EXPLORE SRI LANKA - 28

Negombo – Kurunegala – Matale -Kandy – Nuwara Eliya – Ella – Udawalawe – Galle – Hikkaduwa – Rathnapura - Colombo (12Days/11Nights)

Day 01 – Arrival at Colombo airport – Negombo

Stop 01

Negombo Fish Market

Visitors that walk the shores of Negombo beach can witness the day’s catch being laid out on enormous mats made of coconut fibre. Using an age-old method of open-air drying, the fishermen use the heat of the sun to remove all moisture from the fish and extend their shelf life. It will then get salted before being shipped to all over the island and sold in stores; dried fish is a very common inclusion of Sri Lankan cuisine.

Adjacent to the shores of drying fish, the wet market is where fresh seafood can be bought. Ranging from of offers of tuna, mackerel, squid, sardines and shark, the market is said to be closed on Sundays when the city’s predominantly Catholic population heads to church. However, some Muslim fishermen still operate on Sunday (their religious day of the week being Friday), so it is still possible to witness the fishing community in action.

While some of the fish for sale at the market are brought in fresh, others have been brought in from larger wholesalers in the morning to be sold here. The best fish are sold to local hotels and restaurants before being relegated to either the marketplace or to being dried under the sun on the beach.

Stop 02

Boat ride on the Hamilton Canal

Take a day trip from Colombo or Negombo in the Hamilton canal and majestic Maha Oya to experience a tropical countryside boat trip to witness the riverine village life of fishermen, a Bamboo Forest, and birds.

Follow the historic route of the spice traders along the Hamilton canal and then cruise upstream on this spectacular Maha Oya River to experience a tropical countryside boat trip and witness the riverine village life of fishermen, a Bamboo Forest, and birds. We can stop at a sandy beach for a swim in the fresh water. Optionally we can call in to one of the river or beach resort restaurants along the way for a chilled Beer or two with lunch.

This is approximately 3 hours boat trip and if you wish to stop for lunch, it will be approximately 4 hours boat trip. If the Sea conditions are right, we could make the return trip by Sea.

Stay Night in Negombo

Day 02 – Kurunegala – Matale

Stop 01

Dolukanda in Kurunegala

Dolukanda is a well-known mountain range due to the Dolukanda Raja Maha Viharaya (Dolukanda Buddhist Temple) and it is believed that the mountain is directly linked to the great Indian epic, Ramayana Trail in Sri Lanka . In Ramayana story this mountain declared as Dolukada Sanjeewani mountain. This is one of the five Sanjeevani drops in Sri Lanka which located in Kurunegala District. This is one of the popular Ramayana sites of Sri Lanka, where it is believed that the parts of Himalaya Mountain have been felt while it was carried to Sri Lanka by Hanuman. Sanjeewani in Hindu mythology is a magical herb with super natural powers which of them considered be growing at dark and believing to cure any disease. This mountain or important site of Ramayana tour in Sri Lanka is situated in Hiripitiya village which is located about 20 KM north of the district capital of Kurunegala.

Legend of Dolukanda Sanjeewani Mountain

According to the Ramayana trail Sri Lanka, both Lord Rama and Lakshman were seriously injured and wounded by powerful arrows and fell unconscious during the war with Ravana’s army. So, Lord Hanuman was instructed by Sugriva to fetch lifesaving herbs which only grew in Himalayas. It is stated that as he was unable to identify that lifesaving herb himself alone, Hanuman carried out the whole Himalayan Mountain range to Sri Lanka. Then it is believed that parts from Himalayas fell on five places in Sri Lanka and those five places declared as “Sanjeevani drops” in Sri Lanka namely Dolukanda Sanjeewani mountain is one of those places which is now considered as one Ramayana tour places in Sri Lanka

Moving to Matale

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.

Stay Night in Matale

Day 03 – Matale

Stop 01

Sri Muthumari Amman Kovil Matale

Muthumariamman Temple or Arulmigu Sri Muthumari Amman Kovil is a Hindu temple in Matale, Sri Lanka.

The prefix “Muthu”, literally means “pearl”. "Mari" means rain and "Amman" means mother in Tamil language. The temple is dedicated to Mariamman, the goddess of rain and fertility.

The land was originally part of a paddy field and was gifted by the owner in 1852. The current temple was built in 1874, funded by the Nattukkottai Chettiar. This temple is used by both Hindus and Buddhists. The temple was originally a small statue under a tree prayed to by the Hindu people but has been developed by the people in Matale.

The temple was severely damaged during the anti-Tamil riots in July 1983 but has been subsequently restored. One of the most visually dominant features of this temple is its 32.9 m (108 ft) high Gopuram ('Raja Koburum'), a large decorated tower located above the main northern gateway ('Vadakku Vaayil') to the temple. The Raja Koburum is one of the largest Gopurams in Sri Lanka. The 1008 statues of Hindu deities are the work of South Indian sculptor, Nagalingam and his son Ramanathan, with the help of about 100 designers, painters and architects from Tamil Nadu and Sri Lanka. The Raja Koburum was completed in 2007 at the cost of approximately Rs 150M.

Special events

The main religious festivals including the chariot festival at the temple are celebrated during February or March.

The temple has five ornate chariots, which are used to convey statues of Hindu deities around the city on 'Ther' or 'Vettai Thiruvizha', the chariot ceremony day, which is held the day before 'Medin Poya' (the Poya day in March).

Stop 02

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 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 Mathale

Day 04 – Riverton – Kandy

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 are 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

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 03

Kandy Mount View

Kandy Lake

Culture Show

The Kandy Lake Club Cultural Dance Show is a stimulating Sri Lankan Arts, Dance and Cultural Heritage Show that is a must see for any visitor who visits the historic city of Kandy. The Kandy Lake Club Dance started in 1982 with the view of having a cultural dance performance bringing together all Sri Lankan dance types to one platform. It is the first Cultural Dance Show of its kind to be established in Sri Lanka. It has since become a tourist attraction for many people visiting the country and keen on a glimpse of its rich cultural heritage. Hence it has been performing continuously for the last 35 years. During the show, you will see several dances which depict the graceful movements of birds and animals, which trace their origins back to the ancient ritual known as the Kohomba Kapkariya, as well as energetic acrobatic performances where the men perform a series of leaping pirouettes and stunts such as plate-spinning and the dramatic ‘fire walk’ which ends the show.

Stay Night in Kandy

Day 05 – Nuwara Eliya

Stop 01

Moon Plaines

The main attraction of Moon Plains is the mini–Worlds End at the edge giving a 360 Degree view of the surrounding peaks and towns. It is a Wide-open area with the chances of seeing wild boars, cows, buffaloes, deer and also a total of 105 bird species are recorded in the area of which 16 are endemic to Sri Lanka. Nine mountains of Sri Lanka can be clearly seen from the top of the Moon Plaines

Stop 02

Victoria Park

The Queen Victoria Park is situated in middle of the Nuwara Eliya City and It’s one of the must visit destination. This park was named to honor the 60th Jubilee Coronation of Queen Victoria in the year 1897. Originally the park was the research field of Hakala Botanical Garden. It contains a lot of colorful flowers, and very nice places to enjoy and relax. It also contains a playing area for kids, and a train tour for adults too. This place is famous for bird watching and there are large verities of plants and trees available. Victoria Park come alive with the flowers specially around March to May, and August to September. You can see several types of birds in there. Which are they Indian Pitta, endemic Yellow-eared BulBuls, Sri Lanka White-eye, Scimitar Babbler and migrant Pied Thrush, Forest Wagtail, Velvet Nuthatch and Indian Blue Robin, Kashmir Flycatcher & etc.? If are going to plan to stay at “Nuwara Eliya” city, this is one of the nice place to end up journey and relax some time.

Stop 03

Gregory Lake

Lake Gregory (Sinhala: ග්‍රෙගරි වැව Gregari Væva), sometimes also called Gregory Lake or Gregory Reservoir, is a reservoir in heart of the tea country hill city, Nuwara Eliya, Sri Lanka. Lake Gregory was constructed during the period of British Governor Sir William Gregory in 1873. The lake and the surrounding area make up the Gregory Lake Area. One of the main attractions in Nuwara Eliya is Gregory Lake, which is located among the beautiful mountains and tea plantations. Coast of lake is the favorite place for not only tourists, but locals. Here, has a picnic, walk the paths, ride horses and bikes, enjoying the beautiful views of nature. But to swim in the lake impossible. However, you can ride on catamarans, water motorcycles, and even take off and land the plane.

Stay Night in Nuwara Eliya

Day 06 – Ella

Stop 01

Rawana Falle

Rawana Cave

Nine Arches Bridge

Stop 02

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!

Stay Night in Ella

Day 07 – Badulla

Stop 01

Pahanthudawa waterfall

Pahanthuda Waterfall is situated about 1.5 km away from Belihuloya in the Ratnapura district. It is 5 meters high. The fall gets its name due to its base pool in the shape of a “pahana”, a clay lamp and the fall resembling the wick of the lamp. Hike to pahanthudawa waterfall is an interesting adventure for ardent hikers.

Stop 02

Bakers Bend

British governor Samuel Bakers used to traverse from Ihala-Galagama area to Horton plains and had to pass the area where the current bend is. The horse he rode suddenly slipped and fell off the cliff but the governor survived.

There is another version of this story as well. Mr. Baker and his wife were riding on a horse cart and it had gone out of control and off the cliff at the bend. Both Mr. Baker and wife had managed to get off before it was too late.

Whatever version is correct, the horse had died. Grieved by the loss, he built this bend in the shape of a horseshoe to commemorate his travel companion.

Moving to Udawalawe & Stay Night in there

Day 08 – Udawalawe

Stop 01

Udawalawe National Park

In general, the best time to travel to Uda Walawe is from January to March, when rainfall is at its lowest and daytime temperatures average a comfortable 26°C (79°F).

Park entrance fees of $15 / £11.50 per adult and $8 / £6 per child (under 6 are free) plus a LKR 250 (£1) jeep charge, all plus 15% tax. The park is 165 kilometers (103 mi) from Colombo. Udawalawe is an important habitat for water birds and Sri Lankan elephants. It is a popular tourist destination and the third-most visited park in the country.

Stop 02

Udawalawe Transit Home

The primary objective of the facility is to rehabilitate orphaned elephant calves to ready them for life in the wild. The elephants are made familiar with the surrounding habitat of the facility to familiarize them with their natural habit but are given access to food and medical care. Although human visitors are welcome at the facility specially to view their feeding, stringent efforts are made to minimize human contact to prevent the orphaned elephant calves from being acclimated to humans. The elephants are being taken care of until they are around 5 years old, before being released to the wild habitats of the Udawalawe National Park.

The elephants are never chained, but are free to roam around – and play! – as they wish. Human contact is kept to a minimum in order to maximize their chance of survival when they are returned to the wild. There is no touching, washing or posing alongside them for photos.

Stop 03

Hummanaya Blow Hole

Known to be the second largest in the world and the largest in Sri Lanka alone, discover the Hummanaya Blow Hole while you explore the southern coast! Located in Kudawella, a little after the bustling town of Matara. The Hummanaya Blow Hole is a natural wonder that sprays a jet of sea water into the air between two giant rocks; sometimes reaching heights of over 80 – 100 feet.

Stay Night in Thangalla

Day 09 – Mirissa

Stop 01

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.

Stop 02

Koggala Still fisherman

Stilt Fishing is one of the most interesting traditional fishing methods of Sri Lanka. Though stilt fishermen make the activity seem easy and comfortable; stilt fishing requires much skill and balance. The practice started during World War II when food shortages and overcrowded fishing spots prompted some clever men to try fishing on the water. At first, they used the wreckage of capsized ships and downed aircraft, then began erecting their stilts in coral reefs.

Stop 03

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.

Stay Night in Thalpe

Day 10 – Hikkaduwa

Stop 01

Hikkaduwa Beach

Hikkaduwa is one of the best surfing spots in Sri Lanka, offering a clear hot water base. The waves vary in size from 4 to 11 feet. Surfing in the Hikkaduwa area is fairly well known and gets the best surfing during its dry season, which is from November to March. There are 4 hotspots in Hikkaduwa. 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. 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. There are more than four different shipwrecks for diving enthusiasts to explore as well as diving shops offering PADI courses and equipment

Stop 02

Aurwedic Treatment

Stay Night in Hikkaduwa Sea Night

Day 11 – Rathnapura

Stop 01

National Museum Rathnapura

The National Museum of Rathnapura is one of the national exhibition halls of Sri Lanka. It is situated in Rathnapura, Sri Lanka and it was opened on 13 May 1988. The gallery building is called “Ehelepola Walauwa”, as it once had a place with Ehelepola Nilame, a squire of the Kingdom of Kandy, who was the first Adigar (1811 – 1814) under the rule King Sri Vikrama Rajasinha, the last lord of Sri Lanka, for whom he filled in as the Disawe (neighborhood Governor) of Rathnapura.

The historical center incorporates displays on ancient archaeological creations, common legacy, land, anthropological, zoological relics and models identifying with the Sabaragamuwa Province. The weaponry in plain view incorporates Sinhala swords of the late medieval time including a sword asserted to have had a place with Ehelepola, and a gathering of old firearms including a Vickers assault rifle utilized amid the First World War. The cooking utensils of the locale incorporate a tripod container with three molds for getting ready rice flour cakes known as Kiri roti. Conventional Kandyan adornments incorporates pieces of jewelry, bangles, anklets and hoops. The grounds of the historical center contain a palaeobiodiversity stop, with life-sized creature models of species accepted to have existed in the area.

Stop 02

Bopath Ella Waterfall

Bopath Falls is located in the village of Agalwatta in the Rathnapura District of Sri Lanka. The Kuru River, a tributary of the Black River, cascades down 30 meters (95 feet) high through a narrow opening from the top of a mountain at one point in her journey. The name 'Bopath Ella' is derived from the fact that the stream collapses in the form of a Bo leaf when there is good water. The first body of water, which falls through a narrow opening, then expands, reminiscent of the shape of a palm leaf. Bopath Ella is a beautiful place that attracts the attention of local tourists today.

Stop 02

Gem Mines

Gemstone mining in Sri Lanka is mostly from secondary deposits. The gravels yield sapphire, ruby, cat's-eye and other chrysoberyl’s, spinel, garnet, beryl, tourmaline, topaz, quartz, and many other gemstones. Sri Lanka's gem-bearing gravels, called illam, are some of the richest in the world. The most commonly used Gemstone mining method in Sri Lanka is Pit-Head Mining and Tunneling. Surface Placer Mining and River Bed Dredging are the other methods used widely.

Stay Night in Rathnapura

Day 12 – Colombo

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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