Rich and Spicy

Your Tour

DAY 01

When you arrive at Colombo Bandaranaike International Airport, you will be greeted by your driver guide. You will be able to relax in air conditioned comfort as you take the journey to your first Hotel in Minuangoda, a mere twenty minute drive from the airport. Check in at the Walauwa Hotel and spend the rest of the day 'acclimatising' by the pool and enjoying your first tastes of Sri Lankan cuisine in boutique luxury.

DAY 02

Your journey really gets going as you take the comfortable car journey to your next hotel, the five star rated Vil Uyana. Winner of Traveller's choice 2013, this haven is set within acres of wetland and paddy fields playing host to a rich bio-diversity of wildlife. Visiting the ancient Dambulla Rock Temples en route will mean that you have the rest of the day to enjoy the peaceful beauty and comforts of the hotel and pool.

DAY 03

There will be opportunity to explore more astonishing elements of Sri Lanka's cultural triangle today. You will start with a visit to Polonnaruwa, the medieval capital of Sri Lanka. Prepare to be amazed as you climb the ancient rock temple at Sigiriya and take in the wondrous views. You will also have the opportunity to wander off the beaten track and visit a local rural Sri Lankan community and partake in traditional village life before returning to dinner at the Vil Uyana.

DAY 04

This is an exciting day as its time to pack your bag and leave for the breath taking Hill country. On the way to the beautiful city of Kandy where you will stay you'll have the opportunity to visit the ancient monument Nalanda Gedige. Maybe pick up some of Sri Lanka's famous cinnamon as you explore a Spice Garden in Matale. When you arrive in Kandy you'll check into the intimate and romantic Kandy House. Once again there will be plenty of time to unwind after you've checked into your hotel and before heading out to observe an evening of traditional Kandyan dance and drumming. 

DAY 05

Following breakfast, take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful Peradeniya Botanical Garden's. Following this you will visit the Elephant orphanage at Pinnewala, a short drive from Kandy. Pinnewala is a functioning orphanage and breeding ground. It is renowned throughout the world for being the largest captive habitat of Asian elephants. There will be plenty of time to explore Kandy's shopping quarter and eateries or to laze by the pool before thesun goes down. In the evening, prepare to be deeply moved by the majesty of the sacred Temple of the Tooth which is a UNESCO world Heritage site.

DAY 06

Things may start to get even cooler as it’s time to head deeper into the Hill country. You'll take the train to Nuwara Eliya, Chamil's home town. The journey itself is a wondrous spectacle. Prepare for your jaw to drop as you make the ascent through luscious green tea plantations into the clouds. Often referred to as "Little England" we jokingly refer to Nuwara Eliya as "Little Scotland" for its uncanny resemblance to the Geography of the Highlands and its milder temperatures. Tonight you will staying at the Grand Hotel, a colonial style residence that was formerly the Governor's home, it oozes old fashioned and decadent charm. Cosy up as you head out into the evening mist to visit one of the highly acclaimed tea factories. Here you will be able to see how tea is actually produced, from plant to cup. Of course you'll have the opportunity to sample the refreshing Ceylon tea.

DAY 07

It's time to reach for your sunglasses again! Today you will be leavingto Tissamaharama, taking in the waterfalls at Ella en route. Your home for the next two days will be a luxurious cottage in the Chaaya Wild hotel, situated in the heart of Yala National Park.

DAY 08

It's an early start this morning as you head deep into Yala National Park for a morning safari. Keep those eyes peeled as you will hopefully "spot" a leopard or two. The early rise means that you will have the rest of the day to relax and enjoy your comfortable surroundings.

DAY 09

With a camera bursting at the seams it’s time to head south to the beaches. Your driver will be happy to drop you at the hotel and destination of your choice. You will be left in peace to enjoy the remainder of your holiday. An airport transfer will be arranged to make sure you are safely back at the airport in time for your homeward flight. There is also the option to part company with us at this point if you wish for a less structured end to your holiday.

Alternatively, if you decide to return home at this point, your final evening will be spent in the top class Mount Lavinia hotel, Colombo. A perfect end to your holiday. An airport transfer will be waiting when you are ready to leave.