Footsteps In Paradise
17 Day tour of Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka though a renowned leisure destination for its mesmeric hill country, exquisite beaches, and fascinating cultural attraction of ancient cities and shrines is not a destination that readily comes to mind for a golfing holiday. If you look up the Sri Lanka Map you will learn to your delightful surprise that you can easily fit in three fabulous golf courses of all Asia located at three elevations.
Highlights
- World Class – UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Last Kingdom – Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic & Kandyan Culture.
- Into the Wild – Safaris in Udawalawa & Galoya National Parks
- First People – Meet the indigenous tribesman of Sri Lanka, the Veddhas.
- Little England – Cold, Scenic Peaks and Cozy Little Towns of Ella & Nuwara Eliya
- On the Shores – Explore the Southern Coast of Sri Lanka.
Itinerary
Colombo - 1 Night
Day 01
Arrive at Colombo International Airport at Here, you will be met by a designated chauffeur guide from Lakpura.
Later in the afternoon go on a City and Shopping tour in Commercial City of Sri Lanka.
Experience the colorful lights and bright life of Colombo, the capital City of Sri Lanka. Visit historic monuments such as the Old Lighthouse, the Old Parliament, Galle Face Hotel, Galle Face Green, Gangarama Temple, the National Museum and more. Enjoy the malls of Independence Square or the Race Course. Visit boutique shops and designer stores.
On completion of the day check into the hotel and relax.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Hotel Sapphire
Standard Option (4 Star) – Zmax Fairway
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Cinnamon Grand
Anuradhapura - 1 Night
Day 02
After breakfast at the hotel check out, proceed to Anurdhapura and visit the ancient ruined city of Anuradhapura. (Travel Time: 3 ½ to 4 hrs)
The Ancient Ruined City of Anuradhapura
Walk through the ancient ruined city of Anuradhapura, which was the capital for over a millennium until the 10th century AD. View the pagodas, monastic buildings and ponds that are scatter all over the vast area. Visit important landmarks such as Jetavanarama, which was one of the tallest buildings of the ancient world, the Sri Maha Bodhi and the ruins of the huge Abhayagiri Monastery. Gain more knowledge about Sri Lanka’s history as you walk in the footsteps of Kings.
On completion of the day check into the hotel and relax.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Rajarata Hotel
Standard Option (4 Star) – Palm Garden Village Hotel
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Ulagalla Resort
Dambulla - 3 Nights
Day 03
After breakfast at the hotel proceed to Yapahuwa, which was one of the ephemeral capitals of medieval Sri Lanka. (Travel Time: 1 ½ to 2 hrs)
Visit the rock fortress of Yapahuwa where the seat of government was based in the 13th century. It also had its own Temple of the Tooth Relic where the relic was housed at that time. View the majestic entrance arch and ornamental stairway. Walk through the ruins of the temple at the summit or along the terraces. Enjoy the detailed sculptures scattered throughout the entire fortress.
Thereafter proceed to Dambulla and visit the Golden Temple of Dambulla. (Travel Time: 1 ½ to 2 hrs)
Enter the historic caves of the Golden Temple of Dambulla, dating back to the 1st century BC. View the ancient murals depicting the life story of Lord Gautama Buddha. Look at the hundreds of figurines of Buddha and other deities scattered throughout the five main caves. Visit the Cave of the Divine King, Cave of the Great King and the Great New Monastery. See the giant golden Buddha Statue just a little distance outside the cave complex.
On completion of the day check into the hotel and relax.
Day 04
After breakfast at your hotel, at approx. 8.00 AM, make your way to Sigiriya Rock Fortress, the Eighth Wonder of the World. (Travel time: 15 to 30 mins)
Climb the 5th century AD rock fortress, Sigiriya, where the King Kasyapa ruled. Walk through the entrance framed by the paws of a lion that is quite appropriate for its name, ‘The Lion Rock’. View the beautiful unfading murals that brought Sigiriya its fame. Climb the steep staircase to see the terraced gardens and still-working cisterns. Walk through the tunnels leading to the palace as you get a feel for times long past.
Thereafter do a Village tour in Sigiriya
After making your descent, proceed to a local village nearby and experience the world from the view of a villager. Enjoy a relaxing catamaran safari across a calm lake. Walk through the golden fields ripe with their harvest of paddy. Delight your taste buds with a home cooked lunch; made over a wood-fire and served on fragrant lotus leaves placed over woven trays. (Travel Time: 10 to 15 mins)
Thereafter, return to your hotel and relax. (Travel Time: 30 to 40 mins)
Day 05
After breakfast at your hotel, make your way to the ancient capital of Sri Lanka, Polonnaruwa, one of Sri Lanka’s ancient capitals. The land is rich with history and culture and an important part of the cultural triangle. (Travel Time: 2 to 2 ½ hrs)
Polonnaruwa, Kings ruled the central plains of Sri Lanka from Polonnaruwa 800 years ago, when it was a thriving commercial and religious centre. From here, free-marketeers haggled for rare goods and the pious prayed at any one of its numerous temples. The glories of that age can be found in archaeological treasures which give a pretty good idea of how the city looked in its heyday.
Thereafter proceed to Minneriya go on a lovely safari in Minneriya National Park. (Travel Time: 30 to 40 mins)
This three-hour safari takes you on a ride through the Minneriya National Park. Enjoy the sight of over 150 elephants congregating in one place during the famous Great Elephant Gathering, which happens in the dry season between May to October. In addition to elephants, get a chance to also see many mammals, birds, reptiles and amphibians in the scrublands, forests and other areas.
On completion return back to the hotel for relaxation.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Fresco Water Villa
Standard Option (4 Star) – Cinnamon Lodge
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Heritance Kandalama
Kandy - 3 Nights
Day 06
After breakfast at the hotel, check out and proceed to Kandy, en-route make a pause at Matale, visit a Spice Garden and do a guided tour of a spice and herbal garden, where you learn about spices, such as coriander, chili, cinnamon, cardamom, and nutmeg; and their uses. (Travel Time: 1 to 1 ½ hrs)
Euphoria Spice and Herbal is located 12 km away from Matale (The spice capital of Sri Lanka). Enriched with herbs, spice groves and plants with fragrant greenery shading from the tropical trees that enlightens the unique aroma of each spice and herb. We give the opportunity for our visitors to explore and gain knowledge on Sri Lankan spices, herbs and the benefits of Ayurveda. The tropical climate in which our plants and herbs are grown helps them preserve its ancient originality. The educational tour around the garden, which we call “The Spice Tour”, let the visitors feel the sensation of the Sri Lankan spices and herbs which is demonstrated in different foreign languages to suit our customer need.
Thereafter continue to Kandy and check in to the hotel and relax. (Travel Time: 1 ½ to 2 hrs)
Later on visit the Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya. (Travel Time: 20 to 30 mins)
Visit the famous Royal Botanical Gardens of Peradeniya, which were formed in the early 19th century. Walk through the vast area containing over 4000 species of plants. Enjoy the learning more about the orchids, spices and medicinal plants. Wander down avenues shaded by large and rare trees, or bordered by flowering plants. Enjoy seeing the cannonball tree, walking over the wobbly suspension bridge and through the short hedge mazes or even climbing the twisty trees that make wonderful jungle gyms.
On completion of the day return back to the hotel and relax.
Day 07
After a relaxed morning and afternoon at the villa, go on a tour around the Kandy city.
Kandy was the last capital of the Sinhala Kings, and is the islands cultural centre. It was Sri Lanka’s capital until the British took control in 1815 and due to its significant association with Buddhism; UNESCO has now made the Sacred City of Kandy a UNESCO World Heritage site. The ancient kingdom of Kandy is also home to Edwardian buildings, a king-made lake, a nature reserve and exciting shops. As the second largest city of the island and the capital of the Central Province, Kandy has grown from being a medieval kingdom to a friendly, busy city set in forested hills and surrounded by tea plantations and close to the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya. Take a tour around this bustling city including stops at the local markets and architectural marvels.
During your sightseeing tour, visit the Temple of the Tooth Relic.
The Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic is a UNESCO World Heritage Site which was built in the 16th century as the place of veneration and protection for Lord Buddha’s sacred tooth. Walk through the beautifully embellished passageways and elaborately painted halls, done in red, cream and black. Lounge against delicately carved pillars and get amazed by the beautiful golden statues. Get an unforgettable experience of history and art.
Later, experience the glorious Sri Lankan Cultural Dance show.
The Kandy Cultural Show gives an opportunity to experience some of the traditions of Sri Lanka. Enjoy this hour long extravaganza as some of the most popular art forms of the island take to the stage. Get wowed by fire dancers and sword dancers. Watch the colorful Kandyan dancers take to the air to the thrumming primal beat of the drums.
Upon completion return to the hotel and relax.
Day 08
After breakfast, visit the Millennium Elephant Foundation in Pinnawala. (Travel Time: 2 to 2 ½ hrs)
Millennium Elephant Foundation
The Millennium Elephant Foundation (MEF) is a family run non-government organization (NGO) dedicated to improving the welfare of domestic elephants throughout Sri Lanka. The Foundation provide and fund the care, medical treatments, food, mahout salaries, the running costs of the charity as well as having an on call Mobile Veterinary Unit which travels around the country treating sick elephants in need. The Elephant Walk Experience is another alternative to elephant riding for tourists, which is an ethical, up close and personal experience for tourists.
On completion of the day return back to the hotel and relax.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Oakray Regency
Standard Option (4 Star) – Cinnamon Citadel
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Earl’s Regency
Galoya - 2 Nights
Day 09
After breakfast check out of the hotel and proceed to Gal Oya. (Travel Time: 3 to 3 ½ hrs)
After check-in to the hotel and take lunch, visit the Veddah Village that evening.
Gal Oya Lodge neighbours one of the last remaining communities of the Veddha – the forest-dwelling, indigenous people of Sri Lanka. We can invite the village Chief to take you on a walk through the jungles of his ancestors. Discover and learn about local nature as he brings the forest alive, explaining his tribe’s use of medicinal plants, ancient hunting grounds and cave dwellings. It’s a fascinating insight into how the hunter-gatherers lived in the jungles of Gal Oya.
After visiting the Veddah Village, proceed back to Gal Oya, (Travel Time: 1 to 1 ½ hrs)
Day 10
Wake up before the crack of dawn, at around five am. Sip a quick tea / coffee and embark on an early morning safari in Gal Oya National Park.
The drive takes you past small village lands where locals are beginning to rise, and after a brief time you come to a very inconspicuous road that guides you down into the buffer zone of the park. You arrive at the Wildlife Department’s base and collect one of their officers to accompany the safari, and then enter Gal Oya National Park.
Relax that noon and later in the evening, go on a Boat Safari on Sri Lanka’s largest lake.
Boat Safari on Sri Lanka’s largest lake
Enjoy the only experience in Sri Lanka that allows you to spot wildlife from the water. It’s a unique way to immerse yourself in the animals’ habitats. With a little luck you could spot elephants swimming between islands or bathing at the lake’s edge. A 2-3 hour safari by boat, and a scenic 40 minute drive from the lodge to the lake is perfect to explore the national park and surrounding villages.
Return back to the lodge.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Gal Oya Lodge
Standard Option (4 Star) – Gal Oya Lodge
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Gal Oya Lodge
Nuwara Eliya - 1 Night
Day 11
Early in the morning prior to breakfast go on a trek to the Monkey Mountain.
For the intrepid ones, a 2-hour uphill trek first thing in the morning to the top of the cliffs facing the lodge is rewarded with stunning 180 degrees’ views over the large forested valley we are in. If you set off early enough you can watch the sun rise over the hills in the distance and observe the seemingly never-ending jungle canopy below. Return for a well-earned breakfast and enjoy the view looking back up what you just climbed.
On return, check out and proceed to Nuwara Eliya and check in to the hotel and relax. (Travel Time: 3 ½ to 4 hrs) Later that evening go on a lovely city tour around 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 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.
On completion of the day return back to the hotel.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Summer Hill Breeze
Standard Option (4 Star) – Jetwing St.Andrews
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Heritance Tea Factory
Ella - 1 Night
Day 12
After breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to Ella and go on a lovely city tour around Ella. (Travel Time: 1 to 2 hrs)
Explore the city of Ella and its most interesting places. Pass through bright green tea fields, and tough stretches of rock, and get to see the magical views of Little Adam’s Peak. Walk over the history seeped Nine Arches Bridge and listen to the story of its construction. End your hike at the Demodara Railway station with its unique loop-over track design. This tour gives you the chance to see the best sights of Sri Lanka
On completion of the day check into the hotel and relax.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – 9 Arch
Standard Option (4 Star) – Ella Jungle Resort
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – 98 Acres Resort
Udawalawe - 1 Night
Day 13
After breakfast at the hotel proceed to Udawalawe and go on a lovely evening safari in Udawalawe. (Travel Time: 2 to 3 hrs)
Enjoy a three-hour safari which would give you a chance to explore the amazing Udawalawe National Park. Travel through the marshes, forests and grasslands of the park that was created as a sanctuary for wildlife in the 1970s. See the water birds and Sri Lankan elephants for which the park is famed. Catch glimpses of the other mammals and birds, as well as the reptiles, amphibians and butterflies.
On completion of the day check into the hotel for relaxation.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Kalu’s Hideaway
Standard Option (4 Star) – Centauria Wild
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Grand Udawalawe Safari
Galle - 3 Nights
Day 14
After breakfast check out from the hotel and proceed to Galle, check into the hotel and relax. (Travel Time: 3 to 3 ½ hrs)
Later, visit the Colonial City of Galle.
Galle is a historical jewel to Sri Lanka wonderful to explore on foot. Among the endlessly exotic old trading port blessed with imposing Dutch-colonial buildings, ancient mosques and churches, grand mansions and museums the ancient Dutch fort which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site attracts the hearts of many travelers. Stroll around the ancient city where you will find a gourmet of fancy restaurants and coffee shops to chill and relax. The beach side is surely a bliss which will make you want to lock yourself up in this sun kissed island and indulge in the sea breeze and endless blue waters.
On completion return back to the hotel and relax.
Day 15
After breakfast visit Balapitiya go on a lovely boat safari in Madu river and visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery. (Travel time: 50 to 60 mins)
Go on a wonderful two-hour boat ride down the Madu River with its flourishing ecosystem. Pass through the secretive passages created by the mangroves. See the basking crocodiles and water monitors. Visit one of the small islands with its cinnamon harvesting natives. Enjoy the restorative qualities of the famous fish massage. Observe the waterbirds in their natural habitats.
Visit the Kosgoda Turtle Hatchery on the Southwestern coast of Sri Lanka. Learn more about the five endangered sea turtle species that come to the shores of Sri Lanka to nest. Learn how the Kosgoda Turtle Care Program helps protect the nests until they hatch and increases the chances of survival for the babies. Get a chance to see, touch and feed baby turtles; or even injured adult turtles that the Turtle Hatchery cares for.
On completion of the day return back to the hotel and relax.
Day 16
Spend the leisurely at the hotel/beach.
Overnight Stay
Economy Option (3 Star) – Amor Villa
Standard Option (4 Star) – Cantaloupe Levels
Luxury Option (5 Star & Boutique) – Jetwing Lighthouse
Departure
Day 17
After breakfast at the hotel on your final day, proceed to the Colombo International Airport (CMB) and get ready for your departure after spending a memorable time on the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
Price Starting From:
USD 2045 Per Person
When to go on this trip?
The best time of the year you can enjoy this trip is from December to May. Calm south coast beaches, cool and sunny climate and green sceneries that blend perfectly with the locations you are traveling to.
When to book
We recommend that you book this tour at least 6 months ahead.
What add-ons are available for this trip?
We can arrange for just about any add-on’s on this trip. Discuss with our travel expert to help you decide.
Our Experts are ready to help
For more information or to book this wonderful tour please email our travel experts.
Hotel Timing
Standard Check in time : 1400 hrs.
Standard Check out time : 1200 hrs.
The above may differ from hotel to hotel. Speak to your travel expert for more details.
We are able to arrange early check-in and late check-outs depending on the hotels you choose. However, you may be subject to additional charges.
Booking Process
After deciding on which trip you want to go, send us an inquiry with the requested details. If you want to further customize this trip, our travel experts would be glad to help perfect the tour itinerary for you. Once all planning is final, the next step is starting the booking process. We request for a 20% deposit to confirm the booking. On receipt of the deposit, our team will start booking your hotels and the vehicles that were agreed upon. The balance 80% payment can be made 30 to 45 days prior to the date of arrival. For cancellation and refund policies please take a look at the terms & conditions.
Price
The price quoted is valid till April 2018. Will be subject to seasonal supplements. Speak to your travel expert to learn more details.
Packing Essentials
When packing for Sri Lanka, you only need to remember that this is a tropical country. Sunny weather & warm water. Hence, packing thin cotton clothing is essential. However, if your stay includes places like Kandy, Nuwara Eliya & Ella, we recommend that you pack a few sweaters just in case. You must not forget the following:
- Effective mosquito repellent.
- A good sunscreen.
- (Ladies) Tampons – Nearly impossible to find outside Colombo.
- Universal power adapter.
Travel Insurance
We recommend that you purchase travel insurance before you travel.
VISA
Visa can be obtained online via www.eta.gov.lk. You can obtain Visa on arrival as well, however, this option is not available for some countries. Do read more on this topic here.
Travel Information
Sri Lanka is a developing nation. Yet, there are many things you must look out for during your travel. For example; when visiting religious sites, it is important that you dress to cover. All key information you need to know before traveling is right here.