Highlights of Lanka

Arrive Colombo & Travel to Negombo

Welcome to Sri Lanka!!! Upon arrival at Colombo airport, Total Holiday Options Executive will meet you at the arrival lounge holding a placard. Followed by transfer to Negombo. Negombo or Meegamuwa in Sinhalese is a major city in Sri Lanka, situated on the west coast and at the mouth of the Negombo Lagoon in Western Province. Situated six kilometres from the International airport of Sri Lanka, is a characteristic predominantly Christian fishing town with narrow streets and small boutiques, and many historic churches to visit and see, with its routes running back to the arrival of the Portuguese. A resort town dotted with many hotels and restaurants and the famous lagoon, where one could take a ride in an outrigger sailing canoe and experience the authentic fisherman’s life or explore the town to witness the locals day to day activity.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the Hotel.

Travel to Dambulla (En-route visit Dambulla Cave Temple)

Today travel to Dambulla tucked in the Central Province of Sri Lanka, the humble town of Dambulla is a treasure trove of historical monuments that are definitely worth a visit. Of all the places to visit in Dambulla, the amazing Dambulla cave temple complex must be first on your list. The Dambulla Cave Temples an UNESCO World Heritage Site, dating back to the first century BC and considered to hold the most breath-taking masterpieces of Buddhist Art in Sri Lanka. The complex spans five caves and contains over 150 Buddha images, some which date as far back as the 1st century BC. The most elaborate and spectacular of the caves is the massive reclining Buddha statue rests in the background. After exploring the cave complex, step outside and witness a beautiful view of the nearby countryside.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Excursion to Polonnaruwa and Minneriya National Park

Today Proceed for a sightseeing tour of Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which was the second capital of Sri Lanka in the 11th and 12th centuries. Travel by air-conditioned vehicle with your personal driver-guide, and visit the ruins of the Royal Palace, the Gal Vihare, three splendid statues of the Buddha in upright, sedan and recumbent postures carved out of a large rock. Other interesting sights are the Lotus Bath, Tivanke Image House with the best known Buddhist frescoes of Sri Lanka. Afternoon, proceed for a jeep safari at Minneriya National Park. The Park is based largely around a huge tank (reservoir) and serves as the largest assembling of Asian Elephants at any given time. Besides elephants, Minneriya is also home to many species of mammals like the deer, sambur sloth bear, and a variety of birds. During the dry season (June to September), this tank is an incredible place to observe the elephants who come to bathe and graze at the reservoir.

Travel to Kandy ( En-route visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress & Matale Spice Garden)

Today travel to Kandy. Prior to that, rise early for your journey to the magnificent rock-top fortress of Sigiriya, a 5th century UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through picturesque water and boulder gardens, past the pools and fountains, and climb past the ancient and colossal Lion’s Paws to a steep winding 200-meter high staircase. Pause during your ascent to admire the mirror wall and the famous Sigiriya frescoes. Upon reaching the summit you will admire 360-degree breath-taking views of the surrounding jungle and hills. Later leave for Kandy. En-route, visit Matale Spice Plantation, and try different spices and herbs, helping you gain an insight into the long spice history of the island. Step into the unpolluted, green garden, where you can see how herbs are grown in their natural environment, then learn how you can use them to enhance the taste of specialty meals. Find various products made from the garden's herbs and spices at the onsite shop.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Kandy City Tour (Visit to the Temple of Tooth relic & Gem Museum, Upper lake and Evening cultural show)

This morning we enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Kandy and visit multiple highlights of the UNESCO listed city. Start your day with hotel pickup at 9:00 am and head to your first stop, visit a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Temple of the Tooth. This temple has a burgeoning history spanning several centuries and is the home of the Sacred Tooth Relic of Buddha. Then walk around the Kandy Lake and to the Upper Lake area where you can get a beautiful view of Kandy. Next to the Gem Museum and enjoy a short film on how gemstones are mined in Sri Lanka then explore the shop attached showcasing the finished jewelry. In the evening enjoy a spectacular Kandy Cultural Show, which will give you the opportunity to watch various traditional Kandyan dances and acts.

Travel to Bentota

Bentota is a coastal town that is merely two hours away with a beach strip that is the perfect ingredient for the ultimate vacation. All your worries and cares simply vanish once you set your eyes on the magnificent Indian Ocean in all its glory. It will feel like you are floating for the next couple of days or weeks as you get lost in the sights and delights of this tropical town. The best part about Bentota is that it is like a spectrum – you can either spend your days in a peaceful mood relaxing by the beach, or if you’re the adventurous type there are a host of water and sea based activities and sports to participate in to keep you occupied. Ranging from jet-skiing, paddle-boarding and diving for professionals and beginners, there is an exceeding amount of things to do.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Madu River Boat ride & Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery

Transfer to Balapitya for the Madu River boat ride. Enjoy a one-hour Madu river boat safari through the primitive depths of the mangrove marshes. Traverse the dark and dangerous caverns formed by the thick mangrove forests. Watch the cormorants, storks, and other avian life hunt for their prey in the swift flow of the River. Then proceed towards the Buddhist Monastery, see how Kraal fishing is carried out and Ceylon Cinnamon is peeled, if you wish to purchase some fresh, high-quality cinnamon to take home as a souvenir. Make sure to visit the fish massage Spa to enjoy some 'fish therapy' as they playfully nibble your feet. Thereafter visit a Turtle Care Centre at Kosgoda beach is one of 18 turtle hatcheries along the southern coast of Sri Lanka. Located in the South Western coastal village of Kosgoda and was established in 1981. It is also very popular as all five species of turtles that visit Sri Lanka nest in Kosgoda.

Travel to Colombo

Today travel to Colombo. on the western coast of the island, Colombo is a sprawling city home to over five million people. It is traditionally centered around Fort, a business district with its roots as a fortified Portuguese trading post, and the green waters of Beira Lake, all facing out to sea. Hot and busy, recent years have seen Colombo gradually transform from a place visitor could not avoid to a fascinating destination well worth exploring. Its historic quarters and grand 19th-century architecture have been restored, the seafront spruced up and cosmopolitan vibe revived with numerous museums, galleries, and characterful eateries opening that celebrates its unique and diverse heritage. The city is dotted with temples, shrines, cafes, markets and is best explored by Tuk Tuk or in the safety of your vehicle.

Colombo Departure

Assisted transfer to Colombo Airport to board flight for onward journey.