Private Tour to Sri Lanka
prepared for
Mr & Mrs Hill
by
Philip Anderton
22 The Priory Queensway, B4 6BS
 0121 236 1234
Page 2
Detailed itinerary
Page 7
Accommodation summary
Page 9
What’s Included in the Price?
Page 10
Sri Lanka map
Booking Reference No
31-Dec-16
DABH5F-LK02
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 1
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1
Monday 13th March
Welcome to Sri Lanka!
Upon arrival at Colombo’s Bandaranaike International Airport you will be met by your guide for a
private transfer to your hotel in Negombo (15km / approx. 30 mins).
Once a trading port for the Dutch and British, Negombo has developed into a bustling modern
town with a handful of reminders of its colonial past. Situated close to the international airport, it
makes a convenient rest stop before heading inland to explore or before an onward flight.
The wide golden sand beach is dotted with fishing boats and the inland resort road offers a
selection of bars and restaurants.
Overnight Jetwing Beach (Deluxe Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – None
Day 2
Tuesday 14th March
This morning you will leave your hotel after breakfast and drive to the ‘Cultural Triangle’ (175 km
/ approx. 6 hrs). Please note that this approximate journey time takes into consideration road
works currently affecting the main route between Colombo and the Cultural Triangle. Your
driver/guide will be updated on the current conditions and will take the best route for your route
and day of travel.
Commonly referred to as the ‘Cultural Triangle’, the central plains area boasts ruined temples and
ancient cities combined with national parks and glistening reservoirs. UNESCO World Heritage
Sites include the striking rock fortress of Sigiriya, Dambulla’s Royal Rock Temple and crumbling
archaeological treasures of Polonnaruwa. The stunning setting and historic interest means a stay in
this region is sure to be a highlight of any trip to Sri Lanka.
Overnight Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Superior Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 2
Day 3
Wednesday 15th March
After breakfast drive to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Polonnaruwa (46km / approx. 1.5
hrs).
The second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms, Polonnaruwa was first declared the capital city
by King Vijayabahu I, who defeated the Chola invaders from southern India in 1070 AD to reunite
the country once more under a local leader.
Over the following three centuries Polonnaruwa became a thriving commercial and religious
centre, reaching its zenith under King Parakramabahu I in the 12th Century. He created beautiful
parks, huge buildings and an enormous tank (reservoir) which acted both as a defensive border
against intruders and as an important water source.
Today the archaeological park contains many well-preserved ruins within a compact area. Start
with a visit to the Polonnaruwa Museum where you can learn about the site in more detail, before
heading out to Gal Viharaya, a Buddhist shrine where four statues of Lord Buddha are carved out
of the rock.
Other stops include the site of Nissanka Latha Mandapaya which boasts well-preserved stone
columns, the impressive Lankathilaka Temple and the ruined stone walls of the Royal Palace.
After your visit to Polonnaruwa return to your hotel and the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Superior Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 3
Day 4
Thursday 16th March
Set off this morning for Sigiriya, also known as the ‘Lion Rock’ (25km / approx. 45 mins).
This UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of Sri Lanka’s major attractions. A spectacular pillar of
rock visible from miles around, geologically Sigiriya is a hardened magma plug of an extinct
volcano. Historically, the origins of the remains are disputed and it is thought to have been either a
royal fortress built under the reign of King Kashyapa (477 - 495 AD) or a Buddhist monastery.
You might like to start your visit at the Sigiriya Museum to learn more about the site, before
wandering through the vast landscaped gardens to the base of the rock. The walk to the top is
steep with many steps and there are some sections where the path or staircase is very narrow with
steep drops protected by fences. We do not recommend this for those without a head for heights
or the less mobile. The hike up and down again will take 1.5 to 2.5 hours depending on your
fitness.
You will pass beautiful frescoes and a sheer ‘mirror wall’ before arriving at the massive stone lion’s
paws, which lend the rock its nickname ‘Lion Rock’. The old stairway to the top led through the
mouth of a crouching lion but today only the huge paws remain giving an indication of the
massive proportions of the head. The summit, covering an area of 1.6 hectares, was originally
completely covered by buildings, but only remains of the royal citadel can be seen today.
Later in the afternoon you will drive to Minneriya National Park for a 2-3 hour jeep safari (20km /
approx. 45 mins). Dominated by the ancient Minneriya Tank, which was built in the 3rd Century
AD by King Mahasena, the plains and forests of this park are home to herds of elephants who
come to graze and to bathe in the tank’s waters. Flocks of cormorants and painted storks, toque
macaque and sambar deer may also be spotted. Depending on the movement of the elephants
you may visit the nearby Kaudulla National Park or Eco Park instead.
Overnight Cinnamon Lodge Habarana (Superior Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 4
Day 5
Friday 17th March
Today you will drive towards Kandy with a stop to visit the Dambulla cave temples en route
(105km / approx. 3 - 3.5 hrs).
The Dambulla cave temples are another UNESCO World Heritage Site which date back to the 1st
Century BC. This amazing complex of five caves was first used as a refuge by an ancient king who
upon regaining his throne commissioned magnificent images to be carved from the rock. Later
kings made further improvements and the caves now contain over 150 images of the Buddha
painted upon the walls.
The hike up to the caves is short but steep (approx. 15-40 mins depending on route taken). At the
top you can explore the caves and enjoy spectacular far-reaching views over the surrounding
countryside.
Continue the drive to Kandy. You might like to stop en route at one of Matale's spice gardens,
where you will be taken through the gardens to learn more about the spices of Sri Lanka. Your visit
ends at the spice shop where purchasing of spices is at your discretion. Please discuss with your
guide should you wish to pay a visit to a spice garden. You will arrive in Kandy in the afternoon.
Sri Lanka’s second largest city, Kandy was the capital of the last Sinhalese Kingdom and enjoys a
scenic setting around a lake surrounded by green hills. Home to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth
Relic, said to house Buddha’s tooth, each August the city also hosts the spectacular Perahera
festival featuring dancers, firebreathers and lavishly decorated elephants.
Late afternoon you will head to a local hall to watch a show of traditional Sri Lankan music, dance
and drumming. Afterwards you’ll visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, known locally as Sri
Dalada Maligawa, the most sacred temple in the whole of Sri Lanka. This important shrine boasts
intricate carvings and beautiful Sri Lankan art. During the evening ‘puja’ throngs of pilgrims visit
the temple to line up to glimpse the golden casket said to hold the sacred relic and to make
offerings of flowers.
Overnight Earls Regency Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 5
Day 6
Saturday 18th March
After breakfast enjoy a tour of Kandy, including a walk by the lake, a visit to the bustling local
market and a stop at the British Garrison Cemetery, which from 1822-1873 was the final resting
place for resident British nationals. Continue to the Ceylon Tea Museum (closed Mondays & Poya
days) located just outside the town within the old Hathane Tea Factory, where you can learn more
about the history of tea growing in this region.
Later head to the beautiful Peradeniya Botanic Gardens (10km / approx. 45 mins) to enjoy a
leisurely stroll among the orchids and royal palms.
Surrounded on three sides by the Mahaweli river, these botanical gardens were founded in 1824
and are still home to one of world’s largest collections of plants and trees. Giant ficus trees, palms,
an orchid house and a vast array of trees such as ebony, teak, satinwood, mahogany and
tamarind can be seen here.
Overnight Earls Regency Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
Day 7
Sunday 19th March
Today you will drive through the hill country to Nuwara Eliya (115km / approx. 3.5 hrs).
En route you will stop at a tea factory and tea plantation where you will have the opportunity to
learn more about the tea making process and the different grades of tea.
Located in the heart of Sri Lanka’s tea country at an elevation of 1900m, Nuwara Eliya was a
favoured retreat of the British in the19th Century thanks to its cool climate. With an abundance of
red and green roofed plantation bungalows, English country style homes, a fine 18 hole golf
course and a racecourse, the town still has a decidedly British feel. The surrounding mountain
slopes and valleys are carpeted with lush green tea plantations, interspersed with gushing streams
and tumbling waterfalls.
Take a walk around the town centre, passing the Victorian post office, the old Hill Club and golf
course before a stop at Holy Trinity Church, a quaint building constructed by the British in the mid
19th Century. Continue to your hotel, where the rest of the day is at leisure.
Overnight Grand Hotel (Deluxe Room)
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
Day 8
Monday 20th March
This morning you will leave your hotel and drive past picturesque scenery on the way back to the
coast where you will be dropped off at your beach hotel, the AVANI Kalutara (190km / approx.
5 - 6 hrs).
Today’s meal inclusions – Breakfast
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 6
Details of Your Accommodation
Jetwing Beach
Negombo
(4*)
Set on a beautiful sandy beach in Negombo only 20 minutes from the airport, this stylishly minimal hotel is
ideal for a relaxing stay. The fantastic stretch of sand is perfect for a spot of sunbathing or an energetic
game of volleyball. There are 2 pools and the spa offers a range of pampering treatments. In addition to a
lovely bar and beachside café, 2 restaurants offer delicious international cuisine and local seafood. Deluxe
Rooms are simply furnished and feature a balcony or terrace with ocean and sunset views while Suites
boast a separate living area and a deck equipped with sun beds and a Jacuzzi.
Cinnamon Lodge Habarana
(4*)
Habarana
Situated at the heart of the Cultural Triangle within easy driving distance of Sigiriya, Dambulla and
Polonnaruwa, this charming property boasts a lovely natural setting. Low rise chalet style buildings are set
amongst 27 acres of gardens by Lake Habarana which are home to a variety of birdlife and monkeys.
Facilities include a beautiful outdoor pool, tennis and badminton courts and a spa. The open air main
restaurant and bar overlook the pool area, and 2 other dining options are also available. Superior Rooms
have a classic style with colonial touches and shower only, while Deluxe Rooms have both shower and
bath and a balcony or terrace.
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 7
Earl’s Regency Hotel
(4*)
Kandy
This elegant property is located in the hills overlooking the Mahaweli River approximately 30 minutes drive
from the centre of Kandy. A wide range of facilities is available including a pool with children’s pool, a
spa, tennis and badminton courts and a small gym. The hotel features a lounge bar, a main buffet
restaurant and an Indian fine dining restaurant. The spacious Deluxe Rooms are traditionally furnished with
a balcony overlooking the lush mountain scenery and the Mahaweli River, while Luxury Rooms are more
modern in style.
Grand Hotel
Nuwara Eliya
(3+*)
Built in 1891, this grand old hotel is located a short walk from the centre of Nuwara Eliya and exudes
traditional colonial charm. Enjoy a round of golf on the hotel’s course next door or a game of billiards in
the Billiard Room. Alternatively relax with high tea on the lawn or a brandy beside the roaring fire in the
lounge bar. Three restaurants offer a choice of dining options: from a buffet selection in the grand main
hall, to light meals in the coffee shop and authentic Thai cuisine. Rooms are traditionally furnished with
simple bathrooms and views towards the town or gardens.
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 8
What’s Included in the Price?
•
Meet and greet by our local representative and private transfers to and from the airport (unless
specified otherwise).
•
Your accommodation in a double room with any meal inclusions as specified on the itinerary.
•
Transportation and sightseeing using a comfortable air conditioned vehicle on a private basis with
a professional English speaking local driver who is also your guide throughout your tour.
•
Your vehicle, an SUV, will have space for one suitcase and one hand bag per person. If you expect
to travel with more luggage than this please contact your Travel Consultant.
•
Entrance fees for sightseeing as detailed on your itinerary.
•
Applicable local government taxes.
What’s Excluded?
•
Unless shown on your itinerary all meals, snacks and drinks.
•
Optional hotel expenses such as local and international telephone calls, internet access and
laundry.
•
Charges for using cameras and video cameras at monuments.
•
Gratuities at your discretion for local guides, drivers, bellboys, waiters etc (details of suggested
rates for gratuities is provided in our Holiday Essentials document that accompanies your confirmed
itinerary).
•
Local airport taxes. We recommend that you check in advance with your guide if there is a local
departure tax to pay and ensure you have made provision for this prior to arrival at check in.
•
Any visas as indicated in the visa advice section of your main itinerary. The Trailfinders Visa
Service can help you obtain your visa and as a valued client you will be eligible for a discounted
rate. Please call 020 7368 1504 (UK) or 01 881 4949 (Ireland).
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 9
Sri La nka map
31-Dec-16
TRAILFINDERS TAILORMADE TRAVEL WORLDWIDE
Trailfinders Ltd Trading as Trailfinders Registered in England No 1004502
Registered Office 48 Earls Court Road London W8 6FT
Page 10