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Overview
If you yearn for a tropical, lush, exotic, yet serene destination to rejuvenate your soul but also pique your interest, the tropical island nation of Sri Lanka is the place for you. This oasis of nature, beauty, warmth and history is the perfect place to travel on your next romantic holiday or family vacation. There is something for everyone in Sri Lanka and our Exploring Classic Sri Lanka small group tour will take you on a journey where you will experience the magnificence of this ancient land. Set in the Indian Ocean in South Asia, Sri Lanka has a history dating back to the birth of time. Few places in the world can offer the explorer the remarkable combination of amazing monuments, magnificent landscapes, pristine beaches, captivating cultural experiences, and all in such a unique and compact location. Sri Lanka also boasts many UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are sure to interest the curious traveller. That’s not all, on this tour of a lifetime you will also be privy to some of the rarest teas in the world as Sri Lanka is one of the largest tea producing countries you could ever visit. Similarly, every day is a safari in Sri Lanka as the country is home to a huge variety of animals. A truly unique destination and one that our Explore India clients have been asking us to take them to for several years now. Be the first to discover the oasis of Sri Lanka with Explore India Journeys Inc.
Tour Highlights
- Enjoy the warm-hearted smiles and friendliness of the Sri Lankan people throughout your tour
- Dine on some of the best of the Sri Lankan cuisine
- Visit Dambulla Rock Cave, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is one of the largest and best-preserved cave sites in Sri Lanka
- Experience the magnificence of the Sigiriya Rock Fortress, another UNESCO World Heritage Site and often referred to as the ‘Eighth Wonder of the World’s – most photographed rock fortress in the world
- Explore the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa
- UNESCO World Heritage Site Anuradhapura Ruins is one more of the many UNESCO sites in Sri Lanka for you to experience
- Visit the famous city of Kandy and its beautiful botanical gardens
- Take a train ride to one of the oldest tea plantations in Sri Lanka where you can try the world-famous Sri Lankan teas
- Revel in the natural landscape of the mountain region of Nuwara Eliya
- Enjoy the spectacular view from Sri Lanka’s most famous viewpoint ‘The World’s End’ in Horton Plains National Park
- See a variety of animals roaming the plains at Yala National Park
- Feel the spiritual energy at Kataragama Devalaya, one of Sri Lanka holiest cities
- Enjoy a day on the beautiful beaches of Sri Lanka
Itinerary
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Day 1:
Arrival in Sri Lanka
Upon arrival you will be met by your English-speaking driver and guide who will transfer you to your hotel in Negombo.
Transfer Time: Approx. 30 Min. Check into your hotel where you can relax after your long flight.
Negombo is sometimes known as ‘Little Rome’ due to the profusion of Christian Churches throughout the area. This archetypical fishing village has, over the years, taken on more of a beach type atmosphere due to the beautiful landscapes found here. Negombo is just 15 minutes from the International Airport, which is convenient for the traveller looking for some relaxation. The pristine beaches and safe waters are perfect for swimming and sunbathing too. The nearby fish market is a busy place where daily trading of a variety of fish, prawns and crabs takes place each morning. Traditional large sailed outrigger canoes are a picturesque 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 and the Dutch Canal which was a supply route for the Dutch administration.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Jetwing BeachJetwing Beach
Porutota Road, Ethukale, Negombo 11500, Sri Lankahttps://www.jetwinghotels.com/jetwingbeach+94 312 273 500Ayubowan! (May you live long)
Named after the coastal landscapes that have drawn travellers here for centuries, our home of Sri Lankan hospitality is no stranger to visitors from around the world. As a wonderful example of local design fused with modern architecture, we have created a natural invitation that is fitting of our hometown heritage.
Sharing the strip with our family of Negombo hotels, the Jetwing legacy shines as bright as the sun upon our resident shores. Here, at one of our landmark homes on this tropical island, our nostalgic values meet beachfront luxury in an atmosphere that is bound to pamper and enchant you.
To complement your luxury accommodation at Jetwing Beach, our home of Sri Lankan hospitality features a variety of modern amenities to ensure your stay with us is both comfortable and memorable.
24-hour room service is available for every one of the Deluxe Rooms and Suites at Jetwing Beach, along with the added pleasures of daily housekeeping and laundry services for complete luxury on our northwestern coastline. To help you stay connected, free Wi-Fi is available throughout the premises while dedicated I.D.D., fax, and e-mail facilities can be provided at your desire. Postal facilities are also available, should you wish to opt for a more traditional form of communication in the form of a letter or even a parcel.
Our friendly associates at Jetwing Beach are obliged to go above and beyond to accommodate your requests. With a left luggage facility, we will also look after your bags should you wish to venture beyond the premises for an extended period of time. Alternatively, you may also indulge in some retail therapy within the premises with a Spa Ceylon store as well as a gem and jewellery store by Careem’s.
For a holistic wellness experience, our home of Sri Lankan hospitality not only has the luxury of hosting two swimming pools, but also a fully equipped gym, open-air tennis court, and blissful spa for experiences that let you wind down or work out. Finally, beyond our facilities for leisure, Jetwing Beach features a modern conference hall with advanced facilities that can accommodate up to 100 people for your next meeting or event.
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Day 2:
Visit to Negombo Fish Market
We have an early start to the day, 5:30 a.m., as we visit the famous Fish Market of Negombo. This is an early but interesting venture as you will see displays of market fresh fish for sale. This is also a wonderful cultural experience that is fun for you and the locals alike. You will then return to the hotel for breakfast and some relaxation before departing for the drive to Habarana. On the way to Habarana you will have the opportunity to visit the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple.
Transfer Time: Approx. 4.5 Hrs.Dambulla is a town situated in the Matale Central Province of Sri Lanka. The Dambulla Rock Cave Temple is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which dates back to the 1st Century BC. This amazing complex of 5 caves was initially used as a refuge by an ancient king who, on regaining his throne, commissioned works of magnificent carved images within the living rock. Other kings followed suit and made further improvements on the caves. Now the caves contain over 150 images of the Buddha, the largest is a colossal figure spanning 15 stunning meters. Also adorning the cave walls are inscriptions from the 2nd Century BC, and beautiful paintings too, most of which belong to the Kandy period (early 19th century). This temple is a perfect location to view the evolution of ancient Sri Lankan art and is an important historical site due to the amalgamation of the material from many eras.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Lodge HabaranaCinnamon Lodge Habarana
02 50150, Habarana Roundabout, Habarana, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamonlodgehabarana+94 662 270 011Would you like to travel back to a classier era, where polished architecture was still earthy, food was ‘organic’ without calling it that, trees and birds lived around humans because they trusted them. Well, if you like the sound of it, you’re most welcome to Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, surrounded by over 2000 trees, that are home to serpent eagles, kingfishers and monkeys alike. We love this co-existence, and so, while we take care of them, we go an extra mile and add a little personal touch to everything we do for you at our home.
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Day 3:
Visit to Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Polonnaruwa Ruins
After an early breakfast, you will visit the 5th Century old Sigiriya Rock Fortress.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is a spectacular rock fortress and 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 Kashyap (477-495 A.D), the ‘Lion Rock’ is a citadel of unusual beauty rising 200 metres from the 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 are painted in earth pigments on plaster. The old stairway to the top, led through the mouth of a crouching lion, was a magnificent site. Today, only the incredible huge paws remain which gives an indication of how massive the head of the lion was. As it remains, even the paws are an incredible site to behold. The Sigiriya Rock Fortress is a truly magnificent piece of Sri Lankan history and a stop on your tour to Sir Lankan that you will always remember.In the afternoon you will set off to explore the Medieval Capital of Polonnaruwa.
Transfer Time: Approx. 1.5 Hrs. (Sigiriya – Polonnaruwa)The second most ancient of Sri Lanka’s kingdoms, Polonnaruwa, was first declared the capital city by King Vijaya bahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070 CE to reunite the country once more under a local leader. Polonnaruwa is known to have been the pinnacle of the Golden Age of Sri Lanka. During the reign of Parakramabahu I, a ruler whose goal was to ensure no drop of water falling from the heavens be wasted, led to the development of irrigation systems which are still utilised to this day. The greatest of these systems – the Parikrama Samudra (Sea of Parikrama) is a tank so vast that it is often mistaken for an ocean. It circles the main city like a ribbon, acting both as a defensive border against intruders and the lifeline of the people in times of peace.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Lodge HabaranaCinnamon Lodge Habarana
02 50150, Habarana Roundabout, Habarana, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamonlodgehabarana+94 662 270 011Would you like to travel back to a classier era, where polished architecture was still earthy, food was ‘organic’ without calling it that, trees and birds lived around humans because they trusted them. Well, if you like the sound of it, you’re most welcome to Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, surrounded by over 2000 trees, that are home to serpent eagles, kingfishers and monkeys alike. We love this co-existence, and so, while we take care of them, we go an extra mile and add a little personal touch to everything we do for you at our home.
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Day 4:
Visit to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Anuradhapura Ruins
Today you will visit the first capital of ancient Sri Lanka.
Transfer Time: Approx. 1.5 Hrs. (Habarana – Anuradhapura)
Anuradhapura is one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka and home to some of the most magnificent ruins in South Asia. It is the centre of the island’s Buddhist civilization and undoubtedly the grandest city of ancient Sri Lanka. It is also home to the oldest historically documented tree on earth (over 2,200 years old) – The Sri Maha Bodhi, brought as a sampling of the tree under which the Buddha attained enlightenment. The island’s oldest Buddhist shrines – some dating back to the 3rd century BC, are impressive white ‘dagabas’ which are ‘relic chambers’ made of brick. It is a pleasant stroll through Anuradhapura as you see beautiful stone carvings, picturesque gardens, beautifully executed stone baths and ponds and a superb irrigation system of reservoirs and canals. Specific places to visit are the Brazen Palace which houses the remains of a magnificent multi-storied residence for monks. Engineering marvel, Ruwanweli Seya is another interesting site as it is the most famous of all the dagoba’s. Other notable monuments are, Samadhi Buddha, regarded as the finest rock sculpture in the island, Isurumuniya Rock Temple, which is known for its rock carving of the ‘Lovers’, Kuttam Pokunar or ‘Twin Ponds’ ponds which were used by monks of this glorious era as a bathing pool. Thuparama (3rd century B.C.), the oldest dagoba in the island – enshrines the right collarbone of Buddha. So many monuments and points of interest that you will have the opportunity to view and learn about in the ancient land.
Later, you will return to your hotel to relax and spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Lodge HabaranaCinnamon Lodge Habarana
02 50150, Habarana Roundabout, Habarana, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamonlodgehabarana+94 662 270 011Would you like to travel back to a classier era, where polished architecture was still earthy, food was ‘organic’ without calling it that, trees and birds lived around humans because they trusted them. Well, if you like the sound of it, you’re most welcome to Cinnamon Lodge Habarana, surrounded by over 2000 trees, that are home to serpent eagles, kingfishers and monkeys alike. We love this co-existence, and so, while we take care of them, we go an extra mile and add a little personal touch to everything we do for you at our home.
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Day 5:
Travel to Kandy and visit the Temple of The Tooth Relic & Royal Botanical Gardens Kandy is one of many UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Sri Lanka.
After breakfast you will embark on your journey to Kandy. On the way you will have the opportunity to visit the Matale Spice Gardens where you will learn about why Sri Lanka is known as Taprobane. (The Greeks referred to the Indian ocean island of Sri Lanka as Taprobane)
Transfer Time: Approx. 2.5 Hrs.You will see many spice gardens at Matale and in Mawanella on the Colombo-Kandy road where cinnamon, cardamom, pepper and all the other spice trees, plants and creepers are planted for visitors to see them. Spice products are also available for those who would like to buy them. During time at the Spice Gardens, visitors are taken through the gardens and the guide talks about the trees and plants and what kind of spices they produce etc. The visitor also learns various cooking techniques for the use of spices in the area. Afterwards, visit a Batik Factory where you can see the manufacture of beautiful Batik prints. These shops contain a wide variety of Batik paintings and prints for purchase if you wish.
Later, you will go on a city tour including a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic. Also known as Sri Dalada Maligawa. The Sacred Tooth Relic is situated in the ‘city hills’ of Kandy. In the evening you will see the Puja Ceremony and then visit the Royal Botanical Gardens.
Kandy is a lovely city, the Hill Capital and last stronghold of the Sinhala Kings. Another of the countries many UNESCO World Heritage Sites which adds to its aura of grandeur. Encircled by hills, with a tranquil lake in its centre, it is the site of the renowned temple that enshrines the Tooth Relic of the Buddha and the Royal Botanical gardens and is home to one of the world’s best collections of Orchids. A cultural sanctuary where many legends, traditions, and folklore are still lovingly kept alive, Kandy, and its satellite villages, are the centre of the islands handicraft industry. Many materials such as wood, brass, and silver are used here to make exquisite jewellery and other goods. The world’s best blue and star sapphires can also be found here and crafted into beautiful pieces of adornment. There is lots of shopping in Kandy and you will have the opportunity to browse through the shops at all the tempting items.
A highlight in Kandy each year is the ‘Esala Perahera’ which is a 10-night festival where a replica of the casket enclosing the famous tooth is taken by costumed dancers in a procession accompanied by drummers and approximately 100 Elephants. July/August.
Later, you will return back to the hotel for an overnight stay.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Citadel KandyCinnamon Citadel Kandy
Srimath Kudarathwatta Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamoncitadelkandy+94 812 234 365If being close to nature sounds like your perfect holiday, a lovely river by the misty hills with a little forest area at its periphery is waiting for you. We’ll set up your date with nature in all its glory whenever you want, though we suggest one at sunset. While it grows on you, sip on some tea and snacks on the terrace, until you’re tempted to take a walk around. If you’re even slightly lucky, you’ll spot a huge colony of bats flying against a blue evening sky and you’ll be quite surprisingly struck by how dramatic that feels. The atmosphere gets a little more magical into the night with warm lights, the pool’s reflection on the white walls, and a band playing by the lounge.
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Day 6:
Cookery Demonstration with Sulochana & Visit to Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage
After a leisurely breakfast, step into Sulochana’s kitchen as she invites you on a flavoursome journey. Your host for the morning, Sulochana, manages a homestay for keen travellers and is an expert in Sri Lankan cooking. Join her on the morning shopping run to local markets in search of the best produce of the day. When you return back to her home, you can try your hand at making a few spicy curries and delicacies of traditional cuisine. Tempting aromas and flavours will be yours to enjoy after the preparation of the lunch is complete.
After lunch, you will visit the Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage in Rambukkana.
Transfer Time: Approx. 1.5 Hrs. (Kandy – Rambukkana)The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is set amongst the verdant hills of Kegalle and is a unique orphanage for baby elephants. The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage is the world’s first and only elephant orphanage established to feed, nurse and house young elephants lost or abandoned by their mothers. Other occupants are elephants displaced from their natural environments by development projects or those found wounded. Visitors can see the baby elephants being fed milk from gigantic feeding bottles or bathed in the river which flows nearby – an unforgettable sight! Established in 1975 by the Wildlife Department and National Zoological Gardens, the centre has subsequently been turned into a breeding program through which more than twenty-five elephants have been born since 1984.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Citadel KandyCinnamon Citadel Kandy
Srimath Kudarathwatta Mawatha, Kandy 20000, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamoncitadelkandy+94 812 234 365If being close to nature sounds like your perfect holiday, a lovely river by the misty hills with a little forest area at its periphery is waiting for you. We’ll set up your date with nature in all its glory whenever you want, though we suggest one at sunset. While it grows on you, sip on some tea and snacks on the terrace, until you’re tempted to take a walk around. If you’re even slightly lucky, you’ll spot a huge colony of bats flying against a blue evening sky and you’ll be quite surprisingly struck by how dramatic that feels. The atmosphere gets a little more magical into the night with warm lights, the pool’s reflection on the white walls, and a band playing by the lounge.
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Day 7:
Train journey to Nuwara Eliya and visit to a Tea Plantation/ Factory
Nanu Oya. Transfer Time: Approx. 4.5 Hrs. You will be met by your driver/ guide at the Nanu Oya Train Station and you will be transferred to the hotel in Nuwara Eliya.
On arrival you will check in to your hotel and for a short rest before departing for a sightseeing tour of Nuwara Eliya where you will a visit a tea plantation.
Nuwara Eliya is Sri Lanka’s premier hill resort. With a beautiful mountain climate, Nuwara Eliya is also the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country famous for producing some of the world’s best tea. The mountain slopes and valleys are a carpet of velvety green tea plantations, interspersed with gushing streams and tumbling waterfalls. Red or green roofed plantation bungalows, English country style homes and hotels with lovely flower gardens, and even an 18-hole golf course, depicts of the remnants of British character.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Grand Hotel Nuwara EliyaGrand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Grand Hotel Rd, Nuwara 22200, Sri Lankahttps://thegrandhotelnuwaraeliya.com/+94 52 2222881-7Nuwara Eliya is home to some of Asia’s most exquisite parks, such as Gregory Park and Victoria Park. Victoria Park was established with the planting of its first tree, an Oak, by a visiting German Princess. It was later renamed after Queen Victoria in 1897 to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee.
Visit Gregory’s Lake or Lake Kande Ela, popular for water sports and recreational activities. It is perfectly situated amidst Nuwara Eliya’s cool climate to offer visitors and travellers the ideal haven for romantic strolls, adventurous treks and even paddle-boat or star-gazing.
The Strawberry Farms of Nuwara Eliya, offer the most sensuous gastronomic experience, as you bask in the elegant ambience of quaint cafes that serve strawberry ice cream, crepes and more. this strawberry heaven offers a truly unique experience, set to the backdrop of misty mountains and deep lakes.
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Day 8:
Trek to Horton Plains National Park
Our day starts early in the morning with an excursion to Horton Plains. You can enjoy a packed breakfast on the way to the site of Sri Lanka’s highest plateau. Horton Plains is 7200 ft above sea level in the central mountain country. This is a very scenic region with an astounding variety of scenery from mountains to grasslands and from marshes to trout streams. Sri Lanka’s best-flavoured high grown teas are grown in the surrounding areas. Spectacular views from ‘Worlds End’ where the plateau plunges a thousand feet in a straight sheer drop. This is also very good hiking country as the climate is cool and crisp. Distinctive flora as well as colourful butterflies and many rare highland birds can also be found in this area. The area known as ‘Worlds End’ is considered one of the finest views in all of Sri Lanka. The awesome escarpment drops vertically for about 4,000 feet, hence its name.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Grand Hotel Nuwara EliyaGrand Hotel Nuwara Eliya
Grand Hotel Rd, Nuwara 22200, Sri Lankahttps://thegrandhotelnuwaraeliya.com/+94 52 2222881-7Nuwara Eliya is home to some of Asia’s most exquisite parks, such as Gregory Park and Victoria Park. Victoria Park was established with the planting of its first tree, an Oak, by a visiting German Princess. It was later renamed after Queen Victoria in 1897 to commemorate her Diamond Jubilee.
Visit Gregory’s Lake or Lake Kande Ela, popular for water sports and recreational activities. It is perfectly situated amidst Nuwara Eliya’s cool climate to offer visitors and travellers the ideal haven for romantic strolls, adventurous treks and even paddle-boat or star-gazing.
The Strawberry Farms of Nuwara Eliya, offer the most sensuous gastronomic experience, as you bask in the elegant ambience of quaint cafes that serve strawberry ice cream, crepes and more. this strawberry heaven offers a truly unique experience, set to the backdrop of misty mountains and deep lakes.
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Day 9:
Travel to Yala National Park & Evening Game Drive
After an early breakfast you will be transferred to the hotel near the national park.
Transfer Time: Approx. 4.5 Hrs.On arrival to Yala, you will go on an evening game drive to Yala National Park.
Yala is home to Sri Lanka’s National Park where there are elephants, leopard, bear, crocodile and wild boar roaming freely. A large area of 97,800 hectares, this is the second largest of Sri Lanka’s national parks. Recently, the park has received a lot of attention through publicity by National Geographic and the Discovery TV channels, both of which focused on a leopard research/conservation and identification project. Vegetation is primarily grassland and shrub in the jungle with patches of dense growth. There are also several salt and fresh water lagoons which are a haven for a large variety of resident and migrant birds. Areas popular with leopard are rock strewn hillocks with dense shrub in which the animals take retreat.Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Wild YalaCinnamon Wild Yala
Palatupana, Kirinda 82614, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamonwildyala+94 472 239 449We’re so glad to sense the excitement you’re filled with, to meet our wild neighbours. Yes, we’ve developed the sixth sense, living around the jungle. We’re hoping to greet you soon but chances are, a few of our untamed friends might meet you before us, as the path that you’ll pass to reach us is also the route they take for an evening walk. A little lake bordering us has a few crocodiles, but they keep a safe distance from us. In fact, we set up romantic dinners on a deck, right by the lake, under a starry sky, and trust us it’s beautiful. You might even spot an elephant drinking water off the pool as you sip on your drink at the ba
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Day 10:
Morning Game Drive & Visit to Kataragama Temple in the evening
Early morning game drive to Yala National Park and later to Kataragama Temple.
Kataragama Devalaya is one of Sri Lanka’s holy cities where Hindus, Buddhists and Muslims visit on religious pilgrimage. It is a large Complex with the `Mahadewala’ (main Hindu shrine) being the most important place. This Shrine of God Skanda is popularly described in eulogies as God having six faces and twelve arms and whose assistance is sought for worldly gain. It is believed that King Dutugemunu, the warrior king and Sinhala folk hero, built a shrine here for the worship of the Kataragama God in the 2nd century BC. There is also a first century BC Buddhist Dagoba – `Kirivenhera’ at this site.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Wild YalaCinnamon Wild Yala
Palatupana, Kirinda 82614, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamonwildyala+94 472 239 449We’re so glad to sense the excitement you’re filled with, to meet our wild neighbours. Yes, we’ve developed the sixth sense, living around the jungle. We’re hoping to greet you soon but chances are, a few of our untamed friends might meet you before us, as the path that you’ll pass to reach us is also the route they take for an evening walk. A little lake bordering us has a few crocodiles, but they keep a safe distance from us. In fact, we set up romantic dinners on a deck, right by the lake, under a starry sky, and trust us it’s beautiful. You might even spot an elephant drinking water off the pool as you sip on your drink at the ba
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Day 11:
Travel to Bentota and visit Galle Fort
After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to Bentota. Transfer Time: Approx. 4.5 Hrs.
On the way to Bentota you will visit Galle Fort.Galle is said to be the famous ‘Tarshish’ or seaport, of the Bible where King Solomon obtained gems and spices. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is the port where the Portuguese first landed in Sri Lanka in 1505. Captured and fortified by the Dutch, who ruled maritime Sri Lanka in the 17th and 18th centuries, the city still retains the air of old Holland. Within the well preserved 90-acre fort are old Dutch churches and monuments, an imposing crested and monogrammed gateway, and many well-preserved houses which still have the Dutch names. The internationally renowned Amangalle Hotel, originally built in 1684, and several other excellent boutique hotels, are testimony to the importance of this location.
Arrive and check in at your hotel. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to spend as you wish.
Bentota is situated on the Northern limit of the Southern Province, at the confluence of the sea and the Bentota River and 62 km from Colombo. Its location, at the mouth of the Bentota River, and its picturesque, sandy, palm-fringed beaches which border the warm, sparkling waters of the Indian ocean, make Bentota a natural choice for development as Sri Lankas’ first planed tourist resort. Today Bentota is a stop on any Sri Lankan vacationers list because of the attractive coastline, beaches, and variety of distinctive hotels.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Avani Bentota ResortAvani Bentota Resort
Hotel Road, Bentota 80500, Sri Lankahttps://www.avanihotels.com/en/bentota+94 344 947 878Relax on one of the southwest coast’s best beaches amid refreshing, contemporary design combined with Dutch heritage style.
- 75 ocean-view rooms
- Located on one of Sri Lanka’s prime beaches
- Designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa
- 2-hour drive from Bandaranaike International Airport
- Close to beachfront nightlife, attractions and activities
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Day 12:
Beach Day – A Full Day at Your Leisure by The Beach
Enjoy a day at the beach swimming and relaxing. If you would like a different option for the day, please visit the hotel concierge who can make recommendations for you.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Avani Bentota ResortAvani Bentota Resort
Hotel Road, Bentota 80500, Sri Lankahttps://www.avanihotels.com/en/bentota+94 344 947 878Relax on one of the southwest coast’s best beaches amid refreshing, contemporary design combined with Dutch heritage style.
- 75 ocean-view rooms
- Located on one of Sri Lanka’s prime beaches
- Designed by renowned architect Geoffrey Bawa
- 2-hour drive from Bandaranaike International Airport
- Close to beachfront nightlife, attractions and activities
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Day 13:
Transfer to Colombo - Enjoy A City Tour - Shopping
After a leisurely breakfast you will be transferred to Colombo via the Southern Express Highway.
On arrival, enjoy a city tour including a visit to Important sites such as St. Peter’s Church, Grand Oriental Hotel, Cargills Building, President’s House, The Chatham street clock tower/ lighthouse, central point building guard post with Sri Wickrama Rajasingha’s bust and the Dutch hospital. Later, you will have the opportunity to do some shopping at ODEL Mall and the city shopping area of Kandy where you can browse through its famous jewellery shops.In the evening, take a walk in the Galle Face Green and witness colourful kites, snake charmers, and more. This is situated right in front of your hotel and is a very popular place for leisurely walking and maybe even trying some of the famous street food if you like.
Colombo was only a small seaport and came into prominence in the 16th Century. With the arrival of the Portuguese in 1505, and the development of it as a major Harbour during the British period, Colombo grew in its commercial ventures and became the capital in 1815 after Kandy was ceded to the British.
In the evening you will enjoy a delicious dinner at the Cinnamon Grand Hotel.
Meals: Breakfast, DinnerAccommodation: Cinnamon Grand ColomboCinnamon Grand Colombo
77 Galle Rd, Colombo 00300, Sri Lankahttps://www.cinnamonhotels.com/cinnamongrandcolombo+94 112 437 437Savour your penchant for finer comforts. Partner with sheer luxury at Cinnamon Grand, as you attend a business event in the capital city. Let the opulence of our meeting rooms and conference halls seep into flourishing work partnerships. Raise a toast to all the success at our plush restaurants and taste jubilance like never before. When you’ve enjoyed every bit of your Grand accomplishments , retire to your room, and relish the exquisite comforts that Colombo’s most lavish business hotel has to offer.
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Day 14:
Departure from Colombo
After breakfast you will be transferred to the airport in time for your connecting flight.
Transfer Time: Approx. 1.5 Hrs.Meals: Breakfast
What’s included
- International airfare from Vancouver & Toronto
- Accommodation based on the standard room categories at the specified hotels.
- Meal plan as mentioned above.
- Transport in an Air-Conditioned Van/Coach Van with an accompanying English-speaking Chauffer/National Guide.
- Entrance Fees for:
- Dambulla Rock Cave Temple
- Sigiriya Rock Fortress
- Polonnaruwa
- Anurdhapura
- Temple of the Tooth Relic
- Royal Botanical Gardens
- Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
- Tea Factory Visit
- Horton Plains National Park
- Yala National Park
- 02 complimentary 500ml water bottle per person per day.
- Government Tax
- COMPLEMENTARY VALUE ADDITIONS:
- 02 Complimentary mineral water bottles of 500 ml per person per day
- Visit to a spice garden
- Visit to a gem lapidary
- Visit to a Tea Factory
- Wheel Chair upon request. (Upon request only)
- Airport assistance by WALKERS TOURS representative with the English-speaking Chauffeur/ National Guide at the arrival lounge at the AIRPORT. (24 hours x 07 days)
- Complimentary Kandy Cultural Show – Gem Gallery Visit Is
- A Must to Obtain the Complimentary Coupon For Kandy Cultural – Only During Kandy Stay
What’s excluded
- Early check-in & late checkout.
- Alcohol
- Meals & beverages are not included in the package price.
- Tips & Expenses of personal nature
- Travel Insurance, VISA
- Taxes additional of $227 per person
Select a gateway:
Prices include Roundtrip Airfare from - to India.
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Recent Reviews
Apologies for the delay in regard to this reply. It has been 3 weeks since we got back but the first one was an adjustment to time and travel. There are just not enough good words to describe the trip but it was definitely spectacular and above expectations. Exceptionally well organized and highly professional personnel were involved in the tour. India is just so remarkable as there is so much history. We crammed and read 3 books about the country in advance but there is so very much more to learn. To be able to travel there and have professional tour guides with that depth of knowledge was fortunate indeed. Can’t say enough about the calibre of Sandeep Singh regarding his professionalism, knowledge, organizational skills and overall ability! Hilal Lone did a good job for us during the Kashmir part of it! Besides the 2 guides, there were a lot of people to acknowledge in regard to the success of the trip. Unfortunately we won’t be able to name everyone. However, we will start with yourself Nazir. Being patient, personable, and responsive in terms of direction up front made for easier planning. Those who headed up organization at the other end, such as Rajeev Sharma, went beyond the call of duty to get their part of the operation right. If only for our jetlag the day after we arrived, he would have got us to a cricket game! Rafiq Mohamed did his part as well for the Kashmir leg of the trip. Last but not least, people such as the driver, Dalit Singh Walia, and his assistant Anand Mishra, made the journey what it was. The wondrous architecture we saw was at times almost surreal. They were so advanced in this regard so very long ago! Because some were so spectacular and precise, pictures do not quite do it justice, one has to simply see it! Also so impressed with the people of India. Massive population but they have found a way to make it work. Seemingly caring to each other and respectful and friendly towards tourists. Maybe the “hawkers” not so much. To a certain extent, one even adjusts to the heat. After time spent at the sites the air-conditioned vehicles helped in this regard. Small detail maybe, but cold bottled water always being available was quite important. The tour offered a good mix and variation of experiences. The trip into the forest was definitely special. Viewing the wildlife, especially the Bengal tiger, will always be a memorable lifetime experience. The quality of accommodation was very high. The variety and selection for meals offered up something that I expect everyone could be satisfied with, as we were. Never knew anything about Explore India before the trip. Now that we do and experienced it, we would certainly highly recommend your company and the tour! Cheers,
Marilyn & Emil
Saskatoon, Canada
Dear Nazir Karnai, President of Explore India, This note is to heartily thank the Explore India Staff (EI) of Rajeev Sharma, Head of Operations, Mendura by telephone, our main driver & assistant, and other drivers and personnel who assisted us for Explore India. When Canadians say, ‘nothing was too much trouble’, we may sometimes exaggerate, but in the case of EI, nothing could have been more apt and honest. No detail was too small, from our initial bookings and EI contacts by telephone to the ease we felt through each thread of the trip. Our destination was India, but our journey was irreplaceable. I would not hesitate to highly recommend EI to anyone who asks and will do so as I write my freelance piece and attach it to my blog (charlesbeale.com). Thank you. My gratitude and I believe I can speak for the whole group, would not be complete without further thanks to our EI tour guide, Harry Singh, but in this response, I will only speak for myself. Harry taught me many things. He and India are delightful enigmas. Not only was he the best tour guide I have ever had, but he became a kind of personal guru, banker, time manager, and friend. Tour guides come and go, but Harry lives and breathes his beloved India so much so that some of that rubbed off on each and every one of us. In fact, there were times when we had to rein him in, such was his enthusiasm. Harry describes himself as a spiritual healer, and again, some of that personal belief affected us most strongly and positively. He became our personal banker due to the demonetization that began just as we arrived in the country. Without his purse, some of us would have been in dire straits; without his knowledge of how to manage the monetary change, we would have become nervous travellers. Although we sometimes worried about time, as many Westerners do, Harry was able to manage India time for us smoothly and in an unruffled manner. He is also the best-dressed tour guide I have ever encountered. In the end, as the peaceful and kind people of India showed us, Harry was able to deepen our meaning of empathy and love. I would, however, request that in future, Harry assigns more tourists to keep the ledgers for the counting of other than cows. Most sincerely yours,
Charles Beale
Bath, Canada
My wife and I attended Explore India’s Journey of the Senses Tour from Feb. 11 to 25, 2014 organized by Nazir Karnai. This tour included Dehli (New and Old), Varanasi, Agra, Jaipur, Jodhpur, Udaipur and Mumbai. I am writing this to express how this tour exceeded all of our expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of this Tour of India especially for those of us who were first time visitors. Every element of this tour was impeccably organized and carried out. That organization included limiting the number pf participants (30), selection of excellent historically significant places to visit and some very extraordinary places to eat with some very special unique venues. Those venues included a Maharaja Palace courtyard in Jodhpur, a grassy knoll overlooking the Taj Mahal, a desert campfire with Indian dancers and musicians, a gourmet dinner overlooking an Elephant polo pitch after playing a few games of Elephant polo. The hotel accommodations were all top notch with full breakfast facilities. I have said to many of my friend about this trip, I did not have a bad cup of coffee on the entire tour. The food on every day was excellent with most dinners and many lunches being at a gourmet level. The transportation within India was well organized especially the bus that was utilized – the bus was comfortable and had facilities on board. The various sites chosen to be visited were not only well selected but represented must see places at the locations we visited. They included both historic sites (e.g. Taj Mahal and Amber Fort) as well as interesting sites(e.g. various Ghandi related sites, boat ride in the lake at Udaipur where James Bond movie Octapussy was filmed). An extremely well organized and respectful (no camera) tour of India’s largest slum was included with a knowledgeable local person from the area leading the way in which the group was divided into small groups for viewing inside the slum. In addition to visiting extraordinary sites special arrangements were made by Nazir for us to visit the working kitchen of the second largest Sikh temple in India. Many other events were organized by Nazir for us such as a camel ride in the late afternoon of a day so we could see the sun set atop a camel followed by a campfire with dancer and musicians. Nazir not only did all of this cheerfully but with class Lastly, at all of these events we were accompanied by a staff headed by Nazir who looked after every detail and answered any question or need we had. .We were not only accompanied on tour events but also if we chose to take a brief outing during a break between events we were accompanied by Nazir’s assistant Rouf who made us feel safe and secure at all times especially where having someone who spoke the local language came in handy. Explore India’s Journey of the Senses Tour was a truly extraordinary tour. If anyone wants an amazing India experience this is the tour to take.
Peter and Anna
Vancouver, Canada
A wonderful experience, you made good choices for our itinerary. The hotels were great, the guides were full of knowledge. The greenhouse resort amazing, perhaps an extra night there would be a great addition, the palace in Deoghar could have an extra night too! The marigold hotel was a truly fantastic experience, one I'll never forget. Tell Rajeev it was a memorable trip. He took great care getting us to and from airport, we really appreciated the extra effort.
A. White
Surrey, Canada
Hello Nasir, I'm back home safely from my trip to India. Thank you so very much for the opportunity to travel with your company, and for encouraging me to go. It was impeccably planned and organized. It was an experience I'll never forget, beautiful, and warm people, rich with tradition and beliefs, and welcoming to foreigners. We even danced in a wedding procession in the street!! Every moment was filled with excitement. Ashish was the most gracious and competent guide we could have had. It was sad to say good-by to him. He took care of us all. Well done, and thank you again. Sincerely,
Sharon Happach
Qualicum Beach, Canada
Sorry for the late reply, but Violet and I have been working on – stop since our return from India if February. We have been to many places, but India was by far the most exotic and wonderful country we have ever seen. The people, sights, food, cultures were amazing! There was nothing that we could mention to improve the experience. It really was extraordinary. We wish we could have stayed longer. In fact, if we had known about the extension to southern India, we would have booked that too. Your staff was exceptional. Everyone was very professional and extremely helpful at all times. We have already recommended your company to several of our friends, and we hope to go back to India with you as soon as we can. Violet and I are already thinking about getting away again. We are booked to go to the Oceania cruise event on Sunday, April 24th We are extremely happy with the level of service and the quality the Explore India has provided. If you ever need a reference please do not hesitate to ask. Thank you for everything,
Doug Smith and Violet Allard
Vancouver, Canada
What a wonderful trip. It exceeded all expectations. My husband ,who was not too keen on going loved it. Everything was wonderful, no changes necessary to the programme. We just had a wonderful time. You need to advertise India more. It was unbelievable. Thanks very much.
Gwyneth & Keith Jones
Winnipeg, Canada
We have just returned home from the 10 days Explore India tour Magical India with unforgettable experiences and truly favorable memories. Any initial reservations or uncertainties related to travelling in such a mysterious land were quickly relieved after we received a surprise but welcoming and reassuring phone call while registering on arrival at our airport hotel in Delhi at 11:55 pm from Explore India's Head of Operations. Despite using our own travel plans to and from the tour, Explore India representatives continually provided full support to our individual travel plans right through to our arrival at the Delhi airport for our departure flight. Our tour guide was extremely effective in preparing our group with extensive historical and current information on all the amazing sites we visited. Despite travelling in a country well known for its chaos and unpredictabilities, the tour was extremely well organized and effectively delivered. Accommodations were consistently first class. Meals were of high quality, with an ample variety for all tastes. Transportation was first class with a fully modern bus operated by a skilled driver. All tours to the many amazing world-class venues were conducted with professional precision. Kudos to Nazir, Rajeev and Arvind of Explore India for providing us with an exceptionally favorable, and memorable travel experience.
Al and Karen Perras
Victoria, Canada
Now that you are back from India I wanted to thank you and Rajeev for the wonderful holiday that that you organized. I had high expectations but I can truly say that our expectations were exceeded throughout the holiday. The choice of hotels was fabulous as was the choice of cities and sites to visit. We will certainly plan another trip in the future as there is still so much to see in India and we will contact you again. Rajeev was very attentive following up with us almost every day and making sure everything went smoothly (which it did). The drivers and guides were great throughout the trip. I only have one small suggestion. Depending on your client's budget and available time, I would book one free day in some of the palace hotels just to enjoy the pools and gardens. The pace of the trip was great but I would have liked one more day at say Lake Palace or Umaid Bhawan Palace to enjoy the hotel itself. I have already recommended you to three other friends. Thanks again
Jim and Meryl Spielman
Montreal, Canada
Good afternoon Nazir, We want to let you know that we thoroughly enjoyed our recent trip to Northern India. Everyone who dealt with us on this journey, being yourself with planning and booking, Rajeev the head of operations in Delhi, Yajur our tour guide and mentor during the tours and everyone else involved, deserve rave reviews. All were knowledgeable, professional, passionate in what they did and more than willing to do that little bit extra to make our trip an exceptional experience. I cannot praise these people enough. Along with your staff, the tour program, the places we visited and the local people with whom we interacted have made us appreciate and be amazed of a country, people and culture which apparently we really knew so little about. Our minds and eyes have been opened to a wonderful place which now we hope to see more of. Oh, and going by our tour group the shopping was great also. We want to thank you and everyone involved for creating a wonderful experience for us. Best regards,
Murray and Pat E.
Edmonton, Canada
Tour Extensions
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You can read hundreds of online reviews of destinations and hotels, but with our up-to-date first-hand knowledge, we will be able to compare and contrast different options and ensure we find something that is just right for you.
You will travel to India like a member of our own family. Our deep love and passion for India and its people, we are a family owned and operated luxury travel company.
Planning a trip needs careful care and attention to detail and that is where Explore India comes in with the passion to make every tour a hassle-free and memorable one for each of our guests.
Be sure to take notice of our standard of accommodation, the specialized sightseeing trips, the seamless flow of the itinerary, the comfort of the coach you will travel in, the customized dining experiences, and much more.
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No company is big or small when you have 100% capability of exceeding guest expectations. A rating of 10 out of 10 does not adequately reflect the level of the experience and value of the tour that we provide to India especially for the first time visitors. Explore India’s success can be traced all the way back to those early days of learning what it means to be a host and to this day, our motto is to treat the guest like a member of the family. A sure testimonial to the business, given the fact that many Canadians have travelled not one, not twice, but three times with Explore India, the early teachings seem to have paid off, as touring to India with us is a sought-after experience in Canada and beyond.