Sri Lanka Round Tour (21 Days)
Sri Lanka Round Tour
21 Days/ 20 Nights
All our tours are tailor made tour. We can customize this tour in Sri Lanka to suit your requirements. You can decide where do you want to go and how many days stay in Sri Lanka. As you wish, if you mention the names of the hotels you want to stay, we can reserve it for you.
Negombo is a traditional fishing town of Sri Lanka. The fishermen of the Negombo lagoon live in abject poverty in small, thatched palm houses in villages on the water’s edge. They rely on traditional knowledge of the seasons for their livelihood, using outrigger canoes carved out of tree trunks and nylon nets to bring in modest catches from September through till April. Negombo is also home to the country’s second-largest fish market, the “Lellama”, at the north end of the town’s lagoon. There are daily fish auctions, which give tourists a chance to meet the area’s fishermen and even organise fishing trips into the lagoon and the ocean beyond. Other nearby attractions open to visitors includes Muthurajawela marshland, which is part. Being a coastal town, Negombo is housed to thousands of fisherman who actively take part in fishing on a daily basis. The excess catch is being dried & preserved using indigenous technologies. One can visit the area where locals are busy with drying fish & packing them. Well the smell is a part of the experience.
On arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport, you will get your first taste of warm Sri Lankan hospitality; representative from Aliyah Tours will welcome you at the airport arrival lobby.
Transfer from Airport to Negombo.
Negombo is a modest beach town located just 10km from Bandaranaike International Airport.Negombo is frequently where tourists spend their first day or two in Sri Lanka resting up after a long and exhausting plane ride. Holiday in Negombo will give you both multiple pleasure and value.
The Dutch captured the town from the Portuguese in 1640, lost it, and then captured it again in 1644. The British then took it from them in 1796 without a struggle. Negombo was once one of the most important sources of cinnamon during the Dutch era, and there are still reminders of the European days. Remains of colonization include the Dutch fort built in 1672, as well as centuries-old Portuguese and Dutch houses, Administrative buildings, Churches and the ceiling frescoes of St. Mary’s cathedral church.
The facilities for swimming, snorkeling, driving, wind surfing, deep sea fishing and scuba diving. The Negombo lagoon, the sea, the scenic beaches and a large polyglot community inflects the essence of the ultimate Sri Lanka holiday experience. The Dutch canal crossing the heart of Negombo is ideal for making a boat trip. The Dutch canal is the boat house for many thousand fishing boats.
Dinner and overnight you will stay at Negombo
Kalpitya is also famous for its oceanic beauty. It is definitely showing its true potential under great refinement and development, which is ultimately leading it to become a relentless tourist attraction.
During October to April is the best season to go Dolphin Watching off Kalpitiya. Around 7:00 am we take the boat and go to open sea looking for the Dolphins, and we spend the night in Kalpitiya.
The Kalpitiya peninsula, Islands and Kalpitiya Beaches are a much visited tourist destination in Sri Lanka. Kalpitiya is three hours drive from the airport. Kalpitiya is located in Puttalam district, North Western province of Sri Lanka. It is known for its serene beauty. The city consists of a total 14 islands, which are a crown for its stunning natural beauty. The Kalpitiya peninsula is 48 km long and 6-8 km wide. It has a total area of 1673 km2. Kalpitiya is a peninsula set in between the deep lagoon of Puttalam to the east and the magnificent Indian Ocean to the west.
It is an unrivalled marine sanctuary with a diversity of habitats ranging from bar reefs, flat coastal plains, saltpans, mangrove swamps, salt marshes and vast sand dune beaches. It provides nursing grounds for many species of fish and crustaceans. The coastal waters are also home to spinner, bottlenose and Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, whales, sea turtles, and even the elusive dugong that are of great appeal to potential tourists. During October to April is the best season to go Dolphin Watching off Kalpitiya.
Kite surfing, snorkeling, Boat ride & Dutch Bay Kalpitiya
Sri Maha Bodhi (The Sacred Bo Tree) / Thuparama Stupa/ Ruvanveliseya / Mirisaveti Stupa / The Brazen Palace / Isurumuni Lovers / Royal Pleasure Gardens (Gold Fish Garden or Ranmasu Uyana) / The Avukana Lord Buddha Statue / Abhayagiri Monstery / Lankarama / Elephant Pond / Moonstones / Samadhi Stature / Twin Ponds / Mihinthale Rock
King Pandukabhaya was the first Sri Lankan born king and who founded Anuradhapura may have built the fort about the fourth century BC. In fact, even by modern standards, he laid out a well planned city with four suburbs, the Abhaya reservoir, and common cemetery and established a city scavenging service. This UNESCO World Heritage sacred city was established around a cutting from the ‘tree of enlightenment’, the Buddha’s fig tree, brought there in the 3rd century B.C. by Sanghamitta, daughter of Indian Emperor Ashoka, the founder of an order of Buddhist nuns. Anuradhapura, a Ceylonese political and religious capital that flourished for 1,300 years, was abandoned after an invasion in 993. Hidden away in dense jungle for many years, the marvelous site, with its palaces, monasteries and monuments, is now accessible once again.
Anuradhapura is nestled between three vast reservaoirs known as tanks – the Basawakkulama, the Tissa Wewa and the Nuwara Wewa. Part of sophisticated irrigation system developed from the 4th c. BC onwards, therse still carry life-giving water to the field in the dry zone, living testament to the engineering skills of the ancient rulers. The raised bunds of the tanks are perfect for an evening stroll and some bird-watching, while also offering great views of the City’s dagobas.
Jaffna is a city on the northern tip of Sri Lanka. It is the administrative headquarters of the Jaffna district located on a peninsula of the same name. Prior to the Sri Lankan civil war, it was Sri Lanka’s second most populated city after the commercial capital Colombo. Jaffna has undergone much hardship due to terrorism and, ultimately, a full-scale war between the LTTE and the Sri Lankan armed forces which ended a 26-year conflict. The trauma will remain for years, but since 2009, the people of Jaffna are rebuilding their lives with renewed hope. After Sri Lanka gained independence 1948, the political relationship between the minority Sri Lankan Tamils and majority Sinhalese worsened and after the Black July pogrom, civil war erupted in 1983. The rebel Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) occupied Jaffna in 1986 and from 1989 until 1995.
After breakfast you will transfer to Jaffna.
On route you will visit Mihinthale Rock
About 16km to the east of Anuradhapura ies Mihinthale remembered in national consciousness at the cradle of the Sinhala Buddihist Civilisation. It is here that Thera Mahinda, son of the Indian Mauryan Emperor Ashoka,met King Devanampiyatissa in the third century BC, as a result of which the king embraced Buddhism. In fact the name Mihinthale, which menas the “Plateau of Mahinda” is derived from the thera’s name. Since then, various kings of Sri Lanka have blessed this rock with magnificent masterpieces of architecture.On the western slope of the mountain is the main flight of steps that would take you to Ambastala plain. It is a wide flight of steps, perhaps the widest in Sri Lanka, and is considered symbolic of the spiritual ascent of man. It has 1840 stone steps arranged in three flights. Shaded by temple trees on either side, a slow and leisurely climb along the steps listening to birdsong on a sunny day is a memorable experience. These include a hospital, a monastic complex, stupas and dagebas. While some of these structures are in an almost perfect state of preservation, some others are in complete ruin. The most spectacular of these is the Kantaka Chaitiya, which displays some of the finest architecture of the early Anuradhapura era.
Delft is the island furthest of the Jaffna peninsula, with the exception of the unoccupied island of Kachchative, which is further 30km southwest of Jaffna. This island is named as Delft in the Admiralty Chart unlike the other islands, whose names are Tamil. The island’s area is 50 km² and it is approximately oval-shaped. Its length is 8 km and its maximum width about 6 km. Delft was occupied by all three colonial powers in Ceylon in succession.
Nallur is a occupied village located about 3km south of the city centre of Jaffna. There were tanks at Nallur brimming with water yet weren’t used by many. He has narrated that the lovely purple flowers growing on these tanks were called ‘Manel Mal’ (Purple Lotus). Nallur, according to Portuguese sources, had a great Sinhala population. A Muslim Mosque did once stand at Nallur, till it was burned and destroyed by the Catholic Padre of Jaffna during the early 1600’s. Portuguese have well recorded their battles in Jaffna against the Sinhalese, Muslims and Vadukas at Nallur.
After breakfast you explore Jaffna
Graced by the presence of Lord Buddha on his second visit to Sri Lanka merely five years after attaining enlightens to make peace between two warring Naga Kings, Nagadeepa Purana Raja Maha Viharaya is among the sixteen most venerated Buddhist pilgrim locations in the island. The temple situated in the island of Nagadeepawhich, one of the islands in a cluster that is situated close to the western coast of the Jaffna peninsula with Palk Strait shaping around it. The Image House next to the stupa features a fine golden Buddhist statue. However the Stupa was constructed nearly 2700 years ago by the two Naga Kings, Chulodara and Mahodara, whose dispute over the gem adorned golden throne, was settled peacefully by Lord Buddha on the day of dark moon in the month of April. In gratitude the throne was offered to the lord Buddha, was returned to the Naga Kings and was later enshrined in the Rajayathana stupa.
Located at a crossroad, this beautiful natural well with its amazing aquamarine colour is said to be endless, with salt water in its depths attesting to its link to the sea. Legend says that this is the place where Rama, the Hero of the Indian Hindu epic Ramayana, stopped to rest and finding himself thirsty plunged his arrow into the ground at which point water came spurting out. This well has ever since provided a never-ending provider of fresh water.
After breakfast you will transfer to Trincomalee.
Trincomalee (Trinco) sits one of the finest natural deep-water harbors in the world is located 257 km north-east of Colombo, capital city of Sri Lanka. Trincomalee superb deep-water port has made it the target for all manner of attacks over the centuries: by the British takeover in 1795, the city had changed colonial hands seven times. Trincomalee is a port city on the northeast coast of Sri Lanka. Set on a peninsula, Fort Frederick was built by the Portuguese in the 17th century. This historic city is old almost beyond reckoning: it’s possibly the site of historic Gokana in the Mahavamsa (Great Chronicle), and its Shiva temple the site of Trikuta Hill in the Hindu text Vayu Purana. Within its grounds, the grand Koneswaram Temple stands on Swami Rock cliff, the holy complex contains ornate shrines and a massive statue of Shiva. Nearby Gokanna Temple has a panoramic view over the city and the coastline.Most people just pass through the city on their way to the nearby beaches of Uppuveli and Nilaveli, but the town has some charm, plenty of history and an interesting melange of people. It’s easy to spend a day or more exploring the ins and outs of the myriad waterfronts and the fort and its famous temple
Kanniya Hot Water wells have now developed into a popular attraction for those who visit Trincomalee now that the LTTE Terrorists which controlled this area has been completely wiped out. However due to the spirituality of the surroundings, many come here to calm their mind, body and soul. According to the notice board put by the Pradeshiya Saba at the wells, this well goes back to the times of King Ravana who ruled the country over 5000 years ago. According to the Hindu Legend Ramayana, there are many tales surrounding these hot water springs, one being that Lord Vishnu created the wells so that King Ravana could perform the last rites for his mother Kanniya upon hearing of her alleged demise. An additional is that King Ravana struck the rock with his sword seven times and thus the springs appeared. But now it has been accepted that these wells belonged to an great Buddhist monastery which span vast area. Experience everyday local tradition and take a bath in the holy waters of Kanniya Hot Springs. At times a current of bubbles can be seen rising from the bottom, giving you and feeling of a pot of water being heated. The hot water springs are said to be surface manifestations of subsurface hidden energy sources, however their origins are yet a mystery and is intricately linked with the history of this country.
After Breakfast you will enjoy Pigeon Island.
Located floating in the great blue 1km offshore of Nilaveli a coastal town in Trincomalee. The Pigeon Island Marine Sanctuary is a unique natural phenomenon consists of two Islands called the Large and Small Pigeon Islands. Pigeon Island, with its powdery white sands and glittering coral gardens, tantalizes with possibilities. A nesting area for rock pigeons, the island is beautiful enough, with rock pools and paths running through thickets, but it’s the underwater landscape that’s the real star. This Pigeon Island National Park has one of the best remaining coral reefs with high live coral cover in the country and is an ideal location for scuba diving and snorkeling. Sri Lanka is home to two Marine National Parks, one of which is the Pigeon Island Marine Sanctuary as well as one of the few marine national parks in the world and surely the most attractive marine national park. The reef here is shallow, making snorkeling almost as satisfying as diving, and its home to dozens of corals, hundreds of reef fish (including blacktop reef sharks) and turtles. A small boat ride will let you to this awesome piece of nature’s creations. The sun, sea, beach, corals, singing birds and the sea breeze will give you an experience of a life time. The reef here is shallow; this underwater fantasy is a piece of heaven for those interested in scuba diving, snorkeling, & surfing and its home to dozens of corals. A small boat ride will let you to this awesome piece of nature’s creations. The sun, sea, beach, corals, singing birds and the sea breeze will give you an experience of a life time.
The summit yields a dramatic vista of the surrounding jungle and contains the foundations of the palace complex, replete with bathing pool. But all this was to be in vain. Kasyapa descended from his palace in the clouds to face his brother astride an elephant, eventually taking his own life when facing certain defeat.
After breakfast you will proceed to Sigiriya.
In the evening you will visit Sigiriya.
Part hedonistic pleasure palace, part fortress and part sacred complex, Sigirya is one of the island’s most awe-inspiring archaeological sites and a leading tourist attraction. In fact some consider it to be one of the oldest tourist attractions in the world with early visitors recording their impressions as graffiti on a wall described as the world’s first interactive book. Located north of Dambulla, the site consists of a sheer rock that rises over 200m with the ruins of a palace on the top and a vast pleasure garden complex at the foot. For just two decades in the 5th c.AD, Sigiriya rose to prominence following a power struggle between two brothers, and an act of patricide that saw the then king walled-up alive by his son, Kasyapa. Fearful that his defeated brother would return from exile to extract vengeance, Kasyapa shifted the capital to Sigiriya. The Megalomaniac yet spiritual Kasyapa clearly had an eye for beauty. The Pleasure gardens include a series of symmetric pools, channels and fountains that still spurt water after 1500 years. Partway up the rock are the famous Sigiriya Frescoes, featuring 21 bare-breasted damsels that may represent celestial nymphs, but were surely modeled on Kasyapa’s own consorts. Halfway you’ll encounter a pair of giant Lion’s Paws, part of the original entrance, which required visitors to pass through the open mount of the lion.
Bullock Cart is the first vehicle in Sri Lanka, in the past once famous mode of transport of local royalty. Today this vehicle have become coordinating between the past and present. When you visit the great Sigiriya Rock, you can see a fortress that stands up in the wilderness. Where once upon a time, an aesthetic king built his hideaway to rule his kingdom, even today Sigiriya stands like a sentinel in the sky your experience begins the village called Ehelagala. It adjacent to the freat “Sigiriya Rock” you can ride the bullock cart in gravel path becomes the dust red soil of a bund. A line of black and makes its way across it, disappearing in to the grassy verge, flit between the a hive of activity butter files flit between the wild flowers, their wings coalescing and separating, in a kaleidoscope of colour. You can see many animals and birds; in the jungle. In the distance and the seemingly endless expanse of cool, cool green. Meander along the grassy bank of the picturesque Ehelagala for a truly satisfying birding experience. Reservoir is a stunning mixture of the village after the cart ride visitor can get a canoe boat ride in the reservoir. Then visitor can get experience of the pleasures of village life. Visit a poor house in the village. You can see a farmer going to his rice field with a hoe on his shoulder and his wife making the lunch to him. You can get enjoy the village tour and have a simple home cooked meal and village drink by journeying into the heart of Ehelagala. At the end visitor have a Tuk Tuk tour or Hand Tractor tour back to the starting point.
After breakfast you will enjoy Elephant Ride & Village Tour at Sigiriya.
Then you will transfer to Minneriya National Park at Polonnaruwa.
Elephant Ride in Sri Lanka is a very popular activity among the children and also one the favorites of the adults. The scenery Elephant Ride is not only a ride; it is a marvelous way to explore the Sri Lankan nature. You will get a chance to ride thought wildest regions and attractive riverside scenery if you are dreaming to have a ride with this intelligent mammal; this is the best chance you will ever get. While you are on round tour, don’t forget to enjoy the Elephant Ride as it will be a memorable activity witch you ever have. The best places for Elephant Rides are Sigiriya and it is a delightful experience as this riding path moves through lakes, villages and wildlife.
The area was designated as a national park on 12 August 1997, having been originally declared as a wildlife sanctuary in 1938. The reason for declaring the area as protected is to protect the catchment of Minneriya tank and the wildlife of the surrounding area. The tank is of historical importance, having been built by King Mahasen in third century AD. The park is a dry season feeding ground for the elephant population dwelling in forests of Matale, Polonnaruwa, and Trincomalee districts. May to October is the best time to visit the Minneriya National Park in preparation for the famous wild elephant rally. The vegetation of the park consists of mixed evergreen tropical forests, abandoned oaks, grasslands and wetlands. Among the 24 species of mammals residing in the park are elephants, leopards, lazy bear, spotted deer, deer, wild ox, wild pig, gray leopard, purple leaf monkey, The three species of mongoose, the porcupine and the Indian pangolin. Minneriya National Park has registered more than 170 species of birds. Among the nine species of amphibians in Minneriya National Park are the endemic and threatened thin frog and the common frog. Of the 25-reptile species recorded in Park 8 are endemic, including the Red Lizard lizard. Water and soil monitors are also visible here. The Crocodile Mugger can be seen near the tank. Many freshwater fish species are found in the Minneriya reservoir.
King Parakramabahu I combined three small tanks and built the largest reservoir called the ‘Sea of Parakrama’ of which you can have a panoramic view from the lounge of the Rest House in Polonnaruwa. Today the ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the, standing testimony to the discipline and greatness of the Kingdom’s first rulers. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa has been declared a World Heritage site by UNESCO. Polonnaruwa is the second largest city in North Central Province, but it is known as one of the cleanest and more beautiful cities in the country. The green environment, amazing ancient constructions, Parakrama Samudra and attractive tourist hotels and hospitable people, attract tourists.
After breakfast you will transfer to Explore Polonnaruwa.
(If you like we can arrange it as a cycling tour)
Then you transfer to Mahiyanganaya.
The next great capital which succeeded Anuradhapura and taken up for excavation and conservation by the Cultural Triangle Project is Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa was the medieval capital of Sri Lanka from the eleventh to the end of the first quarter of the 13th century AC. However, archaeological evidence suggests that there had been human settlements in Polonnaruwa even as far back as the second century BC. With the development of agriculture, Polonnaruva developed over the years as a vigorous agrarian economy. Both Anuradhapura and Polonnaruva came within the dry zone of the country and one of the formidable tasks the ancient rulers had to face was the conservation of the water necessary for agriculture. It is this exigency that led them to make the large and small reservoirs that lie scattered in the dry zone. In the fourth century AC, king Mahasena, the great tank builder, built the Minneriya reservoir not far from Polonnaruva. Some other reservoirs in and around Polonnaruva were also the work of Anuradhapura kings. This provided the farmers ready access to the much needed water, which resulted in a flourishing agrarian economy that makes them self-sufficient.
Nestled in lush green hills and built around a scenic lake, the Royal City of Kandy, at 500m above sea level, is the hub of any visit to the hill country. Kandy, a UNESCO World heritage Site, was the last bastion of resistance to colonial rule, surviving two centuries of colonial incursions by the Portuguese and the Dutch before falling to the British in 1815. Even today, Kandyans pride themselves on their distinctive architecture, music, dance and art. The showpiece of the city is the Dalada Maligawa or Temple of the Tooth Palace, which hosts the Lord Buddha’s tooth relic, an item of veneraltion to all Buddhists, is an experience no tourist should miss. Said to have been snatched from the Lord Buddha’s funeral pyre and smuggled to Sri Lanka in the hair or a princess, the tooth relic is of great spiritual significance. Strolling around the lake or exploring the numerous temples that dot the hills nearby is a great way to get the feel of this historic city. Each Year, in August, the city holds the Esala Perahera (procession), a spectacular display of medieval Pageantry replete with caparisoned elephants, whirling fire dancers, and pulsating drummers.
In the evening visit Temple of the Tooth Relic. Late evening witness the Cultural Show, experiencing the pulsating drum rhythms and colorful traditional dances at a cultural show is another must.
After breakfast we drive to Mahiyanganaya to visit Vedda Community (Sri Lanka’s Aborigines)
There after you will transfer to Kandy.
Dambana located 19km north east of Mahiyangana bordering the Maduru Oya Sanctuary is home to the indigenous “Vedda” community numbering close to 1000 individuals. Sri Lanka’s Aborigines’, or the Veddha’s meaning “people of the forest” of Sri Lanka has a history much older than prince Vijaya’s landing in 5th century BC and the origins of the Sinhala race. The natural habitat of these people, whose livelihood once depended solely on hunting, was confined to the forest. They are essentially hunter gatherer forest dwellers without much change in their life style from Stone Age to modern times. Veddha’s also collect bee’s honey and exchange it with the locals for axe hanging from their shoulders and a bow slung behind them. The total extinction of their traditions of hunting for food, cooking in open fire with a group, collecting Bees Honey, their songs and dances has now become a rare possibility. Today, the Veddha’s are more modernized as far as at least the cloths are concerned and perfect way to observe Veddha is to organise a camp close to or within a reservation However during the recent decades, they have been shifting in a slow transformation into Chena dry land for cultivation. An ideal place to observe Veddha is their last remaining village of Dambana. Veddha’s will be more than happy to show you their ways of life, with an axe hanging from their shoulders and a bow slung behind them, gives you the feeling nothing much has changed since the dawn of time for these proud warriors of the jungle.
Sri Lanka is world famous for its valuable & semi-precious Gems. Specially Sri Lankan Blue Sapphire. It is very exclusive & owns a huge reputation in the world. Clients could visit a Gemological Museum, a gem cutting factory & also can witness a documentary on Gem mining & the process. Later you can shop for Gems, Jewelry & Other ornaments. Don’t forget to collect your authenticity certificate for gems.
Wood carving is a traditional industry in Sri Lanka. Believed to be emerged in the ancient temples, the traditions & the techniques were passed from one generation to another. Today some of the wonderful craftsmen who belonged to such generations are still engaged in the field. They create wood carvings, statues, furniture, habitual masks, sculptures, handy craft, and paintings and to a variety of other products of same nature. A visit to a wood carving centre involves.
After breakfast you will visit Royal Botanic Garden / Gem Museum / Silk Garde / Wood Carving / Handy Crafts Centre / Braze work
The history of the Royal Botanic Gardens dates as far back as 1371 when king Wickramabahu III ascended the throne and kept court at Peradeniya near Mahaweli River. Later, in the reign of King Kirti Sri Rajasinghe from 1747 to 1780 this was made a Royal Garden and from 1780 – 1798 King Rajadhi Rajasinghe resided therein, where a temporary residence was erected for him. This was a pleasure garden of a Kandyan King of the 16th Century and later made in to a Botanical Garden during the British regime.The most amazing of the Garden have, Flower Garden, Palm Avenues, Plant House and Cacti, Bamboo Collection, Orchid House and Gardens, Fernery, Great Lawn, The lake, Spice Garden and Flowering Trees and the Arboretum. The most spectacular of the Gardens are the flowering trees which come into bloom at various times with peak blooming during the first half of the year. Amherstia nobilis popularly known as the Pride of Burma is the finest and a row of this is found planted near the main entrance. An extensive Arboretum of 20 ha in extent contains approximately 8000 trees. Some of these trees are magnificent specimens which are over 100 years old.
Visit the Silk Garden. Clients will be shown the process of making silk & how the handloom sarees are been made in Sri Lanka.The ladies will be given a chance to wear a traditional Sri Lankn saree & it be an ultimate opportunity to experience the Sri Lankan dressing culture. You can shop for Silk items, sarees, sarongs, shirts & many other gorgeous materials according to your choice.
Nuwara Eliya is located at the heart of the hill country 6182 feet above from the sea level. At the heart of the southern hill county is Nuwara-Eliya, Sri lanka’s highest town and a favorite hill station during British colonial times. It is still very much like an old English town with styled Bungalows and buildings. The cool calm climate, gorges rolling tea plantation which makes the best “Ceylon tea” and the breathtaking beautiful waterfalls makes Nuwara Eliya one of the most beautiful town in the world. The town is still touted as ‘Little England’, an illusion maintained by the presence of the finest 18 whole golf courses in South Asia, a racecourse, the Victoria Park and excellent trout fishing in nearby lakes and rivers. The temperature can drop to close to freezing at nights and it is common to se smoke rising from the chimneys of many Tudor-style manors. Adding to the town’s atmosphere is the spectacle of its townsfolk wrapped up in winter jackets and woolly hats, carting great bundles of turnips, leeks, marrows and cabbages to and from the markets. Nuwara Eliya is a great base to explore the surrounding countryside and there are many walks on offer, including hiking around the lower slopes of the thickly forested Mount Pidurutalaga, at 2,555m the island’s highest peak.
You can visit the Golf Club, Strawberry Farms. You can take a nice evening walk around the Gregory Lake. We can arrange horse ride, boat ride and Cycling.
After breakfast we proceed to Nuwara Eliya.
On route we Visit the Famous Ramboda Falls & Tea Factory.
Sri Lanka is blessed with over one hundred waterfalls. Ramboda Ella is the 11th highest waterfall in Sri Lanka and 729th highest waterfall in the world. The fall is height about 109m and height from Sea Level: 945m.This gigantic water fall consists of three sections. This unique and beautiful sight can be seen at the Pussellawa area of Nuwara Eliya, at the Ramboda Pass. The Ramboda Falls or Ramboda Ella or Puna Ella as these falls are called is created from Puna Oya, a branch of Kothmale Oya. It makes a twin with Dunsinane Falls which is created by Pundalu Oya, also a branch of Kothmale River, and combines at the base to form a Y shape. During normal periods of the year Dunsinane Falls which falls on the right receives more volume of water than Ramboda falls. However during periods of drought the role is reversed as Dunsinane Falls, whose branch passes through farming lands before falling, has less water coming through compared to Ramboda Falls whose branch passes through a forest reserve. In this case, instead of Ramboda Falls having more water it is more due to Dunsinane receiving less water while Ramboda remains the same.
Among the most iconic vistas of hill country are the rolling tea estates that carpet vast swathes of estates that carpet vast swathes of terrain in an emerald sea. Women draped in colorful saris resemble butterflies as they work their way deftly along the tea bushes, picking just two leaves and a bud from each branch and tossing them into the baskets slung on their backs. Introduced to the island in the late 19th century by the British, tea remains of vital importance to the economy.
Some of the finest teas in the world are produced in the hill country and a visit a Tea Factory during a trip to plucked tea is dried, crushed fermented and fired using machinery that has remained largely unchanged since Victorian times. Sri Lanka is world famous for Ceylon Tea. Clients will be shown a tea plantation & a factory. You will be able to witness the processing of Tea and also taste a cup of nice & hot Ceylon Tea. You can buy various different Tea products from the Tea shop.
After breakfast you will transfer to Horton Plains.
South of Nuwara Eliya, the Horton Plains is a hauntingly desolate, windswept plateau set at an elevation of over 2130m. A world apart from the rest of Sri Lanka, the plains offers one of Sri Lanka’s most unforgettable views & excellent trekking, including a 9km circular walk to world’s End, here the land plunges down a dizzy gorge to the southern foot hills and on clear days, even a glimpse of the sea more than 80 km away is possible. A dawn start is advisable as the clouds often roll in by mid-morning. The Horton Plains are the habitat of giant Rhododendron (an evergreen shrub with large clusters of trumpet shaped flowers), tree fern primrose and daffodil orchids and birds such as the Sri Lanka Whistling Thrush and Arranga, the Shaggy Bear monkey and the blue Mormon butterfly, herds of sambar deer, beautiful lizards and many endemic bird species enhance the Horton Plains experience and there is always the hope of a glimpse of a leopard and many other endemic and endangered Montana species.
In the 19th Century, during the British occupation of Sri Lanka, British constructed the railway lines in Sri Lanka and started the Railway service in Sri Lanka. So Sri Lanka’s hill country Railway line goes through Tea Estates, thus making the train journey a scenic ride. The views on both sides of the rail are breathtaking. The train winds through the mountains overlooking farms and villages and of course vast tea plantations. The scenery changes throughout the trip. Often at times, you are looking out at an entire green view than the next minute you are in the middle of a green forest. The train also passes through several tunnels. As well as often you can see the waterfalls too. The Demodara Nine Arch Bridges close to Ella station is as picturesque as bridges get. The bridge was constructed in the early 1900’s and is built completely out of rocks and cement without a single bit of steel. The views from the window will have you snapping photos at every turn. Therefore we facilitate our clients to get that experience.
After Breakfast we proceed to Tissamaharama to wild safari. We will transfer by train to Ella.
The 25m-high Ravana Falls cascades from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. Kirinidi Oya is the water course for this beautiful cascading waterfall. It currently ranks as one of the widest falls in the country. This waterfall measures approximately 25 m (82 ft) in high and cascade from an oval-shaped concave rock outcrop. During the dry season water level reduces drastically and Ravana falls becomes very skinny, but again becomes majestic during the upstream rainy seasons. In the dry season, the flow of water is markedly reduced, whereas rain turns the fall into what is said to resemble an area flower with withering petals. But this is not the case in the wet season, where the flow of water reduces dramatically. The falls have been named after the legendary character Ravana, which is connected to the famous Indian epic, the Ramayana. According to story, it is said that Ravana (who was the king of Sri Lanka at the time) had kidnapped princess Sita, and had hidden her in the caves behind this waterfall, now simply known as the Ravana Ella Cave. At the time, the cave was surrounded with thick forests in the midst of wilderness. It is also believed that Rama’s queen bathed in a pool that accumulated the water falling from this waterfall. Locals who are traveling to upcountry used to stop by the Ella and get shower at here, so you can stay,relax and refresh and continue your journey.
After breakfast you are engaging the Wild Life Safari at Yala National Park.
Declared on 1st March1938, Ruhunu National Park better known as Yala National Park is one of the most popular national parks in Sri Lanka and is well known for its rich ecological and archaeological heritage. The park is divided into five blocks and tourism is allowed only in block I. Block I is also famous for its wide range of wildlife, including the highest density of leopards in the country. It is situated in the southeast region of the country, and lies in Southern Province and Uva Province. The park covers 979 square kilometers. Yala was designated as a wildlife sanctuary in 1900, and along with Wilpattu was one of the first two national parks in Sri Lanka, has been designated in 1938. Yala hosts a variety of ecosystems ranging from moist monsoon forests to freshwater and marine wetlands. Yala National Park is popular among local and foreign visitors for its mega fauna – Elephant, Sloth Bear, Leopard and Wild buffalo and Wild boar. However, many smaller species inhabit the diverse habitats in the park. Although endemicity is low in comparison to wet zone forests, a large number of dry zone faunal species are found in the Yala National Park. Mammals are the biggest attraction so in addition to Elephant, Leopard and Sloth bear, keep an eye out for species such as Toque macaques, Grey langur, Ruddy mongoose, Grey mongoose, Stripe necked mongoose, wild boar, Spotted deer, Sambur, Black backed jackal and Black naped hare. The number of mammals that has been recorded from the park is 44.
In the evening you can visit Dutch Fort at Galle. The 16th c. Dutch Fort at Galle, close to the island’s southern most point has the distinction of being the best-preserved sea fort in South Asia. Enter through the imposing stone bastions that encircle the sea-facing promontory and step back in time. Inside the Fort you will find that it exudes old-world charm. The narrow streets are dotted with Dutch colonial villas and there’s a welcome absence of vehicular traffic. There are several museums and antique shops that display curiosities from the island’s colonial era. Of the many colonial buildings, perhaps the most absorbing is the Dutch Reformed Church, containing ornately carved memorials to the city’s Dutch settlers. The Fort also hosts some of the island’s most exclusive boutique-style accommodation in former villas restored to their colonial glory.
The Portuguese established the first fort in Galle. This was captured by the Dutch in 1640, after which the fortifications were expanded and the grid street system established. Further extensions were made during the British period. The passenger port gained importance, but with the construction of a breakwater at Colombo, Galle slipped into maritime decline. Stroll along the massive ramparts at dusk. Experience the tranquil ambience of a bygone era yet see life as it proceeds: children flying kites, games of softball cricket, and couples canoodling behind the privacy of umbrellas. They all seem to enhance the magic of the fort.
After having breakfast we will proceed to see the beauty of the Indian Ocean & whale watching.
Mirissa and its magnificent sandy beach cute much transform your imaginings and visions of a tropical paradise into an everyday reality. Mirissa Located close to the Southern tip of the Island of Sri Lanka and only about 200 km from the Equator, this beach is the perfect place to sit back, relax and forget about all the hustle and bustle of your other life that’s a million miles away. This small tropical beach boasts some of Sri Lanka’s most excellent and most. Since of late it has become the best place in the world to observe the mighty Blue Whale, as it has come to be that unlike other places where they roam, most of the Blue Whales in Sri Lanka do not migrate. They can be found residing among other whales and all kinds of dolphins. The ever cheery, playful dolphins will put on a show while some of the oldest and the largest marine creatures, the humpback and the blue whales, will nonchalantly glide past you, when you embark on a whale/dolphin watching excursion off the Southern coast of Sri Lanka. The perfect locations for whale watching would be Mirissa. With the whale watching season (November to April / May to October) in Mirissa being in full swing and many local and foreign tourists gathering to the Mirissa harbor, The Sri Lanka Coast Guards had increased their vigilance in monitoring the implementation of whale watch, and manage policy. To ensure that the system is adhered to by boat operators and tourists occupied in whale watching.
A long stretch of beach packed with restaurants serving deliciously fresh seafood, an equally long stretch of memento shops for the serious customer, Mask Factories & Battik Factories guesthouses and hotels in great quantities, from the cheap and cheerful to star-class, partygoers looking for a crazy night out and travelers looking for the perfect getaway. Onwards everyday at Hikkaduwa is a night life. Hikkaduwa is infamous for its perfect blends of ingredients served with rotti and almost any restaurant will offer a form of rotti. Rotti shops are placed all by the side of the Galle road and varieties offered are from cheese and chicken, devilled chicken to chocolate/ banana and avocado. Just stop by any rotti and pick your choice.
After breakfast you will proceed to Hikkaduwa Beach.
leisure at Hikkaduwa Beach
It is situated in 15 kilometers away from Galle. Along the Galle road to Colombo, you will found this mesmerizing town with a fabulous reef, waves made for surfing and people made for partying. It used to be popular only for a stopover on the way to Galle and mostly worldwide surfing fans but now the town has taken over the hearts and minds of everybody who just basically hears about it. Hikkaduwa is one of the best surfing wave’s spots in Sri Lanka, offering a clear hot water base. Surfing in the Hikkaduwa area is fairly well known and gets the best surfing during its dry season, surfers gather here from November to April, using the advantage of wide beaches with perfectly formed shorelines. The waves rise from 4 to 11 feet and even though the surfing period is well packed, a few surfers will always be wondering the beach at any given time of the year. Hikkaduwa has emerged as a modern goal for sun-seekers and wave-worshipers. The coral sanctuary along the coast of Hikkaduwa is a large shallow body of water surrounded by a reef, decorated with layers of multicolored corals, and is home to countless colorful fish. Off the beach there is a collection of small islets surrounded by beautiful coral formations. Many species of fish and large turtles are found here. The beaches are beautiful and wide and swimming is safe here. The impressive coral reef lies just offshore and is still populated with exotic fish and sea turtles. After a short distance south of the center of the reef, it decreases and begins a wider sandy beach with good wave’s ideal for board surfs and body surfing. Snorkeling and Diving, Scuba, Glass Bottom Boat Ride (you can see the marvelous underwater wander land). Glass bottom boats are available for visitors who want to admire the wonders of deep while keeping their feet dry! Scuba diving and diving in clear waters are a major past time along this stretch and is the most ecological way to see the colorful fish that dart around.
Seven species of sea turtles representing two families, Dermochelyidae and Cheloniidae are the only living members among the turtles. These seven species include the largest among the turtle, the leatherback and the smallest, the olive ridley turtle. The other five species are the hawskbill turtle, green turtle, loggerhead turtle, Kemp’s ridley and flatback turtle. Five of the seven known species of sea turtles are reported form the Sri Lanka. All the species of sea turtles found in Sri Lanka are presently endangered and are protected by law.
After breakfast you will transfer to Bentota.
On route you will visit Moonstone Mine and Turtle Hatchery.
Have you ever wondered where that pretty little moonstone on your finger actually comes from? Head inland 7km to Mitiyagoda and you can descend into the mucky world of mining – 18th-century style! Moonstone has been mined in these sweltering forests forever and the moonstone mines, little more than muddy rabbit holes, 6m or 7m long, are fascinating – as is the process of filtering out the precious stones, cutting them up and polishing them up ready for sale. Entrance is free, but expects a hardcore sales pitch in the on-site shop afterwards. To get there head towards Kahawa and turn inland to Mitiyagoda after which it’s clearly signed
The estuary of the Madu Ganga River is a complex coastal ecosystem of mangroves and islands. It is situated in and around Balapitiya in the Southern Province within the Wet zone of Southern coastal belt of Sri Lanka. It passes through the wet zone of Sri Lanka opening up into the large Madu Lagoon on its way to the Indian Ocean Maadu Estuary is perhaps one of the last remaining tracts of pristine mangrove forests in Sri Lanka, with a rich biodiversity. The Madu River is very rich in biodiversity. History states there used to be 64 islands along Madu River. However most seem to have sunk under the water, as only 25 islands are reported today and all are covered in forests and shrubs. One of the larger populated islets, ‘Koth Duwa’, houses a Buddhist Temple that dates back to the days of the oldest kings of the country. Meanwhile two other islets bear the history of the country by have been the refuges to two different kings, King Dhathusena and King Mugalan.
And also you can get experience with fish therapy (foot massage). A motivating thing to be visited of the area is the Open-Air Fish Massage. The fish massage is quite popular all over the world, mainly in East Asian countries. The unique factor about this massage is that the fish are held in their natural surroundings, the river. A large space is sectioned off by nets tied between poles; restricting the fish from leaving that area. Other than that, they are free to move around. The client simply sits on a pier and dips his or her feet into the water.
After Breakfast you can leisure at Bentota Beach.
The Bentota Beach which extends across 7-8 kilometers is truly a symbol of peace, calmness and freshness. It is a trendy place for those who find irresistible water sports as the beach is famous for its bumpy waves, perfect for water skiin and wind surfing. If you are like to spend your holidays and give yourself a quiet and natural care for, with no bars and restaurants, this is the most refreshing and relaxing spot. One of its strongest points is its hushed environs which according to many communities run the natural and relaxing environment of the beach. There is plenty of space of everyone to settle in rightly and enjoy the sun bath to the fullest. Bentota beach is also pretty popular for scuba, surfing, snorkeling, Diving, jet skiing, slow boat, speed boat, banana ride, wave surfing, and also wind surfing are just a few ways in which the town keeps its visitors engrossed. Based on the views generated by the tourist who have visited this beach, if you want to take pleasure in an absolutely warm and quiet holidays then it are a perfect place for you.
After Breakfast have a Colombo City tour and shopping.
In the afternoon, do city tour of Colombo. Colombo is the commercial and business center of Sri Lanka located on west coast. The city blends together with old colonial type building, high-rise commercial buildings and hotels. It is filled with shopping malls. Some of the finest structures built during the colonial times still preserved in one part of the City. For example, there is a 100-year-old clock tower, and the Bandaranaike Memorial International Conference Hall (BMICH) which was a gift to Sri Lanka from the People’s Republic of China.
Welcome the guests at the Airport by a Representative of Aliyah Tours
All Local Transfers and Sightseeing by an air-conditioned vehicle throughout the tour
Entrance Fees for Sights Visited
Visit according to the program
One litter water bottle per day
Highway Tolls
All Local Taxes
Air tickets and insurance
Immunizations / Medical
Meals and accommodation
Video camera permits
Vehicle use for night life activities
Porter rage & Tips
Cost of beverage throughout the tour
Expenses of a personal nature
Any other services not specified above
Client should pay 50% of tour amount at the arrival and the rest can be paid during the tour or at the Airport where you’re ready for the departure.
You should provide accommodation and meals for the driver.
Cancellations within 01 to 06 days of the arrival date – 100% of the value of the booking
Cancellations within 07 to 13 days of the arrival date – 50% of the value of the booking
Cancellations within 14 to 28 days of the arrival date – 25% of the value of the booking
Cancellations beyond 30 days of the arrival date – not charge