EXPLORE SRI LANKA - 27

Galle – Bundala – Haputale – Ella – Mathale – Kandy – Negombo (7Days/6Nights)

Day 01 – Arrival at Colombo airport – Kosgoda

Stop 01

Kosgoda sea Turtle Conservation Project

The Kosgoda Sea Turtle Conservation Project was started by Dudley Perera in the year 1981. The main aim of the project is to conserve the sea turtles and protect them from predators like birds, dogs, and crabs. It is one of the 18 hatcheries in Sri Lanka devoted to the proper breeding of this endangered species. Visitors can get to see up to five endangered species out of seven species of margin turtles in the world here. The place is especially suitable for kids but provides to be a once in a lifetime experience for all.

The volunteers patrol the beach at night to make sure that any mother turtles have proper conditions to lay eggs. They also carry the eggs back to the hatchery to make sure they hatch properly without any harm from predators and then release the baby sea turtles back into the ocean once properly hatched. They also take care of sea turtles with disabilities and treat the ones who have become weak due to fishing activities.

Tourists will be guided throughout the process of protecting and proper hatching of the sea turtles while visiting the hatchery. One can also visit the hatchery in the evening when the baby turtles are released into the sea as the risk for predators is minimum at this time and get the opportunity to release their baby sea turtle into the sea.

Stop 02

Ariya Pala Masks Museum

A modern-built traditional museum with a splendid collection of traditional masks and other related artic crafts is the main attraction that awaits you at Ariya Pala Masks Museum. Here nearly 120 unique masks used in the traditional dance rituals and religious festivals are displays on show and there would be English speaking staff explaining the procedure and culture to you. The Museum has a retail store, workshop, and library inside where you have books and pamphlets to delve deep into their strange tradition.

Stop 03

Madu Gaga Boat Tour

The Madu River area surrounding the river are all swampy marshlands covered in mangrove forests. The forest covers over 61 hectares, that is over 150 acres. 14 of the 24 species of mangroves are found in this area. Over 300 species, 19 of which are endemic, have been discovered so far. The largest animal in the region is the wild boar. There are other smaller animals such as monkeys, a variety of squirrels, etc. When it comes to birds, cormorants and kingfishers are a common sight. For avid bird watchers, the mangrove forests are a dream coming true. There are over 111 bird species identified to inhabit the region. There are 31 types of reptiles, namely snakes, lizards, and crocodiles. There are also over 50 kinds of butterflies and 25 kinds of mollusks found in the Madu River zone.

Madu Gaga Fish Therapy

Madu ganga boat tours provides you natural foot massage from hundreds of fish. The Madu Ganaganga boat rides are popular among local and foreign visitors to the area. This ride gives you several memorable experiences and this natural fish therapy is one of them.There are several fish spas located in within Balapitiya, Madu Ganga areas. They setup several artificial cage ponds in the natural river the doctor fish are grown there. You can get in to the floating stage from your boat and sit and put your legs in to the pond. Hundreds of Fish comes and gently nibble the dead skin of your legs. They provide fish food also. Once you feed them, hundreds of them comes and fight for it. The setup contains several ponds, they can support visitors from several boats also. There are different types of doctor fish available there to choose from. Visitors who are going for Maduganga boat ride, should never missed this opportunity of getting tingling massage from fish.

Stay Night in Kosgoda

Day 02 – Galle

Stop 01

Galle Dutch Fort

The story of the Galle Dutch Fort; a UNESCO World Heritage Site reverberates through all traveler’s photos and captions. Initially built by the Portuguese in the 16th century during their conquests, the fort was later fortified and conquered by the Dutch in the 17th century, until it later fell to the might of the British. The old town of Galle was once used as a trading port for spices and other goods for over 200 years. However, today, the fort has been transformed into a place of history, romance and beauty where travelers are warmly welcomed to dive head first into the exotic stories and be a part of this heritage site.

Stop 02

Natural Pool Thalpe

Thalpe Beach is an interesting and fantasying place in Sri Lanka which can be impression of our Hearts on freedom. Thalpe Beach is a situated in the Southern Province of Sri Lanka that is closed to the city of Galle. It is a popular destination among both locals and foreigners. There are vibrant shops, restaurants and various water sports related accomplishments to do in the nearby area of Thalpe. Thalpe is quiet town nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the major towns situated in the southern coastal belt. Thalpe town is occupied with history, adventure, culture and cuisine along with the Thalpe Beach which is a rather clean and calm beach. Stilt fishermen are commonly seen in this coastline town and it is a great way to learn more about the way of life in this attractive coastal town. According to the villagers the rock pools were cut out of the corals around 50 years ago and it was used to soak coconut husks in order to separate the coconut coir. Rock pool Beach best time to visit is early morning from March to April. At other times the pools are filled with sand. From Galle travel along the Matara Road for approximately 11.2km to reach Thalpe where is the Thalpe Beach is situated. Nowadays, Thalpe Beach is one of the most attractive places for travelling and enjoying through the swimming. Most of the Visitors travel this place after the travelling Galle fort. Thalpe Beach is the only one place which is in Sri Lankan travelling like this place. Therefore, many Tourists prefer to enjoy with this rock pools. If you visit this beach, you can get lot of wow feeling and amazing more than more. Thalpe Beach has a specific experience and humorous things. However, Thalpe Beach is very attractive water color and the sand. It makes very uncommon look which is given comparable environment other than Beach areas. Further, Thalpe Area is very impression view for travelling because it makes lots of freedom, amazing, happy and full of joy. Thus, Thalpe Beach is the one of most attractive places which is you visited definitely. And also, we have a responsibility to safeguard these natural places in our best and kind to keep it in your mind. Thalpe Beach has many sea animals which are sometimes affect to your skin. All visitors are kind to not interrupt them. And also, all visitors should be kind to protect this place and clean the surrounding of Thalpe Beach area. Some People are throwing plastic bottles, polythene and etc. That is harm to the sea animals and other global accomplishments. Let’s protect these natural travelling places of Sri Lanka.

Stop 03

Mirissa Beach

Some of the major attractions in Mirissa are whale watching. The fantastic place of Mirissa is also known for its tune, mullet, butterfish, snapper, and being the largest fishing port on the South Coast. Great beach! Tides don't affect the water level too much; the waves are not too strong - you can still swim and body board. There are bars on the beach and nice cafes with fresh seafood at 6pm every evening. If you walk to the left over the giant rocks you can get to a scenic hill covered with mangrove trees and palms.

Stay Night in Mirissa Beach Side

Day 03 – Bundala

Stop 01

Bundala National Park

Bundala National Park is situated in the southern province of Sri Lanka, about 245km from Colombo. Bundala national park is a perfect trip for bird watchers & nature lovers. It harbors 197 bird species and is declared both a Ramsar wetland site and a UNESCO biosphere reserve with diverse wildlife. Bundala is located in a low country dry zone climate area which results in a tropical monsoonal climate. It contains five shallow brackish lagoons of which three contains salt pans used for salt production.

The ecosystems of Bundala contain seven terrestrial habitat types and six wetland types. It boasts of 383 plant species belonging to 90 families, dominated by dry thorny shrubs, acacia and herb species. The lagoons are dominated by blue-green algae, Hydrilla and water lilies. The sand dunes east of the Bundala village is also a must-see due to its strip of unique Palu (Manilkara hexandra) trees. Bundala is identified as an important bird area (IBA) with a recorded 324 species of vertebrates and 52 species of invertebrates. This includes 197 species of birds, 48 species of reptiles, 32 species of fish 32 species of mammals and 15 species of amphibians. Bundala National Park Safari is very much popular among both local & overseas visitors due to complex array of animals. Also, Bundala is an ideal hot spot for bird watching enthusiast worldwide.

Generally, Bundala National Park temperature is bit high (average Temperature is 27C, the annual rainfall varies between 900 MM to 1300 MM. Dry season’ falls between May and September. Best time to visit is September to March: during this period migratory birds arrive at the park. Out of 197 bird species, 100 are water birds and 58 are migratory. The highlights of the migratory birds are the Greater flamingo, waterfowl and cormorants. This rich biodiversity of birds has led to a national bird ringing program. Not only birds, but Bundala is also the home to various animals such as the Asian elephant, different types of macaques and langurs, jackals, leopards, wild boars, porcupines and deers. The brackish water in the Bundala lagoons is the home to different species of fishes and amphibians, with two species being endemic. The seashore of Bundala Park provides breeding grounds for all five species of globally endangered sea turtles.

Stop 02

Sithulpawwa Buddhist Monastery

Sithulpawwa Rock Temple is situated in the Hambanthota district in Sri Lanka. In the historical records, it is also named Chinththala Pabbatha. It is situated in the dense forest in Yala National Park and has a height of about 400 feet. Sithulpawwa Rock Temple has a history that dates back to 2000 BC. Its name is derived from the word “Chittalapabbata”. The meaning of this word is that it is “the hill of the quiet mind” in English. This is a place where thousands of Arhaths lived at that time. There is also a historical record which states that once there was a monk named Tissa who had reached the state of Arhath thus it is believed that Sithulpawwa Rock Temple was built encasing his remains such that it is also named as “Tissa Thera Chetiya”. You have to climb a very steep stairway which is cut through a rock. When you go up you will be able to see a Dagoba which is said to have been built by King Kawantissa. In addition to this, there are more other small stupas. There is a specific cave temple that consists of beautiful ancient paintings that are believed to belong to the 3rd century BC. The drawings are done on a thin layer of plaster and have used red and yellow colors. It is stated that the rock temple which is a very sophisticated cave consisted of 12000 monks who attained the highest level in mind according to Buddhism.

Moving to Haputale & Stay Night in there

Day 04 – Haputhale

Stop 01

Adisham Bungalow

The Adisham Bungalow was once the country house of Sir Thomas Lester Villiers, but today it houses the Adisham Monastery of the St. Benedict. Found just 3km away from Haputale town, the Adisham Bungalow is one of the most picturesque corners in the region. Constructed in 1931, the house was designed in the Tudor style and fashioned after the Leeds Castle in Kent- Sir Thomas Villiers even named it after the village he was born in and has all the trappings of what you would imagine an English mansion would have. The Bungalow has an impressive library which is filled from floor to ceiling with old dusty volumes that the planter held dear. Access to the whole house is limited and visitors are only allowed to see the library and living room, but there is an adjoining guest house where people are more than welcomed to stay. Sir Thomas Villiers spared no expense when it came to his home, but what’s even more splendid than the actual house is its surroundings. Adisham Bungalow is perched on the edge of a cliff which is flanked by a larger outcrop fringed with tall pine trees, which somehow dwarf the house. The country home also has a wonderful view of the Uva valley, as well as a beautiful garden and orchard that you can stroll through. Forming part of the main building, pop into the little kiosk selling a variety of fresh items from homemade jams to pickles and coffee liqueurs. Whether you’re taking an edible souvenir back home or need a refreshing juice, the kiosk makes organic, local products that taste great!

Stop 02

Rawana Falle

Rawana Cave

Nine Arches Bridge

Stay Night in Ella

Day 05 – Mathale

Stop 01

Riverston View Point

Riverston is another peak in the Knuckles Mountain range situated in Matale, Central Province of Sri Lanka. The Riverston peak has an elevation of 1,424 meters, and Riverston is a famous mountain for hiking, although not much known among foreigners. This mountain has many best views, and the mountain is located close to Pitawala pathana Mini World’s End. Compared to other mountain peaks in the Knuckles Mountain Range, the weather conditions of Riverston is well manageable as the climate is usually not very cool as this mountain is much closer to the dry zone of Knuckles. But in the rainy season & cold months, the wind speed and mist will cover the whole area and suddenly turn into a very cold place. Especially in the Riverstone gap, in particular, is an area with lots of gusty winds, and you feel like you being carried away. The hike to the summit would be about 2 km long. The trail path leading to the summit is usually windy. To get the whole experience, you need to climb the Riverstone SLT Tower Mountain. This is where everyone goes to feel the ‘breeze’. The climb is a paved road, so you don’t need hiking gear or even hiking shoes. You can walk even with slippers. If your fit, it will take only ab 15-20 minutes. If not, still only about 30-45 minutes maximum. There are some shortcuts through the forest as well, but we recommend going on pave road.

Tips

• There is a car park at the bottom where you start the hike, and you can park your vehicle there.

• Avoid Public holidays because the area is fully packed with locals and you can’t enjoy the view.

• There are 2,3 small shops to buy sweaters and snacks on weekends and long holidays.

• Kids Friendly Hike

Stop 02

Sera Ella Waterfall

The beautiful Sera Ella falls, which has been a rich source for poetry in the past is situated in Dumbara jungle in Matale, Sri Lanka. The fall is 10 meters high and falls in two sections. The fall is formed by the waters of Thelgamu Oya. To form this waterfall, water from Kitul Canal, from the Kaudagammana Mountain and Hunumadala River join Puwakpitiya River, which later joins Thelgamu Oya. Thelgamu Oya creates several waterfalls in Dumbara valley and Sera Ella is the most magnificent one out of all. Situated in Pothatawela village, Illukkumbura in Matale, the waterfall is at its’ best most parts of the year. The waterfall gets its unique name because of a species of fish that inhabit the area, namely “Sera”. The best season to see the waterfall is when the fall is at its maximum, which is between November and March. It is believed that there is a hidden treasure behind the curtain of the waterfall. The beauty of Sera Ella is that there is a stunning cave behind the waterfall, and you can reach it even when the waterfall is at its full form when the waters keep gushing down fast. Some rocks are cut with steps to reach the fall. These tend to be slippery and one must be very careful when climbing them down. The base pool of the fall is deep and bathing in the waterfall is not advisable when the water level is high. There is a hidden treasure behind the curtain of the waterfall. The secret of Sera Ella is that there is a stunning cave behind the waterfall. You can reach it even when the waterfall is at its full form when the waters keep gushing down fast enough. Some rocks are cut with steps to reach the fall. These tend to be slippery so be very careful when you are climbing them. It is quite a good place for bathing and swimming also to spend a family vacation with your loved ones.

Stop 03

Bambarakiri Ella Falle

This magnificent waterfall is situated close to Rattota town in Matale District. Take Matale – Ilukumbura road to the Bamarakiri Falls bend, which is 1km past Rattota town, where the fall is to be found. The Bambarakiri Falls is 18km from Matale town. The Bambarakiri Falls is located approximately 40km away from our Amaya Hunas Falls, one of the most popular honeymoon hotels in Sri Lanka.

The fall is set amidst the mesmerizing greenery of the Knuckles Mountain range. Bambarakiri Ella is a fall of 10m. The fall can be viewed in three parts. Different varieties of butterflies and birds come to the area of the falls mostly in clear mornings making the view even more charming.

A very old-fashioned suspension bridge extends over the falls adding an enchanting touch to the already beautiful scene.

Gallons of water come crashing down to earth at a high speed. The rock pool at the base of the waterfall is safe for a dip during the dry summer, but can be very dangerous during heavy rainy season.

For those who yearn for more adventure, there is a steep slippery climb of 5km, to reach the top of the waterfall. But one should bear in mind that a slight mistake will result in grave injury.

Although the climb is not easy and should be done with care, the views of the landscape from the top are breathtaking. In addition, there is a wonderful bonus for those that make the effort of the climb – a cool and crystal-clear natural rock pool perfect for bathing.

This tranquil and peaceful place is indeed a hidden gem in Matale. Visitors who come to the areas in Matale for holidays are strongly recommended to visit this beautiful place.

Stay Night in Riverstone Camping site

Day 06 – Matale

Stop 01

Sembuwatta Lake

Sambuwatta Lake is a beautiful man-made reservoir located in Elkaduwa, Matale. The lake is bordered by Cambell’s Land Forest reserve and situated at an elevation of 1,140 m. The misty and chilly atmosphere with pine trees and tea-covered slopes surrounding the lake make visitors feel relaxed and tranquil. What puts the lake in the top as a leisure and family travel destination is the plethora of adventure activities available such as zip-lining, swan/motor boat riding, canoeing and hiking. Bathing and swimming in the lake, however, is not allowed since the lake is fairly deep (30 – 40 ft), there is a separate pool built for that purpose. The road leading to the lake (Sembuwatte Lake Road) off Wattegama – Elkaduwa – Matale road (B461) is not in a favorable condition, especially the stretch that lies beyond the factory. This narrow and winding road stretches about 04 km from the main road to the lake. About 03 km in, there is a dilapidated tea factory (Elakduwa Tea Factory) and a small office, where you should stop to buy tickets. Long vehicles like 54 seat Leyland buses/Coaches should be parked here. Small vehicles can safely be driven beyond this point up to the lake and park at the lake premises. Owing to the narrowness of the road, it can be heavily congested during holidays. Tuk-tuk drivers at the turning points try to dissuade people from getting their vehicles on to the lake road so that they can earn their buck. You should hear none of this since all sorts of vehicles travel upon this road daily.

Stop 02

Aluviharaya, Mathale

The Aluvihare Rock Temple (also called Matale Alu Viharaya) is a sacred Buddhist temple located in Aluvihare, Matale District of Sri Lanka. Surrounded by hills, the Aluvihara cave temple is situated 30 km north of Kandy on the Matale-Dambulla road. The history of Aluvihare Rock Temple is traced back to the 3rd Century B.C to the reign of King Devanampiyatissa. It is believed that the King built the dagoba, planted the Bo sapling and founded the temple after the introduction of Buddhism to the country during his reign. Aluvihare Rock Temple was the historic location where the P? li Canon was first written down completely in text on ola (Palm) leaves. Many monastery caves, some of which exhibit frescoes are situated near this temple.

Stop 03

National Spice Garden Mathale

A delightful place to stroll in fragrant greenery and learn about nutmeg, pepper vines, clove trees and curry, cinnamon and the precious cardamom, a relative of ginger. It grows in the shade of high jungle trees and can only be harvested by hand. Visitors may buy spices, traditional remedies and cosmetics, taste a herbal brew and in some venues, enjoy the full flavors of Sri Lankan spices over lunch or an Ayurveda massage based on natural products from the garden.

Stay Night in Mathale

Day 07 – Kandy

Stop 01

Tooth Relic Temple

Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha (Sri Dalada Maligawa), which houses the most important Relic of the Buddhists in Sri Lanka. A gold canopy was erected some years ago over the roof of the shrine room where it is placed.

After the parinirvana of Gautama Buddha, the tooth relic was preserved in Kalinga and smuggled to the island by Princess Hemamali and her husband, Prince Dantha on the instructions of her father King Guasave.

Stop 02

Kandy Mount View

Kandy Lake

Stop 03

Elephant Orphanage in Pinnawala

En-route visit the Elephant Orphanage at Pinnawela.The orphanage was created to protect abandoned and orphaned elephants. It has now grown into the most popular elephant attraction in the country and with good reason, for nowhere else except at Pageants (processions) are you likely to see so many elephants at close quarters. The elephants are controlled by their mahouts (keepers) who ensure they are fed at the right times and don’t endanger anyone but otherwise the elephants roam freely around the sanctuary area.

There are many elephants in residence from babies to young adults. Among the attractions, you will be able to witness elephants being led to a nearby river for bathing. You could also see the feeding of the baby elephants which is the highlight of the visit.

Bathing at river – 10.00am – 12.00pm

02.00pm – 4.00pm

Fruit Feeding - 9.00am – 9.45am

12.00p.m – 1.45pm

Stop 04

Colombo City Tour

Departure

Transfer to Airport for departure flight.

Tour Includes

• Accommodation on sharing a double/twin/triple room at the hotels specified in hotel collection.

• Include Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

• Transport in a Private Vehicle, inclusive of all Chauffeur accommodation, cost of fuel, parking & highway tolls.

• Private Transport with airport transfers in an Air-Conditioned Vehicle throughout the tour

• Service of an English-Speaking Chauffeur Guide.

Tour Excludes

• Entry Visa Fees, please visit www.eta.gov.lk for more details

• International / Domestic Airfare.

• Any expenses of personal nature.

• Tips & Portages.

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