DAY 3 - NEGOMBO - DAMBULLA

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today you start the journey travelling inland of the country. Transfer to the famous cultural triangle, the land of the ancient kings of Sri Lanka. 

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Here prepare for a soothing, yet exciting moment close to the nature and community as you head on a village experience tour. 

Commence a trek, or travel in a small local tractor on the village path that falls through cultivation land and jungle patches to reach a cave temple. 

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Here you will be welcomed by a monk who will engage in a conversation with you with the help of your guide. Then a session of “pirith” chanting and tying a “pirith” thread around your wrist invoking blessings and protection upon you. From here head down to the shore and board the catamaran for your ride across the lake. As you travel across, hear the songs of nature sung for you by the wind blowing.
 
Arrive at the other side and walk to the village house where your will be warmly greeted by a villager. Witness a chena cultivation and see some of the traditional methods of agriculture. Now begins an exciting moment as a village folk conducts a cookery demonstration especially for you. Learn how some of the local cuisines are made, how the produce is prepared and the spices are mixed and matched to achieve that perfect balance of flavour. You are encouraged to take part in this session and expand your culinary skills. 

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The time you were waiting for, a delicious local rice and curry lunch will be presented for you to enjoy in the authentic way. Combine the different curries and savour with the rice and eat to your hearts content. After a seasonal fruit will be served for you as dessert.

Thereafter bidding farewell to the villagers transfer back to the starting point in a tuk-tuk, a more modern and fun mode of transportation. 

Afterwards head to your 5* Heritance Kandalama hotel for check-in, and we allocate some time for you to refresh. 

Later in the evening head out to witness an attractive cultural show, depicting the different styles of dance special to the different areas of the island. See the talented and attractive dancers portray the rich heritage of the island through their rhythmic movements which will enchant you. This program will also bring to you the startling act of the fire breathers, so hold on to your seats! 

Are you interested to know more about these dances? Members of the dancing troupe will meet with you prior to the event to teach you some easy steps. 

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Fascinated by the show? As the program ends you will have the opportunity to join the dancing troupe for a session of photographs, a memory to make and not to be missed. 

Completing the event move to the tranquil garden area where the special welcome dinner would take place! Gather around, celebrate your arrival in Sri Lanka and looking forward for the tour you are going to embark on, we make arrangements for this special dinner for you to enjoy the night.

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 

DAY 4 - DAMBULLA - SIGIRIYA - POLONNARUWA
 

Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards prepare yourselves for a never before made experience to climb the majestic Sigiriya rock fortress! 

A resulted palace complex of a family feud in the ancient times which made Sigiriya the fortress in the skies. You can marvel each step you take from the entrance itself to the wonders this site beholds!

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On a lucky day you can still witness the water fountain system functioning in the water garden which is first. Then walk through the boulder garden to the terrace garden and do not miss to climb and witness the beautiful frescoes which are protected to this date. 

You then walk along the mirror wall, where you can see the interesting verses inscribed by visitors who arrived at the rock since long time ago. 

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Arrive at the magnificent lion paw, which will give you a glimpse of the wonders that are above. Take a minute to relax and capture few photos before heading to the top. When you reach the peak you will have a 360-degree view of the area where you will realize the splendour of scenery on top, of the lush greenery, the lakes with views as far as you can imagine. 

Also viewing the historical ruins on the peak, take a moment to imagine yourself as the mighty ruler of this Kingdom and feel like Royalty! 

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From here travel back in time as you head to explore the second ancient capital of the island, in the ancient kingdom of Polonnaruwa. 
The era of the Polonnaruwa kingdom is known as a golden era in the island. You will learn the history and importance it holds and how this once self-sufficient land gives lessons for life even today. The well preserved ruins will make you wonder the strength of the architects and the constructors back in the day, and the attention to detail of the craftsmanship will depict the massive talent which they held!

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Learn how foreign invasions influenced and changed the course of Sri Lankan citizens and how the land was won back. 

A timeless quote was made by an ancient ruler of this kingdom stating that “no drop of water falling from the heavens was to be wasted and each was to be used toward the development of the land”. See how the words were put in to action as this ruler constructed one of the largest lakes in the island.

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Take a moment to relax on the lake bund and refresh with some king coconut water before commencing the journey back.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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DAY 5 - DAMBULLA - MATALE - KANDY
 

Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards commence the transfer to the central parts of the island. 

First visit of the day will be to the Dambulla cave temple. A temple built in appreciation by an ancient king for providing shelter during his period of exile. This is identified to be the best preserved cave temple complex in the island. Head inside the many revered caves where you will enter into a phase of tranquillity and see the insights of a not so often found cave temple. The surrounding scenery from the top will also offer breath-taking views for you to take a moment and enjoy. 

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En-route, the next stop will be at a spice garden in Matale. Sri Lanka was historically attractive to the Western nations for its spice riches and the country is famous for a range of sought-after spices. Did you know, Sri Lanka produces arguably the best Cinnamon in the world? Learn more about how the produce is cultivated and processed to achieve its high quality, and only if interested you have the opportunity to purchase them as required. 

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Continue the journey to Kandy, and on arrival make way to explore the hill capital. 

Kandy, a city with great significance holds much importance for all Sri Lankans and foreign visitors alike. It was the last kingdom of the ancient kings of the island before it was finally ceded to the British. And being home to the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha, Kandy is an example of the Buddhism’s influence in Sri Lanka today. 

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Head on an interesting city tour and walk navigating together with your guide through the hustle and bustle of the busy streets. Travel to the various bazaars, mingle with the locals, experience local arts and crafts and enjoy some unique local food or drinks to keep you energized. The cool breeze that blows from the Kandy lake to the surroundings will create a refreshing climate making the experience that much nicer.

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The aptly named temple houses the most revered tooth relic of Lord Buddha. Since its arrival to the island in the ancient times, the relic had played an important role closely connected with the authority for Royalty.

The visit is scheduled to be in-line of witnessing the daily service taking place. These rituals are carried out in a similar form as dedicated to Lord Buddha back then. The sound of the drums beating will notify you the start of the service. 

Ending an active day, head to the 5* Golden Crown Hotel for check in and revitalize yourself preparing for the next day.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 

DAY 6 - KANDY - HEELOYA
 

Breakfast at the hotel. What could be better than an authentic and exclusive experience for you to enjoy together! No matter your age, prepare yourself for a fantastic time in the rural areas to experience Sri Lanka in its purest tranquillity and to experience the pristine landscape. 

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Your expert guide will meet with you at the trail head and guide you through the route. Falling through jungle patches, farmland, and uninhabited areas the village routes give you the opportunity to soak up the serene surroundings. As mentioned this will be a private experience just for you! 

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Why rush? Make the walk at a pace you can enjoy this experience to the fullest and rest stops will be allocated to refresh yourself. 

During this experience we will extend the special chance to enjoy the cool, crystal clear waters of the area with a bathing session in one of the natural streams, depending on the water levels and safety. 

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Then you arrive in the village, where you will be warmly welcomed. Interact with the villagers and learn about the simplicity of their life, how they live day to day and how the traditions are preserved in this rural village. 

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After joining with a family, you will be invited to a delicious lunch in the village! With the experience you have gained, you are more than welcome to help cook the meal. Enjoy the meal together and make another worthy memory of your tour. 

Spending some quality time here, towards evening we say goodbye to the villagers and start our journey back to the starting point in a local mode of transport. Head back to the hotel.

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Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
 

DAY 7 - KANDY - NUWARA ELIYA
 

Breakfast at the hotel. Thereafter start the day on a relaxed and laid back pace. 

The Peradeniya Royal Botanical Garden, a venue existing from the times of Royalty it was re-planned by the British to establish as a botanical garden. It offers a broad experience of the flora in and out of the island and estimates more than four thousand species of plants being exhibited.

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Leisurely stroll down the varied paths along the gardens and remember to make some memories in the picturesque locations. 

Thereafter a wonderful experience travelling on the rails in the hill country. Board the train for your journey to Nanu Oya. The train will follow a most scenic route to the destination and will offer you time to enjoy the highlights of the journey passing by some stunning scenery, travelling through the lush green carpets of the tea plantations and stopping at some of the colonial styled stations.

Arriving to Nanu Oya detrain and transfer by coach to Nuwara Eliya. Check-in at your 5* Golden Ridge hotel and we have allocated rest of the day to enjoy at leisure to admire and appreciate the wonderful mountainous environment.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 

DAY 8 - NUWARA ELIYA
 

Breakfast at the hotel. Thereafter head out to explore the colonial town of Nuwara Eliya and its scenic surroundings. 

When visiting the hill country of Sri Lanka there is something no visitor should miss and that is Ceylon Tea! Introduced by the British, this refreshing drink is now enjoyed by every local ranging from a labourer to a millionaire! And by countless tea lovers across the world! 

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You will have the opportunity to visit a tea plantation to see and learn how tea is grown and harvested. This will be followed by a factory visit to witness the production process. Interested to taste some pure Ceylon Tea? Of course you have the opportunity for this as well. 

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Known as ‘Little England’ the town lives up to its nickname offering a picture of a British suburb village. You will see the little cottages on the hills, colonial hotels and the racecourse etc. which have been erected during the British rule which stands proud to this day. 

In the evening we invite you to enjoy a delectable high-tea amidst this wonderful climate! There is nothing better than sipping a hot cup of Ceylon tea accompanied with some fresh snacks, as you relax towards an end of a day.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 9 - YALA / GALLE
 

Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards transfer from the mountains to the wilderness of the island visiting more highlights and stunning locations.

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Take a moment to explore the famous town of Ella. A small cozy town nestled among the hills is sure to captivate any visitor. With a laidback atmosphere Ella is an ideal location to relax, be close to nature or even engage in some adventure! 

Continue to the Diyaluma waterfall. Identified to be the second highest waterfall in the island, the name Diyaluma is believed to mean ‘rapid flow of water’. 

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But this is not where the visit ends, our journey is to the top! Make the calm but exciting hike to the top of the waterfall walking along the overgrown grass and the rustling of trees. The trail leading up which is free of human habitats offers a tranquil experience. 

And then! You will be at the peak of the waterfall. Your eyes open to a sort-of natural water park. Rock pools created by nature with the continuous flow of water offer the best experience you can have in these chilly waters! The trees will be generous to offer you their shade, so you have the perfect location to spend some time at depending on the water levels and safety! 

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Completing your time, commence the transfer to your 5* Jetwing Yala Hotel for check in and after an active day prepare for a relaxed overnight.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 

DAY 10 - YALA - GALLE - BERUWALA

 

With packed breakfast head out for an early morning experience. Board the jeeps for the safari in the Yala National Park. 

The most famous and the second largest national park in the country, Yala offers a great wildlife experience to its visitors. A park in the dry zone of the island, uniquely the park borders the ocean in one end and is bordered by other national parks from the other ends. 

Yala is also home to a vast range of animals with 44 species of mammals, 215 species of birds, 47 species of reptiles, 18 species of amphibians and 21 species of fish. The park is identified to be one of the best locations with a good ratio on sighting 3 species of the “Big Five of Sri Lanka”. The majestic Sri Lankan elephant, the fierce Sri Lankan leopard and the elusive Sri Lankan sloth bear! 

The land is also important in studying the ancient civilizations as it is believed this was home to a civilization of ancient people. But for a reason that is yet to be discovered the area was abandoned and was overrun by the wilderness.

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From here make the journey towards the southern coast. While travelling to the point of stay visit some of the highlights along the route.

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Witness the uncommon practice of fishing on a stick! There might be several methods of catching a fish but this one is mind-boggling. Stilt Fishing is an old tradition practiced by fishing families in south-western-most Sri Lanka.

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Then make a visit to the Galle Dutch fort, a world heritage site. Marvel in the massive stone fort which the history roots run deep and then has come to its present structure by the developments made by the invaders in the colonial era. Learn about the interesting facts hidden behind the stone walls, and how the fort shaped the cultural diversity of the area. 

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Rise up to the rampart and walk along the path gazing at the clear blue Indian ocean with magnificent views, a truly relaxing and reflective experience. 

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Transferring to Beruwala, check-in at your 5* Occidental Eden Beruwala hotel and take a moment to relax. Later in the afternoon head out to visit a turtle hatchery. 

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This wonderful marine species has found ideal conditions for laying eggs in certain areas of the south coast. Responsible groups have come into action and through these turtle hatcheries ensure majority of the turtle hatchlings sees the light of day.

While appreciating their efforts you can enjoy an up-close and personal experience with the turtles.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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DAY 11 - BERUWALA - COLOMBO - NEGOMBO

 

Breakfast at the hotel. Thereafter transfer to Colombo the location of final exploration in this amazing country. 

A modern city as it looks now, the history runs deep into the colonial era when the Portuguese arrived on the island. You will walk through some of the narrow streets busy of local folk, and also witness some of the buildings which have stood the test of time from the Dutch and British era!

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Another wonderful fact you will witness is the harmony among all faiths and beliefs of citizens, as you visit the tranquil Buddhist temple of Gangarama, the serene church of Wolvendaal, the vibrant red mosque in Pettah and the astonishing Hindu kovil built to worship Lord Muruga!

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On completion head to Negombo for check in at the 5* Heritance Negombo for your final overnight. The night becomes special! We have planned a special evening to celebrate your time here in Sri Lanka. Get in to the local mood and prepare to enjoy a truly Sri Lankan night!

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Gather as one group and celebrate the tour we all completed and recall the unforgettable memories made, the wonderful experiences gained! And so we end the final day of your stay in Sri Lanka.

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Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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DAY 12 - COLOMBO - MALDIVES

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Brakfast, and sadly, your time in Paradise ends today! Enjoy the breakfast laid for you before heading out to Colombo International Airport for your flight to the Maldives.

At this time, we hope you had a unique and enjoyable tour in Sri Lanka which will be an unforgettable experience in your life, and as we bid you farewell we hope to see you soon again in our Miracle Island! “Ayubowan” till we meet again!

Arrival in Maldives and transfer to your 5* Sheraton Maldives Full Moon Resort

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DAY 13/14/15 - MALDIVES

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Days at leisure to enjoy one of the optional excursions as follows:

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

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Optional Reef Snorkeling (1.5 hrs min 2 pax)
Daily snorkel trips to different reefs. Specializing in families and first time snorkelers, our crew will take you on a fun filled adventure.

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Optional Sunset Dolphin Cruise (1.5 hrs min 4 pax)
Experience the Sunset Dolphin Cruise on a Traditional Maldivian Dhoni. The cruise takes place near the Resort and on the way back, view a breathtaking sunset like no other.

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Optional Hand Line Fishing (2hrs min 6 pax)
We will provide everything from bait to lines. Experience the traditional way of fishing on a Dhoni with outstanding Maldivian hospitality.

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DAY 16 - MALDIVES - DUBAI

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Breakfast and day at leisure. Transfer to airport for your flight to Dubai. 

Upon arrival transfer to your 5* Kempinski The Boulevard.

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DAY 17 - DUBAI

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Breakfast and day at leisure.

PLATINUM HERITAGE DUBAI EXPLORE DUBAI’S BEST DESERT SAFARIS (Optional)
Today join our Tour Manager and Dubai’s Most Sustainable & Authentic Desert Safari
Embark on the most awarded desert safari in Dubai. Ideal for the whole family as this educational, yet fun desert safari is unique from others.

Be a part of history and experience the desert like never before. Your professional Conservation Guide will take you on a nature safari through the Dubai Desert Conservation Drive while telling you all about the desert fauna and flora and how the Bedouin used to survive. 

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What to Expect :
Take in a magnificent Arabian sunset while watching a spectacular falconry performance, this is the ideal opportunity for sunset selfies for your family album. 

Ease into the evening with a delicious Emirati dinner with shared starters and hearty mains. Indulge in aromatic shisha and be entertained with traditional performances like Yola and Drumming. The whole family can join in on the festivities as you get invited to partake in the drumming.

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Itinerary :
Pick-up from Dubai hotels between 02:00 PM and 04:30 PM, depending on the season. We will inform you of the exact pick-up time around noon on the day of your desert safari.
Arrive at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and receive your Headscarf and a Stainless Steel Water Bottle. These are included in each booking and are a gift for our guests to take home.
Embark on a 60-minute nature safari (choose between a Vintage Land Rover or Camel Caravan when booking).
Marvel at a spectacular sunset falcon show against an Arabian sunset backdrop.
Arrive at an authentic torch-lit Bedouin Camp and receive a warm Arabic welcoming with coffee and dates.
Enjoy live breadmaking, coffeemaking, camel rides and shisha.
Indulge in a four-course traditional dinner. View Menu.
Watch and partake in interactive Emirati performances like drumming and Yola.
Return to the hotel between 09:30 PM and 11:30 PM, depending on the season. Your total experience will last approximately seven hours.

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DAY 18 - DUBAI

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Breakfast

FAREWELL DINNER AT BICE MARE – SOUK AL BAHAR (Optional)
We cordially invite you to join the tour leader for our farewell dinner on our last night in Dubai.

BICE Mare, winner of What’s On Magazine’s Award in the Best Seafood Restaurant category for three consecutive years, offers a sophisticated fine dining experience. Nestled in the heart of downtown Dubai, it boasts Italian and seafood-inspired cuisine of the highest calibre.

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The restaurant’s remarkable terrace provides guests with breathtaking views of the iconic Burj Khalifa and the grand Dubai Mall fountain show, both during the day and at night. Under the expert guidance of the Executive Chef Oliver Ilagan and his talented team, every visit to BICE Mare promises an immersive and delightful dining experience. Which we trust will be the same for all the client on our group to enjoy.

We look forward to celebrating our time together with an unforgettable evening at BICE Mare.

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DAY 19 - DUBAI - MALTA

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Transfer to Dubai Airport for your flight to Malta.