Sri Lanka Highlights Tour with Walkers Tours

DAY 01 – 30th October

Arrival at the Bandaranayke International Airport. Clients will be met by your Chauffeur Guide and Airport Staff.

Negombo – Sometimes known as “Little Rome” due to the profusion of Christian Churches, this archetypical fishing village has now grown to a major beach resort on the west coast, north of Colombo and 15 minutes from the International Airport. The wide sandy beaches and safe sea bathing are major attractions, as is the fish market where busy trading of a variety of fish, prawns and crabs takes place each morning (except Sunday) when the fishing craft return to shore. Traditional large sailed outrigger canoes are a picturous sight in this village which was once a trading port for the Portuguese and Dutch. Other attractions are the old Dutch fort gate built in 1672 now a part of the prison and the Dutch Canal which was then a supply route for the Dutch administration.

Accommodation: Jetwing Lagoon, Negambo

DAY 02 – 31st October

Proceed to Sigiriya en route visit Galewela for an authentic village experience and lunch

Check-in to the hotel.

Evening at leisure to enjoy hotel facilities.

Accommodation: Jetwing Vil Uyana, Sigiriya

DAY 03 – 1st November

After Breakfast climb Sigirya or Pidurangala Rock.

Sigiriya – This UNESCO World Heritage Site, a spectacular Rock Fortress, is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. The most impressive facets of the unique complex are the Water Gardens, the Frescoes of beautiful maidens, the Mirror Wall with ancient graffiti, the Lion platform and the Summit of 1.6 hectares, which was completely covered by buildings during the period of Sigiriya’s glory. Built by King Kashyapa (477-495 A.D), the “Lion Rock” is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200m from the scrub jungle. The rock was the innermost stronghold of the 70 hectare fortified town and the base is ringed by a moat, rampart, and extensive gardens. The world-renowned frescoes (originally 500, of which only 19 remain today) which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway are painted in earth pigments on plaster. The old stairway to the top led through the mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of the massive proportions of the head. Remains of the handsome royal citadel are on the summit and several caves for meditation, audience platforms and baths complete the unique site.

Proceed to Kandy

Kandy – Sri Lanka’s hill capital, stronghold of the Sinhala Kings, is our most beautiful town. The focal point of the town is, without doubt, the golden roofed Dalada Maligawa. The highlight of the year is the Esala Perahera, when a replica of the relic casket is taken in procession accompanied by exotically costumed dancers, drummers and elephants during ten glittering nights in July/August. Visit Kalapuraya in the beautiful Dumbara valley. There are many shrines and temples, where you will see rare paintings, frescoes, wood and stone carvings.

Evening visit to the Royal Botanical Gardens and visit the temple of the Tooth Relic. If time permits experience a cultural dance show.

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Accommodation: Theva Residency, Kandy

DAY 04 – 2nd November

After Breakfast travel to Nuwara Eliya.

Nuwara Eliya is the heart of Sri Lankan hill country. It is the home of the famous Ceylon Tea and the rolling mountains are a carpet of velvety green tea plantations, interspersed with gushing streams and tumbling waterfalls. The salubrious climate, misty glens and the decidedly British character make Nuwara Eliya a must on any Sri Lankan travel itinerary.

Evening visit to a Tea Factory.

Accommodation: Jetwing Warwick Gardens, Nuwara Eliya

DAY 05 – 3rd November

AM excursion to Horton Plains (Packed Breakfast) and proceed to Ella by train.

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Ella is a small village in the highlands of Sri Lanka which is filled with tea estates, mountains, waterfalls and of course with some good air to breath. Lots of people make Ella as one of their must visit destination just to witness the breathtaking views it creates. It is a dream place for many trekkers with some of the best hikes the Island provides.

Accommodation: 98 Acres, Ella

DAY 06 – 4th November

Early morning zipline experience after breakfast.

Proceed to Yala and en route visit Buduruwagala

Yala is Situated 309 km. south of Colombo, Yala is approximately 1,259 sq.km. in extent and is located in the south eastern corner of the island. Its northern boundaries border on the Lahugala Elephant Sanctuary and it has the added bonus of a scenic ocean frontage. The terrain is varied flat plains alternating with rocky outcrops. The vegetation ranges from open parkland to dense jungle. Water holes, small lakes, lagoons and streams provide water for the animals and birds. The specialty here is the large numbers of elephants.

Accommodation: Cinnamon Wild Yala

DAY 07 – 5th November

AM Safari to Yala National Park and Proceed to Unawatuna.

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Unawatuna is a beautiful destination with palm-lined beaches, turquoise waters and a good selection of guesthouses and restaurants which is very popular with travellers.

Evening at leisure.

Accommodation: Sielen Diva, Unawatuna

DAY 08 – 6th November

Proceed to Colombo after Breakfast and en route visit the Galle fort.

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Colombo – The trade capital has long been the traditional gateway to the orient. Today, Colombo is a fascinating city with a happy blend of east & west, past & present with a charm of its own. The main seaport of Sri Lanka is in Colombo & adjoining it, is Pettah, which is the local bazaar & trading area. Other places of interest are the beautiful Buddhist temples, Hindu temples, the historic Wolfendhal church, the main residential area – cinnamon gardens and the BMICH – International Conference Hall and the commercial area – Fort.

Accommodation: Uga Residencies, Colombo

DAY 09 – 7th November

Departure