19 DAY LANKA GRAND TOUR-CLASSIC

Ayubowan and welcome to the paradise island of Sri Lanka! Upon arrival at the Katunayaka airport, you will be warmly greeted by one of our friendly chauffeur guides. You will then be transferred to the hotel in Colombo to refresh and relax. Colombo city offers a great choice of eateries, boutique bars and quality accommodation for you to enjoy. If time permits head to the Galle Face Hotel for a relaxing meal or a drink (Extra cost) overlooking the Indian ocean. It is a perfect place to enjoy the sunset as you soak in the atmosphere. Have a relaxing evening and get ready for an exciting day tomorrow to explore the city of Colombo.

Accommodation: Cinnamon Red (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 1 hour

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

After a scrumptious breakfast, spend the morning at leisure. In the late afternoon, you will join a walking tour of Colombo conducted by Mark Forbes (or one of his team members). This is a small group walking tour with other participants which is a fun way to experience the city of Colombo on foot. The tour takes between 3 - 4 hours with plenty of breaks. As you walk along, explore the amazing architecture that left behind by the Dutch and English. Experience the local food and beverages and listen to the many interesting stories whilst walking amongst the friendly and welcoming locals. It is a great way to learn about Colombo, its history and enjoy people go about their daily lives. At the end of the tour, you may decide to try a few more local eateries or have a drink or two in one of the boutique bars around the Old Dutch Hospital area (Extra cost). It is a popular spot for the locals and the travellers.

Accommodation: Cinnamon Red (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 30 min

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 4 hours

Wake up at dawn and head to the Maradana railway station to catch a train to Jaffna, the far north of Sri Lanka. Travelling to Jaffna is only for the adventurous, who would like to discover something new and different. The train is scheduled to depart at 5.30am however it is common to expect some delays. We have booked the express train for you and the first-class tickets for a comfortable ride. We suggest you take essentials items including a few snacks. The train takes approximately 7 hours to reach Jaffna. As the train travels through many towns, you will get to witness the diverse landscapes, paddy fields, coconut trees and lifestyle of locals giving you plenty of opportunities to explore some of the untouched parts of Sri Lanka. Train will arrive in Jaffna past midday where our guide will be there to collect you and transfer you to the hotel. Majority of the population in Jaffna is of Tamil ethnicity and practice Hinduism. You will come across many Hindu Temples and different cultural experiences compared to rest of Sri Lanka. Once ravaged by the internal conflict in the country, it is now a peaceful and a beautiful place to visit and explore. Jaffna is famous for its vegetarian cuisine. Try some of the delicious Jaffna cuisine and prepare yourself tomorrow to discover this town and its attractions.

Accommodation: Fox Resort (Boutique)

Total Transfer Time: 8 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

Enjoy a delicious breakfast and fuel up with energy. Jaffna has a hot climate hence we suggest to keep yourself hydrated. Your guide will collect you as planned and take you on a "Tour of Jaffna" which includes a visit to the Nallur Kovil, a local Market, Jaffna Fort and thereafter the Nagadeepa Island which is 1.5 hour drive and a 15 minute public boat ride. At Nagadeepa, visit the Purana Viharaya (means old temple) which is considered as a place that Lord Buddha visited to sort a dispute between two princes of the local Naga tribe. You will also see the Nagapooshani Amman Kovil which is dedicated to the principal goddess of Hindus, “Amman”. At the completion of the tour head back to your hotel and spend the evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Fox Resort (Boutique)

Total Transfer Time: 4 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3.5 hours

This morning we will leave Jaffna and take a 4 hour drive to Anuradhapura by road. Anuradhapura was the first kingdom of Sri Lanka and is a UNESCO world heritage site. Anuradhapura holds a strong significance to the Buddhists of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and spend the rest of day at leisure.

Accommodation: Alakamanda (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 4 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

After a relaxed breakfast, we will start the tour of Anuradhapura. During the tour, you will visit the magnificent 13 meter high statue of Lord Buddha carved out of solid granite, the most renowned relic of the Bodhi Tree (grown from a branch transported from India) under which Buddha was believed to have attained enlightenment and the famous samadhi buddha statue with meditation posture. You will also visit some of the grand stupas which include the second century BC, 330 feet tall Ruwanweliseya, Jetavana, Abhayagiri and the Mirisavetiya. Anuradhapura is not only a significant site for the Buddhists of Sri Lanka, the ancient architecture and remains are also most appealing for the history enthusiasts! We will next proceed to Dambulla cave temple located 1.5 hours from Anuradhapura. It is listed as a world Heritage Site and considered to hold the most breathtaking masterpieces of Buddhist Art in Sri Lanka. The temple is encrusted into a magnificently large rock. It sits more than 160m above the surrounding land and spans for more than 1.5 km around the base. Upon completion, head to your hotel in Sigiriya for the next 2 nights.

Accommodation: Kassapa Lions Rock (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 2 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 6 hours

This morning we will drive to Polonnaruwa, Sri Lanka’s second ancient capital between 11th and 13th Century. Built alongside an artificial lake, Polonnaruwa has well preserved ruins of palaces, bath pools, architecture and statues of Lord Buddha. Sophisticated irrigation structures and civilisations are evident from the remains of the site. One of the many highlights of the site are the 4 large rock cut Buddha’s statutes depicting the four significant poses of Buddha.

Accommodation: Kassapa Lions Rock (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 3 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2 hours

Today we will start with an early morning climb to the Sigiriya Rock Fortress (UNESCO World Heritage listed site), built by King Kashyapa (477-495 AD). Also called the “Fortress in the sky”, it was built to protect the king from its rivals. The climb up to the top of the fortress not only offers breathtaking views but there is so much to discover. Highlights include the mirror wall, Lion gate, water gardens and the amazing artistic frescoes. On completion, return back to your hotel and spend the rest of day at leisure.

Accommodation: Kassapa Lions Rock (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 30 min

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2 hours

After breakfast we will visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage before heading to Kandy. Some highlights of the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage include witnessing herds of elephants making their way down to the river for their daily bath. You will also have fantastic photo opportunities as you get up close to these gentle giants. Next proceed to Kandy, the gateway to Sri Lanka’s beautiful Hill Country. Kandy is the last kingdom of Sri Lanka and a UNESCO World Heritage listed site. You will also experience the bustling city of Kandy filled with many bazzars and local eateries. Late in the afternoon, we will visit “Temple of The Tooth” (home to the sacred tooth relic of Lord Buddha). It is also home to the palm-leaf transcripts and its history dates back to 1687. The temple is a symbol of pride, protection and religious significance for the many locals Buddhists. As the evening sets, watch a fascinating cultural show that exhibits the art of traditional low country and up country dancing.

Accommodation: Hotel Suisse (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 4 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 4 hours

A relaxing day is ahead as you drive through the picturesque hill country of Sri Lanka. You will notice the temperature becomes much cooler and the air is crisp. You will also witness the endless luscious green tea plantations and the beautiful cascading waterfalls. Nuwara Eliya located 2000m above sea level is also called the “Little England” due to chill climate and the many colonial bungalows built by the British. En-route we will visit a tea plantation and a tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Here you will learn about the process of manufacturing tea. You can also experience how tea is graded and taste a cup of pure Ceylon tea in the factory.

Accommodation: Jetwing St Andrews (4 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 2.5 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1.5 hours

Have a leisurely morning and head to the Nanu Oya train station by 12pm to embark on one of the most scenic train journeys through the hill country of Sri Lanka. The train takes approximately 2.5 hours to reach Ella. The train ride has become a key attraction amongst travellers for the breathtaking views and the experience. You may expect some delays but the wait is well worth it! Your guide will stay with you and help you board the train. Once settled, he will leave the station and head to Ella with your main luggage in the vehicle. We suggest you pack a few essential items and carry with you during the train ride. As the train glides through, marvel at the luscious Tea plantations, beautiful cascading waterfalls, daily lives of the locals and the cooler crisp climate. Train will arrive late afternoon in Ella where your guide will collect and take you to the accommodation for the next 2 nights. Ella has many little eateries and bars and a great place to enjoy the relaxed and chilled vibe. In recent years, Ella has become a paradise for backpackers. It is a great place to enjoy a couple of lazy days with relaxed walks and beautiful scenery, amongst nature.

Accommodation: Ella Flower Garden (Boutique)

Total Transfer Time: 3.5 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

This morning we will go on an easy 45-minute hike to Little Adams Peak. It is called Little Adams Peak as it showcases a similar scenery and feeling to the Adams Peak, at a smaller scale (Please note Adams Peak is a much longer and a challenging climb). Along the walk you will be surrounded by lush green landscapes and hillsides including tea plantations. At the end of the walk as you reach the summit, you will be rewarded with spectacular views of Ella Rock, Ella Gap and the Rawana Falls. Upon completion head back to your hotel and enjoy a delicious breakfast. Later in the afternoon, you will have the opportunity for the prefect photo shoot as you visit the Nine Arches bridge. It is on the Demodara loop and spans 91 meters at a height of 24m. The bridge has nine spectacular arches hence the name “The Nine Arch” bridge. The views are amazing and you may plan to visit when a train is due to pass the bridge for the best experience and postcard perfect photograph!

Accommodation: Ella Flower Garden (Boutique)

Total Transfer Time: 30 min

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 2.5 hours

After breakfast we will leave Ella and take an easy drive up to Tissa. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting wildlife jeep Safari at the Yala National Park. Yala National Park is about 1,260 sq. Km in size and is the largest national park in Sri Lanka. It has a picturesque scenic ocean frontage and its vegetation ranges from open parkland to dense jungle. The highlight of Yala is the large herd of elephants. Yala West Park is the best location to observe and photograph the famous and renowned leopards. There are estimated to be about 35 leopards in the park. It is also home to a large variety of water birds, sloth bears, spotted deer, barking deer, mouse deer, toque monkey, mongoose and crocodiles. You also have the opportunity to do another safari in the next day morning to get a different experience (At an extra cost).

Accommodation: Chaarya Resort and Spa (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 3 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 3 hours

Today, we will depart Tissa and head to Galle along the beautiful south coast of Sri Lanka. Upon arrival, visit the famous Galle Fort, a World Heritage Site by UNESCO overlooking the spectacular Indian Ocean. The Fort which was initially built by the Portuguese in 1619 has been expanded and further developed by the Dutch and the British. After visiting the Galle Fort, proceed to the hotel for a relaxing evening. Pamper yourself with a massage (Extra cost) OR simply enjoy the atmosphere by taking a stroll among the many streets inside the Fort.

Accommodation: Fort Bliss (Guest House)

Total Transfer Time: 3 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 1 hour

An exciting day is ahead as you will participate and experience an authentic Sri Lankan cooking class conducted by Karuna. During the class you will engage in the preparation of 5-6 authentic Sri Lankan dishes. Karuna will take you to the Galle Market to purchase the ingredients that would be required for the cooking class. Learn about common spices and techniques as you create your tantalising feast. At the end of the class sit back and enjoy the mouth-watering dishes just prepared. You will have the rest of the evening to further explore the town of Galle OR spend at leisure!

Accommodation: Fort Bliss (Guest House)

Total Transfer Time: 30 min

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: 4.5 hours

After a nice breakfast take a short drive along the coast and arrive in the famous beach town Hikkaduwa for your next 3 nights. Relax and unwind as you soak in the sun and listen to the sounds of the waves crashing. As the evening arrives, watch the amazing sunset while you sip a tropical cocktail and let the world go by. We think it is a perfect way to end your evening!

Accommodation: Coral Sands - Upgraded Deluxe Room (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: 1 hour

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

You have another relaxing day to spend by the beach OR you may decide to explore the nearby attractions and activities (Extra cost may apply).

Accommodation: Coral Sands - Upgraded Deluxe Room (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: N/A

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

You have another relaxing day to spend by the beach OR you may decide to explore the nearby attractions and activities (Extra cost may apply).

Accommodation: Coral Sands - Upgraded Deluxe Room (3 Star)

Total Transfer Time: N/A

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A

This morning, we will leave Hikkaduwa for the airport with a warm good bye. We hope you have enjoyed your time in this beautiful island paradise and take home memories of a lifetime.

Total Transfer Time: 2.5 hours

Total Time Spent on Attractions/Activities: N/A