Sri Lanka: The Spice Island
For a relatively small island, Sri Lanka has a remarkably strong cultural and geographical diversity. Set against a dramatic landscape, the quaint towns and villages in this jewel of the Indian Ocean enchant you with a bounty of archaeological and natural treasures. This unique journey takes you through the tea plantations in colonial hill stations, ancient ruins once lost to history and the palm-fringed beaches on the sparkling Indian Ocean.
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Colombo, embark on a scenic drive through the lush countryside to the hill station of Sigiriya, gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Lion’s Rock. Vil Uyana (Water Villa / Forest Villa) – 3-nights
The impregnable rock fortress of Sigiriya looms above the surrounding jungle like a guardian spirit. Halfway up to the imposing hilltop fortress, look for some magnificent etched 6th-century frescoes, which influenced Sri Lankan art for centuries. This afternoon, visit the medieval capital of Polonnaruwa with its monuments to Shiva and enchanting garden city. (B)
The sacred city of Anuradhapura flourished as Sri Lanka’s first capital for 1400 years beginning in the 4th-century BC. Lost to the encroaching jungle for hundreds of years, it was rediscovered by British explorers in the 19th century. Explore the site with your expert guide who illuminates the history and myth of this UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B)
Drive into the hills toward Kandy, visiting the Dambulla cave temple complex, which boasts stunning cave paintings (some from as early as the first century BC) and statues. This evening, enjoy a traditional Kandyan dance performance and visit the holy Temple of the Tooth. The Kandy House (Verandah Room) – 2-nights (B)
The hill station of Kandy has long been synonymous with luxuriant forests, cinnamon and nutmeg plantations. Take a tour of the sprawling 18th-century Royal Botanical Gardens. Also, visit the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage, which provides a natural habitat for nearly 100 elephants. Watch the majestic beasts eat, play and bathe on the riverbanks. (B)
Drive from Kandy to Hatton and your luxurious hideaway in Sri Lanka’s verdant hills. Stay in a restored, colonial-era bungalow in the heart of lush tea country. Settle in to your luxurious estate before embarking on a scenic train journey through the “Golden Valley of Tea.” Tea Trails (Bungalow) – 2-nights (B)
Discover the art and science of growing, harvesting and making some of the world’s finest teas. Follow the trails of the original planters as they trekked through the jungle in search of fertile land. Then learn from the master planter about caring for and harvesting the leaves and buds of the trees. And train your palate to discern the qualities that make this tea sought after the world over. (B)
Leave the hills to drive south along the coast to your picturesque and lush ocean side retreat. Nestled between two headlands on the sparkling Indian Ocean, your luxury resort boasts pristine beaches, water sports and a tranquil spa. Amanwella Resort (Ocean Suite) – 2-nights (B)
Relax and enjoy all the amenities of your own piece of paradise under the swaying palms. (B)
This morning, leave the beach and drive to the 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage fort in Galle. With your expert guide, explore this stunning example of military architecture impressively situated in the Bay of Galle. Amangalla Resort (Chambers Room) – 1-night (B)
This morning, leave the beach and drive to the 17th-century UNESCO World Heritage fort in Galle. With your expert guide, explore this stunning example of military architecture impressively situated in the Bay of Galle. Amangalla Resort (Chambers Room) – 1-night (B)
Transfer to the international airport for your flight back home. (B)
Extend Your Journey
Cocoa Island, Maldives
Soneva Fushi & Soneva Gili, Maldives
Anantara & Naladhu, Maldives
Alila Vilas Hadahaa, Maldives
Huvafen Fushi, Maldives
Shangri-La Vilingili, Maldives
W Retreat & Spa, Maldives
One & Only Reethi Rah, Maldives
Taj Exotica, Maldives
- Ascend to the magnificent rock fortress of Sigiriya
- Marvel at the first-century BC cave paintings in Dambulla
- Enjoy a traditional dance performance in the lovely hill station of Kandy
- Watch elephants eat, bathe and play at the Pinnawela Elephant Orphanage
- Learn the art of tea making while staying on a working tea plantation in Hatton
- Relax on the glorious white-sand beaches of your Indian Ocean retreat in Tangalle
12 DAYS & 11 NIGHTS
Colombo, Sigiriya, Kandy, Hatton, Tangalle & Galle
2012 Dates:
Jan - Apr
Prices From:
$6,755
Note:
Upon request, your travel consultant can provide an exact price based on your specific dates of travel.
Includes:
Best available hotels, breakfast daily except while at Aman hotels which have a room only board basis, all transfers, local guides for sightseeing. Private Journeys depart daily subject to availability.