Splendours Tour

Overview
Places to See
Itinerary
Selection of Hotels
Notes

Ayubowan!

Welcome to Sri Lanka!

Splendours Tour – 6 nights

Sri Lanka is a lush, tropical island paradise, known to Arab traders as Serendib - hence the word "serendipity", meaning discovery by happy accident. It was famously described by Marco Polo as "undoubtedly the finest island of its size in the world".

This is a culturally rich and environmentally diverse country, with nine World Heritage Sites (the oldest dating back to the 3rd Century BC); 86 species of mammals (including elephant and leopard) and more than 400 bird species (including 26 endemics); a colorful array of flowering plants and trees, and a Hill Country famous for tea; 14 National Parks out of 100 areas protected by the government; and an Indian Ocean coastline boasting palm-fringed and sandy tropical beaches.

Sri Lanka, once known as Serendib Taprobane is now also known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. This paradise isle, which is indeed shaped like a pearl, offers pristine beaches, lush tea estates, and more waterfalls perhaps than any other country- a staggering 350 that cascade dramatically down rolling, Hillsides and mist-shrouded mountains, and a culture that reaches back over 2,500 years. Famous for its spices and spice plantations, Sri Lanka was described by a renowned botanist, as simply one big botanical garden.

Cities where you are staying

  • 03 nights in Dambulla
  • 02 nights in Kandy
  • 01 night in Nuwara Eliya

What you will do during the tour

  • Visit medieval capital Anuradhapura & Temple in Mihintale
  • Visit Sigiriya Rock Fortress
  • Visit Ancient city of Polonnaruwa
  • Visit Dambulla Cave Temple
  • Visit to Kandy Tooth Temple
  • Visit to Peradeniya Botanical Garden
  • Train Journey in Hill country
DAY 1 - AIRPORT / DAMBULLA (Approx. distance – 170 km / transfer time: 3 to 4 Hrs)

On arrival at Colombo International Airport on, you will be met by a professional English speaking driver from Travel Ease Tours.

After the completion of formalities at the airport, you will be escorted to your air conditioned vehicle. Thereafter, you will make the journey to Dambulla, in the north-central plains – an area known as the “Cultural Triangle” (an area filled with ancient monuments, palaces and monasteries, which take you back to the golden age of Sinhalese civilization).

Upon arrival check into the hotel, and spend the rest of the day in leisure and relaxation

OVERNIGHT AT DAMBULLA

DAY 2– DAMBULLA / ANURADHAPURA / DAMBULLA (Approx. distance – 70 km / transfer time: 1.5 to 2 Hrs)

After breakfast, depart for Anuradhapura, to the north. Upon arriving, you will enjoy a city tour of this sprawling and majestic city, filled with monuments, temples, monastic complexes, palaces, ruins and courtyards, which are well-preserved and spellbinding.

Visit the ruins of one of Sri Lanka’s oldest capitals and one of the oldest continuous inhabited cities in the world, founded in the 05th century BC. Here is found the largest number of ancient monuments of a great civilization. Buddhism found its first real home in Sri Lanka at Anuradhapura, and it thus contains some of Theravada Buddhism’s most sacred sites.

Thereafter, visit the “Sri Maha Bodhi” Bo Tree, which is the oldest authentically verified tree in the world, with a history spanning over 2,000 years. The “Sri Maha Bodhi” tree in Anuradhapura, planted from a cutting from the original “Bo Tree” under which the Buddha received enlightenment, continues to draw thousands of Buddhist pilgrims from around the world. The pillars of the brazen palace which once had nine stories, the image of the Samadhi Buddha which is one of the finest pieces of Buddhists sculpture, the twin ponds, guard-stones and the moon-stones are amazing remains and reminders of a great civilization.

A few sites that can be seen in Anuradapura

  • The Jetavanarama – The 3rd tallest structure of the ancient world behind the Great Pyramids and the largest stupa ever built anywhere in the world
  • Ruwanweli Seya
  • Abhayagiri Dagoba
  • Thuparama
  • Lovampahaya
  • Lankarama
  • Isurumuniya
  • Magul Uyana
  • Kuttam Pokuna
  • Samadhi Statue

Thereafter, make the short journey to Mihintale, a 1000 feet high mountain peak. It holds a special place in the hearts of Sri Lankan Buddhists, due to it being the place where Buddhism made its presence in the island.

Upon completion, you will be brought back to your hotel in Dambulla.

OVERNIGHT AT DAMBULLA

DAY 3 – DAMBULLA / SIGIRIYA / POLONNARUWA / DAMBULLA (Approx. distances – 8 km (20 minutes) to Sigiriya and 58 km (1.5 to 2 hours) from Sigiriya to Polonnaruwa)

After breakfast visit the famous Sigiriya Rock Fortress.

Sigiriya is an impressive rock palace surrounded by landscaped gardens and expansive views of the surrounding countryside. The UNSECO World Heritage Site of Sigiriya, a most singular geological formation towering 660ft above the surrounding plains. Sigiriya Rock is in fact an ancient hardened magma plug from an extinct and long eroded mountain. The Rock consisted of an opulent palace atop which is now in ruins; an intricate and extensive network of gardens, ponds, reservoirs and aqueducts can be observed around the complex. The mirror wall and the frescoes of ancient “Sigiriya Damsels” can be viewed on the rock. The views are truly spectacular and awe-inspiring.

On completion proceed to Polonnaruwa.

Polonnaruwa, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, one of the Ancient Kingdoms of Sri Lanka. Polonnaruwa is situated in the north-central region of Sri Lanka and is an important ancient architectural site. The ancient city of Polonnaruwa remains one of the best-planned archeological sites on the island, with its numerous palaces, monuments, ponds, temples, museums and statues. Polonnaruwa is home to the Parakrama Samudra (Sea of King Parakrama), a huge reservoir built by the namesake King around A.D. 386, best known for his immortal phrase, “Let not a single drop of rain that falls on this island flow into the ocean without first serving humanity.” Polonnaruwa is a dream come true to any person with panache for history, culture, tradition and nature.

A few sites that can be seen in Polonnaruwa:

  • Gal Vihara – A rock temple of the Lord Buddha. The central feature consists of 4 Buddha statues carved into the rock – 2 seated, 1 reclining and 1 standing
  • The ruins of the Royal Palace
  • Lakatileka Temple
  • Medirigiriya Vatadage – A vatadage is a type of Buddhist structure, circular in shape and adorned with intricate stone carvings, they act as a protection for smaller stupas built within them or important relics.)
  • Statue of the great King Parakramabahu the Great

On completion return to your hotel in Sigiriya.

OVERNIGHT AT DAMBULLA.

DAY 04 – DAMBULLA / MATALE / KANDY

After breakfast proceed to the Dambulla Rock Cave Temple. (Approx. Distance – 15km / transfer time: 15 to 20 minutes)

The cave complex is home to the Golden Temple of Dambulla or the Dambulla Cave Temple Complex, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Golden Temple of Dambulla is the largest and best preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. It towers 530 feet above the surrounding plains with sweeping views of the Sigiriya Lion Rock and the Kandyan Hills in the distance. The Cave monastery, home to Buddhist monks is covered with exquisite 2,000 year-old murals depicting the life and times of the Lord Buddha. The shrines also house a collection of 157 statues of Buddha in various sizes and poses, including a 15 meter long reclining Buddha and vividly coloured frescoes on the walls and ceiling, making this the largest antique painted surface in the world.

Thereafter, you will visit a spice garden and batik factory in Matale en-route to Kandy. (Approx. Distance – 65km / transfer time: 1.5 to 2 hours). Here you will be able to see different spices and aromatics for which Sri Lanka has been famous for centuries.

Thereafter proceed to Kandy, tucked away amidst lush evergreen forests at an elevation of 1640 ft and the gateway to the highlands. (Approx. Distance – 25km / transfer time: 1 to 1.5 hours)

Upon arrival, check into the hotel.

OVERNIGHT AT KANDY.

DAY 05 – KANDY / PINNAWALA / KANDY (Approx. Distance – 45km / transfer time: 1.5 hours)

After the breakfast you will be proceed to Millennium elephant foundation in Pinnawela. Millennium Elephant Foundation (MEF) a non-government organization (NGO) which is dedicated to improving the welfare of domestic elephants throughout Sri Lanka. Home of the new and exclusive Elephant Walk Experience. The alternative to elephant riding option for tourists. An ethical, up close and personal experience unique to MEF. The most interactive enjoyable way to see domestic elephants in Sri Lanka. The foundation has an international elephant volunteer program 365 days per year where the team is dedicated to the daily care of elephants and welcome applicants from all over the world. During the visit you will experience "How to bathe en Elephant" in a small stream near Pinnawala Orphanage. This is a private Elephant bathing experience.

After lunch, commence a City tour of Kandy visiting the Kandy Market, Kandy upper lake drive, Gem museum, Arts & Crafts Centre etc.

Late afternoon explore the city of Kandy and visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic which is located in the royal palace complex which houses the Relic of the tooth of Buddha. The entire complex is part of another UNESCO world heritage site.

On completion of the temple visit witness a cultural dance show.

The Royal City of Kandy is a World Heritage Site, as is the Temple of the Tooth, an important shrine to Buddhists the world over, since it contains a relic of the Lord Buddha’s Tooth. Kandy has a scintillating blend of ancient Sinhala architecture and contemporary architecture. The myriad colours, the pulsating atmosphere of the town center, sprinkled with amazing scenery and enveloped by a salubrious climate helps in making Kandy a must-visit destination in Sri Lanka.

OVERNIGHT AT KANDY.

DAY 06 – KANDY / NUWARA ELIYA (Approx. Distance – 80km / transfer time: 3 to 3.5 hours)

After breakfast visit the Peradeniya Botanical Gardens. (Approx. Distance – 6km / transfer time: 20 mins)

This was originally the King’s own royal pleasure garden that was later converted in to a botanic garden and opened to the public. At the Royal Botanical Gardens at ‘Peradeniya’ you could treat your eyes to an amazing, wide and rare collection of tropical and temperate, exotic and indigenous flora, and an orchid house with the largest collection in Asia. The gardens host the most extensive collection of orchids in Asia and are home to over 4000 indigenous and foreign specimens, including ornamental and medicinal

After that proceed to Peradeniya railway station and take the train to Nanu Oya. Train leaves Peradeniya @ 1230Noon and arrival to Nanu Oya at 1550Hrs.

Kandy was a base to start the scenic train journey through the Sri Lankan tea plantations to Nuwara Eliya (1,868m). The rail route to Nuwara Eliya rises slowly from the subtropical spice and banana trees to pine and eucalyptus forest. Hot to chilly, sunny to cloudy, dry to wet, this sedate and slow paced journey takes you through so many different habitats. Amongst the relaxing hues of green you’ll see every colour of the spectrum from the wide variety of flora along the route. Large blooms and petite flowers shimmer in the sun and light up the shade as you pass through mountain terraces, rock formations and forest woodlands. From Hatton, the scenery is the most spectacular, passing St Clair and Devon waterfalls on the left hand side and many tea plantations. You will pass through thousands acres of tea plantations, saw waterfalls and felt as if we were in the clouds at the highest summit of this railway. Finally after about four and a half hours, you will arrive at Nanu Oya station and from here there is a 15 minute drive to Nuwara Eliya.

On Completion proceed to Nuwara-Eliya. Evening sightseeing in Nuwara Eliya

Nuwara Eliya is set in the heart of tea-country is a beautiful town where the British succeeded in creating a replica of the English countryside, with homes in styles from Georgian to Tudor to Victorian to Queen Anne. Well-kept lawns with hedges, an Anglican church, a famous golf course and beautiful parks give the place an air of nostalgia. Situated 6,200 feet above sea level, the air is cool and fresh – a serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city life. The town is on the foothill of Pidurutalala, the highest mountain on the island, at 8,282ft. A near constant level of cloud cover, the gentle pitter-patter of raindrops, coniferous forests, and rolling fog, it is a place removed from the usual hustle and bustle of other towns in Sri Lanka. Hence, prime relaxation is guaranteed.

Horse and Pony riding is available at the Turf Club of Nuwara Eliya to facilitate you with some sports and adventure. A variety of activities are centred on the banks of Lake Gregory in the heart of Nuwara Eliya.

Upon Completion check in to your selected hotel.

OVERNIGHT AT NUWARA ELIYA.

DAY 7 – NUWARA ELIYA / KITULGALA / AIRPORT OR TO YOUR BEACH DESTINATION (Approx. Distance to Kitulgala – 72km / transfer time: 2 to 2.5 hrs)

After Breakfast, check out of the hotel and Proceed to Kitulagala for a quick stop. Here you may have an optional Lunch before heading off to the Airport for Departure OR to your chosen Beach destination

Kitulgala is a wee hamlet on the edge of the lowlands and highlands transition. It borders the Kelani River that ultimately flows into Colombo and the Indian Ocean, and is the premier destination for white water rafting in Sri Lanka. Film buffs will recognise Kitulgala as being the location where the award winning war epic “Bridge on the River Kwai” directed by David Lean and starring Alec Guinness, was filmed.

END OF TOUR.

SELECTION OF HOTELS

Standard Hotel:

LOCATION HOTEL ROOM TYPE MEAL PLAN NO. OF NIGHTS
DAMBULLA KASSAPA LION ROCK STANDARD BED AND BREAKFAST 03 NIGHTS
KANDY SERENE KANDY SUPERIOR BED AND BREAKFAST 02 NIGHTS
NUWARA ELIYA OAK RAY SUMMERHILL BREEZE STANDARD BED AND BREAKFAST 01 NIGHTS

Deluxe Hotel:

LOCATION HOTEL ROOM TYPE MEAL PLAN NO. OF NIGHTS
DAMBULLA AMAYA LAKE SUPERIOR BED AND BREAKFAST 03 NIGHTS
KANDY AMAYA HILLS SUPERIOR BED AND BREAKFAST 02 NIGHTS
NUWARA ELIYA ST. ANDREWS SUPERIOR BED AND BREAKFAST 01 NIGHTS

COST OF USING STANDARD HOTELS – PER PERSON

DATE 1 PAX 2-3 PAX 4-6 PAX
01ST MAY 2020 – 31ST OCT 2020 US $ 1100 US $ 675 US $ 625
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT - US $ 248 US $ 248

COST OF USING DELUXE HOTELS – PER PERSON

DATE 1 PAX 2-3 PAX 4-6 PAX
01ST MAY 2020 – 19TH JUL 2020 US $ 1330 US $ 760 US $ 725
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT - US $ 210 US $ 210
20TH JUL 2020 – 31ST AUG 2020 US $ 1485 US $ 910 US $ 835
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT US $ 260 US $ 260
01ST SEP 2020 - 31ST OCT 2020 US $ 1405 US $ 775 US $ 725
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT US $ 210 US $ 210

Supplements (Compulsory):

Deluxe Hotels:

Kandy Perahera Supplement: USD 60/- per room per night

Deluxe Hotels:

Kandy Perahera Supplement: USD 60/- per room per night

Above cost includes:

  • - Accommodation in selected set of hotels or in hotels of a similar standard.
  • - Meals on bed & breakfast basis
  • - Air conditioned transport with a services of an English speaking chauffeur guide
  • - Entrance fees to Medieval capital Anuradhapura, Temple in Mihintale, Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Ancient city of Polonnaruwa, Dambulla Cave Temple, Temple of tooth in Kandy, Cultural Show, Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage and Yala National Park.
  • - One Jeep safari to Yala National park
  • - Train ticket from Peradeniya to Nanu Oya (ticket class subject to availability / class only can confirm 02 weeks prior to journey day)
  • - All applicable current local taxes, but subject to change at the time of booking.

Above cost excludes

  • - Expenses of personal nature.
  • - Cost of beverages
  • - Porterage & Tips
  • - Excursions & detours beyond the itinerary
  • - Visa fee http://www.eta.gov.lk
  • - Compulsory Xmas & New year supplements.
  • - Compulsory Room Supplements on hotels in Kandy during the month of August
  • - Tickets for the Perehara cultural pageant that replaces the traditional cultural show in August

Notes

  • Please note that standard check-in time is 1400hrs and standard check-out time is 1200hrs.
  • This is only an offer without any obligation on the hotel rooms, until such time the tour is confirmed and availability is checked.
  • When making payment, kindly ensure that the entire amount given in our offer (finally in our invoice) is made without any deductions to us. All bank charges to be borne by remitter. As such total amount in our final invoice to be credited to our account without any deduction please. In the event of any deductions, such differences are to be collected in cash on arrival of the guests.
  • If payment is to be made via credit card, then a 2.75% to be added on top of the quote we made in our offer and represented in our final invoice for payment.

Good to know:

  • On Arrival at the Airport, you will first reach Immigration, then to collect your ‘checked-in’ baggage. Once you clear customs, our representative will page you and meet you just outside the arrival hall.
  • Sri Lanka being a tropical county, is hot and humid. Ideal clothing would be cotton and comfortable clothing, casual footwear or slippers and a wide brim hat. Please use suntan lotion, because the UV index is always high. Shorts and t-shirts are allowed in most settings, except when visiting temples and other religious establishments. Ladies are required to cover the shoulders as well, when visiting places of worship.
  • Temperatures throughout the year in lowland areas (sea level to 1500 feet amsl) range from an average of 25 degrees Celsius at night to 32 degrees Celsius during the day (the real feel temperature is almost always higher). In the hill country (above 1500 feet amsl) the average temperatures range from an average of 15 degrees Celsius at night to 22 degrees Celsius during the day. Please note that if you are travelling during winter, to the hill country, it is advisable to wear a light to medium jersey, as temperatures do on occasion dip to single figures.
  • Liquor will NOT be served on Poya days (Full moon day) and on any other Religious holidays.
  • All major credit cards are widely accepted in all reputable outlets (restaurants / shops etc.)
  • Tipping is customary, but not obligatory. But if you are keen to know what is acceptable in local terms, it ranges between US$5/- per day up to US$25/- per day depending on the level of satisfaction of your driver when it comes to individual / family travel. For group travel other than the guide, the coach crew is to be tipped too. The amount for a day can vary depending on group size, but the recommended amount is US$15/- to US$40/- per day.