Beaches & Villages of Sri Lanka

Highlights

• Explore Colombo: Galle Face Green, Gangaramaya Temple, Pettah Market.
• Overnight in Colombo.

• Visit Galle Fort: Dutch Reformed Church, Galle Lighthouse.
• Overnight in Galle.

• Relax on Mirissa Beach.
• Whale and dolphin watching.
• Overnight in Mirissa.

• Hike to Little Adam's Peak or Ella Rock.
• Visit a tea plantation.
• Overnight in Ella.

• Visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
• Explore Royal Botanical Gardens.
• Enjoy a Kandyan cultural show.
• Overnight in Kandy.

• Last-minute shopping or sightseeing in Colombo before departure.

Itinerary

Day 1-2: Colombo

• Arrival: Arrive in Colombo, the vibrant capital city of Sri Lanka.
• City Exploration: Spend the day exploring Colombo's highlights:
  • Galle Face Green: Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the oceanfront promenade.
  • Gangaramaya Temple: Visit this prominent Buddhist temple with its intricate architecture and museum.
  • Independence Square: Discover this historic landmark and its significance in Sri Lanka's independence.
  • Pettah Market: Dive into the bustling streets for a cultural shopping experience.
• Stay: Overnight in Colombo.

Day 2-3: Galle

• Travel to Galle: Take a scenic train ride or drive to Galle, a city steeped in colonial history.
• Explore Galle Fort: Spend a full day exploring Galle Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site:
  • Dutch Reformed Church: Admire its colonial architecture and serene ambiance.
  • Galle Lighthouse: Enjoy panoramic views of the coast from the top.
  • Fort Walls: Walk along the ramparts for beautiful vistas and sunset views.
• Stay: Overnight in Galle.

Day 4-5: Mirissa

• Travel to Mirissa: Head to Mirissa, known for its pristine beaches and whale watching.
• Beach Time: Relax on Mirissa Beach, swim, sunbathe, or explore nearby coves.
• Whale and Dolphin Watching: Take a boat tour to spot whales and dolphins in their natural habitat.
• Stay: Overnight in Mirissa.

Day 6-7: Ella

• Travel to Ella: Journey inland to Ella, a charming village surrounded by tea plantations and dramatic landscapes.
• Hiking: Choose between hiking to Little Adam's Peak for panoramic views or Ella Rock for a more challenging trek.
• Tea Plantation Visit: Learn about tea production with a visit to a local tea estate.
• Stay: Overnight in Ella.

Day 8-9: Kandy

• Travel to Kandy: Proceed to Kandy, the cultural heart of Sri Lanka.
• Temple of the Tooth Relic: Visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and important Buddhist pilgrimage site.
• Royal Botanical Gardens: Explore the lush landscapes of the Royal Botanical Gardens in Peradeniya.
• Cultural Show: Attend a traditional Kandyan cultural performance showcasing music, dance, and folklore.
• Stay: Overnight in Kandy.

Day 10: Colombo

• Return to Colombo: Travel back to Colombo for your departure.
• Last-minute Shopping: Explore local markets or upscale shopping malls for souvenirs and gifts.
• Sightseeing: Visit any attractions missed on the first day or relax before your flight.
• Stay: Overnight in Colombo.

Day 11: Departure

• Departure: Depending on your flight schedule, you may have time for last-minute activities before heading to the airport.

This itinerary covers a diverse range of experiences from cultural exploration in Colombo and Kandy to scenic beauty in Galle, Mirissa, and Ella, ensuring you get a comprehensive taste of Sri Lanka's rich heritage and natural wonders.

Inclusions:

1. ·  Accommodation: Book hotels or guesthouses in each destination. Look for options that suit your comfort level and budget, ranging from budget guesthouses to luxury hotels. Ensure they are centrally located or offer easy access to local attractions.
2. ·  Transportation: Arrange transfers between destinations via private car, train (where applicable), or bus. Private cars are convenient for flexibility and comfort, especially for longer journeys. Trains offer scenic routes, such as the Colombo to Galle journey, which is highly recommended.
3. ·  Guided Tours: Consider hiring local guides for specific activities like city tours, temple visits, or cultural experiences. They provide insights into local history, culture, and hidden gems that you might miss otherwise.
4. ·  Activities: Pre-book activities such as whale and dolphin watching in Mirissa, hiking tours to Little Adam's Peak or Ella Rock, and tickets for cultural shows in Kandy. This ensures availability and sometimes includes transportation to and from your accommodation.
5. ·  Entrance Fees: Include admission fees to attractions like Galle Fort, the Temple of the Tooth Relic in Kandy, Royal Botanical Gardens, and any other sites you plan to visit. These fees contribute to the upkeep of these historical and cultural landmarks.
6. ·  Meals: Breakfast is typically included in your accommodation package. Additional meals can be enjoyed at local restaurants, offering a chance to savor Sri Lankan cuisine. Plan for lunches and dinners based on your daily activities and preferences.
7. ·  Itinerary Planning: Customize your itinerary based on your interests—whether it's history, nature, or relaxation. Include enough downtime for spontaneity and exploration.
8. ·  Airport Transfers: Arrange for pickup upon arrival at Colombo International Airport and drop-off before departure. Many hotels and tour operators offer this service as part of their packages.
9. ·  Taxes and Service Charges: Ensure all costs, including taxes and service charges, are included in the overall package to avoid unexpected expenses.

Exclusions:

·  International Flights: Research and book flights to and from Sri Lanka. Prices can vary based on the time of booking, seasonality, and airline preferences. Booking in advance often helps secure better rates.

·  Visa Fees: Check the current visa requirements for Sri Lanka and any associated fees. Tourist visas can typically be obtained online prior to arrival or upon arrival at the airport.

·  Travel Insurance: Purchase travel insurance covering medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Compare policies to find one that meets your needs for coverage and duration.

·  Additional Meals: Budget for lunches, dinners, and snacks not included in your accommodation package. Sri Lankan cuisine offers a variety of options from street food to fine dining.

·  Personal Expenses: Allocate funds for souvenirs, alcoholic beverages, laundry services, and any other personal expenses you anticipate during your trip.

·  Optional Activities: Consider additional activities not included in your main itinerary but available as add-ons. These could include extra excursions, spa treatments, or special tours.

·  Tipping: While tipping is discretionary in Sri Lanka, it is appreciated for good service. Plan for gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff based on your satisfaction with their services.

·  Extra Services: Account for any extra services or upgrades you might opt for during your trip, such as room upgrades, special transfers, or additional guided tours.

·  Currency Exchange: Factor in costs related to currency exchange or transaction fees. It's advisable to exchange currency at authorized outlets or use credit cards where accepted to minimize fees.