Compare Bliss of Sri Lanka by Direct Traveller vs Classical Sri Lanka - Small Group, 2022 2023 Small Group by Insight Vacations

Day 1:

Accommodation: Heritance Negombo.

You will be met and assisted on arrival at the Bandaranaike International Airport in Sri Lanka, by Direct Traveller representatives and then introduced to your English speaking chauffeur guide. Transfer from Airport to Negombo (approx. 30 minutes)

(One night stay in a Standard room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 2:

Meals: Breakfast at Heritance Negombo Hotel

Accommodation: Aliya Resort & Spa

Transfer from Negombo to Anuradhapura (approx. 4 hours)Anuradhapura holds the distinction of being the third capital (after Tambapanni and Upatissa Nuwara) and the greatest city in the history of Sri Lanka. This glorious city is also one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world and one of the eight World Heritage Sites of Sri Lanka. The Sri Maha Bodhi (Sacred Bo Tree), which is over 2200 years old, was brought here as a sapling (from the tree under which Prince Siddhartha attained enlightenment). This tree is the oldest historically documented tree in the world. To add to this glory, the famous dagoba in Sri Lanka, Ruwanweliseya (2nd century BC) and The Brazen Palace too are found in Anuradhapura. Other major attractions include the Samadhi Buddha statue and the Isurumuniya Rock Temple (3rd Century BC), which is famous for its rock carvings.Transfer from Anuradhapura to Sigiriya (approx. 2 hours)

Overnight Stay at (Three nights stay in a Deluxe room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 3:

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Aliya Resort & Spa

After breakfast at Aliya Resort & Spa this morning you head to world heritage site Polonnaruwa. (approx. 1 hour & 15 minutes)Polonnaruwa became capital of Sir Lanka following the decline of Anuradhapura. It was declared a capital by King Vijayabahu the 1st who defeated the Chola invaders in 1070.  The golden age of this glorious city was under the reign of King Parakramabahu the 1st who oversaw the construction of one of the greatest irrigation systems the country has seen, the Parakrama Samudhraya, which covers an area of 6,000 acres. The ruins of the Royal Palace and various buildings and structures can be seen even today. Other highlight of this city is the Gal Viharaya which has 3 splendid statues of the Buddha in 'Upright', 'Sedentary' and 'Recumbent' postures carved out of rock, the Audience Hall, the Lotus Bath, the statue of King Parakramabahu, the former Temple of Tooth Relic, Shivan Temple, Lankathilake, Watadage, Galpotha, and Kiri Viharaya.Transfer from Polonnaruwa to Minneriya (approx. 30 minutes)Spanning over 8,800 hectares, the Minneriya National Park is located alongside the vast, renovated Minneriya Rainwater Reservoir. As a part of the corridor which joins Kaudulla and Wasgomuwa parks, Minneriya offers an amazing sightseeing experience where one may see herds of elephants throughout the year. In October, you will witness the famous gathering of the wild elephants which is the largest known meeting place of wild elephants in the world. The park is also home to about 160 species of birds, 9 amphibians, 25 reptile species, 26 fish species and more than 78 butterfly species.Transfer from Minneriya to Sigiriya (approx. 45 minutes)

Day 4:

Accommodation: Aliya Resort & Spa

Following the breakfast at Aliya Resort & Spa, you will get an opportunity to climb 5th century rock citadel, now a listed UNESCO World Heritage site. Sigiriya Rock Fortress, Sri Lanka's most popular historic site, Sigiriya is 200 meters citadel was home to his palace on top of the rock and derives its name as it appears to resemble the outline of a lion from distance. King Kasyapa built his palace and decorated its walls with colorful frescoes which can even be seen today. These frescoes, along with India¿s Ajantha cave frescoes are world renowned for lasting through the ages and their awe-inspiring beauty. When you climb along the side of the rock, about halfway up, you will encounter a gateway that although in ruins, resembles a gigantic lions paw.

Day 5:

Meals: Breakfast at Aliya Resort & Spa

Accommodation: Earl's Regency Hotel.

And then a transfer from Sigiriya to Dambulla (approx. 30 minutes)The Dambulla Cave Temple, also known as Jambukola Viharaya is a World Heritage Site and is the largest, preserved cave temple complex in the country. It is believed that King Valahambahu converted these caves into a temple during the 1st century BC. Although there are more than 80 documented caves in the area, the temple itself is spread over five. These caves contain statues and paintings that chronicle Lord Buddha and his life. There are 153 Lord Buddha statues, 3 statues of Sri Lankan Kings and 4 statues of Gods and goddesses found here. The latter include those of Hindu Gods Vishnu and Ganesh. The murals cover over 2,000 square metres in area. The largest image of Lord Buddha is a carving that spans over 14 metres. Transfer from Dambulla to Matale (approx. 1 hour)Matale, known for its welcoming climate is world famous for its spice gardens.  Here one may experience the intricate processes that result in Sri Lanka producing some of the best spices in the world. What¿s more, a cookery demonstration too will be held allowing visitors to learn to prepare traditional curries using local spices. Transfer from Matale to Kandy (approx. 1 hour & 30 minutes)

 (Two nights stay in a Deluxe room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 6:

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: Earl's Regency Hotel

And then a transfer from Kandy to Pinnawala (approx. 2 hours)The Pinnawala Elephant Orphanage provides visitors with the best chance of seeing a large number of elephants at close quarters. The orphanage was established in 1975 and commenced with seven orphaned elephants. Today some of these orphans enjoy the fortune of seeing their calfs born in the same location. Assisted by local and foreign elephant experts, Pinnawala commenced a successful captive breeding programme and the first baby elephant was born in 1984. It is most interesting to visit at feeding time to see the baby elephants being bottle fed and the entire herd taken for a bath thereafter to the river nearby. Transfer from Pinnawala to Kandy. Do a city tour in this afternoon.The World Heritage Site, Kandy, was the last capital of the Sri Lankan Kings, before the country was brought under British rule in 1815. Famous for its rich heritage and splendour, this magnificent city was last ruled by Sri Wickramarajasinghe. The Temple of the Tooth Relic is the most significant highlight of the city along with the Kandy lake, the town and other attractions. Visit the Kandy Town and Bazaar, the arts & crafts centre and a gem museum and a lapidary. In the evening, visit the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and thereafter, witness a cultural show featuring traditional Sri Lankan dance.

Day 7:

Meals: Breakfast at Earl's Regency Hotel

Accommodation: Jetwing Yala

Transfer from Kandy to Nuwara Eliya, en-route you will visit a Tea Planation (approx. 3 hours)Visit a tea plantation and a tea factory, where the best tea in the world is produced. Upon your visit you will observe how the quality of tea is graded and also have a walk-through of the manufacturing process. The highlight of your visit will be enjoying the taste of a cup of pure Ceylon tea in the factory. Overnight Stay at Grand Hotel

(One night stay in a Deluxe room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 8:

Meals: Breakfast at Grand Hotel

And then a transfer from Nuwara Eliya to Udawalawe (approx. 5 hours)The park is adjacent to the Udawalawe reservoir and Walawe river. The region is surrounded by the scenic beauty of the mountain range that wind endlessly on the Balangoda, Kalthota and Haputale escarpments. Spread over 30,821 hectares, the Park has an annual rainfall of 1,524 mm and an average year-round temperature of 29.4 C.  The Udawalawe National Park is famous for its many herds of elephants which can be observed in their natural habitats. You will see the spotted deer, sambur, barking deer, water buffalo and jackal which are also inhabitants of the park.Later on you will visit the Elephant Transit Home which is a facility within Udawalawe National Park in Sri Lanka that was established in 1995 by the Sri Lanka Department of Wildlife Consevation. Its primary objective is to rehabilitate orphaned elephant calves for ultimate release back into the wild.Transfer from Udawalawe to Yala (approx. 2 hours)

 (Two nights stay in a Superior room on bed breakfast basis)

Day 9:

Accommodation: Jetwing Yala.

Early this morning you will proceed on a game drive of Yala National Park by jeep(You will have the option of either taking a long a picnic breakfast provided by the hotel or having a late breakfast back at the hotel).Do a jeep safari of Yala National Park which is undoubtedly the largest and most popular in Sri Lanka. It consists of five blocks, all of which are at present open to the public. Block 1, Ruhuna is the most visited of the five. Visitors can expect to see wild elephants, wild boars, wild buffaloes, leopards, bears, deer and crocodiles.  Large flocks of migratory and indigenous birds are also found here. Thereafter you will return to the hotel and be at leisure, relaxing by the pool and later this afternoon proceeds on another game drive of Yala National Park.

Day 10:

Meals: Breakfast at Jetwing Yala

Accommodation: Ramada Colombo

And then transfer from Yala to Colombo. Overnight Stay at Ramada Colombo

(One night stay in a Standard room on bed breakfast basis)DAY 11:   This day you will proceed to the Airport in time to connect with your departure flight or transfer to a beach resort can be organised.

Day 1: Welcome to Sri Lanka

Welcome to Sri Lanka. A land of historic ruins, sweeping beaches and mouth-watering food, you’ve made it to paradise. On arrival, you’ll be picked up and transferred to your hotel, the Taj Samudra, Colombo. A contemporary, luxury build situated on the seafront, it provides an idyllic ambience at sunset. Unwind and rejuvenate before meeting your fellow travellers and Travel Director at 19:00, for a Welcome Dinner with drinks.

Day 2: Explore Colombo

There’s no better way to get to know a city than to walk through its back streets and experience it like a local. In the morning, head on a leisurely walking tour of Colombo with Mark Forbes, a photographer and wildlife enthusiast, and discover the city's hidden treasures. Journey through a myriad of buildings that date back from 17th century and were erected mostly during Dutch and British rule. Visit Pettah Market, where locals head to pick up fresh fruit and vegetables, garments and jewellery. This market place is older than the buildings around it and an area best explored with a local. Later, board your customised tuk-tuk and head out to explore the hustle and bustle of an afternoon in Colombo's oldest neighbourhoods. Cruise the city streets as the sun descends over the Indian Ocean and the city lights spring to life around a pulse of evening activity.

Day 3: Welcome to the Jungle Relaxed Start

After breakfast, begin your journey to Wilpattu National Park. A unique complex of over fifty wetlands and gravel roads that trace watering holes, the perfect place to observe wildlife. On arrival, check into your luxury safari camp located on the boarder of the park, a quintessential glamping experience and a satisfying blend of comfort and nature. Enjoy relaxing in your spacious living room, with views of the lush, green jungle just steps away. In the evening, venture deep into the thick wilderness. Explore the park by jeep safari, taking the back roads in search for Sri Lanka's big four—leopards, elephants, sloth bears and deer.

Day 4: Jungle Safari

Enjoy journeying through the jungle on your morning and afternoon safaris. Keep your eyes peeled for crocodiles, buffalos, mongooese and turtles.

Day 5: Wilpattu to Sigiriya

In the morning head south, making your way to Sigiriya. Stop on your journey at the Anuradhapura temple complex, one of the ancient capitals of Sri Lanka, sprawling and with a rich collection of archaeological wonders. Now a World Heritage site, you’ll have the opportunity to explore its ancient ruins with your Travel Director. Meet a practicing Buddhist and embark on a guided walking tour of the Ritigala jungle’s enveloped paths. Hear the tales and secrets of the forest dwelling monks that once inhabited the reserve. Begin your gradual ascent, making your way through seemingly endless paths and flights of carved stairs. This was once a place of meditation, congregation, teaching and general life for a monastic community who today devote their lives to simple living in the forest.

Day 6: Exploring Sigiriya's Ancient Kingdom

Surrounded by the remains of an extensive network of gardens and reservoirs, Sigiriya is steeped in history. Explore Sigiriya with Insight Choice. Choose to climb Sigiriya Rock.  Alternatively, visit Sigiriya Botanical Gardens. Later, visit the historic city of Polonnaruwa, the second most ancient of Sri Lanka's kingdoms. During a tuk-tuk ride, explore the ancient remains of temples and tombs. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site for yourself before heading back to your hotel.

Day 7: Colourful Caves and Rainforests

Today you’ll visit the colourful Dambulla Caves. Also known as the Golden Temple caves, this World Heritage Site is the largest and best-preserved cave temple complex in Sri Lanka. Take in its mighty artwork dedicated to Gautama Buddha as you explore with your group. S Stop at Tamarind Gardens for a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience. This local farm has been working to supply community members with access to clean water, nutritional food, and supports the village towards a sustainable future. Later, arrive in Kandy. Surrounded by mountains, rainforest and tea plantations, this sacred city if famous for its Buddhist sites, such as the Temple of the Tooth shrine. Once here you’ll enjoy a cultural evening of drums and a dance performance. Your accommodation for the evening is, Mahaweli Reach. Located next to the mighty Mahaweli River, this traditional hotel is based in the hill capital of Sri Lanka and offers incredible culture, history and authentic dining options.

Day 8: Tea Country Hills Relaxed Start

In the morning head to the Sacred Tooth Relic. Located in the royal palace complex of the former Kingdom of Kandy, Sri Lanka’s most important Buddhist relic, a tooth of Buddha is located here.Later meet Rahju, a local artist, at his contemporary art gallery. Enjoy a private viewing of his magnificent paintings and discuss his unique perspectives on life over a cup of tea. Continue to Nuwara Eliya. A city in Sri Lanka’s tea country hills, this pretty destination is famous for Seetha Amman Temple, a Hindu shrine and Galway’s Land National Park. In the evening, participate in a cooking demonstration. Learn to cook Sri Lankan and South Indian cuisine with a local chef, before indulging in the fruits of your hard work.

Day 9: Exploring Nuwara Eliya

Rise early this morning for an excursion to Horton Plains for a trek to World's End, where a stunning escarpment that plunges 880 metres down to the jungle floor. World’s End is situated in one of the most popular National Parks in Sri Lanka and is the only one where you can are able walk freely as there are no elephants. Stand in awe and capture incredible views of the expansive plateau, before mist and cloud obscure the scene. In the afternoon, learn everything there is to know about Ceylon tea during a visit to a tea plantation and garden. Walk through the plantation during plucking time and spend time with a tea plucker to learn about their life, before enjoying a tasting session hosted by an expert. In the evening, toast to your travels with your new friends over a Celebration Dinner at your hotel.

Day 10: Goodbye Colombo

It’s time to say goodbye to your fellow travellers, as your journey comes to an end. You’ll be driven back to Colombo airport for your onward flight. A stop will be made in Colombo for those extending their stay.