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  YOUR SRI LANKA HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE -
  The Ultimate Sri Lanka – 15 days - A journey that is over flowing with the best of what the island has to offer!
   
  THE ISLE OF SERENDIDITY
  This extraordinary island set in the Indian Ocean, off the south eastern tip of India, has thousands of years of diverse culture. Still a predominantly Buddhist country, it also has strong Hindu, Christian and Muslim communities. Incredibly fertile and a great producer of exotic fruits and it was for centuries the spice producer of the world famous for its Cinnamon & Pepper. It is now best known for its tea plantations established by the British in the cooler, misty and incredibly picturesque hill country. With a strong cultural past that now offers over 7 UN World Heritage sites, Sri Lanka was once one of the richest countries in Asia. In more recent times it has not developed at the dramatic pace of its neighbours’ in the region adding to its charm and character. The relative lack of development and gentle island pace make Sri Lanka the perfect destination for those looking for a varied and stimulating holiday. Although not known for Golf, believe it or not Sri Lanka has four world class golf courses and what more could one ask for but to have them all in a tropical paradise. Once you have played here you will realize that Sri Lanka’s golf courses are one of the world’s best kept secrets.

Whether you are just coming for the golf or whether you wish to combine it with some of Sri Lanka’s incredible sites and destinations. From a long weekend to a 14 day holiday our team will create an experience that you will never forget and that will leave you only wanting to come back for more. Our “Hole in One!” experience will give you an idea of the diversity of what the island and its golfing secrets has to offer.
   
  YOUR HOLIDAY EXPERIENCE WILL TAKE YOU TO:
 
 
   
Negombo
Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
Sigiriya
Anuradhapura
Polonnaruwa
Kandy
Tea Country (Hatton)
Yala National Park
Tangalle
Galle
Colombo
   
  OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO DO:
 
   
1. Join in a game of cricket - the cricket-mad locals are always happy for an extra pair of hands
2. Immerse yourself in the Esala Perahera in Kandy – a colourful festival involving huge processions of glittering elephants, dancers and drummers
3. River bathing – we encourage you to go local and join in on daily life; take a dip in a refreshing river, dry out on a sundrenched rock!
4. Enjoy every single moment you spend on this paradise island
   
  OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO EAT:
 
   
1. Eat the freshest chilli crab with your feet in the sand under the stars by the Indian Ocean
2. An egg hopper for breakfast with seeni sambol! Watch out of the ‘kata sambol’ - it’s a definite challenge (spicy wise)
3. Buffalo Curd & Treacle - start and you won’t be able to stop!
4. Cashew nut curry – so rich and creamy you will never forget it
   
  OUR FAVOURITE THINGS TO BUY:
 
   
1. Hand woven Sarongs from Barefoot - they have the most incredible selection in the brightest of colours and are reasonably priced. Great gifts if you can bare to give them away.
2. A bottle of local brew called ARRACK …a daring drink for the adventurous.
3. Cashew nuts from Kadjugama
4. Plenty of the best Ceylon tea to continually remind you of this amazing island and to give to those who missed the opportunity to visit Sri Lanka
   
   
 
Day Destination / Drive time Accommodation Details Activities & Highlights Optional Experiences Supplements
1 Negombo (Kutogoda) (15 mins) The Wallawwa
(Bed & Breakfast Basis) - Boutique Hotel Garden Suite
Ayubowan - you have arrived! On the way from the airport stop for a delicious Tambili (King Coconut) to quench your thirst and rehydrate after a long flight. Plunge yourself into the refreshing pool and spend the afternoon relaxing with a good book and a cup of Ceylon tea in the beautiful gardens of this superb colonial manor house.

A good night sleep in a seriously comfortable bed – you will think you are floating!
 
You have just arrived so we suggest you take it easy today. After all it is your holiday!

Top Tip #1: Treat yourself to a massage at the hotel’s ‘Z’ Spa. Try the signature massage which is perfect for assisting you overcome your jetlag.
 
2 Sigiriya
(4 ½ hours plus stopping time)
Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Paddy Dwelling Room #104
Let’s set off to the Cultural Triangle.

First stop and a chance to stretch your legs at Kadjugama, the Cashew Nut town of Sri Lanka. Purchase some of Sri Lanka’s finest nuts. A great gift for someone back at home or to keep as a snack whilst travelling around the island.

If it’s your dream to feed an elephant then you must not miss Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage – home to many abandoned or injured elephants. It is one of Sri Lanka’s most visited sites. Our guests love it!

Discover Arankele – a 6th century archeological site that is famous for its ancient walking meditation platforms & meditation caves set in a magical forested hillside.

Arrive in time for delicious Rice & Curry and retire to your balcony with a good book and a cup of Ceylon tea.
 
Already plenty to do so no time for extra excursions today.

Top Tip #2: Learn the word ‘Estuti’ - it means thank you in Sinhalese and can go along way in pleasing the locals.

Top Tip #3: Don’t leave coins as tips – it’s considered ‘beggar money’ and can insult any Sri Lankan.
Treat yourself to:

Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Forest Dwelling Room #139 You will have your own swimming pool! Click here for more information Supplement ; US$ 66 per room per night

Or

The Heritance Kandalama Hotel (Half Board) – 5 star Suite – Sigiriya Wing

Reduction ; US$ 60 per room per night
3 Sigiriya to Polonnawura
(2 ½ hours return)
Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Paddy Dwelling Room #104
Climb to the top of the UN World Heritage Site of Sigiriya at 7am. An ancient rock fortress from the 5th Century. Amazing views of the Cultural Triangle!

Medirigiriya – 7th century Vatadage temple a top a rocky point.

Polonnaruwa is a UN World Heritage Site and was the Capital of Sri Lanka from 11th - 13th Centuries. It contains some splendid and spectacular statues.

Before exploring we suggest stopping for a light lunch at the Polonnaruwa Rest House. It is superbly located on Sri Lanka’s largest man made lake and is famous for hosting Britain’s Queen Elizabeth in 1954.

Soak in the surroundings of Vil Uyana.
 
When exploring Polonnaruwa take a bicycle and your very own guide and cycle through the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. A great way to see it! US$15 per person

Top Tip #4: Pay the extra US$5 to take a ‘pump man’ with you whilst cycling around Polonnaruwa. You may end up with a flat tyre and he will sort you out in no time at all.

Jeep Safari at Minneriya National Park to see wild elephants. Home to the largest gathering of elephants in the world. Don’t miss it! (It’s seasonal from Aug – Oct) US$ 30 per person
 
Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Paddy Dwelling Room #104
4 Sigiriya– Anuradhapura (2 ½ hours return) Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Paddy Dwelling Room #104
See the 5th century B.C Aukana Buddha. The most magnificent & most well preserved ancient image in Sri Lanka.

Visit our most extensive & important ancient city of Anuradhapura from 4th century B.C.

Stop of at the 7th century Mahakandarawa stone bridge situated a midst a forest.

Visit the local village temple and get an inside into Buddhism from the head monk.
 
Early morning hot air balloon ride over Sigiryia! An incredible experience with a champagne breakfast. You will never forget it. US$220 per person

An elephant ride - it will make you feel like Asian royalty US$ 20 per person
Go on spoil yourself if you have not done so already!

Jetwing Vil Uyana
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Paddy Dwelling Room #104
5 Kandy (3 hours) The Kandy House (Bed & Breakfast Basis) Admiral Super Deluxe Gallery “amazing colonial splendor”

(Dinner will be A LA Carte and payable direct by the clients)

The Kandy House (Bed & Breakfast Basis) Admiral Super Deluxe Gallery
Discover the Dambulla Caves Rock Temple dated from First Century B.C.

Visit an exotic Spice Garden in Matale where you can be treated to a garden tour and cooking demonstration to understand the taste and aroma of the world famous spices. It is quite touristy however everyone learns something and most love it.

For lunch we will stop at Aluwihare Kitchens and The Matale Heritage Centre. Eat delicious home cooked Rice & Curry in the centre’s restaurant which supports over 35 villagers. Get an insight into the incredible work of Ena De Silva – one of Sri Lanka’s prominent Batik artists who started the centre.

Arrive into the last stronghold of Sinhala Kings & UN World Heritage Site – the Hill Country capital of Kandy.

Head straight to the superbly renovated 200 year old manor house ‘The Kandy House’ - Once the home of the King’s Chief Minister.
 
Already plenty to do so no time for extra excursions today.

Top Tip #5: At the Kandy House ask for the Manager Mendis to make you an Arrack Sour. They are the best cocktail in Sri Lanka.
Villa Rosa
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Room #3 with amazing views

“incredible views” Reduction ; US$ 150 per room per night

Hotel Theva
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Superior Room
Reduction ; US$ 30 per room per night
 
6 Kandy The Kandy House
(Bed & Breakfast Basis) Admiral Super Deluxe Gallery
Explore the city’s Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic.

Wander around the lake and the streets of Kandy getting a feel for this wonderful city. For those interested in shopping for gems, antiques, clothes and leather use our shopping guide and explore the local markets and shops.

Either return to The Kandy House for lunch and an afternoon of relaxation or else visit the beautiful Royal Botanical Gardens and see its treasures of tropical flora. Keep an eye out for the amazing fig tree!

Top Tip #6: Fancy having a new suit made or one of your favourite outfits copied. Then you must visit Mr. Hamy’s shop in Kandy, named after Hinni Appuhamy who trained in Saville Row, London. He only opens by appointment and has been making fabulous bespoke suits for three generations. His grandson Sunil carries on the tradition and continues to supply the English cricket team as well as clients from all around the world.
 
Kandy excursions:
Gem Museum & Factory tour
Art & Craft Village
Private Performance of Kandyan dancing and drumming

For anyone interested in wonderful architecture we recommend you visit The Trinity College Chapel – a Kandyan pavilion open on three sides featuring murals painted by renowned Ceylon artist David Paynter. It is the only church (built circa 1800) with no walls.

If you decide to stay in Kandy for lunch we suggest for the more adventurous an authentic lunch with traditional Rice & Curry at the Olde Empire Hotel, a UN Conserved Designated Building. Ask to sit upstairs for a great view over the lake!

OR

For those that would prefer to have a picnic in the beautiful botanical gardens The Kandy House will pack you up with the most delicious lunch. Just let us know and we will arrange this for you.
 
Villa Rosa
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Room #3 with amazing views
“incredible views”

Hotel Theva
(Half Board) – Boutique Hotel Superior Room
7 Dickoya - Tea Country (via Train 4 hours) Ceylon Tea Trails
(Full Board) – Boutique Hotel Luxury Room – Castlereagh Bungalow
Spend the morning seeing how Ceylon tea is made and learn the art of becoming a discerning tea taster with the Master himself, Andrew Taylor – a descendent of James Taylor who planted the first tea seed in Sri Lanka in 1867.

Visit the nearby Warleigh Church built in 1878 by early British planters. It is situated in one of the most stunning locations.

Wander through the tea gardens and visit the local tea pluckers creche that is supported by Ceylon Tea Trails and the MJF Foundation.
 
Take a walk from Castlereagh Bungalow to Norwood Bungalow (2 ½ to 3 hours gentle walk). We recommend taking a guide with you and one of Tea Trail’s delicious picnics. There are so many magical picnic spots along the way and believe me you will not go hungry! Their picnics are seriously gourmet.

Top Tip #7: If you have been out walking you will love nothing more than to slip into a hot bath. We recommend you try one of TeaTrails healing tea baths! 
Ceylon Tea Trails
(Full Board) - Boutique Hotel Garden Suite (Palmer Suite) – Castlereagh Bungalow
8 Dickoya – Tea Country (via Train 4 hours) Ceylon Tea Trails
(Full Board) – Boutique Hotel Luxury Room – Castlereagh Bungalow
Spend the morning seeing how Ceylon tea is made and learn the art of becoming a discerning tea taster with the Master himself, Andrew Taylor – a descendent of James Taylor who planted the first tea seed in Sri Lanka in 1867.

Visit the nearby Warleigh Church built in 1878 by early British planters. It is situated in one of the most stunning locations.

Wander through the tea gardens and visit the local tea pluckers creche that is supported by Ceylon Tea Trails and the MJF Foundation.
 
Take a walk from Castlereagh Bungalow to Norwood Bungalow (2 ½ to 3 hours gentle walk). We recommend taking a guide with you and one of Tea Trail’s delicious picnics. There are so many magical picnic spots along the way and believe me you will not go hungry! Their picnics are seriously gourmet.

Top Tip #6: If you have been out walking you will love nothing more than to slip into a hot bath. We recommend you try one of TeaTrails healing tea baths! 
Ceylon Tea Trails
(Full Board) - Boutique Hotel Garden Suite (Palmer Suite) – Castlereagh Bungalow 
9 Yala National Park Kulu Safari’s
(Full Board) – Stylish Tented Camp
It is time to fly – escape the crazy roads of Sri Lanka and see the magnificent country from the air in Deccan Aviations Helicopter. Get to your destination in just 1 hour (versus 9 hours driving). This is the most incredible experience and worth every single dollar and cent!

It’s Safari time! Leopard, elephant, crocodiles, bears, deer, amazing birds….they are all here in Yala National Park.

Kulu Safari’s is undoubtedly one of the most memorable experiences in Sri Lanka. Your guides and trackers are some of the best on the island. You will dine under the stars, sleep in total comfort and even be treated to hot and cold showers!
 
Top Tip #8: Pack your own head torch
for your camping experience!
 
10 Yala National Park Kulu Safari’s
(Full Board) – Stylish Tented Camp
 
More safari’s in the morning and evening.
Swim in the ocean, see incredible birds and
relax into camp life.

Top Tip #8: The locals call leopard “Kotiya” .
Keep an ear out and even an eye.
   
11 Tangalle
(4 hours)
Kadju House
(Full Board) – Boutique Hotel Suite
A night in sheer luxury listening to the sound of the waves of the Indian Ocean. Enjoy the most delicious Rice & Curries cooked using fruits grown in the Kadju House garden and superb seafood from the local area.
 
Top Tip #9: If you love swimming in the surf or would like to have a go at boogie boarding, Seenimodera Beach where Kadju House is located is the best beach in Sri Lanka for this. Work up an appetite in the surf! Amanwella
(Accommodation on Room Only basis) – Luxury Hotel Ocean Suite

Supplement ; US$ 25 per room per night (Meals will be on a la carte basis)
 
12 Galle
(2 hours)
Kahanda Kanda
(Bed & Breakfast) – Boutique Hotel The Mango Suite
 
Early morning go down to the beach and assist the fisherman with their difficult task of pulling the net. It’s not easy, and will require you to work as a team but the catch will make it very rewarding.

Stop off at Dondra – Sri Lanka’s southern tip and visit the oldest stone building in Sri Lanka. Dondra was formerly home to a great temple dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu. In 1588 the Portuguese destroyed all temples except for this one. Learn more about its colourful history when you visit.

Arrive at Kahanda Kanda (KK) an award winning boutique hotel that will only leave you wanting more. It is definitely one of our favourite hidden treasures of Sri Lanka and the food is superb.

In the afternoon wander on the ramparts and through the streets of the UN World Heritage Site – Galle Fort. Considered one of the best examples of a living fortified city built by Europeans in South and South East Asia.

There is so much to discover and it is best to do it on foot. Use our map as well as our shopping & eating guide to discover the best of this Fort. Your guide will also assist you.
 
Top Tip #6: For those wanting to purchase a Sri Lankan gem there are some great jewelers in Galle Fort. See our shopping list of who we recommend. Amangalla
(Accommodation on Room Only basis) - Luxury Hotel Suite

Supplement ;
US$ 30 per room per night (Meals will be on a la carte basis) 
13 Galle Galle Face Hotel
(Bed & Breakfast) Oceanic Suite – Regency Wing
Stop off at Lunuganga – the country residence of Sri Lanka’s world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. Set on 15 acreas of Italian inspired garden and surrounded by lake it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Asia.

Welcome to the big city of Colombo. First stop is lunch & shopping at Barefoot

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple & Simamalaka Shrine designed by Sri Lanka’s leading architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Sunset Cocktails on the checker board of the Galle Face Hotel - Asia’s oldest hotel located on the Indian Ocean in the centre of Colombo. Be there by 5.45pm to catch the sunset.

Superb dinner at Sri Lanka’s most stylish restaurant Gallery Café – once the office of the world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Top Tip #11: Try the Prawn Curry at Gallery Café and remember to keep room for dessert. The Chocolate Nemesis is to die for!
 
We recommend stopping on the roadside at Kalutara and purchasing our favourite tropical fruit – Mangosteens – they are exquisite. If you have not already tried one you absolutely must!

For those interested in shopping we suggest that you visit some of our favourite shops such as Paradise Road, Rithihi for beautiful sari’s and shawls, Odel for an amazing assortment of cheap branded clothing made for the export market and Jewel Qudsi for those wanting to do some gem shopping.
Amangalla
(Accommodation on Room Only
basis)
- Luxury Hotel
Suite
14 Galle to Colombo
(3 ½ hours)
Galle Face Hotel
(Bed & Breakfast) Oceanic Suite – Regency Wing
 
Stop off at Lunuganga – the country residence of Sri Lanka’s world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa. Set on 15 acreas of Italian inspired garden and surrounded by lake it is one of the most beautiful gardens in Asia.

Welcome to the big city of Colombo. First stop is lunch & shopping at Barefoot

Gangaramaya Buddhist Temple & Simamalaka Shrine designed by Sri Lanka’s leading architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Sunset Cocktails on the checker board of the Galle Face Hotel - Asia’s oldest hotel located on the Indian Ocean in the centre of Colombo. Be there by 5.45pm to catch the sunset.

Superb dinner at Sri Lanka’s most stylish restaurant Gallery Café – once the office of the world renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa.

Top Tip #12: Try the Prawn Curry at Gallery Café and remember to keep room for dessert. The Chocolate Nemesis is to die for!
 
We recommend stopping on the roadside at Kalutara and purchasing our favourite tropical fruit – Mangosteens – they are exquisite. If you have not already tried one you absolutely must!

For those interested in shopping we suggest that you visit some of our favourite shops such as Paradise Road, Rithihi for beautiful sari’s and shawls, Odel for an amazing assortment of cheap branded clothing made for the export market and Jewel Qudsi for those wanting to do some gem shopping. 
Treat yourself to an upgrade:
The Park Street Hotel
(Bed & breakfast) – Boutique Hotel The Beghum Suite which boasts its own large terrace and private garden
Supplement ;
US$ 265 per room per night

The Park Street Hotel (Bed & breakfast) – Boutique Hotel Deluxe Room

Supplement ;
US$ 36 per room per night
15 Colombo to Airport
(40 minutes)
Homeward bound!
Or perhaps you would like to stay on a little bit longer in some of these locations? We can tailor make an experience of a life time that you will never forget. Just let us know!
Its time to leave the isle of Serendipity!

Stop for your last Tambili on the way to the airport!
 
Fancy your last bit of shopping – enjoy the Duty Free shops at the airport. We love Odel and Stone & String.

Top Tip #13: Prepare for your long journey with a fantastic foot or back massage at Foot Rub for only US$10 – US$15. A good way to spend your last lot of Sri Lankan Rupees. Up, up and away!
Amanwella
(Accommodation on Room Only basis) – Luxury Hotel Ocean Suite

Supplement ; US$ 25 per room per night (Meals will be on a la carte basis)
 
           
  LET THE PICTURES DO THE TALKING
   
 
     
     
     
     
     
     
     
   
 
   
   
  Note: © 2010 Diethelm Travel Sri Lanka All rights reserved. No part of this tour may be reproduced without our written permission.