Treasures of Sri Lanka

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Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Colombo - Wattala

Accommodation: Pegasus Reef Hotel or similar, Wattala

Upon arrival at Bandaranaike International Airport (the country's only international airport), we are met and transferred to our hotel in Wattala, situated just north of Colombo. Our airport representative will be waiting for us in the arrival hall, located after passing out of the customs area. Look out for the signboard. Although Colombo is the commercial capital and by far the largest city in Sri Lanka, it is still relatively small by Asian standards. We do not stay in the capital itself, but in a place by the beach. Here, you can hire a bike to explore or, as most travellers choose, relax on the beach and soak up the sun, sand and surf before heading off on your tour.

Day 2: Mihintale - Anuradhapura

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Galway Miridiya Lodge or similar, Anuradhapura

(Driving time: approx 6½ hours) After breakfast, we proceed to Mihintale – the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism. It was here that the King of Anuradhapura was deer hunting when he met Mahinda and was converted to Buddhism in 247 BC. Mihintale is therefore regarded as the cradle of Buddhism in Sri Lanka and there are many pagodas, monasteries and caves to be visited. There are also 1840 stone steps which you need to climb to get to the site, but you are rewarded at the top with absolutely spectacular views over the surrounding plains. A twenty-minute drive takes us to the ancient city Anuradhapura, built in the 3rd century BC and capital of the Sinhalese people for 1000 years from the 4th century BC, despite frequent invasions from southern India. Today it is the largest and most important ancient site in Sri Lanka and there are a wealth of old palaces, temples, 'dagobas' (Buddhist monument) and Buddha statues to explore, covering a huge area. The most visited part is the sacred bo tree which is said to have been planted from a sapling from the tree under which Buddha gained enlightenment. This was brought from India by Sangamitta, the daughter of the great Indian emperor, Ashoka, who had sent his own son, Arahath Mahinda, to spread Buddhism in Sri Lanka. It is one of the most important pilgrimage places in the country.

Day 3: Giritale - Polonnaruwa

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

Accommodation: Royal Lotus or similar, Polonnaruwa

(Driving time; approx 2 hours) Today we take to bikes and cycle at a leisurely pace through a series of small villages to Dambalawewa Lake. Please note that we use the best available bikes, but these are not of a great standard and are certainly not comparable to those that you might be use to at home. Please don't expect a deluxe model! Along the way we pass many locals washing their clothes in the huge tanks (man-made lakes) - a very colourful spectacle. We should see plenty of bird life including egrets, brahminy kites, kingfishers and bulbuls. We enjoy a traditional Sri Lankan lunch today in a village. Our overnight accommodation is in a hotel on the banks of the picturesque Giritale Lake, located near the ancient city of  Polonnaruwa.

Day 4: Polonnaruwa

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Royal Lotus or similar, Polonnaruwa

After breakfast we explore the ancient city of Polonnaruwa, with its immense Buddhas statues carved from the rock. This ancient city is a delight to wander through. Although not as important historically as Anuradhapura, the remains are better preserved and there are some truly awe-inspiring monuments to be seen. Some of the most impressive are the massive carvings of Buddha which are hewn out of bare rock. It is not difficult here to take a step back in time and imagine life as it must have been here almost a thousand years ago. The city itself was established when the Sinhalese moved their capital from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa in the early 12th century. Later in that century, the city experienced its heyday under the ruling of Parakramabahu. He went on a building spree, constructing the huge lake and the many large buildings and parks that we visit. In the evening we have the chance to enjoy an optional elephant-back safari at Habarana before returning to our hotel.

Day 5: Sigiriya - Dambulla - Kandy

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Topaz or similar, kandy

(Driving time: approx 4½ hours) After breakfast we continue to Sigiriya, an extraordinary citadel built on top of an immense rock. King Kassapa who had killed his father and feared retribution built this virtually impregnable structure in 471AD. It's a challenging walk to the terrace, which sits beneath enormous carved lion paws (remnants of the lion façade that once protruded from the edifice) and a further walk to the summit offers great views as we explore the ponds and structures that cover the top of the rock. The interesting 1500-year-old frescoes are remarkably well-preserved. We then continue our journey to Dambulla, where we visit Dambulla Rock Temple - a series of five caves is home to some fascinating rock art and many Buddha statues. Carved out of the rock, this extensive series of caves are covered from floor to ceiling with extraordinarily well-preserved frescoes depicting all kinds of Buddhist imagery. The complex is the largest of its kind in the world and the biggest cave is over 50 metres long. The caves have been places of worship for more than 2000 years, although the frescoes have been added at various times through the ages. From there we travel to Kandy, via Matale Spice Garden, where many of Sri Lanka's world-famous spices are grown. Sri Lanka has a long history of producing spices. The climate required for production of many crops is actually quite restrictive and only a small area of the country offers ideal conditions. At these small roadside gardens, a local specialist guides us through the many varied plants and explains their uses. Some like cinnamon, coffee, vanilla we may be familiar with, but others with their ayurvedic uses, we may not. In the evening, we enjoy a Sri Lankan cultural show in Kandy.

Day 6: Kandy

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Topaz or similar, kandy

While Kandy is the 2nd largest city in the country after Colombo and is the capital of the central hill regions, it is a peaceful and attractive place. There are plenty of scenic walks through the hills and forests that surround the town as well as along the lake that forms its centre. We start our day with a city tour. In the heart of the town is the Temple of the Tooth (Dalada Maligawa), the most important shrine in the country, which houses a relic of a tooth of Buddha taken from his funeral pyre in 543 BC. It is renowned for its daily 'Thewawa' ceremony. Each evening, the day's worship culminates when the casket containing the tooth relic is put on display to devotees who have travelled from all over the Buddhist world. Sri Lanka's most famous festival (the Esala Perahera) takes place in Kandy every July or August. Unfortunately the exact dates are not known more than a couple of weeks in advance, as the most auspicious dates must be obtained from astrologer. This is however, one of the most amazing festivals to witness with thousands of dancers and performers and hundreds of elephants marching through the town. (Please ensure that you wear long pants or a long dress when visiting the temple out of respect to the local community). We also visit the world-class botanical gardens and the local market. There is also plenty of free time to explore this pretty town on your own.

Day 7: Kitulgala

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Kithulgala Rest House or similar, Kitulgala

(Driving time: approx 3 hours) The river's clear water is born in the heart of the peak wilderness reserve and tumbles through a rocky gorge just above Kitulgala. As the river widens, we pass the scenic area that was used as a location in the Academy Award-winning movie ''The Bridge Over the River Kwai'', which was filmed here in 1956. This is also a good place to jump in for a refreshing swim. On a clear day, we may even dive to see the remains of the actual bridge and the carriages used for the film (only for experienced divers with proper equipment). In the evening we get to enjoy a pleasant nature walk at Kitulgala.

Day 8: Nuwara Eliya

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Windsor Hotel or similar, NuwaraEliya

(Driving time: approx 3 ½ hours, plus 1 hour transfer to hotel) After travelling over Ramboda Pass, surrounded by green hills covered with tea, we reach Nuwara Eliya - an old British hill station. Nuwara Eliya itself dates back to British times and the place where officials and planters would head in the summer to escape the heat of the plains. There are great views over surrounding hills and the town lies in the shadows of Pidurutalagala - Sri Lanka's highest mountain. We have a free afternoon to do our own exploration. Whilst the colonial charm in the main part of town has perhaps faded somewhat, it can still be seen in some of the old hotels like the Grand, where you can take afternoon tea. Another place to try is the colonial Hill Club. There may also be time to take a short optional hike to the picturesque Lover's Leap Waterfall, from where there are good views out over the town.

Day 9: World's End - Beragala

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch

Accommodation: Melheim Resort or similar, Beragala

We rise early and take our packed lunch along for our hike along the hilly slopes through montane forests and tea plantations to World's End. Here the ground drops beneath your feet and there are stunning views out across the plains below you. The landscape of Horton Plains is completely unlike that which you can see anywhere else in Sri Lanka – in fact it is more reminiscent of somewhere like Scotland. At 2500 metres, the area is frequently shrouded in cloud and mist and is only sparsely covered with vegetation. There are sambar deer as well as a number of leopards. World's End itself offers magnificent views – the ground drops beneath your feet and the lowlands are visible 1000 metres below. Over 50 kilometres away the Indian Ocean can sometimes be seen - keep your fingers crossed for a clear day though! We hike along the pathways enjoying the stunning view of plains, and a visit to Baker’s Fall and World’s End an excellent view. Hike back to the main entrance of Horton Plains and drive back again through cloud forests and remote villages to Haputale and then to Beragala where a breath taking view is offered at our resort.

Day 10: Kataragama

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Mandara Rosen Hotel or similar, Kataragama

(Driving time: approx 4 hours) After an early breakfast, we commence a hike from Belagala which takes approximately two hours. During the hike you will enjoy the panoramic view of the dry zone from the hill country. At one point you would experience a panoramic 360⁰ view of Horton Plains, the mountain range, coastal plain, a few lakes and a dagoba. We'll be picked up by our vehicle and continue to Athuthusevena in time to witness feeding of the baby elephants. On the way. we stop at Diyaluma Falls, which is the 2nd highest waterfall in Sri Lanka.

Day 11: Yala National Park - Galle

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Lady Hill or similar, Galle

(Driving time: approx 4 hours) Yala National Park is the largest in Sri Lanka and home to all the big mammals found in the country. Elephant, leopard, sloth bear, spotted deer (chital), wild boar and sambar deer all inhabit the park, although as in all wildlife experiences, the sightings of some species depend on a degree of good fortune. Apart from the lager species, small mammals such as black-naped hare, grey mongoose, ruddy mongoose, striped-necked mongoose, grey Langur and porcupine are also common. The park is also famous for its abundant bird life, with over 140 species having been recorded so far within its boundaries. These birds include changeable hawk-eagle, crested serpent eagle, Malabar pied hornbill, jungle fowl, painted stork, white ibis and black-necked stork - all commonly seen. After our sojourn in Yala National Park, we then proceed to Galle. Galle was once the chief port of Sri Lanka. It is still well known for handmade lace. Here we can visit the World Heritage-listed Galle Fort (spanning 90 acres), which was originally built by the Portuguese and later extended by the Dutch in 1663.

Day 12-13: Kalutara

Meals included: 2 breakfasts

Accommodation: Hibiscus Beach Hotel or similar

(Driving time: approx 1½ hours) We transfer to Kalutara, visiting the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery en route, where we can see several species of turtles. Several species, specially the hawksbill turtle, are endangered. Most vulnerable of all are their eggs, which are left uncovered on beaches all around the coast. We stay at a beachside resort on Sri Lanka’s beautiful south-west coast.  Here we get to relax on a beautiful sandy beach and perhaps enjoy a swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and basically chill out in this tropical haven.

Day 14: Colombo

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Accommodation: Hotel Sapphire or similar, Colombo

(Driving time: approx 3 hours) In the morning, there is the option of a 2 hour yoga session for those interested, or a perhaps a swim or walk though the surrouning forest and village. Then we to Colombo, returning around lunchtime. After arriving in Colombo we check in at our hotel and have a final night to go for an optional night on the town.

Day 15: Colombo

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Your trip ends in Colombo this morning after breakfast. Check out time is usually between late morning and 12 noon, but may vary from tome to time. If your flight leaves in the evening you may wish to book additional accommodation so you have a room until departure. Your tour leader will be on hand to assist with transfers to the airport. These are not included, but can be booked through us or your travel agent.

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Your Trip

What's Included

• The services of Peregrine’s expert English-speaking local tour leader throughout the tour, and local guides at some sites.

• Sightseeing (including entrance fees where applicable): ancient city of Anuradhapura; ancient city of Polonnaruwa; Dambulla Rock Temple caves; Matale Spice Garden; World Heritage-listed Galle Fort; Yala National Park; and Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery.

• Walk up to Mihintale – the birthplace of Sri Lankan Buddhism and Sigiriya (Lion Rock) fortress.

• Bike ride to Dambalawewa Lake, Sri Lankan lunch included.

• Visit to Kithulgala wilderness reserve including a swim and nature walk.

• Guided walk to ‘World’s End’, Baker’s Fall and Horton Plains.

• Visit to Ath Athuru Sevana’s Elephant Transit Home.

• Sightseeing of Kandy including a visit to the Temple of the Tooth to witness the daily Thewawa ceremony.

• Free time to explore Kandy and Nuwara Eliya.

• Arrival transfer.

Summary of accommodation, transport & meals

Accommodation

• 14 nights Comfortable hotel

Meals

• 14 breakfasts
• 2 lunches

Not Included

International flights, airport departure taxes, airport departure transfer, visas, insurance, other meals including most lunches and all dinners, any optional tours and activities during free time, excess baggage charges, tips, items of a personal nature and camera fees (some places that we visit charge additional fees if you are entering with a camera or camcorder - your guide will advise on these and they can be paid for locally).

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Entrance

Entrance fees are included for all other sites visited as part of the itinerary. Any camera fees charged are not included. Sri Lanka also has a wealth of other historical attractions that you may wish to visit in your free time. Entrance fees to these are not included.

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Important Information

Please note that the Homestay at Polonnaruwa is SHARED accommodation and single supplements do not apply here.

About this Information

The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, things change and some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind when you read it and check with us if you want to be sure about something. The document was correct at time of printing, but you can check online for the most up to date version.  If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff in Australia. We are here to help you!

Last Updated

8 April 2013

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