“Ayubowan! Welcome to Sri Lanka”
On arrival after the immigration process and claiming your luggage your designated chauffeur guide will take you through to the exit and will escort you to the vehicle. You will then be transferred to Negombo. (Approx. 30 mins)
Overnight is at the hotel.
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Dambulla. (Approx. 3 hrs)
Visit Dambulla Cave Temple. In the city of Dambulla lies a hub that has been treasured by many kings since the 1st century B.C. Today, an icon in the face of Sri Lanka, Dambulla Rock Temple houses some of the most unique drawings in magnificently constructed 5 cave temples flanking the golden temple of Dambulla. Observe how exquisitely cave paintings are done along walls that shelter 150 statues of Lord Buddha. As you enter the retreat, look straight up to the gigantic Buddha statue glittering in gold over a land, which today houses an important junction in the country's economic and cultural uplifting.
Upon completion transfer to your overnight stay hotel.
Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel
Note: Please note that to reach Dambulla Caves, there is a short, but fairly steep incline with steps. Anybody in reasonably good condition will be able to visit this site without issue.
After breakfast at the hotel, visit Sigiriya Rock (Approx. 30 mins)
Sigiriya Rock - After an ancient prince killed his father to claim the throne, he was forced to flee to his pleasure palace and convert it into a fortress to guard against his opposition. The spectacular citadel of Sigiriya built on a giant rock rises sheer and impregnable out of the plains below. This remarkable 5th century archaeological site is made unforgettable by its dramatic setting. A moat, rampart, and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock and the frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya.
Visit Minneriya National Park - Famous for its large wild herds of elephants congregate on the edge of rivers and reservoirs to bathe and socialize, it's one of the best parks in Sri Lanka to see wild elephants. The Park covers 8,890 hectares and consists of a mixed forest of evergreen shrubs, a favorite habitat for animals, which include leopards, deer and wild elephants. Keep an eye out for monkeys as well, including the purple-faced langur and macaques.
Later, enjoy Sundowner cocktail. Indulge in a truly enchanting experience with our Sundowner cocktail, designed to be the perfect finale for your safari adventure at Minneriya National Park. Imagine yourself immersed in a serene setting, surrounded by the breath-taking beauty of nature. Our dedicated team will set up a comfy arrangement, complete with comfortable seating in the form of folding wooden chairs, ensuring utmost relaxation and comfort. As you settle into your seat, prepare to tantalize your taste buds with a refreshing Gin & Tonic, carefully crafted to perfection. Accompanied by freshly cut pineapples and roasted peanuts offering a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel
Note: Please note that to reach the top of Sigiriya Rock, there are nearly 1,200 stone steps up and then down. Anybody in reasonably good condition will be able to venture to the top of Sigiriya Rock and it's certainly worth the effort.
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy hands-on pottery demonstration followed by authentic Sri Lankan Village Lunch. (Approx. 3 hrs)
Pottery Demonstration - Upon arriving at the designated pickup point in Habarana, you will be transported by tuk-tuk or safari jeep to an inland area of Habarana. From there, a boat will take you across the water to a charming village house. Immerse yourself in the traditional art of pottery as you engage with a community of skilled potters, renowned for their craft through generations. Enjoy a hands-on experience, shaping clay and witnessing the creation of intricate pottery by expert artisans. This community-based excursion not only offers an enriching cultural experience but also supports local livelihoods. Conclude your visit with an authentic Sri Lankan lunch served at the village house.
Visit a Spice Garden – Culinary Experience and explore the lush spice gardens, learning about the cultivation and uses of Sri Lanka's renowned spices. Engage your senses with hands-on spice experiences, followed by a culinary adventure where you can learn to cook traditional Sri Lankan dishes. The sumptuous lunch, prepared with freshly harvested spices, offers a feast of authentic flavors.
Continue to drive to Kandy.
Check-in at your hotel & relax.
Overnight is at the hotel
After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for Kandy Food Walk excursion.
Your culinary trail to explore the hill country’s rich cuisine takes you around Kandy, the last kingdom of Sri Lanka’s regal history. Walk the streets of Kandy and catch a glimpse of its colonial elegance blended within the natural beauty. The city is dotted with impeccably restored colonial buildings and historic landmarks. First, visit a local eatery to enjoy freshly prepared vegan dishes, which are staples of the Sinhalese community in Kandy. Next, stop by a bustling restaurant with busy waiters carrying plates of hot dosa and vadei, the clatter of tea making and action packed counters to relish nibbles of traditional dishes made by Tamil households in Kandy.
Sample a range of Tamil cuisine with both vegan and vegetarian options. Back on the road, look for street food galore to get a taste of the island’s delectable flavours. Crispy, salty, spicy and sugary, Sri Lankan Street food comes in all shapes and sizes.
Later, drop in at a local food stall that excels in keeping things healthy and fresh while not compromising on flavour. A vegan’s dream comes true, you can treat yourself to a range of soya-based food items including snacks, milk and even ice-cream. Bring your food trail to an end by either dropping in at a modern café to tuck into a wholesome salad or visiting a colonial hotel to gulp down a pint of beer
HIGHLIGHTS
- Great for adventurous travellers who want to discover
- Kandy’s authentic healthy dishes.
- Explore a variety of dishes, snacks and drinks
- influenced by different cultures in Kandy.
Get to know about Kandy’s fascinating history through its culinary heritage
- Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Return to the hotel and take time to rest and relax.
Next, visit Temple of the Tooth Relic - promises a spiritually enriching experience during the sacred evening pooja. Begin with an exploration of the temple grounds, immersing yourself in its rich history. As the evening unfolds, witness the preparation for the pooja, culminating in a mesmerizing ceremony with traditional music, chants, and the veneration of the Tooth Relic. The experience concludes with a moment of reflection, leaving you with profound memories of this unique and spiritually fulfilling cultural encounter.
Overnight is at the hotel
After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Galle. (Approx. 4 hrs 30 mins)
Explore Galle Fort with a local. It is favored by many for being a concise representation of Sri Lanka’s cultural heritage. The focal point of the walk is the Galle Fort, a UNESCO-recognized world heritage site, and it is conducted by a 5th generation resident of this historic city located along the island’s Southwestern coast. The Portuguese, Dutch, and British occupied the Galle Fort at various points during Sri Lanka’s colonial history, and they have each left a unique imprint on its fabric. As you navigate through the fort’s charming alleyways at a leisurely pace, a fascinating blend of local design traditions and European colonial influence become evident in the architectural style of its many interesting structures. The Galle Fort Walk is peppered with interesting facts, numbers, stories, and myths, all interwoven by the unique perspective and narrative of its host, who knows this terrain as well as the back of his hand.
Overnight is at the hotel
After breakfast at the hotel/ packed breakfast proceed for Whale Watching Excursion at Mirissa. (Approx. 1 hr)
Whale-watching cruise in Mirissa - This half-day private boat expedition departs from the harbor in Mirissa daily from November to April. Ideal for families, small groups, and friends. Sail Lanka offers a perfect balance of whale watching and watersports in a 7-hour adventure that is certain to please even the most discerning sailor.
Whale Watching
6.30 am departure towards the whales. Along the way our chef serves a freshly prepared breakfast including fresh fruit, when whales are sighted guests are invited to the bow and upper decks for the best viewing of these incredible creatures.
Snake and Taprobane islands
After enjoying the whales, we head towards Weligama Bay, where the yacht anchors near the Snake and the Taprobane Isalands – a lovely setting to enjoy swimming and lunch.
Inclusions
- Welcome drink
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Tea / Coffee
- Whales / Dolphin watching
- Swimming
- Stand-up paddle boarding
Transfer back to the hotel and spend the day at leisure.
Overnight is at the hotel
Today in-time transfer to to Colombo airport for your flight to Male. (Approx. 2 hrs 15 minutes)
GF-145 17:25 | 18:25 hrs (indicative flight details)
On arrival at Male transfer to your hotel by speedboat.
Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel.
Day is at leisure. (vehicle/driver not included for the day)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel.
Day is at leisure. (vehicle/driver not included for the day)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel.
Day is at leisure. (vehicle/driver not included for the day)
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & Overnight is at the hotel.
In time, transfer to Male to catch your flight back home.
Bon Voyage!
