
Bodhivamsaya which records that this Bodhi-tree is one of the thirty two saplings
that sprang from the sacred Bodhi-tree at Anuradhapura planted in the 3rd century
B.C.E.
Transfer from Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya to Colombo.
Overnight stay at Colombo

DAY 07 : COLOMBO / AIRPORT

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for the departure.

BUDDHIST PILGRIMAGE TOUR

TOUR ITINERARY – 06 NIGHTS / 07 DAYS
DAY 01 : AIRPORT / YAPAHUWA / RES VEHERA / ANURADHAPURA
Meet & Assist on arrival, transfer from Airport to Yapahuwa.
Midway between Airport and Anuradhapura lies the magnificent citadel of
Yapahuwa. The site's outstanding feature is the marvelous stone stairway, which
climbs with Maya-like steepness up to the palace. Statues of elephants, makara
toranas, dwarfs, goddesses and a pair of goggle-eyed stone lions flank the stairs,
which are topped by a finely carved doorway and windows.
Transfer from Yapahuwa to Ras Vehera.
One of Sri Lanka's most curious archaeological puzzles concerns the history of the
two massive statues of the Buddha located within 11 kilometers of each other in
the North Central Province. They are so similar – in some ways at least – that they
have been called twin statues – or Gog and Magog as they were referred to by the
founder of Sri Lankan archaeology, H. C. P. Bell, in the late 19th century.
Transfer from Ras Vehera to Anuradhapura.
Check in at Hotel – Rest till evening.
Overnight stay at Anuradhapura.

DAY 02 : ANURADHAPURA / AUKANA / POLONNARUWA

Breakfast at Hotel.
Proceed on city tour of Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka from
3rd Century BC to 11th Century AD. At its height, Anuradhapura was one of the
greatest cities of its age, functioning as the island’s center of both temporal and
spiritual power, dotted with dozens of monasteries populated by as many as
10,000 monks – one of the greatest monastic cities the world has ever seen. The
most extensive of all the ancient cities, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO world heritage
site.
Transfer from Anuradhapura to Aukana
The Aukana Buddha statue beyond doubt is the most magnificent, undamaged
statue in Sri Lanka. It was built in the reign of King Dhatusena in the 5th century
and is 39 ft. (12 meters) high. The Name "Aukana" means "Sun-eating".
Overnight stay at Polonnaruwa.

DAY 03 : POLONNARUWA / DIMBULAGALA / POLONNARUWA

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Dimbulagala.
Dimbulagala Raja Maha Vihara is situated 16 kilometres south east of the ancient
city of Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka. The Dimbulagala range houses a number of caves
cut into the rock with Brahmi inscriptions over their drip ledges. This forest
hermitage of medieval times and holy abode since time immemorial, home to
some of the most valued fragments of early frescoes was called the Gunners Quoin
by the British.
Transfer from Dimbulagala to Polonnaruwa.
The ruined capital of Polonnaruwa is one of the undisputed highlights of the
Cultural Triangle and is a UNESCO world heritage site. The heyday of the city in the
twelfth century represented one of the high watermarks of early Sri Lankan
civilization. Polonnaruwa’s extensive and well-preserved remains, offer a
fascinating snapshot of medieval Sri Lanka, including some of the island’s finest
monuments and it is compact enough to be thoroughly explored in 3 hours. The
Gal Vihara, a collection of magnificent Buddha statues carved out of sheer rock is
not to be missed and a prime example of the craftsmanship of that era.
Overnight stay at Polonnaruwa.
DAY 04 : POLONNARUWA / MATALE / KANDY

Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Matale Aluvihare.
Visit the Aluvihare Temple. It was here, in the 2nd century B.C. that around 500
devoted monks committed to write the Buddha's scriptures which is known as
"Tripitaka".
Transfer from Matale Aluvihare to Matale Spice & Herbal Garden.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous
for. Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are
grown and processed. Witness a Cookery demonstration.
Transfer from Matale to Kandy Gadaladeliya Temple.
This site with an ancient monastery is found on the flat rock at Diggala in the
district of Kandy. According to a inscription there this temple was built by King
Buwanekabahu IV in the year 1344. The chief architect of this temple has been a
south indian called Ganesvarachari. Therefore this temple is essentially a South
Indian design.
Transfer from Gadaladeniya Temple to Ambekke Temple.

The Ambekke Temple is a wooden temple situated in the Ambakka village in Kandy.
It was built in the 14th century by King Wickremabahu III. The temple comprises
sixteen carved wooden pillars with engravings of swans, lions, bulls, elephants and
many other animals. There are also carvings of leaves, flowers, soldiers, dancing
women and mermaids. There are a total of 128 carvings on these pillars and the
carvings are presumed to be the work of the ancient artisan, Devendra Mulachari.
Transfer from Ambekke Temple to Lankatilaka Temple.
The Lankatilaka Temple dates back to the 14th century. It is built on the summit of
a rock called Panhalgala and provides a panoramic view of the surrounding hills,
paddy fields and the diverse vegetation around it. The viharaya is built of clay bricks
and has a unique architectural design which combines Buddhist and Hindu
elements. The Lankatilaka Temple is considered to be one of the best preserved
examples of traditional Singhalese temple architecture. Built on a rock, the temple
is reached by a long series of rock cut steps. An arched passage of the image house
leads through a mandapa (hall) into the inner sanctum which is richly decorated
with beautiful floral designs. The two side walls and the ceiling are decorated with
paintings. In the inner sanctum is a colossal seated image of the Buddha.
Transfer from Lankatilaka Temple to Kandy.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 05 : KANDY

Breakfast at Hotel.
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kandy which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The
historic city about 480m above sea level surrounded by mountains was known to
Sri Lankan as Kanda Uda Rata, which means the hill country. Kandy was home to Sri
Lanka's last independent Kingdom, which survived two centuries of colonial
incursion before finally falling to the British at the beginning of the nineteenth
century.
Proceed to visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic
is a Buddhist temple in the city of Kandy, Sri Lanka. It is located in the royal palace
complex which houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha. Since ancient times, the
relic has played an important role in local politics because it is believed that
whoever holds the relic holds the governance of the country. Kandy was the last
capital of the Sri Lankan kings and is a UNESCO world heritage site partly due to the
temple.
Transfer from Kandy Temple to Peradeniya.
Visit the Royal Botanical Gardens Set 6km southwest of Kandy in a loop in the
Mahaweli Ganga lie the expansive Peradeniya Botanical Gardens, the largest and
finest gardens in Sri Lanka, covering almost 150 acres and stuffed with a
bewildering variety of local and foreign tree and plant species.
Transfer from Peradeniya to Kandy Museum.

The Kandy Museum this building established during Sri Wickrama Rajasingha era
was then known as “Palle Vahala” This was used as the palace where the Queens of
the king lived. This building has been built according to the architectural features of
Kandy period. This pallevahala building was used to deposit the various items of
historical value made by Kandy Art Association established in 1832 and technicians
of Matale district. This was opened for the public as a museum 1942.
Transfer from Kandy Museum to Degaldoruwa Temple
The Degaldoruwa Temple was built in 1771 AD by King Rajadi Rajasinha and was
initiated during the reign of his elder brother King Kirti Sri Rajasinha [1747-1782
AD].This is considered as a Cave Temple with Kandyan era Paintings and
Architecture.
This temple is situated at Amunugama, a village near Kandy Town.The easiest way
It can be reached from Kandy is via the roadway over Lewella Bridge or by
proceeding along Kundasale road and turning left at Nattarampota.
Transfer from Degaldoruwa Temple to Kandy.
Early evening, you will visit a Kandyan Dance performance and be treated to a
spectacular fire walking finale.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 06 : KANDY / COLOMBO
Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Kandy to Colombo.
Transfer from Colombo to Gangaramaya Rajamaha Viharaya.
Renowned for its murals of the Kandyan Sittara art, "Gangarama Raja Maha
Viharaya" is attributed to King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe (1747 – 1781). The temple is
named "Gangarama" due to its location near the great Mahaweli river in Lewella.
A rock inscription in this temple describes the Building of the temple by the King:
“When Kirti Sri having being inaugurated king of Lanka noticed a stone statue of
ancient date, in a rock lying in the palmyra garden and caused a viharaya to be
made containing stone walls of 13 cubits in length 7 in breadth and 11 in height
surrounded by stone pillars and above a roof with rafters covered with tiles. Within
the walls a stone image of 9 cubits in height was made, beautified its robe with
vermillion painting, covered its different members with golden leaves painted
around with paintings of five hues and completed it after enshrining it with relics.
Transfer from Gangaramaya Raja Maha Viharaya to Bellanwila Temple.
In the temple-studded paradise island of Sri Lanka, Bellanwila Rajamaha Vihara
occupies a special place. This temple is considered so sacred that there is a long
cherished belief that a child who treads the ground under the shade of its scared
Bodhi-tree will never fail in life.

Situated in the outskirts of the city of Colombo, in the village of Bellanwila, just
three kilometers from the city limits, Bellanwila temple has a long and hallowed
history. The great sanctity attached to the temple is due to its sacred Bodhi-tree.
There is authorative literary evidence in ancient texts such as the Sinhala
Bodhivamsaya which records that this Bodhi-tree is one of the thirty two saplings
that sprang from the sacred Bodhi-tree at Anuradhapura planted in the 3rd century
B.C.E.
Transfer from Bellanwila Rajamaha Viharaya to Colombo.
Overnight stay at Colombo

DAY 08 : COLOMBO / AIRPORT
Breakfast at Hotel.
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for the departure.

Nature Trails

DAY 01 : AIRPORT / COLOMBO

Meet & Assist on arrival, Transfer from Airport to Colombo.
Enjoy a city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative
capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and
remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbor and its strategic position
along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000
years ago. However it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was
ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri
Lanka’s corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues. On this tour you
will visit many of the historical, religious and commercial sites of Colombo including
the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens,
the Galle face Green, Viharamahadevi Park and much more.
Overnight stay at Colombo

DAY 02 : COLOMOB / DENIYAYA
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Colombo to Deniyaya. (Check in to the hotel called The Rainforest
Eco Lodge which is situated near to the Singharaja Rain Forest.)
Night Walks
Weather permitting leave on a easy trail by about 6.00pm armed with flashlights
and miner lamps to study the nocturnal activity of the forest. Be amazed as to how
the forest changes and admire the character and design of the forest and its
nocturnal species. Reptiles include the endemic Green pit viper and the Hump
nosed vipers and a large variety of amphibians specially tree frogs and the endemic
Common birdwing butterfly. Return by 8pm for our chef’s special dinner.
Dinner and overnight stay at Deniyaya.

DAY 03 : Breakfast at hotel.
Arboretum Trail
This is a relaxed walk of about 2hours in duration that is a unique study of in-
depth flora within the forest. An easy trail signposted and marked in detail gives
a great deal of satisfaction and adventure as you find your way through the
forest. Suitable for all age groups.

Nature & Waterfall Trail

The rainforest landscape offers many opportunities for the visitors to explore and
experience and trekking through the secondary rainforest and trekking up small
hills to grasslands. There are flexible soft trekking tours of two to three hours
depending on your capabilities and is suitable for most ages and it is not so steep or
hilly. Exploring waterfalls can be quite challenging if you are not up to it. During this
trail there is plenty of opportunity to photographs and study the forest especially
native endemic medicinal plants and wild varieties of common spices. The unique
pitcher plant can also be seen along with wild orchids and flowers in season. As you
trek you will feel watched by the Purple face leaf monkey that is a unique feature
of the rainforest. This is a walking trail so distance and time all depends on the
groups capabilities from a min of 2 hours to max 6 hours.
Overnight stay at Deniyaya.
DAY 04 : Breakfast at hotel.
Bird & Butterfly Trail
An early morning 6.15am start and a 2 1/2km gentle walk down the incline brings
you to the Samangala Temple which is the start of observing the unique
phenomena of the Bird wave or Bird Flock. This is made up of usually of
different species that join each other and move together while foraging. A mixed-
species foraging flock typically has “nuclear” species that appear to be central to
its formation and movement. Species that trail them are termed “attendants”.
Attendants tend to join the foraging flock only when the flock enters their
territory. Invariable led by the fearless Greater Racket-tailed Drongo and the
noisy Orange-billed babbler. Of the 26 endemic species of Sri lanka the 19
rainforest species all occur here including the elusive Red-faced Malkoha, green-
billed Coucal and the Sri Lanka Blue Magpie. A typical mixed feeding flock moves
through the
or low foliage forest at about 0.3 kilometers per hour (0.19 miles per hour), with
different species foraging in their preferred niches (on the ground, on trunks, in
high, etc.). Return for our famous hearty breakfast.

Tea & Community Trail
Experience the essence of tea with our tea & community trail that could be done at
a leisurely pace as it is walking on flat ground and suitable for all ages. While
experiencing the tea pluckers at their daily routine there is an opportunity to see
firsthand how they live by visiting the Rainforest Community Village and if you are
in time teach a class in the school to primary students or burp a baby at the crèche.

Overnight stay at Deniyaya.

DAY 05 : DENIYAYA / GALLE / HIKKADUWA

Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Deniyaya to Galle.
The old part of the city within the Dutch Fort built in the 17th century has been
declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. A walk on the ramparts from Point
Utrecht bastion to Flag Rock bastion will give you an excellent view of the ancient
harbor which was known as Tar shish in the Bible. We will pass the District Court
and the original entrance to the Fort en route to the Dutch Reformed Church built
in the 17th century. The New Town to the north of the Fort was badly affected by
the tsunami in 2004 and is the home of the famous International cricket stadium
which has been re-built.
Transfer from Galle to Hikkaduwa.

Overnight stay at Hikkaduwa.

DAY 06 : Breakfast at hotel.

Full day at leisure in the hotel (The vehicle will be not at disposal)
Overnight stay at Hikkaduwa.

DAY 07 : Breakfast at hotel.

Full day at leisure in the hotel. (The vehicle will be not at disposal)
Overnight stay at Hikkaduwa.
DAY 08 : HIKKADUWA / AIRPORT
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Hikkaduwa to Airport for the departure.

Excursions & Tours
* Bird Check list

-red face malkoha
-yellow fronted barbet
-white faced starlin
-spot- winged thrush
-crimson backed woodpeckers
-sri lanka hanging parroot
-sri lanka layards paraket
-black- headed yellow bul bul
-sri lanka yellow-eared bul bul
-sri lanka blue magpie

*Flower Checklist

-argyreia-populifolia                  -girithilla
-osbeckia octaandra                    -heen bowitiya
-zngiber officinasle                   -wild ginger
-clerodendron infortunatun      -pinna
-kendricke walkereya                 -kendirikka

* Plant Checklist

– pagianatha dichotoma                  kaduru
– bemecarpus walkeri badulla
– mangifera zeylainica                  aetamba
– shorea gardnerie                      rathdun
– agrostistachys corialen               beru
– garacinia quaesita                    kana goraka
– garacinia hermonii                    madol
– elaeocarups subbillosus               gal veralu
– cinnamoum zylancium                 wal kurundu
– wendlandia bicustidata                vana idala

General Info for Trekking:
All treks and walks are weather dependent

What to Wear? T-Shirts, or cotton shirts long sleeves is better as it will prevent scratches and scrapes,
comfortable trousers or shorts and walking shoes. or Shorts or Sports Sandals.
What to Bring? Insect Repellent, Sun Block, A Hat, A Change of Clothes. Small towel.
If you are wearing glasses, please secure with straps and a Dry Bag. A raincoat to use if needed.
What we provide: Leach socks and leach repellent during the day time treks and additionally torches for
night time treks. Guides carry 2 raincoats if needed

Trekking Tour

DAY 01 : Group meets in foyer at Colombo.

Departure from hotel.
Transfer to Anuradhapura.
Overnight stay at Anuradhapura.

DAY 02 : Breakfast.

Departure from hotel.
Arrival at Wesser Giriya (or Vessagirirya) and tour of monastic cave
dwellings followed by walk through paddies fields to Thissa Wewa bund
and then on to Goldfish Park.
Departure from Goldfish Park for Sri Maha Bodi. Clients may use toilet
facilities located at end of car park.
Arrival at Sri Maha Bodi.
End of morning tour including Sri Maha Bodi, the Brazen Palace (with all
its granite pillars) and the Maha Stupa (Great Stupa). But meets group on
main road just beyond the Maha Stupa.

Arrival at the Lankarama Stupa. Begin walk which takes in the Elephant
Pond (Eth Pokuna), the Samadhi Budda stature, Mahapali Refectory,
Mahasena’s Palace (with splendid moonstone and large granite slabs).
Abhayagiri Dagoba, Samadhi Buddha statue and the Twin Ponds (Kuttam
Pokuna).
Arrival at the Twin Ponds and meet bus. Short transfer to the Jetvana
Dagoba.
Arrival in front of Jetvana Dagoba. Commence walk starting with the
Patimaghara image house, Bo trees shrine railing, drinking water well and
finishing at Museum. Good bird watching an ancient lavatories (for the
monks) can be found beyond the far corner of museum behind car park.

Overnight stay at Anuradhapura.

DAY 03 : Breakfast.

Departure for Mihintale.
Arrival at Mihintale. Drop off clients wishing to walk up 426 stairs. Rest of
group continues in bus up to half –way point. Liaise with rest of group
and continue up remaining 350 stairs. Upon arrival at main terrace
explain to group what the options are and give them 1 hour to explore on
their own. Advise clients to use the toilet facilities before meeting up at
10:45.
Liase at shoe deposit and top of stairs. Proceed back down stairs to bus.
Departure for the hotel at Kandalama.
Arrival at the hotel in Kandalama. Welcome drinks and briefing on hotel
and afternoon walks. Proceed to dining room for lunch and distribute
room keys to clients there. Meet with naturalists to organize walks.
Organize table outside for dinner.
Set off on afternoon walks, otherwise known as ‘jungle trekking’:
‘kandalama Rock’ or Puranagama (Ancient Village) walks.
Arrival back at hotel from walks.
Overnight stay at Kandalama.

DAY 04 : Breakfast.

Departure for Polonnaruwa.
Arrival at Polonnaruwa museum. Visit museum then proceed to Island
Park and its council chamber and royal baths.
Arrival back at bus and departure for main archeological site area.
Arrival at royal palace. Continue on foot from there to Shiva Devale n1,
then to the ‘Quadrangle’ (Dalade Maluwa) and visit Thuparama (Buddhist
temple done in Hindu style), Vatadage (circular relic house with covered

stupa), Atadage (Structure meant to house the tooth relic), Hatadage
(with 3 buddha statues), Gal Pota (book of stone and inscription by
boasting king), Satmahal Prasada (7 floor temple of SE Asian Influence).
Walk down stairs to board bus. Brief transfer to just beyond city walls and
ancient trade stalls. Cut across forested area to base of Rankot Vihara
(large brick stupa) and walk around to the right of it passing old hospital
on LHS. Further along turn right and climb stairs up to Buddha Seema
Pasada (old chapter house), then continue on to Lankatilaka gedige (with
17m high walls and large headless Buddha statue) and Kiri Vihara (‘Milky
Stupa’) before finally reaching car park and path leading to Gal Viharaya
and its 4 large Buddha statues carved into the granite rock.
Departure for Sigiriya Rock.
Arrival at Sigiriya Rock. Commence tour starting with quick museum visit
and loo stop, then continue on to water and fountain garden, boulder
garden, terrace garden, spiral staircase leading to celestial nymph
frescoes, mirror wall, lion’s paws platform and arrival at summit.
Overnight stay at Kandalama.

DAY 05 : Meet in reception for early morning bird watching walk.

Return to hotel from walk and breakfast.
Departure for Dambulla caves.
Arrival at Dambulla and Buddhist museum car park. Start walking.
Arrival back a bus and departure for spice garden.
Arrival at spice garden beginning of tour. Remind guide to keep it short
and skip the product presentation at end of walk around garden. If clients
would like to purchase something have them do it before lunch if crowds
permitting.
Departure for the Sri Muthumariamman Thevasthanam Hindu temple in
Matale (pronounced Maathale).
Arrival at the Temple of the Tooth Relic. If anyone would prefer to go
directly to the hotel they may do so. Others may prefer to explore Kandy,
walk around lake etc.

Meet in front of Red Cross building to attend dance performance.
Dance performance beings.
Dance performance ends.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 06 : Breakfast.

Departure from hotel for Peradeniya Botanical Gardens.
Arrival at gardens. Distribute maps and offer independent visit. Point out
meeting point exit for after tour.
Departure for Udawattakele Sanctuaryand forest walk. Clients will take
rickshaw from bottom of main road leading up to entrance.
Arrival at entrance and reach bus located on other side of forest reserve.
Depart for Senani Restaurant overlooking Bogambara Lake.
End of lunch. Clients are free to go back to hotel, explore Kandy, walk
around Bogambara Lake. Walk clients down towards town and point out
meeting point at stairs leading to lake shore.
Overnight stay at Kandy.

DAY 07 : Breakfast

Bags ready and outside rooms.
Departure for Glenloch Tea Plantation.
Arrival at Glenloch Tea Plantation.
Start tea plantation walk (with tea plantation worker(s) if not all
members of the group will be able to complete the walk).
Arrival back at tea factory and restaurant. Do quick tour of tea factory.

Arrival at Nuwara Eliya. Check clients in and distribute bags.

Meet in lounge room for walk down to Victoria Park and late afternoon
bird watching.
Arrival back at hotel.

Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya.

DAY 08 : Departure from the hotel for Horton Plains.

Arrival at main entrance to park.
Groups starts walking.
Arrival at World’s End.
Arrival back at main entrance.
Optional tour Haggale Botanical Gardens (2hrs including 20 min journey
and 20 min journey back) or Single Tree Mountain walk (1h 45 mins).
Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya.

DAY 09 : Breakfast.
Departure for Ella.
Departure in bus to stating point of walk near Hindu temple.
Commence figure 8 walk through tea plantation and up to Little Adam’s
Peak.
Departure for Tissamaharama. Stop a Rawana falls along the way for 15
minutes.
Arrival at Tissamaharama.
Overnight stay at Tissamaharama / Yala.

DAY 10 : Departure in jeeps for Yala National Park.

Arrival at park entrance.
Optional afternoon walks 1)Wedasiti Kandha, 2)Rice paddy and Yoda Lake
bund walk, 3)Kirinda beach walk.
Arrival back at Tissamaharama.
Overnight stay at Tissamaharama / Yala.

DAY 11 : Breakfast.
Departure for Galle.
Plt stop at Tangalle.
Departure for Galle.

Arrival at Galle. Commence walking tour along ramparts and through
town. Tell clients to meet at base of clock tower/flagpole at 18:00.
Return to the hotel.
Arrival back at hotel.
Overnight stay at Galle.

DAY 12 : Departure for Kanneliya Forest Reserve.
Arrival at Kanneliya Forest Reserve. Breakfast
Start walk.
Finish walk.
Departure for Galle.
Meet group and return to the hotel.
Overnight stay at Galle.

DAY 13 : Breakfast.

Departure for Colombo International Airport.
Arrival at airport.
Departure time for recommended flight.

Discover Sri Lanka

DAY 01 :
AIRPORT / NEGAMBO
Upon arrive, meet & greet by our representative at Bandaranaike International
Airport and proceed to Negombo.
Negombo’s beach is very wide in places and also the heartland of Christian Sri Lanka, as borne out by the enormous churches and florid wayside catholic shrines scattered about the town and its environs. The Dutch made the town an important commercial center, building a canal, on which spices, particularly cinnamon, which grew profusely in the surrounding areas-where transported from the interior to the coast prior to being shipped abroad.

DAY 02 :
NEGAMBO / PINNAWALA / SIGIRIYA
Transfer from Negombo to Sigiriya. for the Village Safari Tour.
Bullock Cart Ride:
Bullock Cart is the first vehicle in Sri Lanka. In the past once past famous mode of transport of local royalty.
Today this vehicle become coordinating between the past and present.
Boat Riding:
Reservoir is a stunning mixture of the village after cart ride visitor can get Canoe Boat Ride in the reservoir.
Village Tour:
Next visitor can get special experience of the pleasures of village life for visit house in the village.
Toddy Tapping:
Toddy Tapping is a special thing in the village culture. Visitor can get this experience in his village tour.
Tuk Tuk Tour:
At the end visitor have a tuk tuk tour back to the starting point. Total tour is around 8 km ride.

DAY 03 :
SIGIRIYA / HABARANA / SIGIRIYA
Transfer from Sigiriya to Ritigala
Reach Ritigala Mountain
Ritigala can be reached from the turn-off from Habarana- Anuradhapura Road at a distance of 12km from Habarana. Another 5 km along a graveled yet memorable road leads to the foot of the mountain.
Ritigala Mountain at a height of 766 m above the sea-level is the highest mountain in the north-central dry plains of Sri Lanka. The mountain mass about three miles long and about two miles wide at its widest point is covered with dense jungle inhabited by wild Elephants, leopards and bears. It is the watershed of the Malwatu Oya which feeds the Nachaduwa tank and Kalueba Ela which feeds Huruluwewa. The Ritigala Mountain has been declared a Strict Natural Reserve in order to maintain its pristine environment. Ritigala mountain’s cloud cover and mist that cloth it most of the year round has resulted in a flora much more commonly found at the central hills of wet zone than those in the dry plains: the upper part of the mountain is well known for its flora, some of which are rare; it has also a range of wild orchids.
Transfer from Ritigala to Habarana for Elephant Back Safari at the evening.
Elephant Back Safari brings in multifaceted joys. The majestic beast, the locations in close proximity to the cultural attractions and the terrain rich with bird life all add up to bring in memorable experiences to the tourists holidaying in Sri Lanka.
Elephant Back Safaris are one of the newest and most thrilling safari experiences in Sri Lanka. This Elephant Back Safari not only makes it possible to view wildlife from the back of an elephant, but perhaps more importantly, provide the unique opportunity to share a day in the life of the elephant.
Transfer from Habarana to Sigiriya.

DAY 04 :
SIGIRIYA / DAMBULLA / SIGIRIYA
Climb the 5th century Sigiriya Rock fortress which is a UNESCO world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495). The spectacular citadel of Sigiriya rises sheer and impregnable out of the plains of the dry zone. It is the country’s most memorable single attraction, a remarkable archeological site made unforgettable by its dramatic setting. The rock was the innermost stronghold of a 70 hectare fortified town. A moat, rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the ‘Heavenly Maidens’ of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway.
Transfer from Sigiriya to Dambulla
Dambulla rock temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka’s many cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. meters of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure carved out of granite rock and spanning 14 meters.
Transfer from Dambulla to Sigiriya.

DAY 05 :
SIGIRIYA / MATALE / KANDY
Transfer from Sigiriya to Kandy. Visit Matale Spice Garden en route. Visit a spice garden in Matale to see different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous for. Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are grown and processed. Witness a Cookery demonstration. Sri Lanka is famous for its spices
and spices gardens. These spice gardens offers tourists memorable visits to various spice plantations in
Sri Lanka. In order to promote and uplift spice growing and spice gardens of Sri Lanka a spice council
was established with all key industry private and public sector stakeholders. During early historical times Sri Lanka known as Taprobane, was world renowned for its Quality Spices. During ancient times the Greeks, Romans and the Arabic maintained their links with Sri Lanka through the spice trade. In the 16th century Ceylon, as it was then known, was discovered by Portuguese who soon began trading in cinnamon and other spices. The Dutch and British followed bringing with them their own history and influences, forming a strong
Western presence which created a history of food expressed with spices which can be tasted in the dishes today. Also the Spices are use in Ayurveda in Sri Lanka. Spice Gardens in the hill capital Kandy and at Matale and Mawanella give interesting insights into spice production in Sri Lanka.The importance of spices in the minor export crops of Sri Lanka consist of Fragrant clove, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, mace and pepper, for which Sri Lanka has been farmed since ancient times, thrive in the hills.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see many different types of spices Sri Lanka is famous for. Just 25 km from the hill capital of Kandy, the Matale spice gardens are among the best on the island. You will be introduced to different spices and shown how some of these spices are grown and processed. A processing and training unit has been set up in the area and farmers are grouped in a cooperative to ensure fair prices and you will also be able to purchase spices. Gardens are open to visitors, a delightful place to stroll in fragrant greenery and learn about nutmeg, pepper vines, clove trees and curry, cinnamon and the precious cardamom, a relative of ginger. It grows in the shade of high jungle trees and can only be harvested by hand.
Visitors may buy spices, traditional remedies and cosmetics, taste a herbal brew and in some venues, enjoy the full flavors of Sri Lankan spices over lunch or an Ayurveda massage based on natural products from the garden.
Transfer from Matale to Kandy.

DAY 06 :
KANDY CITY TOUR
Enjoy the sightseeing tour of Kandy which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The historic city about 480m above sea level surrounded by mountains was known to Sri Lankan as Kanda Uda Rata, which means the hill country. Kandy was home to Sri Lanka’s last independent Kingdom, which survived two centuries of colonial incursion before finally falling to the British at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Visit the Temple of the tooth, The Royal Botanical Gardens, the Peradeniya University campus and catch a panoramic view of the picturesque town from Upper Lake Drive.
Early evening, you will visit a Kandyan Dance performance and be treated to a spectacular fire walking finale Kandy is also famous for its shopping, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, batiks, silks etc. And you will have the opportunity of browsing to your heart’s content.

DAY 07 :
KANDY / RAMBODA FALLS / TEA PLANTATION / NUWARA ELIYA
Ramboda waterfalls are situated at Ramboda of Nuwara Eliya district of Sri Lanka. Ramboda is at between Nuwara Eliya and Gampola towns. The height is about 109m and the 729th highest in the world. There are about 27km to Ramboda from Gampola town. Ramboda waterfall is at downside of the main road and it cannot see from the main road. You should you down to the main road at Ramboda bridge of Nuwara Eliya Kandy main road and then you can visit the Ramboda waterfall. Ramboda waterfall is not a single waterfall and it has two stairs. Up side of the main road of Ramboda place, there is another waterfall. Most of tourists dismiss the waterfall and they visit up side waterfall and go away. But don’t forget to visit Ramboda main waterfall at downside of the Ramboda of Nuwara Eliya Sri Lanka Near Ramboda waterfall there is the longest road tunnel of Sri Lanka. It is made in 2006 -2007 years and also you can visit the Kothmale Valley and Kothmala Mahaweli Pagoda as well.
Tea Plantation
Rolling hills in Sri Lanka are carpeted with some of the best tea plantations in the world. Very popular all over the world, the Ceylon tea or the Black tea was brought to the Srilankan hills by the British, who found the hilly region tailor-made for the plantation of tea. The British found the hilly areas of Srilanka suitable for the plantation of coffee and rubber. By the middle of the 19th century, Ceylon tea or Black tea had become very popular all over the world. Most of the tea companies in Sri Lanka were owned by the foreigners till 1971. Land Reform Act was brought was reclaim the land in foreign hands. Now, both the state-owned and private companies are in the fray.
Visit a tea plantation and a tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here you could observe all about the process of manufacturing tea. You can also see how tea is graded. Taste a cup of pure Ceylon tea in the factory.
Transfer from Tea Plantation to Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwara Eliya meaning “the city of dawn” is the town at the highest elevation (about 2000m above sea level) in Sri Lanka and its tallest peak, Pidurutalagala (2555m) could be seen from here. The city established by the British in the nineteenth century, and known as “Little England” and is a popular holiday resort for Sri Lankans & tourists due to its cool climate and quaint colonial feel with its little bungalows surrounded by hedgerows. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of the tea country and you can visit a plantation and a factory en route here and witness how the famous “Ceylon Tea” is brewed.

DAY 08 :
NUWARA ELIYA / HORTON PLAINS
Horton Plains National Park (HPNP) was recommended for the tentative listing of World Heritage Sites (WHS) to United Nations Educational, Scientific & Cultural Organization (UNESCO) by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources of Sri Lanka on 20th March 2006. On 30th July 2010 UNESCO declared Sri Lanka’s Highlands comprising the Peak Wilderness Protected Area, the Horton Plains National Park and the Knuckles Conservation Forest, a World heritage site.
The early morning drive The high altitude plains are beautiful, silent, strange & excellent for trekking & bird watching. A light sweater & stout shoes for the morning; a hat & sunscreen for mid-day. The weather can change very quickly on the plains. One minute it can be sunny & clear, the next chilly & misty. Pastries & sandwiches. Canteens of water, a flask of tea or a flask of coffee. We will be leaving as early as 5.30 am from Nuwara Eliya. The drive from here on via beautiful Diyatalawa (of military cantonment since the days of the British) to Horton Plains is particularly beautiful. Mountains, mist, tall trees, green vegetation, flowers & fruits all hugging you all along. The crisp & cool air would be wrapping you around. The pain in the A of waking up, getting up & getting ready early in the morning is all gone now. You start to feel assured that all that trouble is nothing compared the ride, hike & the park. This is hill country of Sri Lanka. Just before we reach the park we drive passing a stunning dawn view of Adam’s Peak. The peak is prettiest during the pilgrimage season from December to May while the mountain is illuminated with lights). By 7 am we are at the entrance to the park.

DAY 09 :
NUWARA ELIYA / HAKGALA / YALA
Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Yala. On the way, you may visit Hakgala Botanical Gardens. Garden established in 1861 as an experimental cultivation of Cinchona, a commercial crop thriving at the time. Once after the Tea replace the Cinchona, it was turned into an experimental Tea. In 1884 it transformed to a garden since then many sub-tropical and some temperate plants were planted in the gardens There are over 10,000 species of flora planted here and during the spring season in Nuwara Eliya thousands of visitors come to see the blooms here. Number of annual visitors is around 500,000.The garden is famous for number of species of Orchids and Roses are planted there.

DAY 10 :
DAY SAFARI
Yala National park is Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife reserve. Yala covers an area of 1260 square kilometers. The park’s dry-zone landscape is strikingly beautiful and the park’s wildlife has its own distinctive charm, with huddles of colorful painted storks perched on the incongruously conjoined sight of elephants marching sedately through the bush while rabbits scamper through the undergrowth. Leopards, sloth bears and elephants are the “big 3” here although crocodiles, jackalls and the many variety of birds are also a huge draw to this park which is the largest national park in the country.
The Yala National Park is the most visited park in Sri Lanka. In 2002 around 156,867 tourists visited the park. Foreigners, especially Europeans, account for 30% of total visitors. Block I is the main area for visits. Block III (main gate in Galge area, on Buttala-Kataragama Road) and the adjoining Kumana Park or ‘Yala East’ (main gate at Okanda, on the east coast not far from Pottuvil) however are becoming popular in their own right too. See [1] Note that the Situlpahuwa pilgrimage site, geographically in Block III, has kind of an ‘enclave’ status and is accessible FOC through separate roads from Tissa and Kataragama. Most of the visitors stated that reasons for their visit are to see wild animals, and elephant is the most preferred animal. The visitors like to see bears, leopards, birds as well. In 2000 the income from visitors including lodge fees was approximately US$468,629. Due to security conditions revenue was lost. The Yala National Park has been susceptible to terrorist attacks. On 17 October 2007 a group of LTTE cadres attacked an army detachment in Thalgasmankada in the park. The attack killed six army soldiers and another was caught up in a landmine explosion. On 11 July 2008 four people died in an attack launched by the LTTE. The cadres opened fire at a bus carrying pilgrims to Kataragama. Since the end of the civil war, May 2009, no violence has occurred in Yala area also and it is fully safe for visitors; this was also the main factor in opening blocks III and V for tourists

DAY 11 :
YALA / HAMBANTOTA / HIKKADUWA
Proceed Hambantota
Around the years of 1801 and 1803, the British built a Martello tower on the tip of the rocky headland alongside the lighthouse overlooking the sea at Hambantota. The builder was a Captain Goper, who built the tower on the site of an earlier Dutch earthen fort. The tower was restored in 1999, and in the past, formed part of an office of the Hambantota Kachcheri where the Land Registry branch was housed. Today it houses a fisheries museum. From 2 August to 9 September 1803, an Ensign J. Prendergast of the regiment of Ceylon native infantry was in command of the British colony at Hambantota during a Kandian attack that he was able to repel with the assistance of the snow ship Minerva. Earlier, HMS Wilhelmina had touched there and left off eight men from the Royal Artillery to reinforce him. This detachment participated in Prendergast’s successful defense of the colony. If the tower at Hambantota was at all involved in repelling any attack this would be one of the only cases in which a British Martello tower had been involved in combat Economy & Infrastructure.
 Convention Centre
 Wind Farm
 Port
 Airport
 Transport
 Tele Cinema Village

Transfer from Hambantota to Hikkaduwa.

DAY 12 :
HIKKADUWA / GALLE CITY TOUR / HIKKADUWA
The old part of the city within the Dutch Fort built in the 17th century has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. A walk on the ramparts from Point Utrecht bastion to Flag Rock bastion will give you an excellent view of the ancient harbor which was known as Tar shish in the Bible. We will pass the District Court and the original entrance to the Fort en route to the Dutch Reformed Church built in the 17th century. The New Town to the north of the Fort was badly affected by the tsunami in 2004 and is the home of the famous International cricket stadium which has been re-built.

DAY 13 :
HIKKADUWA / KOSGODA / BALAPITIYA / COLOMBO
Transfer from Hikkaduwa to Colombo and on the way you may visit The Turtle Hatchery in Kosgoda and after that proceed Balapitiya for River Safari at the evening. Kosgoda is famous for its turtle hatchery- operated by the Wild Life Protection Society of Sri Lanka. It was established in 1981 to protect Sri Lanka’s turtles from extinction. The hatchery pays fishermen for eggs that they collect at night along the sandy beach. Visitors can see huge tanks filled with new born turtle hatchlings. After being fed, the baby turtles are taken to the sea and released when they are 2-4 days old, usually during the safer hours of darkness. Although October to April is the main laying season, some eggs can be found at Kosgoda throughout the year.
Proceed Balapitiya for Madu River Safari.
The Madu River Lagoon is popularly known as the Madu Ganga. The town of Balapitiya which lies about 80km from Colombo is the waters-meet for the Madu Ganga. It is located in southwest Sri Lanka. The ‘Amarapura Nikaya’ a Buddhist sect, held its first higher ordination ceremony balanced on a fleet of boats that were anchored, in 1803. The Madu Ganga wetland with its estuary and mangrove islets makes up a coastal wet-land- eco- system. It is home to about 303 species of plants and 248 species of vertebrate animals. It is considered one of the last expanses of immaculate mangrove forests in Sri Lanka. The island citizens of these islets produce peeled cinnamon and cinnamon oil and you are sure to have the opportunity to experience this indigenous
production.
Transfer from Balapitiya to Colombo.

DAY 14 :
COLOMBO CITY TOUR
Enjoy a city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbor and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka’s corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues. On this tour you will visit many of the historical, religious and commercial sites of Colombo including the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens, the Galle face Green, Viharamahadevi Park and much more.

DAY 15 :
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for the departure

Circle of Ceylon

DAY 01 :
AIRPORT / ANURADHAPURA
Upon arrive, meet & greet by our representative at Bandaranaike International Airport and proceed to Anuradhapura.

DAY 02 :
ANURADHAPURA SIGHTSEEING
Anuradhapura is the first ancient capital of Sri Lanka from 3rd Century BC to 11th Century AD. At its height, Anuradhapura was one of the greatest cities of its age, functioning as the island’s centre of both temporal and spiritual power, dotted with dozens of monasteries populated by as many as 10,000 monks – one of the greatest monastic cities the world has ever seen. The most extensive of all the ancient cities, Anuradhapura is a UNESCO world heritage site.

DAY 03 :
ANURADHAPURA / HABARANA / SIGIRIYA
Transfer from Anuradhapura to Habarana for Elephant Back Ride.
Elephant Back Safari brings in multifaceted joys. The majestic beast, the locations in close proximity to the cultural attractions and the terrain rich with bird life all add up to bring in memorable experiences to the tourists holidaying in Sri Lanka. Elephant Back Safaris are one of the newest and most thrilling safari experiences in Sri Lanka. This Elephant Back Safari not only makes it possible to view wildlife from the back of an elephant, but perhaps more importantly, provide the unique opportunity to share a day in the life of the elephant

DAY 04 :
SIGIRIYA / DAMBULLA / MATALE / KANDY
Climb the 5th century Sigiriya Rock fortress which is a UNESCO world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495). The spectacular citadel of Sigiriya rises sheer and impregnable out of the plains of the dry zone. It is the country’s most memorable single attraction, a remarkable archeological site made unforgettable by its dramatic setting. The rock was the innermost stronghold of a 70 hectare fortified town. A moat, rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the “Heavenly Maidens” of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway.
Transfer from Sigiriya to Dambulla.
Dambulla rock temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka’s many cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. meters of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150
images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure carved out of granite rock and spanning 14 meters.
Transfer from Dambulla to Kandy.
Proceed Spice Garden in Matale.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous for. Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are grown and processed. Witness a Cookery demonstration.
Sri Lanka is famous for its spices and spices gardens. These spice gardens offers tourists memorable visits to various spice plantations in Sri Lanka. In order to promote and uplift spice growing and spice gardens of Sri Lanka a spice council was established with all key industry private and public sector stakeholders. During early historical times Sri Lanka known as Taprobane, was world renowned for its Quality Spices. During ancient times the Greeks, Romans and the Arabic maintained their links with Sri Lanka through the spice trade. In the 16th century Ceylon, as it was then known, was discovered by Portuguese who soon began trading in cinnamon and other spices. The Dutch and British followed bringing with them their own history and influences, forming a strong Western presence which created a history of food expressed with spices which can be tasted in the dishes today. Also the Spices are use in Ayurveda in Sri Lanka. Spice Gardens in the hill capital Kandy and at Matale and Mawanella give interesting insights into spice production in Sri Lanka.The importance of spices in the minor export crops of Sri Lanka consist of Fragrant clove, cinnamon, cardamom, nutmeg, mace and pepper, for which Sri Lanka has been farmed since ancient times, thrive in the hills.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see many different types of spices Sri Lanka is famous for. Just 25 km from the hill capital of Kandy, the Matale spice gardens are among the best on the island. You will be introduced to different spices and shown how some of these spices are grown and processed. A processing and training unit
has been set up in the area and farmers are grouped in a cooperative to ensure fair prices and you will also be able to purchase spices. Gardens are open to visitors, a delightful place to stroll in fragrant greenery and learn about nutmeg, pepper vines, clove trees and curry, cinnamon and the precious cardamom, a relative of ginger. It grows in the shade of high jungle trees and can only be harvested by hand.
Visitors may buy spices, traditional remedies and cosmetics, taste a herbal brew and in some venues, enjoy the full flavors of Sri Lankan spices over lunch or an Ayurveda massage based on natural products from the garden.
Transfer to Kandy.
Early evening, you will visit a Kandyan Dance performance and be treated to a spectacular fire walking finale
Kandy is also famous for its shopping, gems and jewellery, handicrafts, batiks, silks etc. And you will have the opportunity of browsing to your heart’s content.
Kandyan dance takes its name from Kandy, the last royal capital of Sri Lanka, which is situated about 120 kilometers from the modern capital at Colombo. This genre is today considered the classical dance of Sri Lanka. In Sanskrit terminology it is considered pure dance (nrtta); it features a highly developed system of "tala" (rhythm), provided by cymbals called "thalampataa". There are five distinct types;
the ves, naiyandi, uddekki, pantheru, and vannams. The drum used in Kandyan dancing is known as the Geta Bera,
the drum in Ruhunu dancing as the "Yak Bera", and drum in Sabaragamu dancing as the "Davula" (the word Bera or Bereya in Sinhale means "Drum") The Geta Bera is beaten with the hands as is also Yak Bera, while the Davula is played with a stick on one side and with one hand on the other side; the Geta Bera has a body which tapers on both sides while the Yak Bera and the Davula both have cylindrical bodies

DAY 05 :
KANDY CITY TOUR / BANDARAWELA
Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Kandy which is a UNESCO world heritage site. The historic city about 480m above sea level surrounded by mountains was known to Sri Lankan as Kanda Uda Rata, which means the hill country. Kandy was home to Sri Lanka's last independent Kingdom, which survived two centuries of colonial incursion before finally falling to the British at the beginning of the nineteenth century. Visit the Temple of the tooth, The Royal Botanical Gardens, the Peradeniya University campus and catch a panoramic view of the picturesque town from Upper Lake Drive.
Transfer from Kandy to Bandarawela
Bandarawela is a big town, situated in Badulla District, Uva Province, Sri Lanka, which is 28 km away from Badulla. Due to higher altitude, Bandarawela has a mild weather condition throughout the year hence; it is popular among the citizens to spend the vacations with their family members. Bandarawela is 200 km away from Colombo and about 125 km away from Kandy, Colombo and Kandy being two capital cities in Sri Lanka. Both roads and railway transportation facilities are available to reach the area within a few hours. Bandarawela town, tinted with a colonial past resting among lush forestation has found its niche among its visitors as a base for eco-tourism.

DAY 06 :
BANDARAWELA / HAPUTALE / LIPTON SEAT / BANDARAWELA
After the breakfast, for the visit of Adisham Bungalow.
The house was built in 1931 by an English aristocrat and planter Sir Thomas Villiers, former Chairman of George Steuart Co, a trading and estate agency based in Colombo. Sir Thomas was a grandson of Lord John Russell and descendant of the Dukes of Bedford. Named after Adisham, it was designed by R. Booth and F. Webster in Tudor and Jacobean style, on 10 acres (40,000 m 2 ) of land. Adisham Hall played host too many prominent personalities of the colony until the retirement of Sir Thomas, after which it was sold to Sedawatte Mills in 1949. In 1961 it was purchased by the Roman Catholic Church and was subsequently converted to a
monastery. The house is well preserved along with its period fittings and furniture, and is open to visitors.
Proceed Lipton Seat at the evening.
The Lipton’s Seat is located at Dambetenna in the Haputale Mountain region. This place was a favorite look-outpoint for Sir Thomas Lipton. The point has a fabulous view over Uva, Southern, Sabaragamuwa, Central and
Eastern provinces.

DAY 07 :
BANDARAWELA / TANGALLE
Transfer from Bandarawela to Tangalle.
In the deep south of Sri Lanka you'll find Tangalle, located between the towns of Matara and Hambantota.
Known for its tranquility, deserted beaches and the unique ECO system, Tangalle attracts the more individual travelers to Sri Lanka.
One side of Tangalle bears a small hillock, with a bird's eye view of the surrounding bay up to the far horizon of the palm fringed beach and the shimmering sea. Tangalle boasts of clear soft sandy beach and surfing.
The couple of protective bays has made Tangalle a popular port from the ancient times to date and, today, is an important fishing town, as well as a perfect place for those who desire a quiet, relaxed holiday with sun, sand, surf, snorkel and swim

DAY 08 :
TANGALLE / MIRISSA / TANGALLE
Full day at leisure in the hotel. (You may visit Mirissa at early morning for Whale / Dolphin watching programme which is starting around 6.00 early morning.) Whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa is one of the most exciting water activities you can do in Sri Lanka during your holiday. Mirissa is the best place to start your whale and dolphin watching tour in Sri Lanka.
In warm Indian Ocean you can see Blue whales, Bryde´s whales, Sperm whales, Fin whales, sometimes Killer whales, and Common dolphins, Bottlenose dolphins, Spinner dolphins, Risso's dolphins and Striped dolphins. Sometimes you can see turtles and various fish species, for example Bluefin tuna and flying fish.

DAY 09 :
TANGALLE / GALLE
Transfer from Tangalle to Galle.
The old part of the city within the Dutch Fort built in the 17th century has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. A walk on the ramparts from Point Utrecht bastion to Flag Rock bastion will give you an excellent view of the ancient harbor which was known as Tar shish in the Bible. We will pass the District Court and the original entrance to the Fort en route to the Dutch Reformed Church built in the 17th century. The New Town to the north of the Fort was badly affected by the tsunami in 2004 and is the home of the famous International cricket stadium which has been re-built.

DAY 10 :
GALLE / AIRPORT
Transfer from Galle to Airport for the departure.

Bird Watching Tour

DAY 01 :

Meet & Assist on arrival, Transfer from Airport to Negombo.
Check in to the hotel and transfer to Muthurajawela sanctuary.
Muthurajawela bears staggering species of flora and fauna. Numerically 192 flora and 209 fauna, excluding 102 species of birds have been discovered. Some indigenous floras and faunas have also been found in Muthurajawela marsh. Visitors may see water birds such as herons, egrets in abundance in the lagoon and the marsh. It is also a residence for 40 different species of fish, of which 15 falls under the category of indigenous fauna. The nocturnal animal, slender Loris, which is believed to be endangered, can be seen once in a blue moon.
Muthurajawela marsh has been declared as s sanctuary by the government in 1996 due to its vast bio diversity. Visitors may be assisted by the Muthurajawela marsh Centre. The Centre educates people about the importance of Muthurajawela. The staff at Muthurajawela marsh center is available every day except Monday; from 7.00 a.m. to 6.00 p.m. Visitors may be given well trained guide. Also a boat ride will be given for visitors through the marsh and lagoon. Visitors will not only be able to
travel on water, if they are interested, they can walk on the land and view the natural greenery. Early mornings or evenings are the best times to view, Muthurajawela. Late mornings and afternoons should be avoided in order to get rid of harsh sun rays.
More than 60 species of birds can be observed here.
Eg: Common Sandpiper, Little Ringed Plover, Purple Coot, Painted Stork, Stork –
Build kingfisher and others.
Negombo’s beach is very wide in places and also the heartland of Christian Sri Lanka, as borne out by the enormous churches and florid wayside catholic shrines scattered about the town and its environs. The Dutch made the town an important commercial centre, building a canal, on which spices, particularly cinnamon, which grew profusely in the surrounding areas-where transported from the interior to the coast prior to being shipped abroad.
Overnight stay at Negambo

DAY 02 :

Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer from Negombo to Deniyaya after the early breakfast. Visit Bodhinagala Rain Forest en route.
Situated surrounding an ancient Buddhist monastery, Bodhinagala Forest Reserve is a tropical rainforest which was only just discovered as one of the best bird watching locations in Sri Lanka. It is a moderately small strip of secondary lowland rainforests; however it is surprisingly rich with flora and fauna. Surrounded by rubber and tree plantations, Bodhinagala is composed of slopes, forest paths and sparkling streams and is a popular area for mountain biking!
The peaceful wet-zone area is home to 150 species of bird including endemic species such as the Green-billed Council, Ceylon Spur fowl, Yellow-fronted Barbet, Ceylon Small Barbet, Black-capped Bulbul, Spot-winged Thrush and sub-continental endemics such as the Ceylon Frogmouth and the Malabar Trogon. Butterflies of many species can be found here including the Tawny Rajah. The endemic mammal species include the Purple-faced Leaf and Toque Monkeys and the Grizzled Indian
Squirrel.
Transfer to Deniya at the afternoon and check in to the hotel which is located near to the Singharaja Rain Forest.
Evening trekking at Singharaja Rain Forest and rest of evening at leisure in the hotel.
Dinner and Overnight stay at Deniyaya.

DAY 03 :

Starting the Bird Watching Session at the early morning.
Singharaja Forest Reserve is the most famous rainforest of the country. This tropical rain forest is a living heritage. Bio diversity of the forest is very high and a large proportion of the flora in this forest is endemic to the country and some endemic to the Singharaja Forest itself. This is a very good place to see many endemic birds such as Ceylon Lorikeet, Layard’s parakeet, Jungle and Spur Fowl,
Ceylon Wood Pigeon, Grey Hombill, Spotted wing Thrush, Rufus and Brown- capped Babbler, Ashy-headed Laughing Thrush, Ceylon Blue Magpie, White Headed Starling, Ceylon Hill Mynha, Legge’s Flowerpecker. The clear cut roads in to the jungle provide easy access to the forest. This important forest is a Man and Biosphere Forest reserve and it is considered as a World Heritage Site.
Overnight stay at Deniyaya.

DAY 04 :

Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer from Deniyaya to Udawalawe.
Uda Walawe has developed into one of Sri Lanka’s most popular national parks mainly thanks to its large population of elephants. It"s the best place in the island to see pachyderms in the wild. The park is beautifully situated just south of the hill country. There are around five hundred elephants here, alongside hundreds of buffaloes and you might also see macaque and languor monkeys, spotted deer, crocodiles and a variety of birds of prey.
Transfer from Udawalawe to Yala
Overnight stay at Yala.

DAY 05 :

Yala National park is Sri Lanka’s most visited wildlife reserve. Yala covers an area of 1260 square kilometers. The park’s dry-zone landscape is strikingly beautiful and the park’s wildlife has its own distinctive charm, with huddles of colorful painted storks perched on the incongruously conjoined sight of elephants marching sedately through the bush while rabbits scamper through the undergrowth. Leopards, sloth bears and elephants are the "big 3" here although crocodiles, jackalls and the many variety of birds are also a huge draw to this park which is the largest national park in the country.
Overnight stay at Yala

DAY 06 :

Breakfast at the hotel.
Transfer from Yala to Horton Plains. One hour drive from Nuwara Eliya.
Perched on the very edge of the hill country midway between Nuwara Eliya and Haputale,Horton Plains Natural Park covers a wild stretch of bleak, high altitude moorland bounded at its southern edge of the hill country, including the famous “World End”, where the escarpment falls sheer for the best part of a kilometer to the lowlands below.
You will feel the cool, wet climate which has fostered the growth of a distinctive range of flora, including various rhododendrons, bamboos, tree ferns and many endemic species of plants, making the Plains an area of great biological value. The Plains’ wildlife attraction are relatively modest. Leopards still visit the park, but one has to be incredibly luckily to see one. The parks most visible residents are its herds of deer and bear-faced monkeys. The plains are also one of the best places in the island for bird watching and an excellent places to see Montana endemics such as the dull-blue flycatcher; bush warbler, whistling thrush, yellow-eared bulbul, as well as orange minarets.
Transfer from Horton Plains to Nuwara Eliya.
Overnight stay at Nuwara Eliya.

DAY 07 :

Breakfast at the hotel and spend the day at leisure until evening.
Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Airport for the departure at the late evening.

Night Life - Colombo

DAY 01 :
Meet & Assist on arrival, Transfer from Airport to Colombo.
Overnight stay at the hotel.

DAY 02 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Enjoy a city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbour and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka”s corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues. On this tour you will visit many of the historical, religious and commercial sites of Colombo including the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens, the Galle face Green,
Viharamahadevi Park and much more.
Overnight stay at The Hotel.

DAY 03 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for the departure.

Wildlife Explorer

DAY 01 :
Meet greet and transfer from Airport to Pinnawala.
The Pinnewala Elephant Orphanage is one of Sri Lanka’s most popular tourist attractions. The orphanage’s population has now mushroomed to around 65, making it the worlds largest collection of captive elephants. The elephants here range in age from newborns to elderly matriarchs, and include orphaned and abandoned elephants, as well as those injured in the wild.
Transfer from Pinnawala to Habarana.
Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 02 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Habarana to Sigiriya.
Climb the 5th century Sigiriya Rock fortress which is a UNESCO world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa(477-495). The spectacular citadel of Sigiriya rises sheer and impregnable out of the plains of the dry zone. It is the country”s most memorable single attraction, a remarkable archeological site made unforgettable by its dramatic setting. The rock was the innermost stronghold of a 70 hectare fortifield town. A moat, rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the ‘Heavenly Maidens’ of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway.
Transfer from Sigiriya to Minneriya National Park.
Enjoy a Jeep Safari in the Minneriya National park. Its centerpiece is the large Minneriya Tank, and the park also boasts an unusually wide range of habitat types, from dry tropical forest to wetlands, grasslands and terrain previously used for slash- and-burn agriculture. For most visitors, the principal attraction here is elephants. Minneriya forms part of the elephant corridor which joins up with Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa national parks, and up to 200 of the beasts can be found here at certain times of year during their migrations between the various parks. Other mammals found in the park include sambur, spotted deer, sloth bears and leopards, and there”s also a good chance of seeing macaque and purple-faced languor monkeys. In addition, an enormous number of birds have been spotted at Minneriya, including endemic species such as the Sri Lankan hanging parrot and the crimson- fronted
barbet.
Transfer from Minneriya National Park to Habarana.
Overnight stay at Hotel.

DAY 03 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Habarana to Matale.
Visit a spice garden in Matale to see different spices for which Sri Lanka is famous for.Here, clients could see different spices and how some of these spices are grown and processed. Witness a Cookery demonstration.
Transfer from Matale to Nuwara Eliya.
Nuwara Eliya meaning “the city of dawn” is the town at the highest elevation (about 2000m above sea level) in Sri Lanka and its tallest peak, Piduruthalagala (2555m) could be seen from here. The city, established by the British in the nineteenth century, and known as “Little England” and is a popular holiday resort for Sri Lankans & tourists due to its cool climate and quaint colonial feel with its littel bungalows surrounded by hedgerows. Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of the tea country and you can visit a plantation and a factory en route here and witness how the famous “Ceylon Tea” is brewed.
About 1.5km away is Seetha Amman Temple, said to be built at the spot where Ravna held Sita captive, as related in the Ramayana. The small temple has a collection of statues, including a couple of Kali images.
Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 04 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Horton Plains.
One hour drive from Nuwara Eliya.
Perched on the very edge of the hill country midway between Nuwara Eliya and Haputale,Horton Plains Natural Park covers a wild stretch of bleak, high altitude moorland bounded at its southern edge of the hill country, including the famous ‘World End”, where the escarpment falls sheer for the best part of a kilometer to the lowlands below. You will feel the cool, wet climate which has fostered the growth of a distinctive range of flora, including various rhododendrous, bamboos, tree ferns and many endemic species of plants, making the Plains an area of great biological value. The Plains’ wildlife attraction are relatively modest. Leopards still visit the park, but one has to be incredibly luckily to see one. The parks most visible residents are its herds of deer and bear-faced monkeys. The plains are also one of the best places in the island for bird watching and an excellent places to see Montana endemics such as the dull-blue flycatcher; bush warbler, whistling thrush, yellow-eared bulbul, as well as orange minarets.
Transfer from Horton Plains to Nuwara Eliya.
Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 05 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Yala.
Yala National park is Sri Lanka”s most visited wildlife reserve. Yala covers an area of 1260 square kilometres. The park”s dry-zone landscape is strikingly beautiful and the park”s wildlife has its own distinctive charm, with huddles of colorful painted storks perched on the incongruously conjoined sight of elephants marching sedately through the bush while rabbits scamper through the undergrowth. Leopards, sloth bears and elephants are the “big 3” here although crocodiles, jackalls and the many variety of birds are also a huge draw to this park which is the largest national park in the country.
Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 06 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Yala to Balapitiya.
The village of Ambalangoda is the starting point of interesting boat safaris along the Madu Ganga, a good place to spot water monitors and a wide array of birdlife, including myriad colorful kingfishers.
Transfer from Balapitiya to Kosgoda.
Visit turtle hatchery.
Transfer from Kosgoda to Bentota.
Overnight stay at hotel.

DAY 07 :
Breakfast at hotel.
Transfer from Bentota to Colombo.
Enjoy a city tour of Colombo which is the largest city and former administrative capital of Sri Lanka and is a busy and vibrant city with a mixture of modern life and remnants of a bygone colonial era. Due to its large harbor and its strategic position along the East-West sea trade routes, Colombo was known to ancient traders 2,000 years ago. However it was only made the Capital of the island when Sri Lanka was ceded to the British Empire in 1815. The main city is home to a majority of the Sri Lanka”s corporate offices, restaurants and entertainment venues. On this tour you will visit many of the historical, religious and commercial sites of colombo including the historic and bustling Fort and Pettah, the elite residential Cinnamon Gardens, the Galle face Green, Viharamahadevi Park and much more.
Transfer from Colombo to Airport for the departure.

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