Lanka Explorer

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.

Negombo City Tour

Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Negombo. The town of Negombo in specific is a great place to spend a relaxed vacation soaking in some sun while being showered by warm hospitality. For the city tour we start with Negombo Fish Market, City was founded originally as a fishing village which has remained a backbone amongst the local community. Walk down the small fishing villages on the outskirts of Negombo to witness the large open-air fish market. It gives you an unpretentious insight into the local fisher community. The market is loud, vibrant and smells like fish! You will be able to witness the fishermen in hundreds of boats bringing in their days catch. See how the wholesalers and restaurateurs trade and watch the packing & loading of fish for distribution across the country as well as for export – worldwide. Later continue the city tour to visit the Dutch church & port, Angurukaramulla Temple, St. Mary’s Church and Hindu Temple.

Travel to Anuradhapura

Today travel to Anuradhapura. It is a notable and highly explored ancient city of Sri Lanka, which is known for its ruins which represent the early civilization of Sri Lanka. This destination is visited in large numbers by the people of Buddhist religion and is the major Buddhist pilgrimage’ spot of the nation. Anuradhapura used to be the capital of this Island (in the ancient period) and almost all major rulers of Sri Lanka resided here during their ruling time. It is one of the sacred world heritage sites because of some breathtaking attractions like Jetavanaramaya, Ruwanwelisaya, Jaya Sri Maha Bodhi, Kuttam Pokuna and many more are there on the list.

Assistance on Arrival (Visit Anuradhapura)

Assistance on arrival and visit Anuradhapura. Proceed for sightseeing tour of Anuradhapura a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the north-central part of the Island which was the first capital (5th century BC - 9th century AD), the center of the island's Buddhist civilization and undoubtedly the grandest city of ancient Sri Lanka Travel by air-conditioned vehicle with your personal driver-guide, and visit the ruined city of Anuradhapura. Here you will see the remains of the Brazen Palace (which was once 9 stories high) and the Sri Maha Bodhi a Bo Tree, which is over 2000 years old and grew from the branch of the very tree beneath which the Buddha attained enlightenment. Later visit Mihintale, which serves as a residential area for the venerable monks. The sixty eight cave dwellings provide the monks shade and shelter. Mihintale, the sanctuary for many thousands of laymen as well as holy men, had all the facilities and amenities for basic living.

Travel to Jaffna

This morning we travel to Jaffna, North of Sri Lanka is a true off-the-beaten-track adventure. The islands around the peninsula are particularly interesting and the intrepid traveler will be rewarded with a fascinating insight into this historic region of the country. The peninsula consists of Jaffna town itself, with its crumbling but beautiful buildings, the wider countryside characterized by the Palmyra tree and the unique agriculture, and the islands of Kayts, Delft, and Nainativu. There are many attractions to keep you busy. Some of them are Jaffna Market, which is a colorful and chaotic market and a treasure trove of products that you will not be able to find in a regular shop or supermarket; Nallur Kandiswamy Kovil, built in the 15th century and used to be the ancient capital for the Jaffna Kingdom; Nagadeepa, a small island off the coast of the Jaffna peninsula that is said to have been the home of the Naga people, an ancient tribe that once inhabited Sri Lanka.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

City tour (visit Kandadorai Viharaya, Dambakola Patuna, Keeramallai)

Today we enjoy a city sightseeing tour of the Jaffna town and visit some of its prominent sites such as Gurunagar to witness the fishing harbor and the fish market. Jaffna Fort and Clock Tower that was built to commemorate the visit of the Prince of Wales in 1875, Duraiappa Stadium, Subramaniam Park, the Jaffna Public Library which was subjected to destruction during tensions in the 1980s and later restored. Sri Naga Viharaya the temple where the sapling of the original Bodhi tree was once brought and was placed before going to the King's palace. Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil and the Archaeological Museum of Jaffna. Later we stop by a local market place where various authentic Jaffna produce is found.

Visit to Nallur Kovil, Point Pedro and Jaffna Library

Today we have an early start to explore some of the iconic sights of Jaffna city. We first visit Nallur Kandaswamy Kovil by 7 am, an exemplar piece of Jaffna’s history. Its distinctive red and white stripes on its exterior walls reflecting great cultural and social significance. We then proceed to Jaffna Archaeological Museum, housing collections from the Buddhist and Hindu religions, in various forms of metal, wood and stone. The Jaffna Public Library is a striking piece of British colonial architecture now considered an important Tamil cultural center and historic institution. Later proceed to Jaffna Fort, overlooking the lagoon with colorful fishing boats. Stroll through the fort and observe its unique features. Then drive to Point Pedro, passing through Jaffna town, observing sights and sounds of daily life in Jaffna. Discover the northern coastline, the lighthouse sits on the west side of the shore.

Travel to Dambulla

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. Sightseeing in Dambulla almost exclusively centers around this icon of Sri Lanka, full of statues of Buddha and Sri Lankan kings. The town itself is crammed with traffic and features one of the biggest wholesale vegetable markets in the country. Enthusiasts of water activities can visit the nearby reservoir, a popular outing spot year-round with hot-air ballooning and a spa. A few restaurants in town serve up a variety of spicy dishes.

Assistance on Arrival and visit Dambulla Cave Temple

Arrive Dambulla and visit Dambulla Cave Temples, towering above the plains of Dambulla is this awe-inspiring UNESCO World Heritage site, the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex. This ancient Buddhist pilgrimage is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. The five major caves are dotted with 150 plus stunning Buddha statues (and a few depicting Sri Lankan kings, gods and goddesses) as well as huge cave paintings & murals making this is one of the must-visit Dambulla tourist places. The intricate cave paintings, serene statues of Buddha, and the sacred vibes makes these caves a beautiful spiritual sanctuary and one of the best temples in Sri Lanka.

Sigiriya Rock Fortress

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-metre 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.

Excursion to Polonnaruwa & Hiriwadunna Village Experience

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. Later, pay a visit to a farmer's house in Sigiriya and learn about their farming traditions, including an exploration of his organic garden. The guided walk goes around Hiriwadunna lake giving chance to spot birds and land monitors and cross a little jungle rivulet by Catamaran. The bullock cart ride through the paddy fields is a unique experience and feel the traveling back in time where the early Sri Lankans used the bullock cart rides as a main mode of transportation here in Sri Lanka.

Travel to Kandy (En-route visit Matale Spice Garden)

Today we travel to Kandy nestled in the plateau in central Sri Lanka, Kandy Highland is a paradise getaway surrounded by mountains, tea plantations, and a rainforest known for its biodiversity. The city reveals imposing colonial era and Kandyan architecture, none more impressive than the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, one of Buddhism's most sacred shrines. 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 and spices are grown in their natural environment, then learn about its medicinal values and use in Sri Lankan cuisine 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 Nuwara Eliya (Enroute visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden)

Travel to Nuwara Eliya. Enroute visit Peradeniya Botanical Garden 147 acres in extent; Started in 1374 as a pleasure garden of the Kings of Gampola and Kandy. There are more than 5,000 species of trees, plants, and creepers. Some rare and endemic as well as flora from the tropical world are found in the gardens. Spice Garden and Orchid House are popular with tourists. There are 5 Palm Avenues beautifying the gardens, the earliest and tallest Palm Avenue (Royal Palm Avenue) was planted in 1905 and the Double Coconuts from the Seashells Island, with the largest seed of all plants in the world is one such avenue. Later continue your drive to Nuwara Eliya.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the Hotel.

Ceylon tea tour

We have an early start to visit a Tea Plantation and Factory. Nuwara Eliya also nicknamed Little England, rest & recuperate center of the colonial British tea planters and dignitaries. The smoking steeples, British Tudor style architecture, misty mountains covered in tea plantations, and a lake to stroll along with feeling like a perfect holiday. On arrival, we enjoy a tour around the famous tea gardens of Nuwara Eliya, a land of tea estates and waterfalls! Later take a guided tour of the tea factory and learn about the next stage in the production of tea making. The full process involves Tea Plucking, Withering, Rolling, Fermentation, Firing, and Sorting/Grading before it is bulk packed to be sent to the tea auctions in Colombo. After the tour, enjoy a cup of tea that is made here, sitting on the café balcony that overlooks the stunning tea plantations.

Travel to Yala

Travel to Yala and discover the spectacular wilderness of Yala National Park, the core of a contiguous system of nine connected protected areas, and home to much of Sri Lanka’s magnificent wildlife. With Block 1 dating back to 1900, this wildlife sanctuary has grown over the years. Nestled in the south-east corner of Sri Lanka, the park is home to a high concentration of leopards. Yala also shelters an abundance of the Asian elephant, wild buffalo, sloth bear, jackal, sambar deer, and magnificent bird species. Other activities which you can try around the area are nature walks, kayaking in one of the lakes, and visiting archaeological ruins.

Excursion to Kataragama Temple

Enjoy an excursion to Kataragama Temple. Rich in history, Kataragama Temple stands on ground that has been considered hallowed for around 2,500 years--said to have been consecrated by Gautama Buddha himself. The site ranks among the few revered by a multitude of religions, including Buddhists, Hindus, Moors, and Veddas. Tour the collection of humble stone shrines, which remain as originally constructed. Look for the shrine devoted to Skanda-Murugan, containing a drawing of the deity's ca18pabilities, and the tree said to have grown from a sapling of the revered Anuradhapura Bo tree. Be prepared for a bit of a walk to the temples, as vehicles cannot approach beyond the gate. You will need to take off your shoes, so bring socks to protect your feet from the hot ground.

Morning Safari and Travel to Galle

Early morning embark on a unique safari experience in Sri Lanka's most popular wildlife sanctuary Yala National Park. It is a huge area of forest, grassland and lagoons bordering the Indian Ocean, in southeast Sri Lanka. Hop into one of the Jeeps commanded by a knowledgeable ranger, for a guided tour tracking the impressive number of elephants, crocodiles, buffaloes and hopefully, a leopard along the way. Later travel to Ahungalla. En-route enjoy the Galle city tour. This tour of Galle allows you to explore the fort area on foot. You will be able to climb up to the ramparts of the fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walk through the streets. Galle Fort Lighthouse another UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built in 1848 during the British colonial period and is a perfect spot to relax and feel the beauty of nature. Continue your drive to Ahungalla, a small coastal town, located in Galle District Southern Province of Sri Lanka, governed by an Urban Council.

Assistance on arrival

Assistance on arrival and transfer to the hotel.

Galle City Tour

This tour of Galle allows you to explore the fort area on foot. We will take you to all the places that have so many stories in-store for you to be heard. You will be able to climb up to the ramparts of the fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and walk through the streets. We visit the Dutch Reformed Church located inside Galle Fort, the church has high historic value. Galle Fort Clock Tower built in the late 19th-century and is a four-storied monument made up of stone. Meera Mosque Situated near the Galle Fort Lighthouse, reflecting Dutch architectural style, it was built around 300 years ago as per the locals. Galle Fort Lighthouse another UNESCO World Heritage Site and was built in 1848 during the British colonial period and is a perfect spot to relax and feel the beauty of nature. Along the way, you will take a break with a cup of fine Ceylon Tea or a refreshing King Coconut.

Travel to Colombo (En-route visit Mask Factory)

Travel to Colombo. En-route visit Mask Factory in the town of Ambalangoda south of Sri Lanka, famous for traditional masks making, mask dancing & puppetry in the country. The clients could witness a variety of masks and how they are turned out of “Kaduru wood” (Balsac) which the wood is soaked to soften before carving. Continue your drive to Colombo, 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 port. 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 celebrate its unique and diverse heritage. The city is dotted with temples, shrines, cafes, markets and is best explored by Tuk-Tuk or with your vehicle.

Colombo City Tour

Today indulge in Colombo City Tour. 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. In this tour, you will visit famous attractions like The Independence Square, BMICH and the Aukana Buddha Statue replica, SSC Cricket Club and Sri Lanka Cricket Head office, Cinnamon Gardens and Colombo highly residential area, Beautiful Gangarama Temple and Seemamalaka overlooking the Beira Lake, Galle Face Green & Colombo National Museum.

Colombo Departure

In time assisted transfer to Colombo International Airport to board your onward flight home.