DAY 1 | ARRIVAL/ WELCOME – PROCEED TO SIGIRIYA | AN ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE
AYUBOWAN! (Sinhala/ Translated: May you have long life!). Talk about sustainable concepts J
This is the greeting you will hear from our airport staff as they welcome you with flower garlands at the Colombo Airport, arrival lounge. He will then introduce you to your guide and escort you to your vehicle.
We will leisurely proceed to Dambulla, situated in the cultural triangle of Sri Lanka, which portrays the best of local village lifestyle, combined with nature, history and wild life. You will witness a change of landscape as you drive into the nature.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 4 HRS
Once you reach Sigiriya, check-in to your resort.
By evening we travel to a quaint village in the Kandalama area and get up close and personal with a majestic Sri Lankan elephant, engaging in an elephant Rescue & welfare project.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 10 MTS
NOTES: In Sri Lanka most domestic elephants are exploited for tourism purposes such as elephant riding. Our concept is to avoid highly touristic activities and as a responsible entity we do not support any forms of animal cruelty and disrespectful encounters. This unique activity is exclusive for Authenticities and its partners. The concept in here is unique where we get an opportunity to bathe an elephant in the man-made tank instead, which the elephants enjoy.
*Recommend wearing lighter clothing (shorts, slippers etc) and leave your valuables behind as this experience involves water
AN ELEPHANT EXPERIENCE: Sri Lankan culture and elephants are synonymous. It is certainly one of the many reasons visitors around the globe plan a trip to Sri Lanka, to encounter elephants in the wild (national parks) or admire them during the “Perahera” festivals where they parade majestically in a procession along with performers, dancers and drummers. The concept at “Kap-Ela” is based on respecting tamed elephants for those who require a close encounter with these amazing and majestic animals.
We travel away from the main roads of Dambulla and proceed along the picturesque Kandalama Tank. We arrive at a remote village and walk through the narrow roads to the waiting catamaran boats, which take us along the Kandalama tank (safety jackets provided). The catamaran ride is a brief experience but gives you the essence of how typical villages use them for fishing, transportation and for picking up water lilies.
We arrive at a point where we are greeted by a tamed elephant enjoying a bath in the tank. The mahout invites us to join him in washing the elephant using coconut husks, a practice passed on from many generations of mahouts. You feel the elephant whilst bathing him/her. The rough skin of this gentle giant, feeling of its enormous head and ears, the probing trunk curiously in search of potential favours a mahout might present such as a fruit. Elephants certainly do enjoy this form of pampering as they do get a free massage as well.
After the bath in the tank, the elephant is taken to the shore where we provide you with fresh fruits, which you treat him/her with. They love the tropical fruits, which we provide based on the seasons. Most commonly we provide bananas, pineapple, watermelons or king coconuts. We provide you with a king coconut which you can enjoy under a shade during this time.
Finally, we bid adieu to the elephant and get into a “tractor” which is used by villagers. Tractors are used for both transportation and agricultural purpose and are an essential and practical mode of transport in the villages as it can carry up to 10 passengers. We leave behind the beauty of the location, but take along the memories of encountering an elephant in a more respectful manner.
DAY 2 | SIGIRIYA ROCK FORTRESS | VILLAGE LUNCH | AFTERNOON AT LEISURE
After a nice breakfast at your resort, proceed to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress to explore this UNESCO world Heritage site, which many refer to as the 8th Wonder of the world!
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 30 MTS
NOTES: Wear comfortable clothing, proper shoes, take with you a bottle of water, a small towel as this could be challenging to many to counter the steps and the heat and humidity during most days.
SIGIRIYA: Also known as “Lion Rock”, the fortress was built on top of a huge boulder in the 5th century. A palace in the sky was the vision the great King “Kassapa” had in mind when he took over the rains killing his own father. He was not supposed to be the chosen one! Once a Buddhist monastery, no place in Sri Lanka has generated as many theories and legends as the 180m monolith, set amidst stunning scenery. During the climb, you can talk to your guide about these many theories and decipher between myth and fact.
The fortress of Sigiriya starts with its well-fortified moat, which surrounds the entire complex of Sigiriya. The first part of the visit is a leisurely walk through the beautifully designed pleasure gardens with its pools. This leads to the Boulder gardens where the pathway is cleverly designed to protect invaders from reaching the summit. Getting to the terrace through the arch is an experience of its own where many visitors take a break before they climb the 1202 steps, which leads to the summit through the amazing “frescoes”, the mirror wall and the lion’s paw.
Thereafter, you can proceed to a village close to lunchtime, where you will have the opportunity to cook with a local family and enjoy a typical local rice and curry lunch in a beautiful setting, surrounded by lush vegetation.
The food will be cooked with less spices to suite your taste-buds
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 10 MTS
Enjoy the afternoon at leisure.
DAY 3 | POLONNARUWA | MINNERIYA / KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK
After breakfast at the resort, proceed to Polonnaruwa – The second ancient Kingdom of Sri Lanka to understand the architecture and its history that dates many a year.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 1 HR, 30 MTS
We visit the Museum of Polonnaruwa on arrival.
NOTES: We recommend that you first visit the Museum to understand the great planning and structure of this amazing Kingdom before you explore the archeological site. The best way to explore Polonnaruwa would be on Bicycles, which we provide at the entrance to the archeological site.
POLONNARUWA: Polonnaruwa is the second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 to reunite the country once more under a local leader. Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best planned archaeological relic sites in the country, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom’s first rulers. Polonnaruwa is home to the first Shiva Hindu Temple and the first signs of South Indian religious and political influence becomes visible during this era.
Polonnaruwa is divided into 4 areas. The visit starts with the Kings Palace and Baths. We then visit 3 different tooth relic temples and then proceed to the stupas. The visit ends on the far western side of the complex where you will see one of the most astonishing Buda rock carvings in Sri Lanka. It is highly recommended that one walk between the locations as most of the highlights don’t accessibility by bicycles.
Polonnaruwa, even today, is known as the "Rice Bowl" of Sri Lanka and during the 12th century, it matured in the latest irrigation systems and exported rice to the neighboring countries, including China.
After your experience in Polonnaruwa, proceed to Minneriya / Kaudulla National Park for a jeep safari.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 40 MTS
MINNERIYA / KAUDULLA NATIONAL PARK: The Wild Elephant population in the area rotate between 3 parks which are situated in the Northern, Western and Southern parts of the area in search of water and food based on the weather patterns. Namely they are Kaudulla, Hurulu Eco Park and Minneriya National Park respectively. During this period they are likely to roam in the Minneriya and Kaudulla National Parks. Our regional representatives will educate us on the animal movements based on which we select the best park that could give you the most sightings on the day.
It’s great to observe these magnificent animals in their natural habitat, which can give you an experience that will last a lifetime. The park is also home to wild boar, jackals, reptiles such as crocodiles and plenty of birdlife.
Return to your hotel for the evening.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 40 MTS
DAY 4 | DAMBULLA CAVE TEMPLE | KANDY CITY WALK
Let’s check-out from your resort after breakfast and proceed to the Rock Cave Temple in Dambulla.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 20 MTS
DAMBULLA CAVE TEMPLE: The Dambulla Cave Temple is the largest and best-preserved rock cave temple complex in Sri Lanka, towering 160 m over the surrounding plains with more than 80 documented caves in the surrounding area. The site is of particular interest for anyone that loves historic art, as five of the caves contain ancient statues and paintings related to and depicting Lord Buddha and his life. Legend has it that the sacred water pot inside the temple never runs dry nor overflows even though it is consistently refilled by a small natural spring on the rock itself.
The climb from the base is not strenuous – and can be done at a leisurely pace. It takes approximately 30 minutes. Your guide will buy your entrance fee and climb with you. There are approximately 200 steps. The best time to climb is in the early morning or the late afternoon to avoid the heat. You will need to cover your knees and shoulders – and access the inner chambers barefoot or with socks.
Note: You are required to wear clothing covering shoulders and knees and remove footwear and caps or hats prior to entering the inner caves once you reach the summit.
After this experience proceed to Kandy – The hill capital of the country.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 2HRS, 30 MTS
KANDY WALKING TOUR (EXPLORE): In the late afternoon, enjoy a nice sunset walk in this busy but charming city of Kandy including a visit to the marketplace, combined with a tuk tuk ride which is a very Authentic experience and certainly one of the quickest ways to get about in busy urban cities.
The imposing Colonial buildings (Victorian and Edwardian) remind you of the Colonial Influence in Kandy. Be curious as to the busy lifestyle of the Kandyans and how the ladies wear their sarees and hurry across the narrow roads.
The narrow street across the Queens hotel in particular is amazing leading to the Kandy Bazaar.
Recommended: Try out the “Lion Beer” at the Royal Pub in the heart of the town.
Check-in to your resort in Kandy and enjoy the evening.
DAY 5 | TEMPLE OF THE TOOTH RELIC | VISIT THE HOME OF A KANDYAN DANCE TEACHER
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel.
We shall then visit the Temple of The Sacred Tooth Relic in Kandy.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 20 MTS
The famous Temple of the sacred Tooth Relic, also known as the 'Dalada Maligawa' in Kandy is one of the most venerated places of worship for Buddhists. Built in the 16th century, this temple houses the sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha brought to Sri Lanka during the reign of King Meghavarna (301-328). The relic is encased in seven caskets, one kept inside the other, the outmost of which has a shape of a stupa, adorned with a large number of gold ornaments. Several buildings have been added to the temple complex by successive rulers, the latest being the Golden Canopy over the inner shrine where the Tooth Relic is placed. Originally the Temple was within the King's palace complex as it was the symbol of Royal Authority.
Note: You are required to wear clothing covering shoulders and knees and remove footwear and caps or hats prior to entering the temple premises.
In the afternoon, we will proceed to Lankathilake – a village situated in the outskirts of Kandy, to visit the home of a Kandyan Dance Teacher, where he conducts dancing lessons for children from the village.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 40 MTS
NOTES: The dancing school only performs for our clients
KANDYAN DANCING SCHOOL, LANKATHILAKA - We visit a local Dancing scool outside the city of Kandy. The Kandyan art reflects the unique signifies our heritage and culture. The dancing school is conducted by a renowned Kandyan dancer recognised by the main Kandy Temple. The reacher conducts dancing and drumming lessons to emerging young students who aspire to be temple dancers and drummers. This is an important ambition to these students and the practice has been going on for several generations.
The rather charming dancing school is located in the outskirts of the Kandy cit. It is common that the villagers nearby come over to witness the lessons admiring the skills and techniques passed on for many generations. The school conducts both Kandyan daning and drumming lessons and clients too could take part in drumming lessings and learn some of the techniques.
Return to Kandy and enjoy your evening at leisure.
DAY 6 | AUTHENTIC TRAIN JOURNEY | TEA FACTORY VISIT
After breakfast, we will check-out and proceed to the Kandy Railway station to proceed higher up the misty mountains to the cooler climes of Nuwara Eliya. (Altitude – Over 6000 feet from Sea Level)
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 30 MTS
What better way to travel through the hill country than enjoying an Authentic Train ride!
TRAIN TRAVEL: Travelling by train is probably the most attractive way to get about in the lush green Sri Lankan hill country. The ride gives you the opportunity to witness magical landscapes and views. This is also perhaps one of the best ways to mingle with locals from the area who use rail transport on a day-to-day basis.
Note: Train journey is approximately 4 hours. Your destination, which is ‘Nanu Oya’ railway station, is not the final stop, and the train proceeds beyond this point.
Your chauffeur guide will meanwhile drive to Nanu Oya with your luggage and await your arrival.
NUWARA ELIYA: The premier hill country destination, which is also known as ‘Little England’ as it was once the city where wealthy Englishmen lived. This has given Nuwara Eliya a beautiful golf course, a horse race course, and Victorian style architecture, which is visible throughout most of Nuwara Eliya.
In the afternoon, proceed to a tea factory and learn the history of Ceylon Tea and understand the techniques of tea plucking to the process in the factories prior to tea being sent to Colombo for auctioning, packaging and branding.
Tea together with Cinnamon perhaps made Sri Lanka popular and it is certainly worthwhile to visit the luscious tea plantations if you are in the Hill country.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 30 MTS
DAY 7 | TREK AT THE HIGHEST PLAINS OF THE ISLAND
Early this morning, we will enjoy a nice trek through Sri Lanka’s highest plains, which offer some breathtaking sceneries. Best time to commence the Horton Plains trek is approximately at 0700 hrs. (departure time from hotel approx. 0530h)
Picnic breakfast can be arranged from the hotel.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 1 HR, 30 MTS
HORTON PLAINS: Horton Plains is Sri Lanka's highest plateau 7200 ft above sea level in the central mountain country. This ‘Fen” is a very scenic region with an astounding variety of scenery from mountains to grasslands, from marshes to trout streams. Sri Lanka's best flavored high grown teas are grown in the surrounding areas. Spectacular view from 'Worlds End' where the plateau plunges a thousand feet in a straight sheer drop. Cool and bracing climate, excellent for trout fishing and very good hiking country. Its home to Distinctive flora (many English field flowers grow on the plains), colourful butterflies and many rare highland birds. Horton Plains is also home to the Majestic Sambar Deer, The Black Eagle, Purple Faced Leaf Monkey and The Sri Lankan Leopard.
We return to Nuwara Eliya and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
You could perhaps walk along the banks of the picturesque Gregory’s lake and take a stroll in the charming town area.
DAY 8 | NUWARA ELIYA / YALA | VISIT THE TISSAMAHARAMA STUPA
After breakfast, we will leisurely check-out late morning and proceed to Yala.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 4 HRS
Reaching Tissamaharama, we will visit the Tissamaharama Stupa.
TISSAMAHARAMA STUPA: Tissamaharama Stupa is the largest stupa in the Southern region of the country with a height of 156 feet and 550 feet in circumference. According to chronicles, King Kawan Tissa had sought blessings and instructions from Arahat Gothama Thera, who was a spiritual adviser to the king, when constructing Tissamaharam stupa The stupa was built to commemorate lord Buddha's visit to the area, at the same place where Buddha spent time in meditation with 500 Arahat Buddhist monks. The stupa’s structure is a 'Bubble Shape' and was built by using bricks on a square platform made of granite stones.
We then continue to Yala, and upon arrival, check-in to your hotel situated close to the Yala National park and enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
DAY 9 | SAFARI AT THE YALA NATIONAL PARK
In the early morning (Approx. 0530hrs), let’s proceed to the world famous Yala National Park for a Jeep safari (private jeep). TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 20 MTS
YALA: Undoubtedly the best park in the country for Leopard Sightings. Yala also boasts the highest density of leopards per square kilometer which makes Yala one of the best parks in the world to sight leopards. According to BBC Director Paul Williams, the world’s largest leopard (namely Ivan) was found in Yala a few years ago.
However due to this very reason, Yala can be very crowded during most parts of the year with local and foreign tourists.
Among other animals in the park are The Majestic Sri Lankan Elephant, Sambar & Spotted deer, Sri Lankan Sloth Bear, crocodiles, Wild boar, Jackals, the wild buffalo, many species of endemic & migratory birds, and reptiles.
Note: Recommend wearing light colored clothes during safaris.
After an eventful safari, return to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings and the hotel facilities.
DAY 10 | PROCEED TO GALLE | GALLE FORT WALKING TOUR
Breakfast at the hotel.
We will then check-out proceed to Galle – a coastal town with rich heritage.
TRAVEL TIME: APPROX. 2 HRS, 45 MTS
Upon arrival, check-in to your accommodation situated inside the Historic Fort.
In the afternoon we enjoy a walking tour at this heritage site.
GALLE FORT: The famous Galle Fort was first constructed by the Portuguese and was later fortified by the Dutch who occupied these areas of the then Sri Lanka (known as Ceilan). Due to the major developments carried on by the Dutch the Fort is identified as the Dutch Fort although the construction was initially carried out by the Portuguese.
This historic site has now been restored to its former glory by the Sri Lankan government converting this Fort to one of the liveliest places to be in, in the country. Amidst the historical monuments and buildings you will find many cafés, pubs and shop,s which attract many locals and foreign tourists. Don’t miss-out to take a walk on the ramparts that border the turquoise ocean.
Perhaps enjoy your dinner at one of the nicer addresses, and explore the fortress on your own;
Pedlar’s Inn, Taphouse, Church Street Social, Minute by Tuk Tuk and Crepology are some of the good dining addresses.
DAY 11 | GALLE / DEPARTURE
Enjoy your breakfast and morning at the hotel.
Taking back the memories from this magical island, it’s time to bid farewell to the Pearl of the Indian Ocean!
We will arrange a departure transfer based on your departure flight time.
