Nature's Symphony

Day 1: Arrival – Colombo

Arrival in Sri Lanka. You will be warmly welcomed by your guide with the words “Ayubowan” which means may you attain a long life in Sinhalese the traditional language of the island, which is the traditional form of the greeting in Sri Lanka. After being escorted to your vehicle, Head towards Colombo where you will check into your hotel and spend the remainder of the day at leisure after a long flight. Suggested Accommodation – Cinnamon Red Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 2: Colombo

Today after breakfast, head out towards the busy streets of Pettah for a hosted walk through the open- air supermarkets of Colombo. Colombo is a cosmopolitan city that has been influenced by multiple cultures, faiths, and traditions over the years. Within the heart of Colombo lies Pettah, a nerve center that drives the city’s economy. We invite you to explore the open-air supermarket of Pettah, and learn about its history, its people and its evolution from a simple trading hub to the vibrant, busy, heartbeat of modern Colombo’s commerce. You will meet traders, learn about historic buildings and marvel at their architecture as you navigate a maze of trade, traffic, and local banter. After you exit Pettah you will take a short walk through the last remains of the colonial era Colombo Fort Wall and then explore a historic church erected during the Dutch colonial period. Once the tour is done, you can enjoy a cold pint of Lion Beer, Sri Lanka’s local brew. After a busy morning head back to your hotel during the heat of the afternoon for lunch and rest. By around 3.00 PM head back out, this time to the suburbs of Colombo to a traditional Angampora Martial Arts School. The island nation for thousands of years practiced a deadly form of martial art named Angampora. This visit is to a school that still practices this ancient art form to this day. This art has protected the island nation from invaders for generations, and it was only during the British rule of the island that this art was outlawed as it posed a threat to the British authority of the island. Any practitioners who were caught teaching or practicing the art were punished by being shot in the knees. Hence this art was taught in secrecy from father to son for generations. The master of the school will greet you and explain the history and traditions of this art. Thereafter, witness as the students begin their daily practices and training which includes feats of strength and agility. The students will also carry out an acrobatic fight performance using the array of weapons used by the practitioners of angampora. One can choose to participate in some of the exercises and self-defense teachings during this experience. Head back to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure Suggested Accommodation – Cinnamon Red Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 3: Colombo – Galle

Breakfast at the hotel. Head towards the Colonial city, Galle. Check in to the hotel. Thereafter, engage in a Galle Fort Walking Tour including a visit to the Dutch fort. The once sleepy Galle Fort is now a vibrant and bustling area with a distinctively Mediterranean feel to it with excellent examples of colonial architecture and well preserved fortifications. Explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site by taking a leisurely stroll along the Ramparts with its panoramic views. You can explore its narrow streets and laneways bustling with jewelry shops, numerous cafes, restaurants and luxurious villas. The Main Gate built by the British in the 19th century and the old gate which is inscribed with the Dutch East India Company’s coat of arms, the18th century built Clock Tower, Meeran Jumma Mosque and the nearby Lighthouse, the Anglican All Saints Church and the Dutch-reformed Church are some of the key sites that you will visit. Spend the rest of the day at leisure Suggested Accommodation – The Heritage Galle Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 4: Galle

Today after breakfast, engage in a Galle Village Cycling Tour. The South of Sri Lanka is diverse and is teeming with nature, beautiful landscapes, serene beaches, rich village life, and culture. The best way for you to witness these vibrant characteristics of the South is by bike. Whether you are on a roundtrip in Sri Lanka or visiting just to relax by the beaches, exploring the South by bike will give you a snapshot image to everything that is truly Sri Lankan. You will meet your cycling guide by a riverfront, where you will be served with king coconut and briefed on the journey ahead. Then we start the ride passing through contemporary to rural villages and through lush green paddy fields. On route, you will also witness some of the lifestyles of the South including coir processing, coconut, cinnamon, and tea plantations. At the end of the ride, you will be served cold cut fruits. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – The Heritage Galle Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 5: Galle – Mirissa

Breakfast at the hotel. Head towards Mirissa for your beach stay. Spend the rest of the day at leisure on the beach. Suggested Accommodation – Mandara Resort Mirissa Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 6: Mirissa

Early morning, take a packed breakfast travel to Mirissa Fisheries Harbour, and head out to sea to look for the largest animal that has ever lived the Blue Whale. Mirissa in southern Sri Lanka is regarded as the world’s top location for watching Blue Whales with sightings occurring on most mornings during the season which spans from November through to April. Pods of Spinner Dolphin are seen on most mornings while Bryde’s Whale, Sperm Whale, Orca, Risso’s Dolphin, Bottlenose Dolphin and Striped Dolphin are among the other species of cetaceans which are intermittently seen. Head back to your hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure on the beach Suggested Accommodation – Mandara Resort Mirissa Meals – Breakfast and Dinner

Day 7: Mirissa – Yala

Today after breakfast, head towards Yala. Check in to the hotel and relax. In the evening, engage on a game drive at Yala National Park. The Yala National Park is the country’s premier destination for wildlife viewing. Yala’s star attraction is undoubtedly the Leopard and Yala Block I is believed to have the highest concentration of these big cats in the world. Leopards however are elusive by nature and we recommend a minimum of three to four game drives to have the best opportunities for good encounters. It is also one of the few places in the country where the endangered shaggy coated Sloth Bear can be seen. Asian Elephants are also encountered; lone bull elephants, a few iconic tuskers and small herds of females and calves maybe seen. Jackal, Sambar, Spotted Deer Buffalo, Wildboar and the Grey Langur are among the other larger mammals that may be seen. During the dry season which spans from June – September, large concentrations of Mugger Crocodile are can be seen in the dwindling waterholes. Yala is also an excellent birding destination with close to 300 avian species recorded; Indian Peafowl and Sri Lanka Junglefowl, Changeable Hawk Eagle, Painted Stork, Malabar-pied Hornbills, Chestnut, Green and Blue-tailed Bee-eaters are among the species seen regularly. The varied landscapes from lagoons, beaches to rocky outcrops immersed among the scrub jungle are also a treat to the eye as you search out the park's wildlife. Suggested Accommodation – Kithala Resort & Spa Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 8: Yala

Morning packed breakfast and head on to Yala National Park for morning game drive. Thereafter, engage on 2nd game drive at Yala National Park. Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Kithala Resort & Spa Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 9: Yala – Ella

Breakfast at the hotel. Head towards Ella, trek up to Little Adams Peak and visit the legendary Nine Arch Bridge. Close to Ella is a mountain peak which is named Little Adams Peak, which is 1141 metres above sea level. A hike up to the peak of the mountain entails an interesting trek through paddy fields, tea plantations, waterfalls and amazing views. The famous Nine Arch Bridge, which is a beautiful example of English engineering and design and built entirely out of solid rocks, bricks and cement without the use of steel. The bridge was commissioned in 1921 and is still used to date by trains which travel from Kandy through to Ella Spend the rest of your day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Mountain Heavens Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 10: Ella

Today after breakfast, explore natural pools and pool bath in the Diyaluma waterfall. Diyaluma Waterfall in Sri Lanka is a gorgeous waterfall located in the Koslanda area of the Badulla District in the Uva Province of Sri Lanka. At 171 meters, it is the third tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. Experience one of the best of nature and adventure, trekking to the upper Diyaluma falls, the latest thrill of Sri Lanka. There are two trail routes which include one that comes to the top of the falls from above or from the base of the waterfall. Coming from above would require starting from Poonagala road, going downhill through tall grasslands with a faintly marked path. We have chosen that option to reach the upper Diyaluma. This hike would take approximately 45 minutes to reach the top of Diyaluma falls, where there are several natural rock pools towards the edge of the precipice. Once the falls reach the edge, it cascades into one last pool before gushing down 171 meters into the large base pool below. Head back to your hotel and Spend the rest of the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Mountain Heavens Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 11: Ella

Today after breakfast, trek to Bambarakanda Falls. Bambarakanda Falls is the tallest waterfall in Sri Lanka. With a height of 263 m, it ranks as the 461st highest waterfall in the world. Situated in Kalupahana in the Badulla District, this waterfall is 5 km away from the A4 Highway. The waterfall was formed by Kuda Oya, which is a tributary of the Walawe River. Head back to your hotel and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Mountain Heavens Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 12: Ella – Nuwara Eliya

After your breakfast, take a city tour around Sri Lanka's highest-located city including a visit to the Strawberry farm and Tea factory visit Situated in the central highlands of the island, Nuwara Eliya is also known as “Little England” due to the cold climate, endless gardens of flowers and strawberries along with vegetables, and colonial style buildings and holiday homes. The salubrious climes are a contrast from the humid heat in the lowlands.The breathtaking views of the valleys, and mountain ranges as well as the lush greenery make Nuwara Eliya on of the most visited places by local and foreign tourists alike.One of the picturesque attractions of the town is Lake Gregory, which is nestled at the bottom of a small hill. A leisurely walk around or boat ride in the lake are some of the popular activities at Lake Gregory. You also have the time to make an optional visit to the New Zealand Dairy Farm. Suggested Accommodation – Galway Heights Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 13: Nuwara Eliya – Horton Plains – Thotupala – Nuwara Eliya

Today, early morning by 5.15 AM depart with your guides to Horton Plains National Park. You will be taking a packed breakfast along as you go. Horton Plains is Sri Lanka’s highest elevated national park lying approximately 7,000 feet above sea level and comprises of cloud forests and open grassland. Make an early morning start with a packed breakfast to Horton Plains National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and take a guided walk along the nature trails to a viewpoint known as World’s End with spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. On the walk back you can stop over to see the impressive Baker’s Falls in full flow. Sambar, Sri Lanka’s largest species of deer are encountered regularly in the plains close to the entrance while the shaggy coated Bear Monkey (Highland race of the Purple-faced Leaf Monkey) is occasionally seen within the forested areas. You will traverse the 9 KM loop trail in the park which covers Mini Worlds End, World End viewpoints as well as Bakers Waterfall. Afterwards, climb Thotupola Kanda, Sri Lanka’s 3rd highest mountain. Head back to your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Galway Heights Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 14: Nuwara Eliya – Mahiyanganaya

After breakfast, head towards to Mahiyanganaya trek to Rathna Ella along with a visit to the Veddah performance. Mahiyangana is a sacred town which is believed to be the first of three places visited by the Buddha after he obtained enlightenment (Kelaniya and Nainativu being the other locations). The picturesque Rajamaha Dagoba which has a mountainous backdrop and is reached by a long walkway with mountains is believed to be where the Buddha preached during his first visit to the island. This temple complex was expanded by King Dutugemuni in the 2nd century BC and renovated further by King Voharika Tissa in the 3rd century AD as it was believed to enshrine a lock of the Buddha’s hair. The Sri Maha Bodhi Seya is a smaller temple complex in Mahiyanganna which was buult in the 1990’s and commissioned by President Premadasa to resemble the Mahabodhi Stupa at Bodh Gaya in India. Head back to your hotel and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Kevans Casa Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 15: Mahiyanganaya

After your breakfast, trek to Danigala. Hiking Danigala is one of the most thrilling adventurous experiences. Once you reach the top, the views are wondrous. Several viewpoints provide 360-degree sights on the low land planes in the north- central, Uva, and eastern provinces of Sri Lanka. You will admire the views of paddy fields, lakes, and some wonderful lowland attractions including forest reserves. Head back to your hotel and spend the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Kevans Casa Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 16: Mahiyanganaya – Kandy

After your breakfast, head towards Kandy. Proceed on a Kandy city tour including a visit to the Temple of the Sacred Tooth Relic and a colorful Cultural dance show. Locally referred to as Maha Nuwara, meaning The Great City, Kandy is the Hill Capital and one of the most scenic cities in the country. It is also home to one of the most revered places of the Buddhist community in Sri Lanka, and around the world. The sacred Tooth Relic of the Buddha, is housed in the temple, known as the Dalada Maligawa. Steeped in history and located at the foothills of the central highlands, the city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. Its not only its places of historical significance that make Kandy a popular tourist destination, but also the shops displaying precious and semi-precious stones, skillfully crafted jewellary, handicrafts, colorful batiks and silks Check into the hotel and spend the rest if your day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Thilanka Hotel Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 17: Kandy

Take a packed breakfast and head towards Hanthana to begin the 12 KM trek of Pekoe Trail Stage 1 which ends in Galaha. The Pekoe Trail is a 300-kilometer curated long-distance walking trail through the Central Highlands of Sri Lanka, one of Asia’s best-kept secrets. The 22-stage walking trip takes you through some of the finest ecology and mountain terrain in the South of Asia as you begin your journey in Kandy and make your way to Nuwara Eliya, passing through Haputale, Hatton, and Ella. The first of its kind and a bucket list experience of a lifetime, The Pekoe Trail takes trekking in Sri Lanka to new heights. The Pekoe Trail invites you to explore the best Sri Lanka has to offer in a more intimate, immersive, and sustainable way. Explore diverse ecosystems ranging from grasslands to tropical forests as you gaze across splendid mountain vistas and feel invigorated by the cool, crisp air of the hill country. The trail also allows you to encounter Sri Lanka’s rich heritage, intriguing history and unique culture as you traverse forests, plains, rural villages, and Ceylon Tea plantations. Check into the hotel and spend the rest of your day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Thilanka Hotel Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 18: Kandy – Habarana

After breakfast, head towards Habarana. Visit the Dambulla Cave Temples. Dambulla rock temple was built by king Walagambahu in the 1st century B.C. and is a UNESCO world heritage site. It is the most impressive of Sri Lanka’s many cave temples. The complex of five caves with over 2000 sq. meters of painted walls and ceilings is the largest area of paintings found in the world. It contains over 150 images of the Buddha of which the largest is the colossal figure carved out of granite rock and spanning 14 meters. Thereafter, visit to the icon of Sri Lanka, The Lions Rock. Climb the 5th century Sigiriya Rock fortress which is a UNESCO world heritage site, built by King Kashyapa (477-495). The spectacular citadel of Sigiriya rises sheer and impregnable out of the plains of the dry zone. It is the country’s most memorable single attraction, a remarkable archeological site made unforgettable by its dramatic setting. The rock was the innermost stronghold of a 70 hectare fortified town. A moat, rampart and extensive gardens including the renowned water gardens ring the base of the rock. Visit the world-renowned frescoes of the 'Heavenly Maidens' of Sigiriya, which are in a sheltered pocket of the rock approached by a spiral stairway. Check into the hotel and spend the rest of the day at leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Habarana Village by Cinnamon Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 19: Habarana – Polonnaruwa

After breakfast, head towards Polonnaruwa. Take a city tour around the ancient city of Polonnaruwa. Polonnaruwa took its place in history after King Vijayabahu I defeated the invading Cholas and moved the capital from Anuradhapura to Polonnaruwa. It is renowned for its well-preserved 12th-century ruins and impressive stone culture. Exploring Polonnaruwa, which is today a UNESCO World Heritage site, one can see Brahmanic monuments built by the Cholas and the monumental ruins of the fabulous garden city created by Parakramabahu I in the 12th century. Head back to your hotel and leisure. Suggested Accommodation – Habarana Village by Cinnamon Meals – Breakfast & Dinner

Day 20: Airport

After your breakfast, transfer to the airport to catch your departure flight back home.